1
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Hackley SA, Johnson LN. The photic blink reflex as an index of photophobia. Biol Psychol 2023; 184:108695. [PMID: 37757999 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsycho.2023.108695] [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: 06/20/2023] [Revised: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
Two recent studies of eye closure triggered by intense luminance increase suggest that this behavior reflects the melanopsin-based retinal activity known to underlie photophobia, the pathological aversion to light (Kardon, 2012; Kaiser et al., 2021). Early studies of the photic blink reflex (PBR) are reviewed to help guide future research on this possible objective index of photophobia. Electromyographic recordings of the lid-closure muscle, orbicularis oculi, reveal distinct bursts with typical onset latencies of 50 and 80 ms, R50 and R80, respectively. The latter component appears to be especially sensitive to visual signals from intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs) and to prior trigeminal nociceptive stimuli. The authors argue that the R80's function, in addition to protecting the eyeballs from physical contact, is to shape the upper and lower eyelids into a narrow slit to restrict incoming light. This serves to prevent retinal bleaching or injury, while allowing continued visual function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven A Hackley
- Department of Psychological Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, USA.
| | - Lenworth N Johnson
- Department of Ophthalmology, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, USA
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2
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Carscadden KA, Batstone RT, Hauser FE. Origins and evolution of biological novelty. Biol Rev Camb Philos Soc 2023; 98:1472-1491. [PMID: 37056155 DOI: 10.1111/brv.12963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Revised: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 04/15/2023]
Abstract
Understanding the origins and impacts of novel traits has been a perennial interest in many realms of ecology and evolutionary biology. Here, we build on previous evolutionary and philosophical treatments of this subject to encompass novelties across biological scales and eco-evolutionary perspectives. By defining novelties as new features at one biological scale that have emergent effects at other biological scales, we incorporate many forms of novelty that have previously been treated in isolation (such as novelty from genetic mutations, new developmental pathways, new morphological features, and new species). Our perspective is based on the fundamental idea that the emergence of a novelty, at any biological scale, depends on its environmental and genetic context. Through this lens, we outline a broad array of generative mechanisms underlying novelty and highlight how genomic tools are transforming our understanding of the origins of novelty. Lastly, we present several case studies to illustrate how novelties across biological scales and systems can be understood based on common mechanisms of change and their environmental and genetic contexts. Specifically, we highlight how gene duplication contributes to the evolution of new complex structures in visual systems; how genetic exchange in symbiosis alters functions of both host and symbiont, resulting in a novel organism; and how hybridisation between species can generate new species with new niches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly A Carscadden
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Colorado Boulder, 1900 Pleasant St, Boulder, CO, 80309, USA
| | - Rebecca T Batstone
- Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 1206 West Gregory Drive, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA
| | - Frances E Hauser
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Toronto Scarborough, 1265 Military Trail, Toronto, Ontario, M1C 1A4, Canada
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3
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Karthikeyan R, Davies WI, Gunhaga L. Non-image-forming functional roles of OPN3, OPN4 and OPN5 photopigments. JOURNAL OF PHOTOCHEMISTRY AND PHOTOBIOLOGY 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jpap.2023.100177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/07/2023] Open
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4
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Eilertsen M, Dolan DWP, Bolton CM, Karlsen R, Davies WIL, Edvardsen RB, Furmanek T, Sveier H, Migaud H, Helvik JV. Photoreception and transcriptomic response to light during early development of a teleost with a life cycle tightly controlled by seasonal changes in photoperiod. PLoS Genet 2022; 18:e1010529. [PMID: 36508414 PMCID: PMC9744326 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1010529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Light cues vary along the axis of periodicity, intensity and spectrum and perception of light is dependent on the photoreceptive capacity encoded within the genome and the opsins expressed. A global approach was taken to analyze the photoreceptive capacity and the effect of differing light conditions on a developing teleost prior to first feeding. The transcriptomes of embryos and alevins of Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) exposed to different light conditions were analyzed, including a developmental series and a circadian profile. The results showed that genes mediating nonvisual photoreception are present prior to hatching when the retina is poorly differentiated. The clock genes were expressed early, but the circadian profile showed that only two clock genes were significantly cycling before first feeding. Few genes were differentially expressed between day and night within a light condition; however, many genes were significantly different between light conditions, indicating that light environment has an impact on the transcriptome during early development. Comparing the transcriptome data from constant conditions to periodicity of white light or different colors revealed overrepresentation of genes related to photoreception, eye development, muscle contraction, degradation of metabolites and cell cycle among others, and in constant light, several clock genes were upregulated. In constant white light and periodicity of green light, genes associated with DNA replication, chromatin remodeling, cell division and DNA repair were downregulated. The study implies a direct influence of light conditions on the transcriptome profile at early developmental stages, by a complex photoreceptive system where few clock genes are cycling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariann Eilertsen
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- * E-mail: (ME); (JVH)
| | | | - Charlotte M. Bolton
- Institute of Aquaculture, University of Stirling, Stirling, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - Rita Karlsen
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Wayne I. L. Davies
- Umeå Centre for Molecular Medicine, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
- School of Life Sciences, College of Science, Health and Engineering, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
| | | | | | | | - Herve Migaud
- Institute of Aquaculture, University of Stirling, Stirling, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - Jon Vidar Helvik
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- * E-mail: (ME); (JVH)
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5
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de Grip WJ, Ganapathy S. Rhodopsins: An Excitingly Versatile Protein Species for Research, Development and Creative Engineering. Front Chem 2022; 10:879609. [PMID: 35815212 PMCID: PMC9257189 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2022.879609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2022] [Accepted: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The first member and eponym of the rhodopsin family was identified in the 1930s as the visual pigment of the rod photoreceptor cell in the animal retina. It was found to be a membrane protein, owing its photosensitivity to the presence of a covalently bound chromophoric group. This group, derived from vitamin A, was appropriately dubbed retinal. In the 1970s a microbial counterpart of this species was discovered in an archaeon, being a membrane protein also harbouring retinal as a chromophore, and named bacteriorhodopsin. Since their discovery a photogenic panorama unfolded, where up to date new members and subspecies with a variety of light-driven functionality have been added to this family. The animal branch, meanwhile categorized as type-2 rhodopsins, turned out to form a large subclass in the superfamily of G protein-coupled receptors and are essential to multiple elements of light-dependent animal sensory physiology. The microbial branch, the type-1 rhodopsins, largely function as light-driven ion pumps or channels, but also contain sensory-active and enzyme-sustaining subspecies. In this review we will follow the development of this exciting membrane protein panorama in a representative number of highlights and will present a prospect of their extraordinary future potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Willem J. de Grip
- Leiden Institute of Chemistry, Department of Biophysical Organic Chemistry, Leiden University, Leiden, Netherlands
- Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Srividya Ganapathy
- Department of Imaging Physics, Delft University of Technology, Netherlands
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Marchese NA, Ríos MN, Guido ME. The Intrinsic Blue Light Responses of Avian Müller Glial Cells Imply Calcium Release from Internal Stores. ASN Neuro 2022; 14:17590914221076698. [PMID: 35103506 PMCID: PMC8814826 DOI: 10.1177/17590914221076698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The retina of vertebrates is responsible for capturing light through visual
(cones and rods) and non-visual photoreceptors (intrinsically photosensitive
retinal ganglion cells and horizontal cells) triggering a number of essential
activities associated to image- and non-image forming functions (photic
entrainment of daily rhythms, pupillary light reflexes, pineal melatonin
inhibition, among others). Although the retina contains diverse types of
neuronal based-photoreceptors cells, originally classified as ciliary- or
rhabdomeric-like types, in recent years, it has been shown that the major glial
cell type of the retina, the Müller glial cells (MC), express blue photopigments
as Opn3 (encephalopsin) and Opn5 (neuropsin) and display light responses
associated to intracellular Ca2 + mobilization. These findings strongly propose
MC as novel retinal photodetectors (Rios et al., 2019). Herein, we further
investigated the intrinsic light responses of primary cultures of MC from
embryonic chicken retinas specially focused on Ca2 + mobilization by
fluorescence imaging and the identity of the internal Ca2 + stores responsible
for blue light responses. Results clearly demonstrated that light responses were
specific to blue light of long time exposure, and that the main Ca2 + reservoir
to trigger downstream responses came from intracellular stores localized in the
endoplasmic reticulum These observations bring more complexity to the intrinsic
photosensitivity of retinal cells, particularly with regard to the detection of
light in the blue range of visible spectra, and add novel functions to glial
cells cooperating with other photoreceptors to detect and integrate ambient
light in the retinal circuit and participate in cell to cell communication.
