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Reising JP, Gonzalez-Sanchez AC, Samara A, Herlenius E. Astrocytic Calcium Signaling Toolkit (astroCaST): efficient analysis of dynamic astrocytic calcium events. Front Cell Neurosci 2024; 18:1408607. [PMID: 38915875 PMCID: PMC11195029 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2024.1408607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 06/26/2024] Open
Abstract
The Astrocytic Calcium Signaling Toolkit (astroCaST) is a novel solution to a longstanding challenge in neuroscience research: the specialized analysis of astrocytic calcium events within fluorescence time-series imaging. Distinct from existing neuron-centric tools, astroCaST is adept at detecting and clustering astrocytic calcium events based on their unique spatiotemporal characteristics, thus filling a gap in astrocytic research methodologies. This toolkit not only facilitates the detection of such events but also extends its utility to provide comprehensive end-to-end analysis. This feature is absent in most tools targeting astrocytic activity. AstroCaST's development was motivated by the critical need for dedicated software that supports researchers in transitioning from raw video data to insightful experimental conclusions, efficiently managing large-scale datasets without compromising computational speed. It offers a user-friendly interface that caters to both novice and expert users, incorporating both a graphical user interface (GUI) for detailed explorations and a command-line interface (CLI) for extensive analyses. Expected outcomes from utilizing astroCaST include the ability to process and analyze a significantly larger volume of data. This enables a more profound and comprehensive analysis than previously possible, addressing the demands of large-scale astrocytic studies. In summary, astroCaST aims to advance astrocytic calcium imaging analysis, offering a tailored, efficient, and comprehensive toolset that enhances our understanding of astrocytic functions and their implications in neuroscience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Philipp Reising
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinksa Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Astrid Lindgren Children's Hospital, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Ana Cristina Gonzalez-Sanchez
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinksa Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Astrid Lindgren Children's Hospital, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Athina Samara
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinksa Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Astrid Lindgren Children's Hospital, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Biomaterials, FUTURE, Center for Functional Tissue Reconstruction, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Eric Herlenius
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinksa Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Astrid Lindgren Children's Hospital, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
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2
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Herwerth M, Wyss MT, Schmid NB, Condrau J, Ravotto L, Mateos Melero JM, Kaech A, Bredell G, Thomas C, Stadelmann C, Misgeld T, Bennett JL, Saab AS, Jessberger S, Weber B. Astrocytes adopt a progenitor-like migratory strategy for regeneration in adult brain. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.05.18.594292. [PMID: 38798654 PMCID: PMC11118580 DOI: 10.1101/2024.05.18.594292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Mature astrocytes become activated upon non-specific tissue damage and contribute to glial scar formation. Proliferation and migration of adult reactive astrocytes after injury is considered very limited. However, the regenerative behavior of individual astrocytes following selective astroglial loss, as seen in astrocytopathies, such as neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder, remains unexplored. Here, we performed longitudinal in vivo imaging of cortical astrocytes after focal astrocyte ablation in mice. We discovered that perilesional astrocytes develop a remarkable plasticity for efficient lesion repopulation. A subset of mature astrocytes transforms into reactive progenitor-like (REPL) astrocytes that not only undergo multiple asymmetric divisions but also remain in a multinucleated interstage. This regenerative response facilitates efficient migration of newly formed daughter cell nuclei towards unoccupied astrocyte territories. Our findings define the cellular principles of astrocyte plasticity upon focal lesion, unravelling the REPL phenotype as a fundamental regenerative strategy of mature astrocytes to restore astrocytic networks in the adult mammalian brain. Promoting this regenerative phenotype bears therapeutic potential for neurological conditions involving glial dysfunction.
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3
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Linne ML. Computational modeling of neuron-glia signaling interactions to unravel cellular and neural circuit functioning. Curr Opin Neurobiol 2024; 85:102838. [PMID: 38310660 DOI: 10.1016/j.conb.2023.102838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2023] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 02/06/2024]
Abstract
Glial cells have been shown to be vital for various brain functions, including homeostasis, information processing, and cognition. Over the past 30 years, various signaling interactions between neuronal and glial cells have been shown to underlie these functions. This review summarizes the interactions, particularly between neurons and astrocytes, which are types of glial cells. Some of the interactions remain controversial in part due to the nature of experimental methods and preparations used. Based on the accumulated data, computational models of the neuron-astrocyte interactions have been developed to explain the complex functions of astrocytes in neural circuits and to test conflicting hypotheses. This review presents the most significant recent models, modeling methods and simulation tools for neuron-astrocyte interactions. In the future, we will especially need more experimental research on awake animals in vivo and new computational models of neuron-glia interactions to advance our understanding of cellular dynamics and the functioning of neural circuits in different brain regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marja-Leena Linne
- Tampere University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere, Finland.
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4
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Cui X, Wang J, Xue S, Qin Z, Peng CK. Quantifying the accuracy of inter-beat intervals acquired from consumer-grade photoplethysmography wristbands using an electrocardiogram-aided information-based similarity approach. Physiol Meas 2024; 45:035002. [PMID: 38387061 DOI: 10.1088/1361-6579/ad2c14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
Objective. Although inter-beat intervals (IBI) and the derived heart rate variability (HRV) can be acquired through consumer-grade photoplethysmography (PPG) wristbands and have been applied in a variety of physiological and psychophysiological conditions, their accuracy is still unsatisfactory.Approach.In this study, 30 healthy participants concurrently wore two wristbands (E4 and Honor 5) and a gold-standard electrocardiogram (ECG) device under four conditions: resting, deep breathing with a frequency of 0.17 Hz and 0.1 Hz, and mental stress tasks. To quantitatively validate the accuracy of IBI acquired from PPG wristbands, this study proposed to apply an information-based similarity (IBS) approach to quantify the pattern similarity of the underlying dynamical temporal structures embedded in IBI time series simultaneously recorded using PPG wristbands and the ECG system. The occurrence frequency of basic patterns and their rankings were analyzed to calculate the IBS distance from gold-standard IBI, and to further calculate the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of the wristband IBI time series.Main results.The accuracies of both HRV and mental state classification were not satisfactory due to the low SNR in the wristband IBI. However, by rejecting data segments of SNR < 25, the Pearson correlation coefficients between the wristbands' HRV and the gold-standard HRV were increased from 0.542 ± 0.235 to 0.922 ± 0.120 for E4 and from 0.596 ± 0.227 to 0.859 ± 0.145 for Honor 5. The average accuracy of four-class mental state classification increased from 77.3% to 81.9% for E4 and from 79.3% to 83.3% for Honor 5.Significance.Consumer-grade PPG wristbands are acceptable for HR and HRV monitoring when removing low SNR segments. The proposed method can be applied for quantifying the accuracies of IBI and HRV indices acquired via any non-ECG system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xingran Cui
- School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
- Center for Nonlinear Dynamics in Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Jing Wang
- School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Shan Xue
- School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Zeguang Qin
- School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Chung-Kang Peng
- School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
- Center for Nonlinear Dynamics in Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
- Center for Dynamical Biomarkers, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center/Harvard Medical School, Boston, United States of America
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5
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Renden RB, Institoris A, Sharma K, Tran CHT. Modulatory effects of noradrenergic and serotonergic signaling pathway on neurovascular coupling. Commun Biol 2024; 7:287. [PMID: 38459113 PMCID: PMC10923894 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-024-05996-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Dynamic changes in astrocyte Ca2+ are recognized as contributors to functional hyperemia, a critical response to increased neuronal activity mediated by a process known as neurovascular coupling (NVC). Although the critical role of glutamatergic signaling in this process has been extensively investigated, the impact of behavioral state, and the release of behavior-associated neurotransmitters, such as norepinephrine and serotonin, on astrocyte Ca2+ dynamics and functional hyperemia have received less attention. We used two-photon imaging of the barrel cortex in awake mice to examine the role of noradrenergic and serotonergic projections in NVC. We found that both neurotransmitters facilitated sensory stimulation-induced increases in astrocyte Ca2+. Interestingly, while ablation of serotonergic neurons reduced sensory stimulation-induced functional hyperemia, ablation of noradrenergic neurons caused both attenuation and potentiation of functional hyperemia. Our study demonstrates that norepinephrine and serotonin are involved in modulating sensory stimulation-induced astrocyte Ca2+ elevations and identifies their differential effects in regulating functional hyperemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert B Renden
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, School of Medicine, University of Nevada Reno, Reno, NV, USA
| | - Adam Institoris
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Kushal Sharma
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, School of Medicine, University of Nevada Reno, Reno, NV, USA
| | - Cam Ha T Tran
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, School of Medicine, University of Nevada Reno, Reno, NV, USA.
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6
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Ahmadpour N, Kantroo M, Stobart MJ, Meza-Resillas J, Shabanipour S, Parra-Nuñez J, Salamovska T, Muzaleva A, O'Hara F, Erickson D, Di Gaetano B, Carrion-Falgarona S, Weber B, Lamont A, Lavine NE, Kauppinen TM, Jackson MF, Stobart JL. Cortical astrocyte N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors influence whisker barrel activity and sensory discrimination in mice. Nat Commun 2024; 15:1571. [PMID: 38383567 PMCID: PMC10882001 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-45989-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Astrocytes express ionotropic receptors, including N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors (NMDARs). However, the contribution of NMDARs to astrocyte-neuron interactions, particularly in vivo, has not been elucidated. Here we show that a knockdown approach to selectively reduce NMDARs in mouse cortical astrocytes decreases astrocyte Ca2+ transients evoked by sensory stimulation. Astrocyte NMDAR knockdown also impairs nearby neuronal circuits by elevating spontaneous neuron activity and limiting neuronal recruitment, synchronization, and adaptation during sensory stimulation. Furthermore, this compromises the optimal processing of sensory information since the sensory acuity of the mice is reduced during a whisker-dependent tactile discrimination task. Lastly, we rescue the effects of astrocyte NMDAR knockdown on neurons and improve the tactile acuity of the animal by supplying exogenous ATP. Overall, our findings show that astrocytes can respond to nearby neuronal activity via their NMDAR, and that these receptors are an important component for purinergic signaling that regulate astrocyte-neuron interactions and cortical sensory discrimination in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Meher Kantroo
- College of Pharmacy, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Anna Muzaleva
- College of Pharmacy, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Finnegan O'Hara
- College of Pharmacy, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Dustin Erickson
- College of Pharmacy, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Bruno Di Gaetano
- College of Pharmacy, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | | | - Bruno Weber
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Alana Lamont
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
- PrairieNeuro Research Center, Health Sciences Center, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Natalie E Lavine
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
- PrairieNeuro Research Center, Health Sciences Center, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Tiina M Kauppinen
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
- PrairieNeuro Research Center, Health Sciences Center, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Michael F Jackson
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
- PrairieNeuro Research Center, Health Sciences Center, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Jillian L Stobart
- College of Pharmacy, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada.
- Centre on Aging, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada.
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7
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Ozawa K, Nagao M, Konno A, Iwai Y, Vittani M, Kusk P, Mishima T, Hirai H, Nedergaard M, Hirase H. Astrocytic GPCR-Induced Ca 2+ Signaling Is Not Causally Related to Local Cerebral Blood Flow Changes. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:13590. [PMID: 37686396 PMCID: PMC10487464 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241713590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2023] [Revised: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 08/27/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Activation of Gq-type G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) gives rise to large cytosolic Ca2+ elevations in astrocytes. Previous in vitro and in vivo studies have indicated that astrocytic Ca2+ elevations are closely associated with diameter changes in the nearby blood vessels, which astrocytes enwrap with their endfeet. However, the causal relationship between astrocytic Ca2+ elevations and blood vessel diameter changes has been questioned, as mice with diminished astrocytic Ca2+ signaling show normal sensory hyperemia. We addressed this controversy by imaging cortical vasculature while optogenetically elevating astrocyte Ca2+ in a novel transgenic mouse line, expressing Opto-Gq-type GPCR Optoα1AR (Astro-Optoα1AR) in astrocytes. Blue light illumination on the surface of the somatosensory cortex induced Ca2+ elevations in cortical astrocytes and their endfeet in mice under anesthesia. Blood vessel diameter did not change significantly with Optoα1AR-induced Ca2+ elevations in astrocytes, while it was increased by forelimb stimulation. Next, we labeled blood plasma with red fluorescence using AAV8-P3-Alb-mScarlet in Astro-Optoα1AR mice. We were able to identify arterioles that display diameter changes in superficial areas of the somatosensory cortex through the thinned skull. Photo-stimulation of astrocytes in the cortical area did not result in noticeable changes in the arteriole diameters compared with their background strain C57BL/6. Together, compelling evidence for astrocytic Gq pathway-induced vasodiameter changes was not observed. Our results support the notion that short-term (<10 s) hyperemia is not mediated by GPCR-induced astrocytic Ca2+ signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katsuya Ozawa
- Laboratory for Neuron-Glia Circuitry, RIKEN Center for Brain Science, Wako 351-0106, Saitama, Japan; (K.O.)
| | - Masaki Nagao
- Center for Translational Neuromedicine, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 1172 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ayumu Konno
- Department of Neurophysiology and Neural Repair, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Maebashi 371-8511, Gunma, Japan
- Viral Vector Core, Gunma University, Initiative for Advanced Research, Maebashi 371-8511, Gunma, Japan
| | - Youichi Iwai
- Laboratory for Neuron-Glia Circuitry, RIKEN Center for Brain Science, Wako 351-0106, Saitama, Japan; (K.O.)
