1
|
Gall CM, Le AA, Lynch G. Sex differences in synaptic plasticity underlying learning. J Neurosci Res 2023; 101:764-782. [PMID: 33847004 PMCID: PMC10337639 DOI: 10.1002/jnr.24844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2021] [Accepted: 03/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Although sex differences in learning behaviors are well documented, sexual dimorphism in the synaptic processes of encoding is only recently appreciated. Studies in male rodents have built upon the discovery of long-term potentiation (LTP), and acceptance of this activity-dependent increase in synaptic strength as a mechanism of encoding, to identify synaptic receptors and signaling activities that coordinate the activity-dependent remodeling of the subsynaptic actin cytoskeleton that is critical for enduring potentiation and memory. These molecular substrates together with other features of LTP, as characterized in males, have provided an explanation for a range of memory phenomena including multiple stages of consolidation, the efficacy of spaced training, and the location of engrams at the level of individual synapses. In the present report, we summarize these findings and describe more recent results from our laboratories showing that in females the same actin regulatory mechanisms are required for hippocampal LTP and memory but, in females only, the engagement of both modulatory receptors such as TrkB and synaptic signaling intermediaries including Src and ERK1/2 requires neuron-derived estrogen and signaling through membrane-associated estrogen receptor α (ERα). Moreover, in association with the additional ERα involvement, females exhibit a higher threshold for hippocampal LTP and spatial learning. We propose that the distinct LTP threshold in females contributes to as yet unappreciated sex differences in information processing and features of learning and memory.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christine M. Gall
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Aliza A. Le
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Gary Lynch
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Feng Y, Shi R, Hu J, Lou S. Effects of neural-derived estradiol on actin polymerization and synaptic plasticity-related proteins in prefrontal and hippocampal cells of mice. Steroids 2022; 177:108935. [PMID: 34715132 DOI: 10.1016/j.steroids.2021.108935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2021] [Revised: 10/07/2021] [Accepted: 10/13/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Neural-derived 17β-estradiol (E2) plays an important role in the synaptic plasticity of the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex, but the mechanism is not well defined. This study was designed to explore the effect and mechanism of neural-derived E2 on synaptic plasticity of the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex. Primary cultured hippocampal and prefrontal cells in mice were randomly divided into the DMSO (D), aromatase (Rate-limiting enzymes for E2 synthesizes) inhibitor letrozole (L), and ERs antagonist (MPG) treated groups. After intervention for 48 h, the cell was collected, and then, the expressions of AMPA-receptor subunit GluR1 (GluR1), synaptophysin (SYN), p-21-Activated kinase (PAK) phosphorylation, Rho kinase (ROCK), p-Cofilin, F-actin, and G-actin proteins were detected. Letrozole or ER antagonists inhibited the expression of GluR1, F-actin/G-actin, p-PAK and p-Cofilin proteins in prefrontal cells significantly. And the expressions of GluR1 and F-actin/G-actin proteins were declined in hippocampal cells markedly after adding letrozole or ERs antagonists. In conclusion, neural-derived E2 and ERs regulated the synaptic plasticity, possibly due to promoting actin polymerization in prefrontal and hippocampal cells. The regional specificity in the effect of neural-derived E2 and ERs on the actin polymerization-related pathway may provide a theoretical basis for the functional differences between the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yu Feng
- Shanghai University of Sport, Kinesiology, Shanghai, China
| | - Rengfei Shi
- Shanghai University of Sport, Kinesiology, Shanghai, China
| | - Jingyun Hu
- Shanghai University of Sport, Kinesiology, Shanghai, China
| | - Shujie Lou
- Shanghai University of Sport, Kinesiology, Shanghai, China.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Yuasa T, Takata Y, Aki N, Kunimi K, Satoh M, Nii M, Izumi Y, Otoda T, Hashida S, Osawa H, Aihara KI. Insulin receptor cleavage induced by estrogen impairs insulin signaling. BMJ Open Diabetes Res Care 2021; 9:9/2/e002467. [PMID: 34969688 PMCID: PMC8719150 DOI: 10.1136/bmjdrc-2021-002467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Soluble insulin receptor (sIR), which is the ectodomain of insulin receptor (IR), is present in human plasma. Plasma sIR levels are positively correlated with blood glucose levels and negatively correlated with insulin sensitivity. An in vitro model of IR cleavage shows that extracellular calpain 2 directly cleaves IR, which generates sIR, and sequential cleavage of the IRβ subunit by γ-secretase impairs insulin signaling in a glucose concentration-dependent manner. Nevertheless, sIR levels vary among subjects with normal glucose levels. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS We examined sIR levels of pregnant women throughout gestation. Using an in vitro model, we also investigated the molecular mechanisms of IR cleavage induced by estradiol. RESULTS In pregnant women, sIR levels were positively correlated with estrogen levels and significantly increased at late pregnancy independent of glucose levels. Using an in vitro model, estrogen elicited IR cleavage and impaired cellular insulin signaling. Estradiol-induced IR cleavage was inhibited by targeting of calpain 2 and γ-secretase. Estrogen exerted these biological effects via G protein-coupled estrogen receptor, and its selective ligand upregulated calpain 2 expression and promoted exosome secretion, which significantly increased extracellular calpain 2. Simultaneous stimulation of estrogen and high glucose levels had a synergic effect on IR cleavage. Metformin prevented calpain 2 release in exosomes and restored insulin signaling impaired by estrogen. CONCLUSIONS Estradiol-induced IR cleavage causes cellular insulin resistance, and its molecular mechanisms are shared with those by high glucose levels. sIR levels at late pregnancy are significantly elevated along with estrogen levels. Therefore, estradiol-induced IR cleavage is preserved in pregnant women and could be part of the etiology of insulin resistance in gestational diabetes mellitus and overt diabetes during pregnancy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tomoyuki Yuasa
- Community Medicine and Medical Science, Tokushima University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Yasunori Takata
- Diabetes and Molecular Genetics, Ehime University Graduate School of Medicine, Toon, Japan
| | - Nanako Aki
- Internal Medicine, Anan Kyoei Hospital, Anan, Japan
| | - Kotaro Kunimi
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, Anan Kyoei Hospital, Anan, Japan
| | - Miki Satoh
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, Anan Kyoei Hospital, Anan, Japan
| | - Mari Nii
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, Anan Kyoei Hospital, Anan, Japan
| | | | - Toshiki Otoda
- Community Medicine and Medical Science, Tokushima University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Seiichi Hashida
- Diabetes and Molecular Genetics, Ehime University Graduate School of Medicine, Toon, Japan
| | - Haruhiko Osawa
- Diabetes and Molecular Genetics, Ehime University Graduate School of Medicine, Toon, Japan
| | - Ken-Ichi Aihara
- Community Medicine and Medical Science, Tokushima University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Batallán Burrowes AA, Sundarakrishnan A, Bouhour C, Chapman CA. G protein-coupled estrogen receptor-1 enhances excitatory synaptic responses in the entorhinal cortex. Hippocampus 2021; 31:1191-1201. [PMID: 34399010 DOI: 10.1002/hipo.23383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Revised: 07/16/2021] [Accepted: 07/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Activation of estrogen receptors is thought to modulate cognitive function in the hippocampus, prefrontal cortex, and striatum by affecting both excitatory and inhibitory synaptic transmission. The entorhinal cortex is a major source of cortical sensory and associational input to the hippocampus, but it is unclear whether either estrogens or progestogens may modulate cognitive function through effects on synaptic transmission in the entorhinal cortex. This study assessed the effects of the brief application of either 17-β estradiol (E2) or progesterone on excitatory glutamatergic synaptic transmission in the female rat entorhinal cortex in vitro. Rats were ovariectomized on postnatal day (PD) 63 and also received subdermal E2 implants to maintain constant low levels of circulating E2 on par with estrus. Electrophysiological recordings from brain slices were obtained between PD70 and PD86, and field excitatory postsynaptic potentials (fEPSPs) reflecting the activation of the superficial layers of the entorhinal cortex were evoked by the stimulation of layer I afferents. The application of E2 (10 nM) for 20 min resulted in a small increase in the amplitude of fEPSPs that reversed during the 30-min washout period. The application of the ERα agonist propylpyrazoletriol (PPT) (100 nM) or the β agonist DPN (1 μM) did not significantly affect synaptic responses. However, the application of the G protein-coupled estrogen receptor-1 (GPER1) agonist G1 (100 nM) induced a reversible increase in fEPSP amplitude similar to that induced by E2. Furthermore, the potentiation of responses induced by G1 was blocked by the GPER1 antagonist G15 (1 μM). Application of progesterone (100 nM) or its metabolite allopregnanolone (1 μM) did not significantly affect synaptic responses. The potentiation of synaptic transmission in the entorhinal cortex induced by the activation of GPER1 receptors may contribute to the modulation of cognitive function in female rats.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ariel A Batallán Burrowes
- Center for Studies in Behavioral Neurobiology, Department of Psychology, Concordia University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Adithi Sundarakrishnan
- Center for Studies in Behavioral Neurobiology, Department of Psychology, Concordia University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Camille Bouhour
- Center for Studies in Behavioral Neurobiology, Department of Psychology, Concordia University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Clifton Andrew Chapman
- Center for Studies in Behavioral Neurobiology, Department of Psychology, Concordia University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Zearalenone alters the excitability of rat neuronal networks after acute in vitro exposure. Neurotoxicology 2021; 86:139-148. [PMID: 34363844 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuro.2021.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2021] [Revised: 07/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Zearalenone (ZEA) is a mycotoxin produced by Fusarium species, detectable in various cereals and processed food products worldwide. ZEA displays a significant estrogenic activity, thus its main health risk is the interference with sexual maturation and reproduction processes. However, in addition to being key hormonal regulators of reproductive function, estrogenic compounds have a widespread role in brain, as neurotrophic and neuroprotective factors, and they may influence the activity of several brain areas not directly linked to reproduction, as well. Therefore, in the present study, acute effects of ZEA were studied on certain neuronal functions in rats. Experiments were performed on rat brain slices or live rats. Slices were incubated in ZEA-containing (10-100 μM) solution for 30 min. Electrically evoked and spontaneous field potentials were studied in the neocortex and in the hippocampus. At higher concentrations, ZEA incubation of the slices altered excitability and the pattern of epileptiform activity in neocortex and inhibited the development of LTP in hippocampus. For the verification of these in vitro results, in vivo electrophysiological and immunohistochemical investigations were also performed. ZEA was administered systemically (5 mg/kg, i.p.) to male rats and somatosensory evoked potentials and neuronal activation studied by c-fos expression were analyzed. No neuronal activation could be demonstrated in the hippocampus within 2 h of the injection. In the somatosensory cortex, ZEA did not change in vivo evoked potential parameters, but the activation of a small neuronal population could be demonstrated with the c-fos technique in this brain area. This result could be associated with the ZEA-induced alteration of epileptiform activity observed in vitro. Altogether, the toxin altered the excitability and plasticity of neuronal networks after direct treatment in slices, but the effects were less prominent on the given brain areas after systemic treatment in vivo. A probable explanation for the partial lack of in vivo effects may be that after a single injection, ZEA did not cross the blood-brain barrier at sufficient rate to allow the build-up of comparable concentrations in the investigated brain areas. However, in case of compromised blood-brain barrier functions or long-term repeated exposure, alterations in cortical and hippocampal functions cannot be ruled out.
