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Pravikova PD, Arssan MA, Zalivina EA, Kondaurova EM, Kulikova EA, Belokopytova II, Naumenko VS. Dopamine receptors and key elements of the neurotrophins (BDNF, CDNF) expression patterns during critical periods of ontogenesis in the brain structures of mice with autism-like behavior (BTBR) or its absence (С57BL/6 J). Vavilovskii Zhurnal Genet Selektsii 2024; 28:407-415. [PMID: 39027124 PMCID: PMC11253014 DOI: 10.18699/vjgb-24-46] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Revised: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Analysis of the mechanisms underlying autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is an urgent task due to the ever-increasing prevalence of this condition. The study of critical periods of neuroontogenesis is of interest, since the manifestation of ASD is often associated with prenatal disorders of the brain development. One of the currently promising hypotheses postulates a connection between the pathogenesis of ASD and the dysfunction of neurotransmitters and neurotrophins. In this study, we investigated the expression of key dopamine receptors (Drd1, Drd2), brain-derived neurotrophic factor (Bdnf), its receptors (Ntrkb2, Ngfr) and the transcription factor Creb1 that mediates BDNF action, as well as cerebral dopamine neurotrophic factor (Cdnf) during the critical periods of embryogenesis (e14 and e18) and postnatal development (p14, p28, p60) in the hippocampus and frontal cortex of BTBR mice with autism-like behavior compared to the neurotypical C57BL/6 J strain. In BTBR embryos, on the 14th day of prenatal development, an increase in the expression of the Ngfr gene encoding the p75NTR receptor, which may lead to the activation of apoptosis, was found in the hippocampus and frontal cortex. A decrease in the expression of Cdnf, Bdnf and its receptor Ntrkb2, as well as dopamine receptors (Drd1, Drd2) was detected in BTBR mice in the postnatal period of ontogenesis mainly in the frontal cortex, while in the hippocampus of mature mice (p60), only a decrease in the Drd2 mRNA level was revealed. The obtained results suggest that the decrease in the expression levels of CDNF, BDNF-TrkB and dopamine receptors in the frontal cortex in the postnatal period can lead to significant changes in both the morphology of neurons and dopamine neurotransmission in cortical brain structures. At the same time, the increase in p75NTR receptor gene expression observed on the 14th day of embryogenesis, crucial for hippocampus and frontal cortex development, may have direct relevance to the manifestation of early autism.
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Affiliation(s)
- P D Pravikova
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - M A Arssan
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - E A Zalivina
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - E M Kondaurova
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - E A Kulikova
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - I I Belokopytova
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - V S Naumenko
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, Russia
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2
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Turkistani A, Al-kuraishy HM, Al-Gareeb AI, Albuhadily AK, Elhussieny O, AL-Farga A, Aqlan F, Saad HM, Batiha GES. The functional and molecular roles of p75 neurotrophin receptor (p75 NTR) in epilepsy. J Cent Nerv Syst Dis 2024; 16:11795735241247810. [PMID: 38655152 PMCID: PMC11036928 DOI: 10.1177/11795735241247810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Epilepsy is a chronic neurological disorder manifested by recurring unprovoked seizures resulting from an imbalance in the inhibitory and excitatory neurotransmitters in the brain. The process of epileptogenesis involves a complex interplay between the reduction of inhibitory gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and the enhancement of excitatory glutamate. Pro-BDNF/p75NTR expression is augmented in both glial cells and neurons following epileptic seizures and status epileptics (SE). Over-expression of p75NTR is linked with the pathogenesis of epilepsy, and augmentation of pro-BDNF/p75NTR is implicated in the pathogenesis of epilepsy. However, the precise mechanistic function of p75NTR in epilepsy has not been completely elucidated. Therefore, this review aimed to revise the mechanistic pathway of p75NTR in epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Areej Turkistani
- Department of pharmacology and toxicology, Collage of Medicine, Taif University, Taif, Kingdom of Saudi
| | - Hayder M. Al-kuraishy
- Professor in department of clinical pharmacology and medicine, college of medicine, Mustansiriyah University, Baghdad, Iraq
| | - Ali I. Al-Gareeb
- Professor in department of clinical pharmacology and medicine, college of medicine, Mustansiriyah University, Baghdad, Iraq
| | - Ali K. Albuhadily
- Professor in department of clinical pharmacology and medicine, college of medicine, Mustansiriyah University, Baghdad, Iraq
| | - Omnya Elhussieny
- Department of Histology and Cytology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Matrouh University, Marsa Matruh, Egypt
| | - Ammar AL-Farga
- Biochemistry Department, College of Sciences, University of Jeddah, Jeddah, Saudia Arbia
| | - Faisal Aqlan
- Department of Chemistry, College of Sciences, Ibb University, Ibb Governorate, Yemen
| | - Hebatallah M. Saad
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Matrouh University, Matrouh, Egypt
| | - Gaber El-Saber Batiha
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Damanhour University, Damanhour, Egypt
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3
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Shkundin A, Halaris A. Associations of BDNF/BDNF-AS SNPs with Depression, Schizophrenia, and Bipolar Disorder. J Pers Med 2023; 13:1395. [PMID: 37763162 PMCID: PMC10533016 DOI: 10.3390/jpm13091395] [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: 08/19/2023] [Revised: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) is crucial for various aspects of neuronal development and function, including synaptic plasticity, neurotransmitter release, and supporting neuronal differentiation, growth, and survival. It is involved in the formation and preservation of dopaminergic, serotonergic, GABAergic, and cholinergic neurons, facilitating efficient stimulus transmission within the synaptic system and contributing to learning, memory, and overall cognition. Furthermore, BDNF demonstrates involvement in neuroinflammation and showcases neuroprotective effects. In contrast, BDNF antisense RNA (BDNF-AS) is linked to the regulation and control of BDNF, facilitating its suppression and contributing to neurotoxicity, apoptosis, and decreased cell viability. This review article aims to comprehensively overview the significance of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in BDNF/BDNF-AS genes within psychiatric conditions, with a specific focus on their associations with depression, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder. The independent influence of each BDNF/BDNF-AS gene variation, as well as the interplay between SNPs and their linkage disequilibrium, environmental factors, including early-life experiences, and interactions with other genes, lead to alterations in brain architecture and function, shaping vulnerability to mental health disorders. The potential translational applications of BDNF/BDNF-AS polymorphism knowledge can revolutionize personalized medicine, predict disease susceptibility, treatment outcomes, and guide the selection of interventions tailored to individual patients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Angelos Halaris
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine, Loyola University Medical Center, Maywood, IL 60153, USA
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4
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Ilchibaeva T, Tsybko A, Lipnitskaya M, Eremin D, Milutinovich K, Naumenko V, Popova N. Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) in Mechanisms of Autistic-like Behavior in BTBR Mice: Crosstalk with the Dopaminergic Brain System. Biomedicines 2023; 11:biomedicines11051482. [PMID: 37239153 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11051482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Revised: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Disturbances in neuroplasticity undoubtedly play an important role in the development of autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). Brain neurotransmitters and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) are known as crucial players in cerebral and behavioral plasticity. Such an important neurotransmitter as dopamine (DA) is involved in the behavioral inflexibility of ASD. Additionally, much evidence from human and animal studies implicates BDNF in ASD pathogenesis. Nonetheless, crosstalk between BDNF and the DA system has not been studied in the context of an autistic-like phenotype. For this reason, the aim of our study was to compare the effects of either the acute intracerebroventricular administration of a recombinant BDNF protein or hippocampal adeno-associated-virus-mediated BDNF overexpression on autistic-like behavior and expression of key DA-related and BDNF-related genes in BTBR mice (a widely recognized model of autism). The BDNF administration failed to affect autistic-like behavior but downregulated Comt mRNA in the frontal cortex and hippocampus; however, COMT protein downregulation in the hippocampus and upregulation in the striatum were insignificant. BDNF administration also reduced the receptor TrkB level in the frontal cortex and midbrain and the BDNF/proBDNF ratio in the striatum. In contrast, hippocampal BDNF overexpression significantly diminished stereotypical behavior and anxiety; these alterations were accompanied only by higher hippocampal DA receptor D1 mRNA levels. The results indicate an important role of BDNF in mechanisms underlying anxiety and repetitive behavior in ASDs and implicates BDNF-DA crosstalk in the autistic-like phenotype of BTBR mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatiana Ilchibaeva
- Federal Research Center Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences, Prospekt Akad. Lavrentyeva 10, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Anton Tsybko
