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Souza GMPR, Abbott SBG. Loss-of-function of chemoreceptor neurons in the retrotrapezoid nucleus: What have we learned from it? Respir Physiol Neurobiol 2024; 322:104217. [PMID: 38237884 PMCID: PMC10922619 DOI: 10.1016/j.resp.2024.104217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2023] [Revised: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 01/13/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
Central respiratory chemoreceptors are cells in the brain that regulate breathing in relation to arterial pH and PCO2. Neurons located at the retrotrapezoid nucleus (RTN) have been hypothesized to be central chemoreceptors and/or to be part of the neural network that drives the central respiratory chemoreflex. The inhibition or ablation of RTN chemoreceptor neurons has offered important insights into the role of these cells on central respiratory chemoreception and the neural control of breathing over almost 60 years since the original identification of acid-sensitive properties of this ventral medullary site. Here, we discuss the current definition of chemoreceptor neurons in the RTN and describe how this definition has evolved over time. We then summarize the results of studies that use loss-of-function approaches to evaluate the effects of disrupting the function of RTN neurons on respiration. These studies offer evidence that RTN neurons are indispensable for the central respiratory chemoreflex in mammals and exert a tonic drive to breathe at rest. Moreover, RTN has an interdependent relationship with oxygen sensing mechanisms for the maintenance of the neural drive to breathe and blood gas homeostasis. Collectively, RTN neurons are a genetically-defined group of putative central respiratory chemoreceptors that generate CO2-dependent drive that supports eupneic breathing and stimulates the hypercapnic ventilatory reflex.
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2
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Burtscher J, Citherlet T, Camacho-Cardenosa A, Camacho-Cardenosa M, Raberin A, Krumm B, Hohenauer E, Egg M, Lichtblau M, Müller J, Rybnikova EA, Gatterer H, Debevec T, Baillieul S, Manferdelli G, Behrendt T, Schega L, Ehrenreich H, Millet GP, Gassmann M, Schwarzer C, Glazachev O, Girard O, Lalande S, Hamlin M, Samaja M, Hüfner K, Burtscher M, Panza G, Mallet RT. Mechanisms underlying the health benefits of intermittent hypoxia conditioning. J Physiol 2023. [PMID: 37860950 DOI: 10.1113/jp285230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Intermittent hypoxia (IH) is commonly associated with pathological conditions, particularly obstructive sleep apnoea. However, IH is also increasingly used to enhance health and performance and is emerging as a potent non-pharmacological intervention against numerous diseases. Whether IH is detrimental or beneficial for health is largely determined by the intensity, duration, number and frequency of the hypoxic exposures and by the specific responses they engender. Adaptive responses to hypoxia protect from future hypoxic or ischaemic insults, improve cellular resilience and functions, and boost mental and physical performance. The cellular and systemic mechanisms producing these benefits are highly complex, and the failure of different components can shift long-term adaptation to maladaptation and the development of pathologies. Rather than discussing in detail the well-characterized individual responses and adaptations to IH, we here aim to summarize and integrate hypoxia-activated mechanisms into a holistic picture of the body's adaptive responses to hypoxia and specifically IH, and demonstrate how these mechanisms might be mobilized for their health benefits while minimizing the risks of hypoxia exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johannes Burtscher
- Institute of Sport Sciences, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Tom Citherlet
- Institute of Sport Sciences, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Alba Camacho-Cardenosa
- Department of Physical Education and Sports, Faculty of Sports Science, Sport and Health University Research Institute (iMUDS), University of Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Marta Camacho-Cardenosa
- Clinical Management Unit of Endocrinology and Nutrition - GC17, Maimónides Biomedical Research Institute of Cordoba (IMIBIC), Reina Sofía University Hospital, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Antoine Raberin
- Institute of Sport Sciences, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Bastien Krumm
- Institute of Sport Sciences, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Erich Hohenauer
- Rehabilitation and Exercise Science Laboratory (RES lab), Department of Business Economics, Health and Social Care, University of Applied Sciences and Arts of Southern Switzerland, Landquart, Switzerland
- International University of Applied Sciences THIM, Landquart, Switzerland
- Department of Neurosciences and Movement Science, University of Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland
| | - Margit Egg
- Institute of Zoology, University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Mona Lichtblau
- Department of Pulmonology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Julian Müller
- Department of Pulmonology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Elena A Rybnikova
- Pavlov Institute of Physiology, Russian Academy of Sciences, St Petersburg, Russia
| | - Hannes Gatterer
- Institute of Mountain Emergency Medicine, Eurac Research, Bolzano, Italy
- Institute for Sports Medicine, Alpine Medicine and Health Tourism (ISAG), UMIT TIROL-Private University for Health Sciences and Health Technology, Hall in Tirol, Austria
| | - Tadej Debevec
- Faculty of Sport, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Department of Automatics, Biocybernetics and Robotics, Jožef Stefan Institute, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Sebastien Baillieul
- Service Universitaire de Pneumologie Physiologie, University of Grenoble Alpes, Inserm, Grenoble, France
| | | | - Tom Behrendt
- Chair Health and Physical Activity, Department of Sport Science, Institute III, Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Lutz Schega
- Chair Health and Physical Activity, Department of Sport Science, Institute III, Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Hannelore Ehrenreich
- Clinical Neuroscience, University Medical Center and Max Planck Institute for Multidisciplinary Sciences, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Grégoire P Millet
- Institute of Sport Sciences, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Max Gassmann
- Institute of Veterinary Physiology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zürich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Zurich Center for Integrative Human Physiology (ZIHP), University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia (UPCH), Lima, Peru
| | - Christoph Schwarzer