Collapse
|
6
|
Baudry M. Meet Our Editorial Board Member. Curr Neuropharmacol 2021. [DOI: 10.2174/1570159x1903210216110739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Michel Baudry
- University Professor Western University of Health Sciences 309 E. 2nd St Pomona, CA 91766,United States
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Meet Our Editorial Board Member. Curr Neuropharmacol 2021. [PMCID: PMC8033963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
|
8
|
Zhang M, Weiland H, Schöfbänker M, Zhang W. Estrogen Receptors Alpha and Beta Mediate Synaptic Transmission in the PFC and Hippocampus of Mice. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22031485. [PMID: 33540803 PMCID: PMC7867372 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22031485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2020] [Revised: 01/27/2021] [Accepted: 01/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Distinct from ovarian estradiol, the steroid hormone 17ß-estradiol (E2) is produced in the brain and is involved in numerous functions, particularly acting as a neurosteroid. However, the physiological role of E2 and the mechanism of its effects are not well known. In hippocampal slices, 17ß-estradiol has been found to cause a modest increase in fast glutamatergic transmission; because some of these effects are rapid and acute, they might be mediated by membrane-associated receptors via nongenomic action. Moreover, activation of membrane estrogen receptors can rapidly modulate neuron function in a sex-specific manner. To further investigate the neurological role of E2, we examined the effect of E2, as an estrogen receptor (ER) agonist, on synaptic transmission in slices of the prefrontal cortex (PFC) and hippocampus in both male and female mice. Whole-cell recordings of spontaneous excitatory postsynaptic currents (sEPSC) in the PFC showed that E2 acts as a neuromodulator in glutamatergic transmission in the PFC in both sexes, but often in a cell-specific manner. The sEPSC amplitude and/or frequency responded to E2 in three ways, namely by significantly increasing, decreasing or having no response. Additional experiments using an agonist selective for ERß, diarylpropionitrile (DPN) showed that in males the sEPSC and spontaneous inhibitory postsynaptic currents sIPSC responses were similar to their E2 responses, but in females the estrogen receptor ß (ERß) agonist DPN did not influence excitatory transmission in the PFC. In contrast, in the hippocampus of both sexes E2 potentiated the gluatmatergic synaptic transmission in a subset of hippocampal cells. These data indicate that activation of E2 targeting probably a estrogen subtypes or different downstream signaling affect synaptic transmission in the brain PFC and hippocampus between males versus females mice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mingyue Zhang
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-2518-351-824; Fax: +49-2518-357-123
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
9
|
Fenske L, Concato AC, Vanin AP, Tamagno WA, de Oliveira Sofiatti JR, Treichel H, da Rosa JGS, Barcellos LJG, Kaizer RR. 17-α-Ethinylestradiol modulates endocrine and behavioral responses to stress in zebrafish. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2020; 27:29341-29351. [PMID: 32440876 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-020-09318-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2019] [Accepted: 05/14/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The synthetic estrogen, 17-α-ethinylestradiol (EE2), present in contraceptive pills, is an endocrine-disrupting chemical (EDC) that can be found in the aquatic environment. We examined the impacts of EE2 on zebrafish behavioral and physiological responses through the novel tank test (NTT), which measures anxiety-like behavior; the mirror-induced aggression (MIA) test, which measures aggressiveness; and the social preference test (SPT), which measures social cohesion. The steroid hormone levels were also measured. Here, we show that exposure to EE2 impairs stress responses by regulating the levels of specific hormones and eliciting an anxiolytic response, increasing aggression, and reducing social preference in zebrafish. In nature, these changes in behavior compromise reproduction and anti-predator behaviors, which, in turn, affects species survival. The maintenance of an intact behavioral repertoire in zebrafish is essential for their survival. Thus, our results point to the danger of environmental contamination with EE2 as it may alter the dynamics of the prey-predator relationship.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lurian Fenske
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciência e Tecnologia Ambiental, Universidade Federal da Fronteira Sul, Rodovia RS 135, Km 72, Erechim, RS, 99700-970, Brazil
| | - Ani Carla Concato
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciência e Tecnologia Ambiental, Universidade Federal da Fronteira Sul, Rodovia RS 135, Km 72, Erechim, RS, 99700-970, Brazil
- Instituto Federal de Educação, Ciência e Tecnologia do Rio Grande do Sul, Campus Sertão, Rodovia RS 135, Km 25, Sertão, RS, 99170-000, Brazil
| | - Ana Paula Vanin
- Instituto Federal de Educação, Ciência e Tecnologia do Rio Grande do Sul, Campus Sertão, Rodovia RS 135, Km 25, Sertão, RS, 99170-000, Brazil
| | - Wagner Antonio Tamagno
- Instituto Federal de Educação, Ciência e Tecnologia do Rio Grande do Sul, Campus Sertão, Rodovia RS 135, Km 25, Sertão, RS, 99170-000, Brazil
| | - Jéssica Reis de Oliveira Sofiatti
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciência e Tecnologia Ambiental, Universidade Federal da Fronteira Sul, Rodovia RS 135, Km 72, Erechim, RS, 99700-970, Brazil
| | - Helen Treichel
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciência e Tecnologia Ambiental, Universidade Federal da Fronteira Sul, Rodovia RS 135, Km 72, Erechim, RS, 99700-970, Brazil
| | | | - Leonardo José Gil Barcellos
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Farmacologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria (UFSM), Av. Roraima, 1000, Cidade Universitária, Camobi, Santa Maria, RS, 97105-900, Brazil
- Curso de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade de Passo Fundo (UPF), BR 285, São José, Passo Fundo, RS, 99052-900, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Bioexperimentação, Universidade de Passo Fundo (UPF), BR 285, São José, Passo Fundo, RS, 99052-900, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Ambientais, Universidade de Passo Fundo (UPF), BR 285, São José, Passo Fundo, RS, 99052-900, Brazil
| | - Rosilene R Kaizer
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciência e Tecnologia Ambiental, Universidade Federal da Fronteira Sul, Rodovia RS 135, Km 72, Erechim, RS, 99700-970, Brazil.
- Instituto Federal de Educação, Ciência e Tecnologia do Rio Grande do Sul, Campus Sertão, Rodovia RS 135, Km 25, Sertão, RS, 99170-000, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
CaMKII/calpain interaction mediates ischemia/reperfusion injury in isolated rat hearts. Cell Death Dis 2020; 11:388. [PMID: 32439852 PMCID: PMC7242471 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-020-2605-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2019] [Revised: 05/13/2020] [Accepted: 05/14/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Previous studies indicated that Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent kinase II (CaMKII), a kinase involved in the modulation of ryanodine receptor activity, activates Ca2+-regulated protease μ-calpain to promote myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury. This study was performed to explore the underlying mechanisms in CaMKII-induced calpain activation to better understand heart injury. To examine the Ca2+ paradox and ischemia/reperfusion injury, isolated rat hearts were subjected to a Ca2+-free solution for 3 min, or left coronary artery occlusion for 40 min, prior to restoration of normal perfusion. Blockade of trans-sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ flux using ryanodine and thapsigargin failed to prevent Ca2+ paradox-induced heart injury. In contrast, the Ca2+ paradox increased CaMKII auto-phosphorylation at Thr287, while the CaMKII inhibitor KN-62 and the Na+/Ca2+ exchanger inhibitor KB-R7943 alleviated heart injury and calpain activity. Intriguingly, the binding of μ-calpain large subunit calpain-1 (CAPN1) to phospho-CaMKII was blunted by both inhibitors. Thus, a Ca2+ leak via the ryanodine receptor is not an essential element in CaMKII-elicited calpain activation. In hearts receiving vector injection, ischemia/reperfusion caused elevated calpain activity and α-fodrin degradation, along with membrane integrity damage, similar to the effects noted in control hearts. Importantly, all these alterations were diminished with delivery of adeno-associated virus expressing mutant CaMKIIδC T287A. Ischemia/reperfusion increased CaMKII auto-phosphorylation and binding of CAPN1 to phospho-CaMKII, and facilitated the translocation of phospho-CaMKII and CAPN1 to the plasma membrane, all of which were reversed by injecting CaMKII mutant. Furthermore, the relocation capacity and the interaction of CaMKII with CAPN1 appeared to be dependent upon CaMKII autophosphorylation, as its mutant delivery increased the level of CaMKII, but did not increase membrane content of CaMKII and CAPN1, or their interactions. Together, CaMKII/calpain interaction represents a new avenue for mediating myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury, and CaMKII likely serves as both a kinase and a carrier, thereby promoting calpain membrane translocation and activation.
Collapse
|
11
|
Naderi M, Salahinejad A, Attaran A, Niyogi S, Chivers DP. Rapid effects of estradiol and its receptor agonists on object recognition and object placement in adult male zebrafish. Behav Brain Res 2020; 384:112514. [PMID: 32004591 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2020.112514] [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: 11/30/2019] [Revised: 01/15/2020] [Accepted: 01/24/2020] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
In recent years, there has been a growing appreciation that 17β-estradiol (E2) can rapidly modulate learning and memory processes by binding to membrane estrogen receptors and cause the activation of a number of signaling cascades within the central nervous system. In this study, we sought to investigate the effects of post-training administration of E2 (100 ng/g, 1 μg/g, 10 μg/g) and involvement of the estrogen receptors (ERs) using selective ER agonists on the consolidation of object recognition (OR) and object placement memory (OP) in adult male zebrafish. The general activation of ERs with the highest E2 dose improved consolidation of memory in both learning tasks within 1.45 h of administration. Activation of classical ERs (ERα and ERβ) improved consolidation of OR memory, but had no effect on fish performance in OP task. On the other hand, activation of G protein-coupled ER1 impaired and enhanced consolidation of OR and OP memories, respectively. Memory improvement in both tasks was accompanied by a marked up-regulation in the expression of genes encoding ionotropic and metabotropic glutamate receptors in a task-dependent manner. In contrast, the down-regulation in the expression of certain ionotropic glutamate receptors was observed in fish with impaired OR memory. Moreover, our study also revealed an increase in the transcript abundance of genes associated with synaptic protein synthesis (brain-derived neurotrophic factor, synaptophysin, and the mechanistic target of rapamycin). These results suggest that E2 may affect consolidation of memory in zebrafish likely through rapid changes in synaptic morphology and function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Naderi
- Department of Biology, University of Saskatchewan, 112 Science Place, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5E2, Canada.