- Federal Research Center Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences, Prospekt Akad. Lavrentyeva 10, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Marina Lipnitskaya
- Federal Research Center Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences, Prospekt Akad. Lavrentyeva 10, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Dmitry Eremin
- Federal Research Center Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences, Prospekt Akad. Lavrentyeva 10, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Kseniya Milutinovich
- Federal Research Center Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences, Prospekt Akad. Lavrentyeva 10, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Vladimir Naumenko
- Federal Research Center Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences, Prospekt Akad. Lavrentyeva 10, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Nina Popova
- Federal Research Center Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences, Prospekt Akad. Lavrentyeva 10, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia
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Adıgüzel E, Çiçek B, Ünal G, Aydın MF, Barlak-Keti D. Probiotics and prebiotics alleviate behavioral deficits, inflammatory response, and gut dysbiosis in prenatal VPA-induced rodent model of autism. Physiol Behav 2022; 256:113961. [PMID: 36100109 DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2022.113961] [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: 05/24/2022] [Revised: 08/07/2022] [Accepted: 09/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders are neuropsychiatric conditions characterized by social interaction and communication disorders and repetitive stereotypical behaviors. These disorders are also accompanied by an inflammatory status. Bidirectional communication between microbiome, gut, and brain has been discovered as a major mechanism influencing core symptoms and biomarkers of autism. Therefore, the modulation of the gut microbiota in autism has recently attracted interest. In this study, probiotic- and prebiotic-mediated modulation of the gut microbiota was compared in terms of different symptoms and findings in an experimental autism model. Valproic acid (VPA) (500 mg/kg) was administered to Wistar rats (on prenatal day 12.5) to induce autistic-like behaviors. Based on the supply of probiotics and prebiotics, animals were grouped as control (saline), autistic-like (prenatal VPA), probiotic (prenatal VPA + 22.5 × 109 cfu/day probiotic), prebiotic (prenatal VPA + 100 mg/day prebiotic), and combined treatment (prenatal VPA + 22.5 × 109 cfu/day probiotic + 100 mg/day prebiotic). After the treatment process, behavioral tests (social behaviors, anxiety, stereotypical behavior, sensorimotor gating, and behavioral despair) and biochemical analyses (serum and brain tissue) were conducted, and the quantities of some phyla and genera were determined in stool samples. Significant positive effects of probiotic and combined treatments were observed on the sociability, social interaction, and anxiety parameters. In addition, all three treatments had positive effects on stereotypical behavior. However, the treatments did not affect sensorimotor gating deficits and behavioral despair. Further, probiotic treatment reversed the VPA-induced increase and decrease in serum IL-6 and IL-10 levels, respectively. Combined treatment also significantly increased the IL-10 levels. Prenatal VPA exposure decreased 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) levels in the prefrontal cortex of the brain; however, combined treatment reversed this decrease. Prenatal VPA exposure also caused a decrease in Bacteroidetes/Firmicutes ratio in the gut microbiota, while the probiotic treatment significantly increased this ratio. These findings indicate that probiotic- and prebiotic-mediated microbial modulation may represent a new therapeutic approach to alleviate autistic-like symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emre Adıgüzel
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, Karamanoğlu Mehmetbey University, İbrahim Öktem Street, Karaman 70200, Turkey.
| | - Betül Çiçek
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey.
| | - Gökhan Ünal
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey.
| | - Mehmet Fatih Aydın
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Karamanoğlu Mehmetbey University, Karaman, Turkey,.
| | - Didem Barlak-Keti
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Medical School, Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey.
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6
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The role of maternal immune activation in the immunological and neurological pathogenesis of autism. JOURNAL OF NEURORESTORATOLOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jnrt.2022.100030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
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7
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BDNF, proBDNF and IGF-1 serum levels in naïve and medicated subjects with autism. Sci Rep 2022; 12:13768. [PMID: 35962006 PMCID: PMC9374711 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-17503-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) promote the development and maintenance of neural circuits. Alterations in these factors might contribute to autism spectrum disorder (ASD). We asked whether serum BDNF, proBDNF, and IGF-1 levels are altered in an ASD population compared to controls. We measured serum BDNF, proBDNF, and IGF-1 immunoreactive protein in boys and girls aged 5–15 years old with mild to moderate ASD and non-autistic controls by ELISA. IGF-1 was increased in ASD serum compared to controls and was correlated with age and with CARS scores. Serum BDNF levels did not differ between groups, however, proBDNF serum levels were decreased in subjects with ASD compared to non-autistic controls. Medicated, but not unmedicated, ASD subjects exhibited lower serum proBDNF levels compared to controls, while neither IGF-1 nor BDNF levels differed between treatment groups. These data support the involvement of proBDNF and IGF-1 in the pathogenesis and treatment of autism.
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8
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Han YMY, Yau SY, Chan MMY, Wong CK, Chan AS. Altered Cytokine and BDNF Levels in Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders. Brain Sci 2022; 12:brainsci12040460. [PMID: 35447993 PMCID: PMC9026457 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci12040460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2022] [Revised: 03/20/2022] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Previous studies have shown that immunological factors are involved in the pathogenesis of autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). The present study examined whether immunological abnormalities are associated with cognitive and behavioral deficits in children with ASD and whether children with ASD show different immunological biomarkers and brain-derived neurotrophic factor BDNF levels than typically developing (TD) children. Sixteen children with TD and 18 children with ASD, aged 6–18 years, voluntarily participated in the study. Participants’ executive functions were measured using neuropsychological tests, and behavioral measures were measured using parent ratings. Immunological measures were assessed by measuring the participants’ blood serum levels of chemokine ligand 2 (CCL2) and chemokine ligand 5 (CCL5). Children with ASD showed greater deficits in cognitive functions as well as altered levels of immunological measures when compared to TD children, and their cognitive functions and behavioral deficits were significantly associated with increased CCL5 levels and decreased BDNF levels. These results provide evidence to support the notion that altered immune functions and neurotrophin deficiency are involved in the pathogenesis of ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yvonne M. Y. Han
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong SAR, China; (S.-Y.Y.); (M.M.Y.C.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +852-2766-7578
| | - Suk-Yu Yau
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong SAR, China; (S.-Y.Y.); (M.M.Y.C.)
| | - Melody M. Y. Chan
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong SAR, China; (S.-Y.Y.); (M.M.Y.C.)
| | - Chun-Kwok Wong
- Department of Chemical Pathology, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China;
| | - Agnes S. Chan
- Department of Psychology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China;
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9
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Shekari A, Fahnestock M. Retrograde Axonal Transport of Neurotrophins in Basal Forebrain Cholinergic Neurons. Methods Mol Biol 2022; 2431:249-270. [PMID: 35412281 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-1990-2_13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Axonal transport is key for the survival and function of all neurons. This process is especially important in basal forebrain cholinergic neurons due to their extremely long and diffuse axonal projections. These neurons are critical for learning and memory and degenerate rapidly in age-related neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease. The vulnerability of these neurons to age-related neurodegeneration may be partially attributed to their reliance on retrograde axonal transport for neurotrophic support. Unfortunately, little is known about the molecular biology underlying the retrograde transport dynamics of these neurons due to the difficulty associated with their maintenance in vitro. Here, we outline a protocol for culturing primary rodent basal forebrain cholinergic neurons in microfluidic chambers, devices designed specifically for the study of axonal transport in vitro. We outline protocols for labeling neurotrophins and tracking neurotrophin transport in these neurons. Our protocols can also be used to study axonal transport in other types of primary neurons such as cortical and hippocampal neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arman Shekari
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Margaret Fahnestock
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada.