- Institute of Pharmacology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Oleg Glazachev
- Department of Normal Physiology, N.V. Sklifosovsky Institute of Clinical Medicine, I. M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Olivier Girard
- School of Human Sciences (Exercise and Sport Science), The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Sophie Lalande
- Department of Kinesiology and Health Education, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Michael Hamlin
- Department of Tourism, Sport and Society, Lincoln University, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Michele Samaja
- Department of Health Science, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Katharina Hüfner
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy, Psychosomatics and Medical Psychology, University Hospital for Psychiatry II, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Martin Burtscher
- Department of Sport Science, University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Gino Panza
- The Department of Health Care Sciences, Program of Occupational Therapy, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
- John D. Dingell VA Medical Center Detroit, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Robert T Mallet
- Department of Physiology & Anatomy, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX, USA
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Abstract
Brain PCO2 is sensed primarily via changes in [H+]. Small pH changes are detected in the medulla oblongata and trigger breathing adjustments that help maintain arterial PCO2 constant. Larger perturbations of brain CO2/H+, possibly also sensed elsewhere in the CNS, elicit arousal, dyspnea, and stress, and cause additional breathing modifications. The retrotrapezoid nucleus (RTN), a rostral medullary cluster of glutamatergic neurons identified by coexpression of Phoxb and Nmb transcripts, is the lynchpin of the central respiratory chemoreflex. RTN regulates breathing frequency, inspiratory amplitude, and active expiration. It is exquisitely responsive to acidosis in vivo and maintains breathing autorhythmicity during quiet waking, slow-wave sleep, and anesthesia. The RTN response to [H+] is partly an intrinsic neuronal property mediated by proton sensors TASK-2 and GPR4 and partly a paracrine effect mediated by astrocytes and the vasculature. The RTN also receives myriad excitatory or inhibitory synaptic inputs including from [H+]-responsive neurons (e.g., serotonergic). RTN is silenced by moderate hypoxia. RTN inactivity (periodic or sustained) contributes to periodic breathing and, likely, to central sleep apnea. RTN development relies on transcription factors Egr2, Phox2b, Lbx1, and Atoh1. PHOX2B mutations cause congenital central hypoventilation syndrome; they impair RTN development and consequently the central respiratory chemoreflex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrice G Guyenet
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, United States.
| | - Douglas A Bayliss
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, United States
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Guyenet PG, Stornetta RL. Rostral ventrolateral medulla, retropontine region and autonomic regulations. Auton Neurosci 2021; 237:102922. [PMID: 34814098 DOI: 10.1016/j.autneu.2021.102922] [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: 03/25/2021] [Revised: 11/08/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The rostral half of the ventrolateral medulla (RVLM) and adjacent ventrolateral retropontine region (henceforth RVLMRP) have been divided into various sectors by neuroscientists interested in breathing or autonomic regulations. The RVLMRP regulates respiration, glycemia, vigilance and inflammation, in addition to blood pressure. It contains interoceptors that respond to acidification, hypoxia and intracranial pressure and its rostral end contains the retrotrapezoid nucleus (RTN) which is the main central respiratory chemoreceptor. Acid detection by the RTN is an intrinsic property of the principal neurons that is enhanced by paracrine influences from surrounding astrocytes and CO2-dependent vascular constriction. RTN mediates the hypercapnic ventilatory response via complex projections to the respiratory pattern generator (CPG). The RVLM contributes to autonomic response patterns via differential recruitment of several subtypes of adrenergic (C1) and non-adrenergic neurons that directly innervate sympathetic and parasympathetic preganglionic neurons. The RVLM also innervates many brainstem and hypothalamic nuclei that contribute, albeit less directly, to autonomic responses. All lower brainstem noradrenergic clusters including the locus coeruleus are among these targets. Sympathetic tone to the circulatory system is regulated by subsets of presympathetic RVLM neurons whose activity is continuously restrained by the baroreceptors and modulated by the respiratory CPG. The inhibitory input from baroreceptors and the excitatory input from the respiratory CPG originate from neurons located in or close to the rhythm generating region of the respiratory CPG (preBötzinger complex).
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrice G Guyenet
- University of Virginia School of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology, 1340 Jefferson Park Avenue, Charlottesville, VA 22908-0735, USA.
| | - Ruth L Stornetta
- University of Virginia School of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology, 1340 Jefferson Park Avenue, Charlottesville, VA 22908-0735, USA.
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Guyenet PG, Stornetta RL, Souza GMPR, Abbott SBG, Shi Y, Bayliss DA. The Retrotrapezoid Nucleus: Central Chemoreceptor and Regulator of Breathing Automaticity. Trends Neurosci 2019; 42:807-824. [PMID: 31635852 DOI: 10.1016/j.tins.2019.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 122] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2019] [Revised: 08/28/2019] [Accepted: 09/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The ventral surface of the rostral medulla oblongata has been suspected since the 1960s to harbor central respiratory chemoreceptors [i.e., acid-activated neurons that regulate breathing to maintain a constant arterial PCO2 (PaCO2)]. The key neurons, a.k.a. the retrotrapezoid nucleus (RTN), have now been identified. In this review we describe their transcriptome, developmental lineage, and anatomical projections. We also review their contribution to CO2 homeostasis and to the regulation of breathing automaticity during sleep and wake. Finally, we discuss several mechanisms that contribute to the activation of RTN neurons by CO2in vivo: cell-autonomous effects of protons; paracrine effects of pH mediated by surrounding astrocytes and blood vessels; and excitatory inputs from other CO2-responsive CNS neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrice G Guyenet
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA.
