The role of CD36 in peripheral nerve remyelination after crush injury

PMP2 regulates myelin thickening and ATP production during remyelination

It is well established that axonal Neuregulin 1 type 3 (NRG1t3) regulates developmental myelin formation as well as EGR2-dependent gene activation and lipid synthesis. However, in peripheral neuropathy disease context, elevated axonal NRG1t3 improves remyelination and myelin sheath thickness without increasing Egr2 expression or activity, and without affecting the transcriptional activity of canonical myelination genes. Surprisingly, Pmp2, encoding for a myelin fatty acid binding protein, is the only gene whose expression increases in Schwann cells following overexpression of axonal NRG1t3. Here, we demonstrate PMP2 expression is directly regulated by NRG1t3 active form, following proteolytic cleavage. Then, using a transgenic mouse model overexpressing axonal NRG1t3 (NRG1t3OE) and knocked out for PMP2, we demonstrate that PMP2 is required for NRG1t3-mediated remyelination. We demonstrate that the sustained expression of Pmp2 in NRG1t3OE mice enhances the fatty acid uptake in sciatic nerve fibers and the mitochondrial ATP production in Schwann cells. In sum, our findings demonstrate that PMP2 is a direct downstream mediator of NRG1t3 and that the modulation of PMP2 downstream NRG1t3 activation has distinct effects on Schwann cell function during developmental myelination and remyelination.

A Role for Fatty Acids in Peripheral Neuropathy Associated with Type 2 Diabetes and Prediabetes

Significance: As the global prevalence of diabetes rises, diabetic complications are also increasing at an alarming rate. Peripheral neuropathy (PN) is the most prevalent complication of diabetes and prediabetes, and is characterized by progressive sensory loss resulting from nerve damage. While hyperglycemia is the major risk factor for PN in type 1 diabetes (T1D), the metabolic syndrome (MetS) underlies the onset and progression of PN in type 2 diabetes (T2D) and prediabetes. Recent Advances: Recent reports show that dyslipidemia, a MetS component, is strongly associated with PN in T2D and prediabetes. Dyslipidemia is characterized by an abnormal plasma lipid profile with uncontrolled lipid levels, and both clinical and preclinical studies implicate a role for dietary fatty acids (FAs) in PN pathogenesis. Molecular studies further show that saturated and unsaturated FAs differentially regulate the nerve lipid profile and nerve function. Critical Issues: We first review the properties of FAs and the neuroanatomy of the peripheral nervous system (PNS). Second, we discuss clinical and preclinical studies that implicate the involvement of FAs in PN. Third, we summarize the potential effects of FAs on nerve function and lipid metabolism within the peripheral nerves, sensory neurons, and Schwann cells. Future Directions: Future directions will focus on identifying molecular pathways in T2D and prediabetes that are modulated by FAs in PN. Determining pathophysiological mechanisms that underlie the injurious effects of saturated FAs and beneficial properties of unsaturated FAs will provide mechanistic targets for developing new targeted therapies to treat PN associated with T2D and prediabetes. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 37, 560-577.

Development of a magnetically aligned regenerative tissue-engineered electronic nerve interface for peripheral nerve applications

Peripheral nerve injuries can be debilitating to motor and sensory function, with severe cases often resulting in complete limb amputation. Over the past two decades, prosthetic limb technology has rapidly advanced to provide users with crude motor control of up to 20° of freedom; however, the nerve-interfacing technology required to provide high movement selectivity has not progressed at the same rate. The work presented here focuses on the development of a magnetically aligned regenerative tissue-engineered electronic nerve interface (MARTEENI) that combines polyimide "threads" encapsulated within a magnetically aligned hydrogel scaffold. The technology exploits tissue-engineered strategies to address concerns over traditional peripheral nerve interfaces including poor axonal sampling through the nerve and rigid substrates. A magnetically templated hydrogel is used to physically support the polyimide threads while also promoting regeneration in close proximity to the electrode sites on the polyimide. This work demonstrates the utility of magnetic templating for use in tuning the mechanical properties of hydrogel scaffolds to match the stiffness of native nerve tissue while providing an aligned substrate for Schwann cell migration in vitro. MARTEENI devices were fabricated and implanted within a 5-mm-long rat sciatic-nerve transection model to assess regeneration at 6 and 12 weeks. MARTEENI devices do not disrupt tissue remodeling and show axon densities equivalent to fresh tissue controls around the polyimide substrates. Devices are observed to have attenuated foreign-body responses around the polyimide threads. It is expected that future studies with functional MARTEENI devices will be able to record and stimulate single axons with high selectivity and low stimulation regimes.

Microglia in Neurodegenerative Events-An Initiator or a Significant Other?