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10
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Buck JM, Yu L, Knopik VS, Stitzel JA. DNA methylome perturbations: an epigenetic basis for the emergingly heritable neurodevelopmental abnormalities associated with maternal smoking and maternal nicotine exposure†. Biol Reprod 2021; 105:644-666. [PMID: 34270696 PMCID: PMC8444709 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioab138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2021] [Revised: 06/29/2021] [Accepted: 07/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Maternal smoking during pregnancy is associated with an ensemble of neurodevelopmental consequences in children and therefore constitutes a pressing public health concern. Adding to this burden, contemporary epidemiological and especially animal model research suggests that grandmaternal smoking is similarly associated with neurodevelopmental abnormalities in grandchildren, indicative of intergenerational transmission of the neurodevelopmental impacts of maternal smoking. Probing the mechanistic bases of neurodevelopmental anomalies in the children of maternal smokers and the intergenerational transmission thereof, emerging research intimates that epigenetic changes, namely DNA methylome perturbations, are key factors. Altogether, these findings warrant future research to fully elucidate the etiology of neurodevelopmental impairments in the children and grandchildren of maternal smokers and underscore the clear potential thereof to benefit public health by informing the development and implementation of preventative measures, prophylactics, and treatments. To this end, the present review aims to encapsulate the burgeoning evidence linking maternal smoking to intergenerational epigenetic inheritance of neurodevelopmental abnormalities, to identify the strengths and weaknesses thereof, and to highlight areas of emphasis for future human and animal model research therein.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordan M Buck
- Institute for Behavioral Genetics, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, USA
- Department of Integrative Physiology, University of Colorado, Boulder, Boulder, CO, USA
| | - Li Yu
- Department of Human Development and Family Studies, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | - Valerie S Knopik
- Department of Human Development and Family Studies, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | - Jerry A Stitzel
- Institute for Behavioral Genetics, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, USA
- Department of Integrative Physiology, University of Colorado, Boulder, Boulder, CO, USA
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11
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Fecal Transplant and Bifidobacterium Treatments Modulate Gut Clostridium Bacteria and Rescue Social Impairment and Hippocampal BDNF Expression in a Rodent Model of Autism. Brain Sci 2021; 11:brainsci11081038. [PMID: 34439657 PMCID: PMC8391663 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci11081038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2021] [Revised: 08/03/2021] [Accepted: 08/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism is associated with gastrointestinal dysfunction and gut microbiota dysbiosis, including an overall increase in Clostridium. Modulation of the gut microbiota is suggested to improve autistic symptoms. In this study, we explored the implementation of two different interventions that target the microbiota in a rodent model of autism and their effects on social behavior: the levels of different fecal Clostridium spp., and hippocampal transcript levels. Autism was induced in young Sprague Dawley male rats using oral gavage of propionic acid (PPA) for three days, while controls received saline. PPA-treated animals were divided to receive either saline, fecal transplant from healthy donor rats, or Bifidobacterium for 22 days, while controls continued to receive saline. We found that PPA attenuated social interaction in animals, which was rescued by the two interventions. PPA-treated animals had a significantly increased abundance of fecal C. perfringens with a concomitant decrease in Clostridium cluster IV, and exhibited high hippocampal Bdnf expression compared to controls. Fecal microbiota transplantation or Bifidobacterium treatment restored the balance of fecal Clostridium spp. and normalized the level of Bdnf expression. These findings highlight the involvement of the gut-brain axis in the etiology of autism and propose possible interventions in a preclinical model of autism.
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12
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Fetit R, Hillary RF, Price DJ, Lawrie SM. The neuropathology of autism: A systematic review of post-mortem studies of autism and related disorders. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2021; 129:35-62. [PMID: 34273379 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2021.07.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2021] [Revised: 05/13/2021] [Accepted: 07/10/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Post-mortem studies allow for the direct investigation of brain tissue in those with autism and related disorders. Several review articles have focused on aspects of post-mortem abnormalities but none has brought together the entire post-mortem literature. Here, we systematically review the evidence from post-mortem studies of autism, and of related disorders that present with autistic features. The literature consists of a small body of studies with small sample sizes, but several remarkably consistent findings are evident. Cortical layering is largely undisturbed, but there are consistent reductions in minicolumn numbers and aberrant myelination. Transcriptomics repeatedly implicate abberant synaptic, metabolic, proliferation, apoptosis and immune pathways. Sufficient replicated evidence is available to implicate non-coding RNA, aberrant epigenetic profiles, GABAergic, glutamatergic and glial dysfunction in autism pathogenesis. Overall, the cerebellum and frontal cortex are most consistently implicated, sometimes revealing distinct region-specific alterations. The literature on related disorders such as Rett syndrome, Fragile X and copy number variations (CNVs) predisposing to autism is particularly small and inconclusive. Larger studies, matched for gender, developmental stage, co-morbidities and drug treatment are required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rana Fetit
- Simons Initiative for the Developing Brain, University of Edinburgh, Hugh Robson Building, George Square, Edinburgh, EH8 9XD, UK.
| | - Robert F Hillary
- Centre for Genomic and Experimental Medicine, Institute of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH4 2XU, UK
| | - David J Price
- Simons Initiative for the Developing Brain, University of Edinburgh, Hugh Robson Building, George Square, Edinburgh, EH8 9XD, UK
| | - Stephen M Lawrie
- Division of Psychiatry, Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH10 5HF, UK; Patrick Wild Centre, Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH10 5HF, UK
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13
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Way H, Williams G, Hausman-Cohen S, Reeder J. Genomics as a Clinical Decision Support Tool: Successful Proof of Concept for Improved ASD Outcomes. J Pers Med 2021; 11:jpm11070596. [PMID: 34202628 PMCID: PMC8305264 DOI: 10.3390/jpm11070596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2021] [Revised: 06/22/2021] [Accepted: 06/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Considerable evidence is emerging that Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is most often triggered by a range of different genetic variants that interact with environmental factors such as exposures to toxicants and changes to the food supply. Up to 80% of genetic variations that contribute to ASD found to date are neither extremely rare nor classified as pathogenic. Rather, they are less common single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), found in 1-15% or more of the population, that by themselves are not disease-causing. These genomic variants contribute to ASD by interacting with each other, along with nutritional and environmental factors. Examples of pathways affected or triggered include those related to brain inflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction, neuronal connectivity, synapse formation, impaired detoxification, methylation, and neurotransmitter-related effects. This article presents information on four case study patients that are part of a larger ongoing pilot study. A genomic clinical decision support (CDS) tool that specifically focuses on variants and pathways that have been associated with neurodevelopmental disorders was used in this pilot study to help develop a targeted, personalized prevention and intervention strategy for each child. In addition to an individual's genetic makeup, each patient's personal history, diet, and environmental factors were considered. The CDS tool also looked at genomic SNPs associated with secondary comorbid ASD conditions including attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), anxiety, and pediatric autoimmune neuropsychiatric disorder associated with streptococcal infections/pediatric acute-onset neuropsychiatric syndrome (PANDAS/PANS). The interpreted genomics tool helped the treating clinician identify and develop personalized, genomically targeted treatment plans. Utilization of this treatment approach was associated with significant improvements in socialization and verbal skills, academic milestones and intelligence quotient (IQ), and overall increased ability to function in these children, as measured by autism treatment evaluation checklist (ATEC) scores and parent interviews.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heather Way
- The Australian Centre for Genomic Analysis, Brisbane, QLD 4069, Australia;
| | | | - Sharon Hausman-Cohen
- IntellxxDNA™, Austin, TX 78731, USA; (G.W.); (J.R.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-512-717-3300
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14
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Nicolini C, Nelson AJ. Current Methodological Pitfalls and Caveats in the Assessment of Exercise-Induced Changes in Peripheral Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor: How Result Reproducibility Can Be Improved. FRONTIERS IN NEUROERGONOMICS 2021; 2:678541. [PMID: 38235217 PMCID: PMC10790889 DOI: 10.3389/fnrgo.2021.678541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Accepted: 05/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2024]
Abstract
