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Phalip A, Netser S, Wagner S. Understanding the neurobiology of social behavior through exploring brain-wide dynamics of neural activity. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2024; 165:105856. [PMID: 39159735 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2024.105856] [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: 05/10/2024] [Revised: 08/11/2024] [Accepted: 08/14/2024] [Indexed: 08/21/2024]
Abstract
Social behavior is highly complex and adaptable. It can be divided into multiple temporal stages: detection, approach, and consummatory behavior. Each stage can be further divided into several cognitive and behavioral processes, such as perceiving social cues, evaluating the social and non-social contexts, and recognizing the internal/emotional state of others. Recent studies have identified numerous brain-wide circuits implicated in social behavior and suggested the existence of partially overlapping functional brain networks underlying various types of social and non-social behavior. However, understanding the brain-wide dynamics underlying social behavior remains challenging, and several brain-scale dynamics (macro-, meso-, and micro-scale levels) need to be integrated. Here, we suggest leveraging new tools and concepts to explore social brain networks and integrate those different levels. These include studying the expression of immediate-early genes throughout the entire brain to impartially define the structure of the neuronal networks involved in a given social behavior. Then, network dynamics could be investigated using electrode arrays or multi-channel fiber photometry. Finally, tools like high-density silicon probes and miniscopes can probe neural activity in specific areas and across neuronal populations at the single-cell level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adèle Phalip
- Sagol Department of Neurobiology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel.
| | - Shai Netser
- Sagol Department of Neurobiology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
| | - Shlomo Wagner
- Sagol Department of Neurobiology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
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2
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Lanni I, Chiacchierini G, Papagno C, Santangelo V, Campolongo P. Treating Alzheimer's disease with brain stimulation: From preclinical models to non-invasive stimulation in humans. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2024; 165:105831. [PMID: 39074672 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2024.105831] [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: 05/20/2024] [Revised: 07/20/2024] [Accepted: 07/24/2024] [Indexed: 07/31/2024]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a severe and progressive neurodegenerative condition that exerts detrimental effects on brain function. As of now, there is no effective treatment for AD patients. This review explores two distinct avenues of research. The first revolves around the use of animal studies and preclinical models to gain insights into AD's underlying mechanisms and potential treatment strategies. Specifically, it delves into the effectiveness of interventions such as Optogenetics and Chemogenetics, shedding light on their implications for understanding pathophysiological mechanisms and potential therapeutic applications. The second avenue focuses on non-invasive brain stimulation (NiBS) techniques in the context of AD. Evidence suggests that NiBS can successfully modulate cognitive functions associated with various neurological and neuropsychiatric disorders, including AD, as demonstrated by promising findings. Here, we critically assessed recent findings in AD research belonging to these lines of research and discuss their potential impact on the clinical horizon of AD treatment. These multifaceted approaches offer hope for advancing our comprehension of AD pathology and developing novel therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilenia Lanni
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy; Behavioral Neuropharmacology Unit, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy
| | - Giulia Chiacchierini
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy; Behavioral Neuropharmacology Unit, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy
| | - Costanza Papagno
- Center for Mind/Brain Sciences (CIMeC), University of Trento, Rovereto, Italy
| | - Valerio Santangelo
- Functional Neuroimaging Laboratory, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy; Department of Philosophy, Social Sciences & Education, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Patrizia Campolongo
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy; Behavioral Neuropharmacology Unit, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy.
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3
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Leopold AV, Verkhusha VV. Engineering signalling pathways in mammalian cells. Nat Biomed Eng 2024:10.1038/s41551-024-01237-z. [PMID: 39237709 DOI: 10.1038/s41551-024-01237-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2024] [Indexed: 09/07/2024]
Abstract
In mammalian cells, signalling pathways orchestrate cellular growth, differentiation and survival, as well as many other processes that are essential for the proper functioning of cells. Here we describe cutting-edge genetic-engineering technologies for the rewiring of signalling networks in mammalian cells. Specifically, we describe the recombination of native pathway components, cross-kingdom pathway transplantation, and the development of de novo signalling within cells and organelles. We also discuss how, by designing signalling pathways, mammalian cells can acquire new properties, such as the capacity for photosynthesis, the ability to detect cancer and senescent cell markers or to synthesize hormones or metabolites in response to chemical or physical stimuli. We also review the applications of mammalian cells in biocomputing. Technologies for engineering signalling pathways in mammalian cells are advancing basic cellular biology, biomedical research and drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna V Leopold
- Medicum, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Vladislav V Verkhusha
- Medicum, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.
- Department of Genetics and Gruss-Lipper Biophotonics Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA.
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4
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Lockyer JL, Reading A, Vicenzi S, Zbela A, Viswanathan S, Delandre C, Newland JW, McMullen JPD, Marshall OJ, Gasperini R, Foa L, Lin JY. Selective optogenetic inhibition of Gα q or Gα i signaling by minimal RGS domains disrupts circuit functionality and circuit formation. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2024; 121:e2411846121. [PMID: 39190348 PMCID: PMC11388284 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2411846121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2024] [Accepted: 07/12/2024] [Indexed: 08/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Optogenetic techniques provide genetically targeted, spatially and temporally precise approaches to correlate cellular activities and physiological outcomes. In the nervous system, G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) have essential neuromodulatory functions through binding extracellular ligands to induce intracellular signaling cascades. In this work, we develop and validate an optogenetic tool that disrupts Gαq signaling through membrane recruitment of a minimal regulator of G protein signaling (RGS) domain. This approach, Photo-induced Gα Modulator-Inhibition of Gαq (PiGM-Iq), exhibited potent and selective inhibition of Gαq signaling. Using PiGM-Iq we alter the behavior of Caenorhabditis elegans and Drosophila with outcomes consistent with GPCR-Gαq disruption. PiGM-Iq changes axon guidance in cultured dorsal root ganglia neurons in response to serotonin. PiGM-Iq activation leads to developmental deficits in zebrafish embryos and larvae resulting in altered neuronal wiring and behavior. Furthermore, by altering the minimal RGS domain, we show that this approach is amenable to Gαi signaling. Our unique and robust optogenetic Gα inhibiting approaches complement existing neurobiological tools and can be used to investigate the functional effects neuromodulators that signal through GPCR and trimeric G proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jayde L Lockyer
- Tasmanian School of Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS 7000, Australia
| | - Andrew Reading
- Tasmanian School of Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS 7000, Australia
| | - Silvia Vicenzi
- Tasmanian School of Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS 7000, Australia
| | - Agnieszka Zbela
- Tasmanian School of Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS 7000, Australia
| | - Saranya Viswanathan
- Tasmanian School of Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS 7000, Australia
| | - Caroline Delandre
- Menzies Institute of Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS 7000, Australia
| | - Jake W Newland
- Menzies Institute of Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS 7000, Australia
| | - John P D McMullen
- Menzies Institute of Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS 7000, Australia
| | - Owen J Marshall
- Menzies Institute of Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS 7000, Australia
| | - Robert Gasperini
- Tasmanian School of Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS 7000, Australia
| | - Lisa Foa
- School of Psychological Sciences, University of Tasmania, Sandy Bay, TAS 7005, Australia
| | - John Y Lin
- Tasmanian School of Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS 7000, Australia
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5
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Kim YJ, Tohyama S, Nagashima T, Nagase M, Hida Y, Hamada S, Watabe AM, Ohtsuka T. A light-controlled phospholipase C for imaging of lipid dynamics and controlling neural plasticity. Cell Chem Biol 2024; 31:1336-1348.e7. [PMID: 38582083 DOI: 10.1016/j.chembiol.2024.03.001] [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: 10/25/2023] [Revised: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/08/2024]
Abstract
Phospholipase C (PLC) is a key enzyme that regulates physiological processes via lipid and calcium signaling. Despite advances in protein engineering, no tools are available for direct PLC control. Here, we developed a novel optogenetic tool, light-controlled PLCβ (opto-PLCβ). Opto-PLCβ uses a light-induced dimer module, which directs an engineered PLC to the plasma membrane in a light-dependent manner. Our design includes an autoinhibitory capacity, ensuring stringent control over PLC activity. Opto-PLCβ triggers reversible calcium responses and lipid dynamics in a restricted region, allowing precise spatiotemporal control of PLC signaling. Using our system, we discovered that phospholipase D-mediated phosphatidic acid contributes to diacylglycerol clearance on the plasma membrane. Moreover, we extended its applicability in vivo, demonstrating that opto-PLCβ can enhance amygdala synaptic plasticity and associative fear learning in mice. Thus, opto-PLCβ offers precise spatiotemporal control, enabling comprehensive investigation of PLC-mediated signaling pathways, lipid dynamics, and their physiological consequences in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yeon-Jeong Kim
- Department of Biochemistry, Graduate School of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Yamanashi, 1110 Shimokato, Chuo, Yamanashi 409-3898, Japan
| | - Suguru Tohyama
- Institute of Clinical Medicine and Research, Research Center for Medical Sciences, The Jikei University School of Medicine, Chiba, Japan
| | - Takashi Nagashima
- Institute of Clinical Medicine and Research, Research Center for Medical Sciences, The Jikei University School of Medicine, Chiba, Japan
| | - Masashi Nagase
- Institute of Clinical Medicine and Research, Research Center for Medical Sciences, The Jikei University School of Medicine, Chiba, Japan
| | - Yamato Hida
- Department of Biochemistry, Graduate School of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Yamanashi, 1110 Shimokato, Chuo, Yamanashi 409-3898, Japan
| | - Shun Hamada
- Department of Biochemistry, Graduate School of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Yamanashi, 1110 Shimokato, Chuo, Yamanashi 409-3898, Japan
| | - Ayako M Watabe
- Institute of Clinical Medicine and Research, Research Center for Medical Sciences, The Jikei University School of Medicine, Chiba, Japan.
| | - Toshihisa Ohtsuka
- Department of Biochemistry, Graduate School of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Yamanashi, 1110 Shimokato, Chuo, Yamanashi 409-3898, Japan.
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6
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Wietek J, Nozownik A, Pulin M, Saraf-Sinik I, Matosevich N, Gowrishankar R, Gat A, Malan D, Brown BJ, Dine J, Imambocus BN, Levy R, Sauter K, Litvin A, Regev N, Subramaniam S, Abrera K, Summarli D, Goren EM, Mizrachi G, Bitton E, Benjamin A, Copits BA, Sasse P, Rost BR, Schmitz D, Bruchas MR, Soba P, Oren-Suissa M, Nir Y, Wiegert JS, Yizhar O. A bistable inhibitory optoGPCR for multiplexed optogenetic control of neural circuits. Nat Methods 2024; 21:1275-1287. [PMID: 38811857 PMCID: PMC11239505 DOI: 10.1038/s41592-024-02285-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024]
Abstract
Information is transmitted between brain regions through the release of neurotransmitters from long-range projecting axons. Understanding how the activity of such long-range connections contributes to behavior requires efficient methods for reversibly manipulating their function. Chemogenetic and optogenetic tools, acting through endogenous G-protein-coupled receptor pathways, can be used to modulate synaptic transmission, but existing tools are limited in sensitivity, spatiotemporal precision or spectral multiplexing capabilities. Here we systematically evaluated multiple bistable opsins for optogenetic applications and found that the Platynereis dumerilii ciliary opsin (PdCO) is an efficient, versatile, light-activated bistable G-protein-coupled receptor that can suppress synaptic transmission in mammalian neurons with high temporal precision in vivo. PdCO has useful biophysical properties that enable spectral multiplexing with other optogenetic actuators and reporters. We demonstrate that PdCO can be used to conduct reversible loss-of-function experiments in long-range projections of behaving animals, thereby enabling detailed synapse-specific functional circuit mapping.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonas Wietek
- Department of Brain Sciences, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel.
- Department of Molecular Neuroscience, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel.
