Bone morphogenetic protein-7 enhances dendritic growth and receptivity to innervation in cultured hippocampal neurons

Suppression of astrocyte BMP signaling improves fragile X syndrome molecular signatures and functional deficits

Fragile X syndrome (FXS) is a monogenic neurodevelopmental disorder with manifestations spanning molecular, neuroanatomical, and behavioral changes. Astrocytes contribute to FXS pathogenesis and show hundreds of dysregulated genes and proteins; targeting upstream pathways mediating astrocyte changes in FXS could therefore be a point of intervention. To address this, we focused on the bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) pathway, which is upregulated in FXS astrocytes. We generated a conditional KO (cKO) of Smad4 in astrocytes to suppress BMP signaling, and found this lessens audiogenic seizure severity in FXS mice. To ask how this occurs on a molecular level, we performed in vivo transcriptomic and proteomic profiling of cortical astrocytes, finding upregulation of metabolic pathways, and downregulation of secretory machinery and secreted proteins in FXS astrocytes, with these alterations no longer present when BMP signaling is suppressed. Functionally, astrocyte Smad4 cKO restores deficits in inhibitory synapses present in FXS auditory cortex. Thus, astrocytes contribute to FXS molecular and functional phenotypes, and targeting astrocytes can mitigate FXS symptoms.

Gamma secretase activity modulates BMP-7-induced dendritic growth in primary rat sympathetic neurons

Autonomic dysfunction has been observed in Alzheimer's disease (AD); however, the effects of genes involved in AD on the peripheral nervous system are not well understood. Previous studies have shown that presenilin-1 (PSEN1), the catalytic subunit of the gamma secretase (γ-secretase) complex, mutations in which are associated with familial AD function, regulates dendritic growth in hippocampal neurons. In this study, we examined whether the γ-secretase pathway also influences dendritic growth in primary sympathetic neurons. Using immunoblotting and immunocytochemistry, molecules of the γ-secretase complex, PSEN1, PSEN2, PEN2, nicastrin and APH1a, were detected in sympathetic neurons dissociated from embryonic (E20/21) rat sympathetic ganglia. Addition of bone morphogenetic protein-7 (BMP-7), which induces dendrites in these neurons, did not alter expression or localization of γ-secretase complex proteins. BMP-7-induced dendritic growth was inhibited by siRNA knockdown of PSEN1 and by three γ-secretase inhibitors, γ-secretase inhibitor IX (DAPT), LY-411575 and BMS-299897. These effects were specific to dendrites and concentration-dependent and did not alter early downstream pathways of BMP signaling. In summary, our results indicate that γ-secretase activity enhances BMP-7 induced dendritic growth in sympathetic neurons. These findings provide insight into the normal cellular role of the γ-secretase complex in sympathetic neurons.

Proteins secreted by brain arteriolar smooth muscle cells are instructive for neural development

Intercellular communication between vascular and nerve cells mediated by diffusible proteins has recently emerged as a critical intrinsic program for neural development. However, whether the vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) secretome regulates the connectivity of neural circuits remains unknown. Here, we show that conditioned medium from brain VSMC cultures enhances multiple neuronal functions, such as neuritogenesis, neuronal maturation, and survival, thereby improving circuit connectivity. However, protein denaturation by heating compromised these effects. Combined omics analyses of donor VSMC secretomes and recipient neuron transcriptomes revealed that overlapping pathways of extracellular matrix receptor signaling and adhesion molecule integrin binding mediate VSMC-dependent neuronal development. Furthermore, we found that human arterial VSMCs promote neuronal development in multiple ways, including expanding the time window for nascent neurite initiation, increasing neuronal density, and promoting synchronized firing, whereas human umbilical vein VSMCs lack this capability. These in vitro data indicate that brain arteriolar VSMCs may carry direct instructive information for neural development through intercellular communication in vivo.

The transforming growth factor beta ligand TIG-2 modulates the function of neuromuscular junction and muscle energy metabolism in Caenorhabditis elegans

Deciphering the physiological function of TGF-β (the transforming growth factor beta) family ligands is import for understanding the role of TGF-β in animals' development and aging. Here, we investigate the function of TIG-2, one of the ligands in Caenorhabditis elegans TGF-β family, in animals' behavioral modulation. Our results show that a loss-of-function mutation in tig-2 gene result in slower locomotion speed in the early adulthood and an increased density of cholinergic synapses, but a decreased neurotransmitter release at neuromuscular junctions (NMJs). Further tissue-specific rescue results reveal that neuronal and intestinal TIG-2 are essential for the formation of cholinergic synapses at NMJs. Interestingly, tig-2(ok3416) mutant is characterized with reduced muscle mitochondria content and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) production, although the function of muscle acetylcholine receptors and the morphology muscle fibers in the mutant are comparable to that in wild-type animals. Our result suggests that TIG-2 from different neuron and intestine regulates worm locomotion by modulating synaptogenesis and neurotransmission at NMJs, as well as energy metabolism in postsynaptic muscle cells.

LIM-Kinases in Synaptic Plasticity, Memory, and Brain Diseases

Learning and memory require structural and functional modifications of synaptic connections, and synaptic deficits are believed to underlie many brain disorders. The LIM-domain-containing protein kinases (LIMK1 and LIMK2) are key regulators of the actin cytoskeleton by affecting the actin-binding protein, cofilin. In addition, LIMK1 is implicated in the regulation of gene expression by interacting with the cAMP-response element-binding protein. Accumulating evidence indicates that LIMKs are critically involved in brain function and dysfunction. In this paper, we will review studies on the roles and underlying mechanisms of LIMKs in the regulation of long-term potentiation (LTP) and depression (LTD), the most extensively studied forms of long-lasting synaptic plasticity widely regarded as cellular mechanisms underlying learning and memory. We will also discuss the involvement of LIMKs in the regulation of the dendritic spine, the structural basis of synaptic plasticity, and memory formation. Finally, we will discuss recent progress on investigations of LIMKs in neurological and mental disorders, including Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, Williams–Beuren syndrome, schizophrenia, and autism spectrum disorders.