| | - Marta Vittani
- Center for Translational Neuromedicine, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 1172 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Peter Kusk
- Center for Translational Neuromedicine, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 1172 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Tsuneko Mishima
- Center for Translational Neuromedicine, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 1172 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Hirokazu Hirai
- Department of Neurophysiology and Neural Repair, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Maebashi 371-8511, Gunma, Japan
- Viral Vector Core, Gunma University, Initiative for Advanced Research, Maebashi 371-8511, Gunma, Japan
| | - Maiken Nedergaard
- Center for Translational Neuromedicine, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 1172 Copenhagen, Denmark
- Center for Translational Neuromedicine, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY 14642, USA
| | - Hajime Hirase
- Center for Translational Neuromedicine, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 1172 Copenhagen, Denmark
- Center for Translational Neuromedicine, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY 14642, USA
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8
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Brandt JP, Smith CJ. Piezo1-mediated spontaneous calcium transients in satellite glia impact dorsal root ganglia development. PLoS Biol 2023; 21:e3002319. [PMID: 37747915 PMCID: PMC10564127 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pbio.3002319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2023] [Revised: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Spontaneous Ca2+ transients of neural cells is a hallmark of the developing nervous system. It is widely accepted that chemical signals, like neurotransmitters, contribute to spontaneous Ca2+ transients in the nervous system. Here, we reveal an additional mechanism of spontaneous Ca2+ transients that is mechanosensitive in the peripheral nervous system (PNS) using intravital imaging of growing dorsal root ganglia (DRG) in zebrafish embryos. GCaMP6s imaging shows that developing DRG satellite glia contain distinct spontaneous Ca2+ transients, classified into simultaneous, isolated, and microdomains. Longitudinal analysis over days in development demonstrates that as DRG satellite glia become more synchronized, isolated Ca2+ transients remain constant. Using a chemical screen, we identify that Ca2+ transients in DRG glia are dependent on mechanical properties, which we confirmed using an experimental application of mechanical force. We find that isolated spontaneous Ca2+ transients of the glia during development is altered by manipulation of mechanosensitive protein Piezo1, which is expressed in the developing ganglia. In contrast, simultaneous Ca2+ transients of DRG satellite glia is not Piezo1-mediated, thus demonstrating that distinct mechanisms mediate subtypes of spontaneous Ca2+ transients. Activating Piezo1 eventually impacts the cell abundance of DRG cells and behaviors that are driven by DRG neurons. Together, our results reveal mechanistically distinct subtypes of Ca2+ transients in satellite glia and introduce mechanobiology as a critical component of spontaneous Ca2+ transients in the developing PNS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob P. Brandt
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana, United States of America
- The Center for Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana, United States of America
| | - Cody J. Smith
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana, United States of America
- The Center for Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana, United States of America
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9
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Prokhorenko MA, Smyth JT. Astrocyte store-operated calcium entry is required for centrally mediated neuropathic pain. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.06.08.544231. [PMID: 37333230 PMCID: PMC10274864 DOI: 10.1101/2023.06.08.544231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/20/2023]
Abstract
Central sensitization is a critical step in chronic neuropathic pain formation following acute nerve injury. Central sensitization is defined by nociceptive and somatosensory circuitry changes in the spinal cord leading to dysfunction of antinociceptive gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)ergic cells (Li et al., 2019), amplification of ascending nociceptive signals, and hypersensitivity (Woolf, 2011). Astrocytes are key mediators of the neurocircuitry changes that underlie central sensitization and neuropathic pain, and astrocytes respond to and regulate neuronal function through complex Ca2+ signaling mechanisms. Clear definition of the astrocyte Ca2+ signaling mechanisms involved in central sensitization may lead to new therapeutic targets for treatment of chronic neuropathic pain, as well as enhance our understanding of the complex central nervous system (CNS) adaptions that occur following nerve injury. Ca2+ release from astrocyte endoplasmic reticulum (ER) Ca2+ stores via the inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor (IP3R) is required for centrally mediated neuropathic pain (Kim et al, 2016); however recent evidence suggests the involvement of additional astrocyte Ca2+ signaling mechanisms. We therefore investigated the role of astrocyte store-operated Ca2+ entry (SOCE), which mediates Ca2+ influx in response to ER Ca2+ store depletion. Using an adult Drosophila melanogaster model of central sensitization based on thermal allodynia in response to leg amputation nerve injury (Khuong et al., 2019), we show that astrocytes exhibit SOCE-dependent Ca2+ signaling events three to four days following nerve injury. Astrocyte-specific suppression of Stim and Orai, the key mediators of SOCE Ca2+ influx, completely inhibited the development of thermal allodynia seven days following injury, and also inhibited the loss of ventral nerve cord (VNC) GABAergic neurons that is required for central sensitization in flies. We lastly show that constitutive SOCE in astrocytes results in thermal allodynia even in the absence of nerve injury. Our results collectively demonstrate that astrocyte SOCE is necessary and sufficient for central sensitization and development of hypersensitivity in Drosophila, adding key new understanding to the astrocyte Ca2+ signaling mechanisms involved in chronic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariya A. Prokhorenko
- Neuroscience Graduate Program and Genetics, F. Edward Hébert School of Medicine, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD
| | - Jeremy T. Smyth
- Neuroscience Graduate Program and Genetics, F. Edward Hébert School of Medicine, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology, and Genetics, F. Edward Hébert School of Medicine, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD
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10
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Fedotova A, Brazhe A, Doronin M, Toptunov D, Pryazhnikov E, Khiroug L, Verkhratsky A, Semyanov A. Dissociation Between Neuronal and Astrocytic Calcium Activity in Response to Locomotion in Mice. FUNCTION 2023; 4:zqad019. [PMID: 37342415 PMCID: PMC10278990 DOI: 10.1093/function/zqad019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2023] [Revised: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Locomotion triggers a coordinated response of both neurons and astrocytes in the brain. Here we performed calcium (Ca2+) imaging of these two cell types in the somatosensory cortex in head-fixed mice moving on the airlifted platform. Ca2+ activity in astrocytes significantly increased during locomotion from a low quiescence level. Ca2+ signals first appeared in the distal processes and then propagated to astrocytic somata, where it became significantly larger and exhibited oscillatory behaviour. Thus, astrocytic soma operates as both integrator and amplifier of Ca2+ signal. In neurons, Ca2+ activity was pronounced in quiescent periods and further increased during locomotion. Neuronal Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) rose almost immediately following the onset of locomotion, whereas astrocytic Ca2+ signals lagged by several seconds. Such a long lag suggests that astrocytic [Ca2+]i elevations are unlikely to be triggered by the activity of synapses among local neurons. Ca2+ responses to pairs of consecutive episodes of locomotion did not significantly differ in neurons, while were significantly diminished in response to the second locomotion in astrocytes. Such astrocytic refractoriness may arise from distinct mechanisms underlying Ca2+ signal generation. In neurons, the bulk of Ca2+ enters through the Ca2+ channels in the plasma membrane allowing for steady-level Ca2+ elevations in repetitive runs. Astrocytic Ca2+ responses originate from the intracellular stores, the depletion of which affects subsequent Ca2+ signals. Functionally, neuronal Ca2+ response reflects sensory input processed by neurons. Astrocytic Ca2+ dynamics is likely to provide metabolic and homeostatic support within the brain active milieu.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Fedotova
- Faculty of Biology, Moscow State University, Moscow 119991, Russia
- Department of Molecular Neurobiology, Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry RAS, Moscow 117997, Russia
| | - Alexey Brazhe
- Faculty of Biology, Moscow State University, Moscow 119991, Russia
- Department of Molecular Neurobiology, Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry RAS, Moscow 117997, Russia
| | - Maxim Doronin
- Department of Molecular Neurobiology, Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry RAS, Moscow 117997, Russia
- College of Medicine, Jiaxing University, Jiaxing, Zhejiang Province, 314001, China
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11
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Manninen T, Aćimović J, Linne ML. Analysis of Network Models with Neuron-Astrocyte Interactions. Neuroinformatics 2023; 21:375-406. [PMID: 36959372 PMCID: PMC10085960 DOI: 10.1007/s12021-023-09622-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/25/2023]
Abstract
Neural networks, composed of many neurons and governed by complex interactions between them, are a widely accepted formalism for modeling and exploring global dynamics and emergent properties in brain systems. In the past decades, experimental evidence of computationally relevant neuron-astrocyte interactions, as well as the astrocytic modulation of global neural dynamics, have accumulated. These findings motivated advances in computational glioscience and inspired several models integrating mechanisms of neuron-astrocyte interactions into the standard neural network formalism. These models were developed to study, for example, synchronization, information transfer, synaptic plasticity, and hyperexcitability, as well as classification tasks and hardware implementations. We here focus on network models of at least two neurons interacting bidirectionally with at least two astrocytes that include explicitly modeled astrocytic calcium dynamics. In this study, we analyze the evolution of these models and the biophysical, biochemical, cellular, and network mechanisms used to construct them. Based on our analysis, we propose how to systematically describe and categorize interaction schemes between cells in neuron-astrocyte networks. We additionally study the models in view of the existing experimental data and present future perspectives. Our analysis is an important first step towards understanding astrocytic contribution to brain functions. However, more advances are needed to collect comprehensive data about astrocyte morphology and physiology in vivo and to better integrate them in data-driven computational models. Broadening the discussion about theoretical approaches and expanding the computational tools is necessary to better understand astrocytes' roles in brain functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiina Manninen
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Korkeakoulunkatu 3, FI-33720, Tampere, Finland.
| | - Jugoslava Aćimović
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Korkeakoulunkatu 3, FI-33720, Tampere, Finland
| | - Marja-Leena Linne
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Korkeakoulunkatu 3, FI-33720, Tampere, Finland.
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12
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Todorova V, Stauffacher MF, Ravotto L, Nötzli S, Karademir D, Ebner LJA, Imsand C, Merolla L, Hauck SM, Samardzija M, Saab AS, Barros LF, Weber B, Grimm C. Deficits in mitochondrial TCA cycle and OXPHOS precede rod photoreceptor degeneration during chronic HIF activation. Mol Neurodegener 2023; 18:15. [PMID: 36882871 PMCID: PMC9990367 DOI: 10.1186/s13024-023-00602-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2022] [Accepted: 02/03/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Major retinal degenerative diseases, including age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy and retinal detachment, are associated with a local decrease in oxygen availability causing the formation of hypoxic areas affecting the photoreceptor (PR) cells. Here, we addressed the underlying pathological mechanisms of PR degeneration by focusing on energy metabolism during chronic activation of hypoxia-inducible factors (HIFs) in rod PR. METHODS We used two-photon laser scanning microscopy (TPLSM) of genetically encoded biosensors delivered by adeno-associated viruses (AAV) to determine lactate and glucose dynamics in PR and inner retinal cells. Retinal layer-specific proteomics, in situ enzymatic assays and immunofluorescence studies were used to analyse mitochondrial metabolism in rod PRs during chronic HIF activation. RESULTS PRs exhibited remarkably higher glycolytic flux through the hexokinases than neurons of the inner retina. Chronic HIF activation in rods did not cause overt change in glucose dynamics but an increase in lactate production nonetheless. Furthermore, dysregulation of the oxidative phosphorylation pathway (OXPHOS) and tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle in rods with an activated hypoxic response decelerated cellular anabolism causing shortening of rod photoreceptor outer segments (OS) before onset of cell degeneration. Interestingly, rods with deficient OXPHOS but an intact TCA cycle did not exhibit these early signs of anabolic dysregulation and showed a slower course of degeneration. CONCLUSION Together, these data indicate an exceeding high glycolytic flux in rods and highlight the importance of mitochondrial metabolism and especially of the TCA cycle for PR survival in conditions of increased HIF activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vyara Todorova
- Laboratory for Retinal Cell Biology, Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Wagistrasse 14, 8952, Schlieren, Switzerland
| | - Mia Fee Stauffacher
- Laboratory for Retinal Cell Biology, Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Wagistrasse 14, 8952, Schlieren, Switzerland
| | - Luca Ravotto
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology and Neuroscience Center Zurich, University and ETH Zurich, Winterthurerstr. 190, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Sarah Nötzli
- Laboratory for Retinal Cell Biology, Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Wagistrasse 14, 8952, Schlieren, Switzerland
| | - Duygu Karademir
- Laboratory for Retinal Cell Biology, Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Wagistrasse 14, 8952, Schlieren, Switzerland
| | - Lynn J A Ebner
- Laboratory for Retinal Cell Biology, Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Wagistrasse 14, 8952, Schlieren, Switzerland
| | - Cornelia Imsand
- Laboratory for Retinal Cell Biology, Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Wagistrasse 14, 8952, Schlieren, Switzerland
| | - Luca Merolla
- Laboratory for Retinal Cell Biology, Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Wagistrasse 14, 8952, Schlieren, Switzerland
| | - Stefanie M Hauck
- Metabolomics and Proteomics Core, Helmholtz Zentrum München, German Research Center for Environmental Health (GmbH), Ingolstädter Landstraße 1, 85764, Munich, Germany
| | - Marijana Samardzija
- Laboratory for Retinal Cell Biology, Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Wagistrasse 14, 8952, Schlieren, Switzerland
| | - Aiman S Saab
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology and Neuroscience Center Zurich, University and ETH Zurich, Winterthurerstr. 190, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - L Felipe Barros
- Centro de Estudios Científicos (CECs), Valdivia, Chile.,Universidad San Sebastián, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Bruno Weber
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology and Neuroscience Center Zurich, University and ETH Zurich, Winterthurerstr. 190, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Christian Grimm
- Laboratory for Retinal Cell Biology, Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Wagistrasse 14, 8952, Schlieren, Switzerland.
