1
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Park I, Choi M, Kim J, Jang S, Kim D, Kim J, Choe Y, Geum D, Yu SW, Choi JW, Moon C, Choe HK, Son GH, Kim K. Role of the circadian nuclear receptor REV-ERBα in dorsal raphe serotonin synthesis in mood regulation. Commun Biol 2024; 7:998. [PMID: 39147805 PMCID: PMC11327353 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-024-06647-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/29/2024] [Indexed: 08/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Affective disorders are frequently associated with disrupted circadian rhythms. The existence of rhythmic secretion of central serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine, 5-HT) pattern has been reported; however, the functional mechanism underlying the circadian control of 5-HTergic mood regulation remains largely unknown. Here, we investigate the role of the circadian nuclear receptor REV-ERBα in regulating tryptophan hydroxylase 2 (Tph2), the rate-limiting enzyme of 5-HT synthesis. We demonstrate that the REV-ERBα expressed in dorsal raphe (DR) 5-HTergic neurons functionally competes with PET-1-a nuclear activator crucial for 5-HTergic neuron development. In mice, genetic ablation of DR 5-HTergic REV-ERBα increases Tph2 expression, leading to elevated DR 5-HT levels and reduced depression-like behaviors at dusk. Further, pharmacological manipulation of the mice DR REV-ERBα activity increases DR 5-HT levels and affects despair-related behaviors. Our findings provide valuable insights into the molecular and cellular link between the circadian rhythm and the mood-controlling DR 5-HTergic systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inah Park
- Department of Brain Sciences, Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology (DGIST), Daegu, 42988, Republic of Korea
- Convergence Research Advanced Centre for Olfaction, Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology (DGIST), Daegu, 42988, Republic of Korea
| | - Mijung Choi
- Department of Brain Sciences, Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology (DGIST), Daegu, 42988, Republic of Korea
- Convergence Research Advanced Centre for Olfaction, Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology (DGIST), Daegu, 42988, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeongah Kim
- Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Sangwon Jang
- Department of Brain Sciences, Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology (DGIST), Daegu, 42988, Republic of Korea
- Convergence Research Advanced Centre for Olfaction, Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology (DGIST), Daegu, 42988, Republic of Korea
| | - Doyeon Kim
- Program in Neurosciences & Mental Health, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, M5G 1X8, Canada
| | - Jihoon Kim
- Department of Brain Sciences, Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology (DGIST), Daegu, 42988, Republic of Korea
| | - Youngshik Choe
- Korea Brain Research Institute (KBRI), Daegu, 41062, Republic of Korea
| | - Dongho Geum
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Seong-Woon Yu
- Department of Brain Sciences, Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology (DGIST), Daegu, 42988, Republic of Korea
| | - Ji-Woong Choi
- Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology (DGIST), Daegu, 42988, Republic of Korea
| | - Cheil Moon
- Department of Brain Sciences, Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology (DGIST), Daegu, 42988, Republic of Korea
- Convergence Research Advanced Centre for Olfaction, Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology (DGIST), Daegu, 42988, Republic of Korea
| | - Han Kyoung Choe
- Department of Brain Sciences, Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology (DGIST), Daegu, 42988, Republic of Korea
- Convergence Research Advanced Centre for Olfaction, Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology (DGIST), Daegu, 42988, Republic of Korea
| | - Gi Hoon Son
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea
- Department of Legal Medicine, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyungjin Kim
- Department of Brain Sciences, Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology (DGIST), Daegu, 42988, Republic of Korea.
- Convergence Research Advanced Centre for Olfaction, Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology (DGIST), Daegu, 42988, Republic of Korea.
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2
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Cheng J, Chen L, Zheng YN, Liu J, Zhang L, Zhang XM, Huang L, Yuan QL. Disfunction of dorsal raphe nucleus-hippocampus serotonergic-HTR3 transmission results in anxiety phenotype of Neuroplastin 65-deficient mice. Acta Pharmacol Sin 2024; 45:1393-1405. [PMID: 38528118 PMCID: PMC11192762 DOI: 10.1038/s41401-024-01252-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Anxiety disorders are the most common psychiatric condition, but the etiology of anxiety disorders remains largely unclear. Our previous studies have shown that neuroplastin 65 deficiency (NP65-/-) mice exhibit abnormal social and mental behaviors and decreased expression of tryptophan hydroxylase 2 (TPH2) protein. However, whether a causal relationship between TPH2 reduction and anxiety disorders exists needs to be determined. In present study, we found that replenishment of TPH2 in dorsal raphe nucleus (DRN) enhanced 5-HT level in the hippocampus and alleviated anxiety-like behaviors. In addition, injection of AAV-NP65 in DRN significantly increased TPH2 expression in DRN and hippocampus, and reduced anxiety-like behaviors. Acute administration of exogenous 5-HT or HTR3 agonist SR57227A in hippocampus mitigated anxiety-like behaviors in NP65-/- mice. Moreover, replenishment of TPH2 in DRN partly repaired the impairment of long-term potentiation (LTP) maintenance in hippocampus of NP65-/- mice. Finally, we found that loss of NP65 lowered transcription factors Lmx1b expression in postnatal stage and replenishment of NP65 in DRN reversed the decrease in Lmx1b expression of NP65-/- mice. Together, our findings reveal that NP65 deficiency induces anxiety phenotype by downregulating DRN-hippocampus serotonergic-HTR3 transmission. These studies provide a novel and insightful view about NP65 function, suggesting an attractive potential target for treatment of anxiety disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Cheng
- Department of Neurology, Shanghai Tongji Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200065, China
- Department of Human Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200092, China
| | - Ling Chen
- Department of Neurology, Shanghai Tongji Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200065, China
- Department of Human Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200092, China
| | - Ya-Ni Zheng
- Department of Neurology, Shanghai Tongji Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200065, China
- Department of Human Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200092, China
| | - Juan Liu
- Chinese Institute for Brain Research, Beijing, 102206, China
| | - Lei Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Shanghai Tongji Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200065, China
- Department of Human Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200092, China
| | - Xiao-Ming Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Shanghai Tongji Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200065, China
- Department of Human Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200092, China
| | - Liang Huang
- Department of Neurology, Shanghai Tongji Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200065, China
- Department of Human Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200092, China
| | - Qiong-Lan Yuan
- Department of Neurology, Shanghai Tongji Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200065, China.
- Department of Human Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200092, China.
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3
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Montañana-Rosell R, Selvan R, Hernández-Varas P, Kaminski JM, Sidhu SK, Ahlmark DB, Kiehn O, Allodi I. Spinal inhibitory neurons degenerate before motor neurons and excitatory neurons in a mouse model of ALS. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2024; 10:eadk3229. [PMID: 38820149 PMCID: PMC11141618 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adk3229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/02/2024]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is characterized by the progressive loss of somatic motor neurons. A major focus has been directed to motor neuron intrinsic properties as a cause for degeneration, while less attention has been given to the contribution of spinal interneurons. In the present work, we applied multiplexing detection of transcripts and machine learning-based image analysis to investigate the fate of multiple spinal interneuron populations during ALS progression in the SOD1G93A mouse model. The analysis showed that spinal inhibitory interneurons are affected early in the disease, before motor neuron death, and are characterized by a slow progressive degeneration, while excitatory interneurons are affected later with a steep progression. Moreover, we report differential vulnerability within inhibitory and excitatory subpopulations. Our study reveals a strong interneuron involvement in ALS development with interneuron specific degeneration. These observations point to differential involvement of diverse spinal neuronal circuits that eventually may be determining motor neuron degeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Raghavendra Selvan
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Computer Science, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Pablo Hernández-Varas
- Core Facility for Integrated Microscopy, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jan M. Kaminski
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Computer Science, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Dana B. Ahlmark
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ole Kiehn
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ilary Allodi
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- School of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, UK
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4
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Kulatunga DCM, Ranaraja U, Kim EY, Kim RE, Kim DE, Ji KB, Kim MK. A novel APP splice variant-dependent marker system to precisely demarcate maturity in SH-SY5Y cell-derived neurons. Sci Rep 2024; 14:12113. [PMID: 38802572 PMCID: PMC11130256 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-63005-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
SH-SY5Y, a neuroblastoma cell line, can be converted into mature neuronal phenotypes, characterized by the expression of mature neuronal and neurotransmitter markers. However, the mature phenotypes described across multiple studies appear inconsistent. As this cell line expresses common neuronal markers after a simple induction, there is a high chance of misinterpreting its maturity. Therefore, sole reliance on common neuronal markers is presumably inadequate. The Alzheimer's disease (AD) central gene, amyloid precursor protein (APP), has shown contrasting transcript variant dynamics in various cell types. We differentiated SH-SY5Y cells into mature neuron-like cells using a concise protocol and observed the upregulation of total APP throughout differentiation. However, APP transcript variant-1 was upregulated only during the early to middle stages of differentiation and declined in later stages. We identified the maturity state where this post-transcriptional shift occurs, terming it "true maturity." At this stage, we observed a predominant expression of mature neuronal and cholinergic markers, along with a distinct APP variant pattern. Our findings emphasize the necessity of using a differentiation state-sensitive marker system to precisely characterize SH-SY5Y differentiation. Moreover, this study offers an APP-guided, alternative neuronal marker system to enhance the accuracy of the conventional markers.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Chanuka M Kulatunga
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Physiology, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Chungnam National University, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon, 34134, Republic of Korea
| | - Umanthi Ranaraja
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Physiology, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Chungnam National University, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon, 34134, Republic of Korea
| | | | | | - Dong Ern Kim
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Physiology, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Chungnam National University, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon, 34134, Republic of Korea
| | - Kuk Bin Ji
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Physiology, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Chungnam National University, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon, 34134, Republic of Korea
| | - Min Kyu Kim
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction and Physiology, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Chungnam National University, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon, 34134, Republic of Korea.
- MK Biotech Inc., Daejeon, Republic of Korea.