- Neuroscience Research Center, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany.
| | - Adrianna Nozownik
- Center for Molecular Neurobiology, Hamburg, Germany
- Paris Brain Institute, Institut du Cerveau (ICM), CNRS UMR 7225, INSERM U1127, Sorbonne Université, Paris, France
| | - Mauro Pulin
- Center for Molecular Neurobiology, Hamburg, Germany
- Laboratory of Sensory Processing, Brain Mind Institute, Faculty of Life Sciences, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Inbar Saraf-Sinik
- Department of Brain Sciences, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
- Department of Molecular Neuroscience, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Noa Matosevich
- Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Raajaram Gowrishankar
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Center for Excellence in the Neurobiology of Addiction, Pain and Emotion, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Asaf Gat
- Department of Brain Sciences, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
- Department of Molecular Neuroscience, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Daniela Malan
- Institut für Physiologie I, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Bobbie J Brown
- Washington University Pain Center, Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Julien Dine
- Department of Brain Sciences, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
- Department of Molecular Neuroscience, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
- Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG; CNS Diseases, Biberach an der Riss, Germany
| | | | - Rivka Levy
- Department of Brain Sciences, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
- Department of Molecular Neuroscience, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | | | - Anna Litvin
- Department of Brain Sciences, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
- Department of Molecular Neuroscience, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Noa Regev
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Suraj Subramaniam
- Department of Brain Sciences, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
- Department of Molecular Neuroscience, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Khalid Abrera
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Dustin Summarli
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Eva Madeline Goren
- Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
- University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Gili Mizrachi
- Department of Brain Sciences, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
- Department of Molecular Neuroscience, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Eyal Bitton
- Department of Brain Sciences, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
- Department of Molecular Neuroscience, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Asaf Benjamin
- Department of Brain Sciences, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
- Department of Molecular Neuroscience, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Bryan A Copits
- Washington University Pain Center, Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Philipp Sasse
- Institut für Physiologie I, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Benjamin R Rost
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Berlin, Germany
- Neuroscience Research Center, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Dietmar Schmitz
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Berlin, Germany
- Neuroscience Research Center, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Bernstein Center for Computational Neuroscience, Berlin, Germany
- Einstein Center for Neurosciences, Berlin, Germany
- Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine, Berlin, Germany
| | - Michael R Bruchas
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Center for Excellence in the Neurobiology of Addiction, Pain and Emotion, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Peter Soba
- LIMES-Institute, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
- Institute of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Meital Oren-Suissa
- Department of Brain Sciences, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
- Department of Molecular Neuroscience, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Yuval Nir
- Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - J Simon Wiegert
- Center for Molecular Neurobiology, Hamburg, Germany
- MCTN, Medical Faculty Mannheim of the University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Ofer Yizhar
- Department of Brain Sciences, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel.
- Department of Molecular Neuroscience, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel.
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7
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Kuo CC, McCall JG. Neural circuit-selective, multiplexed pharmacological targeting of prefrontal cortex-projecting locus coeruleus neurons drives antinociception. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.06.08.598059. [PMID: 38895281 PMCID: PMC11185789 DOI: 10.1101/2024.06.08.598059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
Selective manipulation of neural circuits using optogenetics and chemogenetics holds great translational potential but requires genetic access to neurons. Here, we demonstrate a general framework for identifying genetic tool-independent, pharmacological strategies for neural circuit-selective modulation. We developed an economically accessible calcium imaging-based approach for large-scale pharmacological scans of endogenous receptor-mediated neural activity. As a testbed for this approach, we used the mouse locus coeruleus due to the combination of its widespread, modular efferent neural circuitry and its wide variety of endogenously expressed GPCRs. Using machine learning-based action potential deconvolution and retrograde tracing, we identified an agonist cocktail that selectively inhibits medial prefrontal cortex-projecting locus coeruleus neurons. In vivo, this cocktail produces synergistic antinociception, consistent with selective pharmacological blunting of this neural circuit. This framework has broad utility for selective targeting of other neural circuits under different physiological and pathological states, facilitating non-genetic translational applications arising from cell type-selective discoveries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao-Cheng Kuo
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA; Center for Clinical Pharmacology, University of Health Sciences and Pharmacy in St. Louis and Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA; Washington University Pain Center, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Jordan G. McCall
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA; Center for Clinical Pharmacology, University of Health Sciences and Pharmacy in St. Louis and Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA; Washington University Pain Center, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
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8
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Nagase M, Nagashima T, Hamada S, Morishima M, Tohyama S, Arima-Yoshida F, Hiyoshi K, Hirano T, Ohtsuka T, Watabe AM. All-optical presynaptic plasticity induction by photoactivated adenylyl cyclase targeted to axon terminals. CELL REPORTS METHODS 2024; 4:100740. [PMID: 38521059 PMCID: PMC11045876 DOI: 10.1016/j.crmeth.2024.100740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Revised: 10/08/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024]
Abstract
Intracellular signaling plays essential roles in various cell types. In the central nervous system, signaling cascades are strictly regulated in a spatiotemporally specific manner to govern brain function; for example, presynaptic cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) can enhance the probability of neurotransmitter release. In the last decade, channelrhodopsin-2 has been engineered for subcellular targeting using localization tags, but optogenetic tools for intracellular signaling are not well developed. Therefore, we engineered a selective presynaptic fusion tag for photoactivated adenylyl cyclase (bPAC-Syn1a) and found its high localization at presynaptic terminals. Furthermore, an all-optical electrophysiological method revealed rapid and robust short-term potentiation by bPAC-Syn1a at brain stem-amygdala synapses in acute brain slices. Additionally, bPAC-Syn1a modulated mouse immobility behavior. These results indicate that bPAC-Syn1a can manipulate presynaptic cAMP signaling in vitro and in vivo. The all-optical manipulation technique developed in this study can help further elucidate the dynamic regulation of various cellular functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masashi Nagase
- Institute of Clinical Medicine and Research, Research Center for Medical Sciences, The Jikei University School of Medicine, Chiba 277-8567, Japan
| | - Takashi Nagashima
- Institute of Clinical Medicine and Research, Research Center for Medical Sciences, The Jikei University School of Medicine, Chiba 277-8567, Japan
| | - Shun Hamada
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi 409-3898, Japan
| | - Mieko Morishima
- Institute of Clinical Medicine and Research, Research Center for Medical Sciences, The Jikei University School of Medicine, Chiba 277-8567, Japan
| | - Suguru Tohyama
- Institute of Clinical Medicine and Research, Research Center for Medical Sciences, The Jikei University School of Medicine, Chiba 277-8567, Japan
| | - Fumiko Arima-Yoshida
- Institute of Clinical Medicine and Research, Research Center for Medical Sciences, The Jikei University School of Medicine, Chiba 277-8567, Japan
| | - Kanae Hiyoshi
- Institute of Clinical Medicine and Research, Research Center for Medical Sciences, The Jikei University School of Medicine, Chiba 277-8567, Japan
| | - Tomoha Hirano
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi 409-3898, Japan
| | - Toshihisa Ohtsuka
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi 409-3898, Japan.
| | - Ayako M Watabe
- Institute of Clinical Medicine and Research, Research Center for Medical Sciences, The Jikei University School of Medicine, Chiba 277-8567, Japan.
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9
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Wang W. Protein-Based Tools for Studying Neuromodulation. ACS Chem Biol 2024; 19:788-797. [PMID: 38581649 PMCID: PMC11129172 DOI: 10.1021/acschembio.4c00037] [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] [Indexed: 04/08/2024]
Abstract
Neuromodulators play crucial roles in regulating neuronal activity and affecting various aspects of brain functions, including learning, memory, cognitive functions, emotional states, and pain modulation. In this Account, we describe our group's efforts in designing sensors and tools for studying neuromodulation. Our lab focuses on developing new classes of integrators that can detect neuromodulators across the whole brain while leaving a mark for further imaging analysis at high spatial resolution. Our lab also designed chemical- and light-dependent protein switches for controlling peptide activity to potentially modulate the endogenous receptors of the neuromodulatory system in order to study the causal effects of selective neuronal pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenjing Wang
- Life Sciences Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
- Department of Chemistry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
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10
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Shkarina K, Broz P. Selective induction of programmed cell death using synthetic biology tools. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2024; 156:74-92. [PMID: 37598045 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2023.07.012] [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: 05/05/2023] [Revised: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/21/2023]
Abstract
Regulated cell death (RCD) controls the removal of dispensable, infected or malignant cells, and is thus essential for development, homeostasis and immunity of multicellular organisms. Over the last years different forms of RCD have been described (among them apoptosis, necroptosis, pyroptosis and ferroptosis), and the cellular signaling pathways that control their induction and execution have been characterized at the molecular level. It has also become apparent that different forms of RCD differ in their capacity to elicit inflammation or an immune response, and that RCD pathways show a remarkable plasticity. Biochemical and genetic studies revealed that inhibition of a given pathway often results in the activation of back-up cell death mechanisms, highlighting close interconnectivity based on shared signaling components and the assembly of multivalent signaling platforms that can initiate different forms of RCD. Due to this interconnectivity and the pleiotropic effects of 'classical' cell death inducers, it is challenging to study RCD pathways in isolation. This has led to the development of tools based on synthetic biology that allow the targeted induction of RCD using chemogenetic or optogenetic methods. Here we discuss recent advances in the development of such toolset, highlighting their advantages and limitations, and their application for the study of RCD in cells and animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kateryna Shkarina
- Institute of Innate Immunity, University Hospital Bonn, Germany; German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Bonn, Germany.
| | - Petr Broz
- Department of Immunobiology, University of Lausanne, Switzerland.
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11
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Sato K, Ohuchi H. Molecular Property, Manipulation, and Potential Use of Opn5 and Its Homologs. J Mol Biol 2024; 436:168319. [PMID: 37865286 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2023.168319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2023] [Revised: 10/08/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/23/2023]
Abstract
Animal opsin is a G-protein coupled receptor (GPCR) and binds retinal as a chromophore to form a photopigment. The Opsin 5 (Opn5) group within the animal opsin family comprises a diverse array of related proteins, such as Opn5m, a protein conserved across all vertebrate lineages including mammals, and other members like Opn5L1 and Opn5L2 found in non-mammalian vertebrate genomes, and Opn6 found in non-therian vertebrate genomes, along with Opn5 homologs present in invertebrates. Although these proteins collectively constitute a single clade within the molecular phylogenetic tree of animal opsins, they exhibit markedly distinct molecular characteristics in areas such as retinal binding properties, photoreaction, and G-protein coupling specificity. Based on their molecular features, they are believed to play a significant role in physiological functions. However, our understanding of their precise physiological functions and molecular characteristics is still developing and only partially realized. Furthermore, their unique molecular characteristics of Opn5-related proteins suggest a high potential for their use as optogenetic tools through more specialized manipulations. This review intends to encapsulate our current understanding of Opn5, discuss potential manipulations of its molecular attributes, and delve into its prospective utility in the burgeoning field of animal opsin optogenetics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keita Sato
- Department of Cytology and Histology, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University, 2-5-1 Shikata-cho, Okayama City, Okayama 700-8558, Japan.
| | - Hideyo Ohuchi
- Department of Cytology and Histology, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University, 2-5-1 Shikata-cho, Okayama City, Okayama 700-8558, Japan
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12
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Longden TA, Lederer WJ. Electro-metabolic signaling. J Gen Physiol 2024; 156:e202313451. [PMID: 38197953 PMCID: PMC10783436 DOI: 10.1085/jgp.202313451] [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: 07/26/2023] [Revised: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Precise matching of energy substrate delivery to local metabolic needs is essential for the health and function of all tissues. Here, we outline a mechanistic framework for understanding this critical process, which we refer to as electro-metabolic signaling (EMS). All tissues exhibit changes in metabolism over varying spatiotemporal scales and have widely varying energetic needs and reserves. We propose that across tissues, common signatures of elevated metabolism or increases in energy substrate usage that exceed key local thresholds rapidly engage mechanisms that generate hyperpolarizing electrical signals in capillaries that then relax contractile elements throughout the vasculature to quickly adjust blood flow to meet changing needs. The attendant increase in energy substrate delivery serves to meet local metabolic requirements and thus avoids a mismatch in supply and demand and prevents metabolic stress. We discuss in detail key examples of EMS that our laboratories have discovered in the brain and the heart, and we outline potential further EMS mechanisms operating in tissues such as skeletal muscle, pancreas, and kidney. We suggest that the energy imbalance evoked by EMS uncoupling may be central to cellular dysfunction from which the hallmarks of aging and metabolic diseases emerge and may lead to generalized organ failure states-such as diverse flavors of heart failure and dementia. Understanding and manipulating EMS may be key to preventing or reversing these dysfunctions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas A. Longden
- Department of Physiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Laboratory of Neurovascular Interactions, Center for Biomedical Engineering and Technology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - W. Jonathan Lederer
- Department of Physiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Laboratory of Molecular Cardiology, Center for Biomedical Engineering and Technology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
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13
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Rabinowitch I, Colón-Ramos DA, Krieg M. Understanding neural circuit function through synaptic engineering. Nat Rev Neurosci 2024; 25:131-139. [PMID: 38172626 DOI: 10.1038/s41583-023-00777-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
Synapses are a key component of neural circuits, facilitating rapid and specific signalling between neurons. Synaptic engineering - the synthetic insertion of new synaptic connections into in vivo neural circuits - is an emerging approach for neural circuit interrogation. This approach is especially powerful for establishing causality in neural circuit structure-function relationships, for emulating synaptic plasticity and for exploring novel patterns of circuit connectivity. Contrary to other approaches for neural circuit manipulation, synaptic engineering targets specific connections between neurons and functions autonomously with no user-controlled external activation. Synaptic engineering has been successfully implemented in several systems and in different forms, including electrical synapses constructed from ectopically expressed connexin gap junction proteins, synthetic optical synapses composed of presynaptic photon-emitting luciferase coupled with postsynaptic light-gated channels, and artificial neuropeptide signalling pathways. This Perspective describes these different methods and how they have been applied, and examines how the field may advance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ithai Rabinowitch
- Department of Medical Neurobiology, Institute for Medical Research Israel-Canada, Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel.
| | - Daniel A Colón-Ramos
- Wu Tsai Institute, Department of Neuroscience and Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Michael Krieg
- ICFO - Institut de Ciencies Fotoniques, The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Castelldefels, Spain
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14
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Liang Y, Zhou Y, Moneruzzaman M, Wang Y. Optogenetic Neuromodulation in Inflammatory Pain. Neuroscience 2024; 536:104-118. [PMID: 37977418 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2023.11.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2023] [Revised: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/11/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
Inflammatory pain is one of the most prevalent forms of pain and negatively influences the quality of life. Neuromodulation has been an expanding field of pain medicine and is accepted by patients who have failed to respond to several conservative treatments. Despite its effectiveness, neuromodulation still lacks clinically robust evidence on inflammatory pain management. Optogenetics, which controls particular neurons or brain circuits with high spatiotemporal accuracy, has recently been an emerging area for inflammatory pain management and studying its mechanism. This review considers the fundamentals of optogenetics, including using opsins, targeting gene expression, and wavelength-specific light delivery techniques. The recent evidence on application and development of optogenetic neuromodulation in inflammatory pain is also summarised. The current limitations and challenges restricting the progression and clinical transformation of optogenetics in pain are addressed. Optogenetic neuromodulation in inflammatory pain has many potential targets, and developing strategies enabling clinical application is a desirable therapeutic approach and outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanan Liang
- Rehabilitation Center, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China; University of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Qingdao, China; Research Center for Basic Medical Sciences, Jinan, China
| | - Yaping Zhou
- Shandong Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Jinan, China
| | - Md Moneruzzaman
- Rehabilitation Center, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Yonghui Wang
- Rehabilitation Center, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China.
