1
|
Zheng T, Kotol D, Sjöberg R, Mitsios N, Uhlén M, Zhong W, Edfors F, Mulder J. Characterization of reduced astrocyte creatine kinase levels in Alzheimer's disease. Glia 2024; 72:1590-1603. [PMID: 38856187 DOI: 10.1002/glia.24569] [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: 03/01/2024] [Revised: 05/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024]
Abstract
The creatine-phosphocreatine cycle serves as a crucial temporary energy buffering system in the brain, regulated by brain creatine kinase (CKB), in maintaining Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) levels. Alzheimer's disease (AD) has been linked to increased CKB oxidation and loss of its regulatory function, although specific pathological processes and affected cell types remain unclear. In our study, cerebral cortex samples from individuals with AD, dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB), and age-matched controls were analyzed using antibody-based methods to quantify CKB levels and assess alterations associated with disease processes. Two independently validated antibodies exclusively labeled astrocytes in the human cerebral cortex. Combining immunofluorescence (IF) and mass spectrometry (MS), we explored CKB availability in AD and DLB cases. IF and Western blot analysis demonstrated a loss of CKB immunoreactivity correlated with increased plaque load, severity of tau pathology, and Lewy body pathology. However, transcriptomics data and targeted MS demonstrated unaltered total CKB levels, suggesting posttranslational modifications (PTMs) affecting antibody binding. This aligns with altered efficiency at proteolytic cleavage sites indicated in the targeted MS experiment. These findings highlight that the proper function of astrocytes, understudied in the brain compared with neurons, is highly affected by PTMs. Reduction in ATP levels within astrocytes can disrupt ATP-dependent processes, such as the glutamate-glutamine cycle. As CKB and the creatine-phosphocreatine cycle are important in securing constant ATP availability, PTMs in CKB, and astrocyte dysfunction may disturb homeostasis, driving excitotoxicity in the AD brain. CKB and its activity could be promising biomarkers for monitoring early-stage energy deficits in AD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tianyu Zheng
- Department of Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - David Kotol
- Department of Proteomics and Nanobiotechnology, Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Rebecca Sjöberg
- Department of Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Nicholas Mitsios
- Department of Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Mathias Uhlén
- Department of Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Proteomics and Nanobiotechnology, Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Wen Zhong
- Department of Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Fredrik Edfors
- Department of Proteomics and Nanobiotechnology, Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Jan Mulder
- Department of Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Frago LM, Gómez-Romero A, Collado-Pérez R, Argente J, Chowen JA. Synergism Between Hypothalamic Astrocytes and Neurons in Metabolic Control. Physiology (Bethesda) 2024; 39:0. [PMID: 38530221 DOI: 10.1152/physiol.00009.2024] [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: 02/01/2024] [Revised: 03/05/2024] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Astrocytes are no longer considered as passive support cells. In the hypothalamus, these glial cells actively participate in the control of appetite, energy expenditure, and the processes leading to obesity and its secondary complications. Here we briefly review studies supporting this conclusion and the advances made in understanding the underlying mechanisms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura M Frago
- Department of Endocrinology, Hospital Infantil Universitario Niño Jesús, Instituto de Investigación La Princesa, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Alfonso Gómez-Romero
- Department of Endocrinology, Hospital Infantil Universitario Niño Jesús, Instituto de Investigación La Princesa, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Roberto Collado-Pérez
- Department of Endocrinology, Hospital Infantil Universitario Niño Jesús, Instituto de Investigación La Princesa, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Jesús Argente
- Department of Endocrinology, Hospital Infantil Universitario Niño Jesús, Instituto de Investigación La Princesa, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
- IMDEA Food Institute, Campus of International Excellence, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, Madrid, Spain