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5
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Lim J, Bang Y, Kim KM, Choi HJ. Differentiated HT22 cells as a novel model for in vitro screening of serotonin reuptake inhibitors. Front Pharmacol 2023; 13:1062650. [PMID: 36703746 PMCID: PMC9871236 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.1062650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The mouse hippocampal neuronal cell line HT22 is frequently used as an in vitro model to investigate the role of hippocampal cholinergic neurons in cognitive functions. HT22 cells are derived from hippocampal neuronal HT4 cells. However, whether these cells exhibit the serotonergic neuronal phenotype observed in mature hippocampal neurons has not been determined yet. In this present study, we examined whether the differentiation of HT22 cells enhances the serotonergic neuronal phenotype, and if so, whether it can be used for antidepressant screening. Our results show that differentiation of HT22 cells promoted neurite outgrowth and upregulation of N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor and choline acetyltransferase, which is similar to that observed in primary cultured hippocampal neurons. Furthermore, proteins required for serotonergic neurotransmission, such as tryptophan hydroxylase 2, serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine, 5-HT)1a receptor, and serotonin transporter (SERT), were significantly upregulated in differentiated HT22 cells. The transcription factor Pet-1 was upregulated during HT22 differentiation and was responsible for the regulation of the serotonergic neuronal phenotype. Differentiation also enhanced the functional serotonergic properties of HT22 cells, as evidenced by increase in intracellular 5-HT levels, serotonin transporter SERT glycosylation, and 5-HT reuptake activity. The sensitivity of 5-HT reuptake inhibition by venlafaxine in differentiated HT22 cells (IC50, 27.21 nM) was comparable to that in HEK293 cells overexpressing serotonin transporter SERT (IC50, 30.65 nM). These findings suggest that the differentiation of HT22 cells enhances their functional serotonergic properties, and these cells could be a potential in vitro system for assessing the efficacy of antidepressant 5-HT reuptake inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juhee Lim
- College of Pharmacy and Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, CHA University, Pocheon, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea,College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Woosuk University, Wanju, Jeollabuk-do, South Korea
| | - Yeojin Bang
- College of Pharmacy and Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, CHA University, Pocheon, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea
| | - Kyeong-Man Kim
- College of Pharmacy, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, South Korea
| | - Hyun Jin Choi
- College of Pharmacy and Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, CHA University, Pocheon, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea,*Correspondence: Hyun Jin Choi,
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6
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Li L, Wyler SC, León-Mercado LA, Xu B, Oh Y, Swati, Chen X, Wan R, Arnold AG, Jia L, Wang G, Nautiyal K, Hen R, Sohn JW, Liu C. Delineating a serotonin 1B receptor circuit for appetite suppression in mice. J Exp Med 2022; 219:213337. [PMID: 35796804 PMCID: PMC9270184 DOI: 10.1084/jem.20212307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2022] [Revised: 04/04/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Triptans are a class of commonly prescribed antimigraine drugs. Here, we report a previously unrecognized role for them to suppress appetite in mice. In particular, frovatriptan treatment reduces food intake and body weight in diet-induced obese mice. Moreover, the anorectic effect depends on the serotonin (5-HT) 1B receptor (Htr1b). By ablating Htr1b in four different brain regions, we demonstrate that Htr1b engages in spatiotemporally segregated neural pathways to regulate postnatal growth and food intake. Moreover, Htr1b in AgRP neurons in the arcuate nucleus of the hypothalamus (ARH) contributes to the hypophagic effects of HTR1B agonists. To further study the anorexigenic Htr1b circuit, we generated Htr1b-Cre mice. We find that ARH Htr1b neurons bidirectionally regulate food intake in vivo. Furthermore, single-nucleus RNA sequencing analyses revealed that Htr1b marks a subset of AgRP neurons. Finally, we used an intersectional approach to specifically target these neurons (Htr1bAgRP neurons). We show that they regulate food intake, in part, through a Htr1bAgRP→PVH circuit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Li
- The Hypothalamic Research Center, Department of Internal Medicine, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX
| | - Steven C. Wyler
- The Hypothalamic Research Center, Department of Internal Medicine, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX
| | - Luis A. León-Mercado
- The Hypothalamic Research Center, Department of Internal Medicine, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX
| | - Baijie Xu
- The Hypothalamic Research Center, Department of Internal Medicine, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX
| | - Youjin Oh
- Department of Biological Sciences, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Daejeon, Korea
| | - Swati
- The Hypothalamic Research Center, Department of Internal Medicine, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX
| | - Xiameng Chen
- The Hypothalamic Research Center, Department of Internal Medicine, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX
| | - Rong Wan
- The Hypothalamic Research Center, Department of Internal Medicine, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX
| | - Amanda G. Arnold
- The Hypothalamic Research Center, Department of Internal Medicine, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX
| | - Lin Jia
- Department of Biological Sciences, The University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, TX
| | - Guanlin Wang
- Centre for Computational Biology, Medical Research Council Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Katherine Nautiyal
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH
| | - René Hen
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University and Research Foundation for Mental Hygiene, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY,Department of Neuroscience, Columbia University, New York, NY,Department of Pharmacology, Columbia University, New York, NY
| | - Jong-Woo Sohn
- Department of Biological Sciences, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Daejeon, Korea,Jong-Woo Sohn:
| | - Chen Liu
- The Hypothalamic Research Center, Department of Internal Medicine, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX,Department of Neuroscience, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX,Peter O’Donnell Jr. Brain Institute, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX,Correspondence to Chen Liu:
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7
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Aydin B, Sierk M, Moreno-Estelles M, Tejavibulya L, Kumar N, Flames N, Mahony S, Mazzoni EO. Foxa2 and Pet1 Direct and Indirect Synergy Drive Serotonergic Neuronal Differentiation. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:903881. [PMID: 35801179 PMCID: PMC9254625 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.903881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2022] [Accepted: 05/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuronal programming by forced expression of transcription factors (TFs) holds promise for clinical applications of regenerative medicine. However, the mechanisms by which TFs coordinate their activities on the genome and control distinct neuronal fates remain obscure. Using direct neuronal programming of embryonic stem cells, we dissected the contribution of a series of TFs to specific neuronal regulatory programs. We deconstructed the Ascl1-Lmx1b-Foxa2-Pet1 TF combination that has been shown to generate serotonergic neurons and found that stepwise addition of TFs to Ascl1 canalizes the neuronal fate into a diffuse monoaminergic fate. The addition of pioneer factor Foxa2 represses Phox2b to induce serotonergic fate, similar to in vivo regulatory networks. Foxa2 and Pet1 appear to act synergistically to upregulate serotonergic fate. Foxa2 and Pet1 co-bind to a small fraction of genomic regions but mostly bind to different regulatory sites. In contrast to the combinatorial binding activities of other programming TFs, Pet1 does not strictly follow the Foxa2 pioneer. These findings highlight the challenges in formulating generalizable rules for describing the behavior of TF combinations that program distinct neuronal subtypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Begüm Aydin
- Department of Biology, New York University, New York City, NY, United States
| | - Michael Sierk
- Interdisciplinary Sciences Department, Saint Vincent College, Latrobe, PA, United States
| | - Mireia Moreno-Estelles
- Department of Biology, New York University, New York City, NY, United States
- Developmental Neurobiology Unit, Instituto de Biomedicina de Valencia IIBV-CSIC, Valencia, Spain
| | - Link Tejavibulya
- Department of Biology, New York University, New York City, NY, United States
| | - Nikathan Kumar
- Department of Biology, New York University, New York City, NY, United States
| | - Nuria Flames
- Developmental Neurobiology Unit, Instituto de Biomedicina de Valencia IIBV-CSIC, Valencia, Spain
- *Correspondence: Nuria Flames,
| | - Shaun Mahony
- Center for Eukaryotic Gene Regulation, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, United States
- Shaun Mahony,
| | - Esteban O. Mazzoni
- Department of Biology, New York University, New York City, NY, United States
- Esteban O. Mazzoni,
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8
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Laureano-Melo R, Dos-Santos RC, da Conceição RR, de Souza JS, da Silva Almeida C, Reis LC, Marinho BG, Giannocco G, Ahmed RG, da Silva Côrtes W. Neonatal D-fenfluramine treatment promotes long-term behavioral changes in adult mice. Int J Dev Neurosci 2022; 82:486-498. [PMID: 35718760 DOI: 10.1002/jdn.10204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2022] [Revised: 05/27/2022] [Accepted: 06/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Serotonin exerts a significant role in the mammalian central nervous system embryogenesis and brain ontogeny. Therefore, we investigate the effect of neonatal treatment of d-fenfluramine (d-FEN), a serotonin (5-HT) releaser, on the behavioral expression of adult male Swiss mice. For this purpose, we divided pregnant female Swiss mice into two groups (n = 6 each and ~35 g). Their offspring were treated with d-FEN (3 mg/kg, s.c.) from postnatal days (PND) 5 to 20. At PND 21, one male puppy of each litter was euthanized; the midbrain and the hippocampus were dissected for RNA analysis. At PND 70, the male offspring underwent a behavioral assessment in the open field, elevated plus-maze, light-dark box, tail suspension, and rotarod test. The programmed animals had a decrease in 5HT1a, serotonin transporter (SERT), and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) expression in the mesencephalic raphe region. Alternatively, there was a reduction only in the tryptophan hydroxylase (TPH2) and BDNF expression in the hippocampus. In the light-dark box test, offspring of the treated group had higher latency to light and less time on the light side than the control. Also, it was observed less time of immobility in the tail suspension test. We also observed low motor skill learning in the rotarod test. These findings suggest that programming with d-FEN during the neonatal period alters a mesencephalic and hippocampal serotonergic system, promoting anxiety, antidepressant behavior, low coordination, and motor learning in adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Laureano-Melo
- Multicenter and Regular Graduate Program in Physiological Sciences, Department of Physiological Sciences, Institute of Biology, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro, Seropedica, Brazil.,Behavioral Physiopharmacology Laboratory, Barra Mansa Center University, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Raoni Conceição Dos-Santos
- Multicenter and Regular Graduate Program in Physiological Sciences, Department of Physiological Sciences, Institute of Biology, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro, Seropedica, Brazil
| | - Rodrigo Rodrigues da Conceição
- Molecular and Translational Endocrinology Laboratory, Department of Medicine, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Janaina Sena de Souza
- Molecular and Translational Endocrinology Laboratory, Department of Medicine, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Claudio da Silva Almeida
- Multicenter and Regular Graduate Program in Physiological Sciences, Department of Physiological Sciences, Institute of Biology, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro, Seropedica, Brazil
| | - Luís Carlos Reis
- Multicenter and Regular Graduate Program in Physiological Sciences, Department of Physiological Sciences, Institute of Biology, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro, Seropedica, Brazil
| | - Bruno Guimarães Marinho
- Multicenter and Regular Graduate Program in Physiological Sciences, Department of Physiological Sciences, Institute of Biology, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro, Seropedica, Brazil
| | - Gisele Giannocco
- Molecular and Translational Endocrinology Laboratory, Department of Medicine, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ragab Gaber Ahmed
- Division of Anatomy and Embryology, Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef, Egypt
| | - Wellington da Silva Côrtes
- Multicenter and Regular Graduate Program in Physiological Sciences, Department of Physiological Sciences, Institute of Biology, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro, Seropedica, Brazil
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9
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Ma X, Zhang S, Qin S, Guo J, Yuan J, Qiang R, Zhou S, Cao W, Yang J, Ma F, Chai R. Transcriptomic and epigenomic analyses explore the potential role of H3K4me3 in neomycin-induced cochlear Lgr5+ progenitor cell regeneration of hair cells. Hum Cell 2022; 35:1030-1044. [DOI: 10.1007/s13577-022-00727-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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10
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Zhang XL, Spencer WC, Tabuchi N, Kitt MM, Deneris ES. Reorganization of postmitotic neuronal chromatin accessibility for maturation of serotonergic identity. eLife 2022; 11:e75970. [PMID: 35471146 PMCID: PMC9098219 DOI: 10.7554/elife.75970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Assembly of transcriptomes encoding unique neuronal identities requires selective accessibility of transcription factors to cis-regulatory sequences in nucleosome-embedded postmitotic chromatin. Yet, the mechanisms controlling postmitotic neuronal chromatin accessibility are poorly understood. Here, we show that unique distal enhancers define the Pet1 neuron lineage that generates serotonin (5-HT) neurons in mice. Heterogeneous single-cell chromatin landscapes are established early in postmitotic Pet1 neurons and reveal the putative regulatory programs driving Pet1 neuron subtype identities. Distal enhancer accessibility is highly dynamic as Pet1 neurons mature, suggesting the existence of regulatory factors that reorganize postmitotic neuronal chromatin. We find that Pet1 and Lmx1b control chromatin accessibility to select Pet1-lineage-specific enhancers for 5-HT neurotransmission. Additionally, these factors are required to maintain chromatin accessibility during early maturation suggesting that postmitotic neuronal open chromatin is unstable and requires continuous regulatory input. Together, our findings reveal postmitotic transcription factors that reorganize accessible chromatin for neuron specialization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinrui L Zhang
- Department of Neurosciences, Case Western Reserve UniversityClevelandUnited States
| | - William C Spencer
- Department of Neurosciences, Case Western Reserve UniversityClevelandUnited States
| | - Nobuko Tabuchi
- Department of Neurosciences, Case Western Reserve UniversityClevelandUnited States
| | - Meagan M Kitt
- Department of Neurosciences, Case Western Reserve UniversityClevelandUnited States
| | - Evan S Deneris
- Department of Neurosciences, Case Western Reserve UniversityClevelandUnited States
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11
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Kitt MM, Tabuchi N, Spencer WC, Robinson HL, Zhang XL, Eastman BA, Lobur KJ, Silver J, Mei L, Deneris ES. An adult-stage transcriptional program for survival of serotonergic connectivity. Cell Rep 2022; 39:110711. [PMID: 35443166 PMCID: PMC9109281 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2022.110711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Revised: 02/23/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurons must function for decades of life, but how these non-dividing cells are preserved is poorly understood. Using mouse serotonin (5-HT) neurons as a model, we report an adult-stage transcriptional program specialized to ensure the preservation of neuronal connectivity. We uncover a switch in Lmx1b and Pet1 transcription factor function from controlling embryonic axonal growth to sustaining a transcriptomic signature of 5-HT connectivity comprising functionally diverse synaptic and axonal genes. Adult-stage deficiency of Lmx1b and Pet1 causes slowly progressing degeneration of 5-HT synapses and axons, increased susceptibility of 5-HT axons to neurotoxic injury, and abnormal stress responses. Axon degeneration occurs in a die back pattern and is accompanied by accumulation of α-synuclein and amyloid precursor protein in spheroids and mitochondrial fragmentation without cell body loss. Our findings suggest that neuronal connectivity is transcriptionally protected by maintenance of connectivity transcriptomes; progressive decay of such transcriptomes may contribute to age-related diseases of brain circuitry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meagan M Kitt
- Department of Neurosciences, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Nobuko Tabuchi
- Department of Neurosciences, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - W Clay Spencer
- Department of Neurosciences, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Heath L Robinson
- Department of Neurosciences, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Xinrui L Zhang
- Department of Neurosciences, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Brent A Eastman
- Department of Neurosciences, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Katherine J Lobur
- Department of Neurosciences, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Jerry Silver
- Department of Neurosciences, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Lin Mei
- Department of Neurosciences, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Evan S Deneris
- Department of Neurosciences, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA.
