1
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Sun H, Shen S, Thomas RJ, Westover MB, Zhang C. Sleep as a window to understand and regulate Alzheimer's disease: emerging roles of thalamic reticular nucleus. Neural Regen Res 2025; 20:1711-1712. [PMID: 39104106 DOI: 10.4103/nrr.nrr-d-24-00351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2024] [Accepted: 05/25/2024] [Indexed: 08/07/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Haoqi Sun
- Department of Neurology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA (Sun H, Westover MB)
| | - Shiqian Shen
- Center for Translational Pain Research, Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA (Shen S)
| | - Robert J Thomas
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA (Thomas RJ)
| | - M Brandon Westover
- Department of Neurology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA (Sun H, Westover MB)
| | - Can Zhang
- Genetics and Aging Research Unit, McCance Center for Brain Health, Mass General Institute for Neurodegenerative Disease, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA (Zhang C)
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2
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La Barbera L, Krashia P, Nobili A. How dopamine tunes parvalbumin interneurons in the hippocampus: new experimental observations in Alzheimer's disease. Neural Regen Res 2025; 20:1405-1406. [PMID: 39075905 DOI: 10.4103/nrr.nrr-d-24-00322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/31/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Livia La Barbera
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Università Campus Bio-Medico di Roma, Via Álvaro del Portillo, Rome, Italy (La Barbera L, Nobili A)
- Department of Experimental Neurosciences, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Via del Fosso di Fiorano, Rome, Italy (La Barbera L, Krashia P, Nobili A)
| | - Paraskevi Krashia
- Department of Experimental Neurosciences, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Via del Fosso di Fiorano, Rome, Italy (La Barbera L, Krashia P, Nobili A)
- Department of Science and Technology for Sustainable Development and One Health, Università Campus Bio-Medico di Roma, Via Álvaro del Portillo, Rome, Italy (Krashia P)
| | - Annalisa Nobili
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Università Campus Bio-Medico di Roma, Via Álvaro del Portillo, Rome, Italy (La Barbera L, Nobili A)
- Department of Experimental Neurosciences, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Via del Fosso di Fiorano, Rome, Italy (La Barbera L, Krashia P, Nobili A)
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3
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Fekete Z, Weisz F, Karlócai MR, Veres JM, Andrási T, Hájos N. Synaptic communication within the microcircuits of pyramidal neurons and basket cells in the mouse prefrontal cortex. J Physiol 2024. [PMID: 39418315 DOI: 10.1113/jp286284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 09/06/2024] [Indexed: 10/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Basket cells are inhibitory interneurons in cortical structures with the potential to efficiently control the activity of their postsynaptic partners. Although their contribution to higher order cognitive functions associated with the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) relies on the characteristics of their synaptic connections, the way that they are embedded into local circuits is still not fully uncovered. Here, we determined the synaptic properties of excitatory and inhibitory connections between pyramidal neurons (PNs), cholecystokinin-containing basket cells (CCKBCs) and parvalbumin-containing basket cells (PVBCs) in the mouse mPFC. By performing paired recordings, we revealed that PVBCs receive larger unitary excitatory postsynaptic currents from PNs with shorter latency and faster kinetic properties compared to events evoked in CCKBCs. Also, unitary inhibitory postsynaptic currents in PNs were more reliably evoked by PVBCs than by CCKBCs, yet the former connections showed profound short-term depression. Moreover, we demonstrated that CCKBCs and PVBCs in the mPFC are connected with each other. Because alterations in PVBC function have been linked to neurological and psychiatric conditions such as Alzheimer's disease and schizophrenia and CCKBC vulnerability might play a role in mood disorders, a deeper understanding of the general features of basket cell synapses could serve as a reference point for future investigations with therapeutic objectives. KEY POINTS: Cholecystokinin- (CCKBCs) and parvalbumin-expressing basket cells (PVBCs) have distinct passive and active membrane properties. Pyramidal neurons give rise to larger unitary excitatory postsynaptic currents in PVBCs compared to events in CCKBCs. Unitary inhibitory postsynaptic currents in pyramidal neurons are more reliably evoked by PVBCs than by CCKBCs. Basket cells form chemical synapses and gap junctions with their own cell type. The two basket cell types are connected with each other.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zsuzsanna Fekete
- Institute of Experimental Medicine, Budapest, Hungary