A change in microglia structure, signaling, or function is commonly associated with neurodegeneration. This is evident in the patient population, animal models, and targeted in vitro assays. While there is a clear association, it is not evident that microglia serve as an initiator of neurodegeneration. Rather, the dynamics imply a close interaction between the various cell types and structures in the brain that orchestrate the injury and repair responses. Communication between microglia and neurons contributes to the physiological phenotype of microglia maintaining cells in a surveillance state and allows the cells to respond to events occurring in their environment. Interactions between microglia and astrocytes is not as well characterized, nor are interactions with other members of the neurovascular unit; however, given the influence of systemic factors on neuroinflammation and disease progression, such interactions likely represent significant contributes to any neurodegenerative process. In addition, they offer multiple target sites/processes by which environmental exposures could contribute to neurodegenerative disease. Thus, microglia at least play a role as a significant other with an equal partnership; however, claiming a role as an initiator of neurodegeneration remains somewhat controversial.

Genome-wide transcriptome architecture in a mouse model of Gulf War Illness

Gulf War Illness (GWI) is thought to be a chronic neuroimmune disorder caused by in-theater exposure during the 1990-1991 Gulf War. There is a consensus that the illness is caused by exposure to insecticides and nerve agent toxicants. However, the heterogeneity in both development of disease and clinical outcomes strongly suggests a genetic contribution. Here, we modeled GWI in 30 BXD recombinant inbred mouse strains with a combined treatment of corticosterone (CORT) and diisopropyl fluorophosphate (DFP). We quantified transcriptomes from 409 prefrontal cortex samples. Compared to the untreated and DFP treated controls, the combined treatment significantly activated pathways such as cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction and TNF signaling pathway. Protein-protein interaction analysis defined 6 subnetworks for CORT + DFP, with the key regulators being Cxcl1, Il6, Ccnb1, Tnf, Agt, and Itgam. We also identified 21 differentially expressed genes having significant QTLs related to CORT + DFP, but without evidence for untreated and DFP treated controls, suggesting regions of the genome specifically involved in the response to CORT + DFP. We identified Adamts9 as a potential contributor to response to CORT + DFP and found links to symptoms of GWI. Furthermore, we observed a significant effect of CORT + DFP treatment on the relative proportion of myelinating oligodendrocytes, with a QTL on Chromosome 5. We highlight three candidates, Magi2, Sema3c, and Gnai1, based on their high expression in the brain and oligodendrocyte. In summary, our results show significant genetic effects of the CORT + DFP treatment, which mirrors gene and protein expression changes seen in GWI sufferers, providing insight into the disease and a testbed for future interventions.

Myelin Fat Facts: An Overview of Lipids and Fatty Acid Metabolism

Myelin is critical for the proper function of the nervous system and one of the most complex cell–cell interactions of the body. Myelination allows for the rapid conduction of action potentials along axonal fibers and provides physical and trophic support to neurons. Myelin contains a high content of lipids, and the formation of the myelin sheath requires high levels of fatty acid and lipid synthesis, together with uptake of extracellular fatty acids. Recent studies have further advanced our understanding of the metabolism and functions of myelin fatty acids and lipids. In this review, we present an overview of the basic biology of myelin lipids and recent insights on the regulation of fatty acid metabolism and functions in myelinating cells. In addition, this review may serve to provide a foundation for future research characterizing the role of fatty acids and lipids in myelin biology and metabolic disorders affecting the central and peripheral nervous system.

The physiology of foamy phagocytes in multiple sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic disease of the central nervous system characterized by massive infiltration of immune cells, demyelination, and axonal loss. Active MS lesions mainly consist of macrophages and microglia containing abundant intracellular myelin remnants. Initial studies showed that these foamy phagocytes primarily promote MS disease progression by internalizing myelin debris, presenting brain-derived autoantigens, and adopting an inflammatory phenotype. However, more recent studies indicate that phagocytes can also adopt a beneficial phenotype upon myelin internalization. In this review, we summarize and discuss the current knowledge on the spatiotemporal physiology of foamy phagocytes in MS lesions, and elaborate on extrinsic and intrinsic factors regulating their behavior. In addition, we discuss and link the physiology of myelin-containing phagocytes to that of foamy macrophages in other disorders such atherosclerosis.