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12
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Catela C, Chen Y, Weng Y, Wen K, Kratsios P. Control of spinal motor neuron terminal differentiation through sustained Hoxc8 gene activity. eLife 2022; 11:70766. [PMID: 35315772 PMCID: PMC8940177 DOI: 10.7554/elife.70766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2021] [Accepted: 03/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Spinal motor neurons (MNs) constitute cellular substrates for several movement disorders. Although their early development has received much attention, how spinal MNs become and remain terminally differentiated is poorly understood. Here, we determined the transcriptome of mouse MNs located at the brachial domain of the spinal cord at embryonic and postnatal stages. We identified novel transcription factors (TFs) and terminal differentiation genes (e.g. ion channels, neurotransmitter receptors, adhesion molecules) with continuous expression in MNs. Interestingly, genes encoding homeodomain TFs (e.g. HOX, LIM), previously implicated in early MN development, continue to be expressed postnatally, suggesting later functions. To test this idea, we inactivated Hoxc8 at successive stages of mouse MN development and observed motor deficits. Our in vivo findings suggest that Hoxc8 is not only required to establish, but also maintain expression of several MN terminal differentiation markers. Data from in vitro generated MNs indicate Hoxc8 acts directly and is sufficient to induce expression of terminal differentiation genes. Our findings dovetail recent observations in Caenorhabditis elegans MNs, pointing toward an evolutionarily conserved role for Hox in neuronal terminal differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catarina Catela
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Chicago, Chicago, United States.,University of Chicago Neuroscience Institute, Chicago, United States
| | - Yihan Chen
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Chicago, Chicago, United States.,University of Chicago Neuroscience Institute, Chicago, United States
| | - Yifei Weng
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Chicago, Chicago, United States.,University of Chicago Neuroscience Institute, Chicago, United States
| | - Kailong Wen
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Chicago, Chicago, United States.,University of Chicago Neuroscience Institute, Chicago, United States
| | - Paschalis Kratsios
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Chicago, Chicago, United States.,University of Chicago Neuroscience Institute, Chicago, United States
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13
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Peek SL, Bosch PJ, Bahl E, Iverson BJ, Parida M, Bais P, Manak JR, Michaelson JJ, Burgess RW, Weiner JA. p53-mediated neurodegeneration in the absence of the nuclear protein Akirin2. iScience 2022; 25:103814. [PMID: 35198879 PMCID: PMC8844820 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2022.103814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2021] [Revised: 01/04/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Proper gene regulation is critical for both neuronal development and maintenance as the brain matures. We previously demonstrated that Akirin2, an essential nuclear protein that interacts with transcription factors and chromatin remodeling complexes, is required for the embryonic formation of the cerebral cortex. Here we show that Akirin2 plays a mechanistically distinct role in maintaining healthy neurons during cortical maturation. Restricting Akirin2 loss to excitatory cortical neurons resulted in progressive neurodegeneration via necroptosis and severe cortical atrophy with age. Comparing transcriptomes from Akirin2-null postnatal neurons and cortical progenitors revealed that targets of the tumor suppressor p53, a regulator of both proliferation and cell death encoded by Trp53, were consistently upregulated. Reduction of Trp53 rescued neurodegeneration in Akirin2-null neurons. These data: (1) implicate Akirin2 as a critical neuronal maintenance protein, (2) identify p53 pathways as mediators of Akirin2 functions, and (3) suggest Akirin2 dysfunction may be relevant to neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stacey L. Peek
- Interdisciplinary Graduate Program in Neuroscience, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
- Department of Biology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
- Iowa Neuroscience Institute, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - Peter J. Bosch
- Department of Biology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
- Iowa Neuroscience Institute, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - Ethan Bahl
- Iowa Neuroscience Institute, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
- Interdisciplinary Graduate Program in Genetics, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - Brianna J. Iverson
- Department of Biology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
- Iowa Neuroscience Institute, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - Mrutyunjaya Parida
- Department of Biology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
- Departments of Pediatrics, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
- Roy J. Carver Center for Genomics, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - Preeti Bais
- The Jackson Laboratory, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, USA
| | - J. Robert Manak
- Department of Biology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
- Departments of Pediatrics, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
- Roy J. Carver Center for Genomics, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - Jacob J. Michaelson
- Iowa Neuroscience Institute, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
- Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
- Iowa Institute of Human Genetics, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | | | - Joshua A. Weiner
- Department of Biology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
- Iowa Neuroscience Institute, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
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14
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Yoo ES, Li L, Jia L, Lord CC, Lee CE, Birnbaum SG, Vianna CR, Berglund ED, Cunningham KA, Xu Y, Sohn JW, Liu C. Gα i/o-coupled Htr2c in the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus antagonizes the anorectic effect of serotonin agents. Cell Rep 2021; 37:109997. [PMID: 34788630 PMCID: PMC8636014 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2021.109997] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2021] [Revised: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 10/21/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
The anorexigenic effect of serotonergic compounds has largely been attributed to activation of serotonin 2C receptors (Htr2cs). Using mouse genetic models in which Htr2c can be selectively deleted or restored (in Htr2c-null mice), we investigate the role of Htr2c in forebrain Sim1 neurons. Unexpectedly, we find that Htr2c acts in these neurons to promote food intake and counteract the anorectic effect of serotonergic appetite suppressants. Furthermore, Htr2c marks a subset of Sim1 neurons in the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus (PVH). Chemogenetic activation of these neurons in adult mice suppresses hunger, whereas their silencing promotes feeding. In support of an orexigenic role of PVH Htr2c, whole-cell patch-clamp experiments demonstrate that activation of Htr2c inhibits PVH neurons. Intriguingly, this inhibition is due to Gαi/o-dependent activation of ATP-sensitive K+ conductance, a mechanism of action not identified previously in the mammalian nervous system. Yoo et al. show that Htr2c, the target of a former weight loss drug, can inhibit and promote food intake by coupling with distinct intracellular signaling events in different hypothalamic neurons. These findings may help explain the rather modest anti-obesity effects of Htr2c agonists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eun-Seon Yoo
- Department of Biological Sciences, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Daejeon 34141, Korea
| | - Li Li
- Center for Hypothalamic Research, Department of Internal Medicine, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Lin Jia
- Center for Hypothalamic Research, Department of Internal Medicine, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA; Department of Biological Sciences, The University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, TX 75080, USA
| | - Caleb C Lord
- Center for Hypothalamic Research, Department of Internal Medicine, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Charlotte E Lee
- Center for Hypothalamic Research, Department of Internal Medicine, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Shari G Birnbaum
- Department of Psychiatry, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA; Peter O'Donnell Jr. Brain Institute, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Claudia R Vianna
- Center for Hypothalamic Research, Department of Internal Medicine, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Eric D Berglund
- Center for Hypothalamic Research, Department of Internal Medicine, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Kathryn A Cunningham
- Center for Addiction Research and Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA
| | - Yong Xu
- Children's Nutrition Research Center, Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA; Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Jong-Woo Sohn
- Department of Biological Sciences, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Daejeon 34141, Korea.
| | - Chen Liu
- Center for Hypothalamic Research, Department of Internal Medicine, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA; Department of Neuroscience, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA; Peter O'Donnell Jr. Brain Institute, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA.
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15
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Senft RA, Dymecki SM. Neuronal pericellular baskets: neurotransmitter convergence and regulation of network excitability. Trends Neurosci 2021; 44:915-924. [PMID: 34565612 PMCID: PMC8551026 DOI: 10.1016/j.tins.2021.08.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2021] [Revised: 07/29/2021] [Accepted: 08/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
A pericellular basket is a presynaptic configuration of numerous axonal boutons outlining a target neuron soma and its proximal dendrites. Recent studies show neurochemical diversity of pericellular baskets and suggest that neurotransmitter usage together with the dense, soma-proximal boutons may permit strong input effects on different timescales. Here we review the development, distribution, neurochemical phenotypes, and possible functions of pericellular baskets. As an example, we highlight pericellular baskets formed by projections of certain Pet1/Fev neurons of the serotonergic raphe nuclei. We propose that pericellular baskets represent convergence sites of competition or facilitation between neurotransmitter systems on downstream circuitry, especially in limbic brain regions, where pericellular baskets are widespread. Study of these baskets may enhance our understanding of monoamine regulation of memory, social behavior, and brain oscillations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca A Senft
- Department of Genetics, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Susan M Dymecki
- Department of Genetics, Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
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16
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Sarkar D, Shariq M, Dwivedi D, Krishnan N, Naumann R, Bhalla US, Ghosh HS. Adult brain neurons require continual expression of the schizophrenia-risk gene Tcf4 for structural and functional integrity. Transl Psychiatry 2021; 11:494. [PMID: 34564703 PMCID: PMC8464606 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-021-01618-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Revised: 08/18/2021] [Accepted: 09/07/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The schizophrenia-risk gene Tcf4 has been widely studied in the context of brain development using mouse models of haploinsufficiency, in utero knockdown and embryonic deletion. However, Tcf4 continues to be abundantly expressed in adult brain neurons where its functions remain unknown. Given the importance of Tcf4 in psychiatric diseases, we investigated its role in adult neurons using cell-specific deletion and genetic tracing in adult animals. Acute loss of Tcf4 in adult excitatory neurons in vivo caused hyperexcitability and increased dendritic complexity of neurons, effects that were distinct from previously observed effects in embryonic-deficiency models. Interestingly, transcriptomic analysis of genetically traced adult-deleted FACS-sorted Tcf4-knockout neurons revealed that Tcf4 targets in adult neurons are distinct from those in the embryonic brain. Meta-analysis of the adult-deleted neuronal transcriptome from our study with the existing datasets of embryonic Tcf4 deficiencies revealed plasma membrane and ciliary genes to underlie Tcf4-mediated structure-function regulation specifically in adult neurons. The profound changes both in the structure and excitability of adult neurons upon acute loss of Tcf4 indicates that proactive regulation of membrane-related processes underlies the functional and structural integrity of adult neurons. These findings not only provide insights for the functional relevance of continual expression of a psychiatric disease-risk gene in the adult brain but also identify previously unappreciated gene networks underpinning mature neuronal regulation during the adult lifespan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dipannita Sarkar
- grid.22401.350000 0004 0502 9283National Center for Biological Sciences, Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, Bangalore, 560065 India ,grid.502290.cThe University of Trans-Disciplinary Health Sciences and Technology, Bangalore, 560064 India
| | - Mohammad Shariq
- grid.22401.350000 0004 0502 9283National Center for Biological Sciences, Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, Bangalore, 560065 India ,grid.502290.cThe University of Trans-Disciplinary Health Sciences and Technology, Bangalore, 560064 India
| | - Deepanjali Dwivedi
- grid.22401.350000 0004 0502 9283National Center for Biological Sciences, Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, Bangalore, 560065 India
| | - Nirmal Krishnan
- grid.22401.350000 0004 0502 9283National Center for Biological Sciences, Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, Bangalore, 560065 India
| | - Ronald Naumann
- grid.419537.d0000 0001 2113 4567MPI of Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics, Dresden, 01307 Germany
| | - Upinder Singh Bhalla
- grid.22401.350000 0004 0502 9283National Center for Biological Sciences, Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, Bangalore, 560065 India
| | - Hiyaa Singhee Ghosh
- National Center for Biological Sciences, Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, Bangalore, 560065, India.
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17
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Ritter KE, Buehler DP, Asher SB, Deal KK, Zhao S, Guo Y, Southard-Smith EM. 5-HT3 Signaling Alters Development of Sacral Neural Crest Derivatives That Innervate the Lower Urinary Tract. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22136838. [PMID: 34202161 PMCID: PMC8269166 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22136838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Revised: 06/19/2021] [Accepted: 06/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The autonomic nervous system derives from the neural crest (NC) and supplies motor innervation to the smooth muscle of visceral organs, including the lower urinary tract (LUT). During fetal development, sacral NC cells colonize the urogenital sinus to form pelvic ganglia (PG) flanking the bladder neck. The coordinated activity of PG neurons is required for normal urination; however, little is known about the development of PG neuronal diversity. To discover candidate genes involved in PG neurogenesis, the transcriptome profiling of sacral NC and developing PG was performed, and we identified the enrichment of the type 3 serotonin receptor (5-HT3, encoded by Htr3a and Htr3b). We determined that Htr3a is one of the first serotonin receptor genes that is up-regulated in sacral NC progenitors and is maintained in differentiating PG neurons. In vitro cultures showed that the disruption of 5-HT3 signaling alters the differentiation outcomes of sacral NC cells, while the stimulation of 5-HT3 in explanted fetal pelvic ganglia severely diminished neurite arbor outgrowth. Overall, this study provides a valuable resource for the analysis of signaling pathways in PG development, identifies 5-HT3 as a novel regulator of NC lineage diversification and neuronal maturation in the peripheral nervous system, and indicates that the perturbation of 5-HT3 signaling in gestation has the potential to alter bladder function later in life.
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Affiliation(s)
- K. Elaine Ritter
- Division of Genetic Medicine, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232, USA; (K.E.R.); (D.P.B.); (S.B.A.); (K.K.D.)
| | - Dennis P. Buehler
- Division of Genetic Medicine, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232, USA; (K.E.R.); (D.P.B.); (S.B.A.); (K.K.D.)
| | - Stephanie B. Asher
- Division of Genetic Medicine, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232, USA; (K.E.R.); (D.P.B.); (S.B.A.); (K.K.D.)
| | - Karen K. Deal
- Division of Genetic Medicine, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232, USA; (K.E.R.); (D.P.B.); (S.B.A.); (K.K.D.)
| | - Shilin Zhao
- Department of Biostatistics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232, USA; (S.Z.); (Y.G.)
| | - Yan Guo
- Department of Biostatistics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232, USA; (S.Z.); (Y.G.)
| | - E Michelle Southard-Smith
- Division of Genetic Medicine, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232, USA; (K.E.R.); (D.P.B.); (S.B.A.); (K.K.D.)