Summary statement:
Non-neuronal cells in the vertebrate retina, Muller glial cells, express
non-canonical photopigments and sense blue light causing calcium release from
intracellular stores strongly suggesting a novel intrinsic photosensitivity and
new regulatory events mediating light-driven processes with yet unknown
physiological implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia A Marchese
- 373607CIQUIBIC-CONICET, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, 28217Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina.,Departamento de Química Biológica "Ranwel Caputto", Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Maximiliano N Ríos
- 373607CIQUIBIC-CONICET, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, 28217Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina.,Departamento de Química Biológica "Ranwel Caputto", Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Mario E Guido
- 373607CIQUIBIC-CONICET, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, 28217Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina.,Departamento de Química Biológica "Ranwel Caputto", Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
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7
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Contreras E, Nobleman AP, Robinson PR, Schmidt TM. Melanopsin phototransduction: beyond canonical cascades. J Exp Biol 2021; 224:273562. [PMID: 34842918 PMCID: PMC8714064 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.226522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Melanopsin is a visual pigment that is expressed in a small subset of intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs). It is involved in regulating non-image forming visual behaviors, such as circadian photoentrainment and the pupillary light reflex, while also playing a role in many aspects of image-forming vision, such as contrast sensitivity. Melanopsin was initially discovered in the melanophores of the skin of the frog Xenopus, and subsequently found in a subset of ganglion cells in rat, mouse and primate retinas. ipRGCs were initially thought to be a single retinal ganglion cell population, and melanopsin was thought to activate a single, invertebrate-like Gq/transient receptor potential canonical (TRPC)-based phototransduction cascade within these cells. However, in the 20 years since the discovery of melanopsin, our knowledge of this visual pigment and ipRGCs has expanded dramatically. Six ipRGC subtypes have now been identified in the mouse, each with unique morphological, physiological and functional properties. Multiple subtypes have also been identified in other species, suggesting that this cell type diversity is a general feature of the ipRGC system. This diversity has led to a renewed interest in melanopsin phototransduction that may not follow the canonical Gq/TRPC cascade in the mouse or in the plethora of other organisms that express the melanopsin photopigment. In this Review, we discuss recent findings and discoveries that have challenged the prevailing view of melanopsin phototransduction as a single pathway that influences solely non-image forming functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ely Contreras
- Department of Neurobiology, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, USA,Interdisciplinary Biological Sciences Program, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, USA
| | - Alexis P. Nobleman
- University of Maryland Baltimore County, Department of Biological Sciences, Baltimore, MD 21250, USA,Section on Light and Circadian Rhythms (SLCR), National Institute of Mental Health, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Phyllis R. Robinson
- University of Maryland Baltimore County, Department of Biological Sciences, Baltimore, MD 21250, USA,Authors for correspondence (; )
| | - Tiffany M. Schmidt
- Department of Neurobiology, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, USA,Department of Ophthalmology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA,Authors for correspondence (; )
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8
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Eilertsen M, Clokie BGJ, Ebbesson LOE, Tanase C, Migaud H, Helvik JV. Neural activation in photosensitive brain regions of Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) after light stimulation. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0258007. [PMID: 34587204 PMCID: PMC8480854 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0258007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2021] [Accepted: 09/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Photoreceptive inputs to the teleost brain are perceived as image of the visual world and as photo-modulation of neuroendocrine and neuronal signals. The retina and pineal organ are major receptive organs with projections to various parts of the brain, but in the past decades deep brain photoreceptors have emerged as candidates for photoreceptive inputs, either independent or in combination with projections from light sensory organs. This study aimed to test the effects of narrow bandwidth light using light-emitting diodes technology on brain neural activity through putative opsin stimulation in Atlantic salmon. The expression of c-fos, a known marker of neural activity, was compared in situ between dark-adapted salmon parr and following light stimulation with different wavelengths. c-fos expression increased with duration of light stimulation and the strongest signal was obtained in fish exposed to light for 120 minutes. Distinct and specific brain regions were activated following dark to light stimulation, such as the habenula, suprachiasmatic nucleus, thalamus, and hypothalamus. The c-fos expression was overlapping with photoreceptors expressing melanopsin and/or vertebrate ancient opsin, suggesting a potential direct activation by light. Interestingly in the habenula, a distinct ring of vertebrate ancient opsin and melanopsin expressing cells is overlapping with c-fos expression after neural activation. Salmon exposed to different spectra had neural activation in similar brain regions. The most apparent difference was melanopsin expression in the lateral cells of the lateral tuberal nuclus in the hypothalamus, which appeared to be specifically activated by red light. Light-stimulated neuronal activity in the deep brain was limited to subpopulations of neurons, mainly in regions with neuronal modulation activity, retinal and pineal innervations and known presence of nonvisual photoreceptors. The overlapping expression patterns of c-fos and nonvisual opsins support direct light stimulation of deep brain photoreceptors and the importance of these systems in light induced brain activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariann Eilertsen
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- * E-mail:
| | - Benjamin G. J. Clokie
- Institute of Aquaculture, University of Stirling, Stirling, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - Lars O. E. Ebbesson
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- Norce, Bergen, Norway
| | | | - Herve Migaud
- Institute of Aquaculture, University of Stirling, Stirling, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - Jon Vidar Helvik
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
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9
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Copits BA, Gowrishankar R, O'Neill PR, Li JN, Girven KS, Yoo JJ, Meshik X, Parker KE, Spangler SM, Elerding AJ, Brown BJ, Shirley SE, Ma KKL, Vasquez AM, Stander MC, Kalyanaraman V, Vogt SK, Samineni VK, Patriarchi T, Tian L, Gautam N, Sunahara RK, Gereau RW, Bruchas MR. A photoswitchable GPCR-based opsin for presynaptic inhibition. Neuron 2021; 109:1791-1809.e11. [PMID: 33979635 PMCID: PMC8194251 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2021.04.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2021] [Revised: 04/21/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Optical manipulations of genetically defined cell types have generated significant insights into the dynamics of neural circuits. While optogenetic activation has been relatively straightforward, rapid and reversible synaptic inhibition has proven more elusive. Here, we leveraged the natural ability of inhibitory presynaptic GPCRs to suppress synaptic transmission and characterize parapinopsin (PPO) as a GPCR-based opsin for terminal inhibition. PPO is a photoswitchable opsin that couples to Gi/o signaling cascades and is rapidly activated by pulsed blue light, switched off with amber light, and effective for repeated, prolonged, and reversible inhibition. PPO rapidly and reversibly inhibits glutamate, GABA, and dopamine release at presynaptic terminals. Furthermore, PPO alters reward behaviors in a time-locked and reversible manner in vivo. These results demonstrate that PPO fills a significant gap in the neuroscience toolkit for rapid and reversible synaptic inhibition and has broad utility for spatiotemporal control of inhibitory GPCR signaling cascades.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bryan A Copits
- Washington University Pain Center, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA; Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA.
| | - Raaj Gowrishankar
- Center of Excellence in the Neurobiology of Addiction, Pain, and Emotion, Departments of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, and Pharmacology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Patrick R O'Neill
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA; Shirley and Stefan Hatos Center for Neuropharmacology, Semel Institute, Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Jun-Nan Li
- Washington University Pain Center, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA; Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Kasey S Girven
- Center of Excellence in the Neurobiology of Addiction, Pain, and Emotion, Departments of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, and Pharmacology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Judy J Yoo
- Washington University Pain Center, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA; Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Xenia Meshik
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Kyle E Parker
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Skylar M Spangler
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Abigail J Elerding
- Center of Excellence in the Neurobiology of Addiction, Pain, and Emotion, Departments of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, and Pharmacology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Bobbie J Brown
- Washington University Pain Center, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA; Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Sofia E Shirley
- Center of Excellence in the Neurobiology of Addiction, Pain, and Emotion, Departments of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, and Pharmacology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Kelly K L Ma
- Washington University Pain Center, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA; Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Alexis M Vasquez
- Department of Pharmacology, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - M Christine Stander
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Vani Kalyanaraman
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Sherri K Vogt
- Washington University Pain Center, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA; Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Vijay K Samineni
- Washington University Pain Center, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA; Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Tommaso Patriarchi
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Lin Tian
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - N Gautam
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Roger K Sunahara
- Department of Pharmacology, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Robert W Gereau
- Washington University Pain Center, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA; Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA; Department of Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Michael R Bruchas
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA; Department of Neuroscience, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA; Center of Excellence in the Neurobiology of Addiction, Pain, and Emotion, Departments of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, and Pharmacology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
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10
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All-Trans Retinoic Acid Increases DRP1 Levels and Promotes Mitochondrial Fission. Cells 2021; 10:cells10051202. [PMID: 34068960 PMCID: PMC8156392 DOI: 10.3390/cells10051202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2021] [Revised: 05/07/2021] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
In the heart, mitochondrial homeostasis is critical for sustaining normal function and optimal responses to metabolic and environmental stressors. Mitochondrial fusion and fission are thought to be necessary for maintaining a robust population of mitochondria, and disruptions in mitochondrial fission and/or fusion can lead to cellular dysfunction. The dynamin-related protein (DRP1) is an important mediator of mitochondrial fission. In this study, we investigated the direct effects of the micronutrient retinoid all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA) on the mitochondrial structure in vivo and in vitro using Western blot, confocal, and transmission electron microscopy, as well as mitochondrial network quantification using stochastic modeling. Our results showed that ATRA increases DRP1 protein levels, increases the localization of DRP1 to mitochondria in isolated mitochondrial preparations. Our results also suggested that ATRA remodels the mitochondrial ultrastructure where the mitochondrial area and perimeter were decreased and the circularity was increased. Microscopically, mitochondrial network remodeling is driven by an increased rate of fission over fusion events in ATRA, as suggested by our numerical modeling. In conclusion, ATRA results in a pharmacologically mediated increase in the DRP1 protein. It also results in the modulation of cardiac mitochondria by promoting fission events, altering the mitochondrial network, and modifying the ultrastructure of mitochondria in the heart.