Neural mechanisms, such as enhanced neuroplasticity within the motor system, underpin exercise-induced motor improvements. Being a key mediator of motor plasticity, brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is likely to play an important role in mediating exercise positive effects on motor function. Difficulties in assessing brain BDNF levels in humans have drawn attention to quantification of blood BDNF and raise the question of whether peripheral BDNF contributes to exercise-related motor improvements. Methodological and non-methodological factors influence measurements of blood BDNF introducing a substantial variability that complicates result interpretation and leads to inconsistencies among studies. Here, we discuss methodology-related issues and approaches emerging from current findings to reduce variability and increase result reproducibility.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Aimee J. Nelson
- Department of Kinesiology, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
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15
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Robinson-Agramonte MDLA, Michalski B, Fernández LG, Vidal-Martinez B, Cuesta HV, Rizo CM, Fahnestock M. Effect of non-invasive brain stimulation on behavior and serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor and insulin-like growth factor-1 levels in autistic patients. Drug Dev Res 2021; 82:716-723. [PMID: 33734467 DOI: 10.1002/ddr.21808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2020] [Revised: 02/20/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Aberrant neural connectivity and intra-cortical inhibitory dysfunction are key features of autism. Non-invasive brain stimulation (NIBS) protocols have been proposed that modulate this aberrant plasticity. However, additional investigations are needed to evaluate the impact of this intervention on biological biomarkers of the disease. We recently demonstrated alterations in serum insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) immunoreactivity in subjects with autism compared to controls. The aim of this pilot study was to explore the change in serum levels of the neurotrophic factors BDNF and IGF-1 in patients undergoing NIBS therapy. Sixteen subjects with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) were tested 1 week before and 1 week after NIBS to determine the short-term outcome on behavior using the total score on the autism behavior checklist, autism treatment evaluation checklist, clinical global impression severity and the autism diagnostic interview. ASD subjects younger than 11 years old (n = 11) were treated with transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), and those 11 years and older (n = 5) were treated with repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS). Serum levels of BDNF and IGF-1 were evaluated by Enzyme-Linked Immuno-Sorbent Assay before and after the intervention with NIBS. A significant reduction in scores on the clinical behavioral scales was observed in patients treated with NIBS (ABC-T p = .002, CGI-S p = .008, ADI-T and ATEC-T p < .0001). There was a trend towards reduced serum BDNF levels after NIBS (p = .061), while there was no change in IGF-1 levels. These data support further studies on the potential of BDNF as a biomarker to measure the effectiveness of NIBS in autism.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Bernadeta Michalski
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Lázaro Gomez Fernández
- Clinical Neurophysiology Department, International Center for Neurological Restoration, Havana, Cuba
| | - Belkis Vidal-Martinez
- Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service, Borrás-Marfán University Hospital, Havana, Cuba
| | - Hector Vera Cuesta
- Childhood Neurology Unit, International Center for Neurological Restoration, Havana, Cuba
| | - Carlos Maragoto Rizo
- Childhood Neurology Unit, International Center for Neurological Restoration, Havana, Cuba
| | - Margaret Fahnestock
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
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16
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Liloia D, Mancuso L, Uddin LQ, Costa T, Nani A, Keller R, Manuello J, Duca S, Cauda F. Gray matter abnormalities follow non-random patterns of co-alteration in autism: Meta-connectomic evidence. Neuroimage Clin 2021; 30:102583. [PMID: 33618237 PMCID: PMC7903137 DOI: 10.1016/j.nicl.2021.102583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2020] [Revised: 12/15/2020] [Accepted: 01/30/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by atypical brain anatomy and connectivity. Graph-theoretical methods have mainly been applied to detect altered patterns of white matter tracts and functional brain activation in individuals with ASD. The network topology of gray matter (GM) abnormalities in ASD remains relatively unexplored. METHODS An innovative meta-connectomic analysis on voxel-based morphometry data (45 experiments, 1,786 subjects with ASD) was performed in order to investigate whether GM variations can develop in a distinct pattern of co-alteration across the brain. This pattern was then compared with normative profiles of structural and genetic co-expression maps. Graph measures of centrality and clustering were also applied to identify brain areas with the highest topological hierarchy and core sub-graph components within the co-alteration network observed in ASD. RESULTS Individuals with ASD exhibit a distinctive and topologically defined pattern of GM co-alteration that moderately follows the structural connectivity constraints. This was not observed with respect to the pattern of genetic co-expression. Hub regions of the co-alteration network were mainly left-lateralized, encompassing the precuneus, ventral anterior cingulate, and middle occipital gyrus. Regions of the default mode network appear to be central in the topology of co-alterations. CONCLUSION These findings shed new light on the pathobiology of ASD, suggesting a network-level dysfunction among spatially distributed GM regions. At the same time, this study supports pathoconnectomics as an insightful approach to better understand neuropsychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donato Liloia
- GCS-fMRI, Koelliker Hospital and Department of Psychology, University of Turin, Turin, Italy; Functional Neuroimaging and Complex Neural Systems (FOCUS) Laboratory, Department of Psychology, University of Turin, Turin, Italy.
| | - Lorenzo Mancuso
- GCS-fMRI, Koelliker Hospital and Department of Psychology, University of Turin, Turin, Italy; Functional Neuroimaging and Complex Neural Systems (FOCUS) Laboratory, Department of Psychology, University of Turin, Turin, Italy.
| | - Lucina Q Uddin
- Department of Psychology, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, USA; Neuroscience Program, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA.
| | - Tommaso Costa
- GCS-fMRI, Koelliker Hospital and Department of Psychology, University of Turin, Turin, Italy; Functional Neuroimaging and Complex Neural Systems (FOCUS) Laboratory, Department of Psychology, University of Turin, Turin, Italy; Neuroscience Institute of Turin (NIT), Turin, Italy.
| | - Andrea Nani
- GCS-fMRI, Koelliker Hospital and Department of Psychology, University of Turin, Turin, Italy; Functional Neuroimaging and Complex Neural Systems (FOCUS) Laboratory, Department of Psychology, University of Turin, Turin, Italy.
| | - Roberto Keller
- Adult Autism Center, DSM Local Health Unit, ASL TO, Turin, Italy.
| | - Jordi Manuello
- GCS-fMRI, Koelliker Hospital and Department of Psychology, University of Turin, Turin, Italy; Functional Neuroimaging and Complex Neural Systems (FOCUS) Laboratory, Department of Psychology, University of Turin, Turin, Italy.
| | - Sergio Duca
- GCS-fMRI, Koelliker Hospital and Department of Psychology, University of Turin, Turin, Italy; Functional Neuroimaging and Complex Neural Systems (FOCUS) Laboratory, Department of Psychology, University of Turin, Turin, Italy.
| | - Franco Cauda
- GCS-fMRI, Koelliker Hospital and Department of Psychology, University of Turin, Turin, Italy; Functional Neuroimaging and Complex Neural Systems (FOCUS) Laboratory, Department of Psychology, University of Turin, Turin, Italy; Neuroscience Institute of Turin (NIT), Turin, Italy.
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17
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Liu SH, Shi XJ, Fan FC, Cheng Y. Peripheral blood neurotrophic factor levels in children with autism spectrum disorder: a meta-analysis. Sci Rep 2021; 11:15. [PMID: 33420109 PMCID: PMC7794512 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-79080-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2020] [Accepted: 11/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Increasing evidence suggests that abnormal regulation of neurotrophic factors is involved in the etiology and pathogenesis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). However, clinical data on neurotrophic factor levels in children with ASD were inconsistent. Therefore, we performed a systematic review of peripheral blood neurotrophic factors levels in children with ASD, and quantitatively summarized the clinical data of peripheral blood neurotrophic factors in ASD children and healthy controls. A systematic search of PubMed and Web of Science identified 31 studies with 2627 ASD children and 4418 healthy controls to be included in the meta-analysis. The results of random effect meta-analysis showed that the peripheral blood levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (Hedges’ g = 0.302; 95% CI = 0.014 to 0.591; P = 0.040) , nerve growth factor (Hedges’ g = 0.395; 95% CI = 0.104 to 0.686; P = 0.008) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) (Hedges’ g = 0.097; 95% CI = 0.018 to 0.175; P = 0.016) in children with ASD were significantly higher than that of healthy controls, whereas blood neurotrophin-3 (Hedges’ g = − 0.795; 95% CI = − 1.723 to 0.134; P = 0.093) and neurotrophin-4 (Hedges’ g = 0.182; 95% CI = − 0.285 to 0.650; P = 0.445) levels did not show significant differences between cases and controls. Taken together, these results clarified circulating neurotrophic factor profile in children with ASD, strengthening clinical evidence of neurotrophic factor aberrations in children with ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shu-Han Liu
- Center On Translational Neuroscience, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Minzu University of China, 27 South Zhongguancun Avenue, Zhongguancun South St, Haidian District, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Xiao-Jie Shi
- Center On Translational Neuroscience, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Minzu University of China, 27 South Zhongguancun Avenue, Zhongguancun South St, Haidian District, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Fang-Cheng Fan
- Center On Translational Neuroscience, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Minzu University of China, 27 South Zhongguancun Avenue, Zhongguancun South St, Haidian District, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Yong Cheng
- Center On Translational Neuroscience, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Minzu University of China, 27 South Zhongguancun Avenue, Zhongguancun South St, Haidian District, Beijing, 100081, China.
