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Leong LM, Storace DA. Imaging different cell populations in the mouse olfactory bulb using the genetically encoded voltage indicator ArcLight. NEUROPHOTONICS 2024; 11:033402. [PMID: 38288247 PMCID: PMC10823906 DOI: 10.1117/1.nph.11.3.033402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Revised: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2024]
Abstract
Genetically encoded voltage indicators (GEVIs) are protein-based optical sensors that allow for measurements from genetically defined populations of neurons. Although in vivo imaging in the mammalian brain with early generation GEVIs was difficult due to poor membrane expression and low signal-to-noise ratio, newer and more sensitive GEVIs have begun to make them useful for answering fundamental questions in neuroscience. We discuss principles of imaging using GEVIs and genetically encoded calcium indicators, both useful tools for in vivo imaging of neuronal activity, and review some of the recent mechanistic advances that have led to GEVI improvements. We provide an overview of the mouse olfactory bulb (OB) and discuss recent studies using the GEVI ArcLight to study different cell types within the bulb using both widefield and two-photon microscopy. Specific emphasis is placed on using GEVIs to begin to study the principles of concentration coding in the OB, how to interpret the optical signals from population measurements in the in vivo brain, and future developments that will push the field forward.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lee Min Leong
- Florida State University, Department of Biological Science, Tallahassee, Florida, United States
| | - Douglas A. Storace
- Florida State University, Department of Biological Science, Tallahassee, Florida, United States
- Florida State University, Program in Neuroscience, Tallahassee, Florida, United States
- Florida State University, Institute of Molecular Biophysics, Tallahassee, Florida, United States
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2
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Silic MR, Zhang G. Bioelectricity in Developmental Patterning and Size Control: Evidence and Genetically Encoded Tools in the Zebrafish Model. Cells 2023; 12:cells12081148. [PMID: 37190057 DOI: 10.3390/cells12081148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2023] [Revised: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Developmental patterning is essential for regulating cellular events such as axial patterning, segmentation, tissue formation, and organ size determination during embryogenesis. Understanding the patterning mechanisms remains a central challenge and fundamental interest in developmental biology. Ion-channel-regulated bioelectric signals have emerged as a player of the patterning mechanism, which may interact with morphogens. Evidence from multiple model organisms reveals the roles of bioelectricity in embryonic development, regeneration, and cancers. The Zebrafish model is the second most used vertebrate model, next to the mouse model. The zebrafish model has great potential for elucidating the functions of bioelectricity due to many advantages such as external development, transparent early embryogenesis, and tractable genetics. Here, we review genetic evidence from zebrafish mutants with fin-size and pigment changes related to ion channels and bioelectricity. In addition, we review the cell membrane voltage reporting and chemogenetic tools that have already been used or have great potential to be implemented in zebrafish models. Finally, new perspectives and opportunities for bioelectricity research with zebrafish are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin R Silic
- Department of Comparative Pathobiology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
| | - GuangJun Zhang
- Department of Comparative Pathobiology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
- Center for Cancer Research, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
- Purdue Institute for Inflammation, Immunology and Infectious Diseases (PI4D), Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
- Purdue Institute for Integrative Neuroscience, Purdue University, 625 Harrison Street, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
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3
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Lamanna J, Ferro M, Spadini S, Malgaroli A. Exploiting the molecular diversity of the synapse to investigate neuronal communication: A guide through the current toolkit. Eur J Neurosci 2022; 56:6141-6161. [PMID: 36239030 PMCID: PMC10100385 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.15848] [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: 03/24/2022] [Revised: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Chemical synapses are tiny and overcrowded environments, deeply embedded inside brain tissue and enriched with thousands of protein species. Many efforts have been devoted to developing custom approaches for evaluating and modifying synaptic activity. Most of these methods are based on the engineering of one or more synaptic protein scaffolds used to target active moieties to the synaptic compartment or to manipulate synaptic functioning. In this review, we summarize the most recent methodological advances and provide a description of the involved proteins as well as the operation principle. Furthermore, we highlight their advantages and limitations in relation to studies of synaptic transmission in vitro and in vivo. Concerning the labelling methods, the most important challenge is how to extend the available approaches to the in vivo setting. On the other hand, for those methods that allow manipulation of synaptic function, this limit has been overcome using optogenetic approaches that can be more easily applied to the living brain. Finally, future applications of these methods to neuroscience, as well as new potential routes for development, are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacopo Lamanna
- Center for Behavioral Neuroscience and Communication (BNC), Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy.,Faculty of Psychology, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - Mattia Ferro
- Center for Behavioral Neuroscience and Communication (BNC), Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy.,Department of Psychology, Sigmund Freud University, Milan, Italy
| | - Sara Spadini
- Center for Behavioral Neuroscience and Communication (BNC), Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy.,Faculty of Psychology, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - Antonio Malgaroli
- Center for Behavioral Neuroscience and Communication (BNC), Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy.,Faculty of Psychology, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy.,San Raffaele Turro, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
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4
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Sepehri Rad M, Cohen LB, Baker BJ. Conserved Amino Acids Residing Outside the Voltage Field Can Shift the Voltage Sensitivity and Increase the Signal Speed and Size of Ciona Based GEVIs. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:868143. [PMID: 35784472 PMCID: PMC9243531 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.868143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2022] [Accepted: 05/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
To identify potential regions of the voltage-sensing domain that could shift the voltage sensitivity of Ciona intestinalis based Genetically Encoded Voltage Indicators (GEVIs), we aligned the amino acid sequences of voltage-gated sodium channels from different organisms. Conserved polar residues were identified at multiple transmembrane/loop junctions in the voltage sensing domain. Similar conservation of polar amino acids was found in the voltage-sensing domain of the voltage-sensing phosphatase gene family. These conserved residues were mutated to nonpolar or oppositely charged amino acids in a GEVI that utilizes the voltage sensing domain of the voltage sensing phosphatase from Ciona fused to the fluorescent protein, super ecliptic pHluorin (A227D). Different mutations shifted the voltage sensitivity to more positive or more negative membrane potentials. Double mutants were then created by selecting constructs that shifted the optical signal to a more physiologically relevant voltage range. Introduction of these mutations into previously developed GEVIs resulted in Plos6-v2 which improved the dynamic range to 40% ΔF/F/100 mV, a 25% increase over the parent, ArcLight. The onset time constant of Plos6-v2 is also 50% faster than ArcLight. Thus, Plos6-v2 appears to be the GEVI of choice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masoud Sepehri Rad
- Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul, South Korea
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, United States
| | - Lawrence B. Cohen
- Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul, South Korea
- Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
- *Correspondence: Lawrence B. Cohen, ; Bradley J. Baker,
| | - Bradley J. Baker
- Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul, South Korea
- Division of Bio-Medical Science and Technology, KIST School, Korea University of Science and Technology (UST), Seoul, South Korea
- *Correspondence: Lawrence B. Cohen, ; Bradley J. Baker,
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5
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Lee S, Kang BE, Song YK, Baker BJ. A trafficking motif alters GEVI activity implicating persistent protein interactions at the membrane. BIOPHYSICAL REPORTS 2022; 2:100047. [PMID: 36425771 PMCID: PMC9680705 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpr.2022.100047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2021] [Accepted: 02/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Efficient plasma-membrane expression is critical for genetically encoded voltage indicators (GEVIs). To improve the plasma-membrane expression, we introduced multiple combinations of plasma-membrane trafficking motifs at different positions to members of the Bongwoori family of GEVIs. An improvement from 20% to 27% in the ΔF/F/100 mV depolarization of the plasma membrane was observed when a Golgi transport motif was inserted near the N-terminus in conjunction with an endoplasmic reticulum release motif near the C-terminus of the protein. Unfortunately, this variant was also slower. The weighted tau on of the variant (25 ms) was more than double the original construct (11 ms). The weighted tau off was >20 ms compared with 10 ms for the original GEVI. The voltage range of the GEVI was also shifted to more negative potentials. Insertion of spacer amino acids between the fluorescent-protein domain and the endoplasmic reticulum release motif at the C-terminus rescued the speed of both the tau on and tau off while restoring the voltage range and maintaining the improved voltage-dependent optical signal. These results suggest that while trafficking motifs do improve plasma-membrane expression, they may also mediate persistent associations that affect the functioning of the protein.
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6
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Leong LM, Kang BE, Baker BJ. Improving the flexibility of genetically encoded voltage indicators via intermolecular FRET. Biophys J 2021; 120:1927-1941. [PMID: 33744262 PMCID: PMC8204331 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpj.2021.03.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2020] [Revised: 02/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
A new family of genetically encoded voltage indicators (GEVIs) has been developed based on intermolecular Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET). To test the hypothesis that the GEVI ArcLight functions via interactions between the fluorescent protein (FP) domains of neighboring probes, the FP of ArcLight was replaced with either a FRET donor or acceptor FP. We discovered relatively large FRET signals only when cells were cotransfected with both the FRET donor and acceptor GEVIs. Using a cyan fluorescent protein donor and an RFP acceptor, we were able to observe a voltage-dependent signal with an emission peak separated by over 200 nm from the excitation wavelength. The intermolecular FRET strategy also works for rhodopsin-based probes, potentially improving their flexibility as well. Separating the FRET pair into two distinct proteins has important advantages over intramolecular FRET constructs. The signals are larger because the voltage-induced conformational change moves two FPs independently. The expression of the FRET donor and acceptor can also be restricted independently, enabling greater cell type specificity as well as refined subcellular voltage reporting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lee Min Leong
- Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea; Division of Bio-Medical Science and Technology, KIST School, Korea University of Science and Technology (UST), Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Bok Eum Kang
- Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Bradley J Baker
- Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea; Division of Bio-Medical Science and Technology, KIST School, Korea University of Science and Technology (UST), Seoul, Republic of Korea.
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Mechanism of ArcLight derived GEVIs involves electrostatic interactions that can affect proton wires. Biophys J 2021; 120:1916-1926. [PMID: 33744263 PMCID: PMC8204334 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpj.2021.03.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2020] [Revised: 02/28/2021] [Accepted: 03/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The genetically encoded voltage indicators ArcLight and its derivatives mediate voltage-dependent optical signals by intermolecular, electrostatic interactions between neighboring fluorescent proteins (FPs). A random mutagenesis event placed a negative charge on the exterior of the FP, resulting in a greater than 10-fold improvement of the voltage-dependent optical signal. Repositioning this negative charge on the exterior of the FP reversed the polarity of voltage-dependent optical signals, suggesting the presence of “hot spots” capable of interacting with the negative charge on a neighboring FP, thereby changing the fluorescent output. To explore the potential effect on the chromophore state, voltage-clamp fluorometry was performed with alternating excitation at 390 nm followed by excitation at 470 nm, resulting in several mutants exhibiting voltage-dependent, ratiometric optical signals of opposing polarities. However, the kinetics, voltage ranges, and optimal FP fusion sites were different depending on the wavelength of excitation. These results suggest that the FP has external, electrostatic pathways capable of quenching fluorescence that are wavelength specific. One mutation to the FP (E222H) showed a voltage-dependent increase in fluorescence when excited at 390 nm, indicating the ability to affect the proton wire from the protonated chromophore to the H222 position. ArcLight-derived sensors may therefore offer a novel way to map how conditions external to the β-can structure can affect the fluorescence of the chromophore and transiently affect those pathways via conformational changes mediated by manipulating membrane potential.
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8
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Mollinedo-Gajate I, Song C, Knöpfel T. Genetically Encoded Voltage Indicators. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2021; 1293:209-224. [PMID: 33398815 DOI: 10.1007/978-981-15-8763-4_12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Optogenetic approaches combine the power to allocate optogenetic tools (proteins) to specific cell populations (defined genetically or functionally) and the use of light-based interfaces between biological wetware (cells and tissues) and hardware (controllers and recorders). The optogenetic toolbox contains two main compartments: tools to interfere with cellular processes and tools to monitor cellular events. Among the latter are genetically encoded voltage indicators (GEVIs). This chapter outlines the development, current state of the art and prospects of emerging optical GEVI imaging technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Chenchen Song
- Laboratory for Neuronal Circuit Dynamics, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Thomas Knöpfel
- Laboratory for Neuronal Circuit Dynamics, Imperial College London, London, UK.