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15
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Zhou F, Tichy AM, Imambocus BN, Sakharwade S, Rodriguez Jimenez FJ, González Martínez M, Jahan I, Habib M, Wilhelmy N, Burre V, Lömker T, Sauter K, Helfrich-Förster C, Pielage J, Grunwald Kadow IC, Janovjak H, Soba P. Optimized design and in vivo application of optogenetically functionalized Drosophila dopamine receptors. Nat Commun 2023; 14:8434. [PMID: 38114457 PMCID: PMC10730509 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-43970-0] [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: 05/18/2023] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuromodulatory signaling via G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) plays a pivotal role in regulating neural network function and animal behavior. The recent development of optogenetic tools to induce G protein-mediated signaling provides the promise of acute and cell type-specific manipulation of neuromodulatory signals. However, designing and deploying optogenetically functionalized GPCRs (optoXRs) with accurate specificity and activity to mimic endogenous signaling in vivo remains challenging. Here we optimize the design of optoXRs by considering evolutionary conserved GPCR-G protein interactions and demonstrate the feasibility of this approach using two Drosophila Dopamine receptors (optoDopRs). These optoDopRs exhibit high signaling specificity and light sensitivity in vitro. In vivo, we show receptor and cell type-specific effects of dopaminergic signaling in various behaviors, including the ability of optoDopRs to rescue the loss of the endogenous receptors. This work demonstrates that optoXRs can enable optical control of neuromodulatory receptor-specific signaling in functional and behavioral studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fangmin Zhou
- Institute of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054, Erlangen, Germany
- LIMES Institute, Department of Molecular Brain Physiology and Behavior, University of Bonn, Carl-Troll-Str. 31, 53115, Bonn, Germany
- Neuronal Patterning and Connectivity laboratory, Center for Molecular Neurobiology (ZMNH), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20251, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Alexandra-Madelaine Tichy
- Australian Regenerative Medicine Institute (ARMI), Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, 3800, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory Australia (EMBL Australia), Monash University, 3800, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Bibi Nusreen Imambocus
- LIMES Institute, Department of Molecular Brain Physiology and Behavior, University of Bonn, Carl-Troll-Str. 31, 53115, Bonn, Germany
| | - Shreyas Sakharwade
- Institute of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054, Erlangen, Germany
- LIMES Institute, Department of Molecular Brain Physiology and Behavior, University of Bonn, Carl-Troll-Str. 31, 53115, Bonn, Germany
| | - Francisco J Rodriguez Jimenez
- Institute of Physiology II, University Clinic Bonn (UKB), University of Bonn, 53115, Bonn, Germany
- ZIEL-Institute of Life and Health, Technical University of Munich, School of Life Sciences, 85354, Freising, Germany
| | - Marco González Martínez
- Institute of Physiology II, University Clinic Bonn (UKB), University of Bonn, 53115, Bonn, Germany
| | - Ishrat Jahan
- Institute of Physiology II, University Clinic Bonn (UKB), University of Bonn, 53115, Bonn, Germany
| | - Margarita Habib
- Neurobiology and Genetics, Biocenter, University of Würzburg, Am Hubland, 97074, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Nina Wilhelmy
- Division of Neurobiology and Zoology, RPTU University of Kaiserslautern, 67663, Kaiserslautern, Germany
| | - Vanessa Burre
- Division of Neurobiology and Zoology, RPTU University of Kaiserslautern, 67663, Kaiserslautern, Germany
| | - Tatjana Lömker
- Neuronal Patterning and Connectivity laboratory, Center for Molecular Neurobiology (ZMNH), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20251, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Kathrin Sauter
- Neuronal Patterning and Connectivity laboratory, Center for Molecular Neurobiology (ZMNH), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20251, Hamburg, Germany
| | | | - Jan Pielage
- Division of Neurobiology and Zoology, RPTU University of Kaiserslautern, 67663, Kaiserslautern, Germany
| | - Ilona C Grunwald Kadow
- Institute of Physiology II, University Clinic Bonn (UKB), University of Bonn, 53115, Bonn, Germany
- ZIEL-Institute of Life and Health, Technical University of Munich, School of Life Sciences, 85354, Freising, Germany
| | - Harald Janovjak
- Australian Regenerative Medicine Institute (ARMI), Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, 3800, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory Australia (EMBL Australia), Monash University, 3800, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
- Flinders Health and Medical Research Institute, College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, 5042, Bedford Park, South Australia, Australia
| | - Peter Soba
- Institute of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054, Erlangen, Germany.
- LIMES Institute, Department of Molecular Brain Physiology and Behavior, University of Bonn, Carl-Troll-Str. 31, 53115, Bonn, Germany.
- Neuronal Patterning and Connectivity laboratory, Center for Molecular Neurobiology (ZMNH), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20251, Hamburg, Germany.
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16
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Fessl T, Majellaro M, Bondar A. Microscopy and spectroscopy approaches to study GPCR structure and function. Br J Pharmacol 2023. [PMID: 38087925 DOI: 10.1111/bph.16297] [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: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
The GPCR signalling cascade is a key pathway responsible for the signal transduction of a multitude of physical and chemical stimuli, including light, odorants, neurotransmitters and hormones. Understanding the structural and functional properties of the GPCR cascade requires direct observation of signalling processes in high spatial and temporal resolution, with minimal perturbation to endogenous systems. Optical microscopy and spectroscopy techniques are uniquely suited to this purpose because they excel at multiple spatial and temporal scales and can be used in living objects. Here, we review recent developments in microscopy and spectroscopy technologies which enable new insights into GPCR signalling. We focus on advanced techniques with high spatial and temporal resolution, single-molecule methods, labelling strategies and approaches suitable for endogenous systems and large living objects. This review aims to assist researchers in choosing appropriate microscopy and spectroscopy approaches for a variety of applications in the study of cellular signalling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomáš Fessl
- Faculty of Science, University of South Bohemia, České Budějovice, Czech Republic
| | | | - Alexey Bondar
- Faculty of Science, University of South Bohemia, České Budějovice, Czech Republic
- Laboratory of Microscopy and Histology, Institute of Entomology, Biology Centre of the Czech Academy of Sciences, České Budějovice, Czech Republic
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17
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Wang W, Shi Y, Chai W, Kevin Tang KW, Pyatnitskiy I, Xie Y, Liu X, He W, Jeong J, Hsieh JC, Lozano AR, Artman B, Henkelman G, Chen B, Wang H. Ultrasound programmable hydrogen-bonded organic frameworks for sono-chemogenetics. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.12.08.570721. [PMID: 38106007 PMCID: PMC10723392 DOI: 10.1101/2023.12.08.570721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
The precise control of mechanochemical activation within deep tissues via non-invasive ultrasound holds profound implications for advancing our understanding of fundamental biomedical sciences and revolutionizing disease treatments. However, a theory-guided mechanoresponsive materials system with well-defined ultrasound activation has yet to be explored. Here we present the concept of using porous hydrogen-bonded organic frameworks (HOFs) as toolkits for focused ultrasound programmably triggered drug activation to control specific cellular events in the deep brain, through on-demand scission of the supramolecular interactions. A theoretical model is developed to visualize the mechanochemical scission and ultrasound mechanics, providing valuable guidelines for the rational design of mechanoresponsive materials at the molecular level to achieve programmable and spatiotemporal activation control. To demonstrate the practicality of this approach, we encapsulate designer drug clozapine N-oxide (CNO) into the optimal HOF nanoparticles for FUS gated release to activate engineered G-protein-coupled receptors in the mice and rat ventral tegmental area (VTA), and hence achieved targeted neural circuits modulation even at depth 9 mm with a latency of seconds. This work demonstrates the capability of ultrasound to precisely control molecular interaction and develops ultrasound programmable HOFs to minimally invasive and spatiotemporally control cellular events, thereby facilitating the establishment of precise molecular therapeutic possibilities. We anticipate that this research could serve as a source of inspiration for precise and non-invasive molecular manipulation techniques, potentially applicable in programming molecular robots to achieve sophisticated control over cellular events in deep tissues.
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18
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Rodgers J, Wright P, Ballister ER, Hughes RB, Storchi R, Wynne J, Martial FP, Lucas RJ. Modulating signalling lifetime to optimise a prototypical animal opsin for optogenetic applications. Pflugers Arch 2023; 475:1387-1407. [PMID: 38036775 PMCID: PMC10730688 DOI: 10.1007/s00424-023-02879-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2023] [Revised: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023]
Abstract
Animal opsins are light activated G-protein-coupled receptors, capable of optogenetic control of G-protein signalling for research or therapeutic applications. Animal opsins offer excellent photosensitivity, but their temporal resolution can be limited by long photoresponse duration when expressed outside their native cellular environment. Here, we explore methods for addressing this limitation for a prototypical animal opsin (human rod opsin) in HEK293T cells. We find that the application of the canonical rhodopsin kinase (GRK1)/visual arrestin signal termination mechanism to this problem is complicated by a generalised suppressive effect of GRK1 expression. This attenuation can be overcome using phosphorylation-independent mutants of arrestin, especially when these are tethered to the opsin protein. We further show that point mutations targeting the Schiff base stability of the opsin can also reduce signalling lifetime. Finally, we apply one such mutation (E122Q) to improve the temporal fidelity of restored visual responses following ectopic opsin expression in the inner retina of a mouse model of retinal degeneration (rd1). Our results reveal that these two strategies (targeting either arrestin binding or Schiff-base hydrolysis) can produce more time-delimited opsin signalling under heterologous expression and establish the potential of this approach to improve optogenetic performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Rodgers
- Centre for Biological Timing, Division of Neuroscience, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, M13 9PT, UK.
| | - Phillip Wright
- Centre for Biological Timing, Division of Neuroscience, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, M13 9PT, UK
| | - Edward R Ballister
- Centre for Biological Timing, Division of Neuroscience, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, M13 9PT, UK
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, NY, 10027, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons of Columbia University, New York, 10032, NY, USA
| | - Rebecca B Hughes
- Centre for Biological Timing, Division of Neuroscience, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, M13 9PT, UK
| | - Riccardo Storchi
- Centre for Biological Timing, Division of Neuroscience, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, M13 9PT, UK
| | - Jonathan Wynne
- Centre for Biological Timing, Division of Neuroscience, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, M13 9PT, UK
| | - Franck P Martial
- Centre for Biological Timing, Division of Neuroscience, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, M13 9PT, UK
| | - Robert J Lucas
- Centre for Biological Timing, Division of Neuroscience, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, M13 9PT, UK.