- Correspondence:
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18
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Liu SX, Gades MS, Swain Y, Ramakrishnan A, Harris AC, Tran PV, Gewirtz JC. Repeated morphine exposure activates synaptogenesis and other neuroplasticity-related gene networks in the dorsomedial prefrontal cortex of male and female rats. Drug Alcohol Depend 2021; 221:108598. [PMID: 33626484 PMCID: PMC8026706 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2021.108598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2020] [Revised: 01/27/2021] [Accepted: 01/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Opioid abuse is a chronic disorder likely involving stable neuroplastic modifications. While a number of molecules contributing to these changes have been identified, the broader spectrum of genes and gene networks that are affected by repeated opioid administration remain understudied. METHODS We employed Next-Generation RNA-sequencing (RNA-seq) followed by quantitative chromatin immunoprecipitation to investigate changes in gene expression and their regulation in adult male and female rats' dorsomedial prefrontal cortex (dmPFC) after a regimen of daily injection of morphine (5.0 mg/kg; 10 days). Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA) was used to analyze affected molecular pathways, gene networks, and associated regulatory factors. A complementary behavioral study evaluated the effects of the same morphine injection regimen on locomotor activity, pain sensitivity, and somatic withdrawal signs. RESULTS Behaviorally, repeated morphine injection induced locomotor hyperactivity and hyperalgesia in both sexes. 90 % of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in morphine-treated rats were upregulated in both males and females, with a 35 % overlap between sexes. A substantial number of DEGs play roles in synaptic signaling and neuroplasticity. Chromatin immunoprecipitation revealed enrichment of H3 acetylation, a transcriptionally activating chromatin mark. Although broadly similar, some differences were revealed in the gene ontology networks enriched in females and males. CONCLUSIONS Our results cohere with findings from previous studies based on a priori gene selection. Our results also reveal novel genes and molecular pathways that are upregulated by repeated morphine exposure, with some common to males and females and others that are sex-specific.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shirelle X Liu
- Department of Psychology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, United States
| | - Mari S Gades
- Department of Psychology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, United States
| | - Yayi Swain
- Department of Psychology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, United States; Hennepin Healthcare Research Institute, Minneapolis, MN, 55404, United States
| | | | - Andrew C Harris
- Department of Psychology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, United States; Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, United States; Hennepin Healthcare Research Institute, Minneapolis, MN, 55404, United States
| | - Phu V Tran
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, United States
| | - Jonathan C Gewirtz
- Department of Psychology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, United States.
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19
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Pten is a key intrinsic factor regulating raphe 5-HT neuronal plasticity and depressive behaviors in mice. Transl Psychiatry 2021; 11:186. [PMID: 33771970 PMCID: PMC7998026 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-021-01303-z] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2020] [Revised: 02/20/2021] [Accepted: 03/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Serotonin (5-HT)-based antidepressants, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) aim to enhance serotonergic activity by blocking its reuptake. We propose PTEN as a target for an alternative approach for regulating 5-HT neuron activity in the brain and depressive behaviors. We show that PTEN is elevated in central 5-HT neurons in the raphe nucleus by chronic stress in mice, and selective deletion of Pten in the 5-HT neurons induces its structural plasticity shown by increases of dendritic branching and density of PSD95-positive puncta in the dendrites. 5-HT levels are elevated and electrical stimulation of raphe neurons evokes more 5-HT release in the brain of condition knockout (cKO) mice with Pten-deficient 5-HT neurons. In addition, the 5-HT neurons remain normal electrophysiological properties but have increased excitatory synaptic inputs. Single-cell RNA sequencing revealed gene transcript alterations that may underlay morphological and functional changes in Pten-deficient 5-HT neurons. Finally, Pten cKO mice and wild-type mice treated with systemic application of PTEN inhibitor display reduced depression-like behaviors. Thus, PTEN is an intrinsic regulator of 5-HT neuron activity, representing a novel therapeutic strategy for producing antidepressant action.
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20
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Serotonin deficiency induced after brain maturation rescues consequences of early life adversity. Sci Rep 2021; 11:5368. [PMID: 33686115 PMCID: PMC7940624 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-83592-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2020] [Accepted: 01/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Brain serotonin (5-HT) system dysfunction is implicated in depressive disorders and acute depletion of 5-HT precursor tryptophan has frequently been used to model the influence of 5-HT deficiency on emotion regulation. Tamoxifen (TAM)-induced Cre/loxP-mediated inactivation of the tryptophan hydroxylase-2 gene (Tph2) was used to investigate the effects of provoked 5-HT deficiency in adult mice (Tph2 icKO) previously subjected to maternal separation (MS). The efficiency of Tph2 inactivation was validated by immunohistochemistry and HPLC. The impact of Tph2 icKO in interaction with MS stress (Tph2 icKO × MS) on physiological parameters, emotional behavior and expression of 5-HT system-related marker genes were assessed. Tph2 icKO mice displayed a significant reduction in 5-HT immunoreactive cells and 5-HT concentrations in the rostral raphe region within four weeks following TAM treatment. Tph2 icKO and MS differentially affected food and water intake, locomotor activity as well as panic-like escape behavior. Tph2 icKO prevented the adverse effects of MS stress and altered the expression of the genes previously linked to stress and emotionality. In conclusion, an experimental model was established to study the behavioral and neurobiological consequences of 5-HT deficiency in adulthood in interaction with early-life adversity potentially affecting brain development and the pathogenesis of depressive disorders.
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21
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Kitazawa H, Hasegawa K, Aruga D, Tanaka M. Potential Genetic Contributions of the Central Nervous System to a Predisposition to Elite Athletic Traits: State-of-the-Art and Future Perspectives. Genes (Basel) 2021; 12:genes12030371. [PMID: 33807752 PMCID: PMC8000928 DOI: 10.3390/genes12030371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Revised: 02/27/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent remarkable advances in genetic technologies have allowed for the identification of genetic factors potentially related to a predisposition to elite athletic performance. Most of these genetic variants seem to be implicated in musculoskeletal and cardiopulmonary functions. Conversely, it remains unclear whether functions of the central nervous system (CNS) genetically contribute to elite athletic traits, although the CNS plays critical roles in exercise performance. Accumulating evidence has highlighted the emerging implications of CNS-related genes in the modulation of brain activities, including mental performance and motor-related traits, thereby potentially contributing to high levels of exercise performance. In this review, recent advances are summarized, and future research directions are discussed in regard to CNS-related genes with potential roles in a predisposition to elite athletic traits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroya Kitazawa
- Department of Physical Therapy, Health Science University, 7187 Kodachi, Fujikawaguchiko-machi, Minamitsuru-gun, Yamanashi 401-0380, Japan; (H.K.); (D.A.)
| | - Kazuya Hasegawa
- Faculty of Nutritional Sciences, Morioka University, 808 Sunakomi, Takizawa City, Iwate 020-0694, Japan;
| | - Daichi Aruga
- Department of Physical Therapy, Health Science University, 7187 Kodachi, Fujikawaguchiko-machi, Minamitsuru-gun, Yamanashi 401-0380, Japan; (H.K.); (D.A.)
| | - Masashi Tanaka
- Department of Physical Therapy, Health Science University, 7187 Kodachi, Fujikawaguchiko-machi, Minamitsuru-gun, Yamanashi 401-0380, Japan; (H.K.); (D.A.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +81-555-83-5200
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22
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Inactivation of the GATA Cofactor ZFPM1 Results in Abnormal Development of Dorsal Raphe Serotonergic Neuron Subtypes and Increased Anxiety-Like Behavior. J Neurosci 2020; 40:8669-8682. [PMID: 33046550 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.2252-19.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2019] [Revised: 09/17/2020] [Accepted: 09/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Serotonergic neurons in the dorsal raphe (DR) nucleus are associated with several psychiatric disorders including depression and anxiety disorders, which often have a neurodevelopmental component. During embryonic development, GATA transcription factors GATA2 and GATA3 operate as serotonergic neuron fate selectors and regulate the differentiation of serotonergic neuron subtypes of DR. Here, we analyzed the requirement of GATA cofactor ZFPM1 in the development of serotonergic neurons using Zfpm1 conditional mouse mutants. Our results demonstrated that, unlike the GATA factors, ZFPM1 is not essential for the early differentiation of serotonergic precursors in the embryonic rhombomere 1. In contrast, in perinatal and adult male and female Zfpm1 mutants, a lateral subpopulation of DR neurons (ventrolateral part of the DR) was lost, whereas the number of serotonergic neurons in a medial subpopulation (dorsal region of the medial DR) had increased. Additionally, adult male and female Zfpm1 mutants had reduced serotonin concentration in rostral brain areas and displayed increased anxiety-like behavior. Interestingly, female Zfpm1 mutant mice showed elevated contextual fear memory that was abolished with chronic fluoxetine treatment. Altogether, these results demonstrate the importance of ZFPM1 for the development of DR serotonergic neuron subtypes involved in mood regulation. It also suggests that the neuronal fate selector function of GATAs is modulated by their cofactors to refine the differentiation of neuronal subtypes.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Predisposition to anxiety disorders has both a neurodevelopmental and a genetic basis. One of the brainstem nuclei involved in the regulation of anxiety is the dorsal raphe, which contains different subtypes of serotonergic neurons. We show that inactivation of a transcriptional cofactor ZFPM1 in mice results in a developmental failure of laterally located dorsal raphe serotonergic neurons and changes in serotonergic innervation of rostral brain regions. This leads to elevated anxiety-like behavior and contextual fear memory, alleviated by chronic fluoxetine treatment. Our work contributes to understanding the neurodevelopmental mechanisms that may be disturbed in the anxiety disorder.
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23
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Lipiec MA, Bem J, Koziński K, Chakraborty C, Urban-Ciećko J, Zajkowski T, Dąbrowski M, Szewczyk ŁM, Toval A, Ferran JL, Nagalski A, Wiśniewska MB. TCF7L2 regulates postmitotic differentiation programmes and excitability patterns in the thalamus. Development 2020; 147:dev.190181. [PMID: 32675279 PMCID: PMC7473649 DOI: 10.1242/dev.190181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2020] [Accepted: 07/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Neuronal phenotypes are controlled by terminal selector transcription factors in invertebrates, but only a few examples of such regulators have been provided in vertebrates. We hypothesised that TCF7L2 regulates different stages of postmitotic differentiation in the thalamus, and functions as a thalamic terminal selector. To investigate this hypothesis, we used complete and conditional knockouts of Tcf7l2 in mice. The connectivity and clustering of neurons were disrupted in the thalamo-habenular region in Tcf7l2-/- embryos. The expression of subregional thalamic and habenular transcription factors was lost and region-specific cell migration and axon guidance genes were downregulated. In mice with a postnatal Tcf7l2 knockout, the induction of genes that confer thalamic terminal electrophysiological features was impaired. Many of these genes proved to be direct targets of TCF7L2. The role of TCF7L2 in terminal selection was functionally confirmed by impaired firing modes in thalamic neurons in the mutant mice. These data corroborate the existence of master regulators in the vertebrate brain that control stage-specific genetic programmes and regional subroutines, maintain regional transcriptional network during embryonic development, and induce terminal selection postnatally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcin Andrzej Lipiec
- Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, Banacha 2, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland.,Faculty of Biology, University of Warsaw, Miecznikowa 1, 02-096 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Joanna Bem
- Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, Banacha 2, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Kamil Koziński
- Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, Banacha 2, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Chaitali Chakraborty
- Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, Banacha 2, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
| | | | - Tomasz Zajkowski
- Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, Banacha 2, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Michał Dąbrowski
- Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology, Pasteur 3, 02-093 Warsaw, Poland
| | | | - Angel Toval
- Department of Human Anatomy and Psychobiology, School of Medicine, University of Murcia and IMIB-Arrixaca Institute, Campus de la Salud, 30120 El Palmar, Murcia, Spain
| | - José Luis Ferran
- Department of Human Anatomy and Psychobiology, School of Medicine, University of Murcia and IMIB-Arrixaca Institute, Campus de la Salud, 30120 El Palmar, Murcia, Spain
| | - Andrzej Nagalski
- Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, Banacha 2, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
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24
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Okaty BW, Sturrock N, Escobedo Lozoya Y, Chang Y, Senft RA, Lyon KA, Alekseyenko OV, Dymecki SM. A single-cell transcriptomic and anatomic atlas of mouse dorsal raphe Pet1 neurons. eLife 2020; 9:e55523. [PMID: 32568072 PMCID: PMC7308082 DOI: 10.7554/elife.55523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2020] [Accepted: 06/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Among the brainstem raphe nuclei, the dorsal raphe nucleus (DR) contains the greatest number of Pet1-lineage neurons, a predominantly serotonergic group distributed throughout DR subdomains. These neurons collectively regulate diverse physiology and behavior and are often therapeutically targeted to treat affective disorders. Characterizing Pet1 neuron molecular heterogeneity and relating it to anatomy is vital for understanding DR functional organization, with potential to inform therapeutic separability. Here we use high-throughput and DR subdomain-targeted single-cell transcriptomics and intersectional genetic tools to map molecular and anatomical diversity of DR-Pet1 neurons. We describe up to fourteen neuron subtypes, many showing biased cell body distributions across the DR. We further show that P2ry1-Pet1 DR neurons - the most molecularly distinct subtype - possess unique efferent projections and electrophysiological properties. These data complement and extend previous DR characterizations, combining intersectional genetics with multiple transcriptomic modalities to achieve fine-scale molecular and anatomic identification of Pet1 neuron subtypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin W Okaty
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical SchoolBostonUnited States
| | - Nikita Sturrock
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical SchoolBostonUnited States
| | | | - YoonJeung Chang
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical SchoolBostonUnited States
| | - Rebecca A Senft
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical SchoolBostonUnited States
| | - Krissy A Lyon
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical SchoolBostonUnited States
| | | | - Susan M Dymecki
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical SchoolBostonUnited States
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25