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Geiller T, Vancura B, Terada S, Troullinou E, Chavlis S, Tsagkatakis G, Tsakalides P, Ócsai K, Poirazi P, Rózsa BJ, Losonczy A. Large-Scale 3D Two-Photon Imaging of Molecularly Identified CA1 Interneuron Dynamics in Behaving Mice. Neuron 2020; 108:968-983.e9. [PMID: 33022227 PMCID: PMC7736348 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2020.09.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2020] [Revised: 07/16/2020] [Accepted: 09/08/2020] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Cortical computations are critically reliant on their local circuit, GABAergic cells. In the hippocampus, a large body of work has identified an unprecedented diversity of GABAergic interneurons with pronounced anatomical, molecular, and physiological differences. Yet little is known about the functional properties and activity dynamics of the major hippocampal interneuron classes in behaving animals. Here we use fast, targeted, three-dimensional (3D) two-photon calcium imaging coupled with immunohistochemistry-based molecular identification to retrospectively map in vivo activity onto multiple classes of interneurons in the mouse hippocampal area CA1 during head-fixed exploration and goal-directed learning. We find examples of preferential subtype recruitment with quantitative differences in response properties and feature selectivity during key behavioral tasks and states. These results provide new insights into the collective organization of local inhibitory circuits supporting navigational and mnemonic functions of the hippocampus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tristan Geiller
- Department of Neuroscience, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
- Mortimer B. Zuckerman Mind Brain Behavior Institute, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Bert Vancura
- Department of Neuroscience, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
- Mortimer B. Zuckerman Mind Brain Behavior Institute, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Satoshi Terada
- Department of Neuroscience, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
- Mortimer B. Zuckerman Mind Brain Behavior Institute, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Eirini Troullinou
- Institute of Computer Science, Foundation for Research and Technology Hellas, Heraklion, 70013, Greece
- Department of Computer Science, University of Crete, Heraklion, 70013, Greece
| | - Spyridon Chavlis
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (IMBB), Foundation for Research and Technology-Hellas (FORTH), Heraklion, Crete, 700 13, Greece
| | | | - Panagiotis Tsakalides
- Institute of Computer Science, Foundation for Research and Technology Hellas, Heraklion, 70013, Greece
- Department of Computer Science, University of Crete, Heraklion, 70013, Greece
| | - Katalin Ócsai
- Faculty of Information Technology, Pázmány Péter University, Budapest
| | - Panayiota Poirazi
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (IMBB), Foundation for Research and Technology-Hellas (FORTH), Heraklion, Crete, 700 13, Greece
| | - Balázs J Rózsa
- Faculty of Information Technology, Pázmány Péter University, Budapest
- Laboratory of 3D Functional Network and Dendritic Imaging, Institute of Experimental Medicine, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Eötvös Loránd Research Network, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Attila Losonczy
- Department of Neuroscience, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
- Mortimer B. Zuckerman Mind Brain Behavior Institute, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
- The Kavli Institute for Brain Science, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
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10
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Tang Q, Tsytsarev V, Yan F, Wang C, Erzurumlu RS, Chen Y. In vivo voltage-sensitive dye imaging of mouse cortical activity with mesoscopic optical tomography. NEUROPHOTONICS 2020; 7:041402. [PMID: 33274250 PMCID: PMC7708784 DOI: 10.1117/1.nph.7.4.041402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2020] [Accepted: 11/11/2020] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
Significance: Cellular layering is a hallmark of the mammalian neocortex with layer and cell type-specific connections within the cortical mantle and subcortical connections. A key challenge in studying circuit function within the neocortex is to understand the spatial and temporal patterns of information flow between different columns and layers. Aim: We aimed to investigate the three-dimensional (3D) layer- and area-specific interactions in mouse cortex in vivo. Approach: We applied a new promising neuroimaging method-fluorescence laminar optical tomography in combination with voltage-sensitive dye imaging (VSDi). VSDi is a powerful technique for interrogating membrane potential dynamics in assemblies of cortical neurons, but it is traditionally used for two-dimensional (2D) imaging. Our mesoscopic technique allows visualization of neuronal activity in a 3D manner with high temporal resolution. Results: We first demonstrated the depth-resolved capability of 3D mesoscopic imaging technology in Thy1-ChR2-YFP transgenic mice. Next, we recorded the long-range functional projections between sensory cortex (S1) and motor cortex (M1) in mice, in vivo, following single whisker deflection. Conclusions: The results show that mesoscopic imaging technique has the potential to investigate the layer-specific neural connectivity in the mouse cortex in vivo. Combination of mesoscopic imaging technique with optogenetic control strategy is a promising platform for determining depth-resolved interactions between cortical circuit elements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qinggong Tang
- University of Oklahoma, Stephenson School of Biomedical Engineering, Norman, Oklahoma, United States
- University of Maryland, Fischell Department of Bioengineering, College Park, Maryland, United States
- Address all correspondence to Qinggong Tang, ; Reha S. Erzurumlu, ; Yu Chen,
| | - Vassiliy Tsytsarev
- University of Maryland School of Medicine, Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Baltimore, Maryland, United States
| | - Feng Yan
- University of Oklahoma, Stephenson School of Biomedical Engineering, Norman, Oklahoma, United States
| | - Chen Wang
- University of Oklahoma, Stephenson School of Biomedical Engineering, Norman, Oklahoma, United States
| | - Reha S. Erzurumlu
- University of Maryland School of Medicine, Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Baltimore, Maryland, United States
- Address all correspondence to Qinggong Tang, ; Reha S. Erzurumlu, ; Yu Chen,
| | - Yu Chen
- University of Maryland, Fischell Department of Bioengineering, College Park, Maryland, United States
- University of Massachusetts, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Amherst, Massachusetts, United States
- Address all correspondence to Qinggong Tang, ; Reha S. Erzurumlu, ; Yu Chen,
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11
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Milosevic MM, Jang J, McKimm EJ, Zhu MH, Antic SD. In Vitro Testing of Voltage Indicators: Archon1, ArcLightD, ASAP1, ASAP2s, ASAP3b, Bongwoori-Pos6, BeRST1, FlicR1, and Chi-VSFP-Butterfly. eNeuro 2020; 7:ENEURO.0060-20.2020. [PMID: 32817120 PMCID: PMC7540930 DOI: 10.1523/eneuro.0060-20.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2020] [Revised: 08/03/2020] [Accepted: 08/09/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Genetically encoded voltage indicators (GEVIs) could potentially be used for mapping neural circuits at the plane of synaptic potentials and plateau potentials-two blind spots of GCaMP-based imaging. In the last year alone, several laboratories reported significant breakthroughs in the quality of GEVIs and the efficacy of the voltage imaging equipment. One major obstacle of using well performing GEVIs in the pursuit of interesting biological data is the process of transferring GEVIs between laboratories, as their reported qualities (e.g., membrane targeting, brightness, sensitivity, optical signal quality) are often difficult to reproduce outside of the laboratory of the GEVI origin. We have tested eight available GEVIs (Archon1, ArcLightD, ASAP1, ASAP2s, ASAP3b, Bongwoori-Pos6, FlicR1, and chi-VSFP-Butterfly) and two voltage-sensitive dyes (BeRST1 and di-4-ANEPPS). We used the same microscope, lens, and optical detector, while the light sources were interchanged. GEVI voltage imaging was attempted in the following three preparations: (1) cultured neurons, (2) HEK293 cells, and (3) mouse brain slices. Systematic measurements were successful only in HEK293 cells and brain slices. Despite the significant differences in brightness and dynamic response (ON rate), all tested indicators produced reasonable optical signals in brain slices and solid in vitro quality properties, in the range initially reported by the creator laboratories. Side-by-side comparisons between GEVIs and organic dyes obtained in HEK293 cells and brain slices by a "third party" (current data) will be useful for determining the right voltage indicator for a given research application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milena M Milosevic