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18
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Le Blanc J, Fleury S, Boukhatem I, Bélanger JC, Welman M, Lordkipanidzé M. Platelets Selectively Regulate the Release of BDNF, But Not That of Its Precursor Protein, proBDNF. Front Immunol 2020; 11:575607. [PMID: 33324399 PMCID: PMC7723927 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.575607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2020] [Accepted: 10/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) plays a role in synaptic plasticity and neuroprotection. BDNF has well-established pro-survival effects, whereas its precursor protein, proBDNF, induces apoptosis. Thus, it has been suggested that the proBDNF/BDNF ratio could be an indicator of neuronal health. Access to neurons is, understandably, limited. Because of their similarities, platelets have been put forward as a non-invasive biomarker of neuronal health; indeed, they store large quantities of BDNF and can release it into circulation upon activation, similarly to neurons. However, whether platelets also express the precursor proBDNF protein remains unknown. We therefore sought to characterize proBDNF levels in human platelets and plasma. Methods The presence of proBDNF was assessed by immunoblotting, cell fractionation, flow cytometry, and confocal microscopy in washed platelets from 10 healthy volunteers. Platelets from 20 independent healthy volunteers were activated with several classical agonists and the release of BDNF and proBDNF into plasma was quantified by ELISA. Results Platelets expressed detectable levels of proBDNF (21 ± 13 fmol/250 x 106 platelets). ProBDNF expression was mainly localized in the intracellular compartment. The proBDNF to BDNF molar ratio was ~1:5 in platelets and 10:1 in plasma. In stark contrast to the release of BDNF during platelet activation, intraplatelet and plasma concentrations of proBDNF remained stable following stimulation with classical platelet agonists, consistent with non-granular expression. Conclusions Platelets express both the mature and the precursor form of BDNF. Whether the intraplatelet proBDNF to BDNF ratio could be used as a non-invasive biomarker of cognitive health warrants further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Le Blanc
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada.,Research Center, Montreal Heart Institute, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Samuel Fleury
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada.,Research Center, Montreal Heart Institute, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Imane Boukhatem
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada.,Research Center, Montreal Heart Institute, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Jean-Christophe Bélanger
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada.,Research Center, Montreal Heart Institute, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Mélanie Welman
- Research Center, Montreal Heart Institute, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Marie Lordkipanidzé
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada.,Research Center, Montreal Heart Institute, Montréal, QC, Canada
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19
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Cappoli N, Tabolacci E, Aceto P, Dello Russo C. The emerging role of the BDNF-TrkB signaling pathway in the modulation of pain perception. J Neuroimmunol 2020; 349:577406. [PMID: 33002723 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneuroim.2020.577406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2020] [Revised: 09/15/2020] [Accepted: 09/22/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is a crucial neuromodulator in pain transmission both in peripheral and central nervous system (CNS). Despite evidence of a pro-nociceptive role of BDNF, recent studies have reported contrasting results, including anti-nociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities. Moreover, BDNF polymorphisms can interfere with BDNF role in pain perception. In Val66Met carriers, the Met allele may have a dual role, with anti-nociceptive actions in normal condition and pro-nociceptive effects during chronic pain. In order to elucidate the main effects of BDNF in nociception, we reviewed the main characteristics of this neurotrophin, focusing on its involvement in pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Cappoli
- Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Dipartimento di Sicurezza e Bioetica, Sezione di Farmacologia, Rome, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Tabolacci
- Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Dipartimento di Scienze della Vita e Sanità Pubblica, Sezione di Medicina Genomica, Rome, Italy; Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Paola Aceto
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Dipartimento di Scienze dell'Emergenza, Anestesiologiche e della Rianimazione, Rome, Italy; Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Dipartimento di Scienze biotecnologiche di base, cliniche intensivologiche e perioperatorie, Rome, Italy.
| | - Cinzia Dello Russo
- Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Dipartimento di Sicurezza e Bioetica, Sezione di Farmacologia, Rome, Italy; Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
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20
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Arutjunyan AV, Milyutina YP, Shcherbitskaia AD, Kerkeshko GO, Zalozniaia IV, Mikhel AV. Neurotrophins of the Fetal Brain and Placenta in Prenatal Hyperhomocysteinemia. BIOCHEMISTRY (MOSCOW) 2020; 85:213-223. [PMID: 32093597 DOI: 10.1134/s000629792002008x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Prenatal hyperhomocysteinemia (PHHC) in pregnant rats was induced by chronic L-methionine loading, resulting in a significant increase in the L-homocysteine content both in the mothers' blood and blood and brain of fetuses. Significant decrease in the weight of the placenta, fetus, and fetal brain was detected by the morphometric studies on day 20 of pregnancy. PHHC also activated maternal immune system due to the increase in the content of proinflammatory interleukin-1β in the rat blood and fetal part of the placenta. PHHC elevated the levels of the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF, 29 kDa) and nerve growth factor (NGF, 31 kDa) precursors in the placenta and the content of the BDNF isoform (29 kDa) in the fetal brain. The content of neuregulin 1 (NRG1) decreased in the placenta and increased in the fetal brain on day 20 of embryonic development. An increase in the caspase-3 activity was detected in the brains of fetuses subjected to PHHC. It was suggested that changes in the processing of neurotrophins induced by PPHC, oxidative stress, and inflammatory processes initiated by it, as well as apoptosis, play an important role in the development of brain disorders in the offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- A V Arutjunyan
- Ott Institute of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductology, St. Petersburg, 199034, Russia.
| | - Yu P Milyutina
- Ott Institute of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductology, St. Petersburg, 199034, Russia
| | - A D Shcherbitskaia
- Sechenov Institute of Evolutionary Physiology and Biochemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, St. Petersburg, 194223, Russia
| | - G O Kerkeshko
- Ott Institute of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductology, St. Petersburg, 199034, Russia
| | - I V Zalozniaia
- Ott Institute of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductology, St. Petersburg, 199034, Russia
| | - A V Mikhel
- Ott Institute of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductology, St. Petersburg, 199034, Russia
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21
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Cioana M, Michalski B, Fahnestock M. Insulin‐Like Growth Factor and Insulin‐Like Growth Factor Receptor Expression in Human Idiopathic Autism Fusiform Gyrus Tissue. Autism Res 2020; 13:897-907. [DOI: 10.1002/aur.2291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2019] [Revised: 02/04/2020] [Accepted: 02/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Milena Cioana
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences McMaster University Hamilton Ontario L8S 4K1 Canada
| | - Bernadeta Michalski
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences McMaster University Hamilton Ontario L8S 4K1 Canada
| | - Margaret Fahnestock
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences McMaster University Hamilton Ontario L8S 4K1 Canada
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22
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Tomás FJB, Turko P, Heilmann H, Trimbuch T, Yanagawa Y, Vida I, Münster-Wandowski A. BDNF Expression in Cortical GABAergic Interneurons. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E1567. [PMID: 32106593 PMCID: PMC7084226 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21051567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2020] [Revised: 02/07/2020] [Accepted: 02/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is a major neuronal growth factor that is widely expressed in the central nervous system. It is synthesized as a glycosylated precursor protein, (pro)BDNF and post-translationally converted to the mature form, (m)BDNF. BDNF is known to be produced and secreted by cortical glutamatergic principal cells (PCs); however, it remains a question whether it can also be synthesized by other neuron types, in particular, GABAergic interneurons (INs). Therefore, we utilized immunocytochemical labeling and reverse transcription quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) to investigate the cellular distribution of proBDNF and its RNA in glutamatergic and GABAergic neurons of the mouse cortex. Immunofluorescence labeling revealed that mBDNF, as well as proBDNF, localized to both the neuronal populations in the hippocampus. The precursor proBDNF protein showed a perinuclear distribution pattern, overlapping with the rough endoplasmic reticulum (ER), the site of protein synthesis. RT-qPCR of samples obtained using laser capture microdissection (LCM) or fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) of hippocampal and cortical neurons further demonstrated the abundance of BDNF transcripts in both glutamatergic and GABAergic cells. Thus, our data provide compelling evidence that BDNF can be synthesized by both principal cells and INs of the cortex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federico José Barreda Tomás
- Institute of Integrative Neuroanatomy, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Mitte, 10117 Berlin, Germany; (F.J.B.T.); (P.T.); (H.H.); (I.V.)