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11
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Schluessel V, Rick IP, Seifert FD, Baumann C, Lee Davies WI. Not just shades of grey: life is full of colour for the ocellate river stingray (Potamotrygon motoro). J Exp Biol 2021; 224:237826. [PMID: 33771913 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.226142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2020] [Accepted: 03/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Previous studies have shown that marine stingrays have the anatomical and physiological basis for colour vision, with cone spectral sensitivity in the blue to green range of the visible spectrum. Behavioural studies on Glaucostegus typus also showed that blue and grey can be perceived and discriminated. The present study is the first to assess visual opsin genetics in the ocellate river stingray (Potamotrygon motoro) and test whether individuals perceive colour in two alternative forced choice experiments. Retinal transcriptome profiling using RNA-Seq and quantification demonstrated the presence of lws and rh2 cone opsin genes and a highly expressed single rod (rh1) opsin gene. Spectral tuning analysis predicted these vitamin A1-based visual photopigments to exhibit spectral absorbance maxima at 461 nm (rh2), 496 nm (rh1) and 555 nm (lws); suggesting the presence of dichromacy in this species. Indeed, P. motoro demonstrates the potential to be equally sensitive to wavelengths from 380 to 600 nm of the visible spectrum. Behavioural results showed that red and green plates, as well as blue and yellow plates, were readily discriminated based on colour; however, brightness differences also played a part in the discrimination of blue and yellow. Red hues of different brightness were distinguished significantly above chance level from one another. In conclusion, the genetic and behavioural results support prior data on marine stingrays. However, this study suggests that freshwater stingrays of the family Potamotrygonidae may have a visual colour system that has ecologically adapted to a riverine habitat.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vera Schluessel
- Institute of Zoology, Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms-Universität Bonn, Poppelsdorfer Schloss, Meckenheimer Allee 169, 53115 Bonn, Germany
| | - Ingolf P Rick
- Institute of Zoology, Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms-Universität Bonn, Poppelsdorfer Schloss, Meckenheimer Allee 169, 53115 Bonn, Germany
| | - Friederike Donata Seifert
- Institute of Zoology, Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms-Universität Bonn, Poppelsdorfer Schloss, Meckenheimer Allee 169, 53115 Bonn, Germany
| | - Christina Baumann
- Institute of Zoology, Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms-Universität Bonn, Poppelsdorfer Schloss, Meckenheimer Allee 169, 53115 Bonn, Germany
| | - Wayne Iwan Lee Davies
- Institute of Zoology, Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms-Universität Bonn, Poppelsdorfer Schloss, Meckenheimer Allee 169, 53115 Bonn, Germany.,Umeå Centre for Molecular Medicine (UCMM), Umeå University, 901 87 Umeå, Sweden.,School of Life Sciences, College of Science, Health and Engineering, La Trobe University, Melbourne Campus, Melbourne, VIC 3086, Australia
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12
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Warrington RE, Davies WIL, Hemmi JM, Hart NS, Potter IC, Collin SP, Hunt DM. Visual opsin expression and morphological characterization of retinal photoreceptors in the pouched lamprey (Geotria australis, Gray). J Comp Neurol 2020; 529:2265-2282. [PMID: 33336375 DOI: 10.1002/cne.25092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2020] [Revised: 12/09/2020] [Accepted: 12/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Lampreys are extant members of the agnathan (jawless) vertebrates that diverged ~500 million years ago, during a critical stage of vertebrate evolution when image-forming eyes first emerged. Among lamprey species assessed thus far, the retina of the southern hemisphere pouched lamprey, Geotria australis, is unique, in that it possesses morphologically distinct photoreceptors and expresses five visual photopigments. This study focused on determining the number of different photoreceptors present in the retina of G. australis and whether each cell type expresses a single opsin class. Five photoreceptor subtypes were identified based on ultrastructure and differential expression of one of each of the five different visual opsin classes (lws, sws1, sws2, rh1, and rh2) known to be expressed in the retina. This suggests, therefore, that the retina of G. australis possesses five spectrally and morphologically distinct photoreceptors, with the potential for complex color vision. Each photoreceptor subtype was shown to have a specific spatial distribution in the retina, which is potentially associated with changes in spectral radiance across different lines of sight. These results suggest that there have been strong selection pressures for G. australis to maintain broad spectral sensitivity for the brightly lit surface waters that this species inhabits during its marine phase. These findings provide important insights into the functional anatomy of the early vertebrate retina and the selection pressures that may have led to the evolution of complex color vision.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachael E Warrington
- Neuroscience Research Institute, University of California Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, California, USA.,School of Biological Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia.,Oceans Institute, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Wayne I L Davies
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia.,Oceans Institute, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia.,Umeå Centre for Molecular Medicine, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden.,Centre for Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Lions Eye Institute, University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia.,School of Life Sciences, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jan M Hemmi
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia.,Oceans Institute, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Nathan S Hart
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia.,Oceans Institute, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia.,Department of Biological Sciences, Macquarie University, North Ryde, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Ian C Potter
- Centre for Sustainable Aquatic Ecosystems, Murdoch University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Shaun P Collin
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia.,Oceans Institute, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia.,Centre for Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Lions Eye Institute, University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia.,School of Life Sciences, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - David M Hunt
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia.,Centre for Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Lions Eye Institute, University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
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13
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Clark WJ, Colombo M. The functional architecture, receptive field characteristics, and representation of objects in the visual network of the pigeon brain. Prog Neurobiol 2020; 195:101781. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pneurobio.2020.101781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2019] [Revised: 02/10/2020] [Accepted: 02/19/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
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14
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Non-visual Opsins and Novel Photo-Detectors in the Vertebrate Inner Retina Mediate Light Responses Within the Blue Spectrum Region. Cell Mol Neurobiol 2020; 42:59-83. [PMID: 33231827 DOI: 10.1007/s10571-020-00997-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2020] [Accepted: 11/03/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
In recent decades, a number of novel non-visual opsin photopigments belonging to the family of G protein- coupled receptors, likely involved in a number of non-image-forming processes, have been identified and characterized in cells of the inner retina of vertebrates. It is now known that the vertebrate retina is composed of visual photoreceptor cones and rods responsible for diurnal/color and nocturnal/black and white vision, and cells like the intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs) and photosensitive horizontal cells in the inner retina, both detecting blue light and expressing the photopigment melanopsin (Opn4). Remarkably, these non-visual photopigments can continue to operate even in the absence of vision under retinal degeneration. Moreover, inner retinal neurons and Müller glial cells have been shown to express other photopigments such as the photoisomerase retinal G protein-coupled receptor (RGR), encephalopsin (Opn3), and neuropsin (Opn5), all able to detect blue/violet light and implicated in chromophore recycling, retinal clock synchronization, neuron-to-glia communication, and other activities. The discovery of these new photopigments in the inner retina of vertebrates is strong evidence of novel light-regulated activities. This review focuses on the features, localization, photocascade, and putative functions of these novel non-visual opsins in an attempt to shed light on their role in the inner retina of vertebrates and in the physiology of the whole organism.
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15
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Collin SP, Davies WIL. Editorial: Biodiversity of Sensory Systems in Aquatic Vertebrates. Front Ecol Evol 2020. [DOI: 10.3389/fevo.2020.00192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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16
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Byun JH, Hyeon JY, Kim ES, Kim BH, Miyanishi H, Kagawa H, Takeuchi Y, Kim SJ, Takemura A, Hur SP. Gene expression patterns of novel visual and non-visual opsin families in immature and mature Japanese eel males. PeerJ 2020; 8:e8326. [PMID: 32149019 PMCID: PMC7049458 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.8326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2019] [Accepted: 12/02/2019] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
This study was carried out to identify and estimate physiological function of a new type of opsin subfamily present in the retina and whole brain tissues of Japanese eel using RNA–Seq transcriptome method. A total of 18 opsin subfamilies were identified through RNA–seq. The visual opsin family included Rh2, SWS2, FWO, DSO, and Exo-Rhod. The non-visual opsin family included four types of melanopsin subfamily (Opn4x1, Opn4x2, Opn4m1, and Opn4m2), peropsin, two types of neuropsin subfamily (Opn5-like, Opn5), Opn3, three types of TMT opsin subfamily (TMT1, 2, 3), VA-opsin, and parapinopsin. In terms of changes in photoreceptor gene expression in the retina of sexually mature and immature male eels, DSO mRNA increased in the maturation group. Analysis of expression of opsin family gene in male eel brain before and after maturation revealed that DSO and SWS2 expression in terms of visual opsin mRNA increased in the sexually mature group. In terms of non-visual opsin mRNA, parapinopsin mRNA increased whereas that of TMT2 decreased in the fore-brain of the sexually mature group. The mRNA for parapinopsin increased in the mid-brain of the sexually mature group, whereas those of TMT1 and TMT3 increased in the hind-brain of the sexually mature group. DSO mRNA also increased in the retina after sexual maturation, and DSO and SWS2 mRNA increased in whole brain part, suggesting that DSO and SWS2 are closely related to sexual maturation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun-Hwan Byun
- Graduate School of Engineering and Science, University of the Ryukyus, Nishihara, Okinawa, Japan
| | - Ji-Yeon Hyeon
- Jeju Research Institute, Korea Institute of Ocean Science & Technology, Jeju, Jeju, Republic of Korea.,Department of Biology, Jeju National University, Jeju, Jeju, Republic of Korea
| | - Eun-Su Kim
- Jeju Research Institute, Korea Institute of Ocean Science & Technology, Jeju, Jeju, Republic of Korea.,Department of Biology, Jeju National University, Jeju, Jeju, Republic of Korea
| | - Byeong-Hoon Kim
- Marine Science Institute, Jeju National University, Jeju, Jeju, Republic of Korea
| | - Hiroshi Miyanishi
- Department of Marine Biology and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Miyazaki, Gakuen-Kibanadai-Nishi, Miyazaki, Japan
| | - Hirohiko Kagawa
- Department of Marine Biology and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Miyazaki, Gakuen-Kibanadai-Nishi, Miyazaki, Japan
| | - Yuki Takeuchi
- Department of Chemistry, Biology and Marine Science, Faculty of Science, University of the Ryukyus, Nishihara, Okinawa, Japan
| | - Se-Jae Kim
- Department of Biology, Jeju National University, Jeju, Jeju, Republic of Korea
| | - Akihiro Takemura
- Department of Chemistry, Biology and Marine Science, Faculty of Science, University of the Ryukyus, Nishihara, Okinawa, Japan
| | - Sung-Pyo Hur
- Jeju Research Institute, Korea Institute of Ocean Science & Technology, Jeju, Jeju, Republic of Korea.,Department of Biology, Jeju National University, Jeju, Jeju, Republic of Korea
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17
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Ontogenetic expression rhythms of visual opsins in senegalese sole are modulated by photoperiod and light spectrum. J Comp Physiol B 2020; 190:185-204. [PMID: 32048006 DOI: 10.1007/s00360-020-01264-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2019] [Revised: 01/05/2020] [Accepted: 01/19/2020] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
In the fish retina, rods and cones are responsible for nocturnal vision and colour perception, respectively, and exhibit a repertoire of light-sensitive opsin photopigments that permits the adaptation to different photic environment. The metamorphosis of Senegalese sole determines a migration from pelagic to benthic environments, which is accompanied by essential changes in light intensity and spectrum. In this paper, we analysed the daily expression rhythms of rod opsin and five cone opsins during sole ontogeny in animals maintained under light-dark cycles of white (LDW), blue (LDB), red (LDR) and continuous white (LL) lights. We showed that the expression of visual opsins at early stages of development was enhanced under LDB in relation to LDW, LDR and LL. Moreover, daily rhythms of opsins were more robust under LDW and LDB conditions, in particular, before and after metamorphosis. A shift in the phase of opsin rhythms was observed between hatching and pre-metamorphosis. Metamorphosis was accompanied by a transient loss in the expression rhythms for most of the opsins, which were significantly influenced by light photoperiod and spectrum. In LDR, transcript levels and rhythms were markedly affected for the majority of the opsins analysed. Under LL, most of the opsins examined exhibited endogenous rhythms, although amplitudes and acrophases changed considerably. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study on the daily expression rhythms of visual opsins during the ontogeny of a metamorphic flatfish and further emphasises the importance of using natural lighting conditions for proper development of Senegalese sole.