| | - Julie A Chowen
- Department of Endocrinology, Hospital Infantil Universitario Niño Jesús, Instituto de Investigación La Princesa, Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
- IMDEA Food Institute, Campus of International Excellence, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, Madrid, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Wu Y, Dai Y, Lefton KB, Holy TE, Papouin T. STARDUST: a pipeline for the unbiased analysis of astrocyte regional calcium dynamics. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.04.04.588196. [PMID: 38645020 PMCID: PMC11030233 DOI: 10.1101/2024.04.04.588196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/23/2024]
Abstract
Calcium imaging has become a popular way to probe astrocyte activity, but few analysis methods holistically capture discrete calcium signals that occur across the astrocyte domain. Here, we introduce STARDUST, a pipeline for the Spatio-Temporal Analysis of Regional Dynamics & Unbiased Sorting of Transients from fluorescence recordings of astrocytes, and provide step-by-step guidelines. STARDUST yields fluorescence time-series from data-defined regions of activity and performs systematic signal detection and feature extraction, enabling the in-depth and unbiased study of astrocyte calcium signals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yifan Wu
- Washington University in St. Louis, Department of Neuroscience, St. Louis, MO 63110 USA
- Technical contact
| | - Yanchao Dai
- Washington University in St. Louis, Department of Neuroscience, St. Louis, MO 63110 USA
| | - Katheryn B. Lefton
- Washington University in St. Louis, Department of Neuroscience, St. Louis, MO 63110 USA
| | - Timothy E. Holy
- Washington University in St. Louis, Department of Neuroscience, St. Louis, MO 63110 USA
| | - Thomas Papouin
- Washington University in St. Louis, Department of Neuroscience, St. Louis, MO 63110 USA
- Lead contact
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Lefton KB, Wu Y, Yen A, Okuda T, Zhang Y, Dai Y, Walsh S, Manno R, Dougherty JD, Samineni VK, Simpson PC, Papouin T. Norepinephrine Signals Through Astrocytes To Modulate Synapses. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.05.21.595135. [PMID: 38826209 PMCID: PMC11142048 DOI: 10.1101/2024.05.21.595135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2024]
Abstract
Locus coeruleus (LC)-derived norepinephrine (NE) drives network and behavioral adaptations to environmental saliencies by reconfiguring circuit connectivity, but the underlying synapse-level mechanisms are elusive. Here, we show that NE remodeling of synaptic function is independent from its binding on neuronal receptors. Instead, astrocytic adrenergic receptors and Ca2+ dynamics fully gate the effect of NE on synapses as the astrocyte-specific deletion of adrenergic receptors and three independent astrocyte-silencing approaches all render synapses insensitive to NE. Additionally, we find that NE suppression of synaptic strength results from an ATP-derived and adenosine A1 receptor-mediated control of presynaptic efficacy. An accompanying study from Chen et al. reveals the existence of an analogous pathway in the larval zebrafish and highlights its importance to behavioral state transitions. Together, these findings fuel a new model wherein astrocytes are a core component of neuromodulatory systems and the circuit effector through which norepinephrine produces network and behavioral adaptations, challenging an 80-year-old status quo.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katheryn B Lefton
- Department of Neuroscience, Washington University in St. Louis, 63110, MO, USA
| | - Yifan Wu
- Department of Neuroscience, Washington University in St. Louis, 63110, MO, USA
| | - Allen Yen
- Department of Genetics, Washington University in St. Louis, 63110, MO, USA
| | - Takao Okuda
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University in St. Louis, 63110, MO, USA
| | - Yufen Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University in St. Louis, 63110, MO, USA
| | - Yanchao Dai
- Department of Neuroscience, Washington University in St. Louis, 63110, MO, USA
| | - Sarah Walsh
- Department of Neuroscience, Washington University in St. Louis, 63110, MO, USA
| | - Rachel Manno
- Department of Neuroscience, Washington University in St. Louis, 63110, MO, USA
| | - Joseph D Dougherty
- Department of Genetics, Washington University in St. Louis, 63110, MO, USA
| | - Vijay K Samineni
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University in St. Louis, 63110, MO, USA
| | - Paul C Simpson
- Deparment of Medicine and Research Service, San Francisco Veterans Affairs Medical Center and Cardiovascular Research Institute, University of California San Francisco, 94143, CA, USA