- János Szentágothai School of Neurosciences, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Filippo Weisz
- Institute of Experimental Medicine, Budapest, Hungary
| | | | - Judit M Veres
- Institute of Experimental Medicine, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Tibor Andrási
- Institute of Experimental Medicine, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Norbert Hájos
- Institute of Experimental Medicine, Budapest, Hungary
- The Linda and Jack Gill Center for Molecular Bioscience, Indiana University Bloomington, Indiana, USA
- Program in Neuroscience, Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana University Bloomington, Indiana, USA
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4
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O'Neill N, Stein TD, Olayinka OA, Empawi JA, Hu J, Tong T, Zhang X, Farrer LA. Cognitive resilience to Alzheimer's disease characterized by cell-type abundance. Alzheimers Dement 2024; 20:6910-6921. [PMID: 39262221 DOI: 10.1002/alz.14187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2024] [Revised: 07/03/2024] [Accepted: 07/09/2024] [Indexed: 09/13/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The molecular basis of cognitive resilience (CR) among pathologically confirmed Alzheimer's disease (AD) cases is not well understood. METHODS Abundance of 13 cell types and neuronal subtypes in brain bulk RNA-seq data from the anterior caudate, dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC), and posterior cingulate cortex (PCC) obtained from 434 AD cases, 318 cognitively resilient AD cases, and 188 controls in the Religious Orders Study and Rush Memory and Aging Project was estimated by deconvolution. RESULTS PVALB+ neuron abundance was negatively associated with cognitive status and tau pathology in the DLPFC and PCC (Padj < 0.001) and the most reduced neuronal subtype in AD cases compared to controls in DLPFC (Padj = 8.4 × 10-7) and PCC (Padj = 0.0015). We identified genome-wide significant association of neuron abundance with TMEM106B single nucleotide polymorphism rs13237518 in PCC (p = 6.08 × 10-12). rs13237518 was also associated with amyloid beta (p = 0.0085) and tangles (p = 0.0073). DISCUSSION High abundance of PVALB+ neurons may be a marker of CR. TMEM106B variants may influence CR independent of AD pathology. HIGHLIGHTS Neuron retention and a lack of astrocytosis are highly predictive of Alzheimer's disease (AD) resilience. PVALB+ GABAergic and RORB+ glutamatergic neurons are associated with cognitive status. A TMEM106B single nucleotide polymorphism is related to lower AD risk, higher neuron count, and increased AD pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas O'Neill
- Bioinformatics Program, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Medicine (Section of Biomedical Genetics), Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Thor D Stein
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- VA Bedford Healthcare System, Bedford, Massachusetts, USA
- VA Boston Healthcare Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Oluwatosin A Olayinka
- Bioinformatics Program, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Medicine (Section of Biomedical Genetics), Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jenny A Empawi
- Department of Medicine (Section of Biomedical Genetics), Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Junming Hu
- Bioinformatics Program, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Medicine (Section of Biomedical Genetics), Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Tong Tong
- Bioinformatics Program, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Medicine (Section of Biomedical Genetics), Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Xiaoling Zhang
- Bioinformatics Program, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Medicine (Section of Biomedical Genetics), Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Biostatistics, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Lindsay A Farrer
- Bioinformatics Program, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Medicine (Section of Biomedical Genetics), Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Biostatistics, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Neurology, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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Brooks IA, Jedrasiak-Cape I, Rybicki-Kler C, Ekins TG, Ahmed OJ. Unique Transcriptomic Cell Types of the Granular Retrosplenial Cortex are Preserved Across Mice and Rats Despite Dramatic Changes in Key Marker Genes. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.09.17.613545. [PMID: 39345493 PMCID: PMC11429737 DOI: 10.1101/2024.09.17.613545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/01/2024]
Abstract