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Chen X, Wyler SC, Li L, Arnold AG, Wan R, Jia L, Landy MA, Lai HC, Xu P, Liu C. Comparative Transcriptomic Analyses of Developing Melanocortin Neurons Reveal New Regulators for the Anorexigenic Neuron Identity. J Neurosci 2020; 40:3165-3177. [PMID: 32213554 PMCID: PMC7159888 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.0155-20.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2020] [Revised: 02/28/2020] [Accepted: 03/09/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite their opposing actions on food intake, POMC and NPY/AgRP neurons in the arcuate nucleus of the hypothalamus (ARH) are derived from the same progenitors that give rise to ARH neurons. However, the mechanism whereby common neuronal precursors subsequently adopt either the anorexigenic (POMC) or the orexigenic (NPY/AgRP) identity remains elusive. We hypothesize that POMC and NPY/AgRP cell fates are specified and maintained by distinct intrinsic factors. In search of them, we profiled the transcriptomes of developing POMC and NPY/AgRP neurons in mice. Moreover, cell-type-specific transcriptomic analyses revealed transcription regulators that are selectively enriched in either population, but whose developmental functions are unknown in these neurons. Among them, we found the expression of the PR domain-containing factor 12 (Prdm12) was enriched in POMC neurons but absent in NPY/AgRP neurons. To study the role of Prdm12 in vivo, we developed and characterized a floxed Prdm12 allele. Selective ablation of Prdm12 in embryonic POMC neurons led to significantly reduced Pomc expression as well as early-onset obesity in mice of either sex that recapitulates symptoms of human POMC deficiency. Interestingly, however, specific deletion of Prdm12 in adult POMC neurons showed that it is no longer required for Pomc expression or energy balance. Collectively, these findings establish a critical role for Prdm12 in the anorexigenic neuron identity and suggest that it acts developmentally to program body weight homeostasis. Finally, the combination of cell-type-specific genomic and genetic analyses provides a means to dissect cellular and functional diversity in the hypothalamus whose neurodevelopment remains poorly studied.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT POMC and NPY/AgRP neurons are derived from the same hypothalamic progenitors but have opposing effects on food intake. We profiled the transcriptomes of genetically labeled POMC and NPY/AgRP neurons in the developing mouse hypothalamus to decipher the transcriptional codes behind the versus orexigenic neuron identity. Our analyses revealed 29 transcription regulators that are selectively enriched in one of the two populations. We generated new mouse genetic models to selective ablate one of POMC-neuron enriched transcription factors Prdm12 in developing and adult POMC neurons. Our studies establish a previously unrecognized role for Prdm12 in the anorexigenic neuron identity and suggest that it acts developmentally to program body weight homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiameng Chen
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hypothalamic Research Center, Dallas, Texas 75390
| | - Steven C Wyler
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hypothalamic Research Center, Dallas, Texas 75390
| | - Li Li
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hypothalamic Research Center, Dallas, Texas 75390
| | - Amanda G Arnold
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hypothalamic Research Center, Dallas, Texas 75390
| | - Rong Wan
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hypothalamic Research Center, Dallas, Texas 75390
| | - Lin Jia
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hypothalamic Research Center, Dallas, Texas 75390
| | - Mark A Landy
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas 75390
| | - Helen C Lai
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas 75390
| | - Pin Xu
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas 75390
| | - Chen Liu
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hypothalamic Research Center, Dallas, Texas 75390
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas 75390
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26
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Remesal L, Roger-Baynat I, Chirivella L, Maicas M, Brocal-Ruiz R, Pérez-Villalba A, Cucarella C, Casado M, Flames N. PBX1 acts as terminal selector for olfactory bulb dopaminergic neurons. Development 2020; 147:dev.186841. [PMID: 32156753 DOI: 10.1242/dev.186841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2019] [Accepted: 02/24/2020] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Neuronal specification is a protracted process that begins with the commitment of progenitor cells and culminates with the generation of mature neurons. Many transcription factors are continuously expressed during this process but it is presently unclear how these factors modify their targets as cells transition through different stages of specification. In olfactory bulb adult neurogenesis, the transcription factor PBX1 controls neurogenesis in progenitor cells and the survival of migrating neuroblasts. Here, we show that, at later differentiation stages, PBX1 also acts as a terminal selector for the dopaminergic neuron fate. PBX1 is also required for the morphological maturation of dopaminergic neurons and to repress alternative interneuron fates, findings that expand the known repertoire of terminal-selector actions. Finally, we reveal that the temporal diversification of PBX1 functions in neuronal specification is achieved, at least in part, through the dynamic regulation of alternative splicing. In Caenorhabditis elegans, PBX/CEH-20 also acts as a dopaminergic neuron terminal selector, which suggests an ancient role for PBX factors in the regulation of terminal differentiation of dopaminergic neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Remesal
- Developmental Neurobiology Unit, Instituto de Biomedicina de Valencia, IBV-CSIC, 46010 Valencia, Spain
| | - Isabel Roger-Baynat
- Developmental Neurobiology Unit, Instituto de Biomedicina de Valencia, IBV-CSIC, 46010 Valencia, Spain
| | - Laura Chirivella
- Developmental Neurobiology Unit, Instituto de Biomedicina de Valencia, IBV-CSIC, 46010 Valencia, Spain
| | - Miren Maicas
- Developmental Neurobiology Unit, Instituto de Biomedicina de Valencia, IBV-CSIC, 46010 Valencia, Spain
| | - Rebeca Brocal-Ruiz
- Developmental Neurobiology Unit, Instituto de Biomedicina de Valencia, IBV-CSIC, 46010 Valencia, Spain
| | - Ana Pérez-Villalba
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Estructura de Recerca Interdisciplinar en Biotecnologia i Biomedicina (ERI BIOTECMED), and Departamento de Biología Celular, Biología Funcional y Antropología Física, Universidad de Valencia, 46100 Burjassot, Spain
| | - Carme Cucarella
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), Metabolic Experimental Pathology Unit, Instituto de Biomedicina de Valencia, IBV-CSIC, 46010 Valencia, Spain
| | - Marta Casado
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), Metabolic Experimental Pathology Unit, Instituto de Biomedicina de Valencia, IBV-CSIC, 46010 Valencia, Spain
| | - Nuria Flames
- Developmental Neurobiology Unit, Instituto de Biomedicina de Valencia, IBV-CSIC, 46010 Valencia, Spain
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27
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Abstract
Neurons that synthesize and release 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT; serotonin) express a core set of genes that establish and maintain this neurotransmitter phenotype and distinguish these neurons from other brain cells. Beyond a shared 5-HTergic phenotype, these neurons display divergent cellular properties in relation to anatomy, morphology, hodology, electrophysiology and gene expression, including differential expression of molecules supporting co-transmission of additional neurotransmitters. This diversity suggests that functionally heterogeneous subtypes of 5-HT neurons exist, but linking subsets of these neurons to particular functions has been technically challenging. We discuss recent data from molecular genetic, genomic and functional methods that, when coupled with classical findings, yield a reframing of the 5-HT neuronal system as a conglomeration of diverse subsystems with potential to inspire novel, more targeted therapies for clinically distinct 5-HT-related disorders.
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28
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Näslund J, Studer E, Nilsson S, Eriksson E. Expression of 22 serotonin-related genes in rat brain after sub-acute serotonin depletion or reuptake inhibition. Acta Neuropsychiatr 2020; 32:1-7. [PMID: 32063244 PMCID: PMC7282867 DOI: 10.1017/neu.2020.9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2019] [Revised: 01/29/2020] [Accepted: 02/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Although the assessment of expression of serotonin-related genes in experimental animals has become a common strategy to shed light on variations in brain serotonergic function, it remains largely unknown to what extent the manipulation of serotonin levels causes detectable changes in gene expression. We therefore chose to investigate how sub-acute depletion or elevation of brain serotonin influences the expression of a number of serotonin-related genes in six brain areas. METHODS Male Wistar rats were administered a serotonin synthesis inhibitor, para-chlorophenylalanine (p-CPA), or a serotonin reuptake inhibitor, paroxetine, for 3 days and then sacrificed. The expression of a number of serotonin-related genes in the raphe nuclei, hypothalamus, amygdala, striatum, hippocampus and prefrontal cortex was investigated using real-time quantitative PCR (rt-qPCR). RESULTS While most of the studied genes were uninfluenced by paroxetine treatment, we could observe a robust downregulation of tryptophan hydroxylase-2 in the brain region where the serotonergic cell bodies reside, that is, the raphe nuclei. p-CPA induced a significant increase in the expression of Htr1b and Htr2a in amygdala and of Htr2c in the striatum and a marked reduction in the expression of Htr6 in prefrontal cortex; it also enhanced the expression of the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (Bdnf) in raphe and hippocampus. CONCLUSION With some notable exceptions, the expression of most of the studied genes is left unchanged by short-term modulation of extracellular levels of serotonin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jakob Näslund
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology at the Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Erik Studer
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology at the Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Staffan Nilsson
- Division of Applied Mathematics and Statistics, Department of Mathematical Sciences, Chalmers University of Technology, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Elias Eriksson
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology at the Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
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29
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Switching on the furnace: Regulation of heat production in brown adipose tissue. Mol Aspects Med 2019; 68:60-73. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mam.2019.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
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30
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Donovan LJ, Spencer WC, Kitt MM, Eastman BA, Lobur KJ, Jiao K, Silver J, Deneris ES. Lmx1b is required at multiple stages to build expansive serotonergic axon architectures. eLife 2019; 8:e48788. [PMID: 31355748 PMCID: PMC6685705 DOI: 10.7554/elife.48788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2019] [Accepted: 07/27/2019] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Formation of long-range axons occurs over multiple stages of morphological maturation. However, the intrinsic transcriptional mechanisms that temporally control different stages of axon projection development are unknown. Here, we addressed this question by studying the formation of mouse serotonin (5-HT) axons, the exemplar of long-range profusely arborized axon architectures. We report that LIM homeodomain factor 1b (Lmx1b)-deficient 5-HT neurons fail to generate axonal projections to the forebrain and spinal cord. Stage-specific targeting demonstrates that Lmx1b is required at successive stages to control 5-HT axon primary outgrowth, selective routing, and terminal arborization. We show a Lmx1b→Pet1 regulatory cascade is temporally required for 5-HT arborization and upregulation of the 5-HT axon arborization gene, Protocadherin-alphac2, during postnatal development of forebrain 5-HT axons. Our findings identify a temporal regulatory mechanism in which a single continuously expressed transcription factor functions at successive stages to orchestrate the progressive development of long-range axon architectures enabling expansive neuromodulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren J Donovan
- Department of NeurosciencesSchool of Medicine, Case Western Reserve UniversityClevelandUnited States
| | - William C Spencer
- Department of NeurosciencesSchool of Medicine, Case Western Reserve UniversityClevelandUnited States
| | - Meagan M Kitt
- Department of NeurosciencesSchool of Medicine, Case Western Reserve UniversityClevelandUnited States
| | - Brent A Eastman
- Department of NeurosciencesSchool of Medicine, Case Western Reserve UniversityClevelandUnited States
| | - Katherine J Lobur
- Department of NeurosciencesSchool of Medicine, Case Western Reserve UniversityClevelandUnited States
| | - Kexin Jiao
- Department of NeurosciencesSchool of Medicine, Case Western Reserve UniversityClevelandUnited States
| | - Jerry Silver
- Department of NeurosciencesSchool of Medicine, Case Western Reserve UniversityClevelandUnited States
| | - Evan S Deneris
- Department of NeurosciencesSchool of Medicine, Case Western Reserve UniversityClevelandUnited States
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31
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Sargin D, Jeoung HS, Goodfellow NM, Lambe EK. Serotonin Regulation of the Prefrontal Cortex: Cognitive Relevance and the Impact of Developmental Perturbation. ACS Chem Neurosci 2019; 10:3078-3093. [PMID: 31259523 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.9b00073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The prefrontal cortex is essential for both executive function and emotional regulation. The interrelationships among these behavioral domains are increasingly recognized, as well as their sensitivity to serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine, 5-HT). Prefrontal cortex receives serotonergic inputs from the dorsal and median raphe nuclei and is modulated by multiple subtypes of 5-HT receptor across its layers and cell types. Extremes of serotonergic modulation alter mood regulation in vulnerable individuals, yet the impact of serotonin under more typical physiological parameters remains unclear. In this regard, new tools are permitting a closer examination of the behavioral impact of the serotonin system. Optogenetic and chemogenetic manipulations of dorsal raphe 5-HT neurons reveal that serotonin has a greater impact on executive function than previously appreciated. Domains that appear sensitive to fluctuations in 5-HT neuronal excitability include patience and cognitive flexibility. This work is broadly consistent with ex vivo research investigating how 5-HT regulates prefrontal cortex and its output projections. A growing literature suggests 5-HT modulation of these prefrontal circuits is unexpectedly flexible to alteration during development by genetic, behavioral, environmental or pharmacological manipulations, with lasting repercussions for cognition and emotional regulation. Here, we review the cellular and circuit mechanisms of prefrontal serotonergic modulation, investigate recent research into the cognitive consequences of the serotonergic system, and probe the lasting consequences of developmental perturbations. Understanding both the complexity of the prefrontal serotonin system and its sensitivity during development are essential to learn more about the vulnerabilities of this system in mood and anxiety disorders and the underappreciated cognitive consequences of these disorders and their treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Derya Sargin
- Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Calgary, Calgary AB T2N 1N4, Canada
| | - Ha-Seul Jeoung
- Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
| | | | - Evelyn K. Lambe
- Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
- Department of OBGYN, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G 1E2, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5T 1R8, Canada
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32
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Drozd US, Shaburova EV, Dygalo NN. Genetic approaches to the investigation of serotonergic neuron functions in animals. Vavilovskii Zhurnal Genet Selektsii 2019. [DOI: 10.18699/vj19.513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The serotonergic system is one of the most important neurotransmitter systems that take part in the regulation of vital CNS functions. The understanding of its mechanisms will help scientists create new therapeutic approaches to the treatment of mental and neurodegenerative diseases and find out how this neurotransmitter system interacts with other parts of the brain and regulates their activity. Since the serotonergic system anatomy and functionality are heterogeneous and complex, the best tools for studying them are based on manipulation of individual types of neurons without affecting neurons of other neurotransmitter systems. The selective cell control is possible due to the genetic determinism of their functions. Proteins that determine the uniqueness of the cell type are expressed under the regulation of cell-specific promoters. By using promoters that are specific for genes of the serotonin system, one can control the expression of a gene of interest in serotonergic neurons. Here we review approaches based on such promoters. The genetic models to be discussed in the article have already shed the light on the role of the serotonergic system in modulating behavior and processing sensory information. In particular, genetic knockouts of serotonin genes sert, pet1, and tph2 promoted the determination of their contribution to the development and functioning of the brain. In addition, the review describes inducible models that allow gene expression to be controlled at various developmental stages. Finally, the application of these genetic approaches in optogenetics and chemogenetics provided a new resource for studying the functions, discharge activity, and signal transduction of serotonergic neurons. Nevertheless, the advantages and limitations of the discussed genetic approaches should be taken into consideration in the course of creating models of pathological conditions and developing pharmacological treatments for their correction.