| | - Thomas Papouin
- Department of Neuroscience, Washington University in St. Louis, 63110, MO, USA
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Lorenzini L, Zanella L, Sannia M, Baldassarro VA, Moretti M, Cescatti M, Quadalti C, Baldi S, Bartolucci G, Di Gloria L, Ramazzotti M, Clavenzani P, Costanzini A, De Giorgio R, Amedei A, Calzà L, Giardino L. Experimental colitis in young Tg2576 mice accelerates the onset of an Alzheimer's-like clinical phenotype. Alzheimers Res Ther 2024; 16:116. [PMID: 38773640 PMCID: PMC11110243 DOI: 10.1186/s13195-024-01471-2] [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: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/24/2024]
Abstract
Systemic inflammation and neuroinflammation affect the natural course of the sporadic form of Alzheimer's disease (AD), as supported by epidemiological and preclinical data, and several epidemiological studies indicate a higher prevalence of AD in patients with inflammatory bowel disease. In this study, we explored whether colitis induced by dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) in young, presymptomatic/preplaque mice worsens and/or anticipates age-dependent cognitive impairment in Tg2576, a widely used mouse model of AD. We demonstrated that DSS colitis induced in young Tg2576 mice anticipates the onset age of learning and memory deficit in the Morris water maze test. To explore potential mechanisms behind the acceleration of cognitive decline in Tg2576 mice by DSS colitis, we focused on gut microbiota, systemic inflammation and neuroinflammation markers. We observed a Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio change in Tg2576 DSS animals comparable to that of elderly Tg2576 mice, suggesting accelerated microbiota aging in Tg2576 DSS mice, a change not observed in C57BL6 DSS mice. We also observed substantial differences between Tg2576 and WT mice in several inflammation and neuroinflammation-related parameters as early as 3 months of age, well before plaque deposition, a picture which evolved rapidly (between 3 and 5.5 months of age) in contrast to Tg2576 and WT littermates not treated with DSS. In detail, following induction of DSS colitis, WT and Tg2576 mice exhibited contrasting features in the expression level of inflammation-evoked astrocyte-associated genes in the hippocampus. No changes in microglial features occurred in the hippocampus between the experimental groups, whereas a reduced glial fibrillary acidic protein immunoreactivity was observed in Tg2576 vs. WT mice. This finding may reflect an atrophic, "loss-of-function" profile, further exacerbated by DSS where a decreased of GFAP mRNA expression level was detected. In conclusion, we suggest that as-yet unidentified peripheral mediators evoked by DSS colitis and involving the gut-brain axis emphasize an astrocyte "loss-of-function" profile present in young Tg2576 mice, leading to impaired synaptic morphological and functional integrity as a very early sign of AD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luca Lorenzini
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences (DIMEVET), University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Zanella
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences (DIMEVET), University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | | | | | - Marzia Moretti
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences (DIMEVET), University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | | | - Corinne Quadalti
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology (FaBiT), University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 41/E, Bologna, 40064, Ozzano Emilia, Italy
| | - Simone Baldi
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Gianluca Bartolucci
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health NEUROFARBA, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Leandro Di Gloria
- Department of Biomedical, Experimental and Clinical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Matteo Ramazzotti
- Department of Biomedical, Experimental and Clinical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Paolo Clavenzani
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences (DIMEVET), University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Anna Costanzini
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Roberto De Giorgio
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Amedeo Amedei
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Laura Calzà
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology (FaBiT), University of Bologna, Via Tolara di Sopra 41/E, Bologna, 40064, Ozzano Emilia, Italy.