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13
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Stulczewski D, Zgorzynska E, Dziedzic B, Wieczorek-Szukala K, Szafraniec K, Walczewska A. EPA stronger than DHA increases the mitochondrial membrane potential and cardiolipin levels but does not change the ATP level in astrocytes. Exp Cell Res 2023; 424:113491. [PMID: 36708860 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2023.113491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2022] [Revised: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 01/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Astrocytes are highly energy-consuming glial cells critical for metabolic support to neurons. A growing body of evidence suggests that mitochondrial dysfunction in astrocytes is involved in age-related neurodegenerative disorders and that fish oil, rich in docosahexaenoic (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic (EPA) fatty acids, may alleviate cognition impairment in Parkinson's and Alzheimer's diseases. The present study examines the effect of DHA and EPA on mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), apoptosis activation and ATP levels in astrocytes cultured in medium containing glucose or galactose, which limits oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS). MMP, expressed as the ratio of red to green JC-10 and MitoTracker fluorescence, increased in EPA-incubated cells in a dose dependent manner and was higher than in DHA-incubated astrocytes, also after uncoupling of OXPHOS by carbonyl cyanide 3-chlorophenylhydrazone (CCCP). In cells cultured in glucose and galactose medium mitochondrial hyperpolarization had no impact on intracellular ATP level. Furthermore, both EPA and DHA elevated mitochondrial cardiolipin content, however only EPA did so in a dose-dependent manner and reduced apoptosis which was analyzed by flow cytometry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dawid Stulczewski
- Department of Cell-to-Cell Communication, Medical University of Lodz, Mazowiecka 6/8, 92-215, Lodz, Poland
| | - Emilia Zgorzynska
- Department of Cell-to-Cell Communication, Medical University of Lodz, Mazowiecka 6/8, 92-215, Lodz, Poland.
| | - Barbara Dziedzic
- Department of Cell-to-Cell Communication, Medical University of Lodz, Mazowiecka 6/8, 92-215, Lodz, Poland
| | | | - Kacper Szafraniec
- Department of Cell-to-Cell Communication, Medical University of Lodz, Mazowiecka 6/8, 92-215, Lodz, Poland
| | - Anna Walczewska
- Department of Cell-to-Cell Communication, Medical University of Lodz, Mazowiecka 6/8, 92-215, Lodz, Poland
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14
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Köhler S, Winkler U, Junge T, Lippmann K, Eilers J, Hirrlinger J. Gray and white matter astrocytes differ in basal metabolism but respond similarly to neuronal activity. Glia 2023; 71:229-244. [PMID: 36063073 DOI: 10.1002/glia.24268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2022] [Revised: 07/12/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Astrocytes are a heterogeneous population of glial cells in the brain, which adapt their properties to the requirements of the local environment. Two major groups of astrocytes are protoplasmic astrocytes residing in gray matter as well as fibrous astrocytes of white matter. Here, we compared the energy metabolism of astrocytes in the cortex and corpus callosum as representative gray matter and white matter regions, in acute brain slices taking advantage of genetically encoded fluorescent nanosensors for the NADH/NAD+ redox ratio and for ATP. Astrocytes of the corpus callosum presented a more reduced basal NADH/NAD+ redox ratio, and a lower cytosolic concentration of ATP compared to cortical astrocytes. In cortical astrocytes, the neurotransmitter glutamate and increased extracellular concentrations of K+ , typical correlates of neuronal activity, induced a more reduced NADH/NAD+ redox ratio. While application of glutamate decreased [ATP], K+ as well as the combination of glutamate and K+ resulted in an increase of ATP levels. Strikingly, a very similar regulation of metabolism by K+ and glutamate was observed in astrocytes in the corpus callosum. Finally, strong intrinsic neuronal activity provoked by application of bicuculline and withdrawal of Mg2+ caused a shift of the NADH/NAD+ redox ratio to a more reduced state as well as a slight reduction of [ATP] in gray and white matter astrocytes. In summary, the metabolism of astrocytes in cortex and corpus callosum shows distinct basal properties, but qualitatively similar responses to neuronal activity, probably reflecting the different environment and requirements of these brain regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susanne Köhler
- Faculty of Medicine, Carl-Ludwig-Institute for Physiology, Leipzig University, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Ulrike Winkler
- Faculty of Medicine, Carl-Ludwig-Institute for Physiology, Leipzig University, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Tabea Junge
- Faculty of Medicine, Carl-Ludwig-Institute for Physiology, Leipzig University, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Kristina Lippmann
- Faculty of Medicine, Carl-Ludwig-Institute for Physiology, Leipzig University, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Jens Eilers
- Faculty of Medicine, Carl-Ludwig-Institute for Physiology, Leipzig University, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Johannes Hirrlinger
- Faculty of Medicine, Carl-Ludwig-Institute for Physiology, Leipzig University, Leipzig, Germany.,Department of Neurogenetics, Max-Planck-Institute for Multidisciplinary Sciences, Göttingen, Germany
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15
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Nanotopography and Microconfinement Impact on Primary Hippocampal Astrocyte Morphology, Cytoskeleton and Spontaneous Calcium Wave Signalling. Cells 2023; 12:cells12020293. [PMID: 36672231 PMCID: PMC9856934 DOI: 10.3390/cells12020293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Revised: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Astrocytes' organisation affects the functioning and the fine morphology of the brain, both in physiological and pathological contexts. Although many aspects of their role have been characterised, their complex functions remain, to a certain extent, unclear with respect to their contribution to brain cell communication. Here, we studied the effects of nanotopography and microconfinement on primary hippocampal rat astrocytes. For this purpose, we fabricated nanostructured zirconia surfaces as homogenous substrates and as micrometric patterns, the latter produced by a combination of an additive nanofabrication and micropatterning technique. These engineered substrates reproduce both nanotopographical features and microscale geometries that astrocytes encounter in their natural environment, such as basement membrane topography, as well as blood vessels and axonal fibre topology. The impact of restrictive adhesion manifests in the modulation of several cellular properties of single cells (morphological and actin cytoskeletal changes) and the network organisation and functioning. Calcium wave signalling was observed only in astrocytes grown in confined geometries, with an activity enhancement in cells forming elongated agglomerates with dimensions typical of blood vessels or axon fibres. Our results suggest that calcium oscillation and wave propagation are closely related to astrocytic morphology and actin cytoskeleton organisation.
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16
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Stobart JL, Erlebach E, Glück C, Huang SF, Barrett MJ, Li M, Vinogradov SA, Klohs J, Zarb Y, Keller A, Weber B. Altered hemodynamics and vascular reactivity in a mouse model with severe pericyte deficiency. J Cereb Blood Flow Metab 2022; 43:763-777. [PMID: 36545806 PMCID: PMC10108184 DOI: 10.1177/0271678x221147366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Pericytes are the mural cells of the microvascular network that are in close contact with underlying endothelial cells. Endothelial-secreted PDGFB leads to recruitment of pericytes to the vessel wall, but this is disrupted in Pdgfbret/ret mice when the PDGFB retention motif is deleted. This results in severely reduced pericyte coverage on blood vessels. In this study, we investigated vascular abnormalities and hemodynamics in Pdgfbret/ret mice throughout the cerebrovascular network and in different cortical layers by in vivo two-photon microscopy. We confirmed that Pdgfbret/ret mice are severely deficient in pericytes throughout the vascular network, with enlarged brain blood vessels and a reduced number of vessel branches. Red blood cell velocity, linear density, and tube hematocrit were reduced in Pdgfbret/ret mice, which may impair oxygen delivery to the tissue. We also measured intravascular PO2 and found that concentrations were higher in cortical Layer 2/3 in Pdgfbret/ret mice, indicative of reduced blood oxygen extraction. Finally, we found that Pdgfbret/ret mice had a reduced capacity for vasodilation in response to an acetazolamide challenge during functional MRI imaging. Taken together, these results suggest that severe pericyte deficiency can lead to vascular abnormalities and altered cerebral blood flow, reminiscent of pathologies such as arteriovenous malformations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jillian L Stobart
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.,Neuroscience Center, University and ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.,College of Pharmacy, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Eva Erlebach
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.,Neuroscience Center, University and ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Chaim Glück
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.,Neuroscience Center, University and ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Sheng-Fu Huang
- Neuroscience Center, University and ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.,Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Matthew Jp Barrett
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.,Neuroscience Center, University and ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Max Li
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.,Neuroscience Center, University and ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Sergei A Vinogradov
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Jan Klohs
- Neuroscience Center, University and ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.,Institute for Biomedical Engineering, University of Zurich and ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Yvette Zarb
- Neuroscience Center, University and ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.,Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Annika Keller
- Neuroscience Center, University and ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.,Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Bruno Weber
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.,Neuroscience Center, University and ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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17
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Denizot A, Arizono M, Nägerl UV, Berry H, De Schutter E. Control of Ca 2+ signals by astrocyte nanoscale morphology at tripartite synapses. Glia 2022; 70:2378-2391. [PMID: 36097958 PMCID: PMC9825906 DOI: 10.1002/glia.24258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2022] [Revised: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Much of the Ca2+ activity in astrocytes is spatially restricted to microdomains and occurs in fine processes that form a complex anatomical meshwork, the so-called spongiform domain. A growing body of literature indicates that those astrocytic Ca2+ signals can influence the activity of neuronal synapses and thus tune the flow of information through neuronal circuits. Because of technical difficulties in accessing the small spatial scale involved, the role of astrocyte morphology on Ca2+ microdomain activity remains poorly understood. Here, we use computational tools and idealized 3D geometries of fine processes based on recent super-resolution microscopy data to investigate the mechanistic link between astrocytic nanoscale morphology and local Ca2+ activity. Simulations demonstrate that the nano-morphology of astrocytic processes powerfully shapes the spatio-temporal properties of Ca2+ signals and promotes local Ca2+ activity. The model predicts that this effect is attenuated upon astrocytic swelling, hallmark of brain diseases, which we confirm experimentally in hypo-osmotic conditions. Upon repeated neurotransmitter release events, the model predicts that swelling hinders astrocytic signal propagation. Overall, this study highlights the influence of the complex morphology of astrocytes at the nanoscale and its remodeling in pathological conditions on neuron-astrocyte communication at so-called tripartite synapses, where astrocytic processes come into close contact with pre- and postsynaptic structures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Audrey Denizot
- Computational Neuroscience UnitOkinawa Institute of Science and TechnologyOnna‐SonJapan
| | - Misa Arizono
- Interdisciplinary Institute for NeuroscienceUniversité de BordeauxBordeauxFrance
- Interdisciplinary Institute for NeuroscienceCNRS UMR 5297BordeauxFrance
- Department of PharmacologyKyoto University Graduate School of MedicineKyotoJapan
| | - U. Valentin Nägerl
- Interdisciplinary Institute for NeuroscienceUniversité de BordeauxBordeauxFrance
- Interdisciplinary Institute for NeuroscienceCNRS UMR 5297BordeauxFrance
| | - Hugues Berry
- LIRIS, UMR5205 CNRSUniv LyonVilleurbanneFrance
- INRIAVilleurbanneFrance
| | - Erik De Schutter
- Computational Neuroscience UnitOkinawa Institute of Science and TechnologyOnna‐SonJapan
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18
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Ding F, Liang S, Li R, Yang Z, He Y, Yang S, Duan Q, Zhang J, Lyu J, Zhou Z, Huang M, Wang H, Li J, Yang C, Wang Y, Gong M, Chen S, Jia H, Chen X, Liao X, Fu L, Zhang K. Astrocytes exhibit diverse Ca2+ changes at subcellular domains during brain aging. Front Aging Neurosci 2022; 14:1029533. [PMID: 36389078 PMCID: PMC9650392 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2022.1029533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Astrocytic Ca2+ transients are essential for astrocyte integration into neural circuits. These Ca2+ transients are primarily sequestered in subcellular domains, including primary branches, branchlets and leaflets, and endfeet. In previous studies, it suggests that aging causes functional defects in astrocytes. Until now, it was unclear whether and how aging affects astrocytic Ca2+ transients at subcellular domains. In this study, we combined a genetically encoded Ca2+ sensor (GCaMP6f) and in vivo two-photon Ca2+ imaging to determine changes in Ca2+ transients within astrocytic subcellular domains during brain aging. We showed that aging increased Ca2+ transients in astrocytic primary branches, higher-order branchlets, and terminal leaflets. However, Ca2+ transients decreased within astrocytic endfeet during brain aging, which could be caused by the decreased expressions of Aquaporin-4 (AQP4). In addition, aging-induced changes of Ca2+ transient types were heterogeneous within astrocytic subcellular domains. These results demonstrate that the astrocytic Ca2+ transients within subcellular domains are affected by aging differently. This finding contributes to a better understanding of the physiological role of astrocytes in aging-induced neural circuit degeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fusheng Ding
- Britton Chance Center for Biomedical Photonics, Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- MoE Key Laboratory for Biomedical Photonics, School of Engineering Sciences, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Brain Research Center and State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns, and Combined Injury, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Shanshan Liang
- Brain Research Center and State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns, and Combined Injury, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Ruijie Li
- Brain Research Center and State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns, and Combined Injury, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Advanced Institute for Brain and Intelligence and School of Physical Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
| | - Zhiqi Yang
- Brain Research Center and State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns, and Combined Injury, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yong He
- Brain Research Center and State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns, and Combined Injury, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Shaofan Yang
- Brain Research Center and State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns, and Combined Injury, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Qingtian Duan
- Brain Research Center and State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns, and Combined Injury, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jianxiong Zhang
- Brain Research Center and State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns, and Combined Injury, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jing Lyu
- Brain Research Instrument Innovation Center, Suzhou Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou, China
| | - Zhenqiao Zhou
- Brain Research Instrument Innovation Center, Suzhou Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou, China
| | - Mingzhu Huang
- Brain Research Center and State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns, and Combined Injury, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Haoyu Wang
- Brain Research Center and State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns, and Combined Injury, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jin Li
- Brain Research Center and State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns, and Combined Injury, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Chuanyan Yang
- Brain Research Center and State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns, and Combined Injury, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yuxia Wang
- Brain Research Center and State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns, and Combined Injury, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Mingyue Gong