| | - Ruth L Stornetta
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA
| | - George M P R Souza
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA
| | - Stephen B G Abbott
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA
| | - Yingtang Shi
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA
| | - Douglas A Bayliss
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA
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Adler D, Janssens JP. The Pathophysiology of Respiratory Failure: Control of Breathing, Respiratory Load, and Muscle Capacity. Respiration 2018; 97:93-104. [PMID: 30423557 DOI: 10.1159/000494063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2018] [Accepted: 09/24/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The purpose of this review is to provide an overview on how interactions between control of breathing, respiratory load, and muscle function may lead to respiratory failure. The mechanisms involved vary according to the underlying pathology, but respiratory failure is most often the result of an imbalance between the muscular pump and the mechanical load placed upon it. Changes in respiratory drive and response to CO2 seem to be important contributors to the pathophysiology of respiratory failure. Inspiratory muscle dysfunction is also frequent but is not a mandatory prerequisite to respiratory failure since increased load may also be sufficient to precipitate it. It is crucial to recognize these interactions to be able to timeously establish patients on mechanical ventilation and adapt the ventilator settings to their respiratory system physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Adler
- Division of Lung Diseases, University Hospitals of Geneva and Geneva Medical School, Geneva, Switzerland,
| | - Jean-Paul Janssens
- Division of Lung Diseases, University Hospitals of Geneva and Geneva Medical School, Geneva, Switzerland
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7
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Wang X, Guan R, Zhao X, Zhu D, Song N, Shen L. TASK1 and TASK3 Are Coexpressed With ASIC1 in the Ventrolateral Medulla and Contribute to Central Chemoreception in Rats. Front Cell Neurosci 2018; 12:285. [PMID: 30210304 PMCID: PMC6123564 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2018.00285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2017] [Accepted: 08/10/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The ventrolateral medulla (VLM), including the lateral paragigantocellular nucleus (LPGi) and rostral VLM (RVLM), is commonly considered to be a chemosensitive region. However, the specific mechanism of chemoreception in the VLM remains elusive. Acid-sensing ion channels (ASICs), a family of voltage-independent proton-gated cation channels, can be activated by an external pH decrease to cause Na+ entry and induce neuronal excitability. TWIK-related acid-sensitive potassium channels (TASKs) are members of another group of pH-sensitive channels; in contrast to AISICs, they can be stimulated by pH increases and are inhibited by pH decreases in the physiological range. Our previous study demonstrated that ASICs take part in chemoreception. The aims of this study are to explore whether TASKs participate in the acid sensitivity of neurons in the VLM, thereby cooperating with ASICs. Our research demonstrated that TASKs, including TASK1 and TASK3, are colocalized with ASIC1 in VLM neurons. Blocking TASKs by microinjection of the non-selective TASK antagonist bupivacaine (BUP), specific TASK1 antagonist anandamide (AEA) or specific TASK3 antagonist ruthenium red (RR) into the VLM increased the integrated phrenic nerve discharge (iPND), shortened the inspiratory time (Ti) and enhanced the respiratory drive (iPND/Ti). In addition, microinjection of artificial cerebrospinal fluid (ACSF) at a pH of 7.0 or 6.5 prolonged Ti, increased iPND and enhanced respiratory drive, which were inhibited by the ASIC antagonist amiloride (AMI). By contrast, microinjection of alkaline ACSF decreased iPND and respiratory drive, which were inhibited by AEA. Taken together, our data suggest that TASK1 and TASK3 are coexpressed with ASIC1 in the VLM. Moreover, TASK1 and TASK3 contribute to the central regulation of breathing by coordinating with each other to perceive local pH changes; these results indicate a novel chemosensitive mechanism of the VLM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xia Wang
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ruijuan Guan
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaomei Zhao
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Danian Zhu
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Nana Song
- Division of Nephrology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Linlin Shen
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Medical Imaging Computing and Computer-Assisted Intervention, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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8
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Neurodevelopmental Effects of Serotonin on the Brainstem Respiratory Network. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2017; 1015:193-216. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-62817-2_11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
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9
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Acid-sensing ion channels are expressed in the ventrolateral medulla and contribute to central chemoreception. Sci Rep 2016; 6:38777. [PMID: 27934921 PMCID: PMC5146928 DOI: 10.1038/srep38777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2016] [Accepted: 11/14/2016] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The role of acid-sensing ion channels (ASICs) in the ventrolateral medulla (VLM) remains uncertain. Here, we found that ASIC1a and ASIC2 are widely expressed in rat medulla, and the expression level is higher at neonatal stage as compared to adult stage. The two ASIC subunits co-localized in medualla neurons. Furthermore, pH reduction triggered typical ASIC-type currents in the medulla, including the VLM. These currents showed a pH50 value of 6.6 and were blocked by amiloride. Based on their sensitivity to psalmotoxin 1 (PcTx1) and zinc, homomeric ASIC1a and heteromeric ASIC1a/2 channels were likely responsible for acid-mediated currents in the mouse medulla. ASIC currents triggered by pH 5 disappeared in the VLM neurons from ASIC1−/−, but not ASIC2−/− mice. Activation of ASICs in the medulla also triggered neuronal excitation. Moreover, microinjection of artificial cerebrospinal fluid at a pH of 6.5 into the VLM increased integrated phrenic nerve discharge, inspiratory time and respiratory drive in rats. Both amiloride and PcTx1 inhibited the acid-induced stimulating effect on respiration. Collectively, our data suggest that ASICs are highly expressed in the medulla including the VLM, and activation of ASICs in the VLM contributes to central chemoreception.