- Institute for Systems Genomics, Department of Neuroscience, UConn School of Medicine, Farmington, Connecticut 06030
- Center for Laser Microscopy, Faculty of Biology, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Jinyoung Jang
- Institute for Systems Genomics, Department of Neuroscience, UConn School of Medicine, Farmington, Connecticut 06030
| | - Eric J McKimm
- Institute for Systems Genomics, Department of Neuroscience, UConn School of Medicine, Farmington, Connecticut 06030
| | - Mei Hong Zhu
- Institute for Systems Genomics, Department of Neuroscience, UConn School of Medicine, Farmington, Connecticut 06030
| | - Srdjan D Antic
- Institute for Systems Genomics, Department of Neuroscience, UConn School of Medicine, Farmington, Connecticut 06030
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12
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Shroff SN, Das SL, Tseng HA, Noueihed J, Fernandez F, White JA, Chen CS, Han X. Voltage Imaging of Cardiac Cells and Tissue Using the Genetically Encoded Voltage Sensor Archon1. iScience 2020; 23:100974. [PMID: 32299055 PMCID: PMC7160579 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2020.100974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2019] [Revised: 02/21/2020] [Accepted: 03/05/2020] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Precise measurement of action potentials (APs) is needed to observe electrical activity and cellular communication within cardiac tissue. Voltage-sensitive dyes (VSDs) are traditionally used to measure cardiac APs; however, they require acute chemical addition that prevents chronic imaging. Genetically encoded voltage indicators (GEVIs) enable long-term studies of APs without the need of chemical additions, but current GEVIs used in cardiac tissue exhibit poor kinetics and/or low signal to noise (SNR). Here, we demonstrate the use of Archon1, a recently developed GEVI, in hiPSC-derived cardiomyocytes (CMs). When expressed in CMs, Archon1 demonstrated fast kinetics comparable with patch-clamp electrophysiology and high SNR significantly greater than the VSD Di-8-ANEPPS. Additionally, Archon1 enabled monitoring of APs across multiple cells simultaneously in 3D cardiac tissues. These results highlight Archon1's capability to investigate the electrical activity of CMs in a variety of applications and its potential to probe functionally complex in vitro models, as well as in vivo systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanaya N Shroff
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Shoshana L Das
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, Boston, MA 02215, USA; Harvard-MIT Program in Health Sciences and Technology, Institute for Medical Engineering and Science, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Hua-An Tseng
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Jad Noueihed
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Fernando Fernandez
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - John A White
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Christopher S Chen
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, Boston, MA 02215, USA; Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
| | - Xue Han
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Boston University, Boston, MA 02215, USA.
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13
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Lee S, Song YK, Baker BJ. Engineering Photoactivatability in Genetically Encoded Voltage and pH Indicators. Front Cell Neurosci 2019; 13:482. [PMID: 31736711 PMCID: PMC6828978 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2019.00482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2019] [Accepted: 10/10/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Genetically-encoded indicators of neuronal activity enable the labeling of a genetically defined population of neurons to optically monitor their activities. However, researchers often find difficulties in identifying relevant signals from excessive background fluorescence. A photoactivatable version of a genetically encoded calcium indicator, sPA-GCaMP6f is a good example of circumventing such an obstacle by limiting the fluorescence to a region of interest defined by the user. Here, we apply this strategy to genetically encoded voltage (GEVI) and pH (GEPI) indicators. Three photoactivatable GEVI candidates were considered. The first one used a circularly-permuted fluorescent protein, the second design involved a Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) pair, and the third approach employed a pH-sensitive variant of GFP, ecliptic pHluorin. The candidate with a variant of ecliptic pHluorin exhibited photoactivation and a voltage-dependent fluorescence change. This effort also yielded a pH-sensitive photoactivatable GFP that varies its brightness in response to intracellular pH changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sungmoo Lee
- Center for Functional Connectomics, Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Yoon-Kyu Song
- Program in Nano Science and Technology, Graduate School of Convergence Science and Technology, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea.,Advanced Institutes of Convergence Technology, Suwon, South Korea
| | - Bradley J Baker
- Center for Functional Connectomics, Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul, South Korea.,Division of Bio-Medical Science and Technology, KIST School, University of Science and Technology (UST), Seoul, South Korea
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14
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Abstract
As a "holy grail" of neuroscience, optical imaging of membrane potential could enable high resolution measurements of spiking and synaptic activity in neuronal populations. This has been partly achieved using organic voltage-sensitive dyes in vitro, or in invertebrate preparations yet unspecific staining has prevented single-cell resolution measurements from mammalian preparations in vivo. The development of genetically encoded voltage indicators (GEVIs) and chemogenetic sensors has enabled targeting voltage indicators to plasma membranes and selective neuronal populations. Here, we review recent advances in the design and use of genetic voltage indicators and discuss advantages and disadvantages of three classes of them. Although genetic voltage indicators could revolutionize neuroscience, there are still significant challenges, particularly two-photon performance. To overcome them may require cross-disciplinary collaborations, team effort, and sustained support by large-scale research initiatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuki Bando
- Neurotechnology Center, Department Biological Sciences, Columbia University, 550 W 120th Street, New York, NY, 10027, USA
- Present address: Department Organ and Tissue Anatomy, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, Shizuoka, 431-3192, Japan
| | - Christiane Grimm
- Neurotechnology Center, Department Biological Sciences, Columbia University, 550 W 120th Street, New York, NY, 10027, USA
| | - Victor H Cornejo
- Neurotechnology Center, Department Biological Sciences, Columbia University, 550 W 120th Street, New York, NY, 10027, USA
| | - Rafael Yuste
- Neurotechnology Center, Department Biological Sciences, Columbia University, 550 W 120th Street, New York, NY, 10027, USA.