- Brain Research Center and State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns, and Combined Injury, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Shangbin Chen
- Britton Chance Center for Biomedical Photonics, Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- MoE Key Laboratory for Biomedical Photonics, School of Engineering Sciences, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Hongbo Jia
- Advanced Institute for Brain and Intelligence and School of Physical Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, China
- Brain Research Instrument Innovation Center, Suzhou Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou, China
- Combinatorial NeuroImaging Core Facility, Leibniz Institute for Neurobiology, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Xiaowei Chen
- Brain Research Center and State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns, and Combined Injury, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Guangyang Bay Laboratory, Chongqing Institute for Brain and Intelligence, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiang Liao
- Center for Neurointelligence, School of Medicine, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
- *Correspondence: Xiang Liao,
| | - Ling Fu
- Britton Chance Center for Biomedical Photonics, Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- MoE Key Laboratory for Biomedical Photonics, School of Engineering Sciences, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Ling Fu,
| | - Kuan Zhang
- Brain Research Center and State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns, and Combined Injury, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Kuan Zhang,
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19
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Higinio-Rodríguez F, Rivera-Villaseñor A, Calero-Vargas I, López-Hidalgo M. From nociception to pain perception, possible implications of astrocytes. Front Cell Neurosci 2022; 16:972827. [PMID: 36159392 PMCID: PMC9492445 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2022.972827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Astrocytes are determinants for the functioning of the CNS. They respond to neuronal activity with calcium increases and can in turn modulate synaptic transmission, brain plasticity as well as cognitive processes. Astrocytes display sensory-evoked calcium responses in different brain structures related to the discriminative system of most sensory modalities. In particular, noxious stimulation evoked calcium responses in astrocytes in the spinal cord, the hippocampus, and the somatosensory cortex. However, it is not clear if astrocytes are involved in pain. Pain is a private, personal, and complex experience that warns us about potential tissue damage. It is a perception that is not linearly associated with the amount of tissue damage or nociception; instead, it is constructed with sensory, cognitive, and affective components and depends on our previous experiences. However, it is not fully understood how pain is created from nociception. In this perspective article, we provide an overview of the mechanisms and neuronal networks that underlie the perception of pain. Then we proposed that coherent activity of astrocytes in the spinal cord and pain-related brain areas could be important in binding sensory, affective, and cognitive information on a slower time scale.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frida Higinio-Rodríguez
- Escuela Nacional de Estudios Superiores, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Querétaro, Mexico
- Instituto de Neurobiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Querétaro, Mexico
| | - Angélica Rivera-Villaseñor
- Escuela Nacional de Estudios Superiores, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Querétaro, Mexico
- Instituto de Neurobiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Querétaro, Mexico
| | - Isnarhazni Calero-Vargas
- Escuela Nacional de Estudios Superiores, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Querétaro, Mexico
- Instituto de Neurobiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Querétaro, Mexico
| | - Mónica López-Hidalgo
- Escuela Nacional de Estudios Superiores, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Querétaro, Mexico
- *Correspondence: Mónica López-Hidalgo,
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20
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Ivanov VA, Michmizos KP. Astrocytes Learn to Detect and Signal Deviations from Critical Brain Dynamics. Neural Comput 2022; 34:2047-2074. [PMID: 36027803 DOI: 10.1162/neco_a_01532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2021] [Accepted: 06/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Astrocytes are nonneuronal brain cells that were recently shown to actively communicate with neurons and are implicated in memory, learning, and regulation of cognitive states. Interestingly, these information processing functions are also closely linked to the brain's ability to self-organize at a critical phase transition. Investigating the mechanistic link between astrocytes and critical brain dynamics remains beyond the reach of cellular experiments, but it becomes increasingly approachable through computational studies. We developed a biologically plausible computational model of astrocytes to analyze how astrocyte calcium waves can respond to changes in underlying network dynamics. Our results suggest that astrocytes detect synaptic activity and signal directional changes in neuronal network dynamics using the frequency of their calcium waves. We show that this function may be facilitated by receptor scaling plasticity by enabling astrocytes to learn the approximate information content of input synaptic activity. This resulted in a computationally simple, information-theoretic model, which we demonstrate replicating the signaling functionality of the biophysical astrocyte model with receptor scaling. Our findings provide several experimentally testable hypotheses that offer insight into the regulatory role of astrocytes in brain information processing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vladimir A Ivanov
- Computational Brain Lab, Department of Computer Science, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854, U.S.A.
| | - Konstantinos P Michmizos
- Computational Brain Lab, Department of Computer Science, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854, U.S.A.
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21
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Ioanas HI, Schlegel F, Skachokova Z, Schroeter A, Husak T, Rudin M. Hybrid fiber optic-fMRI for multimodal cell-specific recording and manipulation of neural activity in rodents. NEUROPHOTONICS 2022; 9:032206. [PMID: 35355657 PMCID: PMC8936941 DOI: 10.1117/1.nph.9.3.032206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Significance: Multiscale imaging holds particular relevance to neuroscience, where it helps integrate the cellular and molecular biological scale, which is most accessible to interventions, with holistic organ-level evaluations, most relevant with respect to function. Being inextricably interdisciplinary, multiscale imaging benefits substantially from incremental technology adoption, and a detailed overview of the state-of-the-art is vital to an informed application of imaging methods. Aim: In this article, we lay out the background and methodological aspects of multimodal approaches combining functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) with simultaneous optical measurement or stimulation. Approach: We focus on optical techniques as these allow, in conjunction with genetically encoded proteins (e.g. calcium indicators or optical signal transducers), unprecedented read-out and control specificity for individual cell-types during fMRI experiments, while leveraging non-interfering modalities. Results: A variety of different solutions for optical/fMRI methods has been reported ranging from bulk fluorescence recordings via fiber photometry to high resolution microscopy. In particular, the plethora of optogenetic tools has enabled the transformation of stimulus-evoked fMRI into a cell biological interrogation method. We discuss the capabilities and limitations of these genetically encoded molecular tools in the study of brain phenomena of great methodological and neuropsychiatric interest-such as neurovascular coupling (NVC) and neuronal network mapping. We provide a methodological description of this interdisciplinary field of study, and focus in particular on the limitations of the widely used blood oxygen level dependent (BOLD) signal and how multimodal readouts can shed light on the contributions arising from neurons, astrocytes, or the vasculature. Conclusion: We conclude that information from multiple signaling pathways must be incorporated in future forward models of the BOLD response to prevent erroneous conclusions when using fMRI as a surrogate measure for neural activity. Further, we highlight the potential of direct neuronal stimulation via genetically defined brain networks towards advancing neurophysiological understanding and better estimating effective connectivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Horea-Ioan Ioanas
- University of Zurich Institute for Biomedical Engineering, ETH, Zürich, Switzerland
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Department of Biological Engineering, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States
- Dartmouth College, Center for Open Neuroscience, Hanover, New Hampshire, United States
- Address all correspondence to Markus Rudin, ; Horea-Ioan Ioanas,
| | - Felix Schlegel
- University of Zurich Institute for Biomedical Engineering, ETH, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Zhiva Skachokova
- University of Zurich Institute for Biomedical Engineering, ETH, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Aileen Schroeter
- University of Zurich Institute for Biomedical Engineering, ETH, Zürich, Switzerland
- University of Zurich, USZ Innovation Hub, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Tetiana Husak
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Markus Rudin
- University of Zurich Institute for Biomedical Engineering, ETH, Zürich, Switzerland
- The LOOP Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Address all correspondence to Markus Rudin, ; Horea-Ioan Ioanas,
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22
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Covelo A, Badoual A, Denizot A. Reinforcing Interdisciplinary Collaborations to Unravel the Astrocyte "Calcium Code". J Mol Neurosci 2022; 72:1443-1455. [PMID: 35543801 PMCID: PMC9293817 DOI: 10.1007/s12031-022-02006-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2021] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
In this review article, we present the major insights from and challenges faced in the acquisition, analysis and modeling of astrocyte calcium activity, aiming at bridging the gap between those fields to crack the complex astrocyte "Calcium Code". We then propose strategies to reinforce interdisciplinary collaborative projects to unravel astrocyte function in health and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Covelo
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), U1215, NeuroCentre Magendie, 33077, Bordeaux, France
- University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, 33077, France
| | - Anaïs Badoual
- SERPICO Project-Team, Inria Centre Rennes-Bretagne Atlantique, Rennes Cedex, 35042, France
- SERPICO/STED Team, UMR144 CNRS Institut Curie, PSL Research University, Sorbonne Universités, Paris, 75005, France
| | - Audrey Denizot
- Computational Neuroscience Unit, Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology, Onna, 904-0495, Japan.
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23
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Tran CHT. Toolbox for studying neurovascular coupling in vivo, with a focus on vascular activity and calcium dynamics in astrocytes. NEUROPHOTONICS 2022; 9:021909. [PMID: 35295714 PMCID: PMC8920490 DOI: 10.1117/1.nph.9.2.021909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2021] [Accepted: 02/23/2022] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
Significance: Insights into the cellular activity of each member of the neurovascular unit (NVU) is critical for understanding their contributions to neurovascular coupling (NVC)-one of the key control mechanisms in cerebral blood flow regulation. Advances in imaging and genetic tools have enhanced our ability to observe, manipulate and understand the cellular activity of NVU components, namely neurons, astrocytes, microglia, endothelial cells, vascular smooth muscle cells, and pericytes. However, there are still many unresolved questions. Since astrocytes are considered electrically unexcitable,Ca 2 + signaling is the main parameter used to monitor their activity. It is therefore imperative to study astrocyticCa 2 + dynamics simultaneously with vascular activity using tools appropriate for the question of interest. Aim: To highlight currently available genetic and imaging tools for studying the NVU-and thus NVC-with a focus on astrocyteCa 2 + dynamics and vascular activity, and discuss the utility, technical advantages, and limitations of these tools for elucidating NVC mechanisms. Approach: We draw attention to some outstanding questions regarding the mechanistic basis of NVC and emphasize the role of astrocyticCa 2 + elevations in functional hyperemia. We further discuss commonly used genetic, and optical imaging tools, as well as some newly developed imaging modalities for studying NVC at the cellular level, highlighting their advantages and limitations. Results: We provide an overview of the current state of NVC research, focusing on the role of astrocyticCa 2 + elevations in functional hyperemia; summarize recent advances in genetically engineeredCa 2 + indicators, fluorescence microscopy techniques for studying NVC; and discuss the unmet challenges for future imaging development. Conclusions: Advances in imaging techniques together with improvements in genetic tools have significantly contributed to our understanding of NVC. Many pieces of the puzzle have been revealed, but many more remain to be discovered. Ultimately, optimizing NVC research will require a concerted effort to improve imaging techniques, available genetic tools, and analytical software.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cam Ha T. Tran
- University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, Reno, Nevada, United States
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24
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Hösli L, Binini N, Ferrari KD, Thieren L, Looser ZJ, Zuend M, Zanker HS, Berry S, Holub M, Möbius W, Ruhwedel T, Nave KA, Giaume C, Weber B, Saab AS. Decoupling astrocytes in adult mice impairs synaptic plasticity and spatial learning. Cell Rep 2022; 38:110484. [PMID: 35263595 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2022.110484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2020] [Revised: 11/20/2021] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The mechanisms by which astrocytes modulate neural homeostasis, synaptic plasticity, and memory are still poorly explored. Astrocytes form large intercellular networks by gap junction coupling, mainly composed of two gap junction channel proteins, connexin 30 (Cx30) and connexin 43 (Cx43). To circumvent developmental perturbations and to test whether astrocytic gap junction coupling is required for hippocampal neural circuit function and behavior, we generate and study inducible, astrocyte-specific Cx30 and Cx43 double knockouts. Surprisingly, disrupting astrocytic coupling in adult mice results in broad activation of astrocytes and microglia, without obvious signs of pathology. We show that hippocampal CA1 neuron excitability, excitatory synaptic transmission, and long-term potentiation are significantly affected. Moreover, behavioral inspection reveals deficits in sensorimotor performance and a complete lack of spatial learning and memory. Together, our findings establish that astrocytic connexins and an intact astroglial network in the adult brain are vital for neural homeostasis, plasticity, and spatial cognition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ladina Hösli
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland; Neuroscience Center Zurich, University and ETH Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Noemi Binini
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland; Neuroscience Center Zurich, University and ETH Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Kim David Ferrari
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland; Neuroscience Center Zurich, University and ETH Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Laetitia Thieren
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland; Neuroscience Center Zurich, University and ETH Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Zoe J Looser
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland; Neuroscience Center Zurich, University and ETH Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Marc Zuend
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland; Neuroscience Center Zurich, University and ETH Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Henri S Zanker
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland; Neuroscience Center Zurich, University and ETH Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Stewart Berry
- Brain Research Institute, University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Martin Holub
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland; Neuroscience Center Zurich, University and ETH Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Wiebke Möbius
- Max Planck Institute of Experimental Medicine, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Torben Ruhwedel
- Max Planck Institute of Experimental Medicine, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Klaus-Armin Nave
- Max Planck Institute of Experimental Medicine, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Christian Giaume
- Center for Interdisciplinary Research in Biology (CIRB), Collège de France, 75231 Paris Cedex 05, France
| | - Bruno Weber
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland; Neuroscience Center Zurich, University and ETH Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland.
| | - Aiman S Saab
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland; Neuroscience Center Zurich, University and ETH Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland.
