1
|
Fonio E, Feinerman O. High mirror symmetry in mouse exploratory behavior. Front Behav Neurosci 2024; 18:1381852. [PMID: 38741684 PMCID: PMC11089150 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2024.1381852] [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: 02/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
The physicality of the world in which the animal acts-its anatomical structure, physiology, perception, emotional states, and cognitive capabilities-determines the boundaries of the behavioral space within which the animal can operate. Behavior, therefore, can be considered as the subspace that remains after secluding all actions that are not available to the animal due to constraints. The very signature of being a certain creature is reflected in these limitations that shape its behavior. A major goal of ethology is to expose those constraints that carve the intricate structure of animal behavior and reveal both uniqueness and commonalities between animals within and across taxa. Exploratory behavior in an empty arena seems to be stochastic; nevertheless, it does not mean that the moving animal is a random walker. In this study, we present how, by adding constraints to the animal's locomotion, one can gradually retain the 'mousiness' that characterizes the behaving mouse. We then introduce a novel phenomenon of high mirror symmetry along the locomotion of mice, which highlights another constraint that further compresses the complex nature of exploratory behavior in these animals. We link these findings to a known neural mechanism that could explain this phenomenon. Finally, we suggest our novel finding and derived methods to be used in the search for commonalities in the motion trajectories of various organisms across taxa.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ehud Fonio
- Department of Physics of Complex Systems, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | | |
Collapse
|
2
|
Schork I, Zamansky A, Farhat N, de Azevedo CS, Young RJ. Automated Observations of Dogs' Resting Behaviour Patterns Using Artificial Intelligence and Their Similarity to Behavioural Observations. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:1109. [PMID: 38612348 PMCID: PMC11011086 DOI: 10.3390/ani14071109] [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: 02/12/2024] [Revised: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Although direct behavioural observations are widely used, they are time-consuming, prone to error, require knowledge of the observed species, and depend on intra/inter-observer consistency. As a result, they pose challenges to the reliability and repeatability of studies. Automated video analysis is becoming popular for behavioural observations. Sleep is a biological metric that has the potential to become a reliable broad-spectrum metric that can indicate the quality of life and understanding sleep patterns can contribute to identifying and addressing potential welfare concerns, such as stress, discomfort, or health issues, thus promoting the overall welfare of animals; however, due to the laborious process of quantifying sleep patterns, it has been overlooked in animal welfare research. This study presents a system comparing convolutional neural networks (CNNs) with direct behavioural observation methods for the same data to detect and quantify dogs' sleeping patterns. A total of 13,688 videos were used to develop and train the model to quantify sleep duration and sleep fragmentation in dogs. To evaluate its similarity to the direct behavioural observations made by a single human observer, 6000 previously unseen frames were used. The system successfully classified 5430 frames, scoring a similarity rate of 89% when compared to the manually recorded observations. There was no significant difference in the percentage of time observed between the system and the human observer (p > 0.05). However, a significant difference was found in total sleep time recorded, where the automated system captured more hours than the observer (p < 0.05). This highlights the potential of using a CNN-based system to study animal welfare and behaviour research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ivana Schork
- School of Sciences, Engineering & Environment, University of Salford, Manchester M5 4WT, UK;
| | - Anna Zamansky
- Information Systems Department, University of Haifa, Haifa 31905, Israel; (A.Z.)
| | - Nareed Farhat
- Information Systems Department, University of Haifa, Haifa 31905, Israel; (A.Z.)
| | - Cristiano Schetini de Azevedo
- Department of Evolution, Biodiversity and Environment, Institute of Exact and Biological Sciences, Federal University of Ouro Preto, Ouro Preto 35402-136, Brazil;
| | - Robert John Young
- School of Sciences, Engineering & Environment, University of Salford, Manchester M5 4WT, UK;
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Drzewiecki CM, Fox AS. Understanding the heterogeneity of anxiety using a translational neuroscience approach. COGNITIVE, AFFECTIVE & BEHAVIORAL NEUROSCIENCE 2024; 24:228-245. [PMID: 38356013 PMCID: PMC11039504 DOI: 10.3758/s13415-024-01162-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/14/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
Anxiety disorders affect millions of people worldwide and present a challenge in neuroscience research because of their substantial heterogeneity in clinical presentation. While a great deal of progress has been made in understanding the neurobiology of fear and anxiety, these insights have not led to effective treatments. Understanding the relationship between phenotypic heterogeneity and the underlying biology is a critical first step in solving this problem. We show translation, reverse translation, and computational modeling can contribute to a refined, cross-species understanding of fear and anxiety as well as anxiety disorders. More specifically, we outline how animal models can be leveraged to develop testable hypotheses in humans by using targeted, cross-species approaches and ethologically informed behavioral paradigms. We discuss reverse translational approaches that can guide and prioritize animal research in nontraditional research species. Finally, we advocate for the use of computational models to harmonize cross-species and cross-methodology research into anxiety. Together, this translational neuroscience approach will help to bridge the widening gap between how we currently conceptualize and diagnose anxiety disorders, as well as aid in the discovery of better treatments for these conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carly M Drzewiecki
- California National Primate Research Center, University of California, Davis, CA, USA.
| | - Andrew S Fox
- California National Primate Research Center, University of California, Davis, CA, USA.
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Davis, CA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Gencturk S, Unal G. Rodent tests of depression and anxiety: Construct validity and translational relevance. COGNITIVE, AFFECTIVE & BEHAVIORAL NEUROSCIENCE 2024; 24:191-224. [PMID: 38413466 PMCID: PMC11039509 DOI: 10.3758/s13415-024-01171-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/03/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024]
Abstract
Behavioral testing constitutes the primary method to measure the emotional states of nonhuman animals in preclinical research. Emerging as the characteristic tool of the behaviorist school of psychology, behavioral testing of animals, particularly rodents, is employed to understand the complex cognitive and affective symptoms of neuropsychiatric disorders. Following the symptom-based diagnosis model of the DSM, rodent models and tests of depression and anxiety focus on behavioral patterns that resemble the superficial symptoms of these disorders. While these practices provided researchers with a platform to screen novel antidepressant and anxiolytic drug candidates, their construct validity-involving relevant underlying mechanisms-has been questioned. In this review, we present the laboratory procedures used to assess depressive- and anxiety-like behaviors in rats and mice. These include constructs that rely on stress-triggered responses, such as behavioral despair, and those that emerge with nonaversive training, such as cognitive bias. We describe the specific behavioral tests that are used to assess these constructs and discuss the criticisms on their theoretical background. We review specific concerns about the construct validity and translational relevance of individual behavioral tests, outline the limitations of the traditional, symptom-based interpretation, and introduce novel, ethologically relevant frameworks that emphasize simple behavioral patterns. Finally, we explore behavioral monitoring and morphological analysis methods that can be integrated into behavioral testing and discuss how they can enhance the construct validity of these tests.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sinem Gencturk
- Behavioral Neuroscience Laboratory, Department of Psychology, Boğaziçi University, 34342, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Gunes Unal
- Behavioral Neuroscience Laboratory, Department of Psychology, Boğaziçi University, 34342, Istanbul, Turkey.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Sun Z, Zhao S, Suo X, Dou Y. Sirt1 protects against hippocampal atrophy and its induced cognitive impairment in middle-aged mice. BMC Neurosci 2022; 23:33. [PMID: 35668361 PMCID: PMC9169381 DOI: 10.1186/s12868-022-00718-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sirtuin 1 (Sirt1) is a recognized longevity gene and has been shown to be associated with aging and its related diseases. Hippocampal volume is considered to be the most sensitive brain imaging phenotype for cognition, but the effect of Sirt1 on hippocampal morphology during aging has not been reported. RESULTS Herein, we investigated the effect of conditional Sirt1 knockdown on hippocampal volume in middle-aged mice, as well as its cognitive function and the underlying molecular mechanisms. Brain structural magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed that adeno-associated virus (AAV) mediated hippocampal Sirt1 knockdown caused hippocampal atrophy in 8-month-old mice. Open field test (OFT) and Morris Water Maze (MWM) test revealed that hippocampal Sirt1 knockdown significantly weakened spatial learning and memory of mice without effect on anxiety and exploratory behavior. Western blotting analysis showed that P-tau levels at serine 396 epitope were significantly increased with slightly decreased T-tau levels, while PSD95 and NMDAR2B levels were obviously reduced, indicating that hippocampal Sirt1 knockdown could activate tau hyperphosphorylation and synaptic damage. CONCLUSIONS This work revealed that Sirt1 is an important protective gene against hippocampal atrophy and its induced cognitive impairment during aging, providing potential therapeutic targets for the prevention and intervention of aging-related neuropsychic diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zuhao Sun
- Department of Radiology and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Functional Imaging, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, People's Republic of China.,School of Medical Technology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, People's Republic of China
| | - Shuang Zhao
- Department of Radiology and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Functional Imaging, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, People's Republic of China
| | - Xinjun Suo
- Department of Radiology and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Functional Imaging, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, People's Republic of China.,School of Medical Technology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300070, People's Republic of China
| | - Yan Dou
- Department of Radiology and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Functional Imaging, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, 300052, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Bermudez Contreras E, Sutherland RJ, Mohajerani MH, Whishaw IQ. Challenges of a small world analysis for the continuous monitoring of behavior in mice. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2022; 136:104621. [PMID: 35307475 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2022.104621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2021] [Revised: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Documenting a mouse's "real world" behavior in the "small world" of a laboratory cage with continuous video recordings offers insights into phenotypical expression of mouse genotypes, development and aging, and neurological disease. Nevertheless, there are challenges in the design of a small world, the behavior selected for analysis, and the form of the analysis used. Here we offer insights into small world analyses by describing how acute behavioral procedures can guide continuous behavioral methodology. We show how algorithms can identify behavioral acts including walking and rearing, circadian patterns of action including sleep duration and waking activity, and the organization of patterns of movement into home base activity and excursions, and how they are altered with aging. We additionally describe how specific tests can be incorporated within a mouse's living arrangement. We emphasize how machine learning can condense and organize continuous activity that extends over extended periods of time.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Robert J Sutherland
- Canadian Centre for Behavioural Neuroscience, University of Lethbridge, Canada
| | - Majid H Mohajerani
- Canadian Centre for Behavioural Neuroscience, University of Lethbridge, Canada.