- Bernstein Center for Computational Neuroscience (BCCN) Berlin, 10115 Berlin, Germany
| | - Paul Turko
- Institute of Integrative Neuroanatomy, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Mitte, 10117 Berlin, Germany; (F.J.B.T.); (P.T.); (H.H.); (I.V.)
| | - Heike Heilmann
- Institute of Integrative Neuroanatomy, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Mitte, 10117 Berlin, Germany; (F.J.B.T.); (P.T.); (H.H.); (I.V.)
| | - Thorsten Trimbuch
- Institute of Neurophysiology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Mitte, 10117 Berlin, Germany;
| | - Yuchio Yanagawa
- Departments of Genetic and Behavioral Neuroscience, Graduate School of Medicine, Gunma University, Graduate School of Medicine, Maebashi City 371-8511, Japan;
| | - Imre Vida
- Institute of Integrative Neuroanatomy, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Mitte, 10117 Berlin, Germany; (F.J.B.T.); (P.T.); (H.H.); (I.V.)
- Bernstein Center for Computational Neuroscience (BCCN) Berlin, 10115 Berlin, Germany
| | - Agnieszka Münster-Wandowski
- Institute of Integrative Neuroanatomy, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Mitte, 10117 Berlin, Germany; (F.J.B.T.); (P.T.); (H.H.); (I.V.)
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23
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Sex-specific spatial memory deficits in mice with a conditional TrkB deletion on parvalbumin interneurons. Behav Brain Res 2019; 372:111984. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2019.111984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2019] [Revised: 05/23/2019] [Accepted: 05/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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24
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Buck JM, O'Neill HC, Stitzel JA. Developmental nicotine exposure elicits multigenerational disequilibria in proBDNF proteolysis and glucocorticoid signaling in the frontal cortices, striata, and hippocampi of adolescent mice. Biochem Pharmacol 2019; 168:438-451. [PMID: 31404529 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2019.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2019] [Accepted: 08/07/2019] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Maternal smoking of conventional or vapor cigarettes during pregnancy, a form of developmental nicotine exposure (DNE), enhances the risk of neurodevelopmental disorders such as ADHD, autism, and schizophrenia in children. Modeling the multigenerational effects of smoking during pregnancy and nursing in the first- (F1) and second- (F2) generation adolescent offspring of oral nicotine-treated female C57BL/6J mice, we have previously reported that DNE precipitates intergenerational transmission of nicotine preference, hyperactivity and impulsivity-like behaviors, altered rhythmicity of home cage activity, corticostriatal nicotinic acetylcholine receptor and dopamine transporter dysfunction, and corticostriatal global DNA methylome deficits. In aggregate, these DNE-evoked behavioral, neuropharmacological, and epigenomic anomalies mirror fundamental etiological aspects of neurodevelopmental disorders including ADHD, autism, and schizophrenia. Expanding this line of research, the current study profiled the multigenerational neurotrophic and neuroendocrine consequences of DNE. Results reveal impaired proBDNF proteolysis as indicated by proBDNF-BDNF imbalance, downregulation of the proBDNF processing enzyme furin, atypical glucocorticoid receptor (GR) activity as implied by decreased relative nuclear GR localization, and deficient basal plasma corticosterone (CORT) levels in adolescent DNE offspring and grandoffspring. Collectively, these data recapitulate the BDNF deficits and HPA axis dysregulation characteristic of neurodevelopmental disorders such as ADHD, autism, and schizophrenia as well as the children of maternal smokers. Notably, as BDNF is a quintessential mediator of neurodevelopment, our prior findings of multigenerational DNE-induced behavioral and neuropharmacological abnormalities may stem from neurodevelopmental insults conferred by the proBDNF-BDNF imbalance detected in DNE mice. Similarly, our findings of multigenerational GR hypoactivity may contribute to the increased risk-taking behaviors and aberrant circadian rhythmicity of home cage activity that we previously documented in first- and second-generation DNE mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordan M Buck
- Institute for Behavioral Genetics, University of Colorado, Boulder, United States; Department of Integrative Physiology, University of Colorado, Boulder, United States.
| | - Heidi C O'Neill
- Institute for Behavioral Genetics, University of Colorado, Boulder, United States
| | - Jerry A Stitzel
- Institute for Behavioral Genetics, University of Colorado, Boulder, United States; Department of Integrative Physiology, University of Colorado, Boulder, United States
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25
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Kirsten TB, Casarin RC, Bernardi MM, Felicio LF. Pioglitazone abolishes cognition impairments as well as BDNF and neurotensin disturbances in a rat model of autism. Biol Open 2019; 8:bio.041327. [PMID: 31036753 PMCID: PMC6550086 DOI: 10.1242/bio.041327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
We have shown that exposure of rats to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) during gestation induces autistic-like behaviors in juvenile offspring and pioglitazone post treatment corrects social and communication deficits. The first objective of the present study was to evaluate the cognition of the rats, because this is also a behavioral sphere committed in autism. Second, biomarkers related to pioglitazone pathways and autism were studied to try to understand their mechanisms. We used our rat model of autism and pioglitazone was administered daily to these young offspring. T-maze spontaneous alternations tests, plasma levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), beta-endorphin, neurotensin, oxytocin, and substance P were all studied. Exposure of rats to LPS during gestation induced cognitive deficits in the young offspring, elevated BDNF levels and decreased neurotensin levels. Daily postnatal pioglitazone treatment abolished cognition impairments as well as BDNF and neurotensin disturbances. Together with our previous studies, we suggest pioglitazone as a candidate for the treatment of autism, because it improved the responses of the three most typical autistic-like behaviors. BDNF and neurotensin also appeared to be related to the autistic-like behaviors and should be considered for therapeutic purposes. Summary: Exposure of rats to lipopolysaccharide during gestation induced autistic-like behaviors in the juvenile offspring. Daily postnatal pioglitazone treatment abolished cognition impairments as well as brain-derived neurotrophic factor and neurotensin disturbances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thiago B Kirsten
- Department of Pathology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-270, Brazil .,Environmental and Experimental Pathology, Paulista University, São Paulo 04026-002, Brazil
| | - Renato C Casarin
- Graduate Program of Dentistry, Paulista University, São Paulo 04026-002, Brazil
| | - Maria M Bernardi
- Environmental and Experimental Pathology, Paulista University, São Paulo 04026-002, Brazil.,Graduate Program of Dentistry, Paulista University, São Paulo 04026-002, Brazil
| | - Luciano F Felicio
- Department of Pathology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-270, Brazil
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Iqbal MUN, Yaqoob T, Ali SA, Khan TA. A Functional Polymorphism (rs6265, G>A) of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor Gene and Breast Cancer: An Association Study. BREAST CANCER-BASIC AND CLINICAL RESEARCH 2019; 13:1178223419844977. [PMID: 31105428 PMCID: PMC6501468 DOI: 10.1177/1178223419844977] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2019] [Accepted: 03/25/2019] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Purpose: The objective of this study was to evaluate the relationship between brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) gene (Val66Met, rs6265, G>A) polymorphism and breast cancer (BC) among females of Southern Pakistan. Methods: This case-control study consisted of 300 females (BC cases [n = 100] and controls [n = 200]) with age range of 18 to 45 years. All participants were recruited during January to December 2014 and were screened for depression using Zung depression scale. Isolation of genomic DNA (gDNA) followed by polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) analysis was done. All statistical analysis was carried out on IBM-SPSS version 22 at P-value <.05. Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium (HWE), Pearson chi-square, and odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence interval (95% CI) were calculated. Results: Genotype distribution of BDNF gene polymorphism lies in the goodness-of-fit model among controls. The statistical analyses reveal a significant association between genotype frequencies (χ2 = 12.709, P-value = .002) of BDNF and BC among cases and controls. The AA genotype (OR = 5.2, 95%CI = 0.632-42.804) increases the risk of having BC. Conclusions: Our results suggest that BDNF gene polymorphism may have an association with BC risk among Pakistani females. However, the present finding needs to be replicated with greater sample size with BC risk.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Tahniyat Yaqoob
- Department of Physiology, University of Karachi, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Syed Adnan Ali
- Government Degree Science and Commerce College, Karachi, Pakistan
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Hericium erinaceus Improves Mood and Sleep Disorders in Patients Affected by Overweight or Obesity: Could Circulating Pro-BDNF and BDNF Be Potential Biomarkers? EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2019; 2019:7861297. [PMID: 31118969 PMCID: PMC6500611 DOI: 10.1155/2019/7861297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2019] [Revised: 04/02/2019] [Accepted: 04/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Epidemiological data indicate that subjects affected by obesity have an increased risk of developing mood disorders. The relationship between obesity and mood disorders is bidirectional. We assessed whether a Hericium erinaceus treatment improved depression, anxiety, sleep, and binge eating disorders after 8 weeks of supplementation in subjects affected by overweight or obesity under a low calorie diet regimen. Looking for a possible clinical biomarker, we assessed the serum balance between brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and its precursor pro-BDNF before and after H. erinaceus supplementation. Seventy-seven volunteers affected by overweight or obesity were recruited at the offices of the Department of Preventive Medicine, Luigi Devoto Clinic of Work, Obesity Centre, at the IRCCS Foundation Policlinico Hospital of Milan (Italy). Patients were recruited only if they had a mood and/or sleep disorder and/or were binge eating as evaluated through self-assessment questionnaires. We used two different enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays kits to discriminate circulating levels of pro-BDNF and BDNF. Eight weeks of oral H. erinaceus supplementation decreased depression, anxiety, and sleep disorders. H. erinaceus supplementation improved mood disorders of a depressive-anxious nature and the quality of the nocturnal rest. H. erinaceus increased circulating pro-BDNF levels without any significant change in BDNF circulating levels.