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Affiliation(s)
- U. S. Drozd
- Novosibirsk State University; Institute of Cytology and Genetics, SB RAS
| | - E. V. Shaburova
- Novosibirsk State University; Institute of Cytology and Genetics, SB RAS
| | - N. N. Dygalo
- Novosibirsk State University; Institute of Cytology and Genetics, SB RAS
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33
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Doan RN, Lim ET, De Rubeis S, Betancur C, Cutler DJ, Chiocchetti AG, Overman LM, Soucy A, Goetze S, Freitag CM, Daly MJ, Walsh CA, Buxbaum JD, Yu TW. Recessive gene disruptions in autism spectrum disorder. Nat Genet 2019; 51:1092-1098. [PMID: 31209396 PMCID: PMC6629034 DOI: 10.1038/s41588-019-0433-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2018] [Accepted: 05/02/2019] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) affects up to 1 in 59 individuals1. Genome-wide association and large-scale sequencing studies strongly implicate both common variants2-4 and rare de novo variants5-10 in ASD. Recessive mutations have also been implicated11-14 but their contribution remains less well defined. Here we demonstrate an excess of biallelic loss-of-function and damaging missense mutations in a large ASD cohort, corresponding to approximately 5% of total cases, including 10% of females, consistent with a female protective effect. We document biallelic disruption of known or emerging recessive neurodevelopmental genes (CA2, DDHD1, NSUN2, PAH, RARB, ROGDI, SLC1A1, USH2A) as well as other genes not previously implicated in ASD including FEV (FEV transcription factor, ETS family member), which encodes a key regulator of the serotonergic circuitry. Our data refine estimates of the contribution of recessive mutation to ASD and suggest new paths for illuminating previously unknown biological pathways responsible for this condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan N Doan
- Division of Genetics and Genomics, Department of Pediatrics, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Elaine T Lim
- Division of Genetics and Genomics, Department of Pediatrics, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Silvia De Rubeis
- Seaver Autism Center for Research and Treatment, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- Mindich Child Health and Development Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Catalina Betancur
- Neuroscience Paris Seine, Institut de Biologie Paris Seine, Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, Paris, France
| | - David J Cutler
- Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Andreas G Chiocchetti
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, Autism Research and Intervention Center of Excellence, University Hospital Frankfurt, Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Lynne M Overman
- Human Developmental Biology Resource, Institute of Genetic Medicine, Newcastle University, International Centre for Life, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, UK
| | - Aubrie Soucy
- Division of Genetics and Genomics, Department of Pediatrics, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Susanne Goetze
- Division of Genetics and Genomics, Department of Pediatrics, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Christine M Freitag
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, Autism Research and Intervention Center of Excellence, University Hospital Frankfurt, Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Mark J Daly
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- The Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Center for Human Genetic Research, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Christopher A Walsh
- Division of Genetics and Genomics, Department of Pediatrics, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- The Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Joseph D Buxbaum
- Seaver Autism Center for Research and Treatment, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- Mindich Child Health and Development Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Timothy W Yu
- Division of Genetics and Genomics, Department of Pediatrics, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
- The Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA.
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Leyva-Díaz E, Hobert O. Transcription factor autoregulation is required for acquisition and maintenance of neuronal identity. Development 2019; 146:146/13/dev177378. [PMID: 31227642 DOI: 10.1242/dev.177378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2019] [Accepted: 05/13/2019] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
The expression of transcription factors that initiate the specification of a unique cellular identity in multicellular organisms is often maintained throughout the life of the respective cell type via an autoregulatory mechanism. It is generally assumed that such autoregulation serves to maintain the differentiated state of a cell. To experimentally test this assumption, we used CRISPR/Cas9-mediated genome engineering to delete a transcriptional autoregulatory, cis-acting motif in the che-1 zinc-finger transcription factor locus, a terminal selector required to specify the identity of the ASE neuron pair during embryonic development of the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans. We show that che-1 autoregulation is indeed required to maintain the differentiated state of the ASE neurons but that it is also required to amplify che-1 expression during embryonic development to reach an apparent minimal threshold to initiate the ASE differentiation program. We conclude that transcriptional autoregulation fulfills two intrinsically linked purposes: one in proper initiation, the other in proper maintenance of terminal differentiation programs.This article has an associated 'The people behind the papers' interview.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eduardo Leyva-Díaz
- Department of Biological Sciences, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Columbia University, New York, NY 10027, USA
| | - Oliver Hobert
- Department of Biological Sciences, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Columbia University, New York, NY 10027, USA
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Albert PR, Vahid-Ansari F. The 5-HT1A receptor: Signaling to behavior. Biochimie 2019; 161:34-45. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2018.10.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2018] [Accepted: 10/23/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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Vahid-Ansari F, Zhang M, Zahrai A, Albert PR. Overcoming Resistance to Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors: Targeting Serotonin, Serotonin-1A Receptors and Adult Neuroplasticity. Front Neurosci 2019; 13:404. [PMID: 31114473 PMCID: PMC6502905 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2019.00404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2018] [Accepted: 04/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Major depressive disorder (MDD) is the most prevalent mental illness contributing to global disease burden. Selective serotonin (5-HT) reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are the first-line treatment for MDD, but are only fully effective in 30% of patients and require weeks before improvement may be seen. About 30% of SSRI-resistant patients may respond to augmentation or switching to another antidepressant, often selected by trial and error. Hence a better understanding of the causes of SSRI resistance is needed to provide models for optimizing treatment. Since SSRIs enhance 5-HT, in this review we discuss new findings on the circuitry, development and function of the 5-HT system in modulating behavior, and on how 5-HT neuronal activity is regulated. We focus on the 5-HT1A autoreceptor, which controls 5-HT activity, and the 5-HT1A heteroreceptor that mediates 5-HT actions. A series of mice models now implicate increased levels of 5-HT1A autoreceptors in SSRI resistance, and the requirement of hippocampal 5-HT1A heteroreceptor for neurogenic and behavioral response to SSRIs. We also present clinical data that show promise for identifying biomarkers of 5-HT activity, 5-HT1A regulation and regional changes in brain activity in MDD patients that may provide biomarkers for tailored interventions to overcome or bypass resistance to SSRI treatment. We identify a series of potential strategies including inhibiting 5-HT auto-inhibition, stimulating 5-HT1A heteroreceptors, other monoamine systems, or cortical stimulation to overcome SSRI resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Paul R. Albert
- Brain and Mind Research Institute, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute (Neuroscience), University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
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37
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Peplonska B, Safranow K, Adamczyk J, Boguszewski D, Szymański K, Soltyszewski I, Barczak A, Siewierski M, Ploski R, Sozanski H, Zekanowski C. Association of serotoninergic pathway gene variants with elite athletic status in the Polish population. J Sports Sci 2019; 37:1655-1662. [PMID: 30836829 DOI: 10.1080/02640414.2019.1583156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Genetic factors are known to influence sport performance. The aim of the present study was to assess genetic variants in genes coding for proteins potentially modulating activity of brain emotion centres in a group of 621 elite athletes (212 endurance, 183 power and 226 combat athletes) and 672 sedentary controls. Ten statistically significant variants were identified in genes encoding elements of serotoninergic, catecholaminergic and hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal systems in different sport groups. Of those the rs860573 variant in the FEV gene coding for transcription factor exclusively expressed in neurons of the central serotonin system is the only one whose frequency significantly differentiates all the groups of athletes studied, regardless of discipline, from the controls (p = 0.000026). Our results support the hypothesis that genetic variants potentially affecting mental processes and emotions, particularly in the serotonergic pathway, also influence the predispositions to athletic performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beata Peplonska
- a Department of Neurodegenerative Disorders , Mossakowski Medical Research Centre Polish Academy of Sciences , Warsaw , Poland
| | - Krzysztof Safranow
- b Department of Biochemistry and Medical Chemistry , Pomeranian Medical University , Szczecin , Poland
| | - Jakub Adamczyk
- c Department of Sport's Theory , Jozef Pilsudski University of Physical Education in Warsaw , Warsaw , Poland
| | - Dariusz Boguszewski
- d Department of Rehabilitation, Physiotherapy Division , Medical University of Warsaw , Warsaw , Poland
| | - Konrad Szymański
- e Department of Medical Genetics , Centre for Biostructure, Medical University of Warsaw , Warsaw , Poland
| | - Ireneusz Soltyszewski
- f Department of Criminology and Forensic Medicine , Warmia and Mazury University , Olsztyn , Poland
| | - Anna Barczak
- a Department of Neurodegenerative Disorders , Mossakowski Medical Research Centre Polish Academy of Sciences , Warsaw , Poland
| | - Marcin Siewierski
- c Department of Sport's Theory , Jozef Pilsudski University of Physical Education in Warsaw , Warsaw , Poland
| | - Rafal Ploski
- e Department of Medical Genetics , Centre for Biostructure, Medical University of Warsaw , Warsaw , Poland
| | - Henryk Sozanski
- c Department of Sport's Theory , Jozef Pilsudski University of Physical Education in Warsaw , Warsaw , Poland
| | - Cezary Zekanowski
- c Department of Sport's Theory , Jozef Pilsudski University of Physical Education in Warsaw , Warsaw , Poland
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Yamamoto Y, Liang M, Munesue S, Deguchi K, Harashima A, Furuhara K, Yuhi T, Zhong J, Akther S, Goto H, Eguchi Y, Kitao Y, Hori O, Shiraishi Y, Ozaki N, Shimizu Y, Kamide T, Yoshikawa A, Hayashi Y, Nakada M, Lopatina O, Gerasimenko M, Komleva Y, Malinovskaya N, Salmina AB, Asano M, Nishimori K, Shoelson SE, Yamamoto H, Higashida H. Vascular RAGE transports oxytocin into the brain to elicit its maternal bonding behaviour in mice. Commun Biol 2019; 2:76. [PMID: 30820471 PMCID: PMC6389896 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-019-0325-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2018] [Accepted: 01/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Oxytocin sets the stage for childbirth by initiating uterine contractions, lactation and maternal bonding behaviours. Mice lacking secreted oxcytocin (Oxt−/−, Cd38−/−) or its receptor (Oxtr−/−) fail to nurture. Normal maternal behaviour is restored by peripheral oxcytocin replacement in Oxt−/− and Cd38−/−, but not Oxtr−/− mice, implying that circulating oxcytocin crosses the blood-brain barrier. Exogenous oxcytocin also has behavioural effects in humans. However, circulating polypeptides are typically excluded from the brain. We show that oxcytocin is transported into the brain by receptor for advanced glycation end-products (RAGE) on brain capillary endothelial cells. The increases in oxcytocin in the brain which follow exogenous administration are lost in Ager−/− male mice lacking RAGE, and behaviours characteristic to abnormalities in oxcytocin signalling are recapitulated in Ager−/− mice, including deficits in maternal bonding and hyperactivity. Our findings show that RAGE-mediated transport is critical to the behavioural actions of oxcytocin associated with parenting and social bonding. Yasuhiko Yamamoto et al. show that oxytocin is transported into the brain by the receptor for advanced glycation end-products (RAGE) on the blood-brain barrier. This study explains how circulating oxytocin crosses the blood-brain barrier, which is important to manifest oxytocin’s maternal bonding effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasuhiko Yamamoto
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Vascular Biology, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kanazawa, 920-8640, Japan.