Overexpression of bone morphogenetic protein 7 reduces oligodendrocytes loss and promotes functional recovery after spinal cord injury

Spinal cord injury (SCI), as a severe disease with no effective therapeutic measures, has always been a hot topic for scientists. Bone morphogenetic protein 7 (BMP7), as a multifunctional cytokine, has been reported to exert protective effects on the nervous system. The present study aimed to investigate the neuroprotective effect and the potential mechanisms of BMP7 on rats that suffered SCI. Rat models of SCI were established by the modified Allen^'s method. Adeno‐associated virus (AAV) was injected at T9 immediately before SCI to overexpress BMP7. Results showed that the expression of BMP7 decreased in the injured spinal cords that were at the same time demyelinated. AAV‐BMP7 partly reversed oligodendrocyte (OL) loss, and it was beneficial to maintain the normal structure of myelin. The intervention group showed an increase in the number of axons and Basso‐Beattie‐Bresnahan scores. Moreover, double‐labelled immunofluorescence images indicated p‐Smad1/5/9 and p‐STAT3 in OLs induced by BMP7 might be involved in the protective effects of BMP7. These findings suggest that BMP7 may be a feasible therapy for SCI to reduce demyelination and promote functional recovery.

Interplay between BMPs and Reactive Oxygen Species in Cell Signaling and Pathology

The integration of cell extrinsic and intrinsic signals is required to maintain appropriate cell physiology and homeostasis. Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) are cytokines that belong to the transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) superfamily, which play a key role in embryogenesis, organogenesis and regulation of whole-body homeostasis. BMPs interact with membrane receptors that transduce information to the nucleus through SMAD-dependent and independent pathways, including PI3K-AKT and MAPKs. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are intracellular molecules derived from the partial reduction of oxygen. ROS are highly reactive and govern cellular processes by their capacity to regulate signaling pathways (e.g., NF-κB, MAPKs, KEAP1-NRF2 and PI3K-AKT). Emerging evidence indicates that BMPs and ROS interplay in a number of ways. BMPs stimulate ROS production by inducing NOX expression, while ROS regulate the expression of several BMPs. Moreover, BMPs and ROS influence common signaling pathways, including PI3K/AKT and MAPK. Additionally, dysregulation of BMPs and ROS occurs in several pathologies, including vascular and musculoskeletal diseases, obesity, diabetes and kidney injury. Here, we review the current knowledge on the integration between BMP and ROS signals and its potential applications in the development of new therapeutic strategies.

The Development of Neuronal Polarity: A Retrospective View

In 1988, Carlos Dotti, Chris Sullivan, and I published a paper on the establishment of polarity by hippocampal neurons in culture, which continues to be frequently cited 30 years later (Dotti et al., 1988). By following individual neurons from the time of plating until they had formed well developed axonal and dendritic arbors, we identified the five stages of development that lead to the mature expression of neuronal polarity. We were surprised to find that, before axon formation, the cells pass through a multipolar phase, in which several, apparently identical short neurites undergo periods of extension and retraction. Then one of these neurites begins a period of prolonged growth, becoming the definitive axon; the remaining neurites subsequently become dendrites. This observation suggested that any of the initial neurites were capable of becoming axons, a hypothesis confirmed by later work. In this Progressions article, I will try to recall the circumstances that led to this work, recapture some of the challenges we faced in conducting these experiments, and consider why some of today's neuroscientists still find this paper relevant.

Astrocyte-Secreted Chordin-like 1 Drives Synapse Maturation and Limits Plasticity by Increasing Synaptic GluA2 AMPA Receptors

In the developing brain, immature synapses contain calcium-permeable AMPA glutamate receptors (AMPARs) that are subsequently replaced with GluA2-containing calcium-impermeable AMPARs as synapses stabilize and mature. Here, we show that this essential switch in AMPARs and neuronal synapse maturation is regulated by astrocytes. Using biochemical fractionation of astrocyte-secreted proteins and mass spectrometry, we identified that astrocyte-secreted chordin-like 1 (Chrdl1) is necessary and sufficient to induce mature GluA2-containing synapses to form. This function of Chrdl1 is independent of its role as an antagonist of bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs). Chrdl1 expression is restricted to cortical astrocytes in vivo, peaking at the time of the AMPAR switch. Chrdl1 knockout (KO) mice display reduced synaptic GluA2 AMPARs, altered kinetics of synaptic events, and enhanced remodeling in an in vivo plasticity assay. Studies have shown that humans with mutations in Chrdl1 display enhanced learning. Thus astrocytes, via the release of Chrdl1, promote GluA2-dependent synapse maturation and thereby limit synaptic plasticity.

The evolving role of neuro-immune interaction in brain repair after cerebral ischemic stroke

Stroke is the world's leading cause of disability with limited brain repair treatments which effectively improve long-term neurological deficits. The neuroinflammatory responses persist into the late repair phase of stroke and participate in all brain repair elements, including neurogenesis, angiogenesis, synaptogenesis, remyelination and axonal sprouting, shedding new light on post-stroke brain recovery. Resident brain glial cells, such as astrocytes not only contribute to neuroinflammation after stroke, but also secrete a wide range of trophic factors that can promote post-stroke brain repair. Alternatively, activated microglia, monocytes, and neutrophils in the innate immune system, traditionally considered as major damaging factors after stroke, have been suggested to be extensively involved in brain repair after stroke. The adaptive immune system may also have its bright side during the late regenerative phase, affecting the immune suppressive regulatory T cells and B cells. This review summarizes the recent findings in the evolving role of neuroinflammation in multiple post-stroke brain repair mechanisms and poses unanswered questions that may generate new directions for future research and give rise to novel therapeutic targets to improve stroke recovery.

Wnt7b through Frizzled-7 receptor promotes dendrite development by coactivation of CaMKII and JNK

The formation of complex dendritic arbors is crucial for the assembly of functional networks as abnormal dendrite formation underlies several neurodevelopmental and psychiatric disorders. Many extracellular factors have been postulated as regulators of dendritic growth. Wnt proteins play a critical role in neuronal development and circuit formation. We previously demonstrated that Wnt7b acts through the scaffold protein Dishevelled (Dvl) to modulate dendrite arborization by activating a Wnt non-canonical signalling pathway. Here, we identify the seven-transmembrane Frizzled-7 (Fz7) as the receptor for Wnt7b-mediated dendrite growth and complexity. Importantly, Fz7 is developmentally regulated in the intact hippocampus localised along neurites and at dendritic growth cones, suggesting a role in dendrite formation and maturation. Fz7 loss of function studies demonstrated that Wnt7b requires Fz7 to promote dendritic arborisation. Moreover, in vivo Fz7 loss of function results in dendritic defects in the intact mouse hippocampus. Furthermore, our findings revealed that Wnt7b and Fz7 induce the phosphorylation of CaMKII and JNK, which are required for dendritic development. Here we demonstrate that Wnt7b-Fz7 signals through two Wnt non-canonical pathways to modulate dendritic growth and complexity.