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28
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De Vincenti AP, Ríos AS, Paratcha G, Ledda F. Mechanisms That Modulate and Diversify BDNF Functions: Implications for Hippocampal Synaptic Plasticity. Front Cell Neurosci 2019; 13:135. [PMID: 31024262 PMCID: PMC6465932 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2019.00135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2019] [Accepted: 03/19/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is a neurotrophin that has pleiotropic effects on neuronal morphology and synaptic plasticity that underlie hippocampal circuit development and cognition. Recent advances established that BDNF function is controlled and diversified by molecular and cellular mechanisms including trafficking and subcellular compartmentalization of different Bdnf mRNA species, pre- vs. postsynaptic release of BDNF, control of BDNF signaling by tropomyosin receptor kinase B (TrkB) receptor interactors and conversion of pro-BDNF to mature BDNF and BDNF-propeptide. Defects in these regulatory mechanisms affect dendritic spine formation and morphology of pyramidal neurons as well as synaptic integration of newborn granule cells (GCs) into preexisting circuits of mature hippocampus, compromising the cognitive function. Here, we review recent findings describing novel dynamic mechanisms that diversify and locally control the function of BDNF in hippocampal neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Paula De Vincenti
- División de Neurociencia Molecular y Celular, Instituto de Biología Celular y Neurociencias, Universidad de Buenos Aires, CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Antonella S Ríos
- División de Neurociencia Molecular y Celular, Instituto de Biología Celular y Neurociencias, Universidad de Buenos Aires, CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Fundación Instituto Leloir, Instituto de Investigaciones Bioquímicas de Buenos Aires, CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Gustavo Paratcha
- División de Neurociencia Molecular y Celular, Instituto de Biología Celular y Neurociencias, Universidad de Buenos Aires, CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Fernanda Ledda
- División de Neurociencia Molecular y Celular, Instituto de Biología Celular y Neurociencias, Universidad de Buenos Aires, CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Fundación Instituto Leloir, Instituto de Investigaciones Bioquímicas de Buenos Aires, CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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29
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Sharma D, Barhwal KK, Biswal SN, Srivastava AK, Bhardwaj P, Kumar A, Chaurasia OP, Hota SK. Hypoxia-mediated alteration in cholesterol oxidation and raft dynamics regulates BDNF signalling and neurodegeneration in hippocampus. J Neurochem 2018; 148:238-251. [DOI: 10.1111/jnc.14609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2018] [Revised: 09/08/2018] [Accepted: 10/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Deepti Sharma
- Defence Institute of High Altitude Research; Defence Research and Development Organisation; Leh-Ladakh India
| | | | - Surya Narayan Biswal
- Defence Institute of High Altitude Research; Defence Research and Development Organisation; Leh-Ladakh India
| | | | - Pushpendar Bhardwaj
- Defence Institute of High Altitude Research; Defence Research and Development Organisation; Leh-Ladakh India
| | - Ashish Kumar
- Defence Institute of High Altitude Research; Defence Research and Development Organisation; Leh-Ladakh India
| | - Om Prakash Chaurasia
- Defence Institute of High Altitude Research; Defence Research and Development Organisation; Leh-Ladakh India
| | - Sunil Kumar Hota
- Defence Institute of High Altitude Research; Defence Research and Development Organisation; Leh-Ladakh India
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30
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Ko HM, Jin Y, Park HH, Lee JH, Jung SH, Choi SY, Lee SH, Shin CY. Dual mechanisms for the regulation of brain-derived neurotrophic factor by valproic acid in neural progenitor cells. THE KOREAN JOURNAL OF PHYSIOLOGY & PHARMACOLOGY : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE KOREAN PHYSIOLOGICAL SOCIETY AND THE KOREAN SOCIETY OF PHARMACOLOGY 2018; 22:679-688. [PMID: 30402028 PMCID: PMC6205935 DOI: 10.4196/kjpp.2018.22.6.679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2018] [Revised: 08/15/2018] [Accepted: 09/13/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are neurodevelopmental disorders that share behavioral features, the results of numerous studies have suggested that the underlying causes of ASDs are multifactorial. Behavioral and/or neurobiological analyses of ASDs have been performed extensively using a valid model of prenatal exposure to valproic acid (VPA). Abnormal synapse formation resulting from altered neurite outgrowth in neural progenitor cells (NPCs) during embryonic brain development has been observed in both the VPA model and ASD subjects. Although several mechanisms have been suggested, the actual mechanism underlying enhanced neurite outgrowth remains unclear. In this study, we found that VPA enhanced the expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), particularly mature BDNF (mBDNF), through dual mechanisms. VPA increased the mRNA and protein expression of BDNF by suppressing the nuclear expression of methyl-CpG-binding protein 2 (MeCP2), which is a transcriptional repressor of BDNF. In addition, VPA promoted the expression and activity of the tissue plasminogen activator (tPA), which induces BDNF maturation through proteolytic cleavage. Trichostatin A and sodium butyrate also enhanced tPA activity, but tPA activity was not induced by valpromide, which is a VPA analog that does not induce histone acetylation, indicating that histone acetylation activity was required for tPA regulation. VPA-mediated regulation of BDNF, MeCP2, and tPA was not observed in astrocytes or neurons. Therefore, these results suggested that VPA-induced mBDNF upregulation was associated with the dysregulation of MeCP2 and tPA in developing cortical NPCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyun Myung Ko
- Department of Life Science, College of Science and Technology, Woosuk University, Jincheon 27841, Korea
| | - Yeonsun Jin
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Chung-Ang University, Seoul 06974, Korea
| | - Hyun Ho Park
- College of Pharmacy, Chung-Ang University, Seoul 06974, Korea
| | - Jong Hyuk Lee
- Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering, College of Life and Health Science, Hoseo University, Asan 31499, Korea
| | - Seung Hyo Jung
- Department of Medicine, Research Institute of Medical Science, Konkuk University School of Medicine, Chungju 27478, Korea
| | - So Young Choi
- Department of Biomedical Science & Technology, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Korea
| | - Sung Hoon Lee
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Chung-Ang University, Seoul 06974, Korea
| | - Chan Young Shin
- Department of Pharmacology and Advanced Translational Medicine, School of Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, Korea
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31
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Aksu S, Unlu G, Kardesler AC, Cakaloz B, Aybek H. Altered levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor, proBDNF and tissue plasminogen activator in children with posttraumatic stress disorder. Psychiatry Res 2018; 268:478-483. [PMID: 30142554 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2018.07.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2018] [Revised: 06/05/2018] [Accepted: 07/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The current study aims to compare the serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), proBDNF and tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) levels in cases that have developed posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in consequence of sexual abuse with those in healthy control subjects. Thirty-one female patients between 8 and 18 years of age who have been diagnosed with PTSD due to sexual abuse and thirty-one healthy female volunteer controls were included in the study. Frequency, intensity and severity of PTSD symptoms were assessed on the basis of Clinician-Administered Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Scale for Children and Adolescents (CAPS-CA). Serum BDNF, proBDNF and tPA levels were measured by Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) method. Results of the present study revealed that serum levels of BDNF and proBDNF in PTSD group were significantly lower but tPA level was significantly higher as compared to healthy control subjects. There were no correlations between CAPS-CA scores and BDNF, proBDNF and tPA levels. Decreased levels of BDNF, as suggested to have a role in the etiopathogenesis of PTSD, appear to be a result of the reduction in proBDNF production. The increased tPA levels in such cases, on the other hand, can be a compensatory mechanism serving to increase the BDNF levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sehra Aksu
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Pamukkale University, Denizli, Turkey
| | - Gulsen Unlu
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Pamukkale University, Denizli, Turkey.