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19
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Courtney CD, Sobieski C, Ramakrishnan C, Ingram RJ, Wojnowski NM, DeFazio RA, Deisseroth K, Christian-Hinman CA. Optoα1AR activation in astrocytes modulates basal hippocampal synaptic excitation and inhibition in a stimulation-specific manner. Hippocampus 2023; 33:1277-1291. [PMID: 37767862 PMCID: PMC10842237 DOI: 10.1002/hipo.23580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2023] [Revised: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
Astrocytes play active roles at synapses and can monitor, respond, and adapt to local synaptic activity. While there is abundant evidence that astrocytes modulate excitatory transmission in the hippocampus, evidence for astrocytic modulation of hippocampal synaptic inhibition remains more limited. Furthermore, to better investigate roles for astrocytes in modulating synaptic transmission, more tools that can selectively activate native G protein signaling pathways in astrocytes with both spatial and temporal precision are needed. Here, we utilized AAV8-GFAP-Optoα1AR-eYFP (Optoα1AR), a viral vector that enables activation of Gq signaling in astrocytes via light-sensitive α1-adrenergic receptors. To determine if stimulating astrocytic Optoα1AR modulates hippocampal synaptic transmission, recordings were made in CA1 pyramidal cells with surrounding astrocytes expressing Optoα1AR, channelrhodopsin (ChR2), or GFP. Both high-frequency (20 Hz, 45-ms light pulses, 5 mW, 5 min) and low-frequency (0.5 Hz, 1-s pulses at increasing 1, 5, and 10 mW intensities, 90 s per intensity) blue light stimulation were tested. 20 Hz Optoα1AR stimulation increased both inhibitory and excitatory postsynaptic current (IPSC and EPSC) frequency, and the effect on miniature IPSCs (mIPSCs) was largely reversible within 20 min. However, low-frequency stimulation of Optoα1AR did not modulate either IPSCs or EPSCs, suggesting that astrocytic Gq -dependent modulation of basal synaptic transmission in the hippocampus is stimulation-dependent. By contrast, low-frequency stimulation of astrocytic ChR2 was effective in increasing both synaptic excitation and inhibition. Together, these data demonstrate that Optoα1AR activation in astrocytes changes basal GABAergic and glutamatergic transmission, but only following high-frequency stimulation, highlighting the importance of temporal dynamics when using optical tools to manipulate astrocyte function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Connor D Courtney
- Neuroscience Program, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, USA
| | - Courtney Sobieski
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, USA
- Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, USA
| | - Charu Ramakrishnan
- Department of Bioengineering, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Robbie J Ingram
- Neuroscience Program, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, USA
| | - Natalia M Wojnowski
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, USA
| | - R Anthony DeFazio
- Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Karl Deisseroth
- Department of Bioengineering, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Catherine A Christian-Hinman
- Neuroscience Program, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, USA
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, USA
- Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, USA
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20
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Marcus DJ, Bruchas MR. Optical Approaches for Investigating Neuromodulation and G Protein-Coupled Receptor Signaling. Pharmacol Rev 2023; 75:1119-1139. [PMID: 37429736 PMCID: PMC10595021 DOI: 10.1124/pharmrev.122.000584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2022] [Revised: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 05/01/2023] [Indexed: 07/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite the fact that roughly 40% of all US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved pharmacological therapeutics target G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), there remains a gap in our understanding of the physiologic and functional role of these receptors at the systems level. Although heterologous expression systems and in vitro assays have revealed a tremendous amount about GPCR signaling cascades, how these cascades interact across cell types, tissues, and organ systems remains obscure. Classic behavioral pharmacology experiments lack both the temporal and spatial resolution to resolve these long-standing issues. Over the past half century, there has been a concerted effort toward the development of optical tools for understanding GPCR signaling. From initial ligand uncaging approaches to more recent development of optogenetic techniques, these strategies have allowed researchers to probe longstanding questions in GPCR pharmacology both in vivo and in vitro. These tools have been employed across biologic systems and have allowed for interrogation of everything from specific intramolecular events to pharmacology at the systems level in a spatiotemporally specific manner. In this review, we present a historical perspective on the motivation behind and development of a variety of optical toolkits that have been generated to probe GPCR signaling. Here we highlight how these tools have been used in vivo to uncover the functional role of distinct populations of GPCRs and their signaling cascades at a systems level. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) remain one of the most targeted classes of proteins for pharmaceutical intervention, yet we still have a limited understanding of how their unique signaling cascades effect physiology and behavior at the systems level. In this review, we discuss a vast array of optical techniques that have been devised to probe GPCR signaling both in vitro and in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- David J Marcus
- Center for the Neurobiology of Addiction, Pain and Emotion (D.J.M., M.R.B.), Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine (D.J.M., M.R.B.), Department of Pharmacology (M.R.B.), and Department of Bioengineering (M.R.B.), University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
| | - Michael R Bruchas
- Center for the Neurobiology of Addiction, Pain and Emotion (D.J.M., M.R.B.), Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine (D.J.M., M.R.B.), Department of Pharmacology (M.R.B.), and Department of Bioengineering (M.R.B.), University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
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21
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Hyung S, Park JH, Jung K. Application of optogenetic glial cells to neuron-glial communication. Front Cell Neurosci 2023; 17:1249043. [PMID: 37868193 PMCID: PMC10585272 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2023.1249043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Optogenetic techniques combine optics and genetics to enable cell-specific targeting and precise spatiotemporal control of excitable cells, and they are increasingly being employed. One of the most significant advantages of the optogenetic approach is that it allows for the modulation of nearby cells or circuits with millisecond precision, enabling researchers to gain a better understanding of the complex nervous system. Furthermore, optogenetic neuron activation permits the regulation of information processing in the brain, including synaptic activity and transmission, and also promotes nerve structure development. However, the optimal conditions remain unclear, and further research is required to identify the types of cells that can most effectively and precisely control nerve function. Recent studies have described optogenetic glial manipulation for coordinating the reciprocal communication between neurons and glia. Optogenetically stimulated glial cells can modulate information processing in the central nervous system and provide structural support for nerve fibers in the peripheral nervous system. These advances promote the effective use of optogenetics, although further experiments are needed. This review describes the critical role of glial cells in the nervous system and reviews the optogenetic applications of several types of glial cells, as well as their significance in neuron-glia interactions. Together, it briefly discusses the therapeutic potential and feasibility of optogenetics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sujin Hyung
- Precision Medicine Research Institute, Samsung Medical Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Medicine, Sungkyunkwan University, Samsung Medical Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Ji-Hye Park
- Graduate School of Cancer Science and Policy, Cancer Biomedical Science, National Cancer Center, Goyang-si, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyuhwan Jung
- DAWINBIO Inc., Hanam-si, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
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22
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Brazhe A, Verisokin A, Verveyko D, Postnov D. Astrocytes: new evidence, new models, new roles. Biophys Rev 2023; 15:1303-1333. [PMID: 37975000 PMCID: PMC10643736 DOI: 10.1007/s12551-023-01145-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Astrocytes have been in the limelight of active research for about 3 decades now. Over this period, ideas about their function and role in the nervous system have evolved from simple assistance in energy supply and homeostasis maintenance to a complex informational and metabolic hub that integrates data on local neuronal activity, sensory and arousal context, and orchestrates many crucial processes in the brain. Rapid progress in experimental techniques and data analysis produces a growing body of data, which can be used as a foundation for formulation of new hypotheses, building new refined mathematical models, and ultimately should lead to a new level of understanding of the contribution of astrocytes to the cognitive tasks performed by the brain. Here, we highlight recent progress in astrocyte research, which we believe expands our understanding of how low-level signaling at a cellular level builds up to processes at the level of the whole brain and animal behavior. We start our review with revisiting data on the role of noradrenaline-mediated astrocytic signaling in locomotion, arousal, sensory integration, memory, and sleep. We then briefly review astrocyte contribution to the regulation of cerebral blood flow regulation, which is followed by a discussion of biophysical mechanisms underlying astrocyte effects on different brain processes. The experimental section is closed by an overview of recent experimental techniques available for modulation and visualization of astrocyte dynamics. We then evaluate how the new data can be potentially incorporated into the new mathematical models or where and how it already has been done. Finally, we discuss an interesting prospect that astrocytes may be key players in important processes such as the switching between sleep and wakefulness and the removal of toxic metabolites from the brain milieu.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexey Brazhe
- Department of Biophysics, Biological Faculty, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Leninskie Gory, 1/24, Moscow, 119234 Russia
- Department of Molecular Neurobiology, Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry RAS, GSP-7, Miklukho-Maklay Str., 16/10, Moscow, 117997 Russia
| | - Andrey Verisokin
- Department of Theoretical Physics, Kursk State University, Radishcheva st., 33, Kursk, 305000 Russia
| | - Darya Verveyko
- Department of Theoretical Physics, Kursk State University, Radishcheva st., 33, Kursk, 305000 Russia
| | - Dmitry Postnov
- Department of Optics and Biophotonics, Saratov State University, Astrakhanskaya st., 83, Saratov, 410012 Russia
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23
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Andersen MA, Schouenborg J. Polydimethylsiloxane as a more biocompatible alternative to glass in optogenetics. Sci Rep 2023; 13:16090. [PMID: 37752160 PMCID: PMC10522705 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-43297-2] [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: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Optogenetics is highly useful to stimulate or inhibit defined neuronal populations and is often used together with electrophysiological recordings. Due to poor penetration of light in tissue, there is a need for biocompatible wave guides. Glass wave guides are relatively stiff and known to cause glia reaction that likely influence the activity in the remaining neurons. We developed highly flexible micro wave guides for optogenetics that can be used in combination with long-lasting electrophysiological recordings. We designed and evaluated polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) mono-fibers, which use the tissue as cladding, with a diameter of 71 ± 10 µm and 126 ± 5 µm. We showed that micro PDMS fibers transmitted 9-33 mW/mm2 light energy enough to activate channelrhodopsin. This was confirmed in acute extracellular recordings in vivo in which optogenetic stimulation through the PDMS fibers generated action potentials in rat hippocampus with a short onset latency. PDMS fibers had significantly less microglia and astrocytic activation in the zone nearest to the implant as compared to glass. There was no obvious difference in number of adjacent neurons between size matched wave guides. Micro PDMS wave guide demonstrates in vivo functionality and improved biocompatibility as compared to glass. This enables the delivery of light with less tissue damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Aagaard Andersen
- Neuronano Research Center, Department of Experimental Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden.
- Department of Neuroscience, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Jens Schouenborg
- Neuronano Research Center, Department of Experimental Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
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24
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Shang H, Li P, Lin X, Cai Q, Li Z, Deng L, Song Y, Chen JF, Zhou J. Neuronal and astrocytic CB1R signaling differentially modulates goal-directed behavior and working memory by distinct temporal mechanisms. Neuropsychopharmacology 2023; 48:1520-1531. [PMID: 36694040 PMCID: PMC10425374 DOI: 10.1038/s41386-023-01533-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2022] [Revised: 12/26/2022] [Accepted: 12/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Several cognitive processes, including instrumental behavior and working memory, are controlled by endocannabinoids acting on cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1R) in the brain through retrograde and presynaptic inhibition of GABA or glutamate release. However, the temporal mechanisms underlying the control of these cognitive processes by CB1Rs remain largely unknown. Here, we have developed a light-sensitive CB1R chimera (optoCB1R) by replacing the intracellular domains of bovine rhodopsin with those of human CB1R. We demonstrated that light stimulation of optoCB1R triggered canonical CB1R signaling by inhibiting cAMP (but not cGMP or IP1) signaling and activating the MAPK pathway in vitro or in vivo. Moreover, light stimulation of optoCB1R in corticostriatal glutamatergic neurons could temporally inhibit excitatory postsynaptic currents (EPSCs) at the level of seconds. Importantly, transient (3 s) and "time-locked", but not random, activation of optoCB1R signaling in corticostriatal neurons at the time of reward affected animal sensitivity to outcome devaluation and inhibited goal-directed behavior. However, prolonged (~30 min) but not transient (10 or 30 s) activation of astrocytic CB1R signaling in the hippocampus impaired working memory. Consequently, neuronal and astrocytic CB1R signaling differentially regulate working memory and goal-directed behavior through distinct temporal and cellular mechanisms. Ultimately, the pharmacological blockade of adenosine A2AR improved the neuronal and astrocytic CB1R-induced impairments in goal-directed behavior and working memory, possibly through modulation of EPSCs and c-Fos, respectively. Therefore, A2AR may represent a promising target for managing cognitive dysfunction resulting from the use of CB1R drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huiping Shang
- Molecular Neuropharmacology Laboratory, School of Optometry and Ophthalmology and Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Peijun Li
- Key Laboratory of Structural Malformations in Children of Zhejiang Province, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Xiangxiang Lin
- Molecular Neuropharmacology Laboratory, School of Optometry and Ophthalmology and Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Qionghui Cai
- Molecular Neuropharmacology Laboratory, School of Optometry and Ophthalmology and Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Zhihui Li
- Molecular Neuropharmacology Laboratory, School of Optometry and Ophthalmology and Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Lu Deng
- Key Laboratory of Structural Malformations in Children of Zhejiang Province, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Yue Song
- Molecular Neuropharmacology Laboratory, School of Optometry and Ophthalmology and Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Jiang-Fan Chen
- Molecular Neuropharmacology Laboratory, School of Optometry and Ophthalmology and Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China.
| | - Jianhong Zhou
- Molecular Neuropharmacology Laboratory, School of Optometry and Ophthalmology and Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China.
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25
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Hong JD, Palczewski K. A short story on how chromophore is hydrolyzed from rhodopsin for recycling. Bioessays 2023; 45:e2300068. [PMID: 37454357 PMCID: PMC10614701 DOI: 10.1002/bies.202300068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2023] [Revised: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
The photocycle of visual opsins is essential to maintain the light sensitivity of the retina. The early physical observations of the rhodopsin photocycle by Böll and Kühne in the 1870s inspired over a century's worth of investigations on rhodopsin biochemistry. A single photon isomerizes the Schiff-base linked 11-cis-retinylidene chromophore of rhodopsin, converting it to the all-trans agonist to elicit phototransduction through photoactivated rhodopsin (Rho*). Schiff base hydrolysis of the agonist is a key step in the photocycle, not only diminishing ongoing phototransduction but also allowing for entry and binding of fresh 11-cis chromophore to regenerate the rhodopsin pigment and maintain light sensitivity. Many challenges have been encountered in measuring the rate of this hydrolysis, but recent advancements have facilitated studies of the hydrolysis within the native membrane environment of rhodopsin. These techniques can now be applied to study hydrolysis of agonist in other opsin proteins that mediate phototransduction or chromophore turnover. In this review, we discuss the progress that has been made in characterizing the rhodopsin photocycle and the journey to characterize the hydrolysis of its all-trans-retinylidene agonist.