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10
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Moreira TS, Takakura AC, Czeisler C, Otero JJ. Respiratory and autonomic dysfunction in congenital central hypoventilation syndrome. J Neurophysiol 2016; 116:742-52. [PMID: 27226447 PMCID: PMC6208311 DOI: 10.1152/jn.00026.2016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2016] [Accepted: 05/25/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The developmental lineage of the PHOX2B-expressing neurons in the retrotrapezoid nucleus (RTN) has been extensively studied. These cells are thought to function as central respiratory chemoreceptors, i.e., the mechanism by which brain Pco2 regulates breathing. The molecular and cellular basis of central respiratory chemoreception is based on the detection of CO2 via intrinsic proton receptors (TASK-2, GPR4) as well as synaptic input from peripheral chemoreceptors and other brain regions. Murine models of congenital central hypoventilation syndrome designed with PHOX2B mutations have suggested RTN neuron agenesis. In this review, we examine, through human and experimental animal models, how a restricted number of neurons that express the transcription factor PHOX2B play a crucial role in the control of breathing and autonomic regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thiago S Moreira
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil;
| | - Ana C Takakura
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil; and
| | - Catherine Czeisler
- The Ohio State University, College of Medicine, Department of Pathology, Division of Neuropathology, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Jose J Otero
- The Ohio State University, College of Medicine, Department of Pathology, Division of Neuropathology, Columbus, Ohio
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11
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Guyenet PG, Bayliss DA, Stornetta RL, Ludwig MG, Kumar NN, Shi Y, Burke PGR, Kanbar R, Basting TM, Holloway BB, Wenker IC. Proton detection and breathing regulation by the retrotrapezoid nucleus. J Physiol 2016; 594:1529-51. [PMID: 26748771 PMCID: PMC4799966 DOI: 10.1113/jp271480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2015] [Accepted: 01/04/2016] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
We discuss recent evidence which suggests that the principal central respiratory chemoreceptors are located within the retrotrapezoid nucleus (RTN) and that RTN neurons are directly sensitive to [H(+) ]. RTN neurons are glutamatergic. In vitro, their activation by [H(+) ] requires expression of a proton-activated G protein-coupled receptor (GPR4) and a proton-modulated potassium channel (TASK-2) whose transcripts are undetectable in astrocytes and the rest of the lower brainstem respiratory network. The pH response of RTN neurons is modulated by surrounding astrocytes but genetic deletion of RTN neurons or deletion of both GPR4 and TASK-2 virtually eliminates the central respiratory chemoreflex. Thus, although this reflex is regulated by innumerable brain pathways, it seems to operate predominantly by modulating the discharge rate of RTN neurons, and the activation of RTN neurons by hypercapnia may ultimately derive from their intrinsic pH sensitivity. RTN neurons increase lung ventilation by stimulating multiple aspects of breathing simultaneously. They stimulate breathing about equally during quiet wake and non-rapid eye movement (REM) sleep, and to a lesser degree during REM sleep. The activity of RTN neurons is regulated by inhibitory feedback and by excitatory inputs, notably from the carotid bodies. The latter input operates during normo- or hypercapnia but fails to activate RTN neurons under hypocapnic conditions. RTN inhibition probably limits the degree of hyperventilation produced by hypocapnic hypoxia. RTN neurons are also activated by inputs from serotonergic neurons and hypothalamic neurons. The absence of RTN neurons probably underlies the sleep apnoea and lack of chemoreflex that characterize congenital central hypoventilation syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrice G Guyenet
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, 22908, USA
| | - Douglas A Bayliss
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, 22908, USA
| | - Ruth L Stornetta
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, 22908, USA
| | | | - Natasha N Kumar
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, 22908, USA
| | - Yingtang Shi
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, 22908, USA
| | - Peter G R Burke
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, 22908, USA
| | - Roy Kanbar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Lebanese American University, Beyrouth, Lebanon
| | - Tyler M Basting
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, 22908, USA
| | - Benjamin B Holloway
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, 22908, USA
| | - Ian C Wenker
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, 22908, USA
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12
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Garg SK, Lioy DT, Knopp SJ, Bissonnette JM. Conditional depletion of methyl-CpG-binding protein 2 in astrocytes depresses the hypercapnic ventilatory response in mice. J Appl Physiol (1985) 2015. [DOI: 10.1152/japplphysiol.00411.2015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Mice that are deficient in the transcription factor methyl-CpG-binding protein 2 (MeCP2) have a depressed hypercapnic ventilatory response (HCVR). The expression of MeCP2 can be selectively removed from astrocytes or neurons, thus offering a tool to dissect the role of this transcription factor in astrocytes from that in neurons. Studies were carried out in the progeny of mice that were a cross between those harboring a tamoxifen (TAM)-inducible Cre recombinase transgene driven by the human astrocytic glial fibrillary acidic protein (hGFAP) promoter, or Cre recombinase under control of the synapsin promoter, with mice containing a Cre-excisable exon III in the Mecp2 gene. The TAM-conditional excision of the Mecp2 exon allowed the respiratory CO2 response to be studied in the same animals before and after selective depletion of MeCP2 in astrocytes. Immunohistochemistry showed that following TAM treatment only ∼20% of GFAP-labeled cells in the retrotrapazoid nucleus and in the raphé magnus were positive for MeCP2. The slope of the relative increase in minute ventilation as a function of 1, 3, and 5% inspired CO2 was depressed in mice with depleted astrocyte MeCP2 compared with wild-type littermates. In contrast, selective depletion of MeCP2 in neurons did not significantly affect slope. While neurons which constitute the respiratory network ultimately determine the ventilatory response to CO2, this study demonstrates that loss of MeCP2 in astrocytes alone is sufficient to result in a dramatic attenuation of the HCVR. We propose that the glial contribution to HCVR is under the control of the MeCP2 gene.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - John M. Bissonnette
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, and
- Department of Cell, Developmental and Cancer Biology, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon
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13
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Lei F, Yan X, Zhao F, Zhang S, Zhang Q, Zhou H, Zheng Y. Impairment of Central Chemoreception in Neonatal Rats Induced by Maternal Cigarette Smoke Exposure during Pregnancy. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0137362. [PMID: 26333001 PMCID: PMC4557912 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0137362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2015] [Accepted: 08/15/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