| | - Luciana Giardino
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences (DIMEVET), University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Jia J, Chen T, Chen C, Si T, Gao C, Fang Y, Sun J, Wang J, Zhang Z. Astrocytes in preoptic area regulate acute nociception-induced hypothermia through adenosine receptors. CNS Neurosci Ther 2024; 30:e14726. [PMID: 38715251 PMCID: PMC11076694 DOI: 10.1111/cns.14726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2024] [Revised: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 04/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
AIMS The preoptic area (POA) of the hypothalamus, crucial in thermoregulation, has long been implicated in the pain process. However, whether nociceptive stimulation affects body temperature and its mechanism remains poorly studied. METHODS We used capsaicin, formalin, and surgery to induce acute nociceptive stimulation and monitored rectal temperature. Optical fiber recording, chemical genetics, confocal imaging, and pharmacology assays were employed to confirm the role and interaction of POA astrocytes and extracellular adenosine. Immunofluorescence was utilized for further validation. RESULTS Acute nociception could activate POA astrocytes and induce a decrease in body temperature. Manipulation of astrocytes allowed bidirectional control of body temperature. Furthermore, acute nociception and astrocyte activation led to increased extracellular adenosine concentration within the POA. Activation of adenosine A1 or A2A receptors contributed to decreased body temperature, while inhibition of these receptors mitigated the thermo-lowering effect of astrocytes. CONCLUSION Our results elucidate the interplay between acute nociception and thermoregulation, specifically highlighting POA astrocyte activation. This enriches our understanding of physiological responses to painful stimuli and contributes to the analysis of the anatomical basis involved in the process.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Junke Jia
- Department of Anesthesiology, Zhongnan HospitalWuhan UniversityWuhanChina
| | - Ting Chen
- Department of Anesthesiology, Zhongnan HospitalWuhan UniversityWuhanChina
| | - Chang Chen
- Department of Anesthesiology, Zhongnan HospitalWuhan UniversityWuhanChina
| | - Tengxiao Si
- Wuhan Institute of Physics and Mathematics, Innovation Academy for Precision Measurement Science and TechnologyChinese Academy of SciencesWuhanChina
| | - Chenyi Gao
- Department of Anesthesiology, Zhongnan HospitalWuhan UniversityWuhanChina
| | - Yuanyuan Fang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Zhongnan HospitalWuhan UniversityWuhanChina
| | - Jiahui Sun
- Department of Anesthesiology, Zhongnan HospitalWuhan UniversityWuhanChina
| | - Jie Wang
- Wuhan Institute of Physics and Mathematics, Innovation Academy for Precision Measurement Science and TechnologyChinese Academy of SciencesWuhanChina
- Institute of Neuroscience and Brain Diseases, Xiangyang Central HospitalAffiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Arts and ScienceXiangyangChina
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Emotions and Affective Disorders, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of MedicineSongjiang Hospital and Songjiang Research InstituteShanghaiChina
| | - Zongze Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Zhongnan HospitalWuhan UniversityWuhanChina
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Smyllie NJ, Hastings MH, Patton AP. Neuron-Astrocyte Interactions and Circadian Timekeeping in Mammals. Neuroscientist 2024:10738584241245307. [PMID: 38602223 DOI: 10.1177/10738584241245307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/12/2024]
Abstract
Almost every facet of our behavior and physiology varies predictably over the course of day and night, anticipating and adapting us to their associated opportunities and challenges. These rhythms are driven by endogenous biological clocks that, when deprived of environmental cues, can continue to oscillate within a period of approximately 1 day, hence circa-dian. Normally, retinal signals synchronize them to the cycle of light and darkness, but disruption of circadian organization, a common feature of modern lifestyles, carries considerable costs to health. Circadian timekeeping pivots around a cell-autonomous molecular clock, widely expressed across tissues. These cellular timers are in turn synchronized by the principal circadian clock of the brain: the hypothalamic suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN). Intercellular signals make the SCN network a very powerful pacemaker. Previously, neurons were considered the sole SCN timekeepers, with glial cells playing supportive roles. New discoveries have revealed, however, that astrocytes are active partners in SCN network timekeeping, with their cell-autonomous clock regulating extracellular glutamate and GABA concentrations to control circadian cycles of SCN neuronal activity. Here, we introduce circadian timekeeping at the cellular and SCN network levels before focusing on the contributions of astrocytes and their mutual interaction with neurons in circadian control in the brain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicola J Smyllie