The granular retrosplenial cortex (RSG) supports key functions ranging from memory consolidation to spatial navigation. The mouse RSG contains several cell types that are remarkably distinct from those found in other cortical regions. This includes the physiologically and transcriptomically unique low rheobase neuron that is the dominant cell-type in RSG layers 2/3 (L2/3 LR), as well as the similarly exclusive pyramidal cells that comprise much of RSG layer 5a (L5a RSG). While the functions of the RSG are extensively studied in both mice and rats, it remains unknown if the transcriptomically unique cell types of the mouse RSG are evolutionarily conserved in rats. Here, we show that mouse and rat RSG not only contain the same cell types, but key subtypes including the L2/3 LR and L5a RSG neurons are amplified in their representations in rats compared to mice. This preservation of cell types in male and female rats happens despite dramatic changes in key cell-type-specific marker genes, with the Scnn1a expression that selectively tags mouse L5a RSG neurons completely absent in rats. Important for Cre-driver line development, we identify alternative, cross-species genes that can be used to selectively target the cell types of the RSG in both mice and rats. Our results show that the unique cell types of the RSG are evolutionarily conserved across millions of years of evolution between mice and rats, but also emphasize stark species-specific differences in marker genes that need to be considered when making cell-type-specific transgenic lines of mice versus rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isla A.W. Brooks
- Dept. of Psychology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
| | | | - Chloe Rybicki-Kler
- Dept. of Psychology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
| | - Tyler G. Ekins
- Dept. of Psychology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
| | - Omar J. Ahmed
- Dept. of Psychology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
- Dept. of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
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6
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Fin NSH, Yip A, Teo L, Homman-Ludiye J, Bourne JA. Developmental dynamics of the prefrontal cortical SST and PV interneuron networks: Insights from the monkey highlight human-specific features. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.07.10.602904. [PMID: 39026896 PMCID: PMC11257587 DOI: 10.1101/2024.07.10.602904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/20/2024]
Abstract
The primate prefrontal cortex (PFC) is a quintessential hub of cognitive functions. Amidst its intricate neural architecture, the interplay of distinct neuronal subtypes, notably parvalbumin (PV) and somatostatin (SST) interneurons (INs), emerge as a cornerstone in sculpting cortical circuitry and governing cognitive processes. While considerable strides have been made in elucidating the developmental trajectory of these neurons in rodent models, our understanding of their postmigration developmental dynamics in primates still needs to be studied. Disruptions to this developmental trajectory can compromise IN function, impairing signal gating and circuit modulation within cortical networks. This study examined the expression patterns of PV and SST, ion transporter KCC2, and ion channel subtypes Kv3.1b, and Nav1.1 - associated with morphophysiological stages of development in the postnatal marmoset monkey in different frontal cortical regions (granular areas 8aD, 8aV, 9, 46; agranular areas 11, 47L). Our results demonstrate that the maturation of PV+ INs extends into adolescence, characterized by discrete epochs associated with specific expression dynamics of ion channel subtypes. Interestingly, we observed a postnatal decrease in SST interneurons, contrasting with studies in rodents. This endeavor broadens our comprehension of primate cortical development and furnishes invaluable insights into the etiology and pathophysiology of neurodevelopmental disorders characterized by perturbations in PV and SST IN function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nafiseh S Hosseini Fin
- Australian Regenerative Medicine Institute, 15 Innovation Walk, Monash University, Clayton Vic., 3800, Australia
| | - Adrian Yip
- Australian Regenerative Medicine Institute, 15 Innovation Walk, Monash University, Clayton Vic., 3800, Australia
| | - Leon Teo
- Australian Regenerative Medicine Institute, 15 Innovation Walk, Monash University, Clayton Vic., 3800, Australia
| | - Jihane Homman-Ludiye
- Monash MicroImaging, 15 Innovation Walk, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia
| | - James A Bourne
- Section on Cellular and Cognitive Neurodevelopment, Systems Neurodevelopment Laboratory, National Institute of Mental Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
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Ganesh A, Choudhury W, Coutellier L. Early spatial recognition memory deficits in 5XFAD female mice are associated with disruption of prefrontal parvalbumin neurons. Brain Res 2024; 1841:149122. [PMID: 39009061 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2024.149122] [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: 06/06/2024] [Revised: 07/11/2024] [Accepted: 07/12/2024] [Indexed: 07/17/2024]
Abstract