| | - Mingkun Liang
- Department of Basic Research on Social Recognition and Memory, Research Centre for Child Mental Development, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, 920-8640, Japan
| | - Seiichi Munesue
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Vascular Biology, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kanazawa, 920-8640, Japan
| | - Kisaburo Deguchi
- Medical Research Institute, Kanazawa Medical University and Medical Care Proteomics Biotechnology Co., Uchinada, Ishikawa, 920-0293, Japan
| | - Ai Harashima
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Vascular Biology, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kanazawa, 920-8640, Japan
| | - Kazumi Furuhara
- Department of Basic Research on Social Recognition and Memory, Research Centre for Child Mental Development, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, 920-8640, Japan
| | - Teruko Yuhi
- Department of Basic Research on Social Recognition and Memory, Research Centre for Child Mental Development, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, 920-8640, Japan
| | - Jing Zhong
- Department of Basic Research on Social Recognition and Memory, Research Centre for Child Mental Development, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, 920-8640, Japan
| | - Shirin Akther
- Department of Basic Research on Social Recognition and Memory, Research Centre for Child Mental Development, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, 920-8640, Japan
| | - Hisanori Goto
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Vascular Biology, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kanazawa, 920-8640, Japan
| | - Yuya Eguchi
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Vascular Biology, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kanazawa, 920-8640, Japan
| | - Yasuko Kitao
- Department of Neuroanatomy, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kanazawa, 920-8640, Japan
| | - Osamu Hori
- Department of Neuroanatomy, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kanazawa, 920-8640, Japan
| | - Yoshitake Shiraishi
- Department of Functional Anatomy, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kanazawa, 920-8640, Japan
| | - Noriyuki Ozaki
- Department of Functional Anatomy, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kanazawa, 920-8640, Japan
| | - Yu Shimizu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Vascular Biology, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kanazawa, 920-8640, Japan.,Department of Neurosurgery, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kanazawa, 920-8640, Japan
| | - Tomoya Kamide
- Department of Neuroanatomy, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kanazawa, 920-8640, Japan.,Department of Neurosurgery, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kanazawa, 920-8640, Japan
| | - Akifumi Yoshikawa
- Department of Neuroanatomy, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kanazawa, 920-8640, Japan.,Department of Neurosurgery, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kanazawa, 920-8640, Japan
| | - Yasuhiko Hayashi
- Department of Neurosurgery, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kanazawa, 920-8640, Japan
| | - Mitsutoshi Nakada
- Department of Neurosurgery, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kanazawa, 920-8640, Japan
| | - Olga Lopatina
- Department of Basic Research on Social Recognition and Memory, Research Centre for Child Mental Development, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, 920-8640, Japan.,Laboratory for Social Brain Studies, Research Institute of Molecular Medicine and Pathobiochemistry, and Department of Biochemistry, Krasnoyarsk State Medical University, Krasnoyarsk, Russia, 660022
| | - Maria Gerasimenko
- Department of Basic Research on Social Recognition and Memory, Research Centre for Child Mental Development, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, 920-8640, Japan
| | - Yulia Komleva
- Laboratory for Social Brain Studies, Research Institute of Molecular Medicine and Pathobiochemistry, and Department of Biochemistry, Krasnoyarsk State Medical University, Krasnoyarsk, Russia, 660022
| | - Natalia Malinovskaya
- Laboratory for Social Brain Studies, Research Institute of Molecular Medicine and Pathobiochemistry, and Department of Biochemistry, Krasnoyarsk State Medical University, Krasnoyarsk, Russia, 660022
| | - Alla B Salmina
- Department of Basic Research on Social Recognition and Memory, Research Centre for Child Mental Development, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, 920-8640, Japan.,Laboratory for Social Brain Studies, Research Institute of Molecular Medicine and Pathobiochemistry, and Department of Biochemistry, Krasnoyarsk State Medical University, Krasnoyarsk, Russia, 660022
| | - Masahide Asano
- Division of Transgenic Animal Science, Kanazawa University Advanced Science Research Centre, Kanazawa, 920-8640, Japan
| | - Katsuhiko Nishimori
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Tohoku University, Sendai, 981-8555, Japan
| | - Steven E Shoelson
- Joslin Diabetes Centre & Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Hiroshi Yamamoto
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Vascular Biology, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kanazawa, 920-8640, Japan.,Komatsu University, Komatsu, 923-0921, Japan
| | - Haruhiro Higashida
- Department of Basic Research on Social Recognition and Memory, Research Centre for Child Mental Development, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, 920-8640, Japan. .,Laboratory for Social Brain Studies, Research Institute of Molecular Medicine and Pathobiochemistry, and Department of Biochemistry, Krasnoyarsk State Medical University, Krasnoyarsk, Russia, 660022.
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Neuronal identity control by terminal selectors in worms, flies, and chordates. Curr Opin Neurobiol 2019; 56:97-105. [PMID: 30665084 DOI: 10.1016/j.conb.2018.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 109] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2018] [Revised: 12/10/2018] [Accepted: 12/15/2018] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
How do post-mitotic neurons acquire and maintain their terminal identity? Genetic mutant analysis in the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans has revealed common molecular programs that control neuronal identity. Neuron type-specific combinations of transcription factors, called terminal selectors, act as master regulatory factors to initiate and maintain terminal identity programs through direct regulation of neuron type-specific effector genes. We will provide here an update on recent studies that solidify the terminal selector concept in worms, flies and chordates. We will also describe how the terminal selector concept has been expanded by recent work in C. elegans to explain neuronal subtype diversification and plasticity of neuronal identity.
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40
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Tremblay M, Sanchez-Ferras O, Bouchard M. GATA transcription factors in development and disease. Development 2018; 145:145/20/dev164384. [DOI: 10.1242/dev.164384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 97] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT
The GATA family of transcription factors is of crucial importance during embryonic development, playing complex and widespread roles in cell fate decisions and tissue morphogenesis. GATA proteins are essential for the development of tissues derived from all three germ layers, including the skin, brain, gonads, liver, hematopoietic, cardiovascular and urogenital systems. The crucial activity of GATA factors is underscored by the fact that inactivating mutations in most GATA members lead to embryonic lethality in mouse models and are often associated with developmental diseases in humans. In this Primer, we discuss the unique and redundant functions of GATA proteins in tissue morphogenesis, with an emphasis on their regulation of lineage specification and early organogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mathieu Tremblay
- Goodman Cancer Research Centre and Department of Biochemistry, McGill University, Montreal H3A 1A3, Canada
| | - Oraly Sanchez-Ferras
- Goodman Cancer Research Centre and Department of Biochemistry, McGill University, Montreal H3A 1A3, Canada
| | - Maxime Bouchard
- Goodman Cancer Research Centre and Department of Biochemistry, McGill University, Montreal H3A 1A3, Canada
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41
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Iwasaki K, Komiya H, Kakizaki M, Miyoshi C, Abe M, Sakimura K, Funato H, Yanagisawa M. Ablation of Central Serotonergic Neurons Decreased REM Sleep and Attenuated Arousal Response. Front Neurosci 2018; 12:535. [PMID: 30131671 PMCID: PMC6090062 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2018.00535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2018] [Accepted: 07/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Sleep/wake behavior is regulated by distinct groups of neurons, such as dopaminergic, noradrenergic, and orexinergic neurons. Although monoaminergic neurons are usually considered to be wake-promoting, the role of serotonergic neurons in sleep/wake behavior remains inconclusive because of the effect of serotonin (5-HT)-deficiency on brain development and the compensation for inborn 5-HT deficiency by other sleep/wake-regulating neurons. Here, we performed selective ablation of central 5-HT neurons in the newly developed Rosa-diphtheria toxin receptor (DTR)-tdTomato mouse line that was crossed with Pet1Cre/+ mice to examine the role of 5-HT neurons in the sleep/wake behavior of adult mice. Intracerebroventricular administration of diphtheria toxin completely ablated tdTomato-positive cells in Pet1Cre/+; Rosa-DTR-tdTomato mice. Electroencephalogram/electromyogram-based sleep/wake analysis demonstrated that central 5-HT neuron ablation in adult mice decreased the time spent in rapid eye movement (REM) sleep, which was associated with fewer transitions from non-REM (NREM) sleep to REM sleep than in control mice. Central 5-HT neuron-ablated mice showed attenuated wake response to a novel environment and increased theta power during wakefulness compared to control mice. The current findings indicated that adult 5-HT neurons work to support wakefulness and regulate REM sleep time through a biased transition from NREM sleep to REM sleep.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kanako Iwasaki
- International Institute for Integrative Sleep Medicine (WPI-IIIS), University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Haruna Komiya
- International Institute for Integrative Sleep Medicine (WPI-IIIS), University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Miyo Kakizaki
- International Institute for Integrative Sleep Medicine (WPI-IIIS), University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Chika Miyoshi
- International Institute for Integrative Sleep Medicine (WPI-IIIS), University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Manabu Abe
- Department of Cellular Neurobiology, Brain Research Institute, Niigata University, Niigata, Japan
| | - Kenji Sakimura
- Department of Cellular Neurobiology, Brain Research Institute, Niigata University, Niigata, Japan
| | - Hiromasa Funato
- International Institute for Integrative Sleep Medicine (WPI-IIIS), University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan.,Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Toho University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masashi Yanagisawa
- International Institute for Integrative Sleep Medicine (WPI-IIIS), University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan.,Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States.,Life Science Center, Tsukuba Advanced Research Alliance, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
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42
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Montgomery JE, Wahlstrom-Helgren S, Wiggin TD, Corwin BM, Lillesaar C, Masino MA. Intraspinal serotonergic signaling suppresses locomotor activity in larval zebrafish. Dev Neurobiol 2018; 78:10.1002/dneu.22606. [PMID: 29923318 PMCID: PMC6301152 DOI: 10.1002/dneu.22606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2018] [Revised: 04/27/2018] [Accepted: 05/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Serotonin (5HT) is a modulator of many vital processes in the spinal cord (SC), such as production of locomotion. In the larval zebrafish, intraspinal serotonergic neurons (ISNs) are a source of spinal 5HT that, despite the availability of numerous genetic and optical tools, has not yet been directly shown to affect the spinal locomotor network. In order to better understand the functions of ISNs, we used a combination of strategies to investigate ISN development, morphology, and function. ISNs were optically isolated from one another by photoconverting Kaede fluorescent protein in individual cells, permitting morphometric analysis as they developed in vivo. ISN neurite lengths and projection distances exhibited the greatest amount of change between 3 and 4 days post-fertilization (dpf) and appeared to stabilize by 5 dpf. Overall ISN innervation patterns were similar between cells and between SC regions. ISNs possessed rostrally-extending neurites resembling dendrites and a caudally-extending neurite resembling an axon, which terminated with an enlarged growth cone-like structure. Interestingly, these enlargements remained even after neurite extension had ceased. Functionally, application of exogenous 5HT reduced spinally-produced motor nerve bursting. A selective 5HT reuptake inhibitor and ISN activation with channelrhodopsin-2 each produced similar effects to 5HT, indicating that spinally-intrinsic 5HT originating from the ISNs has an inhibitory effect on the spinal locomotor network. Taken together this suggests that the ISNs are morphologically mature by 5 dpf and supports their involvement in modulating the activity of the spinal locomotor network. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Develop Neurobiol, 2018.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Timothy D. Wiggin
- University of Minnesota, Department of Neuroscience, Minneapolis, MN
| | | | - Christina Lillesaar
- University of Würzburg, Department of Physiological Chemistry, Biocenter, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Mark A. Masino
- University of Minnesota, Department of Neuroscience, Minneapolis, MN
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Deneris E, Gaspar P. Serotonin neuron development: shaping molecular and structural identities. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS. DEVELOPMENTAL BIOLOGY 2018; 7:10.1002/wdev.301. [PMID: 29072810 PMCID: PMC5746461 DOI: 10.1002/wdev.301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2017] [Revised: 08/03/2017] [Accepted: 08/24/2017] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
The continuing fascination with serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine, 5-HT) as a nervous system chemical messenger began with its discovery in the brains of mammals in 1953. Among the many reasons for this decades-long interest is that the small numbers of neurons that make 5-HT influence the excitability of neural circuits in nearly every region of the brain and spinal cord. A further reason is that 5-HT dysfunction has been linked to a range of psychiatric and neurological disorders many of which have a neurodevelopmental component. This has led to intense interest in understanding 5-HT neuron development with the aim of determining whether early alterations in their generation lead to brain disease susceptibility. Here, we present an overview of the neuroanatomical organization of vertebrate 5-HT neurons, their neurogenesis, and prodigious axonal architectures, which enables the expansive reach of 5-HT neuromodulation in the central nervous system. We review recent findings that have revealed the molecular basis for the tremendous diversity of 5-HT neuron subtypes, the impact of environmental factors on 5-HT neuron development, and how 5-HT axons are topographically organized through disparate signaling pathways. We summarize studies of the gene regulatory networks that control the differentiation, maturation, and maintenance of 5-HT neurons. These studies show that the regulatory factors controlling acquisition of 5-HT-type transmitter identity continue to play critical roles in the functional maturation and the maintenance of 5-HT neurons. New insights are presented into how continuously expressed 5-HT regulatory factors control 5-HT neurons at different stages of life and how the regulatory networks themselves are maintained. WIREs Dev Biol 2018, 7:e301. doi: 10.1002/wdev.301 This article is categorized under: Nervous System Development > Vertebrates: General Principles Gene Expression and Transcriptional Hierarchies > Gene Networks and Genomics Gene Expression and Transcriptional Hierarchies > Cellular Differentiation Nervous System Development > Secondary: Vertebrates: Regional Development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evan Deneris
- Department of Neurosciences, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Patricia Gaspar
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), UMR-S839, Paris, France
- Sorbonne Université, Paris, France
- Institut du Fer à Moulin, Campus Jussieu, Paris, France
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Association of genetic variations in the serotonin and dopamine systems with aggressive behavior in the Chinese adolescent population: Single- and multiple-risk genetic variants. J Affect Disord 2018; 225:374-380. [PMID: 28846959 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2017.08.052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2016] [Revised: 06/22/2017] [Accepted: 08/14/2017] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Genetic predisposition is an important factor leading to aggressive behavior. However, the relationship between genetic polymorphisms and aggressive behavior has not been elucidated. METHODS We identified candidate genes located in the dopaminergic and serotonin system (DRD3, DRD4, and FEV) that had been previously reported to be associated with aggressive behavior. We investigated 14 tag single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) using a multi-analytic strategy combining logistic regression (LR) and classification and regression tree (CART) to explore higher-order interactions between these SNPs and aggressive behavior in 318 patients and 558 controls. RESULTS Both LR and CART analyses suggested that the rs16859448 polymorphism is the strongest individual factor associated with aggressive behavior risk. In CART analysis, individuals carrying the combined genotypes of rs16859448TT/GT-rs11246228CT/TT-rs3773679TT had the highest risk, while rs16859448GG-rs2134655CT had the lowest risk (OR = 5.25, 95% CI: 2.53-10.86). CONCLUSION This study adds to the growing evidence on the association of single- and multiple-risk variants in DRD3, DRD4, and FEV with aggressive behavior in Chinese adolescents. However, the aggressive behavior scale used to diagnose aggression in this study did not account for comorbid conditions; therefore, further studies are needed to confirm our observations.