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25
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Georgiou L, Echeverría A, Georgiou A, Kuhn B. Ca + activity maps of astrocytes tagged by axoastrocytic AAV transfer. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2022; 8:eabe5371. [PMID: 35138891 PMCID: PMC8827655 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abe5371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2020] [Accepted: 12/17/2021] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Astrocytes exhibit localized Ca2+ microdomain (MD) activity thought to be actively involved in information processing in the brain. However, functional organization of Ca2+ MDs in space and time in relationship to behavior and neuronal activity is poorly understood. Here, we first show that adeno-associated virus (AAV) particles transfer anterogradely from axons to astrocytes. Then, we use this axoastrocytic AAV transfer to express genetically encoded Ca2+ indicators at high-contrast circuit specifically. In combination with two-photon microscopy and unbiased, event-based analysis, we investigated cortical astrocytes embedded in the vibrissal thalamocortical circuit. We found a wide range of Ca2+ MD signals, some of which were ultrafast (≤300 ms). Frequency and size of signals were extensively increased by locomotion but only subtly with sensory stimulation. The overlay of these signals resulted in behavior-dependent maps with characteristic Ca2+ activity hotspots, maybe representing memory engrams. These functional subdomains are stable over days, suggesting subcellular specialization.
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26
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Lin X, Chen L, Baglietto-Vargas D, Kamalipour P, Ye Q, LaFerla FM, Nitz DA, Holmes TC, Xu X. Spatial coding defects of hippocampal neural ensemble calcium activities in the triple-transgenic Alzheimer's disease mouse model. Neurobiol Dis 2022; 162:105562. [PMID: 34838667 PMCID: PMC9482454 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2021.105562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Revised: 10/24/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) causes progressive age-related defects in memory and cognitive function and has emerged as a major health and socio-economic concern in the US and worldwide. To develop effective therapeutic treatments for AD, we need to better understand the neural mechanisms by which AD causes memory loss and cognitive deficits. Here we examine large-scale hippocampal neural population calcium activities imaged at single cell resolution in a triple-transgenic Alzheimer's disease mouse model (3xTg-AD) that presents both amyloid plaque and neurofibrillary pathological features along with age-related behavioral defects. To measure encoding of environmental location in hippocampal neural ensembles in the 3xTg-AD mice in vivo, we performed GCaMP6-based calcium imaging using head-mounted, miniature fluorescent microscopes ("miniscopes") on freely moving animals. We compared hippocampal CA1 excitatory neural ensemble activities during open-field exploration and track-based route-running behaviors in age-matched AD and control mice at young (3-6.5 months old) and old (18-21 months old) ages. During open-field exploration, 3xTg-AD CA1 excitatory cells display significantly higher calcium activity rates compared with Non-Tg controls for both the young and old age groups, suggesting that in vivo enhanced neuronal calcium ensemble activity is a disease feature. CA1 neuronal populations of 3xTg-AD mice show lower spatial information scores compared with control mice. The spatial firing of CA1 neurons of old 3xTg-AD mice also displays higher sparsity and spatial coherence, indicating less place specificity for spatial representation. We find locomotor speed significantly modulates the amplitude of hippocampal neural calcium ensemble activities to a greater extent in 3xTg-AD mice during open field exploration. Our data offer new and comprehensive information about age-dependent neural circuit activity changes in this important AD mouse model and provide strong evidence that spatial coding defects in the neuronal population activities are associated with AD pathology and AD-related memory behavioral deficits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoxiao Lin
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, School of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697, United States of America
| | - Lujia Chen
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, School of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697, United States of America; Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697, United States of America
| | - David Baglietto-Vargas
- Departamento Biologia Celular, Genetica y Fisiologia, Instituto de Investigacion Biomedica de Malaga-IBIMA, Centro de Investigacion Biomedica en Red Sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Malaga, Malaga 29071, Spain; Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorder, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697, United States of America
| | - Parsa Kamalipour
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, School of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697, United States of America
| | - Qiao Ye
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, School of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697, United States of America; Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697, United States of America
| | - Frank M LaFerla
- Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorder, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697, United States of America
| | - Douglas A Nitz
- Department of Cognitive Science, University of California, San Diego, CA 92093, United States of America; Center for Neural Circuit Mapping, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697, United States of America
| | - Todd C Holmes
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, School of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697, United States of America; Center for Neural Circuit Mapping, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697, United States of America
| | - Xiangmin Xu
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, School of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697, United States of America; Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorder, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697, United States of America; Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697, United States of America; Center for Neural Circuit Mapping, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697, United States of America.
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27
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Fear learning induces α7-nicotinic acetylcholine receptor-mediated astrocytic responsiveness that is required for memory persistence. Nat Neurosci 2021; 24:1686-1698. [PMID: 34782794 DOI: 10.1038/s41593-021-00949-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2020] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Memory persistence is a fundamental cognitive process for guiding behaviors and is considered to rely mostly on neuronal and synaptic plasticity. Whether and how astrocytes contribute to memory persistence is largely unknown. Here, by using two-photon Ca2+ imaging in head-fixed mice and fiber photometry in freely moving mice, we show that aversive sensory stimulation activates α7-nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) in a subpopulation of astrocytes in the auditory cortex. We demonstrate that fear learning causes the de novo induction of sound-evoked Ca2+ transients in these astrocytes. The astrocytic responsiveness persisted over days along with fear memory and disappeared in animals that underwent extinction of learned freezing behavior. Conditional genetic deletion of α7-nAChRs in astrocytes significantly impaired fear memory persistence. We conclude that learning-acquired, α7-nAChR-dependent astrocytic responsiveness is an integral part of the cellular substrate underlying memory persistence.
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28
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Ahmadpour N, Kantroo M, Stobart JL. Extracellular Calcium Influx Pathways in Astrocyte Calcium Microdomain Physiology. Biomolecules 2021; 11:1467. [PMID: 34680100 PMCID: PMC8533159 DOI: 10.3390/biom11101467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2021] [Revised: 09/25/2021] [Accepted: 10/01/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Astrocytes are complex glial cells that play many essential roles in the brain, including the fine-tuning of synaptic activity and blood flow. These roles are linked to fluctuations in intracellular Ca2+ within astrocytes. Recent advances in imaging techniques have identified localized Ca2+ transients within the fine processes of the astrocytic structure, which we term microdomain Ca2+ events. These Ca2+ transients are very diverse and occur under different conditions, including in the presence or absence of surrounding circuit activity. This complexity suggests that different signalling mechanisms mediate microdomain events which may then encode specific astrocyte functions from the modulation of synapses up to brain circuits and behaviour. Several recent studies have shown that a subset of astrocyte microdomain Ca2+ events occur rapidly following local neuronal circuit activity. In this review, we consider the physiological relevance of microdomain astrocyte Ca2+ signalling within brain circuits and outline possible pathways of extracellular Ca2+ influx through ionotropic receptors and other Ca2+ ion channels, which may contribute to astrocyte microdomain events with potentially fast dynamics.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jillian L. Stobart
- College of Pharmacy, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, 750 McDermot Avenue, Winnipeg, MG R3E 0T5, Canada; (N.A.); (M.K.)
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29
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Weiss S, Clamon LC, Manoim JE, Ormerod KG, Parnas M, Littleton JT. Glial ER and GAP junction mediated Ca 2+ waves are crucial to maintain normal brain excitability. Glia 2021; 70:123-144. [PMID: 34528727 DOI: 10.1002/glia.24092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2021] [Revised: 08/29/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Astrocytes play key roles in regulating multiple aspects of neuronal function from invertebrates to humans and display Ca2+ fluctuations that are heterogeneously distributed throughout different cellular microdomains. Changes in Ca2+ dynamics represent a key mechanism for how astrocytes modulate neuronal activity. An unresolved issue is the origin and contribution of specific glial Ca2+ signaling components at distinct astrocytic domains to neuronal physiology and brain function. The Drosophila model system offers a simple nervous system that is highly amenable to cell-specific genetic manipulations to characterize the role of glial Ca2+ signaling. Here we identify a role for ER store-operated Ca2+ entry (SOCE) pathway in perineurial glia (PG), a glial population that contributes to the Drosophila blood-brain barrier. We show that PG cells display diverse Ca2+ activity that varies based on their locale within the brain. Ca2+ signaling in PG cells does not require extracellular Ca2+ and is blocked by inhibition of SOCE, Ryanodine receptors, or gap junctions. Disruption of these components triggers stimuli-induced seizure-like episodes. These findings indicate that Ca2+ release from internal stores and its propagation between neighboring glial cells via gap junctions are essential for maintaining normal nervous system function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shirley Weiss
- The Picower Institute for Learning and Memory, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Lauren C Clamon
- The Picower Institute for Learning and Memory, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Julia E Manoim
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Kiel G Ormerod
- The Picower Institute for Learning and Memory, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Moshe Parnas
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel.,Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - J Troy Littleton
- The Picower Institute for Learning and Memory, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
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30
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Glück C, Ferrari KD, Binini N, Keller A, Saab AS, Stobart JL, Weber B. Distinct signatures of calcium activity in brain mural cells. eLife 2021; 10:e70591. [PMID: 34227466 PMCID: PMC8294852 DOI: 10.7554/elife.70591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2021] [Accepted: 06/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Pericytes have been implicated in various neuropathologies, yet little is known about their function and signaling pathways in health. Here, we characterized calcium dynamics of cortical mural cells in anesthetized or awake Pdgfrb-CreERT2;Rosa26< LSL-GCaMP6s > mice and in acute brain slices. Smooth muscle cells (SMCs) and ensheathing pericytes (EPs), also named as terminal vascular SMCs, revealed similar calcium dynamics in vivo. In contrast, calcium signals in capillary pericytes (CPs) were irregular, higher in frequency, and occurred in cellular microdomains. In the absence of the vessel constricting agent U46619 in acute slices, SMCs and EPs revealed only sparse calcium signals, whereas CPs retained their spontaneous calcium activity. Interestingly, chemogenetic activation of neurons in vivo and acute elevations of extracellular potassium in brain slices strongly decreased calcium activity in CPs. We propose that neuronal activation and an extracellular increase in potassium suppress calcium activity in CPs, likely mediated by Kir2.2 and KATP channels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chaim Glück
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of ZurichZürichSwitzerland
- Neuroscience Center Zurich, University and ETH ZurichZurichSwitzerland
| | - Kim David Ferrari
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of ZurichZürichSwitzerland
- Neuroscience Center Zurich, University and ETH ZurichZurichSwitzerland
| | - Noemi Binini
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of ZurichZürichSwitzerland
- Neuroscience Center Zurich, University and ETH ZurichZurichSwitzerland
| | - Annika Keller
- Neuroscience Center Zurich, University and ETH ZurichZurichSwitzerland
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of ZurichSchlierenSwitzerland
| | - Aiman S Saab
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of ZurichZürichSwitzerland
- Neuroscience Center Zurich, University and ETH ZurichZurichSwitzerland
| | - Jillian L Stobart
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of ZurichZürichSwitzerland
- Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, College of PharmacyWinnipegCanada
| | - Bruno Weber
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of ZurichZürichSwitzerland
- Neuroscience Center Zurich, University and ETH ZurichZurichSwitzerland
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31
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Lia A, Henriques VJ, Zonta M, Chiavegato A, Carmignoto G, Gómez-Gonzalo M, Losi G. Calcium Signals in Astrocyte Microdomains, a Decade of Great Advances. Front Cell Neurosci 2021; 15:673433. [PMID: 34163329 PMCID: PMC8216559 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2021.673433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2021] [Accepted: 04/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The glial cells astrocytes have long been recognized as important neuron-supporting elements in brain development, homeostasis, and metabolism. After the discovery that the reciprocal communication between astrocytes and neurons is a fundamental mechanism in the modulation of neuronal synaptic communication, over the last two decades astrocytes became a hot topic in neuroscience research. Crucial to their functional interactions with neurons are the cytosolic Ca2+ elevations that mediate gliotransmission. Large attention has been posed to the so-called Ca2+microdomains, dynamic Ca2+ changes spatially restricted to fine astrocytic processes including perisynaptic astrocytic processes (PAPs). With presynaptic terminals and postsynaptic neuronal membranes, PAPs compose the tripartite synapse. The distinct spatial-temporal features and functional roles of astrocyte microdomain Ca2+ activity remain poorly defined. However, thanks to the development of genetically encoded Ca2+ indicators (GECIs), advanced microscopy techniques, and innovative analytical approaches, Ca2+ transients in astrocyte microdomains were recently studied in unprecedented detail. These events have been observed to occur much more frequently (∼50–100-fold) and dynamically than somatic Ca2+ elevations with mechanisms that likely involve both IP3-dependent and -independent pathways. Further progress aimed to clarify the complex, dynamic machinery responsible for astrocytic Ca2+ activity at microdomains is a crucial step in our understanding of the astrocyte role in brain function and may also reveal astrocytes as novel therapeutic targets for different brain diseases. Here, we review the most recent studies that improve our mechanistic understanding of the essential features of astrocyte Ca2+ microdomains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annamaria Lia