Preparation and evaluation of novel nano-bioglass/gelatin conduit for peripheral nerve regeneration

Peripheral nerves are exposed to physical injuries usually caused by trauma that may lead to a significant loss of sensory or motor functions and is considered as a serious health problem for societies today. This study was designed to develop a novel nano bioglass/gelatin conduit (BGGC) for the peripheral nerve regeneration. The bioglass nanoparticles were prepared by sol-gel technique and characterized using transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and X-ray diffraction analysis. The interfacial bonding interaction between the nano-bioglass and gelatin in the developed conduits was assessed by FTIR. The surface morphology and pore size of the nanocomposite were investigated through scanning electron microscopy with the pore size of the conduits being 10-40 μm. Biocompatibility was assessed by MTT assay which indicated the BGGC to have good cytocompatibility. The guidance channel was examined and used to regenerate a 10 mm gap in the right sciatic nerve of a male Wistar rat. Twenty rats were randomly divided into two experimental groups, one with the BGGC and the other being normal rats. The gastrocnemius muscle contractility was also examined at one, two and three months post-surgery in all groups using electromyography (EMAP). Histological and functional evaluation and the results obtained from electromyography indicated that at three months, nerve regeneration of the BGGC group was statistically equivalent to the normal group (p > 0.05). Our result suggests that the BGGC can be a suitable candidate for peripheral nerve repair.

Oxidized low-density lipoprotein as a biomarker of in vivo oxidative stress: from atherosclerosis to periodontitis

Oxidized low-density lipoprotein is known as an important factor in the development of atherosclerosis. The introduction of a sensitive procedure for the determination of oxidized low-density lipoprotein in human circulating plasma using a monoclonal antibody recognizing oxidized phosphatidylcholines has opened new fields of research based on in vivo oxidized low-density lipoprotein. The plasma oxidized low-density lipoprotein levels are significantly elevated in patients with acute myocardial infarction, cerebral infarction or chronic renal failure accompanied by hemodialysis. It was found that the plasma oxidized low-density lipoprotein level increased prior to aortic atherosclerotic lesion enlargement in apolipoprotein E-knockout mice. Recent studies have pointed out that oxidized low-density lipoprotein is transferrable between vessel wall tissue and the circulation, so it is a reasonable hypothesis that plasma oxidized low-density lipoprotein levels reflect the oxidative status at local sites of atherogenesis. Oxidized low-density lipoprotein measurement has been applied to human gingival crevicular fluids, which can be collected easily and safely, and relatively high levels of oxidized low-density lipoprotein were shown to be present. These findings, together with recent clinical follow-up studies, suggest that oxidized low-density lipoprotein is a predictive biomarker of a variety of diseases related to oxidative stress. This review summarizes the current understanding of in vivo oxidized low-density lipoprotein and its potential significance as a biomarker of disease.

Raft aggregation with specific receptor recruitment is required for microglial phagocytosis of Abeta42

Microglial phagocytosis contributes to the maintenance of brain homeostasis. Mechanisms involved, however, remain unclear. Using Abeta(42) solely as a stimulant, we provide novel insight into regulation of microglial phagocytosis by rafts. We demonstrate the existence of an Abeta(42) threshold level of 250 pg/mL, above which microglial phagocytic function is impaired. Low levels of Abeta(42) facilitate fluorescent bead uptake, whereas phagocytosis is inhibited when Abeta(42) accumulates. We also show that region-specific raft clustering occurs before microglial phagocytosis. Low Abeta(42) levels stimulated this type of raft aggregation, but high Abeta(42) levels inhibited it. Additionally, treatment with high Abeta(42) concentrations caused a redistribution of the raft structural protein flotillin1 from low to higher density fractions along a sucrose gradient. This suggests a loss of raft structural integrity. Certain non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, e.g., the cyclooxygenase 2-specific nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, celecoxib, raise Abeta(42) levels. We demonstrated that prolonged celecoxib exposure can disrupt rafts in a manner similar to that seen in an elevated Abeta(42) environment: abnormal raft aggregation and Flot1 distribution. This resulted in aberrant receptor recruitment to rafts and impaired receptor-mediated phagocytosis by microglial cells. Specifically, recruitment of the scavenger receptor CD36 to rafts during active phagocytosis was affected. Thus, we propose that maintaining raft integrity is crucial for determining microglial phagocytic outcomes and disease progression.

Pioglitazone promotes peripheral nerve remyelination after crush injury through CD36 upregulation

In our previous study, we found that CD36-deficient mice showed significant delays in peripheral nerve remyelination after sciatic nerve crush injury and suggested that CD36 played an important role in the restoration of injured peripheral nerves. The aim of this study was to investigate whether CD36 upregulation can promote peripheral nerve remyelination. We made crush injury that caused demyelination and mild axonal degeneration to sciatic nerves and investigated the effect of pioglitazone (PIO) on the remyelination post-injury in C57Bl/6 wild-type and CD36-deficient mice. The immunohistochemistry with anti-CD36 antibody showed that CD36 was upregulated in macrophages infiltrating peripheral nerves from the wild-type mice by PIO administration at 1 week post-injury. The lectin histochemistry represented that infiltrating macrophages lessened in the wild-type mice at 3 weeks post-injury by PIO administration. General histopathology and morphometry indicated that thinly myelinated fibers and naked axons diminished in PIO-treated wild-type mice compared with non-treated wild-type mice at 3 weeks post-injury. No significant differences were observed in remyelination and number of infiltrating macrophages between PIO-treated and non-treated CD36-deficient mice. These results indicate that PIO promotes peripheral nerve remyelination possibly through CD36. It may be possible to apply PIO to the remedy against demyelinating neuropathies.