Women have a two-fold increased risk of developing Alzheimer's disease (AD) than men, yet the underlying mechanisms of this sex-specific vulnerability remain unknown. Here, we aimed at determining in the 5XFAD mouse model whether deficits in prefrontal-dependent cognitive functions, which are impacted in the preclinical stages of AD, appear earlier in females, and whether these cognitive deficits are associated with alterations in the activity of prefrontal parvalbumin (PV)-neurons that regulate prefrontal circuits activity. We observed that 3.5-month-old 5XFAD females, but not males, display impairments in spatial short-term recognition memory, a function that relies on the integrity of the prefrontal cortex. Hippocampal-dependent cognitive functions were intact in both sexes. We then observed that 5XFAD females have more prefrontal PV neurons expressing the marker of chronic activity FosB; this was inversely correlated with prefrontal-dependent cognitive performances. Our findings show for the first time sex-specific, early deregulation of prefrontal PV neurons activity, which is associated with early appearance of prefrontal-dependent cognitive functions in 5XFAD females providing a potential novel mechanism to the increased risk to AD in females.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anish Ganesh
- Department of Psychology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Wajih Choudhury
- Department of Psychology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Laurence Coutellier
- Department of Psychology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA; Department of Neuroscience, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA.
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8
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Hadler MD, Alle H, Geiger JRP. Parvalbumin interneuron cell-to-network plasticity: mechanisms and therapeutic avenues. Trends Pharmacol Sci 2024; 45:586-601. [PMID: 38763836 DOI: 10.1016/j.tips.2024.04.003] [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: 03/31/2024] [Revised: 04/16/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/21/2024]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) and schizophrenia (SCZ) represent two major neuropathological conditions with a high disease burden. Despite their distinct etiologies, patients suffering from AD or SCZ share a common burden of disrupted memory functions unattended by current therapies. Recent preclinical analyses highlight cell-type-specific contributions of parvalbumin interneurons (PVIs), particularly the plasticity of their cellular excitability, towards intact neuronal network function (cell-to-network plasticity) and memory performance. Here we argue that deficits of PVI cell-to-network plasticity may underlie memory deficits in AD and SCZ, and we explore two therapeutic avenues: the targeting of PVI-specific neuromodulation, including by neuropeptides, and the recruitment of network synchrony in the gamma frequency range (40 Hz) by external stimulation. We finally propose that these approaches be merged under consideration of recent insights into human brain physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael D Hadler
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin Institute of Health, Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany; Institute of Neurophysiology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany.
| | - Henrik Alle
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin Institute of Health, Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany; Institute of Neurophysiology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Jörg R P Geiger
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin Institute of Health, Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, Germany; Institute of Neurophysiology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany.
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9
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Szegedi V, Tiszlavicz Á, Furdan S, Douida A, Bakos E, Barzo P, Tamas G, Szucs A, Lamsa K. Aging-associated weakening of the action potential in fast-spiking interneurons in the human neocortex. J Biotechnol 2024; 389:1-12. [PMID: 38697361 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiotec.2024.04.020] [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: 01/29/2024] [Revised: 04/24/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024]
Abstract
Aging is associated with the slowdown of neuronal processing and cognitive performance in the brain; however, the exact cellular mechanisms behind this deterioration in humans are poorly elucidated. Recordings in human acute brain slices prepared from tissue resected during brain surgery enable the investigation of neuronal changes with age. Although neocortical fast-spiking cells are widely implicated in neuronal network activities underlying cognitive processes, they are vulnerable to neurodegeneration. Herein, we analyzed the electrical properties of 147 fast-spiking interneurons in neocortex samples resected in brain surgery from 106 patients aged 11-84 years. By studying the electrophysiological features of action potentials and passive membrane properties, we report that action potential overshoot significantly decreases and spike half-width increases with age. Moreover, the action potential maximum-rise speed (but not the repolarization speed or the afterhyperpolarization amplitude) significantly changed with age, suggesting a particular weakening of the sodium channel current generated in the soma. Cell passive membrane properties measured as the input resistance, membrane time constant, and cell capacitance remained unaffected by senescence. Thus, we conclude that the action potential in fast-spiking interneurons shows a significant weakening in the human neocortex with age. This may contribute to the deterioration of cortical functions by aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Viktor Szegedi