| | - Ian Q Whishaw
- Canadian Centre for Behavioural Neuroscience, University of Lethbridge, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Aljovic A, Zhao S, Chahin M, de la Rosa C, Van Steenbergen V, Kerschensteiner M, Bareyre FM. A deep learning-based toolbox for Automated Limb Motion Analysis (ALMA) in murine models of neurological disorders. Commun Biol 2022; 5:131. [PMID: 35169263 PMCID: PMC8847458 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-022-03077-6] [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: 07/26/2021] [Accepted: 01/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
In neuroscience research, the refined analysis of rodent locomotion is complex and cumbersome, and access to the technique is limited because of the necessity for expensive equipment. In this study, we implemented a new deep learning-based open-source toolbox for Automated Limb Motion Analysis (ALMA) that requires only basic behavioral equipment and an inexpensive camera. The ALMA toolbox enables the consistent and comprehensive analyses of locomotor kinematics and paw placement and can be applied to neurological conditions affecting the brain and spinal cord. We demonstrated that the ALMA toolbox can (1) robustly track the evolution of locomotor deficits after spinal cord injury, (2) sensitively detect locomotor abnormalities after traumatic brain injury, and (3) correctly predict disease onset in a multiple sclerosis model. We, therefore, established a broadly applicable automated and standardized approach that requires minimal financial and time commitments to facilitate the comprehensive analysis of locomotion in rodent disease models. Presenting ALMA toolbox, an open source Python repository for automatic analysis of mouse locomotion using bodypart coordinates from markerless pose estimation tools. ALMA is capable of analyzing both healthy and CNS-injured mice. ALMA is also capable of predicting onset of disease in a multiple sclerosis model.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Almir Aljovic
- Institute of Clinical Neuroimmunology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, 81377, Munich, Germany.,Biomedical Center Munich (BMC), Faculty of Medicine, LMU Munich, 82152, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany.,Graduate School of Systemic Neurosciences, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universitaet Munich, 82152, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
| | - Shuqing Zhao
- Institute of Clinical Neuroimmunology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, 81377, Munich, Germany.,Biomedical Center Munich (BMC), Faculty of Medicine, LMU Munich, 82152, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany.,Graduate School of Systemic Neurosciences, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universitaet Munich, 82152, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
| | - Maryam Chahin
- Institute of Clinical Neuroimmunology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, 81377, Munich, Germany.,Biomedical Center Munich (BMC), Faculty of Medicine, LMU Munich, 82152, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany.,Graduate School of Systemic Neurosciences, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universitaet Munich, 82152, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
| | - Clara de la Rosa
- Institute of Clinical Neuroimmunology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, 81377, Munich, Germany.,Biomedical Center Munich (BMC), Faculty of Medicine, LMU Munich, 82152, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany.,Graduate School of Systemic Neurosciences, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universitaet Munich, 82152, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
| | - Valerie Van Steenbergen
- Institute of Clinical Neuroimmunology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, 81377, Munich, Germany.,Biomedical Center Munich (BMC), Faculty of Medicine, LMU Munich, 82152, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
| | - Martin Kerschensteiner
- Institute of Clinical Neuroimmunology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, 81377, Munich, Germany.,Biomedical Center Munich (BMC), Faculty of Medicine, LMU Munich, 82152, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany.,Munich Cluster of Systems Neurology (SyNergy), 81377, Munich, Germany
| | - Florence M Bareyre
- Institute of Clinical Neuroimmunology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, 81377, Munich, Germany. .,Biomedical Center Munich (BMC), Faculty of Medicine, LMU Munich, 82152, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany. .,Munich Cluster of Systems Neurology (SyNergy), 81377, Munich, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Ni W, Jiang C, Wu Y, Zhang H, Wang L, Yik JHN, Haudenschild DR, Fan S, Shen S, Hu Z. CircSLC7A2 protects against osteoarthritis through inhibition of the miR-4498/TIMP3 axis. Cell Prolif 2021; 54:e13047. [PMID: 33960555 PMCID: PMC8168424 DOI: 10.1111/cpr.13047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2020] [Revised: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are noncoding RNAs that compete against other endogenous RNA species, such as microRNAs, and have been implicated in many diseases. In this study, we investigated the role of a new circRNA (circSLC7A2) in osteoarthritis (OA). Materials and Methods The relative expression of circSLC7A2 was significantly lower in OA tissues than it was in matched controls, as shown by real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT‐qPCR). Western blotting, RT‐qPCR and immunofluorescence experiments were employed to evaluate the roles of circSLC7A2, miR‐4498 and TIMP3. The in vivo role and mechanism of circSLC7A2 were also conformed in a mouse model. Results circSLC7A2 was decreased in OA model and the circularization of circSLC7A2 was regulated by FUS. Loss of circSLC7A2 reduced the sponge of miR‐4498 and further inhibited the expression of TIMP3, subsequently leading to an inflammatory response. We further determined that miR‐4498 inhibitor reversed circSLC7A2‐knockdown‐induced OA phenotypes. Intra‐articular injection of circSLC7A2 alleviated in vivo OA progression in a mouse model of anterior cruciate ligament transection (ACLT). Conclusions The circSLC7A2/miR‐4498/TIMP3 axis of chondrocytes catabolism and anabolism plays a critical role in OA development. Our results suggest that circSLC7A2 may serve as a new therapeutic target for osteoarthritis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Weiyu Ni
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Musculoskeletal System Degeneration and Regeneration Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Chao Jiang
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Musculoskeletal System Degeneration and Regeneration Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yizheng Wu
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Musculoskeletal System Degeneration and Regeneration Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Haitao Zhang
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Musculoskeletal System Degeneration and Regeneration Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Lili Wang
- School of Statistics and Mathematics, Zhejiang Gongshang University, Hangzhou, PR China
| | - Jasper H N Yik
- Ellison Musculoskeletal Research Center, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of California System, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Dominik R Haudenschild
- Ellison Musculoskeletal Research Center, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of California System, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Shunwu Fan
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Musculoskeletal System Degeneration and Regeneration Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Shuying Shen
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Musculoskeletal System Degeneration and Regeneration Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Ziang Hu
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Musculoskeletal System Degeneration and Regeneration Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Vrana J, de Lange O, Yang Y, Newman G, Saleem A, Miller A, Cordray C, Halabiya S, Parks M, Lopez E, Goldberg S, Keller B, Strickland D, Klavins E. Aquarium: open-source laboratory software for design, execution and data management. Synth Biol (Oxf) 2021; 6:ysab006. [PMID: 34151028 PMCID: PMC8209617 DOI: 10.1093/synbio/ysab006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2020] [Revised: 01/12/2021] [Accepted: 01/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Automation has been shown to improve the replicability and scalability of biomedical and bioindustrial research. Although the work performed in many labs is repetitive and can be standardized, few academic labs can afford the time and money required to automate their workflows with robotics. We propose that human-in-the-loop automation can fill this critical gap. To this end, we present Aquarium, an open-source, web-based software application that integrates experimental design, inventory management, protocol execution and data capture. We provide a high-level view of how researchers can install Aquarium and use it in their own labs. We discuss the impacts of the Aquarium on working practices, use in biofoundries and opportunities it affords for collaboration and education in life science laboratory research and manufacture.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Justin Vrana
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Orlando de Lange
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Yaoyu Yang
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Garrett Newman
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Ayesha Saleem
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Abraham Miller
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Cameron Cordray
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Samer Halabiya
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Michelle Parks
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Eriberto Lopez
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Sarah Goldberg
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Benjamin Keller
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Devin Strickland
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Eric Klavins
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Noseda ACD, Rodrigues LS, Targa ADS, Ilkiw JL, Fagotti J, Dos Santos PD, Cecon E, Markus RP, Solimena M, Jockers R, Lima MMS. MT 2 melatonin receptors expressed in the olfactory bulb modulate depressive-like behavior and olfaction in the 6-OHDA model of Parkinson's disease. Eur J Pharmacol 2021; 891:173722. [PMID: 33159932 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2020.173722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2020] [Revised: 10/27/2020] [Accepted: 11/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Melatonin MT1 and MT2 receptors are expressed in the glomerular layer of the olfactory bulb (OB); however, the role of these receptors has not been evaluated until now. Considering the association of the OB with olfactory and depressive disorders in Parkinson's disease (PD), we sought to investigate the involvement of melatonin receptors in these non-motor disturbances in an intranigral 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA)-lesioned rat model of PD. We demonstrate the presence of functional melatonin receptors in dopaminergic neurons of the glomerular layer. Local administration of melatonin (MLT, 1 μg/μl), luzindole (LUZ, 5 μg/μl) or the MT2-selective receptor drug 4-P-PDOT (5 μg/μl) reversed the depressive-like behavior elicited by 6-OHDA. Sequential administration of 4-P-PDOT and MLT (5 μg/μl, 1 μg/μl) promoted additive antidepressant-like effects. In the evaluation of olfactory discrimination, LUZ induced an olfactory impairment when associated with the nigral lesion-induced impairment. Thus, our results suggest that melatonin MT2 receptors expressed in the glomerular layer are involved in depressive-like behaviors and in olfactory function associated with PD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ana Carolina D Noseda
- Department of Physiology, Federal University of Paraná, Curitiba, PR, Brazil; Department of Pharmacology, Federal University of Paraná, Curitiba, PR, Brazil
| | - Lais S Rodrigues
- Department of Physiology, Federal University of Paraná, Curitiba, PR, Brazil; Department of Pharmacology, Federal University of Paraná, Curitiba, PR, Brazil
| | - Adriano D S Targa
- Department of Physiology, Federal University of Paraná, Curitiba, PR, Brazil; Department of Pharmacology, Federal University of Paraná, Curitiba, PR, Brazil; Translational Research in Respiratory Medicine, Hospital Universitari Arnau de Vilanova-Santa Maria, IRBLleida, Lleida, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Respiratorias (CIBERES), Madrid, Spain
| | - Jessica L Ilkiw
- Department of Physiology, Federal University of Paraná, Curitiba, PR, Brazil
| | - Juliane Fagotti
- Department of Physiology, Federal University of Paraná, Curitiba, PR, Brazil
| | | | - Erika Cecon
- Université de Paris, Institut Cochin, INSERM, CNRS, F-75014 Paris, France
| | - Regina P Markus
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Bioscience, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Michele Solimena
- Paul Langerhans Institute Dresden (PLID) of the Helmholtz Center Munich at the University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus and Faculty of Medicine of the TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany; German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD e.V.), Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Ralf Jockers
- Université de Paris, Institut Cochin, INSERM, CNRS, F-75014 Paris, France
| | - Marcelo M S Lima
- Department of Physiology, Federal University of Paraná, Curitiba, PR, Brazil; Department of Pharmacology, Federal University of Paraná, Curitiba, PR, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Moulin TC, Covill LE, Itskov PM, Williams MJ, Schiöth HB. Rodent and fly models in behavioral neuroscience: An evaluation of methodological advances, comparative research, and future perspectives. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2020; 120:1-12. [PMID: 33242563 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2020.11.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2020] [Revised: 08/25/2020] [Accepted: 11/12/2020] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
The assessment of behavioral outcomes is a central component of neuroscientific research, which has required continuous technological innovations to produce more detailed and reliable findings. In this article, we provide an in-depth review on the progress and future implications for three model organisms (mouse, rat, and Drosophila) essential to our current understanding of behavior. By compiling a comprehensive catalog of popular assays, we are able to compare the diversity of tasks and usage of these animal models in behavioral research. This compilation also allows for the evaluation of existing state-of-the-art methods and experimental applications, including optogenetics, machine learning, and high-throughput behavioral assays. We go on to discuss novel apparatuses and inter-species analyses for centrophobism, feeding behavior, aggression and mating paradigms, with the goal of providing a unique view on comparative behavioral research. The challenges and recent advances are evaluated in terms of their translational value, ethical procedures, and trustworthiness for behavioral research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thiago C Moulin
- Functional Pharmacology Unit, Department of Neuroscience, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden.