| | - Arash Salahinejad
- Department of Biology, University of Saskatchewan, 112 Science Place, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5E2, Canada
| | - Anoosha Attaran
- Department of Biology, University of Saskatchewan, 112 Science Place, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5E2, Canada
| | - Som Niyogi
- Department of Biology, University of Saskatchewan, 112 Science Place, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5E2, Canada; Toxicology Centre, University of Saskatchewan, 44 Campus Drive, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5B3, Canada
| | - Douglas P Chivers
- Department of Biology, University of Saskatchewan, 112 Science Place, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5E2, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
van Veen JE, Kammel LG, Bunda PC, Shum M, Reid MS, Massa MG, Arneson D, Park JW, Zhang Z, Joseph AM, Hrncir H, Liesa M, Arnold AP, Yang X, Correa SM. Hypothalamic estrogen receptor alpha establishes a sexually dimorphic regulatory node of energy expenditure. Nat Metab 2020; 2:351-363. [PMID: 32377634 PMCID: PMC7202561 DOI: 10.1038/s42255-020-0189-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2019] [Accepted: 03/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Estrogen receptor a (ERa) signaling in the ventromedial hypothalamus (VMH) contributes to energy homeostasis by modulating physical activity and thermogenesis. However, the precise neuronal populations involved remain undefined. Here, we describe six neuronal populations in the mouse VMH by using single-cell RNA transcriptomics and in situ hybridization. ERa is enriched in populations showing sex biased expression of reprimo (Rprm), tachykinin 1 (Tac1), and prodynorphin (Pdyn). Female biased expression of Tac1 and Rprm is patterned by ERa-dependent repression during male development, whereas male biased expression of Pdyn is maintained by circulating testicular hormone in adulthood. Chemogenetic activation of ERa positive VMH neurons stimulates heat generation and movement in both sexes. However, silencing Rprm gene function increases core temperature selectively in females and ectopic Rprm expression in males is associated with reduced core temperature. Together these findings reveal a role for Rprm in temperature regulation and ERa in the masculinization of neuron populations that underlie energy expenditure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J Edward van Veen
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology of the Brain Research Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- authors contributed equally
| | - Laura G Kammel
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology of the Brain Research Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Molecular, Cellular, and Integrative Physiology Graduate Program, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- authors contributed equally
| | - Patricia C Bunda
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Michael Shum
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, and Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Michelle S Reid
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Megan G Massa
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology of the Brain Research Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Neuroscience Interdepartmental Doctoral Program, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Douglas Arneson
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Jae W Park
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Zhi Zhang
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology of the Brain Research Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Alexia M Joseph
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Haley Hrncir
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Marc Liesa
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, and Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Arthur P Arnold
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology of the Brain Research Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Xia Yang
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Stephanie M Correa
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology of the Brain Research Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
The Relationship Between Glutamate Dynamics and Activity-Dependent Synaptic Plasticity. J Neurosci 2020; 40:2793-2807. [PMID: 32102922 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.1655-19.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2019] [Revised: 02/05/2020] [Accepted: 02/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The spatiotemporal dynamics of excitatory neurotransmission must be tightly regulated to achieve efficient synaptic communication. By limiting spillover, glutamate transporters are believed to prevent excessive activation of extrasynaptically located receptors that can impair synaptic plasticity. While glutamate transporter expression is reduced in numerous neurodegenerative diseases, the contributions of transporter dysfunction to disease pathophysiology remain ambiguous as the fundamental relationship between glutamate dynamics and plasticity, and the mechanisms linking these two phenomena, remain poorly understood. Here, we combined electrophysiology and real-time high-speed imaging of extracellular glutamate transients during LTP induction and characterized the sensitivity of the relationship between glutamate dynamics during theta burst stimulation (TBS) and the resulting magnitude of LTP consolidation, both in control conditions and following selective and nonselective glutamate transporter blockade. Glutamate clearance times were negatively correlated with LTP magnitude following nonselective glutamate transporter inhibition but not following selective blockade of a majority of GLT-1, the brain's most abundant glutamate transporter. Although glutamate transporter inhibition reduced the postsynaptic population response to TBS, calcium responses to TBS were greatly exaggerated. The source of excess calcium was dependent on NMDARs, L-type VGCCs, GluA2-lacking AMPARs, and internal calcium stores. Surprisingly, inhibition of L-type VGCCs, but not GluA2-lacking AMPARs or ryanodine receptors, was required to restore robust LTP. In all, these data provide a detailed understanding of the relationship between glutamate dynamics and plasticity and uncover important mechanisms by which poor glutamate uptake can negatively impact LTP consolidation.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Specific patterns of neural activity can promote long-term changes in the strength of synaptic connections through a phenomenon known as synaptic plasticity. Synaptic plasticity is well accepted to represent the cellular mechanisms underlying learning and memory, and many forms of plasticity are initiated by the excitatory neurotransmitter glutamate. While essential for rapid cellular communication in the brain, excessive levels of extracellular glutamate can negatively impact brain function. In this study, we demonstrate that pharmacological manipulations that increase the availability of extracellular glutamate during neural activity can have profoundly negative consequences on synaptic plasticity. We identify mechanisms through which excess glutamate can negatively influence synaptic plasticity, and we discuss the relevance of these findings to neurodegenerative diseases and in the aging brain.
Collapse
|
14
|
Clements L, Harvey J. Activation of oestrogen receptor α induces a novel form of LTP at hippocampal temporoammonic-CA1 synapses. Br J Pharmacol 2020; 177:642-655. [PMID: 31637699 PMCID: PMC7012968 DOI: 10.1111/bph.14880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2019] [Revised: 08/30/2019] [Accepted: 09/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE 17β estradiol (E2) rapidly regulates excitatory synaptic transmission at the classical Schaffer collateral (SC) input to hippocampal CA1 neurons. However, the impact of E2 on excitatory synaptic transmission at the distinct temporoammonic (TA) input to CA1 neurons and the oestrogen receptors involved is less clear. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Extracellular recordings were used to monitor excitatory synaptic transmission in hippocampal slices from juvenile male (P11-24) Sprague Dawley rats. Immunocytochemistry combined with confocal microscopy was used to monitor the surface expression of the AMPA receptor (AMPAR) subunit, GluA1 in hippocampal neurons cultured from neonatal (P0-3) rats. KEY RESULTS Here, we show that E2 induces a novel form of LTP at TA-CA1 synapses, an effect mirrored by the ERα agonist, PPT, and blocked by an ERα antagonist. ERα-induced LTP is NMDA receptor (NMDAR)-dependent and involves a postsynaptic expression mechanism that requires PI 3-kinase signalling and synaptic insertion of GluA2-lacking AMPARs. ERα-induced LTP has overlapping expression mechanisms with classical Hebbian LTP, as HFS-induced LTP occluded PPT-induced LTP and vice versa. In addition, activity-dependent LTP was blocked by the ERα antagonist, suggesting that ERα activation is involved in NMDA-LTP at TA-CA1 synapses. CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS ERα induces a novel form of LTP at juvenile male hippocampal TA-CA1 synapses. As TA-CA1 synapses are implicated in episodic memory processes and are an early target for neurodegeneration, these findings have important implications for the role of oestrogens in CNS health and neurodegenerative disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Leigh Clements
- Division of Systems Medicine, Ninewells Hospital and Medical SchoolUniversity of DundeeDundeeUK
| | - Jenni Harvey
- Division of Systems Medicine, Ninewells Hospital and Medical SchoolUniversity of DundeeDundeeUK
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Finney CA, Shvetcov A, Westbrook RF, Jones NM, Morris MJ. The role of hippocampal estradiol in synaptic plasticity and memory: A systematic review. Front Neuroendocrinol 2020; 56:100818. [PMID: 31843506 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2019.100818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2019] [Revised: 11/29/2019] [Accepted: 12/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
The consolidation of long-term memory is influenced by various neuromodulators. One of these is estradiol, a steroid hormone that is synthesized both in peripheral endocrine tissue and in the brain, including the hippocampus. Here, we examine the evidence regarding the role of estradiol in the hippocampus, specifically, in memory formation and its effects on the molecular mechanisms underlying synaptic plasticity. We conclude that estradiol improves memory consolidation and, thereby, long-term memory. Previous studies have shown that it does this in three, interconnected ways: (1) via functional changes in excitatory activity, (2) signaling changes in calcium dynamics, protein phosphorylation and protein expression, and (3) structural changes to synaptic morphology. Through a functional network analysis of proteins affected by estradiol, we identify potential protein-protein interactions that further support a role for estradiol in modulating synaptic plasticity as well as highlight signaling pathways that may be involved in these changes within the hippocampus.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- C A Finney
- School of Medical Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - A Shvetcov
- School of Psychology, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - R F Westbrook
- School of Psychology, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - N M Jones
- School of Medical Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - M J Morris
- School of Medical Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
The Impact of Estradiol on Neurogenesis and Cognitive Functions in Alzheimer's Disease. Cell Mol Neurobiol 2019; 40:283-299. [PMID: 31502112 DOI: 10.1007/s10571-019-00733-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2019] [Accepted: 08/31/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is described as cognitive and memory impairments with a sex-related epidemiological profile, affecting two times more women than men. There is emerging evidence that alternations in the hippocampal neurogenesis occur at the early stage of AD. Therapies that may effectively slow, stop, or regenerate the dying neurons in AD are being extensively investigated in the last few decades, but none has yet been found to be effective. The regulation of endogenous neurogenesis is one of the main therapeutic targets for AD. Mounting evidence indicates that the neurosteroid estradiol (17β-estradiol) plays a supporting role in neurogenesis, neuronal activity, and synaptic plasticity of AD. This effect may provide preventive and/or therapeutic approaches for AD. In this article, we discuss the molecular mechanism of potential estradiol modulatory action on endogenous neurogenesis, synaptic plasticity, and cognitive function in AD.
Collapse
|
17
|
Chung SW, Thomson CJ, Lee S, Worsley RN, Rogasch NC, Kulkarni J, Thomson RH, Fitzgerald PB, Segrave RA. The influence of endogenous estrogen on high-frequency prefrontal transcranial magnetic stimulation. Brain Stimul 2019; 12:1271-1279. [DOI: 10.1016/j.brs.2019.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2018] [Revised: 04/03/2019] [Accepted: 05/06/2019] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
|
18
|
Mitrović N, Dragić M, Zarić M, Drakulić D, Nedeljković N, Grković I. Estrogen receptors modulate ectonucleotidases activity in hippocampal synaptosomes of male rats. Neurosci Lett 2019; 712:134474. [PMID: 31479724 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2019.134474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2019] [Revised: 08/23/2019] [Accepted: 08/30/2019] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Extracellular adenine nucleotides and nucleosides, such as adenosine-5'-triphosphate (ATP) and adenosine, are among least investigated signaling factors that participate in 17β-estradiol (E2)-mediated synaptic rearrangements in rodent hippocampus. Their levels in the extrasynaptic space are tightly controlled by ecto-nucleoside triphosphate diphosphohydrolases1-3 (NTPDase1-3)/ecto-5'-nucleotidase (eN) enzyme chain. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to get closer insight in the E2-induced decrease in NTPDase and eN activity in the hippocampal synaptic compartment of male rats and to identify estradiol receptors (ERs i.e. ERα, ERβ or GPER1) responsible for the observed effects of E2. In this study we show indiscriminate participation of estradiol receptor α (ERα), -β (ERβ) and G- protein coupled estrogen receptor 1 (GPER1) in the mediation of E2 actions in hippocampal synaptosomes of male rats. Synaptic NTPDase1-3 activities are modulated only through activation of ERβ, while activation of ERα, -β and/or non-classical GPER1 decreases synaptic eN activity. Since both ATP and adenosine function as neuromodulators in the hippocampal networks, influencing its function, profound knowledge of mechanisms by which ectonucleotidases are regulated/modulated is of great importance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nataša Mitrović
- Department of Molecular Biology and Endocrinology, VINČA Institute of Nuclear Sciences, University of Belgrade, Mike Petrovića Alasa 12-14, 11001 Belgrade, Serbia.