- Neuroscience Institute, National Research Council (IN-CNR), Padua, Italy.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Vanessa Jorge Henriques
- Neuroscience Institute, National Research Council (IN-CNR), Padua, Italy.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Micaela Zonta
- Neuroscience Institute, National Research Council (IN-CNR), Padua, Italy.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Angela Chiavegato
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Giorgio Carmignoto
- Neuroscience Institute, National Research Council (IN-CNR), Padua, Italy.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Marta Gómez-Gonzalo
- Neuroscience Institute, National Research Council (IN-CNR), Padua, Italy.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Gabriele Losi
- Neuroscience Institute, National Research Council (IN-CNR), Padua, Italy.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
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32
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McNeill J, Rudyk C, Hildebrand ME, Salmaso N. Ion Channels and Electrophysiological Properties of Astrocytes: Implications for Emergent Stimulation Technologies. Front Cell Neurosci 2021; 15:644126. [PMID: 34093129 PMCID: PMC8173131 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2021.644126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2020] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Astrocytes comprise a heterogeneous cell population characterized by distinct morphologies, protein expression and function. Unlike neurons, astrocytes do not generate action potentials, however, they are electrically dynamic cells with extensive electrophysiological heterogeneity and diversity. Astrocytes are hyperpolarized cells with low membrane resistance. They are heavily involved in the modulation of K+ and express an array of different voltage-dependent and voltage-independent channels to help with this ion regulation. In addition to these K+ channels, astrocytes also express several different types of Na+ channels; intracellular Na+ signaling in astrocytes has been linked to some of their functional properties. The physiological hallmark of astrocytes is their extensive intracellular Ca2+ signaling cascades, which vary at the regional, subregional, and cellular levels. In this review article, we highlight the physiological properties of astrocytes and the implications for their function and influence of network and synaptic activity. Furthermore, we discuss the implications of these differences in the context of optogenetic and DREADD experiments and consider whether these tools represent physiologically relevant techniques for the interrogation of astrocyte function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica McNeill
- Department of Neuroscience, Carleton University, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | | | | | - Natalina Salmaso
- Department of Neuroscience, Carleton University, Ottawa, ON, Canada
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33
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Lim D, Semyanov A, Genazzani A, Verkhratsky A. Calcium signaling in neuroglia. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2021; 362:1-53. [PMID: 34253292 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ircmb.2021.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Glial cells exploit calcium (Ca2+) signals to perceive the information about the activity of the nervous tissue and the tissue environment to translate this information into an array of homeostatic, signaling and defensive reactions. Astrocytes, the best studied glial cells, use several Ca2+ signaling generation pathways that include Ca2+ entry through plasma membrane, release from endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and from mitochondria. Activation of metabotropic receptors on the plasma membrane of glial cells is coupled to an enzymatic cascade in which a second messenger, InsP3 is generated thus activating intracellular Ca2+ release channels in the ER endomembrane. Astrocytes also possess store-operated Ca2+ entry and express several ligand-gated Ca2+ channels. In vivo astrocytes generate heterogeneous Ca2+ signals, which are short and frequent in distal processes, but large and relatively rare in soma. In response to neuronal activity intracellular and inter-cellular astrocytic Ca2+ waves can be produced. Astrocytic Ca2+ signals are involved in secretion, they regulate ion transport across cell membranes, and are contributing to cell morphological plasticity. Therefore, astrocytic Ca2+ signals are linked to fundamental functions of the central nervous system ranging from synaptic transmission to behavior. In oligodendrocytes, Ca2+ signals are generated by plasmalemmal Ca2+ influx, or by release from intracellular stores, or by combination of both. Microglial cells exploit Ca2+ permeable ionotropic purinergic receptors and transient receptor potential channels as well as ER Ca2+ release. In this contribution, basic morphology of glial cells, glial Ca2+ signaling toolkit, intracellular Ca2+ signals and Ca2+-regulated functions are discussed with focus on astrocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dmitry Lim
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Università del Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy.
| | - Alexey Semyanov
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia; Faculty of Biology, Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia; Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Armando Genazzani
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Università del Piemonte Orientale, Novara, Italy
| | - Alexei Verkhratsky
- Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russia; Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom; Achucarro Centre for Neuroscience, IKERBASQUE, Basque Foundation for Science, Bilbao, Spain.
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34
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Onimaru H, Yazawa I, Takeda K, Fukushi I, Okada Y. Calcium Imaging Analysis of Cellular Responses to Hypercapnia and Hypoxia in the NTS of Newborn Rat Brainstem Preparation. Front Physiol 2021; 12:645904. [PMID: 33841182 PMCID: PMC8027497 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.645904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2020] [Accepted: 03/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
It is supposed that the nucleus of the solitary tract (NTS) in the dorsal medulla includes gas sensor cells responsive to hypercapnia or hypoxia in the central nervous system. In the present study, we analyzed cellular responses to hypercapnia and hypoxia in the NTS region of newborn rat in vitro preparation. The brainstem and spinal cord were isolated from newborn rat (P0-P4) and were transversely cut at the level of the rostral area postrema. To detect cellular responses, calcium indicator Oregon Green was pressure-injected into the NTS just beneath the cut surface of either the caudal or rostral block of the medulla, and the preparation was superfused with artificial cerebrospinal fluid (25–26°C). We examined cellular responses initially to hypercapnic stimulation (to 8% CO2 from 2% CO2) and then to hypoxic stimulation (to 0% O2 from 95% O2 at 5% CO2). We tested these responses in standard solution and in two different synapse blockade solutions: (1) cocktail blockers solution including bicuculline, strychnine, NBQX and MK-801 or (2) TTX solution. At the end of the experiments, the superfusate potassium concentration was lowered to 0.2 from 3 mM to classify recorded cells into neurons and astrocytes. Excitation of cells was detected as changes of fluorescence intensity with a confocal calcium imaging system. In the synaptic blockade solutions (cocktail or TTX solution), 7.6 and 8% of the NTS cells responded to hypercapnic and hypoxic stimulation, respectively, and approximately 2% of them responded to both stimulations. Some of these cells responded to low K+, and they were classified into astrocytes comprising 43% hypercapnia-sensitive cells, 56% hypoxia-sensitive cells and 54% of both stimulation-sensitive cells. Of note, 49% of the putative astrocytes identified by low K+ stimulation were sensitive to hypercapnia, hypoxia or both. In the presence of a glia preferential blocker, 5 mM fluoroacetate (plus 0.5 μM TTX), the percentage of hypoxia-sensitive cells was significantly reduced compared to those of all other conditions. This is the first study to reveal that the NTS includes hypercapnia and hypoxia dual-sensitive cells. These results suggest that astrocytes in the NTS region could act as a central gas sensor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroshi Onimaru
- Department of Physiology, Showa University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Itaru Yazawa
- Global Research Center for Innovative Life Science, Hoshi University School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kotaro Takeda
- Faculty of Rehabilitation, School of Healthcare, Fujita Health University, Toyoake, Japan
| | - Isato Fukushi
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Uekusa Gakuen University, Chiba, Japan.,Clinical Research Center, Murayama Medical Center, Musashimurayama, Japan
| | - Yasumasa Okada
- Clinical Research Center, Murayama Medical Center, Musashimurayama, Japan
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35
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Grieco SF, Qiao X, Johnston KG, Chen L, Nelson RR, Lai C, Holmes TC, Xu X. Neuregulin signaling mediates the acute and sustained antidepressant effects of subanesthetic ketamine. Transl Psychiatry 2021; 11:144. [PMID: 33627623 PMCID: PMC7904825 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-021-01255-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2020] [Revised: 01/09/2021] [Accepted: 02/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Subanesthetic ketamine evokes rapid antidepressant effects in human patients that persist long past ketamine's chemical half-life of ~2 h. Ketamine's sustained antidepressant action may be due to modulation of cortical plasticity. We find that ketamine ameliorates depression-like behavior in the forced swim test in adult mice, and this depends on parvalbumin-expressing (PV) neuron-directed neuregulin-1 (NRG1)/ErbB4 signaling. Ketamine rapidly downregulates NRG1 expression in PV inhibitory neurons in mouse medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) following a single low-dose ketamine treatment. This NRG1 downregulation in PV neurons co-tracks with the decreases in synaptic inhibition to mPFC excitatory neurons for up to a week. This results from reduced synaptic excitation to PV neurons, and is blocked by exogenous NRG1 as well as by PV targeted ErbB4 receptor knockout. Thus, we conceptualize that ketamine's effects are mediated through rapid and sustained cortical disinhibition via PV-specific NRG1 signaling. Our findings reveal a novel neural plasticity-based mechanism for ketamine's acute and long-lasting antidepressant effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven F. Grieco
- grid.266093.80000 0001 0668 7243Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, School of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697-1275 USA
| | - Xin Qiao
- grid.266093.80000 0001 0668 7243Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, School of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697-1275 USA
| | - Kevin G. Johnston
- grid.266093.80000 0001 0668 7243Department of Mathematics, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697-3875 USA
| | - Lujia Chen
- grid.266093.80000 0001 0668 7243Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, School of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697-1275 USA
| | - Renetta R. Nelson
- grid.266093.80000 0001 0668 7243Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, School of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697-1275 USA
| | - Cary Lai
- grid.411377.70000 0001 0790 959XDepartment of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN 47405-7000 USA
| | - Todd C. Holmes
- grid.19006.3e0000 0000 9632 6718Department of Physiology and Biophysics, School of Medicine, Universityof California, Irvine, CA 92697- 4560 USA ,grid.266093.80000 0001 0668 7243The Center for Neural Circuit Mapping, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697 USA
| | - Xiangmin Xu
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, School of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92697-1275, USA. .,The Center for Neural Circuit Mapping, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA. .,Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92697-2715, USA. .,Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92697-4025, USA. .,Department of Computer Science, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92697-3435, USA.
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36
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Moshkforoush A, Balachandar L, Moncion C, Montejo KA, Riera J. Unraveling ChR2-driven stochastic Ca2+ dynamics in astrocytes: A call for new interventional paradigms. PLoS Comput Biol 2021; 17:e1008648. [PMID: 33566841 PMCID: PMC7875401 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pcbi.1008648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2020] [Accepted: 12/20/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Optogenetic targeting of astrocytes provides a robust experimental model to differentially induce Ca2+ signals in astrocytes in vivo. However, a systematic study quantifying the response of optogenetically modified astrocytes to light is yet to be performed. Here, we propose a novel stochastic model of Ca2+ dynamics in astrocytes that incorporates a light sensitive component-channelrhodopsin 2 (ChR2). Utilizing this model, we investigated the effect of different light stimulation paradigms on cells expressing select variants of ChR2 (wild type, ChETA, and ChRET/TC). Results predict that depending on paradigm specification, astrocytes might undergo drastic changes in their basal Ca2+ level and spiking probability. Furthermore, we performed a global sensitivity analysis to assess the effect of variation in parameters pertinent to the shape of the ChR2 photocurrent on astrocytic Ca2+ dynamics. Results suggest that directing variants towards the first open state of the ChR2 photocycle (o1) enhances spiking activity in astrocytes during optical stimulation. Evaluation of the effect of Ca2+ buffering and coupling coefficient in a network of ChR2-expressing astrocytes demonstrated basal level elevations in the stimulated region and propagation of calcium activity to unstimulated cells. Buffering reduced the diffusion range of Ca2+ within the network, thereby limiting propagation and influencing the activity of astrocytes. Collectively, the framework presented in this study provides valuable information for the selection of light stimulation paradigms that elicit desired astrocytic activity using existing ChR2 constructs, as well as aids in the engineering of future application-oriented optogenetic variants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arash Moshkforoush
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Florida International University, Miami, Florida, United States of America
| | - Lakshmini Balachandar
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Florida International University, Miami, Florida, United States of America
| | - Carolina Moncion
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Florida International University, Miami, Florida, United States of America
| | - Karla A. Montejo
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Florida International University, Miami, Florida, United States of America
- Department of Neurologic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, United States of America
| | - Jorge Riera
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Florida International University, Miami, Florida, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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37
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Hwang SN, Lee JS, Seo K, Lee H. Astrocytic Regulation of Neural Circuits Underlying Behaviors. Cells 2021; 10:cells10020296. [PMID: 33535587 PMCID: PMC7912785 DOI: 10.3390/cells10020296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2020] [Revised: 01/23/2021] [Accepted: 01/29/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Astrocytes, characterized by a satellite-like morphology, are the most abundant type of glia in the central nervous system. Their main functions have been thought to be limited to providing homeostatic support for neurons, but recent studies have revealed that astrocytes actually actively interact with local neural circuits and play a crucial role in information processing and generating physiological and behavioral responses. Here, we review the emerging roles of astrocytes in many brain regions, particularly by focusing on intracellular changes in astrocytes and their interactions with neurons at the molecular and neural circuit levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sun-Nyoung Hwang
- Convergence Research Advanced Centre for Olfaction, Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology (DGIST), Daegu 42988, Korea;
| | - Jae Seung Lee
- Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, DGIST, Daegu 42988, Korea; (J.S.L.); (K.S.)
| | - Kain Seo
- Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, DGIST, Daegu 42988, Korea; (J.S.L.); (K.S.)
| | - Hyosang Lee
- Convergence Research Advanced Centre for Olfaction, Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology (DGIST), Daegu 42988, Korea;
- Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, DGIST, Daegu 42988, Korea; (J.S.L.); (K.S.)