| | - Laura E Covill
- Functional Pharmacology Unit, Department of Neuroscience, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden; Center for Hematology and Regenerative Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Pavel M Itskov
- Functional Pharmacology Unit, Department of Neuroscience, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden; Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Pharmacy, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russia; Champalimaud Centre for the Unknown, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Michael J Williams
- Functional Pharmacology Unit, Department of Neuroscience, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Helgi B Schiöth
- Functional Pharmacology Unit, Department of Neuroscience, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden; Institute for Translational Medicine and Biotechnology, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russia
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Talbot CF, Garner JP, Maness AC, McCowan B, Capitanio JP, Parker KJ. A Psychometrically Robust Screening Tool To Rapidly Identify Socially Impaired Monkeys In The General Population. Autism Res 2020; 13:1465-1475. [PMID: 32677285 DOI: 10.1002/aur.2335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2020] [Revised: 04/29/2020] [Accepted: 05/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Naturally low-social rhesus macaques exhibit social impairments with direct relevance to autism spectrum disorder (ASD). To more efficiently identify low-social individuals in a large colony, we exploited, refined, and psychometrically assessed the macaque Social Responsiveness Scale (mSRS), an instrument previously derived from the human ASD screening tool. We performed quantitative social behavior assessments and mSRS ratings on a total of N = 349 rhesus macaques (Macaca mulatta) housed in large, outdoor corrals. In one cohort (N = 116), we conducted inter-rater and test-retest reliabilities, and in a second cohort (N = 233), we evaluated the convergent construct and predictive validity of the mSRS-Revised (mSRS-R). Only 17 of the original 36 items demonstrated inter-rater and test-retest reliability, resulting in the 17-item mSRS-R. The mSRS-R showed strong validity: mSRS-R scores robustly predicted monkeys' social behavior frequencies in home corrals. Monkeys that scored 1.5 standard deviations from the mean on nonsocial behavior likewise exhibited significantly more autistic-like traits, and mSRS-R scores predicted individuals' social classification (low-social vs. high-social) with 96% accuracy (likelihood ratio chi-square = 25.07; P < 0.0001). These findings indicate that the mSRS-R is a reliable, valid, and sensitive measure of social functioning, and like the human SRS, can be used as a high-throughput screening tool to identify socially impaired individuals in the general population. LAY SUMMARY: Variation in autistic traits can be measured in humans using the Social Responsiveness Scale (SRS). Here, we revised this scale for rhesus macaques (i.e., the mSRS-R), and showed that macaques exhibit individual differences in mSRS-R scores, and at the behavioral extremes, low-social vs. high-social monkeys exhibit more autistic-like traits. These results suggest that the mSRS-R can be used as a screening tool to rapidly and accurately identify low-social monkeys in the general population. Autism Res 2020, 13: 1465-1475. © 2020 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Catherine F Talbot
- California National Primate Research Center, University of California, Davis, Davis, California, USA
| | - Joseph P Garner
- Department of Comparative Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Alyssa C Maness
- California National Primate Research Center, University of California, Davis, Davis, California, USA
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Davis, Davis, California, USA
| | - Brenda McCowan
- California National Primate Research Center, University of California, Davis, Davis, California, USA
- Animal Behavior Graduate Group, University of California, Davis, Davis, California, USA
- Department of Population Health and Reproduction, University of California, Davis, Davis, California, USA
| | - John P Capitanio
- California National Primate Research Center, University of California, Davis, Davis, California, USA
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Davis, Davis, California, USA
| | - Karen J Parker
- California National Primate Research Center, University of California, Davis, Davis, California, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Bogue MA, Philip VM, Walton DO, Grubb SC, Dunn MH, Kolishovski G, Emerson J, Mukherjee G, Stearns T, He H, Sinha V, Kadakkuzha B, Kunde-Ramamoorthy G, Chesler EJ. Mouse Phenome Database: a data repository and analysis suite for curated primary mouse phenotype data. Nucleic Acids Res 2020; 48:D716-D723. [PMID: 31696236 PMCID: PMC7145612 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkz1032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2019] [Revised: 10/18/2019] [Accepted: 10/21/2019] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The Mouse Phenome Database (MPD; https://phenome.jax.org) is a widely accessed and highly functional data repository housing primary phenotype data for the laboratory mouse accessible via APIs and providing tools to analyze and visualize those data. Data come from investigators around the world and represent a broad scope of phenotyping endpoints and disease-related traits in naïve mice and those exposed to drugs, environmental agents or other treatments. MPD houses rigorously curated per-animal data with detailed protocols. Public ontologies and controlled vocabularies are used for annotation. In addition to phenotype tools, genetic analysis tools enable users to integrate and interpret genome–phenome relations across the database. Strain types and populations include inbred, recombinant inbred, F1 hybrid, transgenic, targeted mutants, chromosome substitution, Collaborative Cross, Diversity Outbred and other mapping populations. Our new analysis tools allow users to apply selected data in an integrated fashion to address problems in trait associations, reproducibility, polygenic syndrome model selection and multi-trait modeling. As we refine these tools and approaches, we will continue to provide users a means to identify consistent, quality studies that have high translational relevance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Molly A Bogue
- The Jackson Laboratory, Bar Harbor, Maine, ME 04609, USA
| | - Vivek M Philip
- The Jackson Laboratory, Bar Harbor, Maine, ME 04609, USA
| | - David O Walton
- The Jackson Laboratory, Bar Harbor, Maine, ME 04609, USA
| | | | - Matthew H Dunn
- The Jackson Laboratory, Bar Harbor, Maine, ME 04609, USA
| | | | - Jake Emerson
- The Jackson Laboratory, Bar Harbor, Maine, ME 04609, USA
| | | | | | - Hao He
- The Jackson Laboratory, Bar Harbor, Maine, ME 04609, USA
| | - Vinita Sinha
- The Jackson Laboratory, Bar Harbor, Maine, ME 04609, USA
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
14
|
Honey bee survival mechanisms against the parasite Varroa destructor: a systematic review of phenotypic and genomic research efforts. Int J Parasitol 2020; 50:433-447. [PMID: 32380096 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2020.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2019] [Revised: 02/12/2020] [Accepted: 03/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The ectoparasitic mite Varroa destructor is the most significant pathological threat to the western honey bee, Apis mellifera, leading to the death of most colonies if left untreated. An alternative approach to chemical treatments is to selectively enhance heritable honey bee traits of resistance or tolerance to the mite through breeding programs, or select for naturally surviving untreated colonies. We conducted a literature review of all studies documenting traits of A. mellifera populations either selectively bred or naturally selected for resistance and tolerance to mite parasitism. This allowed us to conduct an analysis of the diversity, distribution and importance of the traits in different honey bee populations that can survive V. destructor globally. In a second analysis, we investigated the genetic bases of these different phenotypes by comparing 'omics studies (genomics, transcriptomics, and proteomics) of A. mellifera resistance and tolerance to the parasite. Altogether, this review provides a detailed overview of the current state of the research projects and breeding efforts against the most devastating parasite of A. mellifera. By highlighting the most promising traits of Varroa-surviving bees and our current knowledge on their genetic bases, this work will help direct future research efforts and selection programs to control this pest. Additionally, by comparing the diverse populations of honey bees that exhibit those traits, this review highlights the consequences of anthropogenic and natural selection in the interactions between hosts and parasites.
Collapse
|
15
|
Fewou SN, Röckle I, Hildebrandt H, Eckhardt M. Transgenic overexpression of polysialyltransferase ST8SiaIV under the control of a neuron-specific promoter does not affect brain development but impairs exploratory behavior. Glycobiology 2019; 29:657-668. [PMID: 31147692 PMCID: PMC6704368 DOI: 10.1093/glycob/cwz040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2019] [Revised: 05/15/2019] [Accepted: 05/21/2019] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
A large body of the literature has demonstrated that the polysialic acid (polySia) modification of the neural cell adhesion molecule (NCAM) is a key regulator of cellular interactions during brain development, maintenance and plasticity. To properly fulfill these functions, polySia concentration has to be carefully controlled. This is done by the regulation of the expression of the two polySia-synthesizing enzymes ST8SiaII and ST8SiaIV. From this point of view we and others have demonstrated that downregulation of ST8SiaIV during oligodendrocyte differentiation is a prerequisite for efficient myelin formation and maintenance. Here, we addressed the question whether the prevention of polySia downregulation in neurons affects brain and particularly myelin development and functioning. For this purpose, we developed transgenic (tg) mouse lines overexpressing the polysialyltransferase ST8SiaIV in neurons. tg expression of ST8SiaIV prevented the postnatal downregulation of polySia, and most of the polySias in the forebrain and brain stem of adult tg mice were associated with NCAM-140 and NCAM-180 isoforms. Structural examination of the brain revealed no overt abnormalities of axons and myelin. In addition, ultrastructural and western blot analyses indicated normal myelin development. However, behavioral studies revealed reduced rearing activity, a measure for exploratory behavior, while parameters of motor activity were not affected in tg mice. Taken together, these results suggest that a persisting presence of polySia in neurons has no major effect on brain structure, myelination and myelin maintenance, but causes mild behavioral changes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Simon Ngamli Fewou
- Institut für Biochemie und Molekularbiologie, Universität Bonn, Bonn, Germany.,Institut für Klinische Biochemie, Medizinische Hochschule Hannover, Hannover, Germany.,Faculty of Health Sciences, Université des Montagnes, Bangangte, Cameroon
| | - Iris Röckle
- Institut für Klinische Biochemie, Medizinische Hochschule Hannover, Hannover, Germany
| | - Herbert Hildebrandt
- Institut für Klinische Biochemie, Medizinische Hochschule Hannover, Hannover, Germany
| | - Matthias Eckhardt
- Institut für Biochemie und Molekularbiologie, Universität Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Bogue MA, Grubb SC, Walton DO, Philip VM, Kolishovski G, Stearns T, Dunn MH, Skelly DA, Kadakkuzha B, TeHennepe G, Kunde-Ramamoorthy G, Chesler EJ. Mouse Phenome Database: an integrative database and analysis suite for curated empirical phenotype data from laboratory mice. Nucleic Acids Res 2019; 46:D843-D850. [PMID: 29136208 PMCID: PMC5753241 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkx1082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2017] [Accepted: 10/19/2017] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The Mouse Phenome Database (MPD; https://phenome.jax.org) is a widely used resource that provides access to primary experimental trait data, genotypic variation, protocols and analysis tools for mouse genetic studies. Data are contributed by investigators worldwide and represent a broad scope of phenotyping endpoints and disease-related traits in naïve mice and those exposed to drugs, environmental agents or other treatments. MPD houses individual animal data with detailed, searchable protocols, and makes these data available to other resources via API. MPD provides rigorous curation of experimental data and supporting documentation using relevant ontologies and controlled vocabularies. Most data in MPD are from inbreds and other reproducible strains such that the data are cumulative over time and across laboratories. The resource has been expanded to include the QTL Archive and other primary phenotype data from mapping crosses as well as advanced high-diversity mouse populations including the Collaborative Cross and Diversity Outbred mice. Furthermore, MPD provides a means of assessing replicability and reproducibility across experimental conditions and protocols, benchmarking assays in users’ own laboratories, identifying sensitized backgrounds for making new mouse models with genome editing technologies, analyzing trait co-inheritance, finding the common genetic basis for multiple traits and assessing sex differences and sex-by-genotype interactions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Molly A Bogue
- The Jackson Laboratory, Bar Harbor, Maine 04609, USA
| | | | | | | | | | - Tim Stearns
- The Jackson Laboratory, Bar Harbor, Maine 04609, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
17
|
Headley DB, Kanta V, Kyriazi P, Paré D. Embracing Complexity in Defensive Networks. Neuron 2019; 103:189-201. [PMID: 31319049 PMCID: PMC6641575 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2019.05.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2019] [Revised: 05/13/2019] [Accepted: 05/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The neural basis of defensive behaviors continues to attract much interest, not only because they are important for survival but also because their dysregulation may be at the origin of anxiety disorders. Recently, a dominant approach in the field has been the optogenetic manipulation of specific circuits or cell types within these circuits to dissect their role in different defensive behaviors. While the usefulness of optogenetics is unquestionable, we argue that this method, as currently applied, fosters an atomistic conceptualization of defensive behaviors, which hinders progress in understanding the integrated responses of nervous systems to threats. Instead, we advocate for a holistic approach to the problem, including observational study of natural behaviors and their neuronal correlates at multiple sites, coupled to the use of optogenetics, not to globally turn on or off neurons of interest, but to manipulate specific activity patterns hypothesized to regulate defensive behaviors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Drew B Headley