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18
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Distinct mechanisms of Drosophila CRYPTOCHROME-mediated light-evoked membrane depolarization and in vivo clock resetting. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2019; 116:23339-23344. [PMID: 31659046 PMCID: PMC6859314 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1905023116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Drosophila CRYPTOCHROME (dCRY) mediates electrophysiological depolarization and circadian clock resetting in response to blue or ultraviolet (UV) light. These light-evoked biological responses operate at different timescales and possibly through different mechanisms. Whether electron transfer down a conserved chain of tryptophan residues underlies biological responses following dCRY light activation has been controversial. To examine these issues in in vivo and in ex vivo whole-brain preparations, we generated transgenic flies expressing tryptophan mutant dCRYs in the conserved electron transfer chain and then measured neuronal electrophysiological phototransduction and behavioral responses to light. Electrophysiological-evoked potential analysis shows that dCRY mediates UV and blue-light-evoked depolarizations that are long lasting, persisting for nearly a minute. Surprisingly, dCRY appears to mediate red-light-evoked depolarization in wild-type flies, absent in both cry-null flies, and following acute treatment with the flavin-specific inhibitor diphenyleneiodonium in wild-type flies. This suggests a previously unsuspected functional signaling role for a neutral semiquinone flavin state (FADH•) for dCRY. The W420 tryptophan residue located closest to the FAD-dCRY interaction site is critical for blue- and UV-light-evoked electrophysiological responses, while other tryptophan residues within electron transfer distance to W420 do not appear to be required for light-evoked electrophysiological responses. Mutation of the dCRY tryptophan residue W342, more distant from the FAD interaction site, mimics the cry-null behavioral light response to constant light exposure. These data indicate that light-evoked dCRY electrical depolarization and clock resetting are mediated by distinct mechanisms.
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19
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20
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Abstract
Although much is known about the visual system of vertebrates in general, studies regarding vision in reptiles, and snakes in particular, are scarce. Reptiles display diverse ocular structures, including different types of retinae such as pure cone, mostly rod, or duplex retinas (containing both rods and cones); however, the same five opsin-based photopigments are found in many of these animals. It is thought that ancestral snakes were nocturnal and/or fossorial, and, as such, they have lost two pigments, but retained three visual opsin classes. These are the RH1 gene (rod opsin or rhodopsin-like-1) expressed in rods and two cone opsins, namely LWS (long-wavelength-sensitive) and SWS1 (short-wavelength-sensitive-1) genes. Until recently, the study of snake photopigments has been largely ignored. However, its importance has become clear within the past few years as studies reconsider Walls’ transmutation theory, which was first proposed in the 1930s. In this study, the visual pigments of Bothrops atrox (the common lancehead), a South American pit viper, were examined. Specifically, full-length RH1 and LWS opsin gene sequences were cloned, as well as most of the SWS1 opsin gene. These sequences were subsequently used for phylogenetic analysis and to predict the wavelength of maximum absorbance (λmax) for each photopigment. This is the first report to support the potential for rudimentary color vision in a South American viper, specifically a species that is regarded as being nocturnal.
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21
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Eilertsen M, Valen R, Drivenes Ø, Ebbesson LOE, Helvik JV. Transient photoreception in the hindbrain is permissive to the life history transition of hatching in Atlantic halibut. Dev Biol 2018; 444:129-138. [PMID: 30342886 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2018.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2018] [Revised: 10/13/2018] [Accepted: 10/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
In nonmammalian vertebrates, photoreception takes place in the deep brain already early in development, but knowledge is lacking about the functions of these nonvisual photoreceptive systems. Prior to hatching, Atlantic halibut has a transient bilateral cluster of photoreceptive cells in the hindbrain. The cluster is imbedded in a neuronal network projecting to the narrow belt of hatching glands in the yolk sac. In halibut, hatching is inhibited in light and activated by transfer to darkness and c-fos analysis during hatching shows that the hindbrain cluster and hatching glands have neural activation. Unexpectedly, the hindbrain cluster expresses dual photopigments, vertebrate ancient opsin and melanopsin. Evolutionarily, these opsins are believed to belong to different classes of photopigments found in rhabdomeric and ciliary photoreceptors. The concept that an organism develops transient light sensitivity to target critical aspects of life history transitions as hatching provides a fascinating landscape to investigate the timing of other biological events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariann Eilertsen
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Bergen, N- 5020 Bergen, Norway.
| | - Ragnhild Valen
- Department of Molecular Biology, University of Bergen, N- 5020 Bergen, Norway
| | - Øyvind Drivenes
- Department of Molecular Biology, University of Bergen, N- 5020 Bergen, Norway
| | - Lars O E Ebbesson
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Bergen, N- 5020 Bergen, Norway; Uni Research AS, Thormøhlensgt. 55, N-5008 Bergen, Norway
| | - Jon Vidar Helvik
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Bergen, N- 5020 Bergen, Norway
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22
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Viswanathan S, Berlin Grace V. Reduced RAR-β gene expression in Benzo(a)Pyrene induced lung cancer mice is upregulated by DOTAP lipo-ATRA treatment. Gene 2018; 668:18-26. [DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2018.05.051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2018] [Revised: 04/26/2018] [Accepted: 05/15/2018] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
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23
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Haas R, Alenciks E, Meddle S, Fraley GS. Expression of deep brain photoreceptors in the Pekin drake: a possible role in the maintenance of testicular function. Poult Sci 2018; 96:2908-2919. [PMID: 28339754 PMCID: PMC5850723 DOI: 10.3382/ps/pex037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2016] [Accepted: 02/04/2017] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Several putative deep brain photoreceptors (DBPs) have been identified, such as melanopsin, opsin 5, and vertebrate ancient opsin. The aim of this study was to elucidate the role of DBPs in gonadal regulation in the Pekin drake. As previously reported, we observed opsin-like immunoreactivity (-ir) in the lateral septum (LS), melanopsin-ir in the premammillary nucleus (PMM), and opsin 5-ir in the periventricular organ. To determine the sensitivity of the DBPs to specific wavelengths of light, drakes were given an acute exposure to red, blue, or white light. Blue light stimulated an increase (P < 0.01) in the immediate early gene fra-2-ir co-expression in melanopsin-ir neurons in the PMM, and red light increased (P < 0.05) fra-2-ir co-expression in opsin-ir neurons, suggesting these neurons are blue- and red-receptive, respectively. To further investigate this photoperiodic response, we exposed drakes to chronic red, long-day white, short-day white, or blue light. Blue light elicited gonadal regression, as testes weight (P < 0.001) and plasma luteinizing hormone (LH) levels (P < 0.001) were lower compared to drakes housed under long-day white light. Photo-regressed drakes experienced complete gonadal recrudescence when housed under long-day red and blue light. qRT-PCR analyses showed that gonadally regressed drakes showed reduced levels (P < 0.01) of gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH) mRNA but not photoreceptor or GnIH mRNAs compared to gonadally functional drakes. Our data suggest DBP in the LS may be rhodosin and multiple DBPs are required to fully maintain gonadal function in Pekin drakes.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Haas
- Biology Department, Hope College, Holland, MI
| | - E Alenciks
- Biology Department, Hope College, Holland, MI
| | - S Meddle
- The Roslin Institute and Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, The Roslin Institute Building, The University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush Campus, Midlothian EH25 9RG, Scotland. UK
| | - G S Fraley
- Biology Department, Hope College, Holland, MI
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24
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Zele AJ, Feigl B, Adhikari P, Maynard ML, Cao D. Melanopsin photoreception contributes to human visual detection, temporal and colour processing. Sci Rep 2018; 8:3842. [PMID: 29497109 PMCID: PMC5832793 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-22197-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2017] [Accepted: 02/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The visual consequences of melanopsin photoreception in humans are not well understood. Here we studied melanopsin photoreception using a technique of photoreceptor silent substitution with five calibrated spectral lights after minimising the effects of individual differences in optical pre-receptoral filtering and desensitising penumbral cones in the shadow of retinal blood vessels. We demonstrate that putative melanopsin-mediated image-forming vision corresponds to an opponent S-OFF L + M-ON response property, with an average temporal resolution up to approximately 5 Hz, and >10x higher thresholds than red-green colour vision. With a capacity for signalling colour and integrating slowly changing lights, melanopsin-expressing intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells maybe the fifth photoreceptor type for peripheral vision.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew J Zele
- Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Brisbane, Australia.