TGF-β Family Signaling in Neural and Neuronal Differentiation, Development, and Function

Signaling by the transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) family is necessary for proper neural development and function throughout life. Sequential waves of activation, inhibition, and reactivation of TGF-β family members regulate numerous elements of the nervous system from the earliest stages of embryogenesis through adulthood. This review discusses the expression, regulation, and function of TGF-β family members in the central nervous system at various developmental stages, beginning with induction and patterning of the nervous system to their importance in the adult as modulators of inflammatory response and involvement in degenerative diseases.

Interactions with Astroglia Influence the Shape of the Developing Dendritic Arbor and Restrict Dendrite Growth Independent of Promoting Synaptic Contacts

Astroglia play key roles in the development of neurons, ranging from regulating neuron survival to promoting synapse formation, yet basic questions remain about whether astrocytes might be involved in forming the dendritic arbor. Here, we used cultured hippocampal neurons as a simple in vitro model that allowed dendritic growth and geometry to be analyzed quantitatively under conditions where the extent of interactions between neurons and astrocytes varied. When astroglia were proximal to neurons, dendrites and dendritic filopodia oriented toward them, but the general presence of astroglia significantly reduced overall dendrite growth. Further, dendritic arbors in partial physical contact with astroglia developed a pronounced pattern of asymmetrical growth, because the dendrites in direct contact were significantly smaller than the portion of the arbor not in contact. Notably, thrombospondin, the astroglial factor shown previously to promote synapse formation, did not inhibit dendritic growth. Thus, while astroglia promoted the formation of presynaptic contacts onto dendrites, dendritic growth was constrained locally within a developing arbor at sites where dendrites contacted astroglia. Taken together, these observations reveal influences on spatial orientation of growth as well as influences on morphogenesis of the dendritic arbor that have not been previously identified.

Chordin and noggin expression in the adult rat trigeminal nuclei

Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMP) exert its biological functions by interacting with membrane bound receptors. However, functions of BMPs are also regulated in the extracellular space by secreted antagonistic regulators, such as chordin and noggin. Although the deep involvement of BMP signaling in the development and functions of the trigeminal nuclei has been postulated, little information is available for its expression in the trigeminal nuclei. We, thus, investigated chordin and noggin expression in the adult rat trigeminal nuclei using immunohistochemistry. Chordin and noggin were intensely expressed throughout the trigeminal nuclei. In addition, interesting differences are observed between chordin expression and noggin expression. For example, chordin prefers dendritic expression than noggin, suggesting that chordin is involved in the regulation of dendritic morphology and synaptic homeostasis. Furthermore, chordin and noggin were differentially expressed in the neuropil of the trigeminal nuclei. Since BMP signaling is known to play a pivotal role to make precise neural network, theses differences might be important to keep precise interneuronal connections by regulating local BMP signaling intensity in each region. Interestingly, we also detected chordin and noggin expression in axons of the trigeminal nerves. These data indicate that chordin and noggin play pivotal roles also in the adult trigeminal system.

The 3 Rs of Stroke Biology: Radial, Relayed, and Regenerative

Stroke not only causes initial cell death, but also a limited process of repair and recovery. As an overall biological process, stroke has been most often considered from the perspective of early phases of ischemia, how these inter-relate and lead to expansion of the infarct. However, just as the biology of later stages of stroke becomes better understood, the clinical realities of stroke indicate that it is now more a chronic disease than an acute killer. As an overall biological process, it is now more important to understand how early cell death leads to the later, limited recovery so as develop an integrative view of acute to chronic stroke. This progression from death to repair involves sequential stages of primary cell death, secondary injury events, reactive tissue progenitor responses, and formation of new neuronal circuits. This progression is radial: from the tissue that suffers the infarct secondary injury signals, including free radicals and inflammatory cytokines, radiate out from the stroke core to trigger later regenerative events. Injury and repair processes occur not just in the local stroke site, but are also triggered in the connected networks of neurons that had existed in the stroke center: damage signals are relayed throughout a brain network. From these relayed, distributed damage signals, reactive astrocytosis, inflammatory processes, and the formation of new connections occur in distant brain areas. In short, emerging data in stroke cell death studies and the development of the field of stroke neural repair now indicate a continuum in time and in space of progressive events that can be considered as the 3 Rs of stroke biology: radial, relayed, and regenerative.

Molecular, cellular and functional events in axonal sprouting after stroke

Stroke is the leading cause of adult disability. Yet there is a limited degree of recovery in this disease. One of the mechanisms of recovery is the formation of new connections in the brain and spinal cord after stroke: post-stroke axonal sprouting. Studies indicate that post-stroke axonal sprouting occurs in mice, rats, primates and humans. Inducing post-stroke axonal sprouting in specific connections enhances recovery; blocking axonal sprouting impairs recovery. Behavioral activity patterns after stroke modify the axonal sprouting response. A unique regenerative molecular program mediates this aspect of tissue repair in the CNS. The types of connections that are formed after stroke indicate three patterns of axonal sprouting after stroke: reactive, reparative and unbounded axonal sprouting. These differ in mechanism, location, relationship to behavioral recovery and, importantly, in their prospect for therapeutic manipulation to enhance tissue repair.

Roles of LIM kinases in central nervous system function and dysfunction

LIM kinase 1 (LIMK1) and LIM kinase 2 (LIMK2) regulate actin dynamics by phosphorylating cofilin. In this review, we outline studies that have shown an involvement of LIMKs in neuronal function and we detail some of the pathways and molecular mechanisms involving LIMKs in neurodevelopment and synaptic plasticity. We also review the involvement of LIMKs in neuronal diseases and emphasize the differences in the regulation of LIMKs expression and mode of action. We finally present the existence of a cofilin-independent pathway also involved in neuronal function. A better understanding of the differences between both LIMKs and of the precise molecular mechanisms involved in their mode of action and regulation is now required to improve our understanding of the physiopathology of the neuronal diseases associated with LIMKs.