- Center for Molecular & Behavioral Neuroscience, Rutgers University - Newark, 197 University Avenue, Newark, NJ 07102, USA
| | - Vasiliki Kanta
- Center for Molecular & Behavioral Neuroscience, Rutgers University - Newark, 197 University Avenue, Newark, NJ 07102, USA; Behavioral and Neural Sciences Graduate Program, Rutgers University - Newark, 197 University Avenue, Newark, NJ 07102, USA
| | - Pinelopi Kyriazi
- Center for Molecular & Behavioral Neuroscience, Rutgers University - Newark, 197 University Avenue, Newark, NJ 07102, USA; Behavioral and Neural Sciences Graduate Program, Rutgers University - Newark, 197 University Avenue, Newark, NJ 07102, USA
| | - Denis Paré
- Center for Molecular & Behavioral Neuroscience, Rutgers University - Newark, 197 University Avenue, Newark, NJ 07102, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Abstract
Whenever an experiment yields a statistically significant outcome you should ask yourself: To what extent can I trust this result? This is especially important for pre-clinical drug studies because of the frequent failures of phase III clinical trials of neurological diseases, which has put the reliability of pre-clinical research into question. Two important factors, the pre-study likelihood of treatment benefit, and statistical power, affects the reliability of the result in a quantifiable way. This can be used to assess to what extent the result of a study can be trusted (discovery reliability), and to guide the design of pre-clinical research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anders Hånell
- Department of Neuroscience, The Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
|
20
|
Lundberg S, Högman C, Roman E. Adolescent Exploratory Strategies and Behavioral Types in the Multivariate Concentric Square Field TM Test. Front Behav Neurosci 2019; 13:41. [PMID: 30886574 PMCID: PMC6409336 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2019.00041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2018] [Accepted: 02/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Adolescence is an important developmental phase with extensive changes in behavior due to remodeling of the brain and hormonal systems. Validation of animal behavioral tests in this age group is therefore of importance as differences to adult behavior are often not clarified. The aim of the present study was to investigate adolescent behavior in the multivariate concentric square fieldTM (MCSF) test and its relationship to other common behavioral tests as well as to a literature dataset of adult animals. Sixty adolescent male Wistar rats were tested in the MCSF and one of four reference tests; the elevated plus maze, the open field with or without start box, or the social play behavior test. Additionally, 12 animals were tested twice in the MCSF. When analyzing the first encounter with the MCSF test, a distinct grouping of the individuals into three behavioral types was observed. Approximately 20% of the animals had high levels of activity and an additional 20% had high levels of shelter seeking-behavior, these groups composed the outlying behavioral types named Explorers and Shelter seekers, respectively, which were distinct from the Main type of animals. When tested in the MCSF for a second time, the adolescent animals showed a recollection of the arena as they changed their behavior in relation to the first encounter. When comparing the MCSF performance to the reference tests, a relationship was found between the MCSF and the other behavioral test entailing forced exploration, while no relationship was found between the MCSF and social play. The adolescent behavioral profile was characterized by decreased risk assessment and a different activity profile than adults. In conclusion, the MCSF test is useful for profiling adolescent rats but the behavioral interpretation differs from that of adults due to differences in behavioral manifestation during adolescence and the presence of natural subgroups. Adolescent exploration shows a relationship across tests, but the MCSF gives more information than any of the other behavioral tests based on forced exploration. Further studies into the neurobiology behind the behavioral types and how different manipulations affect the distribution into the behavioral types are of interest.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stina Lundberg
- Neuropharmacology, Addiction and Behavior, Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Cecilia Högman
- Neuropharmacology, Addiction and Behavior, Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Erika Roman
- Neuropharmacology, Addiction and Behavior, Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Stukalin Y, Einat H. Analyzing test batteries in animal models of psychopathology with multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA): One possible approach to increase external validity. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2019; 178:51-55. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2017.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2017] [Revised: 10/22/2017] [Accepted: 11/27/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
|
22
|
Wexler Y, Benjamini Y, Golani I. Vertical exploration and dimensional modularity in mice. ROYAL SOCIETY OPEN SCIENCE 2018; 5:180069. [PMID: 29657827 PMCID: PMC5882751 DOI: 10.1098/rsos.180069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2018] [Accepted: 02/13/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Exploration is a central component of animal behaviour studied extensively in rodents. Previous tests of free exploration limited vertical movement to rearing and jumping. Here, we attach a wire mesh to the arena wall, allowing vertical exploration. This provides an opportunity to study the morphogenesis of behaviour along the vertical dimension, and examine the context in which it is performed. In the current set-up, the mice first use the doorway as a point reference for establishing a borderline linear path along the circumference of the arena floor, and then use this path as a linear reference for performing horizontal forays towards the centre (incursions) and vertical forays on the wire mesh (ascents). Vertical movement starts with rearing on the wall, and commences with straight vertical ascents that increase in extent and complexity. The mice first reach the top of the wall, then mill about within circumscribed horizontal sections, and then progress horizontally for increasingly longer distances on the upper edge of the wire mesh. Examination of the sequence of borderline segments, incursions and ascents reveals dimensional modularity: an initial series (bout) of borderline segments precedes alternating bouts of incursions and bouts of ascents, thus exhibiting sustained attention to each dimension separately. The exhibited separate growth in extent and in complexity of movement and the sustained attention to each of the three dimensions disclose the mice's modular perception of this environment and validate all three as natural kinds.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yair Wexler
- Department of Statistics and Operations Research, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Yoav Benjamini
- Department of Statistics and Operations Research, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Ilan Golani
- Department of Zoology, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Abstract
The need for high-throughput, precise, and meaningful methods for measuring behavior has been amplified by our recent successes in measuring and manipulating neural circuitry. The largest challenges associated with moving in this direction, however, are not technical but are instead conceptual: what numbers should one put on the movements an animal is performing (or not performing)? In this review, I will describe how theoretical and data analytical ideas are interfacing with recently-developed computational and experimental methodologies to answer these questions across a variety of contexts, length scales, and time scales. I will attempt to highlight commonalities between approaches and areas where further advances are necessary to place behavior on the same quantitative footing as other scientific fields.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gordon J Berman
- Department of Biology, Emory University, 1510 Clifton Road NE, Atlanta, 30322, GA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Heinla I, Åhlgren J, Vasar E, Voikar V. Behavioural characterization of C57BL/6N and BALB/c female mice in social home cage - Effect of mixed housing in complex environment. Physiol Behav 2018; 188:32-41. [PMID: 29382562 DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2018.01.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2017] [Revised: 01/22/2018] [Accepted: 01/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Developing reliable mouse models for social behaviour is challenging. Different tests have been proposed, but most of them consist of rather artificial confrontations of unfamiliar mice in novel arenas or are relying on social stress induced by aggressive conspecifics. Natural social interaction in home cage in laboratory has not been investigated well. IntelliCage is a fully automated home-cage system, where activity of the group-housed mice can be monitored along with various cognitive tasks. Here we report the behavioural profile of C57BL/6N (B6) and BALB/c (BALB) female mice in IntelliCage when separated by strain, followed by monitoring of activity and formation of 'home-base' after mixing two strains. For that purpose, 3 cages were connected. Significant differences between the strains were established in baseline behaviour in conventional tests and in IntelliCage. The B6 mice showed reduced anxiety-like behaviour in open field and light-dark box, slightly enhanced exploratory activity in IntelliCage during initial adaptation and clearly distinct circadian activity. Mixing of two strains resulted in reduction of body weight and anhedonia in B6 mice. In addition, the B6 mice showed clear preference to previous home-cage, and formed a new home-base faster than BALB mice. In contrast, BALB mice showed enhanced activity and moving between the cages without showing any preference to previous home-cage. It could be argued that social challenge caused changes in both strains and different coping styles are responsible for behavioural manifestations. Altogether, this approach could be useful in modelling and validating mouse models for disorders with disturbed social behaviour.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Indrek Heinla
- Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, Department of Physiology, University of Tartu, Estonia
| | - Johanna Åhlgren
- Laboratory Animal Center, HiLIFE, University of Helsinki, Finland
| | - Eero Vasar
- Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, Department of Physiology, University of Tartu, Estonia
| | - Vootele Voikar
- Laboratory Animal Center, HiLIFE, University of Helsinki, Finland; Neuroscience Center, HiLIFE, University of Helsinki, Finland.
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Kafkafi N, Agassi J, Chesler EJ, Crabbe JC, Crusio WE, Eilam D, Gerlai R, Golani I, Gomez-Marin A, Heller R, Iraqi F, Jaljuli I, Karp NA, Morgan H, Nicholson G, Pfaff DW, Richter SH, Stark PB, Stiedl O, Stodden V, Tarantino LM, Tucci V, Valdar W, Williams RW, Würbel H, Benjamini Y. Reproducibility and replicability of rodent phenotyping in preclinical studies. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2018; 87:218-232. [PMID: 29357292 PMCID: PMC6071910 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2018.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 112] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2016] [Revised: 12/13/2017] [Accepted: 01/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The scientific community is increasingly concerned with the proportion of
published “discoveries” that are not replicated in subsequent
studies. The field of rodent behavioral phenotyping was one of the first to
raise this concern, and to relate it to other methodological issues: the complex
interaction between genotype and environment; the definitions of behavioral
constructs; and the use of laboratory mice and rats as model species for
investigating human health and disease mechanisms. In January 2015, researchers
from various disciplines gathered at Tel Aviv University to discuss these
issues. The general consensus was that the issue is prevalent and of concern,
and should be addressed at the statistical, methodological and policy levels,
but is not so severe as to call into question the validity and the usefulness of
model organisms as a whole. Well-organized community efforts, coupled with
improved data and metadata sharing, have a key role in identifying specific
problems and promoting effective solutions. Replicability is closely related to
validity, may affect generalizability and translation of findings, and has
important ethical implications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - John C Crabbe
- Oregon Health & Science University, and VA Portland Health Care System, United States
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Natasha A Karp
- Discovery Sciences, IMED Biotech Unit, AstraZeneca, Cambridge, UK
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - William Valdar
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, United States
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
26
|
Kara NZ, Stukalin Y, Einat H. Revisiting the validity of the mouse forced swim test: Systematic review and meta-analysis of the effects of prototypic antidepressants. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2017; 84:1-11. [PMID: 29128579 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2017.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2017] [Revised: 11/01/2017] [Accepted: 11/01/2017] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
One problem area regarding animal models for affective disorders is unclear reproducibility, including external validity or generalizability. One way to evaluate external validity is with systematic reviews and meta-analyses. The current study presents a meta-analysis of the effects of prototypic antidepressants in the mouse forced swim test (FST). We identified studies that examined effects of antidepressants in the FST in mice and used standard protocol, male mice and acute drug administration. We calculated Effect sizes using Cohen's d, homogeneity using Q statistic and correlations using Pearson's correlation. Results indicate that all drugs reduce immobility in the FST. However, effect sizes for most drugs are heterogeneous and do not show a consistent dose/response relationship across variability factors. Reducing variability by examining only one strain or data from individual laboratories partially increases dose response relationship. These findings suggest that whereas the FST is a valid tool to qualitatively screen antidepressant effects its validity in the context of hierarchical comparison between doses or compounds might be relevant only to single experiments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- N Z Kara