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Brisbane, Australia.
| | - Beatrix Feigl
- Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Brisbane, Australia
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Brisbane, Australia
- Queensland Eye Institute, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Prakash Adhikari
- Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Brisbane, Australia
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Brisbane, Australia
| | - Michelle L Maynard
- Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Brisbane, Australia
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Brisbane, Australia
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Brisbane, Australia
| | - Dingcai Cao
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, USA
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25
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Bertolesi GE, McFarlane S. Seeing the light to change colour: An evolutionary perspective on the role of melanopsin in neuroendocrine circuits regulating light-mediated skin pigmentation. Pigment Cell Melanoma Res 2018; 31:354-373. [PMID: 29239123 DOI: 10.1111/pcmr.12678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2017] [Accepted: 12/05/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Melanopsin photopigments, Opn4x and Opn4m, were evolutionary selected to "see the light" in systems that regulate skin colour change. In this review, we analyse the roles of melanopsins, and how critical evolutionary developments, including the requirement for thermoregulation and ultraviolet protection, the emergence of a background adaptation mechanism in land-dwelling amphibian ancestors and the loss of a photosensitive pineal gland in mammals, may have helped sculpt the mechanisms that regulate light-controlled skin pigmentation. These mechanisms include melanopsin in skin pigment cells directly inducing skin darkening for thermoregulation/ultraviolet protection; melanopsin-expressing eye cells controlling neuroendocrine circuits to mediate background adaptation in amphibians in response to surface-reflected light; and pineal gland secretion of melatonin phased to environmental illuminance to regulate circadian and seasonal variation in skin colour, a process initiated by melanopsin-expressing eye cells in mammals, and by as yet unknown non-visual opsins in the pineal gland of non-mammals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel E Bertolesi
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Sarah McFarlane
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
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26
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Musser JM, Arendt D. Loss and gain of cone types in vertebrate ciliary photoreceptor evolution. Dev Biol 2017; 431:26-35. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2017.08.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2017] [Revised: 08/28/2017] [Accepted: 08/30/2017] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
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27
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de Busserolles F, Cortesi F, Helvik JV, Davies WIL, Templin RM, Sullivan RKP, Michell CT, Mountford JK, Collin SP, Irigoien X, Kaartvedt S, Marshall J. Pushing the limits of photoreception in twilight conditions: The rod-like cone retina of the deep-sea pearlsides. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2017; 3:eaao4709. [PMID: 29134201 PMCID: PMC5677336 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.aao4709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2017] [Accepted: 10/17/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Most vertebrates have a duplex retina comprising two photoreceptor types, rods for dim-light (scotopic) vision and cones for bright-light (photopic) and color vision. However, deep-sea fishes are only active in dim-light conditions; hence, most species have lost their cones in favor of a simplex retina composed exclusively of rods. Although the pearlsides, Maurolicus spp., have such a pure rod retina, their behavior is at odds with this simplex visual system. Contrary to other deep-sea fishes, pearlsides are mostly active during dusk and dawn close to the surface, where light levels are intermediate (twilight or mesopic) and require the use of both rod and cone photoreceptors. This study elucidates this paradox by demonstrating that the pearlside retina does not have rod photoreceptors only; instead, it is composed almost exclusively of transmuted cone photoreceptors. These transmuted cells combine the morphological characteristics of a rod photoreceptor with a cone opsin and a cone phototransduction cascade to form a unique photoreceptor type, a rod-like cone, specifically tuned to the light conditions of the pearlsides' habitat (blue-shifted light at mesopic intensities). Combining properties of both rods and cones into a single cell type, instead of using two photoreceptor types that do not function at their full potential under mesopic conditions, is likely to be the most efficient and economical solution to optimize visual performance. These results challenge the standing paradigm of the function and evolution of the vertebrate duplex retina and emphasize the need for a more comprehensive evaluation of visual systems in general.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fanny de Busserolles
- Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
- Red Sea Research Center, Biological and Environmental Sciences and Engineering Division, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
| | - Fabio Cortesi
- Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Jon Vidar Helvik
- Department of Biology, University of Bergen, Bergen 5020, Norway
| | - Wayne I. L. Davies
- The Oceans Institute, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia 6009, Australia
- School of Biological Science, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia 6009, Australia
- Lions Eye Institute, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia 6009, Australia
| | - Rachel M. Templin
- Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Robert K. P. Sullivan
- Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Craig T. Michell
- Red Sea Research Center, Biological and Environmental Sciences and Engineering Division, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Environmental and Biological Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, Yliopistokatu 7, FI-80101 Joensuu, Finland
| | - Jessica K. Mountford
- The Oceans Institute, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia 6009, Australia
- School of Biological Science, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia 6009, Australia
- Lions Eye Institute, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia 6009, Australia
| | - Shaun P. Collin
- The Oceans Institute, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia 6009, Australia
- School of Biological Science, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia 6009, Australia
- Lions Eye Institute, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia 6009, Australia
| | - Xabier Irigoien
- Red Sea Research Center, Biological and Environmental Sciences and Engineering Division, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
- Marine Research, AZTI - Tecnalia, Herrera Kaia, Portualdea z/g, 20110 Pasaia (Gipuzkoa), Spain
- IKERBASQUE, Basque Foundation for Science, Bilbao, Spain
| | - Stein Kaartvedt
- Red Sea Research Center, Biological and Environmental Sciences and Engineering Division, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Biosciences, University of Oslo, Oslo 0316, Norway
| | - Justin Marshall
- Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
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28
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Laaß M, Kaestner A. Evidence for convergent evolution of a neocortex-like structure in a late Permian therapsid. J Morphol 2017. [PMID: 28621462 DOI: 10.1002/jmor.20712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The special sensory, motor, and cognitive capabilities of mammals mainly depend upon the neocortex, which is the six-layered cover of the mammalian forebrain. The origin of the neocortex is still controversial and the current view is that larger brains with neocortex first evolved in late Triassic Mammaliaformes. Here, we report the earliest evidence of a structure analogous to the mammalian neocortex in a forerunner of mammals, the fossorial anomodont Kawingasaurus fossilis from the late Permian of Tanzania. The endocranial cavity of Kawingasaurus is almost completely ossified, which allowed a less hypothetical virtual reconstruction of the brain endocast to be generated. A parietal foramen is absent. A small pit between the cerebral hemispheres is interpreted as a pineal body. The inflated cerebral hemispheres are demarcated from each other by a median sulcus and by a possible rhinal fissure from the rest of the endocast. The encephalization quotient estimated by using the method of Eisenberg is 0.52, which is 2-3 times larger than in other nonmammalian synapsids. Another remarkable feature are the extremely ramified infraorbital canals in the snout. The shape of the brain endocast, the extremely ramified maxillary canals as well as the small frontally placed eyes suggest that special sensory adaptations to the subterranean habitat such as a well developed sense of touch and binocular vision may have driven the parallel evolution of an equivalent of the mammalian neocortex and a mammal-like lemnothalamic visual system in Kawingasaurus. The gross anatomy of the brain endocast of Kawingasaurus supports the Outgroup Hypothesis, according to which the neocortex evolved from the dorsal pallium of an amphibian-like ancestor, which receives sensory projections from the lemnothalamic pathway. The enlarged brain as well as the absence of a parietal foramen may be an indication for a higher metabolic rate of Kawingasaurus compared to other nonmammalian synapsids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Laaß
- Department of General Zoology, Faculty of Biology, University of Duisburg-Essen, Universitätsstr. 2, Essen, D-45117, Germany
| | - Anders Kaestner
- Laboratory for Neutron Scattering and Imaging, Paul Scherrer Institute, Villigen PSI, CH-5232, Switzerland
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29
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Georg B, Ghelli A, Giordano C, Ross-Cisneros FN, Sadun AA, Carelli V, Hannibal J, La Morgia C. Melanopsin-expressing retinal ganglion cells are resistant to cell injury, but not always. Mitochondrion 2017; 36:77-84. [PMID: 28412540 DOI: 10.1016/j.mito.2017.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2016] [Revised: 03/14/2017] [Accepted: 04/07/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Melanopsin retinal ganglion cells (mRGCs) are intrinsically photosensitive RGCs deputed to non-image forming functions of the eye such as synchronization of circadian rhythms to light-dark cycle. These cells are characterized by unique electrophysiological, anatomical and biochemical properties and are usually more resistant than conventional RGCs to different insults, such as axotomy and different paradigms of stress. We also demonstrated that these cells are relatively spared compared to conventional RGCs in mitochondrial optic neuropathies (Leber's hereditary optic neuropathy and Dominant Optic Atrophy). However, these cells are affected in other neurodegenerative conditions, such as glaucoma and Alzheimer's disease. We here review the current evidences that may underlie this dichotomy. We also present our unpublished data on cell experiments demonstrating that melanopsin itself does not explain the robustness of these cells and some preliminary data on immunohistochemical assessment of mitochondria in mRGCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Birgitte Georg
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg Hospital, Faculty Health Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Anna Ghelli
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Carla Giordano
- Department of Radiology, Oncology and Pathology, Sapienza, University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Alfredo A Sadun
- Doheny Eye Institute, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Department of Ophthalmology, David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Valerio Carelli
- IRCCS Institute of Neurological Sciences of Bologna, Bellaria Hospital, Bologna, Italy; Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences (DIBINEM), University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Jens Hannibal
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg Hospital, Faculty Health Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Chiara La Morgia
- IRCCS Institute of Neurological Sciences of Bologna, Bellaria Hospital, Bologna, Italy; Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences (DIBINEM), University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy.