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Affiliation(s)
- John D. Hong
- Gavin Herbert Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
- Department of Chemistry, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| | - Krzysztof Palczewski
- Gavin Herbert Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
- Department of Chemistry, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
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26
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Hetzler B, Donthamsetti P, Peitsinis Z, Stanley C, Trauner D, Isacoff EY. Optical Control of Dopamine D2-like Receptors with Cell-Specific Fast-Relaxing Photoswitches. J Am Chem Soc 2023; 145:18778-18788. [PMID: 37586061 PMCID: PMC10472511 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.3c02735] [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: 03/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023]
Abstract
Dopamine D2-like receptors (D2R, D3R, and D4R) control diverse physiological and behavioral functions and are important targets for the treatment of a variety of neuropsychiatric disorders. Their complex distribution and activation kinetics in the brain make it difficult to target specific receptor populations with sufficient precision. We describe a new toolkit of light-activatable, fast-relaxing, covalently taggable chemical photoswitches that fully activate, partially activate, or block D2-like receptors. This technology combines the spatiotemporal precision of a photoswitchable ligand (P) with cell type and spatial specificity of a genetically encoded membrane anchoring protein (M) to which the P tethers. These tools set the stage for targeting endogenous D2-like receptor signaling with molecular, cellular, and spatiotemporal precision using only one wavelength of light.
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Affiliation(s)
- Belinda
E. Hetzler
- Department
of Chemistry, New York University, New York, New York 10003, United States
| | - Prashant Donthamsetti
- Molecular
and Cell Biology, University of California,
Berkeley, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
| | - Zisis Peitsinis
- Department
of Chemistry, New York University, New York, New York 10003, United States
| | - Cherise Stanley
- Molecular
and Cell Biology, University of California,
Berkeley, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
| | - Dirk Trauner
- Department
of Chemistry, New York University, New York, New York 10003, United States
- Department
of Chemistry and Department of Systems Pharmacology and Translational
Therapeutics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, United States
| | - Ehud Y. Isacoff
- Molecular
and Cell Biology, University of California,
Berkeley, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
- Helen
Wills Neuroscience Institute, University
of California, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
- Weill Neurohub, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
- Molecular
Biophysics & Integrated Bioimaging Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
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27
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Hagio H, Koyama W, Hosaka S, Song AD, Narantsatsral J, Matsuda K, Sugihara T, Shimizu T, Koyanagi M, Terakita A, Hibi M. Optogenetic manipulation of Gq- and Gi/o-coupled receptor signaling in neurons and heart muscle cells. eLife 2023; 12:e83974. [PMID: 37589544 PMCID: PMC10435233 DOI: 10.7554/elife.83974] [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: 10/05/2022] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023] Open
Abstract
G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) transmit signals into cells depending on the G protein type. To analyze the functions of GPCR signaling, we assessed the effectiveness of animal G-protein-coupled bistable rhodopsins that can be controlled into active and inactive states by light application using zebrafish. We expressed Gq- and Gi/o-coupled bistable rhodopsins in hindbrain reticulospinal V2a neurons, which are involved in locomotion, or in cardiomyocytes. Light stimulation of the reticulospinal V2a neurons expressing Gq-coupled spider Rh1 resulted in an increase in the intracellular Ca2+ level and evoked swimming behavior. Light stimulation of cardiomyocytes expressing the Gi/o-coupled mosquito Opn3, pufferfish TMT opsin, or lamprey parapinopsin induced cardiac arrest, and the effect was suppressed by treatment with pertussis toxin or barium, suggesting that Gi/o-dependent regulation of inward-rectifier K+ channels controls cardiac function. These data indicate that these rhodopsins are useful for optogenetic control of GPCR-mediated signaling in zebrafish neurons and cardiomyocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanako Hagio
- Graduate School of Science, Nagoya UniversityNagoyaJapan
- Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya UniversityNagoyaJapan
- Institute for Advanced Research, Nagoya UniversityNagoyaJapan
| | - Wataru Koyama
- Graduate School of Science, Nagoya UniversityNagoyaJapan
| | - Shiori Hosaka
- Graduate School of Science, Nagoya UniversityNagoyaJapan
| | | | | | - Koji Matsuda
- Graduate School of Science, Nagoya UniversityNagoyaJapan
| | | | | | | | - Akihisa Terakita
- Graduate School of Science, Osaka Metropolitan UniversityOsakaJapan
| | - Masahiko Hibi
- Graduate School of Science, Nagoya UniversityNagoyaJapan
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28
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Sato K, Yamashita T, Ohuchi H. Mammalian type opsin 5 preferentially activates G14 in Gq-type G proteins triggering intracellular calcium response. J Biol Chem 2023; 299:105020. [PMID: 37423300 PMCID: PMC10432815 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2023.105020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Revised: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 07/01/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Mammalian type opsin 5 (Opn5m), a UV-sensitive G protein-coupled receptor opsin highly conserved in vertebrates, would provide a common basis for UV sensing from lamprey to humans. However, G protein coupled with Opn5m remains controversial due to variations in assay conditions and the origin of Opn5m across different reports. Here, we examined Opn5m from diverse species using an aequorin luminescence assay and Gα-KO cell line. Beyond the commonly studied major Gα classes, Gαq, Gα11, Gα14, and Gα15 in the Gq class were individually investigated in this study, as they can drive distinct signaling pathways in addition to a canonical calcium response. UV light triggered a calcium response via all the tested Opn5m proteins in 293T cells, which was abolished by Gq-type Gα deletion and rescued by cotransfection with mouse and medaka Gq-type Gα proteins. Opn5m preferentially activated Gα14 and close relatives. Mutational analysis implicated specific regions, including α3-β5 and αG-α4 loops, αG and α4 helices, and the extreme C terminus, in the preferential activation of Gα14 by Opn5m. FISH revealed co-expression of genes encoding Opn5m and Gα14 in the scleral cartilage of medaka and chicken eyes, supporting their physiological coupling. This suggests that the preferential activation of Gα14 by Opn5m is relevant for UV sensing in specific cell types.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keita Sato
- Department of Cytology and Histology, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University, Okayama City, Okayama, Japan.
| | - Takahiro Yamashita
- Department of Biophysics, Graduate School of Science, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Hideyo Ohuchi
- Department of Cytology and Histology, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University, Okayama City, Okayama, Japan.
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29
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Janosko C, Shade O, Courtney TM, Horst TJ, Liu M, Khare SD, Deiters A. Genetic Encoding of Arylazopyrazole Phenylalanine for Optical Control of Translation. ACS OMEGA 2023; 8:26590-26596. [PMID: 37521667 PMCID: PMC10373180 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.3c03512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023]
Abstract
An arylazopyrazole was explored for its use as an enhanced photoswitchable amino acid in genetic code expansion. This new unnatural amino acid was successfully incorporated into proteins in both bacterial and mammalian cells. While photocontrol of translation required pulsed irradiations, complete selectivity for the trans-configuration by the pyrrolysyl tRNA synthetase was observed, demonstrating expression of a gene of interest selectively controlled via light exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chasity
P. Janosko
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15260, United States
| | - Olivia Shade
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15260, United States
| | - Taylor M. Courtney
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15260, United States
| | - Trevor J. Horst
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15260, United States
| | - Melinda Liu
- Department
of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Rutgers
University, Piscataway, New Jersey 08854, United States
| | - Sagar D. Khare
- Department
of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Rutgers
University, Piscataway, New Jersey 08854, United States
| | - Alexander Deiters
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15260, United States
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30
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Wietek J, Nozownik A, Pulin M, Saraf-Sinik I, Matosevich N, Malan D, Brown BJ, Dine J, Levy R, Litvin A, Regev N, Subramaniam S, Bitton E, Benjamin A, Copits BA, Sasse P, Rost BR, Schmitz D, Soba P, Nir Y, Wiegert JS, Yizhar O. A bistable inhibitory OptoGPCR for multiplexed optogenetic control of neural circuits. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.07.01.547328. [PMID: 37425961 PMCID: PMC10327178 DOI: 10.1101/2023.07.01.547328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/11/2023]
Abstract
Information is transmitted between brain regions through the release of neurotransmitters from long-range projecting axons. Understanding how the activity of such long-range connections contributes to behavior requires efficient methods for reversibly manipulating their function. Chemogenetic and optogenetic tools, acting through endogenous G-protein coupled receptor (GPCRs) pathways, can be used to modulate synaptic transmission, but existing tools are limited in sensitivity, spatiotemporal precision, or spectral multiplexing capabilities. Here we systematically evaluated multiple bistable opsins for optogenetic applications and found that the Platynereis dumerilii ciliary opsin (PdCO) is an efficient, versatile, light-activated bistable GPCR that can suppress synaptic transmission in mammalian neurons with high temporal precision in-vivo. PdCO has superior biophysical properties that enable spectral multiplexing with other optogenetic actuators and reporters. We demonstrate that PdCO can be used to conduct reversible loss-of-function experiments in long-range projections of behaving animals, thereby enabling detailed synapse-specific functional circuit mapping.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonas Wietek
- Department of Brain Sciences, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
- Department of Molecular Neuroscience, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Adrianna Nozownik
- Center for Molecular Neurobiology, Hamburg, Germany
- Present address: Paris Brain Institute, Institut du Cerveau (ICM), CNRS UMR 7225, INSERM U1127, Sorbonne Université, Paris, France
| | - Mauro Pulin
- Center for Molecular Neurobiology, Hamburg, Germany
- Present address: Laboratory of Sensory Processing, Brain Mind Institute, Faculty of Life Sciences, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Inbar Saraf-Sinik
- Department of Brain Sciences, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
- Department of Molecular Neuroscience, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Noa Matosevich
- Sagol school of neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Daniela Malan
- Institut für Physiologie I, Universität Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Bobbie J. Brown
- Washington University Pain Center, Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Julien Dine
- Department of Brain Sciences, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
- Department of Molecular Neuroscience, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
- Present address: Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG; CNS Diseases, Biberach an der Riss, Germany
| | - Rivka Levy
- Department of Brain Sciences, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
- Department of Molecular Neuroscience, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Anna Litvin
- Department of Brain Sciences, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
- Department of Molecular Neuroscience, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Noa Regev
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Suraj Subramaniam
- Department of Brain Sciences, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
- Department of Molecular Neuroscience, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Eyal Bitton
- Department of Brain Sciences, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
- Department of Molecular Neuroscience, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Asaf Benjamin
- Department of Brain Sciences, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
- Department of Molecular Neuroscience, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Bryan A. Copits
- Washington University Pain Center, Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Philipp Sasse
- Institut für Physiologie I, Universität Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Benjamin R. Rost
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Berlin, Germany
- Neuroscience Research Center, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Dietmar Schmitz
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Berlin, Germany
- Neuroscience Research Center, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Bernstein Center for Computational Neuroscience, Berlin, Germany
- Einstein Center for Neurosciences Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Max-Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine, Berlin, Germany
| | - Peter Soba
- Institute of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
- LIMES-Institute, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Yuval Nir
- Sagol school of neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - J. Simon Wiegert
- Center for Molecular Neurobiology, Hamburg, Germany
- Present address: MCTN, Medical Faculty Mannheim of the University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Ofer Yizhar
- Department of Brain Sciences, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
- Department of Molecular Neuroscience, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
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31
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Zhou Z, Wang X, Li X, Liao L. A bibliometric profile of optogenetics: quantitative and qualitative analyses. Front Neurosci 2023; 17:1221316. [PMID: 37424998 PMCID: PMC10323434 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1221316] [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: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Optogenetics is a rapidly developing field combining optics and genetics, with promising applications in neuroscience and beyond. However, there is currently a lack of bibliometric analyses examining publications in this area. Method Publications on optogenetics were gathered from the Web of Science Core Collection Database. A quantitative analysis was conducted to gain insights into the annual scientific output, and distribution of authors, journals, subject categories, countries, and institutions. Additionally, qualitative analysis, such as co-occurrence network analysis, thematic analysis, and theme evolution, were performed to identify the main areas and trends of optogenetics articles. Results A total of 6,824 publications were included for analysis. The number of articles has rapidly grown since 2010, with an annual growth rate of 52.82%. Deisseroth K, Boyden ES, and Hegemann P were the most prolific contributors to the field. The United States contributed the most articles (3,051 articles), followed by China (623 articles). A majority of optogenetics-related articles are published in high-quality journals, including NATURE, SCIENCE, and CELL. These articles mainly belong to four subjects: neurosciences, biochemistry and molecular biology, neuroimaging, and materials science. Co-occurrence keyword network analysis identified three clusters: optogenetic components and techniques, optogenetics and neural circuitry, optogenetics and disease. Conclusion The results suggest that optogenetics research is flourishing, focusing on optogenetic techniques and their applications in neural circuitry exploration and disease intervention. Optogenetics is expected to remain a hot topic in various fields in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhonghan Zhou
- Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Department of Urology, China Rehabilitation Research Center, Beijing, China