- School of Behavioral Sciences, Tel Aviv-Yaffo Academic College, Israel; Department of Clinical Biochemistry and Pharmacology, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Israel
| | - Y Stukalin
- School of Behavioral Sciences, Tel Aviv-Yaffo Academic College, Israel
| | - H Einat
- School of Behavioral Sciences, Tel Aviv-Yaffo Academic College, Israel; Department of Clinical Biochemistry and Pharmacology, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Israel; College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Tungtur SK, Nishimune N, Radel J, Nishimune H. Mouse Behavior Tracker: An economical method for tracking behavior in home cages. Biotechniques 2017; 63:215-220. [PMID: 29185921 PMCID: PMC5910027 DOI: 10.2144/000114607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2016] [Accepted: 10/06/2017] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Analysis of mouse behavior often requires expensive equipment and transfer of the mice to new test environments, which could trigger confounding behavior alterations. Here, we describe a system for tracking mouse behavior in home cages using a low-cost USB webcam and free software (Fiji and wrMTrck). We demonstrate the effectiveness of this method by tracking differences in distance traveled, speed, and movement tracks between wild-type mice and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) model mice (SOD1G93A).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sudheer K. Tungtur
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Kansas School of Medicine, Kansas City, KS, 66160, USA
| | - Natsuko Nishimune
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Kansas School of Medicine, Kansas City, KS, 66160, USA
| | - Jeff Radel
- Department of Occupational Therapy Education, University of Kansas School of Health Professions, Kansas City, KS, 66160, USA
| | - Hiroshi Nishimune
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Kansas School of Medicine, Kansas City, KS, 66160, USA
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Laugeray A, Herzine A, Perche O, Richard O, Montecot-Dubourg C, Menuet A, Mazaud-Guittot S, Lesné L, Jegou B, Mortaud S. In utero and lactational exposure to low-doses of the pyrethroid insecticide cypermethrin leads to neurodevelopmental defects in male mice-An ethological and transcriptomic study. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0184475. [PMID: 29020013 PMCID: PMC5636066 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0184475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2017] [Accepted: 08/19/2017] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Accumulating evidence suggests that developmental exposure to environmental chemicals may modify the course of brain development, ultimately leading to neuropsychiatric / neurodegenerative disorders later in life. In the present study, we assessed the impact of one of the most frequently used pesticides in both residential and agricultural applications − the synthetic pyrethroid cypermethrin (CYP) − on developmental neurotoxicity (DNT). Female mice were perinatally exposed to low doses of CYP (5 and 20 mg/kg body weight) from gestation to postnatal day 15. Behavioral analyses were performed during the offspring’s early life and during adulthood. Postnatal analyses revealed that perinatal exposure to CYP disturbed motor development without modifying sensory and communicative skills. We found that later in life, CYP-exposed offspring expressed maladaptive behaviors in response to highly challenging tasks and abnormal sociability. Transcriptomic analyses performed in the offspring’s brain at the end of the exposure, highlighted mitochondrial dysfunction as a relevant pathomechanism underlying CYP-induced DNT. Interestingly, several genes involved in proteostasis maintenance were also shown to be dysregulated suggesting that alterations in biogenesis, folding, trafficking and degradation of proteins may significantly contribute to CYP-related DNT. From a regulatory perspective, this study highlights that behavioral and transcriptomic analyses are complementary tools providing useful direction for better DNT characterization, and as such, should be used together more systematically.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anthony Laugeray
- Immunologie et Neurogénétique Expérimentales et Moléculaires – UMR7355 CNRS – Orléans, France
- * E-mail: (AL); (SM)
| | - Ameziane Herzine
- Immunologie et Neurogénétique Expérimentales et Moléculaires – UMR7355 CNRS – Orléans, France
| | - Olivier Perche
- Immunologie et Neurogénétique Expérimentales et Moléculaires – UMR7355 CNRS – Orléans, France
- Département de génétique, Center Hospitalier Régional, Orléans, France
| | - Olivier Richard
- Immunologie et Neurogénétique Expérimentales et Moléculaires – UMR7355 CNRS – Orléans, France
| | - Céline Montecot-Dubourg
- Immunologie et Neurogénétique Expérimentales et Moléculaires – UMR7355 CNRS – Orléans, France
| | - Arnaud Menuet
- Immunologie et Neurogénétique Expérimentales et Moléculaires – UMR7355 CNRS – Orléans, France
| | | | | | - Bernard Jegou
- IRSET INSERM U 1085, Université de Rennes I, Rennes, France
| | - Stéphane Mortaud
- Immunologie et Neurogénétique Expérimentales et Moléculaires – UMR7355 CNRS – Orléans, France
- * E-mail: (AL); (SM)
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Meehan TF, Conte N, West DB, Jacobsen JO, Mason J, Warren J, Chen CK, Tudose I, Relac M, Matthews P, Karp N, Santos L, Fiegel T, Ring N, Westerberg H, Greenaway S, Sneddon D, Morgan H, Codner GF, Stewart ME, Brown J, Horner N, Haendel M, Washington N, Mungall CJ, Reynolds CL, Gallegos J, Gailus-Durner V, Sorg T, Pavlovic G, Bower LR, Moore M, Morse I, Gao X, Tocchini-Valentini GP, Obata Y, Cho SY, Seong JK, Seavitt J, Beaudet AL, Dickinson ME, Herault Y, Wurst W, de Angelis MH, Lloyd KK, Flenniken AM, Nutter LMJ, Newbigging S, McKerlie C, Justice MJ, Murray SA, Svenson KL, Braun RE, White JK, Bradley A, Flicek P, Wells S, Skarnes WC, Adams DJ, Parkinson H, Mallon AM, Brown SD, Smedley D. Disease model discovery from 3,328 gene knockouts by The International Mouse Phenotyping Consortium. Nat Genet 2017; 49:1231-1238. [PMID: 28650483 PMCID: PMC5546242 DOI: 10.1038/ng.3901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 163] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2016] [Accepted: 05/25/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Although next-generation sequencing has revolutionized the ability to associate variants with human diseases, diagnostic rates and development of new therapies are still limited by a lack of knowledge of the functions and pathobiological mechanisms of most genes. To address this challenge, the International Mouse Phenotyping Consortium is creating a genome- and phenome-wide catalog of gene function by characterizing new knockout-mouse strains across diverse biological systems through a broad set of standardized phenotyping tests. All mice will be readily available to the biomedical community. Analyzing the first 3,328 genes identified models for 360 diseases, including the first models, to our knowledge, for type C Bernard-Soulier, Bardet-Biedl-5 and Gordon Holmes syndromes. 90% of our phenotype annotations were novel, providing functional evidence for 1,092 genes and candidates in genetically uncharacterized diseases including arrhythmogenic right ventricular dysplasia 3. Finally, we describe our role in variant functional validation with The 100,000 Genomes Project and others.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Terrence F. Meehan
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory, European Bioinformatics Institute, Wellcome Trust Genome Campus, Hinxton, Cambridge CB10 1SD, UK
| | - Nathalie Conte
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory, European Bioinformatics Institute, Wellcome Trust Genome Campus, Hinxton, Cambridge CB10 1SD, UK
| | - David B. West
- Children’s Hospital Oakland Research Institute, Oakland, California 94609, USA
| | - Julius O. Jacobsen
- William Harvey Research Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, E1 4NS, UK
| | - Jeremy Mason
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory, European Bioinformatics Institute, Wellcome Trust Genome Campus, Hinxton, Cambridge CB10 1SD, UK
| | - Jonathan Warren
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory, European Bioinformatics Institute, Wellcome Trust Genome Campus, Hinxton, Cambridge CB10 1SD, UK
| | - Chao-Kung Chen
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory, European Bioinformatics Institute, Wellcome Trust Genome Campus, Hinxton, Cambridge CB10 1SD, UK
| | - Ilinca Tudose
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory, European Bioinformatics Institute, Wellcome Trust Genome Campus, Hinxton, Cambridge CB10 1SD, UK
| | - Mike Relac
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory, European Bioinformatics Institute, Wellcome Trust Genome Campus, Hinxton, Cambridge CB10 1SD, UK
| | - Peter Matthews
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory, European Bioinformatics Institute, Wellcome Trust Genome Campus, Hinxton, Cambridge CB10 1SD, UK
| | - Natasha Karp
- The Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Wellcome Trust Genome Campus, Hinxton, Cambridge CB10 1SA, UK
| | - Luis Santos
- Medical Research Council Harwell (Mammalian Genetics Unit and Mary Lyon Centre), Harwell, Oxfordshire OX11 0RD, UK
| | - Tanja Fiegel
- Medical Research Council Harwell (Mammalian Genetics Unit and Mary Lyon Centre), Harwell, Oxfordshire OX11 0RD, UK
| | - Natalie Ring
- Medical Research Council Harwell (Mammalian Genetics Unit and Mary Lyon Centre), Harwell, Oxfordshire OX11 0RD, UK
| | - Henrik Westerberg
- Medical Research Council Harwell (Mammalian Genetics Unit and Mary Lyon Centre), Harwell, Oxfordshire OX11 0RD, UK
| | - Simon Greenaway
- Medical Research Council Harwell (Mammalian Genetics Unit and Mary Lyon Centre), Harwell, Oxfordshire OX11 0RD, UK
| | - Duncan Sneddon
- Medical Research Council Harwell (Mammalian Genetics Unit and Mary Lyon Centre), Harwell, Oxfordshire OX11 0RD, UK
| | - Hugh Morgan
- Medical Research Council Harwell (Mammalian Genetics Unit and Mary Lyon Centre), Harwell, Oxfordshire OX11 0RD, UK
| | - Gemma F Codner
- Medical Research Council Harwell (Mammalian Genetics Unit and Mary Lyon Centre), Harwell, Oxfordshire OX11 0RD, UK
| | - Michelle E Stewart
- Medical Research Council Harwell (Mammalian Genetics Unit and Mary Lyon Centre), Harwell, Oxfordshire OX11 0RD, UK
| | - James Brown
- Medical Research Council Harwell (Mammalian Genetics Unit and Mary Lyon Centre), Harwell, Oxfordshire OX11 0RD, UK
| | - Neil Horner
- Medical Research Council Harwell (Mammalian Genetics Unit and Mary Lyon Centre), Harwell, Oxfordshire OX11 0RD, UK
| | | | - Melissa Haendel
- Department of Medical Informatics and Clinical Epidemiology and OHSU Library, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, 97239, USA
| | - Nicole Washington
- Division of Environmental Genomics and Systems Biology, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA
| | - Christopher J. Mungall
- Division of Environmental Genomics and Systems Biology, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA
| | - Corey L Reynolds
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
| | - Juan Gallegos
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
| | - Valerie Gailus-Durner
- Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Institute of Experimental Genetics, Neuherberg 85764, Germany
| | - Tania Sorg
- CELPHEDIA, PHENOMIN, Institut Clinique de la Souris (ICS), 1 rue Laurent Fries, F-67404 Illkirch-Graffenstaden, France
- Institut de Génétique et de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire (IGBMC), Université de Strasbourg, Illkirch, France
- Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, UMR7104, Illkirch, France
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, U964, Illkirch, France
| | - Guillaume Pavlovic
- CELPHEDIA, PHENOMIN, Institut Clinique de la Souris (ICS), 1 rue Laurent Fries, F-67404 Illkirch-Graffenstaden, France
- Institut de Génétique et de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire (IGBMC), Université de Strasbourg, Illkirch, France
- Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, UMR7104, Illkirch, France
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, U964, Illkirch, France
| | - Lynette R Bower
- Mouse Biology Program, University of California, Davis, California 95618, USA
| | - Mark Moore
- IMPC, San Anselmo, California 94960, USA
| | - Iva Morse
- Charles River Laboratories, Wilmington, Massachusetts 01887, USA
| | - Xiang Gao
- SKL of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology and Model Animal Research Center, Collaborative Innovation Center for Genetics and Development, Nanjing Biomedical Research Institute, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210061, China
| | - Glauco P Tocchini-Valentini
- Monterotondo Mouse Clinic, Italian National Research Council (CNR), Institute of Cell Biology and Neurobiology, Monterotondo Scalo I-00015, Italy
| | - Yuichi Obata
- RIKEN BioResource Center, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-0074, Japan
| | - Soo Young Cho
- Korea Mouse Phenotyping Center, 08826, Republic of Korea
- National Cancer Center, Goyang, Gyeonggi, 10408, Republic of Korea
| | - Je Kyung Seong
- Korea Mouse Phenotyping Center, 08826, Republic of Korea
- Research Institute for Veterinary Science, Seoul National University, Republic of Korea
| | - John Seavitt
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
| | - Arthur L. Beaudet
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
| | - Mary E. Dickinson
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
| | - Yann Herault
- CELPHEDIA, PHENOMIN, Institut Clinique de la Souris (ICS), 1 rue Laurent Fries, F-67404 Illkirch-Graffenstaden, France
- Institut de Génétique et de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire (IGBMC), Université de Strasbourg, Illkirch, France
- Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, UMR7104, Illkirch, France
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, U964, Illkirch, France
| | - Wolfgang Wurst
- Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Institute of Experimental Genetics, Neuherberg 85764, Germany
| | - Martin Hrabe de Angelis
- Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Institute of Experimental Genetics, Neuherberg 85764, Germany
| | - K.C. Kent Lloyd
- Mouse Biology Program, University of California, Davis, California 95618, USA
| | - Ann M Flenniken
- The Centre for Phenogenomics, Toronto, Ontario M5T 3H7, Canada
| | | | | | - Colin McKerlie
- The Centre for Phenogenomics, Toronto, Ontario M5T 3H7, Canada
| | - Monica J. Justice
- Mouse Imaging Centre, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario M5T 3H7, Canada
| | | | | | | | - Jacqueline K. White
- The Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Wellcome Trust Genome Campus, Hinxton, Cambridge CB10 1SA, UK
| | - Allan Bradley
- The Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Wellcome Trust Genome Campus, Hinxton, Cambridge CB10 1SA, UK
| | - Paul Flicek
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory, European Bioinformatics Institute, Wellcome Trust Genome Campus, Hinxton, Cambridge CB10 1SD, UK
| | - Sara Wells
- Medical Research Council Harwell (Mammalian Genetics Unit and Mary Lyon Centre), Harwell, Oxfordshire OX11 0RD, UK
| | - William C. Skarnes