It has been postulated that prenatal cigarette smoke exposure (CSE) increases the risk for sudden infant death syndrome. The victims of infant death syndrome suffer from respiratory abnormalities, such as central apnea, diminished chemoreflex and alteration in respiratory pattern during sleep. However, no experimental evidence on CSE model exists to confirm whether prenatal CSE gives rise to reduction of neonatal central chemoreception in in vitro preparations in absence of peripheral sensory feedback. The aim of the present study was to test the hypothesis that maternal CSE during pregnancy depresses central chemoreception of the neonatal rats. The pregnant rats were divided into two groups, control (n = 8) and CSE (n = 8). Experiments were performed on neonatal (0-3days) rat pups. Fictive respiratory activity was monitored by recording the rhythmic discharge from the hypoglossal rootlets of the medullary slices obtained from the neonatal rats. The burst frequency (BF) and integrated amplitude (IA) of the discharge were analyzed. Their responses to acidified artificial cerebrospinal fluid (aCSF) were tested to indicate the change of the central chemosensitivity. Under condition of perfusing with standard aCSF (pH 7.4), no significant difference was detected between the two groups in either BF or IA (P>0.05). Under condition of perfusing with acidified aCSF (pH 7.0), BF was increased and IA was decreased in both groups (P<0.01). However, their change rates in the CSE group were obviously smaller than that in the control group, 66.98 ± 10.11% vs. 143.75 ± 15.41% for BF and -22.38 ± 2.51% vs. -44.90 ± 3.92% for IA (P<0.01). In conclusion, these observations, in a prenatal CSE model, provide important evidence that maternal smoking during pregnancy exerts adverse effects on central chemoreception of neonates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fang Lei
- Department of Physiology, West China School of Preclinical and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Xiang Yan
- Department of Physiology, West China School of Preclinical and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Fusheng Zhao
- Department of Physiology, West China School of Preclinical and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Senfeng Zhang
- Department of Physiology, West China School of Preclinical and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Qilan Zhang
- Department of Physiology, West China School of Preclinical and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Hua Zhou
- Department of Physiology, West China School of Preclinical and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Yu Zheng
- Department of Physiology, West China School of Preclinical and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, PR China
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14
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Ikeda K, Takahashi M, Sato S, Igarashi H, Ishizuka T, Yawo H, Arata S, Southard-Smith EM, Kawakami K, Onimaru H. A Phox2b BAC Transgenic Rat Line Useful for Understanding Respiratory Rhythm Generator Neural Circuitry. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0132475. [PMID: 26147470 PMCID: PMC4492506 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0132475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2015] [Accepted: 06/15/2015] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The key role of the respiratory neural center is respiratory rhythm generation to maintain homeostasis through the control of arterial blood pCO2/pH and pO2 levels. The neuronal network responsible for respiratory rhythm generation in neonatal rat resides in the ventral side of the medulla and is composed of two groups; the parafacial respiratory group (pFRG) and the pre-Bötzinger complex group (preBötC). The pFRG partially overlaps in the retrotrapezoid nucleus (RTN), which was originally identified in adult cats and rats. Part of the pre-inspiratory (Pre-I) neurons in the RTN/pFRG serves as central chemoreceptor neurons and the CO2 sensitive Pre-I neurons express homeobox gene Phox2b. Phox2b encodes a transcription factor and is essential for the development of the sensory-motor visceral circuits. Mutations in human PHOX2B cause congenital hypoventilation syndrome, which is characterized by blunted ventilatory response to hypercapnia. Here we describe the generation of a novel transgenic (Tg) rat harboring fluorescently labeled Pre-I neurons in the RTN/pFRG. In addition, the Tg rat showed fluorescent signals in autonomic enteric neurons and carotid bodies. Because the Tg rat expresses inducible Cre recombinase in PHOX2B-positive cells during development, it is a potentially powerful tool for dissecting the entire picture of the respiratory neural network during development and for identifying the CO2/O2 sensor molecules in the adult central and peripheral nervous systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keiko Ikeda
- Division of Biology, Hyogo College of Medicine, Nishinomiya, Hyogo, Japan
- Division of Biology, Center for Molecular Medicine, Jichi Medical University, Shimotsuke, Tochigi, Japan
- * E-mail:
| | - Masanori Takahashi
- Division of Biology, Center for Molecular Medicine, Jichi Medical University, Shimotsuke, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Shigeru Sato
- Division of Biology, Center for Molecular Medicine, Jichi Medical University, Shimotsuke, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Igarashi
- Department of Physiology, and Pharmacology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Miyagi, Japan
| | - Toru Ishizuka
- Department of Developmental Biology and Neuroscience, Tohoku University Graduate School of Life Sciences and JST/CREST, Sendai, Miyagi, Japan
| | - Hiromu Yawo
- Department of Physiology, and Pharmacology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Miyagi, Japan
- Department of Developmental Biology and Neuroscience, Tohoku University Graduate School of Life Sciences and JST/CREST, Sendai, Miyagi, Japan
| | - Satoru Arata
- Center for Biotechnology, Showa University, Shinagawa, Tokyo, Japan
| | - E. Michelle Southard-Smith
- Division of Genetic Medicine, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee, United States of America
| | - Kiyoshi Kawakami
- Division of Biology, Center for Molecular Medicine, Jichi Medical University, Shimotsuke, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Onimaru
- Department of Physiology, Showa University School of Medicine, Shinagawa, Tokyo, Japan
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15
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Abstract
Optogenetic techniques have revealed that retrotrapezoid neurons are essential for sensitivity to carbon dioxide.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Carmen Birchmeier
- Max-Delbrück-Centrum für Molekulare Medizin in der Helmholtz-Gemeinschaft, Berlin, Germany
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16
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Abstract
In conscious mammals, hypoxia or hypercapnia stimulates breathing while theoretically exerting opposite effects on central respiratory chemoreceptors (CRCs). We tested this theory by examining how hypoxia and hypercapnia change the activity of the retrotrapezoid nucleus (RTN), a putative CRC and chemoreflex integrator. Archaerhodopsin-(Arch)-transduced RTN neurons were reversibly silenced by light in anesthetized rats. We bilaterally transduced RTN and nearby C1 neurons with Arch (PRSx8-ArchT-EYFP-LVV) and measured the cardiorespiratory consequences of Arch activation (10 s) in conscious rats during normoxia, hypoxia, or hyperoxia. RTN photoinhibition reduced breathing equally during non-REM sleep and quiet wake. Compared with normoxia, the breathing frequency reduction (Δf(R)) was larger in hyperoxia (65% FiO2), smaller in 15% FiO2, and absent in 12% FiO2. Tidal volume changes (ΔV(T)) followed the same trend. The effect of hypoxia on Δf(R) was not arousal-dependent but was reversed by reacidifying the blood (acetazolamide; 3% FiCO2). Δf(R) was highly correlated with arterial pH up to arterial pH (pHa) 7.5 with no frequency inhibition occurring above pHa 7.53. Blood pressure was minimally reduced suggesting that C1 neurons were very modestly inhibited. In conclusion, RTN neurons regulate eupneic breathing about equally during both sleep and wake. RTN neurons are the first putative CRCs demonstrably silenced by hypocapnic hypoxia in conscious mammals. RTN neurons are silent above pHa 7.5 and increasingly active below this value. During hyperoxia, RTN activation maintains breathing despite the inactivity of the carotid bodies. Finally, during hypocapnic hypoxia, carotid body stimulation increases breathing frequency via pathways that bypass RTN.