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Clare AJ, Wicky HE, Empson RM, Hughes SM. RNA-Sequencing Analysis Reveals a Regulatory Role for Transcription Factor Fezf2 in the Mature Motor Cortex. Front Mol Neurosci 2017; 10:283. [PMID: 28936162 PMCID: PMC5594072 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2017.00283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2017] [Accepted: 08/22/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Forebrain embryonic zinc finger (Fezf2) encodes a transcription factor essential for the specification of layer 5 projection neurons (PNs) in the developing cerebral cortex. As with many developmental transcription factors, Fezf2 continues to be expressed into adulthood, suggesting it remains crucial to the maintenance of neuronal phenotypes. Despite the continued expression, a function has yet to be explored for Fezf2 in the PNs of the developed cortex. Here, we investigated the role of Fezf2 in mature neurons, using lentiviral-mediated delivery of a shRNA to conditionally knockdown the expression of Fezf2 in the mouse primary motor cortex (M1). RNA-sequencing analysis of Fezf2-reduced M1 revealed significant changes to the transcriptome, identifying a regulatory role for Fezf2 in the mature M1. Kyoto Encyclopedia Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analyses of Fezf2-regulated genes indicated a role in neuronal signaling and plasticity, with significant enrichment of neuroactive ligand-receptor interaction, cell adhesion molecules and calcium signaling pathways. Gene Ontology analysis supported a functional role for Fezf2-regulated genes in neuronal transmission and additionally indicated an importance in the regulation of behavior. Using the mammalian phenotype ontology database, we identified a significant overrepresentation of Fezf2-regulated genes associated with specific behavior phenotypes, including associative learning, social interaction, locomotor activation and hyperactivity. These roles were distinct from that of Fezf2-regulated genes identified in development, indicating a dynamic transition in Fezf2 function. Together our findings demonstrate a regulatory role for Fezf2 in the mature brain, with Fezf2-regulated genes having functional roles in sustaining normal neuronal and behavioral phenotypes. These results support the hypothesis that developmental transcription factors are important for maintaining neuron transcriptomes and that disruption of their expression could contribute to the progression of disease phenotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alison J Clare
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of OtagoDunedin, New Zealand.,Brain Health Research Centre, University of OtagoDunedin, New Zealand.,Genetics Otago, University of OtagoDunedin, New Zealand
| | - Hollie E Wicky
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of OtagoDunedin, New Zealand.,Brain Health Research Centre, University of OtagoDunedin, New Zealand.,Genetics Otago, University of OtagoDunedin, New Zealand
| | - Ruth M Empson
- Brain Health Research Centre, University of OtagoDunedin, New Zealand.,Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of OtagoDunedin, New Zealand
| | - Stephanie M Hughes
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of OtagoDunedin, New Zealand.,Brain Health Research Centre, University of OtagoDunedin, New Zealand.,Genetics Otago, University of OtagoDunedin, New Zealand
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Adult Brain Serotonin Deficiency Causes Hyperactivity, Circadian Disruption, and Elimination of Siestas. J Neurosci 2017; 36:9828-42. [PMID: 27656022 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.1469-16.2016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2016] [Accepted: 08/03/2016] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
UNLABELLED Serotonin (5-HT) is a crucial neuromodulator linked to many psychiatric disorders. However, after more than 60 years of study, its role in behavior remains poorly understood, in part because of a lack of methods to target 5-HT synthesis specifically in the adult brain. Here, we have developed a genetic approach that reproducibly achieves near-complete elimination of 5-HT synthesis from the adult ascending 5-HT system by stereotaxic injection of an adeno-associated virus expressing Cre recombinase (AAV-Cre) into the midbrain/pons of mice carrying a loxP-conditional tryptophan hydroxylase 2 (Tph2) allele. We investigated the behavioral effects of deficient brain 5-HT synthesis and discovered a unique composite phenotype. Surprisingly, adult 5-HT deficiency did not affect anxiety-like behavior, but resulted in a robust hyperactivity phenotype in novel and home cage environments. Moreover, loss of 5-HT led to an altered pattern of circadian behavior characterized by an advance in the onset and a delay in the offset of daily activity, thus revealing a requirement for adult 5-HT in the control of daily activity patterns. Notably, after normalizing for hyperactivity, we found that the normal prolonged break in nocturnal activity (siesta), a period of rapid eye movement (REM) and non-REM sleep, was absent in all animals in which 5-HT deficiency was verified. Our findings identify adult 5-HT as a requirement for siestas, implicate adult 5-HT in sleep-wake homeostasis, and highlight the importance of our adult-specific 5-HT-synthesis-targeting approach in understanding 5-HT's role in controlling behavior. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Serotonin (5-HT) is a crucial neuromodulator, yet its role in behavior remains poorly understood, in part because of a lack of methods to target specifically adult brain 5-HT synthesis. We developed an approach that reproducibly achieves near-complete elimination of 5-HT synthesis from the adult ascending 5-HT system. Using this technique, we discovered that adult 5-HT deficiency led to a novel compound phenotype consisting of hyperactivity, disrupted circadian behavior patterns, and elimination of siestas, a period of increased sleep during the active phase. These findings highlight the importance of our approach in understanding 5-HT's role in behavior, especially in controlling activity levels, circadian behavior, and sleep-wake homeostasis, behaviors that are disrupted in many psychiatric disorders such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.
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Spencer WC, Deneris ES. Regulatory Mechanisms Controlling Maturation of Serotonin Neuron Identity and Function. Front Cell Neurosci 2017; 11:215. [PMID: 28769770 PMCID: PMC5515867 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2017.00215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2017] [Accepted: 07/05/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The brain serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine; 5-HT) system has been extensively studied for its role in normal physiology and behavior, as well as, neuropsychiatric disorders. The broad influence of 5-HT on brain function, is in part due to the vast connectivity pattern of 5-HT-producing neurons throughout the CNS. 5-HT neurons are born and terminally specified midway through embryogenesis, then enter a protracted period of maturation, where they functionally integrate into CNS circuitry and then are maintained throughout life. The transcriptional regulatory networks controlling progenitor cell generation and terminal specification of 5-HT neurons are relatively well-understood, yet the factors controlling 5-HT neuron maturation are only recently coming to light. In this review, we first provide an update on the regulatory network controlling 5-HT neuron development, then delve deeper into the properties and regulatory strategies governing 5-HT neuron maturation. In particular, we discuss the role of the 5-HT neuron terminal selector transcription factor (TF) Pet-1 as a key regulator of 5-HT neuron maturation. Pet-1 was originally shown to positively regulate genes needed for 5-HT synthesis, reuptake and vesicular transport, hence 5-HT neuron-type transmitter identity. It has now been shown to regulate, both positively and negatively, many other categories of genes in 5-HT neurons including ion channels, GPCRs, transporters, neuropeptides, and other transcription factors. Its function as a terminal selector results in the maturation of 5-HT neuron excitability, firing characteristics, and synaptic modulation by several neurotransmitters. Furthermore, there is a temporal requirement for Pet-1 in the control of postmitotic gene expression trajectories thus indicating a direct role in 5-HT neuron maturation. Proper regulation of the maturation of cellular identity is critical for normal neuronal functioning and perturbations in the gene regulatory networks controlling these processes may result in long-lasting changes in brain function in adulthood. Further study of 5-HT neuron gene regulatory networks is likely to provide additional insight into how neurons acquire their mature identities and how terminal selector-type TFs function in postmitotic vertebrate neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- William C Spencer
- Department of Neurosciences, Case Western Reserve UniversityCleveland, OH, United States
| | - Evan S Deneris
- Department of Neurosciences, Case Western Reserve UniversityCleveland, OH, United States
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New Insights Into the Roles of Retinoic Acid Signaling in Nervous System Development and the Establishment of Neurotransmitter Systems. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2016; 330:1-84. [PMID: 28215529 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ircmb.2016.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Secreted chiefly from the underlying mesoderm, the morphogen retinoic acid (RA) is well known to contribute to the specification, patterning, and differentiation of neural progenitors in the developing vertebrate nervous system. Furthermore, RA influences the subtype identity and neurotransmitter phenotype of subsets of maturing neurons, although relatively little is known about how these functions are mediated. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the roles played by RA signaling during the formation of the central and peripheral nervous systems of vertebrates and highlights its effects on the differentiation of several neurotransmitter systems. In addition, the evolutionary history of the RA signaling system is discussed, revealing both conserved properties and alternate modes of RA action. It is proposed that comparative approaches should be employed systematically to expand our knowledge of the context-dependent cellular mechanisms controlled by the multifunctional signaling molecule RA.
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Niederkofler V, Asher TE, Okaty BW, Rood BD, Narayan A, Hwa LS, Beck SG, Miczek KA, Dymecki SM. Identification of Serotonergic Neuronal Modules that Affect Aggressive Behavior. Cell Rep 2016; 17:1934-1949. [PMID: 27851959 PMCID: PMC5156533 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2016.10.063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2016] [Revised: 09/16/2016] [Accepted: 10/17/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Escalated aggression can have devastating societal consequences, yet underlying neurobiological mechanisms are poorly understood. Here, we show significantly increased inter-male mouse aggression when neurotransmission is constitutively blocked from either of two subsets of serotonergic, Pet1+ neurons: one identified by dopamine receptor D1(Drd1a)::cre-driven activity perinatally, and the other by Drd2::cre from pre-adolescence onward. Blocking neurotransmission from other Pet1+ neuron subsets of similar size and/or overlapping anatomical domains had no effect on aggression compared with controls, suggesting subtype-specific serotonergic neuron influences on aggression. Using established and novel intersectional genetic tools, we further characterized these subtypes across multiple parameters, showing both overlapping and distinct features in axonal projection targets, gene expression, electrophysiological properties, and effects on non-aggressive behaviors. Notably, Drd2::cre marked 5-HT neurons exhibited D2-dependent inhibitory responses to dopamine in slices, suggesting direct and specific interplay between inhibitory dopaminergic signaling and a serotonergic subpopulation. Thus, we identify specific serotonergic modules that shape aggression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vera Niederkofler
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, 77 Avenue Louis Pasteur, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Tedi E Asher
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, 77 Avenue Louis Pasteur, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Benjamin W Okaty
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, 77 Avenue Louis Pasteur, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Benjamin D Rood
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, 77 Avenue Louis Pasteur, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Ankita Narayan
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, 77 Avenue Louis Pasteur, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Lara S Hwa
- Department of Psychology, Tufts University, 530 Boston Avenue, Medford, MA 02155, USA
| | - Sheryl G Beck
- Departments of Anesthesiology and Critical Care and Pharmacology, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104; Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Klaus A Miczek
- Department of Psychology, Tufts University, 530 Boston Avenue, Medford, MA 02155, USA
| | - Susan M Dymecki
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, 77 Avenue Louis Pasteur, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
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50
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Haugas M, Tikker L, Achim K, Salminen M, Partanen J. Gata2 and Gata3 regulate the differentiation of serotonergic and glutamatergic neuron subtypes of the dorsal raphe. Development 2016; 143:4495-4508. [PMID: 27789623 DOI: 10.1242/dev.136614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2016] [Accepted: 10/18/2016] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Serotonergic and glutamatergic neurons of the dorsal raphe regulate many brain functions and are important for mental health. Their functional diversity is based on molecularly distinct subtypes; however, the development of this heterogeneity is poorly understood. We show that the ventral neuroepithelium of mouse anterior hindbrain is divided into specific subdomains giving rise to serotonergic neurons as well as other types of neurons and glia. The newly born serotonergic precursors are segregated into distinct subpopulations expressing vesicular glutamate transporter 3 (Vglut3) or serotonin transporter (Sert). These populations differ in their requirements for transcription factors Gata2 and Gata3, which are activated in the post-mitotic precursors. Gata2 operates upstream of Gata3 as a cell fate selector in both populations, whereas Gata3 is important for the differentiation of the Sert+ precursors and for the serotonergic identity of the Vglut3+ precursors. Similar to the serotonergic neurons, the Vglut3-expressing glutamatergic neurons, located in the central dorsal raphe, are derived from neural progenitors in the ventral hindbrain and express Pet1 Furthermore, both Gata2 and Gata3 are redundantly required for their differentiation. Our study demonstrates lineage relationships of the dorsal raphe neurons and suggests that functionally significant heterogeneity of these neurons is established early during their differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maarja Haugas
- Department of Biosciences, P.O. Box 56, Viikinkaari 9, FIN00014-University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Laura Tikker
- Department of Biosciences, P.O. Box 56, Viikinkaari 9, FIN00014-University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Kaia Achim
- EMBL Developmental Biology Unit, Meyerhofstrasse 1, Heidelberg 69117, Germany
| | - Marjo Salminen
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, P.O. Box 66, Agnes Sjobergin katu 2, FIN00014-University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Juha Partanen
- Department of Biosciences, P.O. Box 56, Viikinkaari 9, FIN00014-University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
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