Reactive oxygen species are involved in BMP-induced dendritic growth in cultured rat sympathetic neurons

Previous studies have shown that bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) promote dendritic growth in sympathetic neurons; however, the downstream signaling molecules that mediate the dendrite promoting activity of BMPs are not well characterized. Here we test the hypothesis that reactive oxygen species (ROS)-mediated signaling links BMP receptor activation to dendritic growth. In cultured rat sympathetic neurons, exposure to any of the three mechanistically distinct antioxidants, diphenylene iodinium (DPI), nordihydroguaiaretic acid (NGA) or desferroxamine (DFO), blocked de novo BMP-induced dendritic growth. Addition of DPI to cultures previously induced with BMP to extend dendrites caused dendritic retraction while DFO and NGA prevented further growth of dendrites. The inhibition of the dendrite promoting activity of BMPs by antioxidants was concentration-dependent and occurred without altering axonal growth or neuronal cell survival. Antioxidant treatment did not block BMP activation of SMAD 1,5 as determined by nuclear localization of these SMADs. While BMP treatment did not cause a detectable increase in intracellular ROS in cultured sympathetic neurons as assessed using fluorescent indicator dyes, BMP treatment increased the oxygen consumption rate in cultured sympathetic neurons as determined using the Seahorse XF24 Analyzer, suggesting increased mitochondrial activity. In addition, BMPs upregulated expression of NADPH oxidase 2 (NOX2) and either pharmacological inhibition or siRNA knockdown of NOX2 significantly decreased BMP-7 induced dendritic growth. Collectively, these data support the hypothesis that ROS are involved in the downstream signaling events that mediate BMP7-induced dendritic growth in sympathetic neurons, and suggest that ROS-mediated signaling positively modulates dendritic complexity in peripheral neurons.

Common and rare variants of the THBS1 gene associated with the risk for autism

OBJECTIVES

Autism is a severe neurodevelopmental disorder. Many susceptible or causative genes have been identified, and most of them are related to synaptogenesis. The THBS1 gene encodes thrombospondin 1, which plays a critical role in synaptogenesis of the central nervous system in the developing brain. However, no study has been carried out revealing that THBS1 is an autism risk gene.

METHODS

We analyzed the whole coding region and the 5'-untranslated region of the THBS1 gene in 313 autistic patients by Sanger sequencing, which was also used to analyze the identified variants in 350 normal controls. Association analysis was carried out using PLINK or R. Haplotype analysis was carried out using Haploview. Functional prediction and conservation analysis of missense variants were carried out using ANNOVAR.

RESULTS

Twelve variants, including five common variants and seven rare variants, were identified in the THBS1 coding region and the 5'-untranslated region. Among them, one common variant (c.1567A>G:p.T523A) was significantly associated with autism (P<0.05). Two rare variants (c.2429G>A:p.R810Q, c.3496G>C:p.E1166Q) were absent in the 350 controls and were not reported in the single nucleotide polymorphism database (dbSNP). Combined association analysis of the rare variants (minor allele frequency<0.01) in patients and Asian samples in the 1000 genome project revealed a significant association between these rare variants and autism (P=0.039).

CONCLUSION

Our data revealed that both common and rare variants of the THBS1 gene are associated with risk for autism, suggesting that THBS1 is a novel susceptible gene for autism.

BMP5 expression in the adult rat brain

Bone morphogenetic protein-5 (BMP5), a member of the transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) superfamily, has many effects in several biological events. Although BMP5 expression has been well reported in the early development of the central nervous system (CNS), there is little information about its expression in the adult CNS. Thus, we analyzed BMP5 expression in the adult rat CNS by immunohistochemistry. Abundant BMP5 expression was observed in most neurons, and their dendrites and axons. Furthermore, strong BMP5 expression was also detected in the neuropil of the gray matters with high plasticity, such as the molecular layer of the cerebellum, locus coeruleus, and nucleus of the solitary tract. In addition, we showed BMP5 expression also in astrocytes, ependymal cells and meninges. Our data suggest that BMP5 is widely expressed throughout the adult CNS, and this abundant expression in the adult brain strongly supports the idea that BMP5 plays important roles not only in the developing brain but also in the adult brain.

Regulatory mechanisms underlying the differential growth of dendrites and axons

A typical neuron is comprised of an information input compartment, or the dendrites, and an output compartment, known as the axon. These two compartments are the structural basis for functional neural circuits. However, little is known about how dendritic and axonal growth are differentially regulated. Recent studies have uncovered two distinct types of regulatory mechanisms that differentiate dendritic and axonal growth: dedicated mechanisms and bimodal mechanisms. Dedicated mechanisms regulate either dendritespecific or axon-specific growth; in contrast, bimodal mechanisms direct dendritic and axonal development in opposite manners. Here, we review the dedicated and bimodal regulators identified by recent Drosophila and mammalian studies. The knowledge of these underlying molecular mechanisms not only expands our understanding about how neural circuits are wired, but also provides insights that will aid in the rational design of therapies for neurological diseases.

Dendrite complexity of sympathetic neurons is controlled during postnatal development by BMP signaling

Dendrite development is controlled by the interplay of intrinsic and extrinsic signals affecting initiation, growth, and maintenance of complex dendrites. Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) stimulate dendrite growth in cultures of sympathetic, cortical, and hippocampal neurons but it was unclear whether BMPs control dendrite morphology in vivo. Using a conditional knock-out strategy to eliminate Bmpr1a and Smad4 in immature noradrenergic sympathetic neurons we now show that dendrite length, complexity, and neuron cell body size are reduced in adult mice deficient of Bmpr1a. The combined deletion of Bmpr1a and Bmpr1b causes no further decrease in dendritic features. Sympathetic neurons devoid of Bmpr1a/1b display normal Smad1/5/8 phosphorylation, which suggests that Smad-independent signaling paths are involved in dendritic growth control downstream of BMPR1A/B. Indeed, in the Smad4 conditional knock-out dendrite and cell body size are not affected and dendrite complexity and number are increased. Together, these results demonstrate an in vivo function for BMPs in the generation of mature sympathetic neuron dendrites. BMPR1 signaling controls dendrite complexity postnatally during the major dendritic growth period of sympathetic neurons.

Chordin expression in the adult rat brain

Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) exert its biological functions by interacting with membrane bound receptors. However, functions of BMPs are also regulated in the extracellular space by secreted antagonistic regulators. Chordin is an extracellular BMP antagonist that binds BMP-2, 4, and 7 with high affinity and thus interferes with binding to BMP receptors. Although chordin expression has been well described in the early development of the CNS, little information is available for its expression in the adult CNS. We, thus, investigated chordin expression in the adult rat CNS using immunohistochemistry. Chordin was intensely expressed in most neurons, and their dendrites and axons. In addition, abundant chordin expression was also observed in the neuropil of the gray matters where high plasticity is reported, such as the molecular layer of the cerebellum and the superficial layer of the superior colliculus. Furthermore, we found that astrocytes and ependymal cells also express chordin protein. These data indicate that chordin is more widely expressed throughout the adult CNS than previously reported, and its continued abundant expression in the adult brain strongly supports the idea that chordin plays pivotal roles also in the adult brain.