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15
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Kost LA, Ivanova VO, Balaban PM, Lukyanov KA, Nikitin ES, Bogdanov AM. Red Fluorescent Genetically Encoded Voltage Indicators with Millisecond Responsiveness. SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2019; 19:E2982. [PMID: 31284557 PMCID: PMC6651345 DOI: 10.3390/s19132982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2019] [Revised: 07/02/2019] [Accepted: 07/04/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Genetically encoded fluorescent indicators typically consist of the sensitive and reporter protein domains connected with the amino acid linkers. The final performance of a particular indicator may depend on the linker length and composition as strong as it depends on the both domains nature. Here we aimed to optimize interdomain linkers in VSD-FR189-188-a recently described red fluorescent protein-based voltage indicator. We have tested 13 shortened linker versions and monitored the dynamic range, response speed and polarity of the corresponding voltage indicator variants. While the new indicators didn't show a contrast enhancement, some of them carrying very short interdomain linkers responded 25-fold faster than the parental VSD-FR189-188. Also we found the critical linker length at which fluorescence response to voltage shift changes its polarity from negative to positive slope. Our observations thus make an important contribution to the designing principles of the fluorescent protein-derived voltage indicators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liubov A Kost
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Moscow 117997, Russia
| | - Violetta O Ivanova
- Institute of Higher Nervous Activity and Neurophysiology, Moscow 117485, Russia
| | - Pavel M Balaban
- Institute of Higher Nervous Activity and Neurophysiology, Moscow 117485, Russia
| | - Konstantin A Lukyanov
- Center of Life Sciences, Skolkovo Institute of Science and Technology, Moscow 121205, Russia
| | - Evgeny S Nikitin
- Institute of Higher Nervous Activity and Neurophysiology, Moscow 117485, Russia
| | - Alexey M Bogdanov
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Moscow 117997, Russia.
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16
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Pedraza-González L, De Vico L, del Carmen Marín M, Fanelli F, Olivucci M. a-ARM: Automatic Rhodopsin Modeling with Chromophore Cavity Generation, Ionization State Selection, and External Counterion Placement. J Chem Theory Comput 2019; 15:3134-3152. [PMID: 30916955 PMCID: PMC7141608 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jctc.9b00061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The Automatic Rhodopsin Modeling (ARM) protocol has recently been proposed as a tool for the fast and parallel generation of basic hybrid quantum mechanics/molecular mechanics (QM/MM) models of wild type and mutant rhodopsins. However, in its present version, input preparation requires a few hours long user's manipulation of the template protein structure, which also impairs the reproducibility of the generated models. This limitation, which makes model building semiautomatic rather than fully automatic, comprises four tasks: definition of the retinal chromophore cavity, assignment of protonation states of the ionizable residues, neutralization of the protein with external counterions, and finally congruous generation of single or multiple mutations. In this work, we show that the automation of the original ARM protocol can be extended to a level suitable for performing the above tasks without user's manipulation and with an input preparation time of minutes. The new protocol, called a-ARM, delivers fully reproducible (i.e., user independent) rhodopsin QM/MM models as well as an improved model quality. More specifically, we show that the trend in vertical excitation energies observed for a set of 25 wild type and 14 mutant rhodopsins is predicted by the new protocol better than when using the original. Such an agreement is reflected by an estimated (relative to the probed set) trend deviation of 0.7 ± 0.5 kcal mol-1 (0.03 ± 0.02 eV) and mean absolute error of 1.0 kcal mol-1 (0.04 eV).