| | - Milorad Dragić
- Department for General Physiology and Biophysics, Faculty of Biology, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Studentski trg 3, 11001 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Marina Zarić
- Department of Molecular Biology and Endocrinology, VINČA Institute of Nuclear Sciences, University of Belgrade, Mike Petrovića Alasa 12-14, 11001 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Dunja Drakulić
- Department of Molecular Biology and Endocrinology, VINČA Institute of Nuclear Sciences, University of Belgrade, Mike Petrovića Alasa 12-14, 11001 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Nadežda Nedeljković
- Department for General Physiology and Biophysics, Faculty of Biology, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Studentski trg 3, 11001 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Ivana Grković
- Department of Molecular Biology and Endocrinology, VINČA Institute of Nuclear Sciences, University of Belgrade, Mike Petrovića Alasa 12-14, 11001 Belgrade, Serbia
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Randriamboavonjy V, Kyselova A, Fleming I. Redox Regulation of Calpains: Consequences on Vascular Function. Antioxid Redox Signal 2019; 30:1011-1026. [PMID: 30266074 DOI: 10.1089/ars.2018.7607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
SIGNIFICANCE Calpains (CAPNs) are a family of calcium-activated cysteine proteases. The ubiquitous isoforms CAPN1 and CAPN2 have been involved in the maintenance of vascular integrity, but uncontrolled CAPN activation plays a role in the pathogenesis of vascular diseases. Recent Advances: It is well accepted that chronic and acute overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS) is associated with the development of vascular diseases. There is increasing evidence that ROS can also affect the CAPN activity, suggesting CAPN as a potential link between oxidative stress and vascular disease. CRITICAL ISSUES The physiopathological relevance of ROS in regulating the CAPN activity is not fully understood but seems to involve direct effects on CAPNs, redox modifications of CAPN substrates, as well as indirect effect on CAPNs via changes in Ca2+ levels. Finally, CAPNs can also stimulate ROS production; however, data showing in which context ROS are the causes or the consequences of CAPN activation are missing. FUTURE DIRECTIONS Detailed characterization of the molecular mechanisms underlying the regulation of the different members of the CAPN system by specific ROS would help understanding the pathophysiological role of CAPN in the modulation of the vascular function. Moreover, given that CAPNs have been found in different cellular compartments such as mitochondria and nucleus as well as in the extracellular space, identification of new CAPN targets as well as their functional consequences would add new insights in the function of these enigmatic proteases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Voahanginirina Randriamboavonjy
- 1 Institute for Vascular Signalling, Centre for Molecular Medicine, Goethe University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.,2 German Center of Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Rhein-Main, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Anastasia Kyselova
- 1 Institute for Vascular Signalling, Centre for Molecular Medicine, Goethe University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.,2 German Center of Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Rhein-Main, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Ingrid Fleming
- 1 Institute for Vascular Signalling, Centre for Molecular Medicine, Goethe University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.,2 German Center of Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Rhein-Main, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Blair JA, Bhatta S, Casadesus G. CNS luteinizing hormone receptor activation rescues ovariectomy-related loss of spatial memory and neuronal plasticity. Neurobiol Aging 2019; 78:111-120. [PMID: 30925299 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurobiolaging.2019.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2018] [Revised: 01/31/2019] [Accepted: 02/01/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Ovariectomy (OVX), a menopause model, leads to cognition and neuronal plasticity deficits that are rescued by estrogen administration or downregulation of pituitary luteinizing hormone (LH). LH is present in the brain. However, whether LH levels differ across brain regions, change across reproductive stages, or whether brain-specific LHR signaling play a role in OVX-related cognitive and neuroplasticity losses is completely unknown. To address this, we measured brain LH in cycling and OVX C57Bl/6 across brain regions and determined whether OVX-related functional and plasticity deficits could be rescued by intracerebroventricular administration of the LHR agonist (hCG). Here, we show that while pituitary LH is increased in OVX, brain LH is decreased, primarily in spatial memory and navigation areas. Furthermore, intracerebroventricular hCG delivery after OVX rescued dendritic spine density and spatial memory. In vitro, we show that hCG increased neurite outgrowth in primary hippocampal neurons in a receptor-specific manner. Taken together, our data suggest that loss of brain LH signaling is involved in cognitive and plasticity losses associated with OVX and loss of ovarian hormones.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey A Blair
- Department of Biological Sciences, Kent State University, Kent, OH, USA
| | - Sabina Bhatta
- Department of Biological Sciences, Kent State University, Kent, OH, USA
| | - Gemma Casadesus
- Department of Biological Sciences, Kent State University, Kent, OH, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Latent Sex Differences in Molecular Signaling That Underlies Excitatory Synaptic Potentiation in the Hippocampus. J Neurosci 2018; 39:1552-1565. [PMID: 30578341 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.1897-18.2018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2018] [Revised: 11/27/2018] [Accepted: 12/13/2018] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Excitatory synapses can be potentiated by chemical neuromodulators, including 17β-estradiol (E2), or patterns of synaptic activation, as in long-term potentiation (LTP). Here, we investigated kinases and calcium sources required for acute E2-induced synaptic potentiation in the hippocampus of each sex and tested whether sex differences in kinase signaling extend to LTP. We recorded EPSCs from CA1 pyramidal cells in hippocampal slices from adult rats and used specific inhibitors of kinases and calcium sources. This revealed that, although E2 potentiates synapses to the same degree in each sex, cAMP-activated protein kinase (PKA) is required to initiate potentiation only in females. In contrast, mitogen-activated protein kinase, Src tyrosine kinase, and rho-associated kinase are required for initiation in both sexes; similarly, Ca2+/calmodulin-activated kinase II is required for expression/maintenance of E2-induced potentiation in both sexes. Calcium source experiments showed that L-type calcium channels and calcium release from internal stores are both required for E2-induced potentiation in females, whereas in males, either L-type calcium channel activation or calcium release from stores is sufficient to permit potentiation. To investigate the generalizability of a sex difference in the requirement for PKA in synaptic potentiation, we tested how PKA inhibition affects LTP. This showed that, although the magnitude of both high-frequency stimulation-induced and pairing-induced LTP is the same between sexes, PKA is required for LTP in females but not males. These results demonstrate latent sex differences in mechanisms of synaptic potentiation in which distinct molecular signaling converges to common functional endpoints in males and females.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Chemical- and activity-dependent neuromodulation alters synaptic strength in both male and female brains, yet few studies have compared mechanisms of neuromodulation between the sexes. Here, we studied molecular signaling that underlies estrogen-induced and activity-dependent potentiation of excitatory synapses in the hippocampus. We found that, despite similar magnitude increases in synaptic strength in males and females, the roles of cAMP-regulated protein kinase, internal calcium stores, and L-type calcium channels differ between the sexes. Therefore, latent sex differences in which the same outcome is achieved through distinct underlying mechanisms in males and females include kinase and calcium signaling involved in synaptic potentiation, demonstrating that sex is an important factor in identification of molecular targets for therapeutic development based on mechanisms of neuromodulation.
Collapse
|
22
|
Nongenomic Actions of 17-β Estradiol Restore Respiratory Neuroplasticity in Young Ovariectomized Female Rats. J Neurosci 2017; 37:6648-6660. [PMID: 28592693 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.0433-17.2017] [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: 02/15/2017] [Revised: 04/18/2017] [Accepted: 05/05/2017] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Gonadal steroids modulate CNS plasticity, including phrenic long-term facilitation (pLTF), a form of spinal respiratory neuroplasticity resulting in increased phrenic nerve motor output following exposure to acute intermittent hypoxia (aIH; three 5 min episodes, 10.5% O2). Despite the importance of respiratory system neuroplasticity, and its dependence on estrogen in males, little is known about pLTF expression or mechanisms of estrogen signaling in females. Here, we tested the hypotheses that (1) pLTF expression in young, gonadally intact female rats would be expressed during estrous cycle stages in which 17β-estradiol (E2) is naturally high (e.g., proestrus vs estrus), (2) pLTF would be absent in ovariectomized (OVX) rats and in physiological conditions in which serum progesterone, but not E2, is elevated (e.g., lactating rats, 3-10 d postpartum), and (3) acute E2 administration would be sufficient to restore pLTF in OVX rats. Recordings of phrenic nerve activity in female Sprague Dawley rats (3-4 months) revealed a direct correlation between serum E2 levels and pLTF expression in cycling female rats. pLTF was abolished with OVX, but was re-established by acute E2 replacement (3 h, intraperitoneal). To identify underlying E2 signaling mechanisms, we intrathecally applied BSA-conjugated E2 over the spinal phrenic motor nucleus and found that pLTF expression was restored within 15 min, suggesting nongenomic E2 effects at membrane estrogen receptors. These data are the first to investigate the role of ovarian E2 in young cycling females, and to identify a role for nongenomic estrogen signaling in any form of respiratory system neuroplasticity.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Exposure to acute intermittent hypoxia induces phrenic long-term facilitation (pLTF), a form of spinal respiratory motor plasticity that improves breathing in models of spinal cord injury. Although pathways leading to pLTF are well studied in males and estradiol (E2) is known to be required, it has seldom been investigated in females, and underlying mechanisms of E2 signaling are unknown in either sex. We found that while ovariectomy abolished pLTF, it could be restored by acute systemic E2, or by intraspinal application of the membrane-impermeable E2 (BSA-conjugated E2; 15 min). The ability of nongenomic estrogen signaling within the cervical spinal cord to recover respiratory neuroplasticity in disorders of respiratory insufficiency suggests that membrane estrogen receptors may represent novel therapeutic targets to restore breathing in both sexes.
Collapse
|
23
|
Inhibition of 17-beta-estradiol on neuronal excitability via enhancing GIRK1-mediated inwardly rectifying potassium currents and GIRK1 expression. J Neurol Sci 2017; 375:335-341. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2017.02.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2016] [Revised: 01/24/2017] [Accepted: 02/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
|
24
|
Alexander A, Irving AJ, Harvey J. Emerging roles for the novel estrogen-sensing receptor GPER1 in the CNS. Neuropharmacology 2017; 113:652-660. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2016.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2016] [Revised: 07/01/2016] [Accepted: 07/04/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
|
25
|
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Hormonal contraceptives are used by over 100 million people worldwide. Recently, there has been an emerging interest in studying the potential impact of oral contraceptives (OCs) on certain neurological conditions. It has been suspected for some time that hormonal birth control increases seizure activity in women with epilepsy, but there is little supportive data. Areas covered: Literature from PubMed and online sources was analyzed with respect to hormonal contraception and epilepsy or seizures. New evidence indicates that OCs can cause an increase in seizures in women with epilepsy. The epilepsy birth control registry, which surveyed women with epilepsy, found that those using hormonal contraceptives self-reported 4.5 times more seizures than those that did not use such contraceptives. A preclinical study confirmed these outcomes wherein epileptic animals given ethinyl estradiol, the primary component of OCs, had more frequent seizures that are more likely to be resistant. Expert commentary: OC pills may increase seizures in women with epilepsy and such refractory seizures are more likely to cause neuronal damage in the brain. Thus, women of child bearing age with epilepsy should consider using non-hormonal forms of birth control to avoid risks from OC pills. Additional research into the mechanisms and prospective clinical investigation are needed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Doodipala Samba Reddy
- a Department of Neuroscience and Experimental Therapeutics, College of Medicine , Texas A&M University Health Science Center , Bryan , TX , USA
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Hu P, Liu J, Yasrebi A, Gotthardt JD, Bello NT, Pang ZP, Roepke TA. Gq Protein-Coupled Membrane-Initiated Estrogen Signaling Rapidly Excites Corticotropin-Releasing Hormone Neurons in the Hypothalamic Paraventricular Nucleus in Female Mice. Endocrinology 2016; 157:3604-20. [PMID: 27387482 PMCID: PMC5007888 DOI: 10.1210/en.2016-1191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2016] [Accepted: 07/01/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
CRH neurons in the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus (PVN) play a central role in regulating the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and are directly influenced by 17β-estradiol (E2). Although compelling evidence has suggested the existence of membrane-associated estrogen receptors (mERs) in hypothalamic and other central nervous system neurons, it remains unknown whether E2 impacts CRH neuronal excitability through this mechanism. The purpose of the current study is to examine the existence and function of mER signaling in PVN CRH neurons. Whole-cell recordings were made from CRH neurons identified by Alexa Fluor 594 labeling and post hoc immunostaining in ovariectomized female mice. E2 (100nM) rapidly suppressed the M-current (a voltage-dependent K(+) current) and potentiated glutamatergic excitatory postsynaptic currents. The putative Gq-coupled mER (Gq-mER) characterized in hypothalamic proopiomelanocortin neurons initiates a phospholipase C-protein kinase C-protein kinase A pathway; therefore, we examined the involvement of this pathway using selective inhibitors. Indeed, the ER antagonist ICI 182780 and inhibitors of Gq-phospholipase C-protein kinase C-protein kinase A blocked E2's actions, suggesting dependence on the Gq-mER. Furthermore, STX, a selective ligand for the Gq-mER, mimicked E2's actions. Finally, to examine the in vivo effect of Gq-mER activation, E2 or STX injection increased c-fos expression in CRH neurons in the PVN, suggesting CRH neuronal activation. This corresponded to an increase in plasma corticosterone. We conclude that the Gq-mER plays a critical role in the rapid regulation of CRH neuronal activity and the HPA axis. Our findings provide a potential underlying mechanism for E2's involvement in the pathophysiology of HPA-associated mood disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pu Hu