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30
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Dekens MPS, Foulkes NS, Tessmar-Raible K. Instrument design and protocol for the study of light controlled processes in aquatic organisms, and its application to examine the effect of infrared light on zebrafish. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0172038. [PMID: 28212399 PMCID: PMC5315407 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0172038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2016] [Accepted: 01/30/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The acquisition of reliable data strongly depends on experimental design. When studying the effects of light on processes such as behaviour and physiology it is crucial to maintain all environmental conditions constant apart from the one under study. Furthermore, the precise values of the environmental factors applied during the experiment should be known. Although seemingly obvious, these conditions are often not met when the effects of light are being studied. Here, we document and discuss the wavelengths and light intensities of natural and artificial light sources. We present standardised experimental protocols together with building plans of a custom made instrument designed to accurately control light and temperature for experiments using fresh water or marine species. Infrared light is commonly used for recording behaviour and in electrophysiological experiments although the properties of fish photoreceptors potentially allow detection into the far red. As an example of our experimental procedure we have applied our protocol and instrument to specifically test the impact of infrared light (840 nm) on the zebrafish circadian clock, which controls many aspects of behaviour, physiology and metabolism. We demonstrate that infrared light does not influence the zebrafish circadian clock. Our results help to provide a solid framework for the future study of light dependent processes in aquatic organisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcus P. S. Dekens
- Max Perutz Laboratories, Vienna Biocenter, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Nicholas S. Foulkes
- Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, Eggenstein, Germany
- Centre for Organismal Studies, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Kristin Tessmar-Raible
- Max Perutz Laboratories, Vienna Biocenter, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Research Platform “Rhythms of Life”, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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31
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Kelley JL, Davies WIL. The Biological Mechanisms and Behavioral Functions of Opsin-Based Light Detection by the Skin. Front Ecol Evol 2016. [DOI: 10.3389/fevo.2016.00106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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32
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Kingston ACN, Cronin TW. Diverse Distributions of Extraocular Opsins in Crustaceans, Cephalopods, and Fish. Integr Comp Biol 2016; 56:820-833. [PMID: 27252200 DOI: 10.1093/icb/icw022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Non-visual and extraocular photoreceptors are common among animals, but current understanding linking molecular pathways to physiological function of these receptors is lacking. Opsin diversity in extraocular tissues suggests that many putative extraocular photoreceptors utilize the "visual" phototransduction pathway-the same phototransduction pathway as photoreceptors within the retina dedicated to light detection for image sensing. Here, we provide a brief overview of the current understanding of non-visual and extraocular photoreceptors, and contribute a synopsis of several novel putative extraocular photoreceptors that use both visual and non-visual phototransduction pathways. Crayfish, cephalopods, and flat fish express opsins in diverse tissues, suggesting the presence of extraocular photoreceptors. In most cases, we find that these animals use the same phototransduction pathway that is utilized in the retinas for image-formation. However, we also find the presence of non-visual phototransduction components in the skin of flounders. Our evidence suggests that extraocular photoreceptors may employ a number of phototransduction pathways that do not appear to correlate with purpose or location of the photoreceptor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra C N Kingston
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Maryland Baltimore County 1000 Hilltop Circle, Baltimore, MD 21250, USA
| | - Thomas W Cronin
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Maryland Baltimore County 1000 Hilltop Circle, Baltimore, MD 21250, USA
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33
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Abstract
The recent availability of multiple avian genomes has laid the foundation for a huge variety of comparative genomics analyses including scans for changes and signatures of selection that arose from adaptions to new ecological niches. Nocturnal adaptation in birds, unlike in mammals, is comparatively recent, a fact that makes birds good candidates for identifying early genetic changes that support adaptation to dim-light environments. In this review, we give examples of comparative genomics analyses that could shed light on mechanisms of adaptation to nocturnality. We present advantages and disadvantages of both "data-driven" and "hypothesis-driven" approaches that lead to the discovery of candidate genes and genetic changes promoting nocturnality. We anticipate that the accessibility of multiple genomes from the Genome 10K Project will allow a better understanding of evolutionary mechanisms and adaptation in general.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana Le Duc
- Medical Faculty, Rudolf Schönheimer Institute of Biochemistry, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany.,Department of Evolutionary Genetics, Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Torsten Schöneberg
- Medical Faculty, Rudolf Schönheimer Institute of Biochemistry, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
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34
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Lamb TD, Patel H, Chuah A, Natoli RC, Davies WIL, Hart NS, Collin SP, Hunt DM. Evolution of Vertebrate Phototransduction: Cascade Activation. Mol Biol Evol 2016; 33:2064-87. [PMID: 27189541 PMCID: PMC4948711 DOI: 10.1093/molbev/msw095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
We applied high-throughput sequencing to eye tissue from several species of basal vertebrates (a hagfish, two species of lamprey, and five species of gnathostome fish), and we analyzed the mRNA sequences for the proteins underlying activation of the phototransduction cascade. The molecular phylogenies that we constructed from these sequences are consistent with the 2R WGD model of two rounds of whole genome duplication. Our analysis suggests that agnathans retain an additional representative (that has been lost in gnathostomes) in each of the gene families we studied; the evidence is strong for the G-protein α subunit (GNAT) and the cGMP phosphodiesterase (PDE6), and indicative for the cyclic nucleotide-gated channels (CNGA and CNGB). Two of the species (the hagfish Eptatretus cirrhatus and the lamprey Mordacia mordax) possess only a single class of photoreceptor, simplifying deductions about the composition of cascade protein isoforms utilized in their photoreceptors. For the other lamprey, Geotria australis, analysis of the ratios of transcript levels in downstream and upstream migrant animals permits tentative conclusions to be drawn about the isoforms used in four of the five spectral classes of photoreceptor. Overall, our results suggest that agnathan rod-like photoreceptors utilize the same GNAT1 as gnathostomes, together with a homodimeric PDE6 that may be agnathan-specific, whereas agnathan cone-like photoreceptors utilize a GNAT that may be agnathan-specific, together with the same PDE6C as gnathostomes. These findings help elucidate the evolution of the vertebrate phototransduction cascade from an ancestral chordate phototransduction cascade that existed prior to the vertebrate radiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trevor D Lamb
- Eccles Institute of Neuroscience, John Curtin School of Medical Research, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia
| | - Hardip Patel
- Genome Discovery Unit, John Curtin School of Medical Research, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia Department of Genome Biology, John Curtin School of Medical Research, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia
| | - Aaron Chuah
- Genome Discovery Unit, John Curtin School of Medical Research, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia
| | - Riccardo C Natoli
- Eccles Institute of Neuroscience, John Curtin School of Medical Research, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia ANU Medical School, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia
| | - Wayne I L Davies
- School of Animal Biology, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia Oceans Institute, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia Lions Eye Institute, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Nathan S Hart
- School of Animal Biology, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia Oceans Institute, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia Department of Biological Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Shaun P Collin
- School of Animal Biology, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia Oceans Institute, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia Lions Eye Institute, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - David M Hunt
- School of Animal Biology, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia Lions Eye Institute, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
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35
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Díaz NM, Morera LP, Guido ME. Melanopsin and the Non-visual Photochemistry in the Inner Retina of Vertebrates. Photochem Photobiol 2015; 92:29-44. [DOI: 10.1111/php.12545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2015] [Accepted: 10/09/2015] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Nicolás M. Díaz
- Departamento de Química Biológica-CIQUIBIC (CONICET); Facultad de Ciencias Químicas; Universidad Nacional de Córdoba (UNC); Córdoba Argentina
| | - Luis P. Morera
- Departamento de Química Biológica-CIQUIBIC (CONICET); Facultad de Ciencias Químicas; Universidad Nacional de Córdoba (UNC); Córdoba Argentina
| | - Mario E. Guido
- Departamento de Química Biológica-CIQUIBIC (CONICET); Facultad de Ciencias Químicas; Universidad Nacional de Córdoba (UNC); Córdoba Argentina
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36
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Benoit J, Abdala F, Van den Brandt MJ, Manger PR, Rubidge BS. Physiological implications of the abnormal absence of the parietal foramen in a late Permian cynodont (Therapsida). Naturwissenschaften 2015; 102:69. [PMID: 26538062 DOI: 10.1007/s00114-015-1321-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2015] [Revised: 08/10/2015] [Accepted: 10/26/2015] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The third eye (pineal eye), an organ responsible for regulating exposure to sunlight in extant ectotherms, is located in an opening on the dorsal surface of the skull, the parietal foramen. The parietal foramen is absent in extant mammals but often observed in basal therapsids, the stem-group to true mammals. Here, we report the absence of the parietal foramen in a specimen of Cynosaurus suppostus, a Late Permian cynodont from South Africa (SA). Comparison with Procynosuchus delaharpeae, a contemporaneous non-mammalian cynodont from SA, demonstrates that the absence of this foramen is an abnormal condition for such a basal species. Because seasonality was marked during the Late Permian in SA, it is proposed that the third eye was functionally redundant in Cynosaurus, possibly due to the acquisition of better thermoregulation or the evolution of specialized cells in the lateral eyes to compensate for the role of the third eye.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julien Benoit
- Evolutionary Studies Institute (ESI), School of Geosciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Braamfontein, 2050, Johannesburg, South Africa. .,School of Anatomical Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, 7 York Road, Parktown, 2193, Johannesburg, South Africa.