- Korea Brain Research Institute (KBRI), Daegu 41062, Korea
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +82-53-785-6147
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38
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Microglia Elimination Increases Neural Circuit Connectivity and Activity in Adult Mouse Cortex. J Neurosci 2020; 41:1274-1287. [PMID: 33380470 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.2140-20.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2020] [Revised: 11/16/2020] [Accepted: 12/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Microglia have crucial roles in sculpting synapses and maintaining neural circuits during development. To test the hypothesis that microglia continue to regulate neural circuit connectivity in adult brain, we have investigated the effects of chronic microglial depletion, via CSF1R inhibition, on synaptic connectivity in the visual cortex in adult mice of both sexes. We find that the absence of microglia dramatically increases both excitatory and inhibitory synaptic connections to excitatory cortical neurons assessed with functional circuit mapping experiments in acutely prepared adult brain slices. Microglia depletion leads to increased densities and intensities of perineuronal nets. Furthermore, in vivo calcium imaging across large populations of visual cortical neurons reveals enhanced neural activities of both excitatory neurons and parvalbumin-expressing interneurons in the visual cortex following microglia depletion. These changes recover following adult microglia repopulation. In summary, our new results demonstrate a prominent role of microglia in sculpting neuronal circuit connectivity and regulating subsequent functional activity in adult cortex.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Microglia are the primary immune cell of the brain, but recent evidence supports that microglia play an important role in synaptic sculpting during development. However, it remains unknown whether and how microglia regulate synaptic connectivity in adult brain. Our present work shows chronic microglia depletion in adult visual cortex induces robust increases in perineuronal nets, and enhances local excitatory and inhibitory circuit connectivity to excitatory neurons. Microglia depletion increases in vivo neural activities of both excitatory neurons and parvalbumin inhibitory neurons. Our new results reveal new potential avenues to modulate adult neural plasticity by microglia manipulation to better treat brain disorders, such as Alzheimer's disease.
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39
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Sharma K, Gordon GRJ, Tran CHT. Heterogeneity of Sensory-Induced Astrocytic Ca 2+ Dynamics During Functional Hyperemia. Front Physiol 2020; 11:611884. [PMID: 33362585 PMCID: PMC7758506 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2020.611884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2020] [Accepted: 11/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Astrocytic Ca2+ fluctuations associated with functional hyperemia have typically been measured from large cellular compartments such as the soma, the whole arbor and the endfoot. The most prominent Ca2+ event is a large magnitude, delayed signal that follows vasodilation. However, previous work has provided little information about the spatio-temporal properties of such Ca2+ transients or their heterogeneity. Here, using an awake, in vivo two-photon fluorescence-imaging model, we performed detailed profiling of delayed astrocytic Ca2+ signals across astrocytes or within individual astrocyte compartments using small regions of interest next to penetrating arterioles and capillaries along with vasomotor responses to vibrissae stimulation. We demonstrated that while a 5-s air puff that stimulates all whiskers predominantly generated reproducible functional hyperemia in the presence or absence of astrocytic Ca2+ changes, whisker stimulation inconsistently produced astrocytic Ca2+ responses. More importantly, these Ca2+ responses were heterogeneous among subcellular structures of the astrocyte and across different astrocytes that resided within the same field of view. Furthermore, we found that whisker stimulation induced discrete Ca2+ “hot spots” that spread regionally within the endfoot. These data reveal that astrocytic Ca2+ dynamics associated with the microvasculature are more complex than previously thought, and highlight the importance of considering the heterogeneity of astrocytic Ca2+ activity to fully understanding neurovascular coupling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kushal Sharma
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, Center for Molecular and Cellular Signaling in the Cardiovascular System, University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, Reno, NV, United States
| | - Grant R J Gordon
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Cam Ha T Tran
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, Center for Molecular and Cellular Signaling in the Cardiovascular System, University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, Reno, NV, United States
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40
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Ryczko D, Hanini‐Daoud M, Condamine S, Bréant BJB, Fougère M, Araya R, Kolta A. S100β‐mediated astroglial control of firing and input processing in layer 5 pyramidal neurons of the mouse visual cortex. J Physiol 2020; 599:677-707. [DOI: 10.1113/jp280501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2020] [Accepted: 11/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Dimitri Ryczko
- Département de Neurosciences Université de Montréal Montréal QC Canada
- Département de Pharmacologie‐Physiologie Université de Sherbrooke Sherbrooke QC Canada
- Centre de recherche du CHUS Sherbrooke QC Canada
- Institut de Pharmacologie de Sherbrooke Sherbrooke QC Canada
- Centre d'excellence en neurosciences de l'Université de Sherbrooke Sherbrooke QC Canada
| | | | - Steven Condamine
- Département de Neurosciences Université de Montréal Montréal QC Canada
| | | | - Maxime Fougère
- Département de Pharmacologie‐Physiologie Université de Sherbrooke Sherbrooke QC Canada
| | - Roberto Araya
- Département de Neurosciences Université de Montréal Montréal QC Canada
| | - Arlette Kolta
- Département de Neurosciences Université de Montréal Montréal QC Canada
- Faculté de Médecine Dentaire Université de Montréal Montréal QC Canada
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41
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Köhler S, Schmidt H, Fülle P, Hirrlinger J, Winkler U. A Dual Nanosensor Approach to Determine the Cytosolic Concentration of ATP in Astrocytes. Front Cell Neurosci 2020; 14:565921. [PMID: 33192312 PMCID: PMC7530325 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2020.565921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2020] [Accepted: 08/26/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) is the central energy carrier of all cells and knowledge on the dynamics of the concentration of ATP ([ATP]) provides important insights into the energetic state of a cell. Several genetically encoded fluorescent nanosensors for ATP were developed, which allow following the cytosolic [ATP] at high spatial and temporal resolution using fluorescence microscopy. However, to calibrate the fluorescent signal to [ATP] has remained challenging. To estimate basal cytosolic [ATP] ([ATP]0) in astrocytes, we here took advantage of two ATP nanosensors of the ATeam-family (ATeam1.03; ATeam1.03YEMK) with different affinities for ATP. Altering [ATP] by external stimuli resulted in characteristic pairs of signal changes of both nanosensors, which depend on [ATP]0. Using this dual nanosensor strategy and epifluorescence microscopy, [ATP]0 was estimated to be around 1.5 mM in primary cultures of cortical astrocytes from mice. Furthermore, in astrocytes in acutely isolated cortical slices from mice expressing both nanosensors after stereotactic injection of AAV-vectors, 2-photon microscopy revealed [ATP]0 of 0.7 mM to 1.3 mM. Finally, the change in [ATP] induced in the cytosol of cultured cortical astrocytes by application of azide, glutamate, and an increased extracellular concentration of K+ were calculated as −0.50 mM, −0.16 mM, and 0.07 mM, respectively. In summary, the dual nanosensor approach adds another option for determining the concentration of [ATP] to the increasing toolbox of fluorescent nanosensors for metabolites. This approach can also be applied to other metabolites when two sensors with different binding properties are available.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susanne Köhler
- Carl-Ludwig-Institute for Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Hartmut Schmidt
- Carl-Ludwig-Institute for Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Paula Fülle
- Carl-Ludwig-Institute for Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany.,Wilhelm-Ostwald-Schule, Gymnasium der Stadt Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Johannes Hirrlinger
- Carl-Ludwig-Institute for Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany.,Department of Neurogenetics, Max-Planck-Institute for Experimental Medicine, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Ulrike Winkler
- Carl-Ludwig-Institute for Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
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42
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Manninen T, Saudargiene A, Linne ML. Astrocyte-mediated spike-timing-dependent long-term depression modulates synaptic properties in the developing cortex. PLoS Comput Biol 2020; 16:e1008360. [PMID: 33170856 PMCID: PMC7654831 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pcbi.1008360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2020] [Accepted: 09/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Astrocytes have been shown to modulate synaptic transmission and plasticity in specific cortical synapses, but our understanding of the underlying molecular and cellular mechanisms remains limited. Here we present a new biophysicochemical model of a somatosensory cortical layer 4 to layer 2/3 synapse to study the role of astrocytes in spike-timing-dependent long-term depression (t-LTD) in vivo. By applying the synapse model and electrophysiological data recorded from rodent somatosensory cortex, we show that a signal from a postsynaptic neuron, orchestrated by endocannabinoids, astrocytic calcium signaling, and presynaptic N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors coupled with calcineurin signaling, induces t-LTD which is sensitive to the temporal difference between post- and presynaptic firing. We predict for the first time the dynamics of astrocyte-mediated molecular mechanisms underlying t-LTD and link complex biochemical networks at presynaptic, postsynaptic, and astrocytic sites to the time window of t-LTD induction. During t-LTD a single astrocyte acts as a delay factor for fast neuronal activity and integrates fast neuronal sensory processing with slow non-neuronal processing to modulate synaptic properties in the brain. Our results suggest that astrocytes play a critical role in synaptic computation during postnatal development and are of paramount importance in guiding the development of brain circuit functions, learning and memory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiina Manninen
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
- Department of Neurobiology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Ausra Saudargiene
- Neuroscience Institute, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Kaunas, Lithuania
- Department of Informatics, Vytautas Magnus University, Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - Marja-Leena Linne
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
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43
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Cho J, Huh Y. Astrocytic Calcium Dynamics Along the Pain Pathway. Front Cell Neurosci 2020; 14:594216. [PMID: 33192331 PMCID: PMC7596274 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2020.594216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2020] [Accepted: 09/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Astrocytes, once thought to be passive cells merely filling the space between neurons in the nervous system, are receiving attention as active modulators of the brain and spinal cord physiology by providing nutrients, maintaining homeostasis, and modulating synaptic transmission. Accumulating evidence indicates that astrocytes are critically involved in chronic pain regulation. Injury induces astrocytes to become reactive, and recent studies suggest that reactive astrocytes can have either neuroprotective or neurodegenerative effects. While the exact mechanisms underlying the transition from resting astrocytes to reactive astrocytes remain unknown, astrocytic calcium increase, coordinated by inflammatory molecules, has been suggested to trigger this transition. In this mini review article, we will discuss the roles of astrocytic calcium, channels contributing to calcium dynamics in astrocytes, astrocyte activations along the pain pathway, and possible relationships between astrocytic calcium dynamics and chronic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeiwon Cho
- Brain and Cognitive Science, Scranton College, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Yeowool Huh
- Department of Medical Science, College of Medicine, Catholic Kwandong University, Incheon, South Korea.,Translational Brain Research Center, Catholic Kwandong University, International St. Mary's Hospital, Incheon, South Korea
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44
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Semyanov A, Henneberger C, Agarwal A. Making sense of astrocytic calcium signals — from acquisition to interpretation. Nat Rev Neurosci 2020; 21:551-564. [DOI: 10.1038/s41583-020-0361-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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45
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Grieco SF, Qiao X, Zheng X, Liu Y, Chen L, Zhang H, Yu Z, Gavornik JP, Lai C, Gandhi SP, Holmes TC, Xu X. Subanesthetic Ketamine Reactivates Adult Cortical Plasticity to Restore Vision from Amblyopia. Curr Biol 2020; 30:3591-3603.e8. [PMID: 32822611 PMCID: PMC7925140 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2020.07.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2020] [Revised: 05/07/2020] [Accepted: 07/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
Subanesthetic ketamine evokes rapid and long-lasting antidepressant effects in human patients. The mechanism for ketamine's effects remains elusive, but ketamine may broadly modulate brain plasticity processes. We show that single-dose ketamine reactivates adult mouse visual cortical plasticity and promotes functional recovery of visual acuity defects from amblyopia. Ketamine specifically induces downregulation of neuregulin-1 (NRG1) expression in parvalbumin-expressing (PV) inhibitory neurons in mouse visual cortex. NRG1 downregulation in PV neurons co-tracks both the fast onset and sustained decreases in synaptic inhibition to excitatory neurons, along with reduced synaptic excitation to PV neurons in vitro and in vivo following a single ketamine treatment. These effects are blocked by exogenous NRG1 as well as PV targeted receptor knockout. Thus, ketamine reactivation of adult visual cortical plasticity is mediated through rapid and sustained cortical disinhibition via downregulation of PV-specific NRG1 signaling. Our findings reveal the neural plasticity-based mechanism for ketamine-mediated functional recovery from adult amblyopia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven F Grieco
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, School of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697-1275, USA
| | - Xin Qiao
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, School of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697-1275, USA
| | - Xiaoting Zheng
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, School of Biology, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697-1275, USA
| | - Yongjun Liu
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, School of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697-1275, USA; Key Laboratory of Pollinating Insect Biology, Institute of Agricultural Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100093, China
| | - Lujia Chen
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, School of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697-1275, USA
| | - Hai Zhang
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, School of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697-1275, USA
| | - Zhaoxia Yu
- Department of Statistics, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697-1250, USA
| | | | - Cary Lai
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN 47405-7000, USA
| | - Sunil P Gandhi
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, School of Biology, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697-1275, USA
| | - Todd C Holmes
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, School of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697- 4560, USA
| | - Xiangmin Xu
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, School of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697-1275, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697-2715, USA; Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697-4025, USA.