- Medical Research Council Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Cambridge, UK
| | | | - Andrew P Patton
- Medical Research Council Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Cambridge, UK
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Zimmer TS, Orr AL, Orr AG. Astrocytes in selective vulnerability to neurodegenerative disease. Trends Neurosci 2024; 47:289-302. [PMID: 38521710 PMCID: PMC11006581 DOI: 10.1016/j.tins.2024.02.008] [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: 11/12/2023] [Revised: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024]
Abstract
Selective vulnerability of specific brain regions and cell populations is a hallmark of neurodegenerative disorders. Mechanisms of selective vulnerability involve neuronal heterogeneity, functional specializations, and differential sensitivities to stressors and pathogenic factors. In this review we discuss the growing body of literature suggesting that, like neurons, astrocytes are heterogeneous and specialized, respond to and integrate diverse inputs, and induce selective effects on brain function. In disease, astrocytes undergo specific, context-dependent changes that promote different pathogenic trajectories and functional outcomes. We propose that astrocytes contribute to selective vulnerability through maladaptive transitions to context-divergent phenotypes that impair specific brain regions and functions. Further studies on the multifaceted roles of astrocytes in disease may provide new therapeutic approaches to enhance resilience against neurodegenerative disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Till S Zimmer
- Appel Alzheimer's Disease Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA; Feil Family Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Adam L Orr
- Appel Alzheimer's Disease Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA; Feil Family Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA; Neuroscience Graduate Program, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Anna G Orr
- Appel Alzheimer's Disease Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA; Feil Family Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA; Neuroscience Graduate Program, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Xu Y, Jia B, Li J, Li Q, Luo C. The Interplay between Ferroptosis and Neuroinflammation in Central Neurological Disorders. Antioxidants (Basel) 2024; 13:395. [PMID: 38671843 PMCID: PMC11047682 DOI: 10.3390/antiox13040395] [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: 03/11/2024] [Revised: 03/23/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Central neurological disorders are significant contributors to morbidity, mortality, and long-term disability globally in modern society. These encompass neurodegenerative diseases, ischemic brain diseases, traumatic brain injury, epilepsy, depression, and more. The involved pathogenesis is notably intricate and diverse. Ferroptosis and neuroinflammation play pivotal roles in elucidating the causes of cognitive impairment stemming from these diseases. Given the concurrent occurrence of ferroptosis and neuroinflammation due to metabolic shifts such as iron and ROS, as well as their critical roles in central nervous disorders, the investigation into the co-regulatory mechanism of ferroptosis and neuroinflammation has emerged as a prominent area of research. This paper delves into the mechanisms of ferroptosis and neuroinflammation in central nervous disorders, along with their interrelationship. It specifically emphasizes the core molecules within the shared pathways governing ferroptosis and neuroinflammation, including SIRT1, Nrf2, NF-κB, Cox-2, iNOS/NO·, and how different immune cells and structures contribute to cognitive dysfunction through these mechanisms. Researchers' findings suggest that ferroptosis and neuroinflammation mutually promote each other and may represent key factors in the progression of central neurological disorders. A deeper comprehension of the common pathway between cellular ferroptosis and neuroinflammation holds promise for improving symptoms and prognosis related to central neurological disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yejia Xu
- Department of Forensic Medicine, School of Basic Medicine and Biological Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, College of Forensic Medicine, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 050017, China
| | - Bowen Jia
- Department of Forensic Medicine, School of Basic Medicine and Biological Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Jing Li