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Pedraza-González
- Department of Biotechnologies, Chemistry and Pharmacy, Università degli Studi di Siena, via A. Moro 2, I-53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Luca De Vico
- Department of Biotechnologies, Chemistry and Pharmacy, Università degli Studi di Siena, via A. Moro 2, I-53100 Siena, Italy
| | - María del Carmen Marín
- Department of Biotechnologies, Chemistry and Pharmacy, Università degli Studi di Siena, via A. Moro 2, I-53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Francesca Fanelli
- Department of Life Sciences, Center for Neuroscience and Neurotechnology, Università degli Studi di Modena e Reggio Emilia, I-41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Massimo Olivucci
- Department of Biotechnologies, Chemistry and Pharmacy, Università degli Studi di Siena, via A. Moro 2, I-53100 Siena, Italy
- Department of Chemistry, Bowling Green State University, Bowling Green, Ohio 43403, United States
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17
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Emmenegger V, Obien MEJ, Franke F, Hierlemann A. Technologies to Study Action Potential Propagation With a Focus on HD-MEAs. Front Cell Neurosci 2019; 13:159. [PMID: 31118887 PMCID: PMC6504789 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2019.00159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2019] [Accepted: 04/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Axons convey information in neuronal circuits via reliable conduction of action potentials (APs) from the axon initial segment (AIS) to the presynaptic terminals. Recent experimental findings increasingly evidence that the axonal function is not limited to the simple transmission of APs. Advances in subcellular-resolution recording techniques have shown that axons display activity-dependent modulation in spike shape and conduction velocity, which influence synaptic strength and latency. We briefly review here, how recent methodological developments facilitate the understanding of the axon physiology. We included the three most common methods, i.e., genetically encoded voltage imaging (GEVI), subcellular patch-clamp and high-density microelectrode arrays (HD-MEAs). We then describe the potential of using HD-MEAs in studying axonal physiology in more detail. Due to their robustness, amenability to high-throughput and high spatiotemporal resolution, HD-MEAs can provide a direct functional electrical readout of single cells and cellular ensembles at subcellular resolution. HD-MEAs can, therefore, be employed in investigating axonal pathologies, the effects of large-scale genomic interventions (e.g., with RNAi or CRISPR) or in compound screenings. A combination of extracellular microelectrode arrays (MEAs), intracellular microelectrodes and optical imaging may potentially reveal yet unexplored repertoires of axonal functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vishalini Emmenegger
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zürich, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Marie Engelene J. Obien
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zürich, Basel, Switzerland
- MaxWell Biosystems AG, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Felix Franke
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zürich, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Andreas Hierlemann
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zürich, Basel, Switzerland
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18
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Anderson HE, Weir RFF. On the development of optical peripheral nerve interfaces. Neural Regen Res 2019; 14:425-436. [PMID: 30539808 PMCID: PMC6334609 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.245461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2018] [Accepted: 09/19/2018] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Limb loss and spinal cord injury are two debilitating conditions that continue to grow in prevalence. Prosthetic limbs and limb reanimation present two ways of providing affected individuals with means to interact in the world. These techniques are both dependent on a robust interface with the peripheral nerve. Current methods for interfacing with the peripheral nerve tend to suffer from low specificity, high latency and insufficient robustness for a chronic implant. An optical peripheral nerve interface may solve some of these problems by decreasing invasiveness and providing single axon specificity. In order to implement such an interface three elements are required: (1) a transducer capable of translating light into a neural stimulus or translating neural activity into changes in fluorescence, (2) a means for delivering said transducer and (3) a microscope for providing the stimulus light and detecting the fluorescence change. There are continued improvements in both genetically encoded calcium and voltage indicators as well as new optogenetic actuators for stimulation. Similarly, improvements in specificity of viral vectors continue to improve expression in the axons of the peripheral nerve. Our work has recently shown that it is possible to virally transduce axons of the peripheral nerve for recording from small fibers. The improvements of these components make an optical peripheral nerve interface a rapidly approaching alternative to current methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hans E. Anderson
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Colorado Denver | Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Richard F. ff. Weir
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Colorado Denver | Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
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19
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Panzera LC, Hoppa MB. Genetically Encoded Voltage Indicators Are Illuminating Subcellular Physiology of the Axon. Front Cell Neurosci 2019; 13:52. [PMID: 30881287 PMCID: PMC6406964 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2019.00052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2018] [Accepted: 02/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Everything we see and do is regulated by electrical signals in our nerves and muscle. Ion channels are crucial for sensing and generating electrical signals. Two voltage-dependent conductances, Na+ and K+, form the bedrock of the electrical impulse in the brain known as the action potential. Several classes of mammalian neurons express combinations of nearly 100 different varieties of these two voltage-dependent channels and their subunits. Not surprisingly, this variability orchestrates a diversity of action potential shapes and firing patterns that have been studied in detail at neural somata. A remarkably understudied phenomena exists in subcellular compartments of the axon, where action potentials initiate synaptic transmission. Ion channel research was catalyzed by the invention of glass electrodes to measure electrical signals in cell membranes, however, progress in the field of neurobiology has been stymied by the fact that most axons in the mammalian CNS are far too small and delicate for measuring ion channel function with electrodes. These quantitative measurements of membrane voltage can be achieved within the axon using light. A revolution of optical voltage sensors has enabled exploring important questions of how ion channels regulate axon physiology and synaptic transmission. In this review we will consider advantages and disadvantages of different fluorescent voltage indicators and discuss particularly relevant questions that these indicators can elucidate for understanding the crucial relationship between action potentials and synaptic transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Michael B. Hoppa
- Department of Biological Sciences, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH, United States
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20
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Abstract
Fluorescent probes that indicate biologically important quantities are widely used for many different types of biological experiments across life sciences. During recent years, limitations of small molecule-based indicators have been overcome by the development of genetically encoded indicators. Here we focus on fluorescent calcium and voltage indicators and point to their applications mainly in neurosciences.