| | - Fernando Abdala
- Evolutionary Studies Institute (ESI), School of Geosciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Braamfontein, 2050, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Marc J Van den Brandt
- Evolutionary Studies Institute (ESI), School of Geosciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Braamfontein, 2050, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Paul R Manger
- School of Anatomical Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, 7 York Road, Parktown, 2193, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Bruce S Rubidge
- Evolutionary Studies Institute (ESI), School of Geosciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Braamfontein, 2050, Johannesburg, South Africa.,School for Geosciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Braamfontein, 2050, Johannesburg, South Africa
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37
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Davies WIL, Tamai TK, Zheng L, Fu JK, Rihel J, Foster RG, Whitmore D, Hankins MW. An extended family of novel vertebrate photopigments is widely expressed and displays a diversity of function. Genome Res 2015; 25:1666-79. [PMID: 26450929 PMCID: PMC4617963 DOI: 10.1101/gr.189886.115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2015] [Accepted: 07/15/2015] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Light affects animal physiology and behavior more than simply through classical visual, image-forming pathways. Nonvisual photoreception regulates numerous biological systems, including circadian entrainment, DNA repair, metabolism, and behavior. However, for the majority of these processes, the photoreceptive molecules involved are unknown. Given the diversity of photophysiological responses, the question arises whether a single photopigment or a greater diversity of proteins within the opsin superfamily detect photic stimuli. Here, a functional genomics approach identified the full complement of photopigments in a highly light-sensitive model vertebrate, the zebrafish (Danio rerio), and characterized their tissue distribution, expression levels, and biochemical properties. The results presented here reveal the presence of 42 distinct genes encoding 10 classical visual photopigments and 32 nonvisual opsins, including 10 novel opsin genes comprising four new pigment classes. Consistent with the presence of light-entrainable circadian oscillators in zebrafish, all adult tissues examined expressed two or more opsins, including several novel opsins. Spectral and electrophysiological analyses of the new opsins demonstrate that they form functional photopigments, each with unique chromophore-binding and wavelength specificities. This study has revealed a remarkable number and diversity of photopigments in zebrafish, the largest number so far discovered for any vertebrate. Found in amphibians, reptiles, birds, and all three mammalian clades, most of these genes are not restricted to teleosts. Therefore, nonvisual light detection is far more complex than initially appreciated, which has significant biological implications in understanding photoreception in vertebrates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wayne I L Davies
- School of Animal Biology and University of Western Australia Oceans Institute, University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia 6009, Australia; Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX3 9DU, United Kingdom
| | - T Katherine Tamai
- Centre for Cell and Molecular Dynamics, Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University College London, London, WC1E 6DE, United Kingdom
| | - Lei Zheng
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX3 9DU, United Kingdom
| | - Josephine K Fu
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX3 9DU, United Kingdom
| | - Jason Rihel
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University College London, London, WC1E 6BT, United Kingdom
| | - Russell G Foster
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX3 9DU, United Kingdom
| | - David Whitmore
- Centre for Cell and Molecular Dynamics, Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University College London, London, WC1E 6DE, United Kingdom
| | - Mark W Hankins
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX3 9DU, United Kingdom
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38
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Poletini MO, Ramos BC, Moraes MN, Castrucci AML. Nonvisual Opsins and the Regulation of Peripheral Clocks by Light and Hormones. Photochem Photobiol 2015; 91:1046-55. [DOI: 10.1111/php.12494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2015] [Accepted: 06/23/2015] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Maristela O. Poletini
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics; Institute of Biological Sciences; Federal University of Minas Gerais; Belo Horizonte Brazil
- Department of Physiology; Institute of Biosciences; University of São Paulo; São Paulo Brazil
| | - Bruno C. Ramos
- Department of Physiology; Institute of Biosciences; University of São Paulo; São Paulo Brazil
| | - Maria Nathalia Moraes
- Department of Physiology; Institute of Biosciences; University of São Paulo; São Paulo Brazil
| | - Ana Maria L. Castrucci
- Department of Physiology; Institute of Biosciences; University of São Paulo; São Paulo Brazil
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39
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García-Fernández JM, Cernuda-Cernuda R, Davies WIL, Rodgers J, Turton M, Peirson SN, Follett BK, Halford S, Hughes S, Hankins MW, Foster RG. The hypothalamic photoreceptors regulating seasonal reproduction in birds: a prime role for VA opsin. Front Neuroendocrinol 2015; 37:13-28. [PMID: 25448788 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2014.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2014] [Revised: 10/25/2014] [Accepted: 11/02/2014] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Extraretinal photoreceptors located within the medio-basal hypothalamus regulate the photoperiodic control of seasonal reproduction in birds. An action spectrum for this response describes an opsin photopigment with a λmax of ∼ 492 nm. Beyond this however, the specific identity of the photopigment remains unresolved. Several candidates have emerged including rod-opsin; melanopsin (OPN4); neuropsin (OPN5); and vertebrate ancient (VA) opsin. These contenders are evaluated against key criteria used routinely in photobiology to link orphan photopigments to specific biological responses. To date, only VA opsin can easily satisfy all criteria and we propose that this photopigment represents the prime candidate for encoding daylength and driving seasonal breeding in birds. We also show that VA opsin is co-expressed with both gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) and arginine-vasotocin (AVT) neurons. These new data suggest that GnRH and AVT neurosecretory pathways are endogenously photosensitive and that our current understanding of how these systems are regulated will require substantial revision.
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Affiliation(s)
- José M García-Fernández
- Departamento de Morfología y Biología Celular, Universidad de Oviedo, INEUROPA (Instituto de Neurociencias del Principado de Asturias), Spain
| | - Rafael Cernuda-Cernuda
- Departamento de Morfología y Biología Celular, Universidad de Oviedo, INEUROPA (Instituto de Neurociencias del Principado de Asturias), Spain
| | - Wayne I L Davies
- School of Animal Biology and University of Western Australia Oceans Institute, University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Jessica Rodgers
- Sleep and Circadian Neuroscience Institute, Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Headley Way, Oxford OX3 9DU, United Kingdom
| | - Michael Turton
- Sleep and Circadian Neuroscience Institute, Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Headley Way, Oxford OX3 9DU, United Kingdom
| | - Stuart N Peirson
- Sleep and Circadian Neuroscience Institute, Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Headley Way, Oxford OX3 9DU, United Kingdom
| | - Brian K Follett
- Department of Zoology, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3PS, United Kingdom.eNuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Headley Way, Oxford OX3 9DU, United Kingdom
| | - Stephanie Halford
- Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Headley Way, Oxford OX3 9DU, United Kingdom
| | - Steven Hughes
- Sleep and Circadian Neuroscience Institute, Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Headley Way, Oxford OX3 9DU, United Kingdom
| | - Mark W Hankins
- Sleep and Circadian Neuroscience Institute, Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Headley Way, Oxford OX3 9DU, United Kingdom
| | - Russell G Foster
- Sleep and Circadian Neuroscience Institute, Nuffield Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Headley Way, Oxford OX3 9DU, United Kingdom.
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40
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Ye J, Zhao L, Bogale RF, Gao Y, Wang X, Qian X, Guo S, Zhao J, Ning G. Highly Selective Detection of 2,4,6-Trinitrophenol and Cu2+Ions Based on a Fluorescent Cadmium-Pamoate Metal-Organic Framework. Chemistry 2014; 21:2029-37. [DOI: 10.1002/chem.201405267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 201] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2014] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
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41
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Ramos BCR, Moraes MNCM, Poletini MO, Lima LHRG, Castrucci AML. From blue light to clock genes in zebrafish ZEM-2S cells. PLoS One 2014; 9:e106252. [PMID: 25184495 PMCID: PMC4153568 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0106252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2014] [Accepted: 07/29/2014] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Melanopsin has been implicated in the mammalian photoentrainment by blue light. This photopigment, which maximally absorbs light at wavelengths between 470 and 480 nm depending on the species, is found in the retina of all classes of vertebrates so far studied. In mammals, melanopsin activation triggers a signaling pathway which resets the circadian clock in the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN). Unlike mammals, Drosophila melanogaster and Danio rerio do not rely only on their eyes to perceive light, in fact their whole body may be capable of detecting light and entraining their circadian clock. Melanopsin, teleost multiple tissue (tmt) opsin and others such as neuropsin and va-opsin, are found in the peripheral tissues of Danio rerio, however, there are limited data concerning the photopigment/s or the signaling pathway/s directly involved in light detection. Here, we demonstrate that melanopsin is a strong candidate to mediate synchronization of zebrafish cells. The deduced amino acid sequence of melanopsin, although being a vertebrate opsin, is more similar to invertebrate than vertebrate photopigments, and melanopsin photostimulation triggers the phosphoinositide pathway through activation of a G(q/11)-type G protein. We stimulated cultured ZEM-2S cells with blue light at wavelengths consistent with melanopsin maximal absorption, and evaluated the time course expression of per1b, cry1b, per2 and cry1a. Using quantitative PCR, we showed that blue light is capable of slightly modulating per1b and cry1b genes, and drastically increasing per2 and cry1a expression. Pharmacological assays indicated that per2 and cry1a responses to blue light are evoked through the activation of the phosphoinositide pathway, which crosstalks with nitric oxide (NO) and mitogen activated protein MAP kinase (MAPK) to activate the clock genes. Our results suggest that melanopsin may be important in mediating the photoresponse in Danio rerio ZEM-2S cells, and provide new insights about the modulation of clock genes in peripheral clocks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruno C. R. Ramos
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Biosciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Maristela O. Poletini
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Biosciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Leonardo H. R. G. Lima
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Biosciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ana Maria L. Castrucci
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Biosciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- * E-mail:
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Eilertsen M, Drivenes O, Edvardsen RB, Bradley CA, Ebbesson LOE, Helvik JV. Exorhodopsin and melanopsin systems in the pineal complex and brain at early developmental stages of Atlantic halibut (Hippoglossus hippoglossus). J Comp Neurol 2014; 522:4003-22. [PMID: 25044160 DOI: 10.1002/cne.23652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2014] [Revised: 07/03/2014] [Accepted: 07/09/2014] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
The complexity of the nonvisual photoreception systems in teleosts has just started to be appreciated, with colocalization of multiple photoreceptor types with unresolved functions. Here we describe an intricate expression pattern of melanopsins in early life stages of the marine flat fish Atlantic halibut (Hippoglossus hippoglossus), a period when the unpigmented brain is directly exposed to environmental photons. We show a refined and extensive expression of melanopsins in the halibut brain already at the time of hatching, long before the eyes are functional. We detect melanopsin in the habenula, suprachiasmatic nucleus, dorsal thalamus, and lateral tubular nucleus of first feeding larvae, suggesting conserved functions of the melanopsins in marine teleosts. The complex expression of melanopsins already at larval stages indicates the importance of nonvisual photoreception early in development. Most strikingly, we detect expression of both exorhodopsin and melanopsin in the pineal complex of halibut larvae. Double-fluorescence labeling showed that two clusters of melanopsin-positive cells are located lateral to the central rosette of exorhodopsin-positive cells. The localization of different photopigments in the pineal complex suggests that two parallel photoreceptor systems may be active. Furthermore, the dispersed melanopsin-positive cells in the spinal cord of halibut larvae at the time of hatching may be primary sensory cells or interneurons representing the first example of dispersed high-order photoreceptor cells. The appearance of nonvisual opsins early in the development of halibut provides an alternative model for studying the evolution and functional significance of nonvisual opsins.