- Department of Forensic Medicine, School of Basic Medicine and Biological Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Qianqian Li
- NHC Key Laboratory of Drug Addiction Medicine, Department of Forensic Medicine, School of Forensic Medicine, Kunming Medical University, Kunming 650500, China
- School of Forensic Medicine, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu 241002, China
| | - Chengliang Luo
- Department of Forensic Medicine, School of Basic Medicine and Biological Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, College of Forensic Medicine, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 050017, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Drug Addiction Medicine, Department of Forensic Medicine, School of Forensic Medicine, Kunming Medical University, Kunming 650500, China
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Bishop M, SheikhBahei S. Brainstem astrocytes regulate breathing and may affect arousal state in rats. Physiol Behav 2024; 275:114457. [PMID: 38184289 PMCID: PMC10853942 DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2024.114457] [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: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 12/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/08/2024]
Abstract
Variations in arousal levels can impact respiratory patterns. The mechanisms by which breathing behaviors can influence arousal state is not fully understood. In this study, we investigated the role of astrocytes in the preBötzinger complex (preBötC) in modulating arousal states via breathing in adult conscious rats. Using viral vector tools, we selectively interfered with astrocytic signaling in the preBötC. Rats with inhibited astrocytic signaling exhibited slower breathing rates and behaviors indicative of a calmer state, whereas enhanced purinergic signaling in preBötC astrocytes led to faster breathing and heightened arousal. Our findings reveal a key role for an astrocyte-mediated mechanism in the preBötC that influences both respiratory behaviors and higher-order brain functions like arousal, suggesting a bidirectional link between breathing behaviors and mental states.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mitchell Bishop
- Neuron-Glia Signaling and Circuits Unit, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, 20892 MD, USA
| | - Shahriar SheikhBahei
- Neuron-Glia Signaling and Circuits Unit, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, 20892 MD, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Ali DN, Ali HM, Lopez MR, Kang S, Choi DS. Astrocytic GABAergic Regulation in Alcohol Use and Major Depressive Disorders. Cells 2024; 13:318. [PMID: 38391931 PMCID: PMC10887002 DOI: 10.3390/cells13040318] [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: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is the major inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system (CNS). Most GABAergic neurons synthesize GABA from glutamate and release it in the synaptic cleft in the CNS. However, astrocytes can also synthesize and release GABA, activating GABA receptors in the neighboring neurons in physiological and pathological conditions. As the primary homeostatic glial cells in the brain, astrocytes play a crucial role in regulating GABA homeostasis and synaptic neurotransmission. Accumulating evidence demonstrates that astrocytic GABA dysregulation is implicated in psychiatric disorders, including alcohol use disorder (AUD) and major depressive disorder (MDD), the most prevalent co-occurring psychiatric disorders. Several current medications and emerging pharmacological agents targeting GABA levels are in clinical trials for treating AUD and MDD. This review offers a concise summary of the role of astrocytic GABA regulation in AUD and MDD. We also provide an overview of the current understanding and areas of debate regarding the mechanisms by which astrocytes regulate GABA in the CNS and their potential significance in the molecular basis of AUD and MDD, paving the way toward future research directions and potential therapeutic target areas within this field.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dina N. Ali
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Rochester, MN 55905, USA; (D.N.A.); (H.M.A.); (M.R.L.); (S.K.)
| | - Hossam M. Ali
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Rochester, MN 55905, USA; (D.N.A.); (H.M.A.); (M.R.L.); (S.K.)
| | - Matthew R. Lopez
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Rochester, MN 55905, USA; (D.N.A.); (H.M.A.); (M.R.L.); (S.K.)
| | - Shinwoo Kang
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Rochester, MN 55905, USA; (D.N.A.); (H.M.A.); (M.R.L.); (S.K.)
| | - Doo-Sup Choi
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Rochester, MN 55905, USA; (D.N.A.); (H.M.A.); (M.R.L.); (S.K.)