- Hungarian Centre of Excellence for Molecular Medicine Research Group for Human Neuron Physiology and Therapy, Szeged, Hungary; Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Neuroscience, University of Szeged, Hungary
| | - Ádám Tiszlavicz
- Hungarian Centre of Excellence for Molecular Medicine Research Group for Human Neuron Physiology and Therapy, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Szabina Furdan
- Hungarian Centre of Excellence for Molecular Medicine Research Group for Human Neuron Physiology and Therapy, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Abdennour Douida
- Hungarian Centre of Excellence for Molecular Medicine Research Group for Human Neuron Physiology and Therapy, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Emoke Bakos
- Hungarian Centre of Excellence for Molecular Medicine Research Group for Human Neuron Physiology and Therapy, Szeged, Hungary; Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Neuroscience, University of Szeged, Hungary
| | - Pal Barzo
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Szeged, Hungary
| | - Gabor Tamas
- MTA-SZTE Research Group for Cortical Microcircuits, Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Neuroscience, University of Szeged, Hungary
| | - Attila Szucs
- Neuronal Cell Biology Research Group, Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Karri Lamsa
- Hungarian Centre of Excellence for Molecular Medicine Research Group for Human Neuron Physiology and Therapy, Szeged, Hungary; Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Neuroscience, University of Szeged, Hungary.
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10
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Leitch B. Parvalbumin Interneuron Dysfunction in Neurological Disorders: Focus on Epilepsy and Alzheimer's Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:5549. [PMID: 38791587 PMCID: PMC11122153 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25105549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2024] [Revised: 05/11/2024] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Parvalbumin expressing (PV+) GABAergic interneurons are fast spiking neurons that provide powerful but relatively short-lived inhibition to principal excitatory cells in the brain. They play a vital role in feedforward and feedback synaptic inhibition, preventing run away excitation in neural networks. Hence, their dysfunction can lead to hyperexcitability and increased susceptibility to seizures. PV+ interneurons are also key players in generating gamma oscillations, which are synchronized neural oscillations associated with various cognitive functions. PV+ interneuron are particularly vulnerable to aging and their degeneration has been associated with cognitive decline and memory impairment in dementia and Alzheimer's disease (AD). Overall, dysfunction of PV+ interneurons disrupts the normal excitatory/inhibitory balance within specific neurocircuits in the brain and thus has been linked to a wide range of neurodevelopmental and neuropsychiatric disorders. This review focuses on the role of dysfunctional PV+ inhibitory interneurons in the generation of epileptic seizures and cognitive impairment and their potential as targets in the design of future therapeutic strategies to treat these disorders. Recent research using cutting-edge optogenetic and chemogenetic technologies has demonstrated that they can be selectively manipulated to control seizures and restore the balance of neural activity in the brains of animal models. This suggests that PV+ interneurons could be important targets in developing future treatments for patients with epilepsy and comorbid disorders, such as AD, where seizures and cognitive decline are directly linked to specific PV+ interneuron deficits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beulah Leitch
- Department of Anatomy, School of Biomedical Sciences, Brain Health Research Centre, University of Otago, Dunedin 9016, New Zealand
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11