- Department of Animal Sciences (P.H., A.Y., J.D.G., N.T.B., T.A.R.), School of Environmental and Biological Sciences, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, and Child Health Institute of New Jersey (J.L., Z.P.P.) and Department of Neuroscience and Cell Biology (J.L., Z.P.P.), Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, New Jersey 08901
| | - Ji Liu
- Department of Animal Sciences (P.H., A.Y., J.D.G., N.T.B., T.A.R.), School of Environmental and Biological Sciences, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, and Child Health Institute of New Jersey (J.L., Z.P.P.) and Department of Neuroscience and Cell Biology (J.L., Z.P.P.), Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, New Jersey 08901
| | - Ali Yasrebi
- Department of Animal Sciences (P.H., A.Y., J.D.G., N.T.B., T.A.R.), School of Environmental and Biological Sciences, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, and Child Health Institute of New Jersey (J.L., Z.P.P.) and Department of Neuroscience and Cell Biology (J.L., Z.P.P.), Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, New Jersey 08901
| | - Juliet D Gotthardt
- Department of Animal Sciences (P.H., A.Y., J.D.G., N.T.B., T.A.R.), School of Environmental and Biological Sciences, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, and Child Health Institute of New Jersey (J.L., Z.P.P.) and Department of Neuroscience and Cell Biology (J.L., Z.P.P.), Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, New Jersey 08901
| | - Nicholas T Bello
- Department of Animal Sciences (P.H., A.Y., J.D.G., N.T.B., T.A.R.), School of Environmental and Biological Sciences, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, and Child Health Institute of New Jersey (J.L., Z.P.P.) and Department of Neuroscience and Cell Biology (J.L., Z.P.P.), Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, New Jersey 08901
| | - Zhiping P Pang
- Department of Animal Sciences (P.H., A.Y., J.D.G., N.T.B., T.A.R.), School of Environmental and Biological Sciences, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, and Child Health Institute of New Jersey (J.L., Z.P.P.) and Department of Neuroscience and Cell Biology (J.L., Z.P.P.), Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, New Jersey 08901
| | - Troy A Roepke
- Department of Animal Sciences (P.H., A.Y., J.D.G., N.T.B., T.A.R.), School of Environmental and Biological Sciences, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, and Child Health Institute of New Jersey (J.L., Z.P.P.) and Department of Neuroscience and Cell Biology (J.L., Z.P.P.), Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, New Jersey 08901
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
17β-Estradiol Acutely Potentiates Glutamatergic Synaptic Transmission in the Hippocampus through Distinct Mechanisms in Males and Females. J Neurosci 2016; 36:2677-90. [PMID: 26937008 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.4437-15.2016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 158] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
UNLABELLED Estradiol (E2) acutely potentiates glutamatergic synaptic transmission in the hippocampus of both male and female rats. Here, we investigated whether E2-induced synaptic potentiation occurs via presynaptic and/or postsynaptic mechanisms and which estrogen receptors (ERs) mediate E2's effects in each sex. Whole-cell voltage-clamp recordings of mEPSCs in CA1 pyramidal neurons showed that E2 increases both mEPSC frequency and amplitude within minutes, but often in different cells. This indicated that both presynaptic and postsynaptic mechanisms are involved, but that they occur largely at different synapses. Two-photon (2p) glutamate uncaging at individual dendritic spines showed that E2 increases the amplitude of uncaging-evoked EPSCs (2pEPSCs) and calcium transients (2pCaTs) at a subset of spines on a dendrite, demonstrating synapse specificity of E2's postsynaptic effects. All of these results were essentially the same in males and females. However, additional experiments using ER-selective agonists indicated sex differences in the mechanisms underlying E2-induced potentiation. In males, an ERβ agonist mimicked the postsynaptic effects of E2 to increase mEPSC, 2pEPSC, and 2pCaT amplitude, whereas in females, these effects were mimicked by an agonist of G protein-coupled ER-1. The presynaptic effect of E2, increased mEPSC frequency, was mimicked by an ERα agonist in males, whereas in females, an ERβ agonist increased mEPSC frequency. Thus, E2 acutely potentiates glutamatergic synapses similarly in both sexes, but distinct ER subtypes mediate the presynaptic and postsynaptic aspects of potentiation in each sex. This indicates a latent sex difference in which different molecular mechanisms converge to the same functional endpoint in males versus females. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Some sex differences in the brain may be latent differences, in which the same functional endpoint is achieved through distinct underlying mechanisms in males versus females. Here we report a latent sex difference in molecular regulation of excitatory synapses in the hippocampus. The steroid 17β-estradiol is known to acutely potentiate glutamatergic synaptic transmission in both sexes. We find that this occurs through a combination of increased presynaptic glutamate release probability and increased postsynaptic sensitivity to glutamate in both sexes, but that distinct estrogen receptor subtypes underlie each aspect of potentiation in each sex. These results indicate that therapeutics targeting a specific estrogen receptor subtype or its downstream signaling would likely affect synaptic transmission differently in the hippocampus of each sex.
Collapse
|
28
|
L-Type Calcium Channels Modulation by Estradiol. Mol Neurobiol 2016; 54:4996-5007. [PMID: 27525676 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-016-0045-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2016] [Accepted: 08/08/2016] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Voltage-gated calcium channels are key regulators of brain function, and their dysfunction has been associated with multiple conditions and neurodegenerative diseases because they couple membrane depolarization to the influx of calcium-and other processes such as gene expression-in excitable cells. L-type calcium channels, one of the three major classes and probably the best characterized of the voltage-gated calcium channels, act as an essential calcium binding proteins with a significant biological relevance. It is well known that estradiol can activate rapidly brain signaling pathways and modulatory/regulatory proteins through non-genomic (or non-transcriptional) mechanisms, which lead to an increase of intracellular calcium that activate multiple kinases and signaling cascades, in the same way as L-type calcium channels responses. In this context, estrogens-L-type calcium channels signaling raises intracellular calcium levels and activates the same signaling cascades in the brain probably through estrogen receptor-independent modulatory mechanisms. In this review, we discuss the available literature on this area, which seems to suggest that estradiol exerts dual effects/modulation on these channels in a concentration-dependent manner (as a potentiator of these channels in pM concentrations and as an inhibitor in nM concentrations). Indeed, estradiol may orchestrate multiple neurotrophic responses, which open a new avenue for the development of novel estrogen-based therapies to alleviate different neuropathologies. We also highlight that it is essential to determine through computational and/or experimental approaches the interaction between estradiol and L-type calcium channels to assist these developments, which is an interesting area of research that deserves a closer look in future biomedical research.
Collapse
|
29
|
Abstract
Although calpain was proposed to participate in synaptic plasticity and learning and memory more than 30 years ago, the mechanisms underlying its activation and the roles of different substrates have remained elusive. Recent findings have provided evidence that the two major calpain isoforms in the brain, calpain-1 and calpain-2, play opposite functions in synaptic plasticity. In particular, while calpain-1 activation is the initial trigger for certain forms of synaptic plasticity, that is, long-term potentiation, calpain-2 activation restricts the extent of plasticity. Moreover, while calpain-1 rapidly cleaves regulatory and cytoskeletal proteins, calpain-2-mediated stimulation of local protein synthesis reestablishes protein homeostasis. These findings have important implications for our understanding of learning and memory and disorders associated with impairment in these processes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Victor Briz
- 1 KU Leuven, Center for Human Genetics and Leuven Institute for Neuroscience and Disease, Leuven, Belgium
- 2 VIB Center for the Biology of Disease, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Michel Baudry
- 3 Graduate College of Biomedical Sciences, Western University of Health Sciences, Pomona, CA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Abstract
UNLABELLED A decline in estradiol (E2)-mediated cognitive benefits denotes a critical window for the therapeutic effects of E2, but the mechanism for closing of the critical window is unknown. We hypothesized that upregulating the expression of estrogen receptor α (ERα) or estrogen receptor β (ERβ) in the hippocampus of aged animals would restore the therapeutic potential of E2 treatments and rejuvenate E2-induced hippocampal plasticity. Female rats (15 months) were ovariectomized, and, 14 weeks later, adeno-associated viral vectors were used to express ERα, ERβ, or green fluorescent protein (GFP) in the CA1 region of the dorsal hippocampus. Animals were subsequently treated for 5 weeks with cyclic injections of 17β-estradiol-3-benzoate (EB, 10 μg) or oil vehicle. Spatial memory was examined 48 h after EB/oil treatment. EB treatment in the GFP (GFP + EB) and ERβ (ERβ + EB) groups failed to improve episodic spatial memory relative to oil-treated animals, indicating closing of the critical window. Expression of ERβ failed to improve cognition and was associated with a modest learning impairment. Cognitive benefits were specific to animals expressing ERα that received EB treatment (ERα + EB), such that memory was improved relative to ERα + oil and GFP + EB. Similarly, ERα + EB animals exhibited enhanced NMDAR-mediated synaptic transmission compared with the ERα + oil and GFP + EB groups. This is the first demonstration that the window for E2-mediated benefits on cognition and hippocampal E2 responsiveness can be reinstated by increased expression of ERα. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Estradiol is neuroprotective, promotes synaptic plasticity in the hippocampus, and protects against cognitive decline associated with aging and neurodegenerative diseases. However, animal models and clinical studies indicate a critical window for the therapeutic treatment such that the beneficial effects are lost with advanced age and/or with extended hormone deprivation. We used gene therapy to upregulate expression of the estrogen receptors ERα and ERβ and demonstrate that the window for estradiol's beneficial effects on memory and hippocampal synaptic function can be reinstated by enhancing the expression of ERα. Our findings suggest that the activity of ERα controls the therapeutic window by regulating synaptic plasticity mechanisms involved in memory.
Collapse
|
31
|
Sato SM, Woolley CS. Acute inhibition of neurosteroid estrogen synthesis suppresses status epilepticus in an animal model. eLife 2016; 5. [PMID: 27083045 PMCID: PMC4862752 DOI: 10.7554/elife.12917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2015] [Accepted: 04/11/2016] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Status epilepticus (SE) is a common neurological emergency for which new treatments are needed. In vitro studies suggest a novel approach to controlling seizures in SE: acute inhibition of estrogen synthesis in the brain. Here, we show in rats that systemic administration of an aromatase (estrogen synthase) inhibitor after seizure onset strongly suppresses both electrographic and behavioral seizures induced by kainic acid (KA). We found that KA-induced SE stimulates synthesis of estradiol (E2) in the hippocampus, a brain region commonly involved in seizures and where E2 is known to acutely promote neural activity. Hippocampal E2 levels were higher in rats experiencing more severe seizures. Consistent with a seizure-promoting effect of hippocampal estrogen synthesis, intra-hippocampal aromatase inhibition also suppressed seizures. These results reveal neurosteroid estrogen synthesis as a previously unknown factor in the escalation of seizures and suggest that acute administration of aromatase inhibitors may be an effective treatment for SE. DOI:http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.12917.001 Seizures occur when connected groups of cells in the brain become over-active and fire together. Current anti-seizure medications work by reducing brain activity generally. Although this is often effective in controlling seizures, it can also lead to negative side effects like drowsiness, dizziness or difficulty concentrating. A better alternative would be to target a factor that promotes activity especially during seizures. Most people think of estrogens as being female sex hormones. However, estrogens are also made in the brain of both sexes, where they could promote activity during seizures. Sato and Woolley therefore set out to test a two-part hypothesis: that seizures stimulate the production of estrogen in the brain, and that inhibiting this production process just as seizures begin would make seizures less severe. Sato and Woolley studied male and female rats and found that in both sexes, seizures stimulate the production of estrogens in the hippocampus – a part of the brain that is often involved in seizures. Because estrogens are known to increase the activity of cells in the hippocampus, this suggested that estrogens that are produced in the brain during seizures could make seizures worse. Sato and Woolley tested this by injecting rats with a drug that inhibits estrogen production, called an aromatase inhibitor, shortly after seizures began. The drug strongly suppressed seizures, whereas control rats that did not receive the injection continued to have seizures. Overall, Sato and Woolley show that the production of estrogen in the brain escalates seizure activity, and suggest that aromatase inhibitors may be useful for controlling seizures. Several questions remain that require further study. How does seizure activity lead to estrogen being made in the brain? How do estrogen levels go back down after a seizure? What circumstances other than seizures stimulate brain estrogen production, and what roles does this production process play in activity that is not related to seizures? DOI:http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.12917.002
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Satoru M Sato
- Department of Neurobiology, Northwestern University, Evanston, United States
| | - Catherine S Woolley
- Department of Neurobiology, Northwestern University, Evanston, United States
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Calpain-1 and Calpain-2: The Yin and Yang of Synaptic Plasticity and Neurodegeneration. Trends Neurosci 2016; 39:235-245. [PMID: 26874794 DOI: 10.1016/j.tins.2016.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 166] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2015] [Revised: 01/20/2016] [Accepted: 01/21/2016] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Many signaling pathways participate in both synaptic plasticity and neuronal degeneration. While calpains participate in these phenomena, very few studies have evaluated the respective roles of the two major calpain isoforms in the brain, calpain-1 and calpain-2. We review recent studies indicating that calpain-1 and calpain-2 exhibit opposite functions in both synaptic plasticity and neurodegeneration. Calpain-1 activation is required for the induction of long-term potentiation (LTP) and is generally neuroprotective, while calpain-2 activation limits the extent of potentiation and is neurodegenerative. This duality of functions is related to their associations with different PDZ-binding proteins, resulting in differential subcellular localization, and offers new therapeutic opportunities for a number of indications in which these proteases have previously been implicated.