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17
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Abstract
Lung ventilation fluctuates widely with behavior but arterial PCO2 remains stable. Under normal conditions, the chemoreflexes contribute to PaCO2 stability by producing small corrective cardiorespiratory adjustments mediated by lower brainstem circuits. Carotid body (CB) information reaches the respiratory pattern generator (RPG) via nucleus solitarius (NTS) glutamatergic neurons which also target rostral ventrolateral medulla (RVLM) presympathetic neurons thereby raising sympathetic nerve activity (SNA). Chemoreceptors also regulate presympathetic neurons and cardiovagal preganglionic neurons indirectly via inputs from the RPG. Secondary effects of chemoreceptors on the autonomic outflows result from changes in lung stretch afferent and baroreceptor activity. Central respiratory chemosensitivity is caused by direct effects of acid on neurons and indirect effects of CO2 via astrocytes. Central respiratory chemoreceptors are not definitively identified but the retrotrapezoid nucleus (RTN) is a particularly strong candidate. The absence of RTN likely causes severe central apneas in congenital central hypoventilation syndrome. Like other stressors, intense chemosensory stimuli produce arousal and activate circuits that are wake- or attention-promoting. Such pathways (e.g., locus coeruleus, raphe, and orexin system) modulate the chemoreflexes in a state-dependent manner and their activation by strong chemosensory stimuli intensifies these reflexes. In essential hypertension, obstructive sleep apnea and congestive heart failure, chronically elevated CB afferent activity contributes to raising SNA but breathing is unchanged or becomes periodic (severe CHF). Extreme CNS hypoxia produces a stereotyped cardiorespiratory response (gasping, increased SNA). The effects of these various pathologies on brainstem cardiorespiratory networks are discussed, special consideration being given to the interactions between central and peripheral chemoreflexes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrice G Guyenet
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia
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18
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Gallego J. Genetic diseases: congenital central hypoventilation, Rett, and Prader-Willi syndromes. Compr Physiol 2013; 2:2255-79. [PMID: 23723037 DOI: 10.1002/cphy.c100037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
The present review summarizes current knowledge on three rare genetic disorders of respiratory control, congenital central hypoventilation syndrome (CCHS), Rett syndrome (RTT), and Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS). CCHS is characterized by lack of ventilatory chemosensitivity caused by PHOX2B gene abnormalities consisting mainly of alanine expansions. RTT is associated with episodes of tachypneic and irregular breathing intermixed with breathholds and apneas and is caused by mutations in the X-linked MECP2 gene encoding methyl-CpG-binding protein. PWS manifests as sleep-disordered breathing with apneas and episodes of hypoventilation and is caused by the loss of a group of paternally inherited genes on chromosome 15. CCHS is the most specific disorder of respiratory control, whereas the breathing disorders in RTT and PWS are components of a more general developmental disorder. The main clinical features of these three disorders are reviewed with special emphasis on the associated brain abnormalities. In all three syndromes, disease-causing genetic defects have been identified, allowing the development of genetically engineered mouse models. New directions for future therapies based on these models or, in some cases, on clinical experience are delineated. Studies of CCHS, RTT, and PWS extend our knowledge of the molecular and cellular aspects of respiratory rhythm generation and suggest possible pharmacological approaches to respiratory control disorders. This knowledge is relevant for the clinical management of many respiratory disorders that are far more prevalent than the rare diseases discussed here.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorge Gallego
- Inserm U676 and University of Paris Diderot, Paris, France.
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19
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Guyenet PG, Abbott SBG. Chemoreception and asphyxia-induced arousal. Respir Physiol Neurobiol 2013; 188:333-43. [PMID: 23608705 PMCID: PMC3749262 DOI: 10.1016/j.resp.2013.04.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2013] [Revised: 04/02/2013] [Accepted: 04/06/2013] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Arousal protects against the adverse and potentially fatal effects of asphyxia during sleep. Asphyxia stimulates the carotid bodies and central chemoreceptors but the sequence of events leading to arousal is uncertain. In this review, the theoretical mechanisms leading to arousal from sleep are briefly summarized and the issue of whether central respiratory chemoreceptors (CRCs) or other types of CO2-responsive CNS neurons contribute to asphyxia-induced arousal is discussed. We focus on the role of the retrotrapezoid nucleus, the raphe and the locus coeruleus and emphasize the anatomical and neurophysiological evidence which suggests that these putative central chemoreceptors could contribute to arousal independently of their effects on breathing. Finally, we describe recent attempts to test the contribution of specific brainstem pathways to asphyxia-induced arousal using optogenetic and other tools and the possible contribution of a group of hypoxia-sensitive brainstem neurons (the C1 cells) to breathing and arousal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrice G Guyenet
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22908, United States.