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46
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Bojarskaite L, Bjørnstad DM, Pettersen KH, Cunen C, Hermansen GH, Åbjørsbråten KS, Chambers AR, Sprengel R, Vervaeke K, Tang W, Enger R, Nagelhus EA. Astrocytic Ca 2+ signaling is reduced during sleep and is involved in the regulation of slow wave sleep. Nat Commun 2020; 11:3240. [PMID: 32632168 PMCID: PMC7338360 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-020-17062-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2019] [Accepted: 06/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Astrocytic Ca2+ signaling has been intensively studied in health and disease but has not been quantified during natural sleep. Here, we employ an activity-based algorithm to assess astrocytic Ca2+ signals in the neocortex of awake and naturally sleeping mice while monitoring neuronal Ca2+ activity, brain rhythms and behavior. We show that astrocytic Ca2+ signals exhibit distinct features across the sleep-wake cycle and are reduced during sleep compared to wakefulness. Moreover, an increase in astrocytic Ca2+ signaling precedes transitions from slow wave sleep to wakefulness, with a peak upon awakening exceeding the levels during whisking and locomotion. Finally, genetic ablation of an important astrocytic Ca2+ signaling pathway impairs slow wave sleep and results in an increased number of microarousals, abnormal brain rhythms, and an increased frequency of slow wave sleep state transitions and sleep spindles. Our findings demonstrate an essential role for astrocytic Ca2+ signaling in regulating slow wave sleep.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Bojarskaite
- Letten Centre and GliaLab, Division of Physiology, Department of Molecular Medicine, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, 0317, Oslo, Norway
| | - Daniel M Bjørnstad
- Letten Centre and GliaLab, Division of Physiology, Department of Molecular Medicine, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, 0317, Oslo, Norway
| | - Klas H Pettersen
- Letten Centre and GliaLab, Division of Physiology, Department of Molecular Medicine, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, 0317, Oslo, Norway
| | - Céline Cunen
- Statistics and Data Science group, Department of Mathematics, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, University of Oslo, 0316, Oslo, Norway
| | - Gudmund Horn Hermansen
- Statistics and Data Science group, Department of Mathematics, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, University of Oslo, 0316, Oslo, Norway
| | - Knut Sindre Åbjørsbråten
- Letten Centre and GliaLab, Division of Physiology, Department of Molecular Medicine, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, 0317, Oslo, Norway
| | - Anna R Chambers
- Lab for Neural Computation, Division of Physiology, Department of Molecular Medicine, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, 0317, Oslo, Norway
| | - Rolf Sprengel
- Research Group of the Max Planck Institute for Medical Research, Institute for Anatomy and Cell Biology, Heidelberg University, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Koen Vervaeke
- Lab for Neural Computation, Division of Physiology, Department of Molecular Medicine, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, 0317, Oslo, Norway
| | - Wannan Tang
- Letten Centre and GliaLab, Division of Physiology, Department of Molecular Medicine, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, 0317, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Rune Enger
- Letten Centre and GliaLab, Division of Physiology, Department of Molecular Medicine, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, 0317, Oslo, Norway.
- Division of Anatomy, Department of Molecular Medicine, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, 0317, Oslo, Norway.
- Department of Neurology, Oslo University Hospital, Rikshospitalet, 0027, Oslo, Norway.
| | - Erlend A Nagelhus
- Letten Centre and GliaLab, Division of Physiology, Department of Molecular Medicine, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, 0317, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Neurology, Oslo University Hospital, Rikshospitalet, 0027, Oslo, Norway
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47
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Romanos J, Benke D, Pietrobon D, Zeilhofer HU, Santello M. Astrocyte dysfunction increases cortical dendritic excitability and promotes cranial pain in familial migraine. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2020; 6:eaaz1584. [PMID: 32548257 PMCID: PMC7274778 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.aaz1584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2019] [Accepted: 03/25/2020] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
Astrocytes are essential contributors to neuronal function. As a consequence, disturbed astrocyte-neuron interactions are involved in the pathophysiology of several neurological disorders, with a strong impact on brain circuits and behavior. Here, we describe altered cortical physiology in a genetic mouse model of familial hemiplegic migraine type 2 (FHM2), with reduced expression of astrocytic Na+,K+-ATPases. We used whole-cell electrophysiology, two-photon microscopy, and astrocyte gene rescue to demonstrate that an impairment in astrocytic glutamate uptake promotes NMDA spike generation in dendrites of cingulate cortex pyramidal neurons and enhances output firing of these neurons. Astrocyte compensation of the defective ATPase in the cingulate cortex rescued glutamate uptake, prevented abnormal NMDA spikes, and reduced sensitivity to cranial pain triggers. Together, our results demonstrate that impaired astrocyte function alters neuronal activity in the cingulate cortex and facilitates migraine-like cranial pain states in a mouse model of migraine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Romanos
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zurich, CH-8057 Zurich, Switzerland
- Neuroscience Center Zurich, University of Zurich and ETH Zurich, CH-8057 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Dietmar Benke
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zurich, CH-8057 Zurich, Switzerland
- Neuroscience Center Zurich, University of Zurich and ETH Zurich, CH-8057 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Daniela Pietrobon
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Padova Neuroscience Center, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy
- CNR Institute of Neuroscience, Via Ugo Bassi 58/B, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Hanns Ulrich Zeilhofer
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zurich, CH-8057 Zurich, Switzerland
- Neuroscience Center Zurich, University of Zurich and ETH Zurich, CH-8057 Zurich, Switzerland
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, ETH Zurich, CH-8093 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Mirko Santello
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zurich, CH-8057 Zurich, Switzerland
- Neuroscience Center Zurich, University of Zurich and ETH Zurich, CH-8057 Zurich, Switzerland
- Corresponding author.
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48
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Felix L, Stephan J, Rose CR. Astrocytes of the early postnatal brain. Eur J Neurosci 2020; 54:5649-5672. [PMID: 32406559 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.14780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2020] [Revised: 04/30/2020] [Accepted: 05/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
In the rodent forebrain, the majority of astrocytes are generated during the early postnatal phase. Following differentiation, astrocytes undergo maturation which accompanies the development of the neuronal network. Neonate astrocytes exhibit a distinct morphology and domain size which differs to their mature counterparts. Moreover, many of the plasma membrane proteins prototypical for fully developed astrocytes are only expressed at low levels at neonatal stages. These include connexins and Kir4.1, which define the low membrane resistance and highly negative membrane potential of mature astrocytes. Newborn astrocytes moreover express only low amounts of GLT-1, a glutamate transporter critical later in development. Furthermore, they show specific differences in the properties and spatio-temporal pattern of intracellular calcium signals, resulting from differences in their repertoire of receptors and signalling pathways. Therefore, roles fulfilled by mature astrocytes, including ion and transmitter homeostasis, are underdeveloped in the young brain. Similarly, astrocytic ion signalling in response to neuronal activity, a process central to neuron-glia interaction, differs between the neonate and mature brain. This review describes the unique functional properties of astrocytes in the first weeks after birth and compares them to later stages of development. We conclude that with an immature neuronal network and wider extracellular space, astrocytic support might not be as demanding and critical compared to the mature brain. The delayed differentiation and maturation of astrocytes in the first postnatal weeks might thus reflect a reduced need for active, energy-consuming regulation of the extracellular space and a less tight control of glial feedback onto synaptic transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Felix
- Institute of Neurobiology, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Heinrich Heine University Duesseldorf, Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Jonathan Stephan
- Institute of Neurobiology, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Heinrich Heine University Duesseldorf, Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Christine R Rose
- Institute of Neurobiology, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Heinrich Heine University Duesseldorf, Duesseldorf, Germany
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49
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Abstract
Astrocytes are morphologically complex, ubiquitous cells that are viewed as a homogeneous population tiling the entire central nervous system (CNS). However, this view has been challenged in the last few years with the availability of RNA sequencing, immunohistochemistry, electron microscopy, morphological reconstruction, and imaging data. These studies suggest that astrocytes represent a diverse population of cells and that they display brain area- and disease-specific properties and functions. In this review, we summarize these observations, emphasize areas where clear conclusions can be made, and discuss potential unifying themes. We also identify knowledge gaps that need to be addressed in order to exploit astrocyte diversity as a biological phenomenon of physiological relevance in the CNS. We thus provide a summary and a perspective on astrocyte diversity in the vertebrate CNS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baljit S Khakh
- Departments of Physiology and Neurobiology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California 90095, USA;
| | - Benjamin Deneen
- Department of Neuroscience and Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, USA;
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50
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Hernandez E, MacNamee SE, Kaplan LR, Lance K, Garcia-Verdugo HD, Farhadi DS, Deer C, Lee SW, Oland LA. The astrocyte network in the ventral nerve cord neuropil of the Drosophila third-instar larva. J Comp Neurol 2020; 528:1683-1703. [PMID: 31909826 DOI: 10.1002/cne.24852] [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: 05/28/2019] [Revised: 12/19/2019] [Accepted: 12/20/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Understanding neuronal function at the local and circuit level requires understanding astrocyte function. We have provided a detailed analysis of astrocyte morphology and territory in the Drosophila third-instar ventral nerve cord where there already exists considerable understanding of the neuronal network. Astrocyte shape varies more than previously reported; many have bilaterally symmetrical partners, many have a high percentage of their arborization in adjacent segments, and many have branches that follow structural features. Taken together, our data are consistent with, but not fully explained by, a model of a developmental growth process dominated by competitive or repulsive interactions between astrocytes. Our data suggest that the model should also include cell-autonomous aspects, as well as the use of structural features for growth. Variation in location of arborization territory for identified astrocytes was great enough that a standardized scheme of neuropil division among the six astrocytes that populate each hemi-segment is not possible at the third instar. The arborizations of the astrocytes can extend across neuronal functional domains. The ventral astrocyte in particular, whose territory can extend well into the proprioceptive region of the neuropil, has no obvious branching pattern that correlates with domains of particular sensory modalities, suggesting that the astrocyte would respond to neuronal activity in any of the sensory modalities, perhaps integrating across them. This study sets the stage for future studies that will generate a robust, functionally oriented connectome that includes both partners in neuronal circuits-the neurons and the glial cells, providing the foundation necessary for studies to elucidate neuron-glia interactions in this neuropil.
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Key Words
- RRID:Abcam Cat# ab6953, RRID:AB_955010
- RRID:BDSC Cat# 30125, RRID:BDSC_30125
- RRID:BDSC Cat# 38760, RRID:BDSC_38760
- RRID:BDSC Cat# 4775, RRID:BDSC_4775
- RRID:BDSC Cat# 5692, RRID:BDSC_5692
- RRID:BDSC Cat# 64085, RRID:BDSC_64085
- RRID:BDSC Cat# 6938, RRID:BDSC_6938
- RRID:Bio-rad Cat # MCA1360, RRID:AB_322378
- RRID:Cell Signaling Technology Cat # 3724, RRID:AB_1549585
- RRID:DSHB Cat# 1D4, RRID:AB_528235
- RRID:DSHB Cat# nc82, RRID:AB_2314866
- RRID:Jackson ImmunoResearch Labs Cat# 115-167-003, RRID:AB_2338709
- RRID:Molecular Probes Cat# 6455, RRID:AB_2314543
- RRID:Molecular Probes Cat# A-21236, RRID:AB_141725
- RRID:Novus Cat # NBP1-06712, RRID:AB_1625981
- RRID:Thermo Fisher Scientific Cat# A-11034, RRID:AB_2576217.
- glial cells
- neuron-glia interaction
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Affiliation(s)
- Ernesto Hernandez
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona.,University of Illinois at Chicago School of Medicine, Rockford, Illinois
| | - Sarah E MacNamee
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona.,Inscopix, Palo Alto, California
| | - Leah R Kaplan
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona.,Consortium for Science, Policy & Outcomes, Arizona State University, Washington, DC, Washington
| | - Kim Lance
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona
| | | | - Dara S Farhadi
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona.,College of Medicine-Phoenix, University of Arizona, Phoenix, Arizona
| | - Christine Deer
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona.,Research Technologies Group, Data Visualization Team, University of Arizona, University Information Technology Service, Tucson, Arizona
| | - Si W Lee
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona
| | - Lynne A Oland
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona
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