- The Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Wellcome Trust Genome Campus, Hinxton, Cambridge CB10 1SA, UK
| | - David J. Adams
- The Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Wellcome Trust Genome Campus, Hinxton, Cambridge CB10 1SA, UK
| | - Helen Parkinson
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory, European Bioinformatics Institute, Wellcome Trust Genome Campus, Hinxton, Cambridge CB10 1SD, UK
| | - Ann-Marie Mallon
- Medical Research Council Harwell (Mammalian Genetics Unit and Mary Lyon Centre), Harwell, Oxfordshire OX11 0RD, UK
| | - Steve D.M. Brown
- Medical Research Council Harwell (Mammalian Genetics Unit and Mary Lyon Centre), Harwell, Oxfordshire OX11 0RD, UK
| | - Damian Smedley
- William Harvey Research Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, E1 4NS, UK
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Zilkha N, Scott N, Kimchi T. Sexual Dimorphism of Parental Care: From Genes to Behavior. Annu Rev Neurosci 2017; 40:273-305. [DOI: 10.1146/annurev-neuro-072116-031447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Noga Zilkha
- Department of Neurobiology, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot 76100, Israel
| | - Niv Scott
- Department of Neurobiology, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot 76100, Israel
- Molecular and Cell Biology Laboratory, Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, California 92037
| | - Tali Kimchi
- Department of Neurobiology, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot 76100, Israel
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Harris AZ, Golder D, Likhtik E. Multisite Electrophysiology Recordings in Mice to Study Cross-Regional Communication During Anxiety. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2017; 80:8.40.1-8.40.21. [PMID: 28678397 DOI: 10.1002/cpns.32] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Recording neural activity in awake, freely moving mice is a powerful and flexible technique for dissecting the neural circuit mechanisms underlying pathological behavior. This unit describes protocols for designing a drive and recording single neurons and local field potentials during anxiety-related paradigms. We also include protocols for integrating pharmacologic and optogenetic means for circuit manipulations, which, when combined with electrophysiological recordings, demonstrate input-specific and cell-specific contributions to circuit-wide activity. We discuss the planning, execution, and troubleshooting of physiology experiments during anxiety-like behavior. © 2017 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Z Harris
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Medical Center, New York City, New York
| | - Danielle Golder
- Department of Biological Sciences, Hunter College, CUNY, New York City, New York
| | - Ekaterina Likhtik
- Department of Biological Sciences, Hunter College, CUNY, New York City, New York.,CUNY Neuroscience Collaborative, The Graduate Center, CUNY, New York City, New York
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Sequence analysis of chromosome 1 revealed different selection patterns between Chinese wild mice and laboratory strains. Mol Genet Genomics 2017. [PMID: 28631230 DOI: 10.1007/s00438-017-1335-z] [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: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Both natural and artificial selection play a critical role in animals' adaptation to the environment. Detection of the signature of selection in genomic regions can provide insights for understanding the function of specific phenotypes. It is generally assumed that laboratory mice may experience intense artificial selection while wild mice more natural selection. However, the differences of selection signature in the mouse genome and underlying genes between wild and laboratory mice remain unclear. In this study, we used two mouse populations: chromosome 1 (Chr 1) substitution lines (C1SLs) derived from Chinese wild mice and mouse genome project (MGP) sequenced inbred strains and two selection detection statistics: Fst and Tajima's D to identify the signature of selection footprint on Chr 1. For the differentiation between the C1SLs and MGP, 110 candidate selection regions containing 47 protein coding genes were detected. A total of 149 selection regions which encompass 7.215 Mb were identified in the C1SLs by Tajima's D approach. While for the MGP, we identified nearly twice selection regions (243) compared with the C1SLs which accounted for 13.27 Mb Chr 1 sequence. Through functional annotation, we identified several biological processes with significant enrichment including seven genes in the olfactory transduction pathway. In addition, we searched the phenotypes associated with the 47 candidate selection genes identified by Fst. These genes were involved in behavior, growth or body weight, mortality or aging, and immune systems which align well with the phenotypic differences between wild and laboratory mice. Therefore, the findings would be helpful for our understanding of the phenotypic differences between wild and laboratory mice and applications for using this new mouse resource (C1SLs) for further genetics studies.
Collapse
|
33
|
Ehret T, Torelli F, Klotz C, Pedersen AB, Seeber F. Translational Rodent Models for Research on Parasitic Protozoa-A Review of Confounders and Possibilities. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2017. [PMID: 28638807 PMCID: PMC5461347 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2017.00238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Rodents, in particular Mus musculus, have a long and invaluable history as models for human diseases in biomedical research, although their translational value has been challenged in a number of cases. We provide some examples in which rodents have been suboptimal as models for human biology and discuss confounders which influence experiments and may explain some of the misleading results. Infections of rodents with protozoan parasites are no exception in requiring close consideration upon model choice. We focus on the significant differences between inbred, outbred and wild animals, and the importance of factors such as microbiota, which are gaining attention as crucial variables in infection experiments. Frequently, mouse or rat models are chosen for convenience, e.g., availability in the institution rather than on an unbiased evaluation of whether they provide the answer to a given question. Apart from a general discussion on translational success or failure, we provide examples where infections with single-celled parasites in a chosen lab rodent gave contradictory or misleading results, and when possible discuss the reason for this. We present emerging alternatives to traditional rodent models, such as humanized mice and organoid primary cell cultures. So-called recombinant inbred strains such as the Collaborative Cross collection are also a potential solution for certain challenges. In addition, we emphasize the advantages of using wild rodents for certain immunological, ecological, and/or behavioral questions. The experimental challenges (e.g., availability of species-specific reagents) that come with the use of such non-model systems are also discussed. Our intention is to foster critical judgment of both traditional and newly available translational rodent models for research on parasitic protozoa that can complement the existing mouse and rat models.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Totta Ehret
- FG16 - Mycotic and Parasitic Agents and Mycobacteria, Robert Koch InstituteBerlin, Germany.,Department of Molecular Parasitology, Humboldt-Universität zu BerlinBerlin, Germany
| | - Francesca Torelli
- FG16 - Mycotic and Parasitic Agents and Mycobacteria, Robert Koch InstituteBerlin, Germany
| | - Christian Klotz
- FG16 - Mycotic and Parasitic Agents and Mycobacteria, Robert Koch InstituteBerlin, Germany
| | - Amy B Pedersen
- School of Biological Sciences, University of EdinburghEdinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Frank Seeber
- FG16 - Mycotic and Parasitic Agents and Mycobacteria, Robert Koch InstituteBerlin, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Social propinquity in rodents as measured by tube cooccupancy differs between inbred and outbred genotypes. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2017; 114:5515-5520. [PMID: 28484016 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1703477114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Existing assays of social interaction are suboptimal, and none measures propinquity, the tendency of rodents to maintain close physical proximity. These assays are ubiquitously performed using inbred mouse strains and mutations placed on inbred genetic backgrounds. We developed the automatable tube cooccupancy test (TCOT) based on propinquity, the tendency of freely mobile rodents to maintain close physical proximity, and assessed TCOT behavior on a variety of genotypes and social and environmental conditions. In outbred mice and rats, familiarity determined willingness to cooccupy the tube, with siblings and/or cagemates of both sexes exhibiting higher cooccupancy behavior than strangers. Subsequent testing using multiple genotypes revealed that inbred strain siblings do not cooccupy at higher rates than strangers, in marked contrast to both outbred and rederived wild mice. Mutant mouse strains with "autistic-like" phenotypes (Fmr1-/y and Eif4e Ser209Ala) displayed significantly decreased cooccupancy.
Collapse
|
35
|
Anderzhanova E, Kirmeier T, Wotjak CT. Animal models in psychiatric research: The RDoC system as a new framework for endophenotype-oriented translational neuroscience. Neurobiol Stress 2017; 7:47-56. [PMID: 28377991 PMCID: PMC5377486 DOI: 10.1016/j.ynstr.2017.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2016] [Revised: 02/14/2017] [Accepted: 03/20/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The recently proposed Research Domain Criteria (RDoC) system defines psychopathologies as phenomena of multilevel neurobiological existence and assigns them to 5 behavioural domains characterizing a brain in action. We performed an analysis on this contemporary concept of psychopathologies in respect to a brain phylogeny and biological substrates of psychiatric diseases. We found that the RDoC system uses biological determinism to explain the pathogenesis of distinct psychiatric symptoms and emphasises exploration of endophenotypes but not of complex diseases. Therefore, as a possible framework for experimental studies it allows one to evade a major challenge of translational studies of strict disease-to-model correspondence. The system conforms with the concept of a normality and pathology continuum, therefore, supports basic studies. The units of analysis of the RDoC system appear as a novel matrix for model validation. The general regulation and arousal, positive valence, negative valence, and social interactions behavioural domains of the RDoC system show basic construct, network, and phenomenological homologies between human and experimental animals. The nature and complexity of the cognitive behavioural domain of the RDoC system deserve further clarification. These homologies in the 4 domains justifies the validity, reliably and translatability of animal models appearing as endophenotypes of the negative and positive affect, social interaction and general regulation and arousal systems’ dysfunction. The RDoC system encourages endophenotype-oriented experimental studies in human and animals. The system conforms with the normality-pathology continuum concept. The RDoC system appears to be a suitable framework for basic research. Four RDoC domains show construct and phenomenological homology in human and animals. Endophenotype-based models of affective psychopathologies appear most reliable.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elmira Anderzhanova
- Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry, Department of Stress Neurobiology and Neurogenetics, Kraepelinstrasse 2, 80804 Munich, Germany; FSBI "Zakusov Institute of Pharmacology", Baltiyskaya street, 8, 125315, Moscow, Russia
| | | | - Carsten T Wotjak
- Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry, Department of Stress Neurobiology and Neurogenetics, Kraepelinstrasse 2, 80804 Munich, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Peters SM, Tuffnell JA, Pinter IJ, van der Harst JE, Spruijt BM. Short- and long-term behavioral analysis of social interaction, ultrasonic vocalizations and social motivation in a chronic phencyclidine model. Behav Brain Res 2017; 325:34-43. [PMID: 28235589 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2017.02.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2016] [Revised: 02/15/2017] [Accepted: 02/16/2017] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Phencyclidine (PCP) has been suggested to induce symptoms of schizophrenia. However, animal models using PCP administration have produced ambiguous results thus far. It seems that acute effects are similar to symptoms of schizophrenia, however, it is not clear if PCP can induce permanent behavioral changes that reflect schizophrenic-like symptoms. Therefore, we assessed the ability of chronic PCP administration (3mg/kg, 14 days) to induce short or long lasting behavioral changes in rats. Social behavior, including ultrasonic vocalizations and motivation for social contact were investigated at different time points, up to 29-36 days, after cessation of PCP treatment. During a social separation test, performed at 5 and 36 days, PCP treated rats spent less time near the divider that separates them from their familiar cage mate compared with saline (SAL) treated rats. Further, at short term, PCP was able to induce a decrease in social behavior. In contrast, at long-term, PCP treated animals spent more time in contact when exposed to an unfamiliar partner as compared to SAL treated rats. But, this difference was not observed when exposed to a familiar partner. We did not find any difference in ultrasonic vocalizations at all time points. The results of our study indicate that PCP is unable to induce overt long term deficits in social interaction behavior. Rather, it seems that PCP diminishes motivation for social contact. The long-term consequences of chronic PCP administration on social behavior in rodent models remain complex, and future studies addressing this are still needed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Suzanne M Peters
- Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, Padualaan 8, NL-3584 CH Utrecht, The Netherlands; Delta Phenomics B.V., Nistelrooisebaan 3, NL-5374 RE Schaijk, The Netherlands.
| | - Joe A Tuffnell
- Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, Padualaan 8, NL-3584 CH Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Ilona J Pinter
- Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, Padualaan 8, NL-3584 CH Utrecht, The Netherlands; Delta Phenomics B.V., Nistelrooisebaan 3, NL-5374 RE Schaijk, The Netherlands
| | - Johanneke E van der Harst
- Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, Padualaan 8, NL-3584 CH Utrecht, The Netherlands; Delta Phenomics B.V., Nistelrooisebaan 3, NL-5374 RE Schaijk, The Netherlands
| | - Berry M Spruijt
- Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, Padualaan 8, NL-3584 CH Utrecht, The Netherlands.