- University of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Qingdao, Shandong, China
- China Rehabilitation Science Institute, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Neural Injury and Rehabilitation, Beijing, China
| | - Xuesheng Wang
- Department of Urology, China Rehabilitation Research Center, Beijing, China
- University of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Qingdao, Shandong, China
- China Rehabilitation Science Institute, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Neural Injury and Rehabilitation, Beijing, China
- School of Rehabilitation, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xunhua Li
- Department of Urology, China Rehabilitation Research Center, Beijing, China
- University of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Qingdao, Shandong, China
- China Rehabilitation Science Institute, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Neural Injury and Rehabilitation, Beijing, China
- School of Rehabilitation, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Limin Liao
- Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Department of Urology, China Rehabilitation Research Center, Beijing, China
- University of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Qingdao, Shandong, China
- China Rehabilitation Science Institute, Beijing, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Neural Injury and Rehabilitation, Beijing, China
- School of Rehabilitation, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
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Gerasimov E, Bezprozvanny I, Vlasova OL. Activation of Gq-Coupled Receptors in Astrocytes Restores Cognitive Function in Alzheimer's Disease Mice Model. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:9969. [PMID: 37373117 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24129969] [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: 05/11/2023] [Revised: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is one of the most widespread neurodegenerative diseases. Most of the current AD therapeutic developments are directed towards improving neuronal cell function or facilitating Aβ amyloid clearance from the brain. However, some recent evidence suggests that astrocytes may play a significant role in the pathogenesis of AD. In this paper, we evaluated the effects of the optogenetic activation of Gq-coupled exogenous receptors expressed in astrocytes as a possible way of restoring brain function in the AD mouse model. We evaluated the effects of the optogenetic activation of astrocytes on long-term potentiation, spinal morphology and behavioral readouts in 5xFAD mouse model of AD. We determined that in vivo chronic activation of astrocytes resulted in the preservation of spine density, increased mushroom spine survival, and improved performance in cognitive behavioral tests. Furthermore, chronic optogenetic stimulation of astrocytes resulted in the elevation of EAAT-2 glutamate uptake transporter expression, which could be a possible explanation for the observed in vivo neuroprotective effects. The obtained results suggest that the persistent activation of astrocytes may be considered a potential therapeutic approach for the treatment of AD and possibly other neurodegenerative disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evgenii Gerasimov
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurodegeneration, Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University, Khlopina St. 11, 194021 St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Ilya Bezprozvanny
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurodegeneration, Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University, Khlopina St. 11, 194021 St. Petersburg, Russia
- Department of Physiology, UT Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Olga L Vlasova
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurodegeneration, Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University, Khlopina St. 11, 194021 St. Petersburg, Russia
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33
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Tsukamoto H, Kubo Y. A self-inactivating invertebrate opsin optically drives biased signaling toward Gβγ-dependent ion channel modulation. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2023; 120:e2301269120. [PMID: 37186850 PMCID: PMC10214182 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2301269120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2023] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Animal opsins, light-sensitive G protein-coupled receptors, have been used for optogenetic tools to control G protein-dependent signaling pathways. Upon G protein activation, the Gα and Gβγ subunits drive different intracellular signaling pathways, leading to complex cellular responses. For some purposes, Gα- and Gβγ-dependent signaling needs to be separately modulated, but these responses are simultaneously evoked due to the 1:1 stoichiometry of Gα and Gβγ Nevertheless, we show temporal activation of G protein using a self-inactivating invertebrate opsin, Platynereis c-opsin1, drives biased signaling for Gβγ-dependent GIRK channel activation in a light-dependent manner by utilizing the kinetic difference between Gβγ-dependent and Gα-dependent responses. The opsin-induced transient Gi/o activation preferentially causes activation of the kinetically fast Gβγ-dependent GIRK channels rather than slower Gi/oα-dependent adenylyl cyclase inhibition. Although similar Gβγ-biased signaling properties were observed in a self-inactivating vertebrate visual pigment, Platynereis c-opsin1 requires fewer retinal molecules to evoke cellular responses. Furthermore, the Gβγ-biased signaling properties of Platynereis c-opsin1 are enhanced by genetically fusing with RGS8 protein, which accelerates G protein inactivation. The self-inactivating invertebrate opsin and its RGS8-fusion protein can function as optical control tools biased for Gβγ-dependent ion channel modulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hisao Tsukamoto
- Department of Biology, Kobe University, Kobe657-8501, Japan
- Department of Life and Coordination-Complex Molecular Science, Institute for Molecular Science, Okazaki444-8585, Japan
- Japan Science and Technology Agency, Precursory Research for Embryonic Science and Technology, Kawaguchi 332-0012, Japan
| | - Yoshihiro Kubo
- Division of Biophysics and Neurobiology, Department of Molecular Physiology, National Institute for Physiological Sciences, Okazaki444-8585, Japan
- Department of Physiological Sciences, The Graduate University for Advanced Studies, Hayama240-0193, Japan
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34
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Lockyer J, Reading A, Vicenzi S, Delandre C, Marshall O, Gasperini R, Foa L, Lin JY. Optogenetic inhibition of Gα signalling alters and regulates circuit functionality and early circuit formation. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.05.06.539674. [PMID: 37214843 PMCID: PMC10197587 DOI: 10.1101/2023.05.06.539674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Optogenetic techniques provide genetically targeted, spatially and temporally precise approaches to correlate cellular activities and physiological outcomes. In the nervous system, G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) have essential neuromodulatory functions through binding extracellular ligands to induce intracellular signaling cascades. In this work, we develop and validate a new optogenetic tool that disrupt Gαq signaling through membrane recruitment of a minimal Regulator of G-protein signaling (RGS) domain. This approach, Photo-induced Modulation of Gα protein - Inhibition of Gαq (PiGM-Iq), exhibited potent and selective inhibition of Gαq signaling. We alter the behavior of C. elegans and Drosophila with outcomes consistent with GPCR-Gαq disruption. PiGM-Iq also changes axon guidance in culture dorsal root ganglia neurons in response to serotonin. PiGM-Iq activation leads to developmental deficits in zebrafish embryos and larvae resulting in altered neuronal wiring and behavior. By altering the choice of minimal RGS domain, we also show that this approach is amenable to Gαi signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jayde Lockyer
- Tasmanian School of Medicine, University of Tasmania, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Andrew Reading
- Tasmanian School of Medicine, University of Tasmania, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Silvia Vicenzi
- Tasmanian School of Medicine, University of Tasmania, Tasmania, Australia
- Current affiliation, Moores Cancer Center, School of Medicine, Division of Regenerative Medicine, University of California, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Caroline Delandre
- Menzies Institute of Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Owen Marshall
- Menzies Institute of Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Robert Gasperini
- Tasmanian School of Medicine, University of Tasmania, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Lisa Foa
- School of Psychological Sciences, University of Tasmania, Tasmania, Australia
| | - John Y. Lin
- Tasmanian School of Medicine, University of Tasmania, Tasmania, Australia
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35
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Delgado L, Navarrete M. Shining the Light on Astrocytic Ensembles. Cells 2023; 12:1253. [PMID: 37174653 PMCID: PMC10177371 DOI: 10.3390/cells12091253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2023] [Revised: 04/22/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
While neurons have traditionally been considered the primary players in information processing, the role of astrocytes in this mechanism has largely been overlooked due to experimental constraints. In this review, we propose that astrocytic ensembles are active working groups that contribute significantly to animal conduct and suggest that studying the maps of these ensembles in conjunction with neurons is crucial for a more comprehensive understanding of behavior. We also discuss available methods for studying astrocytes and argue that these ensembles, complementarily with neurons, code and integrate complex behaviors, potentially specializing in concrete functions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marta Navarrete
- Instituto Cajal, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), 28002 Madrid, Spain
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36
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Mason BM, Koyanagi M, Sugihara T, Iwasaki M, Slepak V, Miller DJ, Sakai Y, Terakita A. Multiple opsins in a reef-building coral, Acropora millepora. Sci Rep 2023; 13:1628. [PMID: 36710295 PMCID: PMC9884665 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-28476-5] [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: 05/27/2022] [Accepted: 01/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Opsins, light-sensitive G protein-coupled receptors, have been identified in corals but their properties are largely unknown. Here, we identified six opsin genes (acropsins 1-6) from a coral species Acropora millepora, including three novel opsins (acropsins 4-6), and successfully characterized the properties of four out of the six acropsins. Acropsins 1 and 6 exhibited light-dependent cAMP increases in cultured cells, suggesting that the acropsins could light-dependently activate Gs-type G protein like the box jellyfish opsin from the same opsin group. Spectral sensitivity curves having the maximum sensitivities at ~ 472 nm and ~ 476 nm were estimated for acropsins 1 and 6, respectively, based on the light wavelength-dependent cAMP increases in these opsins-expressing cells (heterologous action spectroscopy). Acropsin 2 belonging to the same group as acropsins 1 and 6 did not induce light-dependent cAMP or Ca2+ changes. We then successfully estimated the acropsin 2 spectral sensitivity curve having its maximum value at ~ 471 nm with its chimera mutant which possessed the third cytoplasmic loop of the Gs-coupled jellyfish opsin. Acropsin 4 categorized as another group light-dependently induced intracellular Ca2+ increases but not cAMP changes. Our results uncovered that the Acropora coral possesses multiple opsins coupling two distinct cascades, cyclic nucleotide and Ca2+signaling light-dependently.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin M Mason
- ARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD, 4811, Australia.,Molecular and Cell Biology, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD, 4811, Australia
| | - Mitsumasa Koyanagi
- Department of Biology and Geosciences, Graduate School of Science, Osaka City University, 3-3-138 Sugimoto, Sumiyoshi-Ku, Osaka, 558-8585, Japan.,The OCU Advanced Research Institute for Natural Science and Technology, Osaka Metropolitan University, 3-3-138 Sugimoto, Sumiyoshi-Ku, Osaka, 558-8585, Japan.,Department of Biology, Graduate School of Science, Osaka Metropolitan University, 3-3-138 Sugimoto, Sumiyoshi-Ku, Osaka, 558-8585, Japan
| | - Tomohiro Sugihara
- Department of Biology and Geosciences, Graduate School of Science, Osaka City University, 3-3-138 Sugimoto, Sumiyoshi-Ku, Osaka, 558-8585, Japan.,Department of Biology, Graduate School of Science, Osaka Metropolitan University, 3-3-138 Sugimoto, Sumiyoshi-Ku, Osaka, 558-8585, Japan
| | - Makoto Iwasaki
- Department of Biology, Graduate School of Science, Osaka Metropolitan University, 3-3-138 Sugimoto, Sumiyoshi-Ku, Osaka, 558-8585, Japan
| | - Vladlen Slepak
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - David J Miller
- Centre for Tropical Bioinformatics and Molecular Biology, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD, Australia.,Marine Genomics Unit, Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University, Onna, Okinawa, 904-0495, Japan
| | - Yusuke Sakai
- Department of Biology, Graduate School of Science, Osaka Metropolitan University, 3-3-138 Sugimoto, Sumiyoshi-Ku, Osaka, 558-8585, Japan
| | - Akihisa Terakita
- Department of Biology and Geosciences, Graduate School of Science, Osaka City University, 3-3-138 Sugimoto, Sumiyoshi-Ku, Osaka, 558-8585, Japan. .,The OCU Advanced Research Institute for Natural Science and Technology, Osaka Metropolitan University, 3-3-138 Sugimoto, Sumiyoshi-Ku, Osaka, 558-8585, Japan. .,Department of Biology, Graduate School of Science, Osaka Metropolitan University, 3-3-138 Sugimoto, Sumiyoshi-Ku, Osaka, 558-8585, Japan.
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37
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Iqbal Z, Lei Z, Ramkrishnan AS, Liu S, Hasan M, Akter M, Lam YY, Li Y. Adrenergic signalling to astrocytes in anterior cingulate cortex contributes to pain-related aversive memory in rats. Commun Biol 2023; 6:10. [PMID: 36604595 PMCID: PMC9816175 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-022-04405-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Pain contains both sensory and affective dimensions. We identify the role of norepinephrine in colorectal distention (sub-threshold for acute pain) induced conditioned place avoidance and plasticity gene expression in the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC). Activating locus coeruleus (LC)-projecting ACC neurons facilitates pain-evoked aversive consolidation and memory, while inhibiting LC-projecting ACC neurons reversibly blocks it. Optogenetic activation of ACC astrocytes facilitates aversive behaviour. ACC astrocytic Gi manipulation suppressed aversive behaviour and early plasticity gene expression induced by opto-activation of LC neurons projecting to ACC. Evidences for the critical role of β2AR in ACC astrocytes were provided using AAV encoding β2AR miRNAi to knockdown β2AR in astrocytes. In contrast, opto-activation of ACC astrocytic β2ARs promotes aversion memory. Our findings suggest that projection-specific adrenergic astrocytic signalling in ACC is integral to system-wide neuromodulation in response to visceral stimuli, and plays a key role in mediating pain-related aversion consolidation and memory formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zafar Iqbal
- Department of Neuroscience, College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong
- Centre for Regenerative Medicine and Health, Hong Kong Institute of Science & Innovation, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Zhuogui Lei
- Department of Neuroscience, College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong
- Centre for Regenerative Medicine and Health, Hong Kong Institute of Science & Innovation, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Aruna S Ramkrishnan
- Department of Neuroscience, College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Shu Liu
- Department of Neuroscience, College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Mahadi Hasan
- Department of Neuroscience, College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Mastura Akter
- Department of Neuroscience, College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Yuk Yan Lam
- Department of Neuroscience, College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong
- Centre for Regenerative Medicine and Health, Hong Kong Institute of Science & Innovation, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Ying Li
- Department of Neuroscience, College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong.