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Olkhova EA, Smith LA, Dennis BH, Ng YS, LeBeau FEN, Gorman GS. Delineating mechanisms underlying parvalbumin neuron impairment in different neurological and neurodegenerative disorders: the emerging role of mitochondrial dysfunction. Biochem Soc Trans 2024; 52:553-565. [PMID: 38563502 PMCID: PMC11088917 DOI: 10.1042/bst20230191] [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: 11/21/2023] [Revised: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Given the current paucity of effective treatments in many neurological disorders, delineating pathophysiological mechanisms among the major psychiatric and neurodegenerative diseases may fuel the development of novel, potent treatments that target shared pathways. Recent evidence suggests that various pathological processes, including bioenergetic failure in mitochondria, can perturb the function of fast-spiking, parvalbumin-positive neurons (PV+). These inhibitory neurons critically influence local circuit regulation, the generation of neuronal network oscillations and complex brain functioning. Here, we survey PV+ cell vulnerability in the major neuropsychiatric, and neurodegenerative diseases and review associated cellular and molecular pathophysiological alterations purported to underlie disease aetiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizaveta A. Olkhova
- Wellcome Centre for Mitochondrial Research, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Framlington Place, Newcastle upon Tyne NE2 4HH, U.K
- Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Framlington Place, Newcastle upon Tyne NE2 4HH, U.K
| | - Laura A. Smith
- Wellcome Centre for Mitochondrial Research, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Framlington Place, Newcastle upon Tyne NE2 4HH, U.K
- Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Framlington Place, Newcastle upon Tyne NE2 4HH, U.K
| | - Bethany H. Dennis
- Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Framlington Place, Newcastle upon Tyne NE2 4HH, U.K
| | - Yi Shiau Ng
- Wellcome Centre for Mitochondrial Research, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Framlington Place, Newcastle upon Tyne NE2 4HH, U.K
- Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Framlington Place, Newcastle upon Tyne NE2 4HH, U.K
- NIHR Newcastle Biomedical Research Centre, Biomedical Research Building, Campus for Ageing and Vitality, Newcastle upon Tyne NE4 5PL, U.K
- NHS Highly Specialised Service for Rare Mitochondrial Disorders, Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne NE2 4HH, U.K
| | - Fiona E. N. LeBeau
- Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Framlington Place, Newcastle upon Tyne NE2 4HH, U.K
| | - Gráinne S. Gorman
- Wellcome Centre for Mitochondrial Research, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Framlington Place, Newcastle upon Tyne NE2 4HH, U.K
- Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Framlington Place, Newcastle upon Tyne NE2 4HH, U.K
- NIHR Newcastle Biomedical Research Centre, Biomedical Research Building, Campus for Ageing and Vitality, Newcastle upon Tyne NE4 5PL, U.K
- NHS Highly Specialised Service for Rare Mitochondrial Disorders, Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne NE2 4HH, U.K
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12
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Khelfaoui H, Ibaceta-Gonzalez C, Angulo MC. Functional myelin in cognition and neurodevelopmental disorders. Cell Mol Life Sci 2024; 81:181. [PMID: 38615095 PMCID: PMC11016012 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-024-05222-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2023] [Revised: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 03/30/2024] [Indexed: 04/15/2024]
Abstract
In vertebrates, oligodendrocytes (OLs) are glial cells of the central nervous system (CNS) responsible for the formation of the myelin sheath that surrounds the axons of neurons. The myelin sheath plays a crucial role in the transmission of neuronal information by promoting the rapid saltatory conduction of action potentials and providing neurons with structural and metabolic support. Saltatory conduction, first described in the peripheral nervous system (PNS), is now generally recognized as a universal evolutionary innovation to respond quickly to the environment: myelin helps us think and act fast. Nevertheless, the role of myelin in the central nervous system, especially in the brain, may not be primarily focused on accelerating conduction speed but rather on ensuring precision. Its principal function could be to coordinate various neuronal networks, promoting their synchronization through oscillations (or rhythms) relevant for specific information processing tasks. Interestingly, myelin has been directly involved in different types of cognitive processes relying on brain oscillations, and myelin plasticity is currently considered to be part of the fundamental mechanisms for memory formation and maintenance. However, despite ample evidence showing the involvement of myelin in cognition and neurodevelopmental disorders characterized by cognitive impairments, the link between myelin, brain oscillations, cognition and disease is not yet fully understood. In this review, we aim to highlight what is known and what remains to be explored to understand the role of myelin in high order brain processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hasni Khelfaoui
- Université Paris Cité, Institute of Psychiatry and Neuroscience of Paris (IPNP), INSERM U1266, 75014, Paris, France
| | - Cristobal Ibaceta-Gonzalez
- Université Paris Cité, Institute of Psychiatry and Neuroscience of Paris (IPNP), INSERM U1266, 75014, Paris, France
| | - Maria Cecilia Angulo
- Université Paris Cité, Institute of Psychiatry and Neuroscience of Paris (IPNP), INSERM U1266, 75014, Paris, France.