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Chakraborty N, Meyerhoff J, Jett M, Hammamieh R. Genome to Phenome: A Systems Biology Approach to PTSD Using an Animal Model. Methods Mol Biol 2017; 1598:117-154. [PMID: 28508360 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-6952-4_6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a debilitating illness that imposes significant emotional and financial burdens on military families. The understanding of PTSD etiology remains elusive; nonetheless, it is clear that PTSD is manifested by a cluster of symptoms including hyperarousal, reexperiencing of traumatic events, and avoidance of trauma reminders. With these characteristics in mind, several rodent models have been developed eliciting PTSD-like features. Animal models with social dimensions are of particular interest, since the social context plays a major role in the development and manifestation of PTSD.For civilians, a core trauma that elicits PTSD might be characterized by a singular life-threatening event such as a car accident. In contrast, among war veterans, PTSD might be triggered by repeated threats and a cumulative psychological burden that coalesced in the combat zone. In capturing this fundamental difference, the aggressor-exposed social stress (Agg-E SS) model imposes highly threatening conspecific trauma on naïve mice repeatedly and randomly.There is abundant evidence that suggests the potential role of genetic contributions to risk factors for PTSD. Specific observations include putatively heritable attributes of the disorder, the cited cases of atypical brain morphology, and the observed neuroendocrine shifts away from normative. Taken together, these features underscore the importance of multi-omics investigations to develop a comprehensive picture. More daunting will be the task of downstream analysis with integration of these heterogeneous genotypic and phenotypic data types to deliver putative clinical biomarkers. Researchers are advocating for a systems biology approach, which has demonstrated an increasingly robust potential for integrating multidisciplinary data. By applying a systems biology approach here, we have connected the tissue-specific molecular perturbations to the behaviors displayed by mice subjected to Agg-E SS. A molecular pattern that links the atypical fear plasticity to energy deficiency was thereby identified to be causally associated with many behavioral shifts and transformations.PTSD is a multifactorial illness sensitive to environmental influence. Accordingly, it is essential to employ the optimal animal model approximating the environmental condition that elicits PTSD-like symptoms. Integration of an optimal animal model with a systems biology approach can contribute to a more knowledge-driven and efficient next-generation care management system and, potentially, prevention of PTSD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nabarun Chakraborty
- Integrative Systems Biology, Geneva Foundation, USACEHR, 568 Doughten Drive, Fredrick, MD, 21702-5010, USA
| | - James Meyerhoff
- Integrative Systems Biology, Geneva Foundation, USACEHR, 568 Doughten Drive, Fredrick, MD, 21702-5010, USA
| | - Marti Jett
- Integrative Systems Biology, US Army Center for Environmental Health Research, USACEHR, 568 Doughten Drive, Frederick, MD, 21702-5010, USA
| | - Rasha Hammamieh
- Integrative Systems Biology, US Army Center for Environmental Health Research, USACEHR, 568 Doughten Drive, Frederick, MD, 21702-5010, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Cox DA, Gottschalk MG, Wesseling H, Ernst A, Cooper JD, Bahn S. Proteomic systems evaluation of the molecular validity of preclinical psychosis models compared to schizophrenia brain pathology. Schizophr Res 2016; 177:98-107. [PMID: 27335180 DOI: 10.1016/j.schres.2016.06.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2016] [Revised: 06/06/2016] [Accepted: 06/09/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Pharmacological and genetic rodent models of schizophrenia play an important role in the drug discovery pipeline, but quantifying the molecular similarity of such models with the underlying human pathophysiology has proved difficult. We developed a novel systems biology methodology for the direct comparison of anterior prefrontal cortex tissue from four established glutamatergic rodent models and schizophrenia patients, enabling the evaluation of which model displays the greatest similarity to schizophrenia across different pathophysiological characteristics of the disease. Liquid chromatography coupled tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MSE) proteomic profiling was applied comparing healthy and "disease state" in human post-mortem samples and rodent brain tissue samples derived from models based on acute and chronic phencyclidine (PCP) treatment, ketamine treatment or NMDA receptor knockdown. Protein-protein interaction networks were constructed from significant abundance changes and enrichment analyses enabled the identification of five functional domains of the disease such as "development and differentiation", which were represented across all four rodent models and were thus subsequently used for cross-species comparison. Kernel-based machine learning techniques quantified that the chronic PCP model represented schizophrenia brain changes most closely for four of these functional domains. This is the first study aiming to quantify which rodent model recapitulates the neuropathological features of schizophrenia most closely, providing an indication of face validity as well as potential guidance in the refinement of construct and predictive validity. The methodology and findings presented here support recent efforts to overcome translational hurdles of preclinical psychiatric research by associating functional dimensions of behaviour with distinct biological processes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David A Cox
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 1QT, United Kingdom
| | - Michael G Gottschalk
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 1QT, United Kingdom
| | - Hendrik Wesseling
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 1QT, United Kingdom
| | - Agnes Ernst
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 1QT, United Kingdom
| | - Jason D Cooper
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 1QT, United Kingdom
| | - Sabine Bahn
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 1QT, United Kingdom.
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Novel approach to automatically classify rat social behavior using a video tracking system. J Neurosci Methods 2016; 268:163-70. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jneumeth.2016.02.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2015] [Revised: 02/23/2016] [Accepted: 02/26/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
|
40
|
Affiliation(s)
- S.E. Roian Egnor
- Janelia Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Ashburn, Virginia 20147; ,
| | - Kristin Branson
- Janelia Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Ashburn, Virginia 20147; ,
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Henriques-Alves AM, Queiroz CM. Ethological Evaluation of the Effects of Social Defeat Stress in Mice: Beyond the Social Interaction Ratio. Front Behav Neurosci 2016; 9:364. [PMID: 26869895 PMCID: PMC4737906 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2015.00364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2015] [Accepted: 12/19/2015] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In rodents, repeated exposure to unavoidable aggression followed by sustained sensory treat can lead to prolonged social aversion. The chronic social defeat stress model explores that phenomenon and it has been used as an animal model for human depression. However, some authors have questioned whether confounding effects may arise as the model also boosts anxiety-related behaviors. Despite its wide acceptance, most studies extract limited information from the behavior of the defeated animal. Often, the normalized occupancy around the social stimulus, the interaction zone, is taken as an index of depression. We hypothesized that this parameter is insufficient to fully characterize the behavioral consequences of this form of stress. Using an ethological approach, we showed that repeated social defeat delayed the expression of social investigation in long (10 min) sessions of social interaction. Also, the incidence of defensive behaviors, including stretched-attend posture and high speed retreats, was significantly higher in defeated mice in comparison to controls. Interestingly, a subpopulation of defeated mice showed recurrent and non-habituating stretched-attend posture and persistent flights during the entire session. Two indexes were created based on defensive behaviors to show that only recurrent flights correlates with sucrose intake. Together, the present study corroborates the idea that this model of social stress can precipitate a myriad of behaviors not readily disentangled. We propose that long sessions (>150 s) and detailed ethological evaluation during social interaction tests are necessary to provide enough information to correctly classify defeated animals in terms of resilience and susceptibility to social defeat stress.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Claudio M Queiroz
- Brain Institute, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte Natal, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Haverroth GMB, Welang C, Mocelin RN, Postay D, Bertoncello KT, Franscescon F, Rosemberg DB, Dal Magro J, Dalla Corte CL. Copper acutely impairs behavioral function and muscle acetylcholinesterase activity in zebrafish (Danio rerio). ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2015; 122:440-447. [PMID: 26386335 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2015.09.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2015] [Revised: 08/25/2015] [Accepted: 09/08/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Copper is a heavy metal found at relatively high concentrations in surface waters around the world. Copper is a micronutrient at low concentrations and is essential to several organisms. At higher concentrations copper can become toxic, which reveal the importance of studying the toxic effects of this metal on the aquatic life. Thus, the objective of this study was to evaluate the toxic effects of copper on the behavior and biochemical parameters of zebrafish (Danio rerio). Zebrafish were exposed for 24h at a concentration of 0.006 mg/L Cu. After the exposure period, behavioral profile of animals was recorded through 6 min using two different apparatuses tests: the Novel Tank and the Light-Dark test. After behavioral testing, animals were euthanized with a solution of 250 mg/L of tricaine (MS-222). Brain, muscle, liver and gills were extracted for analysis of parameters related to oxidative stress and accumulation of copper in these tissues. Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity was determined in brain and muscle. Results showed acute exposure to copper induces significant changes in behavioral profile of zebrafish by changing locomotion and natural tendency to avoid brightly lit area. On the other hand, there were no significant effects on parameters related to oxidative stress. AChE activity decreased significantly in zebrafish muscle, but there were no significant changes in cerebral AChE activity. Copper levels in tissues did not increase significantly compared to the controls. Taken together, these results indicate that a low concentration of copper can acutely affect behavioral profile of adult zebrafish which could be partially related to an inhibition on muscle AChE activity. These results reinforce the need of additional tests to establishment of safe copper concentrations to aquatic organisms and the importance of behavioral parameters in ecotoxicological studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela M B Haverroth
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciências Ambientais, Área de Ciências Exatas e Ambientais, Universidade Comunitária da Região de Chapecó, Avenida Senador Atílio Fontana, 591E, 89809-000 Chapecó, SC, Brazil
| | - Chariane Welang
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciências Ambientais, Área de Ciências Exatas e Ambientais, Universidade Comunitária da Região de Chapecó, Avenida Senador Atílio Fontana, 591E, 89809-000 Chapecó, SC, Brazil
| | - Riciéri N Mocelin
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciências Ambientais, Área de Ciências Exatas e Ambientais, Universidade Comunitária da Região de Chapecó, Avenida Senador Atílio Fontana, 591E, 89809-000 Chapecó, SC, Brazil
| | - Daniela Postay
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciências Ambientais, Área de Ciências Exatas e Ambientais, Universidade Comunitária da Região de Chapecó, Avenida Senador Atílio Fontana, 591E, 89809-000 Chapecó, SC, Brazil
| | - Kanandra T Bertoncello
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciências Ambientais, Área de Ciências Exatas e Ambientais, Universidade Comunitária da Região de Chapecó, Avenida Senador Atílio Fontana, 591E, 89809-000 Chapecó, SC, Brazil
| | - Francini Franscescon
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciências Ambientais, Área de Ciências Exatas e Ambientais, Universidade Comunitária da Região de Chapecó, Avenida Senador Atílio Fontana, 591E, 89809-000 Chapecó, SC, Brazil
| | - Denis B Rosemberg
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciências Biológicas: Bioquímica Toxicológica, Departamento de Bioquímica e Biologia Molecular, Centro de Ciências Naturais e Exatas, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, Avenida Roraima, 1000, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil; The International Zebrafish Neuroscience Research Consortium (ZNRC), 309 Palmer Court, Slidell, LA 70458, USA
| | - Jacir Dal Magro
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciências Ambientais, Área de Ciências Exatas e Ambientais, Universidade Comunitária da Região de Chapecó, Avenida Senador Atílio Fontana, 591E, 89809-000 Chapecó, SC, Brazil
| | - Cristiane L Dalla Corte
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciências Ambientais, Área de Ciências Exatas e Ambientais, Universidade Comunitária da Região de Chapecó, Avenida Senador Atílio Fontana, 591E, 89809-000 Chapecó, SC, Brazil; Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciências Biológicas: Bioquímica Toxicológica, Departamento de Bioquímica e Biologia Molecular, Centro de Ciências Naturais e Exatas, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, Avenida Roraima, 1000, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil; Universidade Federal do Pampa, Campus Caçapava do Sul, Av. Pedro Anunciação, 111, Vila Batista, 96570-000 Caçapava do Sul, RS, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Conditional neuroligin-2 knockout in adult medial prefrontal cortex links chronic changes in synaptic inhibition to cognitive impairments. Mol Psychiatry 2015; 20:850-9. [PMID: 25824299 DOI: 10.1038/mp.2015.31] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2014] [Revised: 12/27/2014] [Accepted: 02/09/2015] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Abnormal activity in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) is consistently observed in neuropsychiatric disorders, but the mechanisms involved remain unclear. Chronic aberrant excitation and/or inhibition of mPFC neurons were proposed to cause cognitive impairments. However, direct evidence for this hypothesis is lacking because it is technically challenging to control synaptic properties in a chronic and locally restricted, yet specific, manner. Here, we generated conditional knockout (cKO) mice of neuroligin-2 (Nlgn2), a postsynaptic cell-adhesion molecule of inhibitory synapses linked to neuropsychiatric disorders. cKO of Nlgn2 in adult mPFC rendered Nlgn2 protein undetectable after already 2-3 weeks, but induced major reductions in synaptic inhibition after only 6-7 weeks, and caused parallel impairments in anxiety, fear memory and social interaction behaviors. Moreover, cKO of Nlgn2 severely impaired behavioral stimulation of immediate-early gene expression in the mPFC, suggesting that chronic reduction in synaptic inhibition uncoupled the mPFC from experience-dependent inputs. Our results indicate that Nlgn2 is required for continuous maintenance of inhibitory synapses in the adult mPFC, and that chronic impairment of local inhibition disengages the mPFC from its cognitive functions by partially uncoupling the mPFC from experience-induced inputs.