Collapse
|
33
|
Seizure facilitating activity of the oral contraceptive ethinyl estradiol. Epilepsy Res 2016; 121:29-32. [PMID: 26874323 DOI: 10.1016/j.eplepsyres.2016.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2015] [Revised: 12/31/2015] [Accepted: 01/24/2016] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Contraceptive management is critical in women with epilepsy. Although oral contraceptives (OCs) are widely used by many women with epilepsy, little is known about their impact on epileptic seizures and epileptogenesis. Ethinyl estradiol (EE) is the primary component of OC pills. In this study, we investigated the pharmacological effect of EE on epileptogenesis and kindled seizures in female mice using the hippocampus kindling model. Animals were stimulated daily with or without EE until generalized stage 5 seizures were elicited. EE treatment significantly accelerated the rate of epileptogenesis. In acute studies, EE caused a significant decrease in the afterdischarge threshold and increased the incidence and severity of seizures in fully-kindled mice. In chronic studies, EE treatment caused a greater susceptibility to kindled seizures. Collectively, these results are consistent with moderate proconvulsant-like activity of EE. Such excitatory effects may affect seizure risk in women with epilepsy taking OC pills.
Collapse
|
34
|
Briz V, Liu Y, Zhu G, Bi X, Baudry M. A novel form of synaptic plasticity in field CA3 of hippocampus requires GPER1 activation and BDNF release. J Cell Biol 2015; 210:1225-37. [PMID: 26391661 PMCID: PMC4586750 DOI: 10.1083/jcb.201504092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2015] [Accepted: 08/19/2015] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Estrogen gates metabotropic glutamate receptor–dependent long-term depression at mossy fiber–CA3 synapses through a mechanism involving GPER1-mediated BDNF release, mTOR-dependent protein synthesis, and proteasome activity. Estrogen is an important modulator of hippocampal synaptic plasticity and memory consolidation through its rapid action on membrane-associated receptors. Here, we found that both estradiol and the G-protein–coupled estrogen receptor 1 (GPER1) specific agonist G1 rapidly induce brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) release, leading to transient stimulation of activity-regulated cytoskeleton-associated (Arc) protein translation and GluA1-containing AMPA receptor internalization in field CA3 of hippocampus. We also show that type-I metabotropic glutamate receptor (mGluR) activation does not induce Arc translation nor long-term depression (LTD) at the mossy fiber pathway, as opposed to its effects in CA1, and it only triggers LTD after GPER1 stimulation. Furthermore, this form of mGluR-dependent LTD is associated with ubiquitination and proteasome-mediated degradation of GluA1, and is prevented by proteasome inhibition. Overall, our study identifies a novel mechanism by which estrogen and BDNF regulate hippocampal synaptic plasticity in the adult brain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Victor Briz
- Graduate College of Biomedical Sciences, Western University of Health Sciences, Pomona, CA 91766 VIB Center for the Biology of Disease, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Yan Liu
- Graduate College of Biomedical Sciences, Western University of Health Sciences, Pomona, CA 91766 College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific, Western University of Health Sciences, Pomona, CA 91766
| | - Guoqi Zhu
- Graduate College of Biomedical Sciences, Western University of Health Sciences, Pomona, CA 91766 Key Laboratory of Xin'an Medicine, Ministry of Education, Anhui University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hefei 230038, China
| | - Xiaoning Bi
- College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific, Western University of Health Sciences, Pomona, CA 91766
| | - Michel Baudry
- Graduate College of Biomedical Sciences, Western University of Health Sciences, Pomona, CA 91766
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Carrier N, Saland SK, Duclot F, He H, Mercer R, Kabbaj M. The Anxiolytic and Antidepressant-like Effects of Testosterone and Estrogen in Gonadectomized Male Rats. Biol Psychiatry 2015; 78:259-69. [PMID: 25683735 PMCID: PMC4501899 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2014.12.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2014] [Revised: 12/03/2014] [Accepted: 12/19/2014] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND While the influence of testosterone levels on vulnerability to affective disorders is not straightforward, research suggests this hormone may confer some degree of resiliency in men. We recently demonstrated a role for the dentate gyrus in mediating testosterone's protective effects on depressive-like behavior in gonadectomized male rats. Here, testosterone may exert its effects through androgen receptor-mediated mechanisms or via local aromatization to estradiol. METHODS Gonadectomized male rats were implanted with a placebo, testosterone, or estradiol pellet, and subsequent protective anxiolytic- and antidepressant-like effects of testosterone and its aromatized metabolite, estradiol, were then investigated in the open field and sucrose preference tests, respectively. Moreover, their influence on gene expression in the hippocampus was analyzed by genome-wide complementary DNA microarray analysis. Finally, the contribution of testosterone's aromatization within the dentate gyrus was assessed by local infusion of the aromatase inhibitor fadrozole, whose efficacy was confirmed by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. RESULTS Both hormones had antidepressant-like effects associated with a substantial overlap in transcriptional regulation, particularly in synaptic plasticity- and mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway-related genes. Further, chronic aromatase inhibition within the dentate gyrus blocked the protective effects of testosterone. CONCLUSIONS Both testosterone and estradiol exhibit anxiolytic- and antidepressant-like effects in gonadectomized male rats, while similarly regulating critical mediators of these behaviors, suggesting common underlying mechanisms. Accordingly, we demonstrated that testosterone's protective effects are mediated, in part, by its aromatization in the dentate gyrus. These findings thus provide further insight into a role for estradiol in mediating the protective anxiolytic- and antidepressant-like effects of testosterone.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Mohamed Kabbaj
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Program in Neurosciences.
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Zhang Y, Huang Y, Liu X, Wang G, Wang X, Wang Y. Estrogen suppresses epileptiform activity by enhancing Kv4.2-mediated transient outward potassium currents in primary hippocampal neurons. Int J Mol Med 2015; 36:865-72. [PMID: 26179130 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2015.2287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2015] [Accepted: 07/08/2015] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Catamenial epilepsy is a common phenomenon in female epileptic patients that is, in part, influenced by the 17-β-estradiol level during the menstrual cycle, which modulates the strength of the epileptic seizures. However, the underlying mechanism(s) for catamenial epilepsy remains unknown. In the present study, the effect of 17‑β‑estradiol on modulating epileptiform activities was investigated in cultured hippocampal neurons by focusing on the transient outward potassium current. Using the patch clamp technique, 17‑β‑estradiol was demonstrated to have a dose‑dependent U‑shape effect on epileptiform bursting activities in cultured hippocampal neurons; only the low dose (~0.1 ng/ml) of 17‑β‑estradiol had a suppressive effect on the epileptiform activities. The blockade effect of the low dose 17‑β‑estradiol could be suppressed by phrixotoxin2 (PaTx2), a selective channel blocker for voltage‑gated potassium channel type 4.2 (Kv4.2), which mediates the transient outward potassium current. Furthermore, the 17‑β‑estradiol bell‑shape‑like dose‑dependently enhanced the transient outward potassium current, which was inhibited by the estrogen receptor antagonist ICI 182,780. In conclusion, these results indicate that reduced activation of the transient outward potassium current by a high (or none) 17‑β‑estradiol level may enhance the epileptiform bursting activities in neurons, which may be one of the triggering causes for catamenial epilepsy, and therefore, maintaining a certain low 17‑β‑estradiol level may aid in the control of catamenial epilepsy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuwen Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Zhongshan Hospital, Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science and State Key Laboratory for Medical Neurobiology, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, P.R. China
| | - Yian Huang
- Department of Neurology, Zhongshan Hospital, Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science and State Key Laboratory for Medical Neurobiology, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, P.R. China
| | - Xu Liu
- Department of Neurology, Zhongshan Hospital, Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science and State Key Laboratory for Medical Neurobiology, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, P.R. China
| | - Guoxiang Wang
- Department of Neurology, Zhongshan Hospital, Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science and State Key Laboratory for Medical Neurobiology, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, P.R. China
| | - Xin Wang
- Department of Neurology, Zhongshan Hospital, Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science and State Key Laboratory for Medical Neurobiology, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, P.R. China
| | - Yun Wang
- Department of Neurology, Zhongshan Hospital, Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science and State Key Laboratory for Medical Neurobiology, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
|
38
|
Kumar A, Bean LA, Rani A, Jackson T, Foster TC. Contribution of estrogen receptor subtypes, ERα, ERβ, and GPER1 in rapid estradiol-mediated enhancement of hippocampal synaptic transmission in mice. Hippocampus 2015; 25:1556-66. [PMID: 25980457 DOI: 10.1002/hipo.22475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/11/2015] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Estradiol rapidly modulates hippocampal synaptic plasticity and synaptic transmission; however, the contribution of the various estrogen receptors to rapid changes in synaptic function is unclear. This study examined the effect of estrogen receptor selective agonists on hippocampal synaptic transmission in slices obtained from 3-5-month-old wild type (WT), estrogen receptor alpha (ERαKO), and beta (ERβKO) knockout female ovariectomized mice. Hippocampal slices were prepared 10-16 days following ovariectomy and extracellular excitatory postsynaptic field potentials were recorded from CA3-CA1 synaptic contacts before and following application of 17β-estradiol-3-benzoate (EB, 100 pM), the G-protein estrogen receptor 1 (GPER1) agonist G1 (100 nM), the ERα selective agonist propyl pyrazole triol (PPT, 100 nM), or the ERβ selective agonist diarylpropionitrile (DPN, 1 µM). Across all groups, EB and G1 increased the synaptic response to a similar extent. Furthermore, prior G1 application occluded the EB-mediated enhancement of the synaptic response and the GPER1 antagonist, G15 (100 nM), inhibited the enhancement of the synaptic response induced by EB application. We confirmed that the ERα and ERβ selective agonists (PPT and DPN) had effects on synaptic responses specific to animals that expressed the relevant receptor; however, PPT and DPN produced only a small increase in synaptic transmission relative to EB or the GPER1 agonist. We demonstrate that the increase in synaptic transmission is blocked by inhibition of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) activity. Furthermore, EB was able to increase ERK activity regardless of genotype. These results suggest that ERK activation and enhancement of synaptic transmission by EB involves multiple estrogen receptor subtypes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ashok Kumar
- Department of Neuroscience, McKnight Brain Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
| | - Linda A Bean
- Department of Neuroscience, McKnight Brain Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
| | - Asha Rani
- Department of Neuroscience, McKnight Brain Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
| | - Travis Jackson
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Thomas C Foster
- Department of Neuroscience, McKnight Brain Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Zhang R, Zhao H, Dong H, Zou F, Cai S. 1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D₃ counteracts the effects of cigarette smoke in airway epithelial cells. Cell Immunol 2015; 295:137-43. [PMID: 25880105 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellimm.2015.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2014] [Revised: 02/18/2015] [Accepted: 03/13/2015] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Cigarette smoke extracts (CSE) alter calpain-1 expression via ERK signaling pathway in bronchial epithelial cells. 1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 (1,25D3) inhibits cigarette smoke-induced epithelial barrier disruption. This study was aimed to explore whether the 1,25D3 counteracted the CSE effects in a human bronchial epithelial cell line (16HBE). In particular, transepithelial electrical resistance (TER) and permeability, expression and distribution of E-cadherin and β-catenin, calpain-1 expression, and ERK phosphorylation were assessed in the CSE-stimulated 16HBE cells. The CSE induced the ERK phosphorylation, improved the calpain-1 expression, increased the distribution anomalies and the cleaving of E-cadherin and β-catenin, and resulted in the TER reduction and the permeability increase. The 1,25D3 reduced these pathological changes. The 1,25D3 mediated effects were associated with a reduced ERK phosphorylation. In conclusion, the present study provides compelling evidences that the 1,25D3 may be considered a possible valid therapeutic option in controlling the cigarette smoke-induced epithelial barrier disruption.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ruhui Zhang
- Department of Respiratory, Chronic Airways Diseases Laboratory, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Haijin Zhao
- Department of Respiratory, Chronic Airways Diseases Laboratory, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Hangming Dong
- Department of Respiratory, Chronic Airways Diseases Laboratory, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Fei Zou
- School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Shaoxi Cai
- Department of Respiratory, Chronic Airways Diseases Laboratory, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China.