- GHU-PARIS Psychiatrie Et Neurosciences, Hôpital Sainte Anne, 75014, Paris, France.
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13
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Tzavellas NP, Tsamis KI, Katsenos AP, Davri AS, Simos YV, Nikas IP, Bellos S, Lekkas P, Kanellos FS, Konitsiotis S, Labrakakis C, Vezyraki P, Peschos D. Firing Alterations of Neurons in Alzheimer's Disease: Are They Merely a Consequence of Pathogenesis or a Pivotal Component of Disease Progression? Cells 2024; 13:434. [PMID: 38474398 DOI: 10.3390/cells13050434] [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: 01/14/2024] [Revised: 02/26/2024] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most prevalent neurodegenerative disorder, yet its underlying causes remain elusive. The conventional perspective on disease pathogenesis attributes alterations in neuronal excitability to molecular changes resulting in synaptic dysfunction. Early hyperexcitability is succeeded by a progressive cessation of electrical activity in neurons, with amyloid beta (Aβ) oligomers and tau protein hyperphosphorylation identified as the initial events leading to hyperactivity. In addition to these key proteins, voltage-gated sodium and potassium channels play a decisive role in the altered electrical properties of neurons in AD. Impaired synaptic function and reduced neuronal plasticity contribute to a vicious cycle, resulting in a reduction in the number of synapses and synaptic proteins, impacting their transportation inside the neuron. An understanding of these neurophysiological alterations, combined with abnormalities in the morphology of brain cells, emerges as a crucial avenue for new treatment investigations. This review aims to delve into the detailed exploration of electrical neuronal alterations observed in different AD models affecting single neurons and neuronal networks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikolaos P Tzavellas
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 451 10 Ioannina, Greece
| | - Konstantinos I Tsamis
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 451 10 Ioannina, Greece
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University Hospital of Ioannina, 455 00 Ioannina, Greece
| | - Andreas P Katsenos
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 451 10 Ioannina, Greece
| | - Athena S Davri
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 451 10 Ioannina, Greece
| | - Yannis V Simos
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 451 10 Ioannina, Greece
| | - Ilias P Nikas
- Medical School, University of Cyprus, 2029 Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Stefanos Bellos
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 451 10 Ioannina, Greece
| | - Panagiotis Lekkas
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 451 10 Ioannina, Greece
| | - Foivos S Kanellos
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 451 10 Ioannina, Greece
| | - Spyridon Konitsiotis
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University Hospital of Ioannina, 455 00 Ioannina, Greece
| | - Charalampos Labrakakis
- Department of Biological Applications and Technology, University of Ioannina, 451 10 Ioannina, Greece
| | - Patra Vezyraki
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 451 10 Ioannina, Greece
| | - Dimitrios Peschos
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 451 10 Ioannina, Greece
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14
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Park K, Kohl MM, Kwag J. Memory encoding and retrieval by retrosplenial parvalbumin interneurons are impaired in Alzheimer's disease model mice. Curr Biol 2024; 34:434-443.e4. [PMID: 38157861 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2023.12.014] [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: 07/07/2023] [Revised: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Memory deficits in Alzheimer's disease (AD) show a strong link with GABAergic interneuron dysfunctions.1,2,3,4,5,6,7 The ensemble dynamics of GABAergic interneurons represent memory encoding and retrieval,8,9,10,11,12 but how GABAergic interneuron dysfunction affects inhibitory ensemble dynamics in AD is unknown. As the retrosplenial cortex (RSC) is critical for episodic memory13,14,15,16 and is affected by β-amyloid accumulation in early AD,17,18,19,20,21 we address this question by performing Ca2+ imaging in RSC parvalbumin (PV)-expressing interneurons during a contextual fear memory task in healthy control mice and the 5XFAD mouse model of AD. We found that populations of PV interneurons responsive to aversive electric foot shocks during contextual fear conditioning (shock-responsive) significantly decreased in the 5XFAD mice, indicating dysfunctions in the recruitment of memory-encoding PV interneurons. In the control mice, ensemble