Growth differentiation factor 5 is a key physiological regulator of dendrite growth during development

Dendrite size and morphology are key determinants of the functional properties of neurons. Here, we show that growth differentiation factor 5 (GDF5), a member of the bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) subclass of the transforming growth factor β superfamily with a well-characterised role in limb morphogenesis, is a key regulator of the growth and elaboration of pyramidal cell dendrites in the developing hippocampus. Pyramidal cells co-express GDF5 and its preferred receptors, BMP receptor 1B and BMP receptor 2, during development. In culture, GDF5 substantially increased dendrite, but not axon, elongation from these neurons by a mechanism that depends on activation of SMADs 1/5/8 and upregulation of the transcription factor HES5. In vivo, the apical and basal dendritic arbours of pyramidal cells throughout the hippocampus were markedly stunted in both homozygous and heterozygous Gdf5 null mutants, indicating that dendrite size and complexity are exquisitely sensitive to the level of endogenous GDF5 synthesis.

Growth factors in synaptic function

Synapses are increasingly recognized as key structures that malfunction in disorders like schizophrenia, mental retardation, and neurodegenerative diseases. The importance and complexity of the synapse has fuelled research into the molecular mechanisms underlying synaptogenesis, synaptic transmission, and plasticity. In this regard, neurotrophic factors such as netrin, Wnt, transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and others have gained prominence for their ability to regulate synaptic function. Several of these factors were first implicated in neuroprotection, neuronal growth, and axon guidance. However, their roles in synaptic development and function have become increasingly clear, and the downstream signaling pathways employed by these factors have begun to be elucidated. In this review, we will address the role of these factors and their downstream effectors in synaptic function in vivo and in cultured neurons.

Growth factor signaling and memory formation: temporal and spatial integration of a molecular network

Growth factor (GF) signaling is critically important for developmental plasticity. It also plays a crucial role in adult plasticity, such as that required for memory formation. Although different GFs interact with receptors containing distinct types of kinase domains, they typically signal through converging intracellular cascades (e.g., Ras–MEK–MAPK) to mediate overlapping functional endpoints. Several GFs have been implicated in memory formation, but due to a high level of convergent signaling, the unique contributions of individual GFs as well as the interactions between GF signaling cascades during the induction of memory is not well known. In this review, we highlight the unique roles of specific GFs in dendritic plasticity, and discuss the spatial and temporal profiles of different GFs during memory formation. Collectively, the data suggest that the roles of GF signaling in long-lasting behavioral and structural plasticity may be best viewed as interactive components in a complex molecular network.

Epsin 1 Promotes Synaptic Growth by Enhancing BMP Signal Levels in Motoneuron Nuclei

Bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) retrograde signaling is crucial for neuronal development and synaptic plasticity. However, how the BMP effector phospho-Mother against decapentaplegic (pMad) is processed following receptor activation remains poorly understood. Here we show that Drosophila Epsin1/Liquid facets (Lqf) positively regulates synaptic growth through post-endocytotic processing of pMad signaling complex. Lqf and the BMP receptor Wishful thinking (Wit) interact genetically and biochemically. lqf loss of function (LOF) reduces bouton number whereas overexpression of lqf stimulates bouton growth. Lqf-stimulated synaptic overgrowth is suppressed by genetic reduction of wit. Further, synaptic pMad fails to accumulate inside the motoneuron nuclei in lqf mutants and lqf suppresses synaptic overgrowth in spinster (spin) mutants with enhanced BMP signaling by reducing accumulation of nuclear pMad. Interestingly, lqf mutations reduce nuclear pMad levels without causing an apparent blockage of axonal transport itself. Finally, overexpression of Lqf significantly increases the number of multivesicular bodies (MVBs) in the synapse whereas lqf LOF reduces MVB formation, indicating that Lqf may function in signaling endosome recycling or maturation. Based on these observations, we propose that Lqf plays a novel endosomal role to ensure efficient retrograde transport of BMP signaling endosomes into motoneuron nuclei.

Rit subfamily small GTPases: regulators in neuronal differentiation and survival

Ras family small GTPases serve as binary molecular switches to regulate a broad array of cellular signaling cascades, playing essential roles in a vast range of normal physiological processes, with dysregulation of numerous Ras-superfamily G-protein-dependent regulatory cascades underlying the development of human disease. However, the physiological function for many "orphan" Ras-related GTPases remain poorly characterized, including members of the Rit subfamily GTPases. Rit is the founding member of a novel branch of the Ras subfamily, sharing close homology with the neuronally expressed Rin and Drosophila Ric GTPases. Here, we highlight recent studies using transgenic and knockout animal models which have begun to elucidate the physiological roles for the Rit subfamily, including emerging roles in the regulation of neuronal morphology and cellular survival signaling, and discuss new genetic data implicating Rit and Rin signaling in disorders such as cancer, Parkinson's disease, autism, and schizophrenia.

BMP signaling in telencephalic neural cell specification and maturation

Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) make up a family of morphogens that are critical for patterning, development, and function of the central and peripheral nervous system. Their effects on neural cells are pleiotropic and highly dynamic depending on the stage of development and the local niche. Neural cells display a broad expression profile of BMP ligands, receptors, and transducer molecules. Moreover, interactions of BMP signaling with other incoming morphogens and signaling pathways are crucial for most of these processes. The key role of BMP signaling suggests that it includes many regulatory mechanisms that restrict BMP activity both temporally and spatially. BMPs affect neural cell fate specification in a dynamic fashion. Initially they inhibit proliferation of neural precursors and promote the first steps in neuronal differentiation. Later on, BMP signaling effects switch from neuronal induction to promotion of astroglial identity and inhibition of neuronal or oligodendroglial lineage commitment. Furthermore, in postmitotic cells, BMPs regulate cell survival and death, to modulate neuronal subtype specification, promote dendritic and axonal growth and induce synapse formation and stabilization. In this review, we examine the canonical and non-canonical mechanisms of BMP signal transduction. Moreover, we focus on the specific role of BMPs in the nervous system including their ability to regulate neural stem cell proliferation, self-renewal, lineage specification, and neuronal function.

Bimodal control of dendritic and axonal growth by the dual leucine zipper kinase pathway

Knowledge of the molecular and genetic mechanisms underlying the separation of dendritic and axonal compartments is not only crucial for understanding the assembly of neural circuits, but also for developing strategies to correct defective dendrites or axons in diseases with subcellular precision. Previous studies have uncovered regulators dedicated to either dendritic or axonal growth. Here we investigate a novel regulatory mechanism that differentially directs dendritic and axonal growth within the same neuron in vivo. We find that the dual leucine zipper kinase (DLK) signaling pathway in Drosophila, which consists of Highwire and Wallenda and controls axonal growth, regeneration, and degeneration, is also involved in dendritic growth in vivo. Highwire, an evolutionarily conserved E3 ubiquitin ligase, restrains axonal growth but acts as a positive regulator for dendritic growth in class IV dendritic arborization neurons in the larva. While both the axonal and dendritic functions of highwire require the DLK kinase Wallenda, these two functions diverge through two downstream transcription factors, Fos and Knot, which mediate the axonal and dendritic regulation, respectively. This study not only reveals a previously unknown function of the conserved DLK pathway in controlling dendrite development, but also provides a novel paradigm for understanding how neuronal compartmentalization and the diversity of neuronal morphology are achieved.