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20
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Ramanantsoa N, Gallego J. Congenital central hypoventilation syndrome. Respir Physiol Neurobiol 2013; 189:272-9. [PMID: 23692929 DOI: 10.1016/j.resp.2013.05.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2013] [Revised: 05/03/2013] [Accepted: 05/14/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Congenital central hypoventilation syndrome (CCHS) is characterized by hypoventilation during sleep and impaired ventilatory responses to hypercapnia and hypoxemia. Most cases are sporadic and caused by de novo PHOX2B gene mutations, which are usually polyalanine repeat expansions. Physiological and neuroanatomical studies of genetically engineered mice and analyses of cellular responses to mutated Phox2b have shed light on the pathophysiological mechanisms of CCHS. Findings in Phox2b(27Ala/+) knock-in mice consisted of unstable breathing with apneas, absence of the ventilatory response to hypercapnia, death within a few hours after birth, and absence of the retrotrapezoid nucleus (RTN). Conditional mouse mutants in which Phox2b(27Ala) was targeted to the RTN also lacked the ventilatory response to hypercapnia at birth but survived to adulthood and developed a partial hypercapnia response. The therapeutic effects of desogestrel are being evaluated in clinical trials, and recent analyses of cellular responses to polyAla Phox2b aggregates have suggested new pharmacological approaches designed to counteract the toxic effects of mutated Phox2b.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Ramanantsoa
- INSERM, U676, Hôpital Robert Debré, 75019 Paris, France; Université Paris Diderot, Paris, France
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21
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Egr2-neurons control the adult respiratory response to hypercapnia. Brain Res 2012; 1511:115-25. [PMID: 23261662 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2012.12.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2012] [Revised: 11/22/2012] [Accepted: 12/12/2012] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
`The early growth response 2 transcription factor, Egr2, establishes a population of brainstem neurons essential for normal breathing at birth. Egr2-null mice die perinatally of respiratory insufficiency characterized by subnormal respiratory rate and severe apneas. Here we bypass this lethality using a noninvasive pharmacogenetic approach to inducibly perturb neuron activity postnatally, and ask if Egr2-neurons control respiration in adult mice. We found that the normal ventilatory increase in response to elevated tissue CO₂ was impaired, blunted by 63.1 ± 8.7% after neuron perturbation due to deficits in both respiratory amplitude and frequency. By contrast, room-air breathing was unaffected, suggesting that the drive for baseline breathing may not require those Egr2-neurons manipulated here. Of the multiple brainstem sites proposed to affect ventilation in response to hypercapnia, only the retrotrapezoid nucleus, a portion of the serotonergic raphé, and a portion of the A5 nucleus have a history of Egr2 expression. We recently showed that acute inhibition of serotonergic neurons en masse blunts the CO₂ chemoreflex in adults, causing a difference in hypercapnic response of ∼50% after neuron perturbation through effects on respiratory amplitude only. The suppressed respiratory frequency upon perturbation of Egr2-neurons thus may stem from non-serotonergic neurons within the Egr2 domain. Perturbation of Egr2-neurons did not affect body temperature, even on exposure to ambient 4°C. These findings support a model in which Egr2-neurons are a critical component of the respiratory chemoreflex into adulthood. Methodologically, these results highlight how pharmacogenetic approaches allow neuron function to be queried in unanesthetized adult animals, reaching beyond the roadblocks of developmental lethality and compensation as well as the anatomical disturbances associated with invasive methods. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled Optogenetics (7th BRES).
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22
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Bochorishvili G, Stornetta RL, Coates MB, Guyenet PG. Pre-Bötzinger complex receives glutamatergic innervation from galaninergic and other retrotrapezoid nucleus neurons. J Comp Neurol 2012; 520:1047-61. [PMID: 21935944 PMCID: PMC3925347 DOI: 10.1002/cne.22769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
The retrotrapezoid nucleus (RTN) contains CO(2) -responsive neurons that regulate breathing frequency and amplitude. These neurons (RTN-Phox2b neurons) contain the transcription factor Phox2b, vesicular glutamate transporter 2 (VGLUT2) mRNA, and a subset contains preprogalanin mRNA. We wished to determine whether the terminals of RTN-Phox2b neurons contain galanin and VGLUT2 proteins, to identify the specific projections of the galaninergic subset, to test whether RTN-Phox2b neurons contact neurons in the pre-Bötzinger complex, and to identify the ultrastructure of these synapses. The axonal projections of RTN-Phox2b neurons were traced by using biotinylated dextran amine (BDA), and many BDA-ir boutons were found to contain galanin immunoreactivity. RTN galaninergic neurons had ipsilateral projections that were identical with those of this nucleus at large: the ventral respiratory column, the caudolateral nucleus of the solitary tract, and the pontine Kölliker-Fuse, intertrigeminal region, and lateral parabrachial nucleus. For ultrastructural studies, RTN-Phox2b neurons (galaninergic and others) were transfected with a lentiviral vector that expresses mCherry almost exclusively in Phox2b-ir neurons. After spinal cord injections of a catecholamine neuron-selective toxin, there was a depletion of C1 neurons in the RTN area; thus it was determined that the mCherry-positive terminals located in the pre-Bötzinger complex originated almost exclusively from the RTN-Phox2b (non-C1) neurons. These terminals were generally VGLUT2-immunoreactive and formed numerous close appositions with neurokinin-1 receptor-ir pre-Bötzinger complex neurons. Their boutons (n = 48) formed asymmetric synapses filled with small clear vesicles. In summary, RTN-Phox2b neurons, including the galaninergic subset, selectively innervate the respiratory pattern generator plus a portion of the dorsolateral pons. RTN-Phox2b neurons establish classic excitatory glutamatergic synapses with pre-Bötzinger complex neurons presumed to generate the respiratory rhythm.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ruth L. Stornetta
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia 22908
| | - Melissa B. Coates
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia 22908
| | - Patrice G. Guyenet
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia 22908
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23
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Guyenet PG, Stornetta RL, Abbott SBG, Depuy SD, Kanbar R. The retrotrapezoid nucleus and breathing. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2012; 758:115-22. [PMID: 23080151 DOI: 10.1007/978-94-007-4584-1_16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
The retrotrapezoid nucleus (RTN) is located in the rostral medulla oblongata close to the ventral surface and consists of a bilateral cluster of glutamatergic neurons that are non-aminergic and express homeodomain transcription factor Phox2b throughout life. These neurons respond vigorously to increases in local pCO(2) via cell-autonomous and paracrine (glial) mechanisms and receive additional chemosensory information from the carotid bodies. RTN neurons exclusively innervate the regions of the brainstem that contain the respiratory pattern generator (RPG). Lesion or inhibition of RTN neurons largely attenuates the respiratory chemoreflex of adult rats whereas their activation increases respiratory rate, inspiratory amplitude and active expiration. Phox2b mutations that cause congenital central hypoventilation syndrome in humans prevent the development of RTN neurons in mice. Selective deletion of the RTN Phox2b-VGLUT2 neurons by genetic means in mice eliminates the respiratory chemoreflex in neonates.In short, RTN Phox2b-VGLUT2 neurons are a major nodal point of the CNS network that regulates pCO(2) via breathing and these cells are probable central chemoreceptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrice G Guyenet
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22908-0735, USA.