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong.
- Centre for Regenerative Medicine and Health, Hong Kong Institute of Science & Innovation, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hong Kong SAR, China.
- Centre for Biosystems, Neuroscience, and Nanotechnology, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong.
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38
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Maltsev A, Roshchin M, Bezprozvanny I, Smirnov I, Vlasova O, Balaban P, Borodinova A. Bidirectional regulation by "star forces": Ionotropic astrocyte's optical stimulation suppresses synaptic plasticity, metabotropic one strikes back. Hippocampus 2023; 33:18-36. [PMID: 36484471 DOI: 10.1002/hipo.23486] [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: 07/06/2022] [Revised: 11/24/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The role of astrocytes in modulating synaptic plasticity is an important question that until recently was not addressed due to limitations of previously existing technology. In the present study, we took an advantage of optogenetics to specifically activate astrocytes in hippocampal slices in order to study effects on synaptic function. Using the AAV-based delivery strategy, we expressed the ionotropic channelrhodopsin-2 (ChR2) or the metabotropic Gq-coupled Opto-a1AR opsins specifically in hippocampal astrocytes to compare different modalities of astrocyte activation. In electrophysiological experiments, we observed a depression of basal field excitatory postsynaptic potentials (fEPSPs) in the CA1 hippocampal layer following light stimulation of astrocytic ChR2. The ChR2-mediated depression increased under simultaneous light and electrical theta-burst stimulation (TBS). Application of the type 2 purinergic receptor antagonist suramin prevented depression of basal synaptic transmission, and switched the ChR2-dependent depression into potentiation. The GABAB receptor antagonist, phaclofen, did not prevent the depression of basal fEPSPs, but switched the ChR2-dependent depression into potentiation comparable to the values for TBS in control slices. In contrast, light stimulation of Opto-a1AR expressed in astrocytes led to an increase in basal fEPSPs, as well as a potentiation of synaptic responses to TBS significantly. A specific blocker of the Gq protein downstream target, the phospholipase C, U73122, completely prevented the effects of Opto-a1AR stimulation on basal fEPSPs or Opto + TBS responses. To understand molecular basis for the observed effects, we performed an analysis of gene expression in these slices using quantitative PCR approach. We observed a significant upregulation of "immediate-early" gene expression in hippocampal slices after light activation of Opto-a1AR-expressing astrocytes alone (cRel, Arc, Fos, JunB, and Egr1) or paired with TBS (cRel, Fos, and Egr1). Activation of ChR2-expressing hippocampal astrocytes was insufficient to affect expression of these genes in our experimental conditions. Thus, we concluded that optostimulation of astrocytes with ChR2 and Opto-a1AR optogenetic tools enables bidirectional modulation of synaptic plasticity and gene expression in hippocampus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Maltsev
- Laboratory of Cellular Neurobiology of Learning, Institute of Higher Nervous Activity and Neurophysiology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - Matvey Roshchin
- Laboratory of Cellular Neurobiology of Learning, Institute of Higher Nervous Activity and Neurophysiology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - Ilya Bezprozvanny
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurodegeneration, Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University, St. Petersburg, Russia.,Department of Physiology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Ivan Smirnov
- Laboratory of Cellular Neurobiology of Learning, Institute of Higher Nervous Activity and Neurophysiology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - Olga Vlasova
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurodegeneration, Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Pavel Balaban
- Laboratory of Cellular Neurobiology of Learning, Institute of Higher Nervous Activity and Neurophysiology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - Anastasia Borodinova
- Laboratory of Cellular Neurobiology of Learning, Institute of Higher Nervous Activity and Neurophysiology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
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39
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Leemann S, Kleinlogel S. Functional optimization of light-activatable Opto-GPCRs: Illuminating the importance of the proximal C-terminus in G-protein specificity. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1053022. [PMID: 36936685 PMCID: PMC10014536 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1053022] [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: 09/28/2022] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 03/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) are the largest family of human receptors that transmit signals from natural ligands and pharmaceutical drugs into essentially every physiological process. One main characteristic of G-protein coupled receptors is their ability to specifically couple with different families of G-proteins, thereby triggering specific downstream signaling pathways. While an abundance of structural information is available on G-protein coupled receptorn interactions with G-proteins, little is known about the G-protein coupled receptor domains functionally mediating G-protein specificity, in particular the proximal C-terminus, the structure which cannot be predicted with high confidentiality due to its flexibility. Methods: In this study, we exploited OptoGPCR chimeras between lightgated G-protein coupled receptors (opsins) and ligand-gated G-protein coupled receptors to systematically investigate the involvement of the C-terminus steering G-protein specificity. We employed rhodopsin-beta2-adrenoceptor and melanopsin-mGluR6 chimeras in second messenger assays and developed structural models of the chimeras. Results: We discovered a dominant role of the proximal C-terminus, dictating G-protein selectivity in the melanopsin-mGluR6 chimera, whereas it is the intracellular loop 3, which steers G-protein tropism in the rhodopsin-beta2-adrenoceptor. From the functional results and structural predictions, melanopsin and mGluR6 use a different mechanism to bovine rhodopsin and b2AR to couple to a selective G-protein. Discussion: Collectively, this work adds knowledge to the G-protein coupled receptor domains mediating G-protein selectivity, ultimately paving the way to optogenetically elicited specific G-protein signaling on demand.
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40
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Couée I. Perspectives in Plant Abiotic Stress Signaling. Methods Mol Biol 2023; 2642:429-444. [PMID: 36944892 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3044-0_23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/23/2023]
Abstract
State-of-the-art collections of strategies, approaches, and methods are immediately useful for ongoing characterizations or for novel discoveries in the scientific field of plant abiotic stress signaling. It must however be kept in mind that, in the future, these strategies, approaches, and methods will be facing a number of increasingly complex issues. The development of the necessary confrontation of laboratory-based knowledge on abiotic stress signaling mechanisms with real-life in natura situations of plant-stress interactions involves at least five levels of complexity: (i) plant biodiversity, (ii) the spatio-temporal heterogeneity of stress-related parameters, (iii) the unknowns of future stress-related constraints, (iv) the influence of biotic interactions, (v) the crosstalk between various signaling pathways and their final integration into physiological responses. These complexities are major bottlenecks for assessing the evolutionary, ecological, and agronomical relevance of abiotic stress signaling studies. All of the presently-described strategies, approaches, and methods will have to be gradually complemented with the development of real-time and in natura tools, with systematic application of mathematical modeling to complex interactions and with further research on the impact of stress memory mechanisms on long-term responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivan Couée
- UMR 6553 ECOBIO (Ecosystems-Biodiversity-Evolution), Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), University of Rennes, Rennes, France.
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41
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Surdin T, Preissing B, Rohr L, Grömmke M, Böke H, Barcik M, Azimi Z, Jancke D, Herlitze S, Mark MD, Siveke I. Optogenetic activation of mGluR1 signaling in the cerebellum induces synaptic plasticity. iScience 2022; 26:105828. [PMID: 36632066 PMCID: PMC9826949 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2022.105828] [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: 04/12/2022] [Revised: 10/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuronal plasticity underlying cerebellar learning behavior is strongly associated with type 1 metabotropic glutamate receptor (mGluR1) signaling. Activation of mGluR1 leads to activation of the Gq/11 pathway, which is involved in inducing synaptic plasticity at the parallel fiber-Purkinje cell synapse (PF-PC) in form of long-term depression (LTD). To optogenetically modulate mGluR1 signaling we fused mouse melanopsin (OPN4) that activates the Gq/11 pathway to the C-termini of mGluR1 splice variants (OPN4-mGluR1a and OPN4-mGluR1b). Activation of both OPN4-mGluR1 variants showed robust Ca2+ increase in HEK cells and PCs of cerebellar slices. We provide the prove-of-concept approach to modulate synaptic plasticity via optogenetic activation of OPN4-mGluR1a inducing LTD at the PF-PC synapse in vitro. Moreover, we demonstrate that light activation of mGluR1a signaling pathway by OPN4-mGluR1a in PCs leads to an increase in intrinsic activity of PCs in vivo and improved cerebellum driven learning behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatjana Surdin
- Department of Zoology and Neurobiology, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Bianca Preissing
- Department of Zoology and Neurobiology, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Lennard Rohr
- Department of Zoology and Neurobiology, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Michelle Grömmke
- Behavioral Neuroscience, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Hanna Böke
- Department of Zoology and Neurobiology, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Maike Barcik
- Cardiovascular Research Institute Düsseldorf, Division of Cardiology, Pulmonology, and Vascular Medicine, University Duesseldorf, Medical Faculty, Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Zohre Azimi
- Optical Imaging Group, Institut für Neuroinformatik, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Dirk Jancke
- Optical Imaging Group, Institut für Neuroinformatik, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Stefan Herlitze
- Department of Zoology and Neurobiology, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany,Corresponding author
| | - Melanie D. Mark
- Behavioral Neuroscience, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Ida Siveke
- Department of Zoology and Neurobiology, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany,Bridge Institute of Experimental Tumor Therapy, West German Cancer Center, University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany,Corresponding author
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42
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Ren J, Xue T, Wang L. Shining more light on G protein signalling modules: a novel optogenetic tool for Gq activation. SCIENCE CHINA. LIFE SCIENCES 2022; 65:2567-2568. [PMID: 35831552 DOI: 10.1007/s11427-022-2150-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2022] [Accepted: 06/22/2022] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jing Ren
- Division of Neurobiology, MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Cambridge, CB20QH, United Kingdom.