Spartin regulates synaptic growth and neuronal survival by inhibiting BMP-mediated microtubule stabilization

Troyer syndrome is a hereditary spastic paraplegia caused by human spartin (SPG20) gene mutations. We have generated a Drosophila disease model showing that Spartin functions presynaptically with endocytic adaptor Eps15 to regulate synaptic growth and function. Spartin inhibits bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) signaling by promoting endocytic degradation of BMP receptor wishful thinking (Wit). Drosophila fragile X mental retardation protein (dFMRP) and Futsch/MAP1B are downstream effectors of Spartin and BMP signaling in regulating microtubule stability and synaptic growth. Loss of Spartin or elevation of BMP signaling induces age-dependent progressive defects resembling hereditary spastic paraplegias, including motor dysfunction and brain neurodegeneration. Null spartin phenotypes are prevented by administration of the microtubule-destabilizing drug vinblastine. Together, these results demonstrate that Spartin regulates both synaptic development and neuronal survival by controlling microtubule stability via the BMP-dFMRP-Futsch pathway, suggesting that impaired regulation of microtubule stability is a core pathogenic component in Troyer syndrome.

The dynamic role of bone morphogenetic proteins in neural stem cell fate and maturation

The bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) are a group of powerful morphogens that are critical for development of the nervous system. The effects of BMP signaling on neural stem cells are myriad and dynamic, changing with each stage of development. During early development inhibition of BMP signaling differentiates neuroectoderm from ectoderm, and BMP signaling helps to specify neural crest. Thus modulation of BMP signaling underlies formation of both the central and peripheral nervous systems. BMPs secreted from dorsal structures then form a gradient which helps pattern the dorsal-ventral axis of the developing spinal cord and brain. During forebrain development BMPs sequentially induce neurogenesis and then astrogliogenesis and participate in neurite outgrowth from immature neurons. BMP signaling also plays a critical role in maintaining adult neural stem cell niches in the subventricular zone (SVZ) and subgranular zone (SGZ). BMPs are able to exert such diverse effects through closely regulated temporospatial expression and interaction with other signaling pathways.

Gene expression changes of interconnected spared cortical neurons 7 days after ischemic infarct of the primary motor cortex in the rat

After cortical injury resulting from stroke, some recovery can occur and may involve spared areas of the cerebral cortex reorganizing to assume functions previously controlled by the damaged cortical areas. No studies have specifically assessed gene expression changes in remote neurons with axonal processes that terminate in the infarcted tissue, i.e., the subset of neurons most likely to be involved in regenerative processes. By physiologically identifying the primary motor area controlling forelimb function in adult rats (caudal forelimb area = CFA), and injecting a retrograde tract-tracer, we labeled neurons within the non-primary motor cortex (rostral forelimb area = RFA) that project to CFA. Then, 7 days after a CFA infarct (n = 6), we used laser capture microdissection techniques to harvest labeled neurons in RFA. Healthy, uninjured rats served as controls (n = 6). Biological interactions and functions of gene profiling were investigated by Affymetrix Microarray, and Ingenuity Pathway Analysis. A total of 143 up- and 128 down-regulated genes showed significant changes (fold change ≥1.3 and p < 0.05). The canonical pathway, "Axonal Guidance Signaling," was overrepresented (p value = 0.002). Significantly overrepresented functions included: branching of neurites, organization of cytoskeleton, dendritic growth and branching, organization of cytoplasm, guidance of neurites, development of cellular protrusions, density of dendritic spines, and shape change (p = 0.000151-0.0487). As previous studies have shown that spared motor areas are important in recovery following injury to the primary motor area, the results suggest that these gene expression changes in remote, interconnected neurons may underlie reorganization and recovery mechanisms.

Different temporal patterns in the expressions of bone morphogenetic proteins and noggin during astroglial scar formation after ischemic stroke

Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) and their antagonists have roles in scar formation and regeneration after central nervous system injuries. However, temporal changes in their expression during astroglial scar formation in the ischemic brain are unknown. Here, we examined protein levels of BMP2, BMP7, and their antagonist noggin in the ischemic brain up to 4 weeks after experimental stroke in mice. BMP2 and BMP7 levels were increased from 1 to 4 weeks in the ischemic brain, and their expression was associated with astrogliosis. BMP7 expression was more intense and co-localized in reactive astrocytes in the ischemic subcortex at 1 week. Noggin expression began to increase after 2 weeks and was further increased at 4 weeks only in the ischemic subcortex, but the intensity was weak compared to the intensity of BMPs. Noggin was co-localized mainly in activated microglia. These findings show that expression of BMPs and noggin differed over time, in intensity and in types of cell, and suggest that BMPs and noggin have different roles in the processes of glial scar formation and neurorestoration in the ischemic brain.

Synapses on demand require dendrites at the ready: how defining stages of dendritic development in vitro could inform studies of behaviorally driven information storage in the brain

Bill Greenough's work provides a framework for thinking about synaptogenesis not only as a key step in the initial wiring of neural systems according to a species typical plan (i.e., experience-expectant development), but also as a mechanism for storing information based an individual's unique experience over its lifetime (i.e., experience-dependent plasticity). Analysis of synaptic development in vitro brings a new opportunity to test the limits of expectant-expectant development at the level of the individual neuron. We analyzed dendritic growth, synapse formation, and the development of specialized cytoplasmic microdomains during development in cultured hippocampal neurons, to determine if the timing of each of these events is correlated. Taken together, the findings reported here support the hypotheses that (1) dendritic development is rate limiting in synapse formation and (2) synaptic circuits are assembled in a step-wise fashion consistent with a stage-specific shift from genomically pre-programmed to activity-dependent mechanisms.

More than being protective: functional roles for TGF-β/activin signaling pathways at central synapses

It is becoming increasingly clear that members of the transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) family have roles in the central nervous system that extend beyond their well-established roles as neurotrophic and neuroprotective factors. Recent findings have indicated that the TGF-β signaling pathways are involved in the modulation of both excitatory and inhibitory synaptic transmission in the adult mammalian brain. In this review, we discuss how TGF-β, bone morphogenetic protein and activin signaling at central synapses modulate synaptic plasticity, cognition and affective behavior. We also discuss the implications of these findings for the molecular understanding and potential treatment of neuropsychiatric diseases, such as anxiety, depression and other neurological disorders.