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24
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Abbott SBG, Stornetta RL, Coates MB, Guyenet PG. Phox2b-expressing neurons of the parafacial region regulate breathing rate, inspiration, and expiration in conscious rats. J Neurosci 2011; 31:16410-22. [PMID: 22072691 PMCID: PMC3236529 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.3280-11.2011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 104] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2011] [Revised: 09/02/2011] [Accepted: 09/21/2011] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
The retrotrapezoid nucleus contains Phox2b-expressing glutamatergic neurons (RTN-Phox2b neurons) that regulate breathing in a CO₂-dependent manner. Here we use channelrhodopsin-based optogenetics to explore how these neurons control breathing in conscious and anesthetized adult rats. Respiratory entrainment (pacing) of breathing frequency (fR) was produced over 57% (anesthetized) and 28% (conscious) of the natural frequency range by burst activation of RTN-Phox2b neurons (3-8 × 0.5-20 ms pulses at 20 Hz). In conscious rats, pacing under normocapnic conditions increased tidal volume (V(T)) and each inspiration was preceded by active expiration, denoting abdominal muscle contraction. During long-term pacing V(T) returned to prestimulation levels, suggesting that central chemoreceptors such as RTN-Phox2b neurons regulate V(T) partly independently of their effect on fR. Randomly applied light trains reset the respiratory rhythm and shortened the expiratory phase when the stimulus coincided with late-inspiration or early-expiration. Importantly, continuous (20 Hz) photostimulation of the RTN-Phox2b neurons and a saturating CO₂ concentration produced similar effects on breathing that were much larger than those elicited by phasic RTN stimulation. In sum, consistent with their anatomical projections, RTN-Phox2b neurons regulate lung ventilation by controlling breathing frequency, inspiration, and active expiration. Adult RTN-Phox2b neurons can entrain the respiratory rhythm if their discharge is artificially synchronized, but continuous activation of these neurons is much more effective at increasing lung ventilation. These results suggest that RTN-Phox2b neurons are no longer rhythmogenic in adulthood and that their average discharge rate may be far more important than their discharge pattern in driving lung ventilation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen B. G. Abbott
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia 22908
| | - Ruth L. Stornetta
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia 22908
| | - Melissa B. Coates
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia 22908
| | - Patrice G. Guyenet
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia 22908
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25
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Huckstepp RTR, Dale N. Redefining the components of central CO2 chemosensitivity--towards a better understanding of mechanism. J Physiol 2011; 589:5561-79. [PMID: 22005672 PMCID: PMC3249032 DOI: 10.1113/jphysiol.2011.214759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract The field of CO2 chemosensitivity has developed considerably in recent years. There has been a mounting number of competing nuclei proposed as chemosensitive along with an ever increasing list of potential chemosensory transducing molecules. Is it really possible that all of these areas and candidate molecules are involved in the detection of chemosensory stimuli? How do we discriminate rigorously between molecules that are chemosensory transducers at the head of a physiological reflexversusthose that just happen to display sensitivity to a chemosensory stimulus? Equally, how do we differentiate between nuclei that have a primary chemosensory function, versusthose that are relays in the pathway? We have approached these questions by proposing rigorous definitions for the different components of the chemosensory reflex, going from the salient molecules and ions, through the components of transduction to the identity of chemosensitive cells and chemosensitive nuclei. Our definitions include practical and rigorous experimental tests that can be used to establish the identity of these components. We begin by describing the need for central CO2 chemosensitivity and the problems that the field has faced. By comparing chemosensory mechanisms to those in the visual system we suggest stricter definitions for the components of the chemosensory pathway. We then, considering these definitions, re-evaluate current knowledge of chemosensory transduction, and propose the ‘multiple salient signal hypothesis’ as a framework for understanding the multiplicity of transduction mechanisms and brain areas seemingly involved in chemosensitivity.
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26
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Abstract
By definition central respiratory chemoreceptors (CRCs) are cells that are sensitive to changes in brain PCO(2) or pH and contribute to the stimulation of breathing elicited by hypercapnia or metabolic acidosis. CO(2) most likely works by lowering pH. The pertinent proton receptors have not been identified and may be ion channels. CRCs are probably neurons but may also include acid-sensitive glia and vascular cells that communicate with neurons via paracrine mechanisms. Retrotrapezoid nucleus (RTN) neurons are the most completely characterized CRCs. Their high sensitivity to CO(2) in vivo presumably relies on their intrinsic acid sensitivity, excitatory inputs from the carotid bodies and brain regions such as raphe and hypothalamus, and facilitating influences from neighboring astrocytes. RTN neurons are necessary for the respiratory network to respond to CO(2) during the perinatal period and under anesthesia. In conscious adults, RTN neurons contribute to an unknown degree to the pH-dependent regulation of breathing rate, inspiratory, and expiratory activity. The abnormal prenatal development of RTN neurons probably contributes to the congenital central hypoventilation syndrome. Other CRCs presumably exist, but the supportive evidence is less complete. The proposed locations of these CRCs are the medullary raphe, the nucleus tractus solitarius, the ventrolateral medulla, the fastigial nucleus, and the hypothalamus. Several wake-promoting systems (serotonergic and catecholaminergic neurons, orexinergic neurons) are also putative CRCs. Their contribution to central respiratory chemoreception may be behavior dependent or vary according to the state of vigilance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrice G Guyenet
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia 22908, USA.
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