- Neuroscience Program, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Zhao C, Shi R, Lu X, Yang R, Chen Z, Chen B, Hu W, Ren J, Peng J, Zhu T, Zhu H, Huang C. Obligatory role of microglia-mobilized hippocampal CREB-BDNF signaling in the prophylactic effect of β-glucan on chronic stress-induced depression-like behaviors in mice. Eur J Pharmacol 2024; 964:176288. [PMID: 38142848 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2023.176288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2023] [Revised: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/26/2023]
Abstract
Our previous studies have reported that pre-stimulation of microglia before stress stimulation is a possible strategy to prevent depression-like phenotypes; however, the molecular mechanisms underlying this effect are still unclear. Here, we used β-glucan, a polysaccharide from Saccharomyces cerevisiae with immunomodulatory activities that cannot elicit pro-inflammatory responses in microglia, to address this issue. Our results showed that a single injection of β-glucan one day before stress exposure dose-dependently prevented the depression-like behaviors triggered by chronic unpredictable stress (CUS), which peaked at 20 mg/kg and prevented the impairment of hippocampal brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) signaling, a pathological process critical for the progression of depression-like phenotypes. Inhibition of BDNF signaling by infusion of an anti-BDNF antibody into the hippocampus, knock-in of the mutant BDNF Val68Met allele, or blockade of the BDNF receptor in the hippocampus abolished the preventive effect of β-glucan on CUS-induced depression-like behaviors. Further analysis showed that cAMP-response element binding protein (CREB)-mediated increase of BDNF expression in the hippocampus was essential for the prevention of depression-like phenotypes by β-glucan. Pretreatment with minocycline or PLX3397 before β-glucan injection to suppress microglia abolished the preventive effect of β-glucan on impaired CREB-BDNF signaling in the hippocampus and depression-like behaviors in CUS mice. These results suggest that an increase in hippocampal BDNF following CREB activation triggered by β-glucan-induced microglia stimulation and subsequent TrkB signaling mediates the preventive effect of β-glucan on depression. β-Glucan may be a more suitable immunostimulant for the prevention of depression due to its inability to promote pro-inflammatory responses in microglia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cheng Zhao
- Department of Pharmacy, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, #20 Xisi Road, Nantong 226001, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Ruiting Shi
- Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, City University of Macau, Av. Parde Tomas Pereira, Macau, Taipa, 999078, China
| | - Xu Lu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Nantong University, #19 Qixiu Road, Nantong 226001, Jiangsu, China
| | - Rongrong Yang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, 226001, China
| | - Zhuo Chen
- Invasive Technology Department, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, First People's Hospital of Nantong City, #666 Shengli Road, Nantong 226006, China
| | - Bingran Chen
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Nantong University, #19 Qixiu Road, Nantong 226001, Jiangsu, China
| | - Wenfeng Hu
- Department of Pharmacy, Affiliated Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Nantong University, #399 Shijidadao, Nantong 226007, China
| | - Jie Ren
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Nantong University, #19 Qixiu Road, Nantong 226001, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jie Peng
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Nantong University, #19 Qixiu Road, Nantong 226001, Jiangsu, China
| | - Tao Zhu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Nantong University, #19 Qixiu Road, Nantong 226001, Jiangsu, China
| | - Haojie Zhu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Nantong University, #19 Qixiu Road, Nantong 226001, Jiangsu, China
| | - Chao Huang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Nantong University, #19 Qixiu Road, Nantong 226001, Jiangsu, China.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Chen AB, Duque M, Engert F. Seeing stars: Astroglia modulate visual circuits during behavioral-state transitions. Neuron 2023; 111:3903-3905. [PMID: 38128478 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2023.10.026] [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: 10/16/2023] [Revised: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
In this issue of Neuron, Uribe-Arias et al.1 show that, in larval zebrafish, astrocyte-like cells exhibit calcium responses to norepinephrine during behavioral-state transitions and alter neuronal response properties. Thus, astroglia can sculpt neuronal dynamics in behaviorally meaningful ways.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alex B Chen
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA; Graduate Program in Neuroscience, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Janelia Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Ashburn, VA 20147, USA.
| | - Marc Duque
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA; Graduate Program in Neuroscience, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Florian Engert
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
| |
Collapse
|