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43
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Vyazovskiy VV, Delogu A. NREM and REM Sleep: Complementary Roles in Recovery after Wakefulness. Neuroscientist 2014; 20:203-19. [PMID: 24598308 DOI: 10.1177/1073858413518152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
The overall function of sleep is hypothesized to provide "recovery" after preceding waking activities, thereby ensuring optimal functioning during subsequent wakefulness. However, the functional significance of the temporal dynamics of sleep, manifested in the slow homeostatic process and the alternation between non-rapid eye movement (NREM) and REM sleep remains unclear. We propose that NREM and REM sleep have distinct and complementary contributions to the overall function of sleep. Specifically, we suggest that cortical slow oscillations, occurring within specific functionally interconnected neuronal networks during NREM sleep, enable information processing, synaptic plasticity, and prophylactic cellular maintenance ("recovery process"). In turn, periodic excursions into an activated brain state-REM sleep-appear to be ideally placed to perform "selection" of brain networks, which have benefited from the process of "recovery," based on their offline performance. Such two-stage modus operandi of the sleep process would ensure that its functions are fulfilled according to the current need and in the shortest time possible. Our hypothesis accounts for the overall architecture of normal sleep and opens up new perspectives for understanding pathological conditions associated with abnormal sleep patterns.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alessio Delogu
- Department of Neuroscience, Institute of Psychiatry, King's College London, London, UK
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Krzysztof Palczewski
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Case
Western Reserve University, 2109 Adelbert Road, Cleveland, Ohio 44106-4965,
United States
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45
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Davies WI. Challenges using diagnostic next-generation sequencing in the clinical environment for inherited retinal disorders. Per Med 2014; 11:99-111. [PMID: 29751394 DOI: 10.2217/pme.13.95] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Visual impairment, and in particular the inherited retinopathies, is a significant problem worldwide. Many disorders are progressive so their early and accurate detection is crucial to the development and application of appropriate disease management and treatment strategies, some of which are currently being tested in clinical trials. Over the past few decades, the identification of genetic causes that mediate many inherited diseases has largely been based on traditional 'Sanger sequencing' and microchip approaches that are expensive and time consuming. However, with the advent of next-generation sequencing it is now possible to apply high-throughput technologies to the clinical arena and sequence the entire exome or genome of an affected individual. Despite the potential for a paradigm shift in the clinical diagnosis of retinal disease, it may prove difficult to interpret and confirm the pathogenicity of any variants discovered by next-generation sequencing pipelines. In this review, I examine the application of next-generation sequencing to inherited retinal disorders and discuss current limitations and future perspectives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wayne Il Davies
- School of Animal Biology & University of Western Australia Oceans Institute, University of Western Australia, 35 Stirling Highway, Perth, Western Australia, WA 6009, Australia.
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46
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Cassone VM. Avian circadian organization: a chorus of clocks. Front Neuroendocrinol 2014; 35:76-88. [PMID: 24157655 PMCID: PMC3946898 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2013.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2013] [Revised: 07/18/2013] [Accepted: 10/09/2013] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
In birds, biological clock function pervades all aspects of biology, controlling daily changes in sleep: wake, visual function, song, migratory patterns and orientation, as well as seasonal patterns of reproduction, song and migration. The molecular bases for circadian clocks are highly conserved, and it is likely the avian molecular mechanisms are similar to those expressed in mammals, including humans. The central pacemakers in the avian pineal gland, retinae and SCN dynamically interact to maintain stable phase relationships and then influence downstream rhythms through entrainment of peripheral oscillators in the brain controlling behavior and peripheral tissues. Birds represent an excellent model for the role played by biological clocks in human neurobiology; unlike most rodent models, they are diurnal, they exhibit cognitively complex social interactions, and their circadian clocks are more sensitive to the hormone melatonin than are those of nocturnal rodents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincent M Cassone
- Department of Biology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40506, United States.
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47
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Knott B, Davies WIL, Carvalho LS, Berg ML, Buchanan KL, Bowmaker JK, Bennett ATD, Hunt DM. How parrots see their colours: novelty in the visual pigments of Platycercus elegans. J Exp Biol 2013; 216:4454-61. [DOI: 10.1242/jeb.094136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
SUMMARY
Intraspecific differences in retinal physiology have been demonstrated in several vertebrate taxa and are often subject to adaptive evolution. Nonetheless, such differences are currently unknown in birds, despite variations in habitat, behaviour and visual stimuli that might influence spectral sensitivity. The parrot Platycercus elegans is a species complex with extreme plumage colour differences between (and sometimes within) subspecies, making it an ideal candidate for intraspecific differences in spectral sensitivity. Here, the visual pigments of P. elegans were fully characterised through molecular sequencing of five visual opsin genes and measurement of their absorbance spectra using microspectrophotometry. Three of the genes, LWS, SW1 and SWS2, encode for proteins similar to those found in other birds; however, both the RH1 and RH2 pigments had polypeptides with carboxyl termini of different lengths and unusual properties that are unknown previously for any vertebrate visual pigment. Specifically, multiple RH2 transcripts and protein variants (short, medium and long) were identified for the first time that are generated by alternative splicing of downstream coding and non-coding exons. Our work provides the first complete characterisation of the visual pigments of a parrot, perhaps the most colourful order of birds, and moreover suggests more variability in avian eyes than hitherto considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ben Knott
- Centre for Behavioural Biology, School of Biological Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol BS8 1UG, UK
- Centre for Integrative Ecology, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC 3217, Australia
| | - Wayne I. L. Davies
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London EC1V 9EL, UK
- School of Animal Biology and UWA Oceans Institute, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Livia S. Carvalho
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London EC1V 9EL, UK
| | - Mathew L. Berg
- Centre for Behavioural Biology, School of Biological Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol BS8 1UG, UK
- Centre for Integrative Ecology, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC 3217, Australia
| | - Katherine L. Buchanan
- Centre for Integrative Ecology, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC 3217, Australia
- Cardiff School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff CF10 3AX, UK
| | - James K. Bowmaker
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London EC1V 9EL, UK
| | - Andrew T. D. Bennett
- Centre for Behavioural Biology, School of Biological Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol BS8 1UG, UK
- Centre for Integrative Ecology, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC 3217, Australia
| | - David M. Hunt
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London EC1V 9EL, UK
- School of Animal Biology and UWA Oceans Institute, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6009, Australia
- Lions Eye Institute, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6009, Australia
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48
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Lagman D, Ocampo Daza D, Widmark J, Abalo XM, Sundström G, Larhammar D. The vertebrate ancestral repertoire of visual opsins, transducin alpha subunits and oxytocin/vasopressin receptors was established by duplication of their shared genomic region in the two rounds of early vertebrate genome duplications. BMC Evol Biol 2013; 13:238. [PMID: 24180662 PMCID: PMC3826523 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2148-13-238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2013] [Accepted: 10/29/2013] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vertebrate color vision is dependent on four major color opsin subtypes: RH2 (green opsin), SWS1 (ultraviolet opsin), SWS2 (blue opsin), and LWS (red opsin). Together with the dim-light receptor rhodopsin (RH1), these form the family of vertebrate visual opsins. Vertebrate genomes contain many multi-membered gene families that can largely be explained by the two rounds of whole genome duplication (WGD) in the vertebrate ancestor (2R) followed by a third round in the teleost ancestor (3R). Related chromosome regions resulting from WGD or block duplications are said to form a paralogon. We describe here a paralogon containing the genes for visual opsins, the G-protein alpha subunit families for transducin (GNAT) and adenylyl cyclase inhibition (GNAI), the oxytocin and vasopressin receptors (OT/VP-R), and the L-type voltage-gated calcium channels (CACNA1-L). RESULTS Sequence-based phylogenies and analyses of conserved synteny show that the above-mentioned gene families, and many neighboring gene families, expanded in the early vertebrate WGDs. This allows us to deduce the following evolutionary scenario: The vertebrate ancestor had a chromosome containing the genes for two visual opsins, one GNAT, one GNAI, two OT/VP-Rs and one CACNA1-L gene. This chromosome was quadrupled in 2R. Subsequent gene losses resulted in a set of five visual opsin genes, three GNAT and GNAI genes, six OT/VP-R genes and four CACNA1-L genes. These regions were duplicated again in 3R resulting in additional teleost genes for some of the families. Major chromosomal rearrangements have taken place in the teleost genomes. By comparison with the corresponding chromosomal regions in the spotted gar, which diverged prior to 3R, we could time these rearrangements to post-3R. CONCLUSIONS We present an extensive analysis of the paralogon housing the visual opsin, GNAT and GNAI, OT/VP-R, and CACNA1-L gene families. The combined data imply that the early vertebrate WGD events contributed to the evolution of vision and the other neuronal and neuroendocrine functions exerted by the proteins encoded by these gene families. In pouched lamprey all five visual opsin genes have previously been identified, suggesting that lampreys diverged from the jawed vertebrates after 2R.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Lagman
- Department of Neuroscience, Science for Life Laboratory, Uppsala University, Box 593, SE-75124 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Daniel Ocampo Daza
- Department of Neuroscience, Science for Life Laboratory, Uppsala University, Box 593, SE-75124 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Jenny Widmark
- Department of Neuroscience, Science for Life Laboratory, Uppsala University, Box 593, SE-75124 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Xesús M Abalo
- Department of Neuroscience, Science for Life Laboratory, Uppsala University, Box 593, SE-75124 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Görel Sundström
- Department of Neuroscience, Science for Life Laboratory, Uppsala University, Box 593, SE-75124 Uppsala, Sweden
- Present address: Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology, Science for Life Laboratory, Uppsala University, Box 582, SE-75123 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Dan Larhammar
- Department of Neuroscience, Science for Life Laboratory, Uppsala University, Box 593, SE-75124 Uppsala, Sweden
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Matynia A. Blurring the boundaries of vision: novel functions of intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells. J Exp Neurosci 2013; 7:43-50. [PMID: 25157207 PMCID: PMC4089729 DOI: 10.4137/jen.s11267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Mammalian vision consists of the classic image-forming pathway involving rod and cone photoreceptors interacting through a neural network within the retina before sending signals to the brain, and a non image-forming pathway that uses a photosensitive cell employing an alternative and evolutionary ancient phototransduction system and a direct connection to various centers in the brain. Intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs) contain the photopigment melanopsin, which is independently capable of photon detection while also receiving synaptic input from rod and cone photoreceptors via bipolar cells. These cells are the retinal sentry for subconscious visual processing that controls circadian photoentrainment and the pupillary light reflex. Classified as irradiance detectors, recent investigations have led to expanding roles for this specific cell type and its own neural pathways, some of which are blurring the boundaries between image-forming and non image-forming visual processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Matynia
- Department of Ophthalmology, Jules Stein Eye Institute, David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA. ; Brain Research Institute, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA
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50
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Evolution of phototransduction, vertebrate photoreceptors and retina. Prog Retin Eye Res 2013; 36:52-119. [DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2013.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 257] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2013] [Accepted: 06/02/2013] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
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