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21
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Nakajima R, Baker BJ. Mapping of excitatory and inhibitory postsynaptic potentials of neuronal populations in hippocampal slices using the GEVI, ArcLight. JOURNAL OF PHYSICS D: APPLIED PHYSICS 2018; 51:504003. [PMID: 30739956 PMCID: PMC6366634 DOI: 10.1088/1361-6463/aae2e3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
To understand the circuitry of the brain, it is essential to clarify the functional connectivity among distinct neuronal populations. For this purpose, neuronal activity imaging using genetically-encoded calcium sensors such as GCaMP has been a powerful approach due to its cell-type specificity. However, calcium (Ca2+) is an indirect measure of neuronal activity. A more direct approach would be to use genetically encoded voltage indicators (GEVIs) to observe subthreshold, synaptic activities. The GEVI, ArcLight, which exhibits large fluorescence transients in response to voltage, was expressed in excitatory neurons of the mouse CA1 hippocampus. Fluorescent signals in response to the electrical stimulation of the Schaffer collateral axons were observed in brain slice preparations. ArcLight was able to map both excitatory and inhibitory inputs projected to excitatory neurons. In contrast, the Ca2+ signal detected by GCaMP6f, was only associated with excitatory inputs. ArcLight and similar voltage sensing probes are also becoming powerful paradigms for functional connectivity mapping of brain circuitry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryuichi Nakajima
- Center for Functional Connectomics, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul, 136-791, Republic of Korea
| | - Bradley J. Baker
- Center for Functional Connectomics, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul, 136-791, Republic of Korea
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Science and Technology, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
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22
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Kang BE, Lee S, Baker BJ. Optical consequences of a genetically-encoded voltage indicator with a pH sensitive fluorescent protein. Neurosci Res 2018; 146:13-21. [PMID: 30342069 DOI: 10.1016/j.neures.2018.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2018] [Revised: 09/20/2018] [Accepted: 10/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Genetically-Encoded Voltage Indicators (GEVIs) are capable of converting changes in membrane potential into an optical signal. Here, we focus on recent insights into the mechanism of ArcLight-type probes and the consequences of utilizing a pH-dependent Fluorescent Protein (FP). A negative charge on the exterior of the β-can of the FP combined with a pH-sensitive FP enables voltage-dependent conformational changes to affect the fluorescence of the probe. This hypothesis implies that interaction/dimerization of the FP creates a microenvironment for the probe that is altered via conformational changes. This mechanism explains why a pH sensitive FP with a negative charge on the outside of the β-can is needed, but also suggests that pH could affect the optical signal as well. To better understand the effects of pH on the voltage-dependent signal of ArcLight, the intracellular pH (pHi) was tested at pH 6.8, 7.2, or 7.8. The resting fluorescence of ArcLight gets brighter as the pHi increases, yet only pH 7.8 significantly affected the ΔF/F. ArcLight could also simultaneously report voltage and pH changes during the acidification of a neuron firing multiple action potentials revealing different buffering capacities of the soma versus the processes of the cell.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bok Eum Kang
- Center for Functional Connectomics, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul, Republic of Korea; Division of Bio-Medical Science & Technology, KIST School, Korea University of Science and Technology, Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Sungmoo Lee
- Center for Functional Connectomics, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul, Republic of Korea; Program in Nanoscience and Technology, Department of Transdisciplinary Studies, Graduate School of Convergence Science and Technology, Seoul National University. Suwon, Republic of Korea
| | - Bradley J Baker
- Center for Functional Connectomics, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul, Republic of Korea; Division of Bio-Medical Science & Technology, KIST School, Korea University of Science and Technology, Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea.
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23
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Yi B, Kang BE, Lee S, Braubach S, Baker BJ. A dimeric fluorescent protein yields a bright, red-shifted GEVI capable of population signals in brain slice. Sci Rep 2018; 8:15199. [PMID: 30315245 PMCID: PMC6185910 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-33297-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2018] [Accepted: 09/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
A bright, red-shifted Genetically Encoded Voltage Indicator (GEVI) was developed using a modified version of the fluorescent protein, tdTomato. Dimerization of the fluorescent domain for ArcLight-type GEVIs has been shown to affect the signal size of the voltage-dependent optical signal. For red-shifted GEVI development, tdTomato was split fusing a single dTomato chromophore to the voltage sensing domain. Optimization of the amino acid length and charge composition of the linker region between the voltage sensing domain and the fluorescent protein resulted in a probe that is an order of magnitude brighter than FlicR1 at a resting potential of -70 mV and exhibits a ten-fold larger change in fluorescence (ΔF) upon 100 mV depolarization of the plasma membrane in HEK 293 cells. Unlike ArcLight, the introduction of charged residues to the exterior of dTomato did not substantially improve the dynamic range of the optical signal. As a result, this new GEVI, Ilmol, yields a 3-fold improvement in the signal-to-noise ratio compared to FlicR1 despite a smaller fractional change in fluorescence of 4% per 100 mV depolarization of the plasma membrane. Ilmol expresses well in neurons resolving action potentials in neuronal cultures and reporting population signals in mouse hippocampal acute brain slice recordings. Ilmol is the brightest red-shifted GEVI to date enabling imaging with 160-fold less light than Archon1 for primary neuron recordings (50 mW/cm2 versus 8 W/cm2) and 600-fold less light than QuasAr2 for mouse brain slice recordings (500 mW/cm2 versus 300 W/cm2). This new GEVI uses a distinct mechanism from other approaches, opening an alternate engineering path to improve sensitivity and speed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bumjun Yi
- The Center for Functional Connectomics, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul, Republic of Korea.,Division of Bio-Medical Science and Technology, KIST School, Korea University of Science and Technology (UST), Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Bok Eum Kang
- The Center for Functional Connectomics, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul, Republic of Korea.,Division of Bio-Medical Science and Technology, KIST School, Korea University of Science and Technology (UST), Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Sungmoo Lee
- The Center for Functional Connectomics, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul, Republic of Korea.,Department of Transdisciplinary Studies, Graduate school of Convergence Science and Technology, Seoul National University, Suwon, Republic of Korea
| | - Sophie Braubach
- The Center for Functional Connectomics, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Bradley J Baker
- The Center for Functional Connectomics, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul, Republic of Korea. .,Division of Bio-Medical Science and Technology, KIST School, Korea University of Science and Technology (UST), Seoul, Republic of Korea.
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24
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Platisa J, Pieribone VA. Genetically encoded fluorescent voltage indicators: are we there yet? Curr Opin Neurobiol 2018; 50:146-153. [PMID: 29501950 PMCID: PMC5984684 DOI: 10.1016/j.conb.2018.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2017] [Revised: 01/04/2018] [Accepted: 02/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
In order to understand how brain activity produces adaptive behavior we need large-scale, high-resolution recordings of neuronal activity. Fluorescent genetically encoded voltage indicators (GEVIs) offer the potential for these recordings to be performed chronically from targeted cells in a minimally invasive manner. As the number of GEVIs successfully tested for in vivo use grows, so has the number of open questions regarding the improvements that would facilitate broad adoption of this technology that surpasses mere 'proof of principle' studies. Our aim in this review is not to provide a status check of the current state of the field, as excellent publications covering this topic already exist. Here, we discuss specific questions regarding GEVI development and application that we think are crucial in achieving this goal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jelena Platisa
- The John B. Pierce Laboratory, Inc., New Haven, CT 06519, United States; Department of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, United States.
| | - Vincent A Pieribone
- The John B. Pierce Laboratory, Inc., New Haven, CT 06519, United States; Department of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, United States; Department of Neuroscience, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, United States
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25
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Broyles CN, Robinson P, Daniels MJ. Fluorescent, Bioluminescent, and Optogenetic Approaches to Study Excitable Physiology in the Single Cardiomyocyte. Cells 2018; 7:cells7060051. [PMID: 29857560 PMCID: PMC6028913 DOI: 10.3390/cells7060051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2018] [Revised: 05/22/2018] [Accepted: 05/30/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
This review briefly summarizes the single cell application of classical chemical dyes used to visualize cardiomyocyte physiology and their undesirable toxicities which have the potential to confound experimental observations. We will discuss, in detail, the more recent iterative development of fluorescent and bioluminescent protein-based indicators and their emerging application to cardiomyocytes. We will discuss the integration of optical control strategies (optogenetics) to augment the standard imaging approach. This will be done in the context of potential applications, and barriers, of these technologies to disease modelling, drug toxicity, and drug discovery efforts at the single-cell scale.