Transcriptional responses of cultured rat sympathetic neurons during BMP-7-induced dendritic growth

BACKGROUND

Dendrites are the primary site of synapse formation in the vertebrate nervous system; however, relatively little is known about the molecular mechanisms that regulate the initial formation of primary dendrites. Embryonic rat sympathetic neurons cultured under defined conditions extend a single functional axon, but fail to form dendrites. Addition of bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) triggers these neurons to extend multiple dendrites without altering axonal growth or cell survival. We used this culture system to examine differential gene expression patterns in naïve vs. BMP-treated sympathetic neurons in order to identify candidate genes involved in regulation of primary dendritogenesis.

METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS

To determine the critical transcriptional window during BMP-induced dendritic growth, morphometric analysis of microtubule-associated protein (MAP-2)-immunopositive processes was used to quantify dendritic growth in cultures exposed to the transcription inhibitor actinomycin-D added at varying times after addition of BMP-7. BMP-7-induced dendritic growth was blocked when transcription was inhibited within the first 24 hr after adding exogenous BMP-7. Thus, total RNA was isolated from sympathetic neurons exposed to three different experimental conditions: (1) no BMP-7 treatment; (2) treatment with BMP-7 for 6 hr; and (3) treatment with BMP-7 for 24 hr. Affymetrix oligonucleotide microarrays were used to identify differential gene expression under these three culture conditions. BMP-7 significantly regulated 56 unique genes at 6 hr and 185 unique genes at 24 hr. Bioinformatic analyses implicate both established and novel genes and signaling pathways in primary dendritogenesis.

CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE

This study provides a unique dataset that will be useful in generating testable hypotheses regarding transcriptional control of the initial stages of dendritic growth. Since BMPs selectively promote dendritic growth in central neurons as well, these findings may be generally applicable to dendritic growth in other neuronal cell types.

Protective effects of bone morphogenetic protein 7 against amyloid-beta induced neurotoxicity in PC12 cells

Bone morphogenetic protein 7 (BMP7) has neuroprotective effects against ischemia, oxidation stress, and lipopolysaccharide, but its role on amyloid-beta (Aβ)-induced neurotoxicity in Alzheimer's disease (AD) and the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. In this study, we exposed PC12 cells to Aβ25-35 for 26 h to induce neurotoxicity, and added exogenous BMP7 at 2 h to observe the neuroprotective effects. The protective mechanisms involved, mostly related to inhibition of cell apoptosis and oxidation stress, were analyzed. In rat in vivo experiments, we bilaterally injected Aβ1-40 into the basal forebrain to simulate neuropathological processes in AD, performed the Morris water maze test to evaluate the effect of Aβ on spatial learning and memory, and explored the change of endogenous BMP7 expression in the brain. The present study demonstrated that BMP7 prevented neuronal injuries in PC12 cells induced by Aβ25-35, including cell apoptosis and morphological impairment of dendrites as well as oxidation stress. BMP7 treatment significantly protected PC12 cells against Aβ25-35-induced injury and inhibited the increasing content of the Bax gene and the decreasing activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD). Aβ1-40 bilaterally injected into the rat basal forebrain obviously inhibited the rat's spatial learning ability and memory, and significantly induced downregulation of endogenous BMP7 in the basal forebrain while upregulating it in the hippocampus. Our results suggest that BMP7 has neuroprotective effects against Aβ, which may be mediated through inhibition of Bax gene expression during cell apoptosis and elevation of SOD activities during the oxidative stress response. On the other hand, endogenous BMP7 may have a potential self-modulation capacity through negative feedback between the region of the basal forebrain and the hippocampus as a protective cytokine.

Development of axon-target specificity of ponto-cerebellar afferents

The function of neuronal networks relies on selective assembly of synaptic connections during development. We examined how synaptic specificity emerges in the pontocerebellar projection. Analysis of axon-target interactions with correlated light-electron microscopy revealed that developing pontine mossy fibers elaborate extensive cell-cell contacts and synaptic connections with Purkinje cells, an inappropriate target. Subsequently, mossy fiber-Purkinje cell connections are eliminated resulting in granule cell-specific mossy fiber connectivity as observed in mature cerebellar circuits. Formation of mossy fiber-Purkinje cell contacts is negatively regulated by Purkinje cell-derived BMP4. BMP4 limits mossy fiber growth in vitro and Purkinje cell-specific ablation of BMP4 in mice results in exuberant mossy fiber-Purkinje cell interactions. These findings demonstrate that synaptic specificity in the pontocerebellar projection is achieved through a stepwise mechanism that entails transient innervation of Purkinje cells, followed by synapse elimination. Moreover, this work establishes BMP4 as a retrograde signal that regulates the axon-target interactions during development.

Stage-specific modulation of cortical neuronal development by Mmu-miR-134

To realize the potential of microRNAs (miRs) as fine-tuning regulators of embryonic neuronal differentiation, it is critical to define their developmental function. Mmu-miR-134 (miR-134) is a powerful inducer of pluripotent stem cell differentiation. However, its functional role during embryonic, neuronal development is unknown. We demonstrate that mature, miR-134 transcript levels elevate during embryonic, neuronal differentiation in vitro and in vivo. To define the developmental targets and function of miR-134, we identified multiple brain-expressed targets including the neural progenitor cell-enriched, bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) antagonist Chordin-like 1 (Chrdl-1) and the postmitotic, neuron-specific, microtubule-associated protein, Doublecortin (Dcx). We show that, through interaction with Dcx and/or Chrdl-1, miR-134 has stage-specific effects on cortical progenitors, migratory neurons, and differentiated neurons. In neural progenitors, miR-134 promotes cell proliferation and counteracts Chrdl-1-induced apoptosis and Dcx-induced differentiation in vitro. In neurons, miR-134 reduces cell migration in vitro and in vivo in a Dcx-dependent manner. In differentiating neurons, miR-134 modulates process outgrowth in response to exogenous BMP-4 in a noggin-reversible manner. Taken together, we present Dcx and Chrdl-1 as new regulatory targets of miR-134 during embryonic, mouse, cortical, and neuronal differentiation and show a novel and previously undiscovered role for miR-134 in the stage-specific modulation of cortical development.