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Tozzi A, de Iure A, Tantucci M, Durante V, Quiroga-Varela A, Giampà C, Di Mauro M, Mazzocchetti P, Costa C, Di Filippo M, Grassi S, Pettorossi VE, Calabresi P. Endogenous 17β-estradiol is required for activity-dependent long-term potentiation in the striatum: interaction with the dopaminergic system. Front Cell Neurosci 2015; 9:192. [PMID: 26074768 PMCID: PMC4445326 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2015.00192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2015] [Accepted: 04/30/2015] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
17β-estradiol (E2), a neurosteroid synthesized by P450-aromatase (ARO), modulates various brain functions. We characterized the role of the locally synthesized E2 on striatal long-term synaptic plasticity and explored possible interactions between E2 receptors (ERs) and dopamine (DA) receptors in the dorsal striatum of adult male rats. Inhibition of E2 synthesis or antagonism of ERs prevented the induction of long-term potentiation (LTP) in both medium spiny neurons (MSNs) and cholinergic interneurons (ChIs). Activation of a D1-like DA receptor/cAMP/PKA-dependent pathway restored LTP. In MSNs exogenous E2 reversed the effect of ARO inhibition. Also antagonism of M1 muscarinic receptors prevented the D1-like receptor-mediated restoration of LTP confirming a role for ChIs in controlling the E2-mediated LTP of MSNs. A novel striatal interaction, occurring between ERs and D1-like receptors in both MSNs and ChIs, might be critical to regulate basal ganglia physiology and to compensate synaptic alterations in Parkinson’s disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Tozzi
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Section of Physiology and Biochemistry, University of Perugia Perugia, Italy ; Fondazione Santa Lucia, IRCCS Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio de Iure
- Clinica Neurologica, Dipartimento di Medicina, Università degli Studi di Perugia, Ospedale Santa Maria della Misericordia Perugia, Italy
| | - Michela Tantucci
- Clinica Neurologica, Dipartimento di Medicina, Università degli Studi di Perugia, Ospedale Santa Maria della Misericordia Perugia, Italy
| | - Valentina Durante
- Clinica Neurologica, Dipartimento di Medicina, Università degli Studi di Perugia, Ospedale Santa Maria della Misericordia Perugia, Italy
| | - Ana Quiroga-Varela
- Clinica Neurologica, Dipartimento di Medicina, Università degli Studi di Perugia, Ospedale Santa Maria della Misericordia Perugia, Italy
| | | | - Michela Di Mauro
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Section of Physiology and Biochemistry, University of Perugia Perugia, Italy
| | - Petra Mazzocchetti
- Clinica Neurologica, Dipartimento di Medicina, Università degli Studi di Perugia, Ospedale Santa Maria della Misericordia Perugia, Italy
| | - Cinzia Costa
- Clinica Neurologica, Dipartimento di Medicina, Università degli Studi di Perugia, Ospedale Santa Maria della Misericordia Perugia, Italy
| | - Massimiliano Di Filippo
- Clinica Neurologica, Dipartimento di Medicina, Università degli Studi di Perugia, Ospedale Santa Maria della Misericordia Perugia, Italy
| | - Silvarosa Grassi
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Section of Physiology and Biochemistry, University of Perugia Perugia, Italy
| | - Vito Enrico Pettorossi
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Section of Physiology and Biochemistry, University of Perugia Perugia, Italy
| | - Paolo Calabresi
- Fondazione Santa Lucia, IRCCS Rome, Italy ; Clinica Neurologica, Dipartimento di Medicina, Università degli Studi di Perugia, Ospedale Santa Maria della Misericordia Perugia, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Blaesse P, Schmidt T. K-Cl cotransporter KCC2--a moonlighting protein in excitatory and inhibitory synapse development and function. Pflugers Arch 2015; 467:615-24. [PMID: 24909111 DOI: 10.1007/s00424-014-1547-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2014] [Revised: 05/23/2014] [Accepted: 05/26/2014] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
The K-Cl cotransporter KCC2 has two entirely independent biological actions as either an ion transporter or a structural protein orchestrating the organization of the cytoskeleton in neuronal structures. The K-Cl cotransport by KCC2 is central for hyperpolarizing inhibitory signaling, which is based on chloride currents mediated by γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA)- or glycine-gated receptor channels. In contrast, the structural role of KCC2 seems to be crucially involved in the maturation and regulation of excitatory glutamatergic synapses. This dual role at GABAergic/glycinergic and glutamatergic synapses makes KCC2 a key molecule in the regulation of inhibitory and excitatory signaling. Therefore, KCC2 is most likely involved in the synchronization of the two types of activity during network formation in the immature system and a similar synchronizing role might also be important under physiological and pathological conditions in mature neuronal networks. In this review, we explore new findings on the regulation of KCC2 by protease-mediated cleavage and on the structural role of KCC2 in spine morphogenesis and glutamate receptor clustering. We then discuss the implications of the putative interaction between the independent functions of the transporter and overlapping regulatory mechanisms in a neurophysiological context. In addition, we look at the multifunctional properties of KCC2 in the light of evolution and propose that KCC2 belongs to the group of moonlighting (multifunctional) proteins.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Peter Blaesse
- Institute of Physiology I (Neurophysiology), Westfälische Wilhelms-University Münster, Robert-Koch-Strasse 27a, 48149, Münster, Germany,
| | | |
Collapse
|
42
|
Increased coupling of caveolin-1 and estrogen receptor α contributes to the fragile X syndrome. Ann Neurol 2015; 77:618-36. [DOI: 10.1002/ana.24358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2014] [Revised: 01/04/2015] [Accepted: 01/14/2015] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
|
43
|
Sellers K, Raval P, Srivastava DP. Molecular signature of rapid estrogen regulation of synaptic connectivity and cognition. Front Neuroendocrinol 2015; 36:72-89. [PMID: 25159586 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2014.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2014] [Revised: 08/11/2014] [Accepted: 08/14/2014] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
There is now a growing appreciation that estrogens are capable of rapidly activating a number of signaling cascades within the central nervous system. In addition, there are an increasing number of studies reporting that 17β-estradiol, the major biologically active estrogen, can modulate cognition within a rapid time frame. Here we review recent studies that have begun to uncover the molecular and cellular framework which contributes to estrogens ability to rapidly modulate cognition. We first describe the mechanisms by which estrogen receptors (ERs) can couple to intracellular signaling cascades, either directly, or via the transactivation of other receptors. Subsequently, we review the evidence that estrogen can rapidly modulate both neuronal function and structure in the hippocampus and the cortex. Finally, we will discuss how estrogens may influence cognitive function through the modulation of neuronal structure, and the implications this may have on the treatment of a range of brain disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katherine Sellers
- Department of Basic and Clinical Neuroscience, The James Black Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London SE5 9NU, UK
| | - Pooja Raval
- Department of Basic and Clinical Neuroscience, The James Black Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London SE5 9NU, UK
| | - Deepak P Srivastava
- Department of Basic and Clinical Neuroscience, The James Black Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London SE5 9NU, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Multiple cellular cascades participate in long-term potentiation and in hippocampus-dependent learning. Brain Res 2014; 1621:73-81. [PMID: 25482663 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2014.11.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2014] [Accepted: 11/15/2014] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Since its discovery by Bliss and Lomo, the phenomenon of long-term potentiation (LTP) has been extensively studied, as it was viewed as a potential cellular mechanism of learning and memory. Over the years, many signaling cascades have been implicated in its induction, consolidation and maintenance, raising questions regarding its real significance. Here, we review several of the most commonly studie signaling cascades and discuss how they converge on a common set of mechanisms likely to be involved in the maintenance of LTP. We further argue that the existence of cross-talks between these different signaling cascades can not only account for several discrepancies in the literature, but also account for the existence of different forms of LTP, which can be engaged by different types of stimulus parameters under different experimental conditions. Finally, we discuss how the understanding of the diversity of LTP mechanisms can help us understand the diversity of the types of learning and memory. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled SI: Brain and Memory.