| | - Tian Xue
- School of Life Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230026, China
| | - Liping Wang
- Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, 518055, China
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43
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Girven KS, Mangieri L, Bruchas MR. Emerging approaches for decoding neuropeptide transmission. Trends Neurosci 2022; 45:899-912. [PMID: 36257845 PMCID: PMC9671847 DOI: 10.1016/j.tins.2022.09.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2022] [Revised: 09/14/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Neuropeptides produce robust effects on behavior across species, and recent research has benefited from advances in high-resolution techniques to investigate peptidergic transmission and expression throughout the brain in model systems. Neuropeptides exhibit distinct characteristics which includes their post-translational processing, release from dense core vesicles, and ability to activate G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). These complex properties have driven the need for development of specialized tools that can sense neuropeptide expression, cell activity, and release. Current research has focused on isolating when and how neuropeptide transmission occurs, as well as the conditions in which neuropeptides directly mediate physiological and adaptive behavioral states. Here we describe the current technological landscape in which the field is operating to decode key questions regarding these dynamic neuromodulators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kasey S Girven
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA; University of Washington Center for the Neurobiology of Addiction, Pain, and Emotion, Seattle, WA, USA; Department of Pharmacology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Leandra Mangieri
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA; University of Washington Center for the Neurobiology of Addiction, Pain, and Emotion, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Michael R Bruchas
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA; University of Washington Center for the Neurobiology of Addiction, Pain, and Emotion, Seattle, WA, USA; Department of Pharmacology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
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Takahashi TM, Hirano A, Kanda T, Saito VM, Ashitomi H, Tanaka KZ, Yokoshiki Y, Masuda K, Yanagisawa M, Vogt KE, Tokuda T, Sakurai T. Optogenetic induction of hibernation-like state with modified human Opsin4 in mice. CELL REPORTS METHODS 2022; 2:100336. [PMID: 36452866 PMCID: PMC9701604 DOI: 10.1016/j.crmeth.2022.100336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2022] [Revised: 09/01/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
We recently determined that the excitatory manipulation of Qrfp-expressing neurons in the preoptic area of the hypothalamus (quiescence-inducing neurons [Q neurons]) induced a hibernation-like hypothermic/hypometabolic state (QIH) in mice. To control the QIH with a higher time resolution, we develop an optogenetic method using modified human opsin4 (OPN4; also known as melanopsin), a G protein-coupled-receptor-type blue-light photoreceptor. C-terminally truncated OPN4 (OPN4dC) stably and reproducibly induces QIH for at least 24 h by illumination with low-power light (3 μW, 473 nm laser) with high temporal resolution. The high sensitivity of OPN4dC allows us to transcranially stimulate Q neurons with blue-light-emitting diodes and non-invasively induce the QIH. OPN4dC-mediated QIH recapitulates the kinetics of the physiological changes observed in natural hibernation, revealing that Q neurons concurrently contribute to thermoregulation and cardiovascular function. This optogenetic method may facilitate identification of the neural mechanisms underlying long-term dormancy states such as sleep, daily torpor, and hibernation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tohru M. Takahashi
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
- International Integrative Institute for Sleep medicine (WPI-IIIS), University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Arisa Hirano
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
- International Integrative Institute for Sleep medicine (WPI-IIIS), University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
- JST PRESTO, Japan
| | - Takeshi Kanda
- International Integrative Institute for Sleep medicine (WPI-IIIS), University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Viviane M. Saito
- Memory Research Unit, Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University (OIST), Okinawa, Japan
| | - Hiroto Ashitomi
- Memory Research Unit, Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University (OIST), Okinawa, Japan
| | - Kazumasa Z. Tanaka
- Memory Research Unit, Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University (OIST), Okinawa, Japan
| | - Yasufumi Yokoshiki
- Institute of Innovative Research (IIR), Tokyo Institute of Technology, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kosaku Masuda
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
- International Integrative Institute for Sleep medicine (WPI-IIIS), University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Masashi Yanagisawa
- International Integrative Institute for Sleep medicine (WPI-IIIS), University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Kaspar E. Vogt
- International Integrative Institute for Sleep medicine (WPI-IIIS), University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Takashi Tokuda
- JST PRESTO, Japan
- Institute of Innovative Research (IIR), Tokyo Institute of Technology, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takeshi Sakurai
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
- International Integrative Institute for Sleep medicine (WPI-IIIS), University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
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Chowdhury A, Luchetti A, Fernandes G, Filho DA, Kastellakis G, Tzilivaki A, Ramirez EM, Tran MY, Poirazi P, Silva AJ. A locus coeruleus-dorsal CA1 dopaminergic circuit modulates memory linking. Neuron 2022; 110:3374-3388.e8. [PMID: 36041433 PMCID: PMC10508214 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2022.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Revised: 01/07/2022] [Accepted: 07/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Individual memories are often linked so that the recall of one triggers the recall of another. For example, contextual memories acquired close in time can be linked, and this is known to depend on a temporary increase in excitability that drives the overlap between dorsal CA1 (dCA1) hippocampal ensembles that encode the linked memories. Here, we show that locus coeruleus (LC) cells projecting to dCA1 have a key permissive role in contextual memory linking, without affecting contextual memory formation, and that this effect is mediated by dopamine. Additionally, we found that LC-to-dCA1-projecting neurons modulate the excitability of dCA1 neurons and the extent of overlap between dCA1 memory ensembles as well as the stability of coactivity patterns within these ensembles. This discovery of a neuromodulatory system that specifically affects memory linking without affecting memory formation reveals a fundamental separation between the brain mechanisms modulating these two distinct processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ananya Chowdhury
- Departments of Neurobiology, Psychiatry & Biobehavioral Sciences, and Psychology, Integrative Center for Learning and Memory, and Brain Research Institute, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095
| | - Alessandro Luchetti
- Departments of Neurobiology, Psychiatry & Biobehavioral Sciences, and Psychology, Integrative Center for Learning and Memory, and Brain Research Institute, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095
| | - Giselle Fernandes
- Departments of Neurobiology, Psychiatry & Biobehavioral Sciences, and Psychology, Integrative Center for Learning and Memory, and Brain Research Institute, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095
| | - Daniel Almeida Filho
- Departments of Neurobiology, Psychiatry & Biobehavioral Sciences, and Psychology, Integrative Center for Learning and Memory, and Brain Research Institute, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095
| | - George Kastellakis
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Foundation for Research and Technology, Hellas (FORTH), Vassilica Vouton, PO Box 1527, GR 711 10 Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Alexandra Tzilivaki
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Foundation for Research and Technology, Hellas (FORTH), Vassilica Vouton, PO Box 1527, GR 711 10 Heraklion, Crete, Greece
- Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin Germany
- Einstein Center for Neurosciences Berlin Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin Germany
- Neurocure Cluster of Excellence Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Erica M Ramirez
- Departments of Neurobiology, Psychiatry & Biobehavioral Sciences, and Psychology, Integrative Center for Learning and Memory, and Brain Research Institute, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095
| | - Mary Y Tran
- Departments of Neurobiology, Psychiatry & Biobehavioral Sciences, and Psychology, Integrative Center for Learning and Memory, and Brain Research Institute, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095
| | - Panayiota Poirazi
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Foundation for Research and Technology, Hellas (FORTH), Vassilica Vouton, PO Box 1527, GR 711 10 Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Alcino J Silva
- Departments of Neurobiology, Psychiatry & Biobehavioral Sciences, and Psychology, Integrative Center for Learning and Memory, and Brain Research Institute, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095
- Lead contact
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Kim H, Baek IY, Seong J. Genetically encoded fluorescent biosensors for GPCR research. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:1007893. [PMID: 36247000 PMCID: PMC9559200 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.1007893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2022] [Accepted: 09/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) regulate a wide range of physiological and pathophysiological cellular processes, thus it is important to understand how GPCRs are activated and function in various cellular contexts. In particular, the activation process of GPCRs is dynamically regulated upon various extracellular stimuli, and emerging evidence suggests the subcellular functions of GPCRs at endosomes and other organelles. Therefore, precise monitoring of the GPCR activation process with high spatiotemporal resolution is required to investigate the underlying molecular mechanisms of GPCR functions. In this review, we will introduce genetically encoded fluorescent biosensors that can precisely monitor the real-time GPCR activation process in live cells. The process includes the binding of extracellular GPCR ligands, conformational change of GPCR, recruitment of G proteins or β-arrestin, GPCR internalization and trafficking, and the GPCR-related downstream signaling events. We will introduce fluorescent GPCR biosensors based on a variety of strategies such as fluorescent resonance energy transfer (FRET), bioluminescence resonance energy transfer (BRET), circular permuted fluorescent protein (cpFP), and nanobody. We will discuss the pros and cons of these GPCR biosensors as well as their applications in GPCR research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyunbin Kim
- Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul, South Korea
- Division of Bio-Medical Science and Technology, KIST School, Korea University of Science and Technology, Seoul, South Korea
| | - In-Yeop Baek
- Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul, South Korea
- Department of Converging Science and Technology, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Jihye Seong
- Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul, South Korea
- Division of Bio-Medical Science and Technology, KIST School, Korea University of Science and Technology, Seoul, South Korea
- Department of Converging Science and Technology, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, South Korea
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Bickle J, De Sousa AF, Silva AJ. New research tools suggest a “levels-less” image of the behaving organism and dissolution of the reduction vs. anti-reduction dispute. Front Psychol 2022; 13:990316. [PMID: 36110269 PMCID: PMC9470241 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.990316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2022] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
A kind of “ruthless reductionism” characterized the experimental practices of the first two decades of molecular and cellular cognition (MCC). More recently, new research tools have expanded experimental practices in this field, enabling researchers to image and manipulate individual molecular mechanisms in behaving organisms with an unprecedented temporal, sub-cellular, cellular, and even circuit-wide specificity. These tools dramatically expand the range and reach of experiments in MCC, and in doing so they may help us transcend the worn-out and counterproductive debates about “reductionism” and “emergence” that divide neuroscientists and philosophers alike. We describe examples of these new tools and illustrate their practical power by presenting an exemplary recent case of MCC research using them. From these tools and results, we provide an initial sketch of a new image of the behaving organism in its full causal-interactive complexity, with its molecules, cells, and circuits combined within the single system that it is. This new image stands in opposition to the traditional “levels” image of the behaving organism, and even the initial sketch we provide of it here offers hope for avoiding the dreary metaphysical debates about “emergence” and “downward causation,” and even the reduction vs. anti-reduction dispute, all dependent upon the familiar “levels” image.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Bickle
- Department of Philosophy and Religion, Shackouls Honors College, Mississippi State University, Starkville, MS, United States
- Department of Advanced Biomedical Education, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS, United States
- *Correspondence: John Bickle,
| | - André F. De Sousa
- Department of Neurobiology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Alcino J. Silva
- Department of Neurobiology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
- Department of Psychiatry and Integrative Center for Learning and Memory, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, United States
- Department of Psychology and Integrative Center for Learning and Memory, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, United States
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48
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Chimeric GPCRs mimic distinct signaling pathways and modulate microglia responses. Nat Commun 2022; 13:4728. [PMID: 35970889 PMCID: PMC9378622 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-32390-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) regulate processes ranging from immune responses to neuronal signaling. However, ligands for many GPCRs remain unknown, suffer from off-target effects or have poor bioavailability. Additionally, dissecting cell type-specific responses is challenging when the same GPCR is expressed on different cells within a tissue. Here, we overcome these limitations by engineering DREADD-based GPCR chimeras that bind clozapine-N-oxide and mimic a GPCR-of-interest. We show that chimeric DREADD-β2AR triggers responses comparable to β2AR on second messenger and kinase activity, post-translational modifications, and protein-protein interactions. Moreover, we successfully recapitulate β2AR-mediated filopodia formation in microglia, an immune cell capable of driving central nervous system inflammation. When dissecting microglial inflammation, we included two additional DREADD-based chimeras mimicking microglia-enriched GPR65 and GPR109A. DREADD-β2AR and DREADD-GPR65 modulate the inflammatory response with high similarity to endogenous β2AR, while DREADD-GPR109A shows no impact. Our DREADD-based approach allows investigation of cell type-dependent pathways without known endogenous ligands. Understanding the function of GPCRs requires stimulation with their specific ligands. Here, the authors design chemogenetic G-protein coupled receptors that allows for the study of receptors without knowing the immediate ligand, and demonstrate its use for the β2-adrenergic receptor in microglia.
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Emiliani V, Entcheva E, Hedrich R, Hegemann P, Konrad KR, Lüscher C, Mahn M, Pan ZH, Sims RR, Vierock J, Yizhar O. Optogenetics for light control of biological systems. NATURE REVIEWS. METHODS PRIMERS 2022; 2:55. [PMID: 37933248 PMCID: PMC10627578 DOI: 10.1038/s43586-022-00136-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 48.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2023]
Abstract
Optogenetic techniques have been developed to allow control over the activity of selected cells within a highly heterogeneous tissue, using a combination of genetic engineering and light. Optogenetics employs natural and engineered photoreceptors, mostly of microbial origin, to be genetically introduced into the cells of interest. As a result, cells that are naturally light-insensitive can be made photosensitive and addressable by illumination and precisely controllable in time and space. The selectivity of expression and subcellular targeting in the host is enabled by applying control elements such as promoters, enhancers and specific targeting sequences to the employed photoreceptor-encoding DNA. This powerful approach allows precise characterization and manipulation of cellular functions and has motivated the development of advanced optical methods for patterned photostimulation. Optogenetics has revolutionized neuroscience during the past 15 years and is primed to have a similar impact in other fields, including cardiology, cell biology and plant sciences. In this Primer, we describe the principles of optogenetics, review the most commonly used optogenetic tools, illumination approaches and scientific applications and discuss the possibilities and limitations associated with optogenetic manipulations across a wide variety of optical techniques, cells, circuits and organisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Emiliani
- Wavefront Engineering Microscopy Group, Photonics Department, Institut de la Vision, Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, Paris, France
| | - Emilia Entcheva
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Rainer Hedrich
- Julius-von-Sachs Institute for Biosciences, Molecular Plant Physiology and Biophysics, University of Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Peter Hegemann
- Institute for Biology, Experimental Biophysics, Humboldt-Universitaet zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Kai R. Konrad
- Julius-von-Sachs Institute for Biosciences, Molecular Plant Physiology and Biophysics, University of Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Christian Lüscher
- Department of Basic Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
- Clinic of Neurology, Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Geneva University Hospital, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Mathias Mahn
- Department of Neurobiology, Friedrich Miescher Institute for Biomedical Research, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Zhuo-Hua Pan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Visual and Anatomical Sciences, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Ruth R. Sims
- Wavefront Engineering Microscopy Group, Photonics Department, Institut de la Vision, Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, Paris, France
| | - Johannes Vierock
- Institute for Biology, Experimental Biophysics, Humboldt-Universitaet zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Neuroscience Research Center, Charité – Universitaetsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Ofer Yizhar
- Departments of Brain Sciences and Molecular Neuroscience, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
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Abstract
Optogenetic actuators enable highly precise spatiotemporal interrogation of biological processes at levels ranging from the subcellular to cells, circuits and behaving organisms. Although their application in neuroscience has traditionally focused on the control of spiking activity at the somatodendritic level, the scope of optogenetic modulators for direct manipulation of presynaptic functions is growing. Presynaptically localized opsins combined with light stimulation at the terminals allow light-mediated neurotransmitter release, presynaptic inhibition, induction of synaptic plasticity and specific manipulation of individual components of the presynaptic machinery. Here, we describe presynaptic applications of optogenetic tools in the context of the unique cell biology of axonal terminals, discuss their potential shortcomings and outline future directions for this rapidly developing research area.
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