Bone morphogenetic protein receptor expressions in the adult rat brain

Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMP) are members of the transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) superfamily. BMPs exert its biological functions by interacting with membrane bound receptors belonging to the serine/threonine kinase family including bone morphogenetic protein receptor I (BMPRIA, BMPRIB) and type II (BMPRII). Although BMPR expressions have been well described in the early development of the CNS, little information is available for their expressions in the adult CNS. We, thus, investigated BMPR expressions in the adult rat CNS using immunohistochemistry. Here, we show that BMPRIA, IB and II proteins are widely expressed throughout the adult CNS. Interestingly, we observed that BMPRIA, IB and II proteins are abundantly expressed in many kinds of axons. In addition, we found that BAMRIB-IR was preferentially expressed in dendrites of many neurons throughout the CNS, while BMPRIA was mainly expressed in cell bodies, showing that BMPRIA and BMPRIB are differentially targeted in a single neuron. In addition, besides abundant BMPR expressions in neurons, we exhibited BMPR expressions in astrocytes and ependymal cells. These data indicate that BMPRs are more widely expressed throughout the adult CNS than previously reported, and their continued abundant expressions in the adult brain strongly support the idea that BMPRs play pivotal roles also in the adult brain.

Recombinant human TAT-OP1 to enhance NGF neurogenic potential: preliminary studies on PC12 cells

Osteogenic protein 1 (OP1), also known as bone morphogenic protein-7 (BMP7), is a multifunctional cytokine with demonstrated neurogenic potential. As the recombinant OP1 (rhOP1) was shown to provide axonal guidance cues and to prevent the reduction of dendritic growth in the injury-induced cortical cultures, it was suggested that an in vivo efficient rhOP1 delivery could enhance neurite growth and functional reconnectivity in the damaged brain. In the present work, we engineered a chimeric molecule in which rhBMP7 was fused to a protein transduction domain derived from HIV-1 TAT protein to deliver the denatured recombinant BMP7 into cells and obtain its chaperone-mediated folding, circumventing the expensive and not much efficient in vitro refolding procedures. When tested on rat PC12 cells, a widely used in vitro neurogenic differentiation model, the resulting fusion protein (rhTAT-OP1) demonstrated to enter fastly into the cells, lose HIV-TAT sequence and interact with membrane receptors activating BMP pathway by SMAD 1/5/8 phosphorylation. In comparison with nerve growth factor (NGF) and BMP7, it proved itself effective to induce the formation of more organized H and M neurofilaments. Moreover, if used in combination with NGF, it stimulated a significant (P < 0.05) and more precocious dendritic outgrowth with respect to NGF alone. These results indicate that rhTAT-OP1 fused with TAT transduction domain shows neurogenic activity and may be a promising enhancer factor in NGF-based therapies.

Rapid assembly of functional presynaptic boutons triggered by adhesive contacts

CNS synapse assembly typically follows after stable contacts between "appropriate" axonal and dendritic membranes are made. We show that presynaptic boutons selectively form de novo following neuronal fiber adhesion to beads coated with poly-d-lysine (PDL), an artificial cationic polypeptide. As demonstrated by atomic force and live confocal microscopy, functional presynaptic boutons self-assemble as rapidly as 1 h after bead contact, and are found to contain a variety of proteins characteristic of presynaptic endings. Interestingly, presynaptic compartment assembly does not depend on the presence of a biological postsynaptic membrane surface. Rather, heparan sulfate proteoglycans, including syndecan-2, as well as others possibly adsorbed onto the bead matrix or expressed on the axon surface, are required for assembly to proceed by a mechanism dependent on the dynamic reorganization of F-actin. Our results indicate that certain (but not all) nonspecific cationic molecules like PDL, with presumably electrostatically mediated adhesive properties, can effectively bypass cognate and natural postsynaptic ligands to trigger presynaptic assembly in the absence of specific target recognition. In contrast, we find that postsynaptic compartment assembly depends on the prior presence of a mature presynaptic ending.

Developmental control of synaptic receptivity

Are neurons born with the ability to form and receive synapses or do they acquire these abilities during development? We have previously found that purified postnatal retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) require soluble astrocyte-derived signals to form synapses in vitro and in vivo. Here we show that newly generated embryonic day 17 (E17) RGCs are able to form but not receive synapses under these conditions. Dendrite growth is not sufficient to trigger receptivity; rather, the ability of newly generated RGCs to receive synapses is acquired at E19 in response to direct contact by neighboring cell types. Direct contact with astrocytes, which are not present at E17 but are normally generated by E19, is sufficient to induce synaptic receptivity in E17 RGCs. In contrast, amacrine contact does not induce synaptic receptivity. Interestingly, astrocyte contact alters the localization of the synaptic adhesion molecule neurexin away from dendrites. In addition, dendritic expression of neurexin is sufficient to prevent astrocyte contact-mediated increases in synapse number, suggesting a molecular mechanism by which astrocyte contact regulates neuronal synaptic receptivity. Thus, synaptic receptivity is not induced simply by dendritic elaboration but must be signaled by both contact-mediated signaling from astrocytes and a shift in the dendritic localization of neurexin.

A potential role for bone morphogenetic protein signalling in glial cell fate determination following adult central nervous system injury in vivo

Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) and their endogenous inhibitors, including noggin, chordin and follistatin, have roles in pattern formation and fate specification of neuronal and glial cells during nervous system development. We have examined their influence on glial reactions in the injured central nervous system (CNS). We show that penetrating injuries to the brain and spinal cord resulted in the upregulation of BMP-2/4, BMP-7, and noggin, with the latter being expressed almost exclusively by reactive astrocytes at the injury site, and we show that astrocytes in vitro produce noggin. As BMPs have been shown to drive cultured NG2-positive oligodendrocyte precursors (OPCs) towards a multipotential phenotype (type II astrocytes), we investigated the effects of inhibiting noggin with a function-blocking antibody (noggin-FbAb). In vitro, BMP-driven conversion of OPCs to type 2 astrocytes was inhibited by noggin, an effect that was reversed by noggin-FbAb. Noggin-FbAb also increased the number of type 2 astrocytes generated from cultured OPCs exposed to an astrocyte feeder layer, consistent with astrocytes producing both BMPs and noggin. In knife cut injuries in vivo, noggin-FbAb treatment resulted in an increase in the number of NG2-positive cells and small GFAP-positive cells in the injury site, and the appearance of glial cells with the morphological and antigenic characteristics of type 2 astrocytes (as generated in vitro), with coexpression of both GFAP and NG2. This potential conversion of inhibitory OPCs to type 2 astrocyte-like cells in vivo suggests that endogenous BMPs, unmasked by noggin antagonism, might be exploited to manipulate cell fate following CNS trauma.