Collapse
|
44
|
Fernandes Y, Rampersad M, Gerlai AR. Impairment of social behaviour persists two years after embryonic alcohol exposure in zebrafish: A model of fetal alcohol spectrum disorders. Behav Brain Res 2015; 292:102-108. [PMID: 26097005 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2015.05.060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2015] [Revised: 05/23/2015] [Accepted: 05/29/2015] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Zebrafish naturally form social groups called shoals. Previously, we have shown that submerging zebrafish eggs into low concentrations of alcohol (0.00, 0.25, 0.50, 0.75 and 1.00 vol/vol% external bath concentration) during development (24h post-fertilization) for two hours resulted in impaired shoaling response in seven month old young adult zebrafish. Here we investigate whether this embryonic alcohol exposure induced behavioural deficit persists to older age. Zebrafish embryos were exposed either to fresh system water (control) or to 1% alcohol for two hours, 24h after fertilization, and were raised in a high-density tank system. Social behaviour was tested by presenting the experimental fish with a computer animated group of zebrafish images, while automated tracking software measured their behaviour. Control fish were found to respond strongly to animated conspecific images by reducing their distanceand remaining close to the images during image presentation, embryonic alcohol treated fish did not. Our results suggest that the impaired shoaling response of the alcohol exposed fish was not due to altered motor function or visual perception, but likely to a central nervous system alteration affecting social behaviour itself. We found the effects of embryonic alcohol exposure on social behaviour not to diminish with age, a result that demonstrates the deleterious and potentially life-long consequences of exposure to even small amount of alcohol during embryonic development in vertebrates.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - And Robert Gerlai
- Department of Psychology, University of Toronto.,Department of Cell and System Biology, University of Toronto
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Peters SM, Pothuizen HHJ, Spruijt BM. Ethological concepts enhance the translational value of animal models. Eur J Pharmacol 2015; 759:42-50. [PMID: 25823814 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2015.03.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2015] [Revised: 02/25/2015] [Accepted: 03/12/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The translational value of animal models is an issue of ongoing discussion. We argue that 'Refinement' of animal experiments is needed and this can be achieved by exploiting an ethological approach when setting up and conducting experiments. Ethology aims to assess the functional meaning of behavioral changes, due to experimental manipulation or treatment, in animal models. Although the use of ethological concepts is particularly important for studies involving the measurement of animal behavior (as is the case for most studies on neuro-psychiatric conditions), it will also substantially benefit other disciplines, such as those investigating the immune system or inflammatory response. Using an ethological approach also involves using more optimal testing conditions are employed that have a biological relevance to the animal. Moreover, using a more biological relevant analysis of the data will help to clarify the functional meaning of the modeled readout (e.g. whether it is psychopathological or adaptive in nature). We advocate for instance that more behavioral studies should use animals in group-housed conditions, including the recording of their ultrasonic vocalizations, because (1) social behavior is an essential feature of animal models for human 'social' psychopathologies, such as autism and schizophrenia, and (2) social conditions are indispensable conditions for appropriate behavioral studies in social species, such as the rat. Only when taking these elements into account, the validity of animal experiments and, thus, the translation value of animal models can be enhanced.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Suzanne M Peters
- Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, Padualaan 8, NL-3584 CH Utrecht, The Netherlands; Delta Phenomics B.V., Nistelrooisebaan 3, NL-5374 RE Schaijk, The Netherlands.
| | - Helen H J Pothuizen
- Delta Phenomics B.V., Nistelrooisebaan 3, NL-5374 RE Schaijk, The Netherlands
| | - Berry M Spruijt
- Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, Padualaan 8, NL-3584 CH Utrecht, The Netherlands.
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Stewart AM, Nguyen M, Poudel MK, Warnick JE, Echevarria DJ, Beaton EA, Song C, Kalueff AV. The failure of anxiolytic therapies in early clinical trials: what needs to be done. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2015; 24:543-56. [PMID: 25727478 DOI: 10.1517/13543784.2015.1019063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Anxiety spectrum disorders (ASDs) are highly prevalent psychiatric illnesses that affect millions of people worldwide. Strongly associated with stress, common ASDs include generalized anxiety disorder, panic, social anxiety, phobias and drug-abuse-related anxiety. In addition to ASDs, several other prevalent psychiatric illnesses represent trauma/stressor-related disorders, such as post-traumatic stress disorder and acute stress disorder. Anxiolytic drugs, commonly prescribed to treat ASDs and trauma/stressor-related disorders, form a highly heterogenous group, modulating multiple neurotransmitters and physiological mechanisms. However, overt individual differences in efficacy and the potential for serious side-effects (including addiction and drug interaction) indicate a need for further drug development. Yet, over the past 50 years, there has been relatively little progress in the development of novel anxiolytic medications, especially when promising candidate drugs often fail in early clinical trials. AREAS COVERED Herein, the authors present recommendations of the Task Force on Anxiolytic Drugs of the International Stress and Behavior Society on how to improve anxiolytic drug discovery. These recommendations cover a wide spectrum of aspects, ranging from methodological improvements to conceptual insights and innovation. EXPERT OPINION In order to improve the success of anxiolytic drugs in early clinical trials, the goals of preclinical trials may need to be adjusted from a clinical perspective and better synchronized with those of clinical studies. Indeed, it is important to realize that the strategic goals and approaches must be similar if we want to have a smoother transition between phases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Adam Michael Stewart
- ZENEREI Institute , 309 Palmer Court, Slidell, LA , USA +1 240 328 2275 ; +1 240 328 2275 ;
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
47
|
Stewart AM, Kalueff AV. Developing better and more valid animal models of brain disorders. Behav Brain Res 2015; 276:28-31. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2013.12.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2013] [Accepted: 12/18/2013] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
|
48
|
Hager T, Jansen RF, Pieneman AW, Manivannan SN, Golani I, van der Sluis S, Smit AB, Verhage M, Stiedl O. Display of individuality in avoidance behavior and risk assessment of inbred mice. Front Behav Neurosci 2014; 8:314. [PMID: 25278853 PMCID: PMC4165351 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2014.00314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2014] [Accepted: 08/26/2014] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Factors determining individuality are still poorly understood. Rodents are excellent model organisms to study individuality, due to a rich behavioral repertoire and the availability of well-characterized isogenic populations. However, most current behavioral assays for rodents have short test duration in novel test environments and require human interference, which introduce coercion, thereby limiting the assessment of naturally occurring individuality. Thus, we developed an automated behavior system to longitudinally monitor conditioned fear for assessing PTSD-like behavior in individual mice. The system consists of a safe home compartment connected to a risk-prone test compartment (TC). Entry and exploration of the TC is solely based on deliberate choice determined by individual fear responsiveness and fear extinction. In this novel ethological assay, C57BL/6J mice show homogeneous responses after shock exposure (innate fear), but striking variation in long-lasting fear responses based on avoidance and risk assessment (learned fear), including automated stretch-attend posture quantification. TC entry (retention) latencies after foot shock differed >24 h and the re-explored TC area differed >50% among inbred mice. Next, we compared two closely related C57BL/6 substrains. Despite substantial individual differences, previously observed higher fear of C57BL/6N vs. C57BL/6J mice was reconfirmed, whereas fear extinction was fast and did not differ. The observed variation in fear expression in isogenic mice suggests individual differences in coping style with PTSD-like avoidance. Investigating the assumed epigenetic mechanisms, with reduced interpretational ambiguity and enhanced translational value in this assay, may help improve understanding of personality type-dependent susceptibility and resilience to neuropsychiatric disorders such as PTSD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Torben Hager
- Sylics BV Amsterdam, Netherlands ; Department of Functional Genomics, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, VU University Amsterdam Amsterdam, Netherlands ; Department of Clinical Genetics, VU University Medical Center Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - René F Jansen
- Department of Functional Genomics, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, VU University Amsterdam Amsterdam, Netherlands ; Department of Molecular and Cellular Neurobiology, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, VU University Amsterdam Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Anton W Pieneman
- Department of Functional Genomics, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, VU University Amsterdam Amsterdam, Netherlands ; Department of Molecular and Cellular Neurobiology, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, VU University Amsterdam Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | | | - Ilan Golani
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Life Sciences and Sagol School for Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Sophie van der Sluis
- Department of Functional Genomics, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, VU University Amsterdam Amsterdam, Netherlands ; Department of Clinical Genetics, VU University Medical Center Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - August B Smit
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Neurobiology, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, VU University Amsterdam Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Matthijs Verhage
- Department of Functional Genomics, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, VU University Amsterdam Amsterdam, Netherlands ; Department of Clinical Genetics, VU University Medical Center Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Oliver Stiedl
- Department of Functional Genomics, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, VU University Amsterdam Amsterdam, Netherlands ; Department of Molecular and Cellular Neurobiology, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, VU University Amsterdam Amsterdam, Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Chalfin L, Dayan M, Levy DR, Austad SN, Miller RA, Iraqi FA, Dulac C, Kimchi T. Mapping ecologically relevant social behaviours by gene knockout in wild mice. Nat Commun 2014; 5:4569. [DOI: 10.1038/ncomms5569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2014] [Accepted: 07/01/2014] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
|
50
|
Hånell A, Marklund N. Structured evaluation of rodent behavioral tests used in drug discovery research. Front Behav Neurosci 2014; 8:252. [PMID: 25100962 PMCID: PMC4106406 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2014.00252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2014] [Accepted: 07/03/2014] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
A large variety of rodent behavioral tests are currently being used to evaluate traits such as sensory-motor function, social interactions, anxiety-like and depressive-like behavior, substance dependence and various forms of cognitive function. Most behavioral tests have an inherent complexity, and their use requires consideration of several aspects such as the source of motivation in the test, the interaction between experimenter and animal, sources of variability, the sensory modality required by the animal to solve the task as well as costs and required work effort. Of particular importance is a test’s validity because of its influence on the chance of successful translation of preclinical results to clinical settings. High validity may, however, have to be balanced against practical constraints and there are no behavioral tests with optimal characteristics. The design and development of new behavioral tests is therefore an ongoing effort and there are now well over one hundred tests described in the contemporary literature. Some of them are well established following extensive use, while others are novel and still unproven. The task of choosing a behavioral test for a particular project may therefore be daunting and the aim of the present review is to provide a structured way to evaluate rodent behavioral tests aimed at drug discovery research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anders Hånell
- Department of Neuroscience, Section for Neurosurgery, Uppsala University Uppsala, Sweden ; Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Niklas Marklund
- Department of Neuroscience, Section for Neurosurgery, Uppsala University Uppsala, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|