Astrocytes are active players in cerebral innate immunity

Innate immunity is a constitutive component of the central nervous system (CNS) and relies strongly on resident myeloid cells, the microglia. However, evidence is emerging that the most abundant glial cell population of the CNS, the astrocyte, participates in the local innate immune response triggered by a variety of insults. Astrocytes display an array of receptors involved in innate immunity, including Toll-like receptors, nucleotide-binding oligomerization domains, double-stranded RNA-dependent protein kinase, scavenger receptors, mannose receptor and components of the complement system. Following activation, astrocytes are endowed with the ability to secrete soluble mediators, such as CXCL10, CCL2, interleukin-6 and BAFF, which have an impact on both innate and adaptive immune responses. The role of astrocytes in inflammation and tissue repair is elaborated by recent in vivo studies employing cell-type specific gene targeting.

Desert hedgehog-patched 2 expression in peripheral nerves during Wallerian degeneration and regeneration

Hedgehog proteins are important in the development of the nervous system. As Desert hedgehog (Dhh) is involved in the development of peripheral nerves and is expressed in adult nerves, it may play a role in the maintenance of adult nerves and degeneration and regeneration after injury. We firstly investigated the Dhh-receptors, which are expressed in mouse adult nerves. The Dhh receptor patched(ptc)2 was detected in adult sciatic nerves using RT-PCR, however, ptc1 was undetectable under the same experimental condition. Using RT-PCR in purified cultures of mouse Schwann cells and fibroblasts, we found ptc2 mRNA in Schwann cells, and at much lower levels, in fibroblasts. By immunohistochemistry, Ptc2 protein was seen on unmyelinated nerve fibers. Then we induced crush injury to the sciatic nerves of wild-type (WT) and dhh-null mice and the distal stumps of injured nerves were analyzed morphologically at different time points and expression of dhh and related receptors was also measured by RT-PCR in WT mice. In dhh-null mice, degeneration of myelinated fibers was more severe than in WT mice. Furthermore, in regenerated nerves of dhh-null mice, minifascicular formation was even more extensive than in dhh-null intact nerves. Both dhh and ptc2 mRNA levels were down-regulated during the degenerative phase postinjury in WT mice, while levels rose again during the phase of nerve regeneration. These results suggest that the Dhh-Ptc2 signaling pathway may be involved in the maintenance of adult nerves and may be one of the factors that directly or indirectly determines the response of peripheral nerves to injury.

A multiparametric assay for quantitative nerve regeneration evaluation

We introduce an assay for the semi-automated quantification of nerve regeneration by image analysis. Digital images of histological sections of regenerated nerves are recorded using an automated inverted microscope and merged into high-resolution mosaic images representing the entire nerve. These are analysed by a dedicated image-processing package that computes nerve-specific features (e.g. nerve area, fibre count, myelinated area) and fibre-specific features (area, perimeter, myelin sheet thickness). The assay's performance and correlation of the automatically computed data with visually obtained data are determined on a set of 140 semithin sections from the distal part of a rat tibial nerve from four different experimental treatment groups (control, sham, sutured, cut) taken at seven different time points after surgery. Results show a high correlation between the manually and automatically derived data, and a high discriminative power towards treatment. Extra value is added by the large feature set. In conclusion, the assay is fast and offers data that currently can be obtained only by a combination of laborious and time-consuming tests.

Macrophage-depletion induced impairment of experimental CNS remyelination is associated with a reduced oligodendrocyte progenitor cell response and altered growth factor expression

Although macrophages are mediators of CNS demyelination, they are also implicated in remyelination. To examine the role of macrophages in CNS remyelination, adult rats were depleted of monocytes using clodronate liposomes and demyelination induced in the spinal cord white matter using lysolecithin. In situ hybridization for scavenger receptor-B and myelin basic protein (MBP) revealed a transiently impaired macrophage response associated with delayed remyelination in liposome-treated animals. Macrophage reduction corresponded with delayed recruitment of PDGFRalpha+ oligodendrocyte progenitor cells (OPCs), which preceded changes in myelin phagocytosis, indicating a macrophage effect on OPCs independent of myelin debris clearance. Macrophage-depletion induced changes in the mRNA expression of insulin-like growth factor-1 and transforming growth factor beta1, but not platelet-derived growth factor-A and fibroblast growth factor-2. These data suggest that the macrophage response to toxin-induced demyelination influences the growth factor environment, thereby affecting the behavior of OPCs and hence the efficiency of remyelination.