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Affiliation(s)
- Connor N Broyles
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK.
- BHF Centre of Research Excellence, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK.
| | - Paul Robinson
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK.
- BHF Centre of Research Excellence, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK.
| | - Matthew J Daniels
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK.
- BHF Centre of Research Excellence, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK.
- Department of Cardiology, Oxford University NHS Hospitals Trust, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK.
- BHF Centre of Regenerative Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK.
- Department of Biotechnology, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, Mihogaoka 8-1, Ibaraki, 567-0047 Osaka, Japan.
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26
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Rayaprolu V, Royal P, Stengel K, Sandoz G, Kohout SC. Dimerization of the voltage-sensing phosphatase controls its voltage-sensing and catalytic activity. J Gen Physiol 2018; 150:683-696. [PMID: 29695412 PMCID: PMC5940254 DOI: 10.1085/jgp.201812064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2018] [Accepted: 03/28/2018] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The Ciona intestinalis voltage-sensing phosphatase (Ci-VSP) was not thought to multimerize. Rayaprolu et al. show that Ci-VSP exists as a dimer and that this interaction lowers the voltage dependence of activation and alters substrate specificity. Multimerization is a key characteristic of most voltage-sensing proteins. The main exception was thought to be the Ciona intestinalis voltage-sensing phosphatase (Ci-VSP). In this study, we show that multimerization is also critical for Ci-VSP function. Using coimmunoprecipitation and single-molecule pull-down, we find that Ci-VSP stoichiometry is flexible. It exists as both monomers and dimers, with dimers favored at higher concentrations. We show strong dimerization via the voltage-sensing domain (VSD) and weak dimerization via the phosphatase domain. Using voltage-clamp fluorometry, we also find that VSDs cooperate to lower the voltage dependence of activation, thus favoring the activation of Ci-VSP. Finally, using activity assays, we find that dimerization alters Ci-VSP substrate specificity such that only dimeric Ci-VSP is able to dephosphorylate the 3-phosphate from PI(3,4,5)P3 or PI(3,4)P2. Our results indicate that dimerization plays a significant role in Ci-VSP function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vamseedhar Rayaprolu
- Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT
| | - Perrine Royal
- Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Medicale, iBV, Université Côte d'Azur, Valbonne, France.,Laboratory of Excellence, Ion Channel Science and Therapeutics, Nice, France
| | - Karen Stengel
- Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT
| | - Guillaume Sandoz
- Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Medicale, iBV, Université Côte d'Azur, Valbonne, France.,Laboratory of Excellence, Ion Channel Science and Therapeutics, Nice, France
| | - Susy C Kohout
- Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT
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27
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Voltage and Calcium Imaging of Brain Activity. Biophys J 2017; 113:2160-2167. [PMID: 29102396 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpj.2017.09.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2017] [Revised: 09/14/2017] [Accepted: 09/21/2017] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Sensors for imaging brain activity have been under development for almost 50 years. The development of some of these tools is relatively mature, whereas qualitative improvements of others are needed and are actively pursued. In particular, genetically encoded voltage indicators are just now starting to be used to answer neurobiological questions and, at the same time, more than 10 laboratories are working to improve them. In this Biophysical Perspective, we attempt to discuss the present state of the art and indicate areas of active development.
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28
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Jung A, Rajakumar D, Yoon BJ, Baker BJ. Modulating the Voltage-sensitivity of a Genetically Encoded Voltage Indicator. Exp Neurobiol 2017; 26:241-251. [PMID: 29093633 PMCID: PMC5661057 DOI: 10.5607/en.2017.26.5.241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2017] [Revised: 08/19/2017] [Accepted: 09/24/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Saturation mutagenesis was performed on a single position in the voltage-sensing domain (VSD) of a genetically encoded voltage indicator (GEVI). The VSD consists of four transmembrane helixes designated S1-S4. The V220 position located near the plasma membrane/extracellular interface had previously been shown to affect the voltage range of the optical signal. Introduction of polar amino acids at this position reduced the voltage-dependent optical signal of the GEVI. Negatively charged amino acids slightly reduced the optical signal by 33 percent while positively charge amino acids at this position reduced the optical signal by 80%. Surprisingly, the range of V220D was similar to that of V220K with shifted optical responses towards negative potentials. In contrast, the V220E mutant mirrored the responses of the V220R mutation suggesting that the length of the side chain plays in role in determining the voltage range of the GEVI. Charged mutations at the 219 position all behaved similarly slightly shifting the optical response to more negative potentials. Charged mutations to the 221 position behaved erratically suggesting interactions with the plasma membrane and/or other amino acids in the VSD. Introduction of bulky amino acids at the V220 position increased the range of the optical response to include hyperpolarizing signals. Combining The V220W mutant with the R217Q mutation resulted in a probe that reduced the depolarizing signal and enhanced the hyperpolarizing signal which may lead to GEVIs that only report neuronal inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arong Jung
- The Center for Functional Connectomics, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul, Korea.,College of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Dhanarajan Rajakumar
- The Center for Functional Connectomics, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul, Korea
| | - Bong-June Yoon
- College of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Bradley J Baker
- The Center for Functional Connectomics, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul, Korea.,Division of Bio-Medical Science and Technology, KIST School, Korea University of Science and Technology (UST), Seoul, Korea
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