activities of shock-responsive PV interneurons were selectively upregulated during the freezing epoch of the contextual fear memory retrieval, manifested by synaptic potentiation of PV interneuron-mediated inhibition. However, such changes in ensemble dynamics during memory retrieval and synaptic plasticity were both absent in the 5XFAD mice. Optogenetic silencing of PV interneurons during contextual fear conditioning in the control mice mimicked the memory deficits in the 5XFAD mice, while optogenetic activation of PV interneurons in the 5XFAD mice restored memory retrieval. These results demonstrate the critical roles of contextual fear memory-encoding PV interneurons for memory retrieval. Furthermore, synaptic dysfunction of PV interneurons may disrupt the recruitment of PV interneurons and their ensemble dynamics underlying contextual fear memory retrieval, subsequently leading to memory deficits in AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyerl Park
- Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Seoul National University, Gwanak-ro 1, Gwanak-gu, Seoul 08826, Korea; Department of Brain and Cognitive Engineering, Korea University, Anam-ro 145, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul 02841, Korea
| | - Michael M Kohl
- School of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of Glasgow, University Avenue, Glasgow G12 8QQ, UK
| | - Jeehyun Kwag
- Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Seoul National University, Gwanak-ro 1, Gwanak-gu, Seoul 08826, Korea.
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15
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Whyte-Fagundes P, Vance A, Carroll A, Figueroa F, Manukyan C, Baraban SC. Testing of putative antiseizure drugs in a preclinical Dravet syndrome zebrafish model. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.11.11.566723. [PMID: 38014342 PMCID: PMC10680609 DOI: 10.1101/2023.11.11.566723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
Dravet syndrome (DS) is a severe genetic epilepsy primarily caused by de novo mutations in a voltage-activated sodium channel gene (SCN1A). Patients face life-threatening seizures that are largely resistant to available anti-seizure medications (ASM). Preclinical DS animal models are a valuable tool to identify candidate ASMs for these patients. Among these, scn1lab mutant zebrafish exhibiting spontaneous seizure-like activity are particularly amenable to large-scale drug screening. Prior screening in a scn1lab mutant zebrafish line generated using N-ethyl-Nnitrosourea (ENU) identified valproate, stiripentol, and fenfluramine e.g., Federal Drug Administration (FDA) approved drugs with clinical application in the DS population. Successful phenotypic screening in scn1lab mutant zebrafish consists of two stages: (i) a locomotion-based assay measuring high-velocity convulsive swim behavior and (ii) an electrophysiology-based assay, using in vivo local field potential (LFP) recordings, to quantify electrographic seizure-like events. Using this strategy more than 3000 drug candidates have been screened in scn1lab zebrafish mutants. Here, we curated a list of nine additional anti-seizure drug candidates recently identified in preclinical models: 1-EBIO, AA43279, chlorzoxazone, donepezil, lisuride, mifepristone, pargyline, soticlestat and vorinostat. First-stage locomotion-based assays in scn1lab mutant zebrafish identified only 1-EBIO, chlorzoxazone and lisuride. However, second-stage LFP recording assays did not show significant suppression of spontaneous electrographic seizure activity for any of the nine anti-seizure drug candidates. Surprisingly, soticlestat induced frank electrographic seizure-like discharges in wild-type control zebrafish. Taken together, our results failed to replicate clear anti-seizure efficacy for these drug candidates highlighting a necessity for strict scientific standards in preclinical identification of ASMs.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Whyte-Fagundes
- Epilepsy Research Laboratory and Weill Institute for Neuroscience, Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - A Vance
- Epilepsy Research Laboratory and Weill Institute for Neuroscience, Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - A Carroll
- Behavioral Neurosciences, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - F Figueroa
- Epilepsy Research Laboratory and Weill Institute for Neuroscience, Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - C Manukyan
- Helen Wills Neuroscience Institute, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - S C Baraban
- Epilepsy Research Laboratory and Weill Institute for Neuroscience, Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Helen Wills Neuroscience Institute, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
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