Collapse
|
45
|
Atwi S, McMahon D, Scharfman H, MacLusky NJ. Androgen Modulation of Hippocampal Structure and Function. Neuroscientist 2014; 22:46-60. [PMID: 25416742 DOI: 10.1177/1073858414558065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Androgens have profound effects on hippocampal structure and function, including induction of spines and spine synapses on the dendrites of CA1 pyramidal neurons, as well as alterations in long-term synaptic plasticity (LTP) and hippocampally dependent cognitive behaviors. How these effects occur remains largely unknown. Emerging evidence, however, suggests that one of the key elements in the response mechanism may be modulation of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in the mossy fiber (MF) system. In male rats, orchidectomy increases synaptic transmission and excitability in the MF pathway. Testosterone reverses these effects, suggesting that testosterone exerts tonic suppression on MF BDNF levels. These findings suggest that changes in hippocampal function resulting from declining androgen levels may reflect the outcome of responses mediated through normally balanced, but opposing, mechanisms: loss of androgen effects on the hippocampal circuitry may be compensated, at least in part, by an increase in BDNF-dependent MF plasticity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Atwi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Dallan McMahon
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Helen Scharfman
- The Nathan Kline Institute for Psychiatric Research, Orangeburg, NY, USA Department of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, Physiology & Neuroscience, and Psychiatry, New York University Langone Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Neil J MacLusky
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Zyskind JW, Wang Y, Cho G, Ting JH, Kolson DL, Lynch DR, Jordan-Sciutto KL. E2F1 in neurons is cleaved by calpain in an NMDA receptor-dependent manner in a model of HIV-induced neurotoxicity. J Neurochem 2014; 132:742-55. [PMID: 25279448 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.12956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2014] [Accepted: 09/18/2014] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The transcription factor E2F1 activates gene targets required for G1 -S phase progression and for apoptosis, and exhibits increased expression levels in neurons in several CNS diseases including HIV encephalitis, Alzheimer disease, and Parkinson's Disease. While E2F1 is known to regulate cell viability through activation of caspases, here we present evidence supporting the involvement of E2F1 in N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptor-dependent, HIV-induced neuronal death mediated by calpains. Using an in vitro model of HIV-induced neurotoxicity that is dependent on NMDA receptor and calpain activation, we have shown that cortical neurons lacking functional E2F1 are less susceptible to neuronal death. In addition, we report that neuronal E2F1 is cleaved by calpain to a stable 55-kiloDalton fragment following NR2B-dependent NMDA receptor stimulation. This cleavage of E2F1 is protein conformation-dependent and involves at least two cleavage events, one at each terminus of the protein. Intriguingly, the stabilized E2F1 cleavage product is produced in post-mitotic neurons of all ages, but fails to be stabilized in cycling cells. Finally, we show that a matching E2F1 cleavage product is produced in human fetal neurons, suggesting that calpain cleavage of E2F1 may be produced in human cortical tissue. These results suggest neuronal E2F1 is processed in a novel manner in response to NMDA receptor-mediated toxicity, a mechanism implicated in HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders pathogenesis as well as several other diseases of the CNS. After crossing the blood-brain barrier, HIV-infected monocytes differentiate into macrophages and release excitotoxins and inflammatory factors including glutamate into the brain parenchyma (1). These factors stimulate neuronal N-Methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptors (2), causing calcium influx (3) and subsequent activation of the cysteine protease calpain (4). Activated calpain cleaves multiple substrates including E2F1, producing a stabilized protein fragment with truncations at the N- and C-terminus (5). Calpain-cleaved E2F1 may contribute to calpain-mediated neuronal damage observed in NMDA receptor-mediated neurotoxicity (6).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jacob W Zyskind
- Department of Pathology, School of Dental Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
47
|
Colli-Dula RC, Martyniuk CJ, Kroll KJ, Prucha MS, Kozuch M, Barber DS, Denslow ND. Dietary exposure of 17-alpha ethinylestradiol modulates physiological endpoints and gene signaling pathways in female largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides). AQUATIC TOXICOLOGY (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2014; 156:148-60. [PMID: 25203422 PMCID: PMC4252624 DOI: 10.1016/j.aquatox.2014.08.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2014] [Revised: 08/19/2014] [Accepted: 08/20/2014] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
17Alpha-ethinylestradiol (EE2), used for birth control in humans, is a potent estrogen that is found in wastewater at low concentrations (ng/l). EE2 has the ability to interfere with the endocrine system of fish, affecting reproduction which can result in population level effects. The objective of this study was to determine if dietary exposure to EE2 would alter gene expression patterns and key pathways in the liver and ovary and whether these could be associated with reproductive endpoints in female largemouth bass during egg development. Female LMB received 70ng EE2/g feed (administered at 1% of body weight) for 60 days. EE2 dietary exposure significantly reduced plasma vitellogenin concentrations by 70%. Hepatosomatic and gonadosomatic indices were also decreased with EE2 feeding by 38.5% and 40%, respectively. Transcriptomic profiling revealed that there were more changes in steady state mRNA levels in the liver compared to the ovary. Genes associated with reproduction were differentially expressed, such as vitellogenin in the liver and aromatase in the gonad. In addition, a set of genes related with oxidative stress (e.g. glutathione reductase and glutathione peroxidase) were identified as altered in the liver and genes associated with the immune system (e.g. complement component 1, and macrophage-inducible C-type lectin) were altered in the gonad. In a follow-up study with 0.2ng EE2/g feed for 60 days, similar phenotypic and gene expression changes were observed that support these findings with the higher concentrations. This study provides new insights into how dietary exposure to EE2 interferes with endocrine signaling pathways in female LMB during a critical period of reproductive oogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Reyna-Cristina Colli-Dula
- Department of Physiological Sciences and Center for Environmental and Human Toxicology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, United States
| | - Christopher J Martyniuk
- Department of Physiological Sciences and Center for Environmental and Human Toxicology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, United States
| | - Kevin J Kroll
- Department of Physiological Sciences and Center for Environmental and Human Toxicology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, United States
| | - Melinda S Prucha
- Department of Physiological Sciences and Center for Environmental and Human Toxicology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, United States
| | - Marianne Kozuch
- Department of Physiological Sciences and Center for Environmental and Human Toxicology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, United States
| | - David S Barber
- Department of Physiological Sciences and Center for Environmental and Human Toxicology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, United States
| | - Nancy D Denslow
- Department of Physiological Sciences and Center for Environmental and Human Toxicology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Borsook D, Erpelding N, Lebel A, Linnman C, Veggeberg R, Grant PE, Buettner C, Becerra L, Burstein R. Sex and the migraine brain. Neurobiol Dis 2014; 68:200-14. [PMID: 24662368 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2014.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2014] [Revised: 03/05/2014] [Accepted: 03/13/2014] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The brain responds differently to environmental and internal signals that relate to the stage of development of neural systems. While genetic and epigenetic factors contribute to a premorbid state, hormonal fluctuations in women may alter the set point of migraine. The cyclic surges of gonadal hormones may directly alter neuronal, glial and astrocyte function throughout the brain. Estrogen is mainly excitatory and progesterone inhibitory on brain neuronal systems. These changes contribute to the allostatic load of the migraine condition that most notably starts at puberty in girls.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- D Borsook
- Boston Children's Hospital P.A.I.N. Group, Boston Children's Hospital, USA; Massachusestts General Hospital, Boston Children's Hospital, USA; Harvard Medical School, USA.
| | - N Erpelding
- Boston Children's Hospital P.A.I.N. Group, Boston Children's Hospital, USA; Harvard Medical School, USA
| | - A Lebel
- Boston Children's Hospital P.A.I.N. Group, Boston Children's Hospital, USA; Headache Clinic, Boston Children's Hospital, USA; Harvard Medical School, USA
| | - C Linnman
- Boston Children's Hospital P.A.I.N. Group, Boston Children's Hospital, USA; Massachusestts General Hospital, Boston Children's Hospital, USA; Harvard Medical School, USA
| | - R Veggeberg
- Boston Children's Hospital P.A.I.N. Group, Boston Children's Hospital, USA; Harvard Medical School, USA
| | - P E Grant
- Fetal-Neonatal Neuroimaging and Developmental Science Center (FNNDSC), Boston Children's Hospital, USA; Harvard Medical School, USA
| | - C Buettner
- Division of General Medicine and Primary Care, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, USA; Department of Anesthesia and Critical Care, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, USA; Harvard Medical School, USA
| | - L Becerra
- Boston Children's Hospital P.A.I.N. Group, Boston Children's Hospital, USA; Massachusestts General Hospital, Boston Children's Hospital, USA; Harvard Medical School, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
49
|
Wang GS, Huang YG, Li H, Bi SJ, Zhao JL. ERK/CANP rapid signaling mediates 17β-estradiol-induced proliferation of human breast cancer cell line MCF-7 cells. Int J Clin Exp Med 2014; 7:156-162. [PMID: 24482702 PMCID: PMC3902254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2013] [Accepted: 11/21/2013] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE 17β-estradiol (E2) exerts its functions through both genomic and non-genomic signaling pathways. Because E2 is important in breast cancer development, we investigated whether its actions in promoting breast cancer cell proliferation occur through the non-genomic signaling pathway via extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2)/calcium-activated neutral protease (CANP). METHODS MCF-7 breast cancer cells were treated with ERKl/2 inhibitor (PD98059) or CANP inhibitor (calpeptin) before exposure to 1×10(-8) M E2. MTT colorimetry and flow cytometry were used to analyze effects on cell proliferation and cell cycle progression, respectively. Expression of phosphorylated-ERK (p-ERK), total ERK, and Capn4 proteins were assessed by Western blotting. RESULTS Cell proliferation increased in cells treated with E2 for 24 h (P<0.05), and the proportion of cells in G0/G1 was decreased, accompanied by accelerated G1/S. Calpeptin pre-treatment significantly inhibited the E2-induced proliferation of MCF-7 cells (P<0.05), while also ameliorating the effects of E2 on cell cycle progression. Further, expression of p-ERK was rapidly up-regulated (after 10 min) by E2 (P<0.05), an effect that persisted 16 h after E2 exposure but which was significantly inhibited by PD98059 (P<0.05). CONCLUSIONS Finally, expression of Capn4 protein was rapidly up-regulated in E2-exposed cells (P<0.05), but this change was significantly inhibited by PD98059 or calpeptin (P<0.05) pre-treatment. Thus, the rapid, non-genomic ERK/CANP signaling pathway mediates E2-induced proliferation of human breast cancer cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Guo-Sheng Wang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University23 Youzheng Str, Nangang District, Harbin 150001, Heilongjiang Province, P. R. China
| | - Yan-Gang Huang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University23 Youzheng Str, Nangang District, Harbin 150001, Heilongjiang Province, P. R. China
| | - Huan Li
- School of Medicine, Shenzhen UniversityNanhai Ave 3688, Shenzhen 518060, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Shi-Jie Bi
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University23 Youzheng Str, Nangang District, Harbin 150001, Heilongjiang Province, P. R. China
| | - Jin-Long Zhao
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University23 Youzheng Str, Nangang District, Harbin 150001, Heilongjiang Province, P. R. China
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Briz V, Baudry M. Estrogen Regulates Protein Synthesis and Actin Polymerization in Hippocampal Neurons through Different Molecular Mechanisms. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2014; 5:22. [PMID: 24611062 PMCID: PMC3933789 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2014.00022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2013] [Accepted: 02/13/2014] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Estrogen rapidly modulates hippocampal synaptic plasticity by activating selective membrane-associated receptors. Reorganization of the actin cytoskeleton and stimulation of mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR)-mediated protein synthesis are two major events required for the consolidation of hippocampal long-term potentiation and memory. Estradiol regulates synaptic plasticity by interacting with both processes, but the underlying molecular mechanisms are not yet fully understood. Here, we used acute rat hippocampal slices to analyze the mechanisms underlying rapid changes in mTOR activity and actin polymerization elicited by estradiol. Estradiol-induced mTOR phosphorylation was preceded by rapid and transient activation of both extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) and protein kinase B (Akt) and by phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) degradation. These effects were prevented by calpain and ERK inhibitors. Estradiol-induced mTOR stimulation did not require activation of classical estrogen receptors (ER), as specific ERα and ERβ agonists (PPT and DPN, respectively) failed to mimic this effect, and ER antagonists could not block it. Estradiol rapidly activated both RhoA and p21-activated kinase (PAK). Furthermore, a specific inhibitor of RhoA kinase (ROCK), H1152, and a potent and specific PAK inhibitor, PF-3758309, blocked estradiol-induced cofilin phosphorylation and actin polymerization. ER antagonists also blocked these effects of estrogen. Consistently, both PPT and DPN stimulated PAK and cofilin phosphorylation as well as actin polymerization. Finally, the effects of estradiol on actin polymerization were insensitive to protein synthesis inhibitors, but its stimulation of mTOR activity was impaired by latrunculin A, a drug that disrupts actin filaments. Taken together, our results indicate that estradiol regulates local protein synthesis and cytoskeletal reorganization via different molecular mechanisms and signaling pathways.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Victor Briz
- Graduate College of Biomedical Sciences, Western University of Health Sciences, Pomona, CA, USA
| | - Michel Baudry
- Graduate College of Biomedical Sciences, Western University of Health Sciences, Pomona, CA, USA
- *Correspondence: Michel Baudry, Graduate College of Biomedical Sciences, Western University of Health Sciences, NSC, Room 102C, 309 E. 2nd Street, Pomona, CA 91766-1854, USA e-mail:
| |
Collapse
|