| | - Aysen Cetin Kardesler
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Pamukkale University, Denizli, Turkey
| | - Burcu Cakaloz
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Pamukkale University, Denizli, Turkey
| | - Hulya Aybek
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Pamukkale University, Denizli, Turkey
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32
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Porcher C, Medina I, Gaiarsa JL. Mechanism of BDNF Modulation in GABAergic Synaptic Transmission in Healthy and Disease Brains. Front Cell Neurosci 2018; 12:273. [PMID: 30210299 PMCID: PMC6121065 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2018.00273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2018] [Accepted: 08/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
In the mature healthy mammalian neuronal networks, γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) mediates synaptic inhibition by acting on GABAA and GABAB receptors (GABAAR, GABABR). In immature networks and during numerous pathological conditions the strength of GABAergic synaptic inhibition is much less pronounced. In these neurons the activation of GABAAR produces paradoxical depolarizing action that favors neuronal network excitation. The depolarizing action of GABAAR is a consequence of deregulated chloride ion homeostasis. In addition to depolarizing action of GABAAR, the GABABR mediated inhibition is also less efficient. One of the key molecules regulating the GABAergic synaptic transmission is the brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). BDNF and its precursor proBDNF, can be released in an activity-dependent manner. Mature BDNF operates via its cognate receptors tropomyosin related kinase B (TrkB) whereas proBDNF binds the p75 neurotrophin receptor (p75NTR). In this review article, we discuss recent finding illuminating how mBDNF-TrkB and proBDNF-p75NTR signaling pathways regulate GABA related neurotransmission under physiological conditions and during epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christophe Porcher
- Aix Marseille University, Marseille, France.,Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM) U901, Marseille, France.,Institut de Neurobiologie de la Méditerranée (INMED), Marseille, France
| | - Igor Medina
- Aix Marseille University, Marseille, France.,Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM) U901, Marseille, France.,Institut de Neurobiologie de la Méditerranée (INMED), Marseille, France
| | - Jean-Luc Gaiarsa
- Aix Marseille University, Marseille, France.,Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM) U901, Marseille, France.,Institut de Neurobiologie de la Méditerranée (INMED), Marseille, France
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33
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Frazzini V, Granzotto A, Bomba M, Massetti N, Castelli V, d'Aurora M, Punzi M, Iorio M, Mosca A, Delli Pizzi S, Gatta V, Cimini A, Sensi SL. The pharmacological perturbation of brain zinc impairs BDNF-related signaling and the cognitive performances of young mice. Sci Rep 2018; 8:9768. [PMID: 29950603 PMCID: PMC6021411 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-28083-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2018] [Accepted: 06/15/2018] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Zinc (Zn2+) is a pleiotropic modulator of the neuronal and brain activity. The disruption of intraneuronal Zn2+ levels triggers neurotoxic processes and affects neuronal functioning. In this study, we investigated how the pharmacological modulation of brain Zn2+ affects synaptic plasticity and cognition in wild-type mice. To manipulate brain Zn2+ levels, we employed the Zn2+ (and copper) chelator 5-chloro-7-iodo-8-hydroxyquinoline (clioquinol, CQ). CQ was administered for two weeks to 2.5-month-old (m.o.) mice, and effects studied on BDNF-related signaling, metalloproteinase activity as well as learning and memory performances. CQ treatment was found to negatively affect short- and long-term memory performances. The CQ-driven perturbation of brain Zn2+ was found to reduce levels of BDNF, synaptic plasticity-related proteins and dendritic spine density in vivo. Our study highlights the importance of choosing "when", "where", and "how much" in the modulation of brain Zn2+ levels. Our findings confirm the importance of targeting Zn2+ as a therapeutic approach against neurodegenerative conditions but, at the same time, underscore the potential drawbacks of reducing brain Zn2+ availability upon the early stages of development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valerio Frazzini
- Center of Excellence on Aging and Translational Medicine - CeSI-MeT, Chieti, Italy
- Institut du Cerveau et de la Moelle épinière, ICM, INSERM UMRS 1127, CNRS UMR 7225, Pitié-Salpêtrière Hospital, Paris, France
- AP-HP, GH Pitie-Salpêtrière-Charles Foix, Epilepsy Unit and Neurophysiology Department, Paris, France
| | - Alberto Granzotto
- Center of Excellence on Aging and Translational Medicine - CeSI-MeT, Chieti, Italy
- Department of Neuroscience, Imaging, and Clinical Sciences, University G. d'Annunzio of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti-Pescara, Italy
| | - Manuela Bomba
- Center of Excellence on Aging and Translational Medicine - CeSI-MeT, Chieti, Italy
- Department of Neuroscience, Imaging, and Clinical Sciences, University G. d'Annunzio of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti-Pescara, Italy
| | - Noemi Massetti
- Center of Excellence on Aging and Translational Medicine - CeSI-MeT, Chieti, Italy
| | - Vanessa Castelli
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Marco d'Aurora
- Center of Excellence on Aging and Translational Medicine - CeSI-MeT, Chieti, Italy
- Department of Psychological Sciences, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, University G. d'Annunzio of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti-Pescara, Italy
| | - Miriam Punzi
- Center of Excellence on Aging and Translational Medicine - CeSI-MeT, Chieti, Italy
- Department of Neuroscience, Imaging, and Clinical Sciences, University G. d'Annunzio of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti-Pescara, Italy
| | - Mariangela Iorio
- Center of Excellence on Aging and Translational Medicine - CeSI-MeT, Chieti, Italy
| | - Alessandra Mosca
- Center of Excellence on Aging and Translational Medicine - CeSI-MeT, Chieti, Italy
| | - Stefano Delli Pizzi
- Center of Excellence on Aging and Translational Medicine - CeSI-MeT, Chieti, Italy
- Department of Neuroscience, Imaging, and Clinical Sciences, University G. d'Annunzio of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti-Pescara, Italy
| | - Valentina Gatta
- Center of Excellence on Aging and Translational Medicine - CeSI-MeT, Chieti, Italy
- Department of Psychological Sciences, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, University G. d'Annunzio of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti-Pescara, Italy
| | - Annamaria Cimini
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
- Sbarro Institute for Cancer Research and Molecular Medicine and Center for Biotechnology, Temple University, Philadelphia, USA
- National Institute for Nuclear Physics (INFN), Gran Sasso National Laboratory (LNGS), Assergi, Italy
| | - Stefano L Sensi
- Center of Excellence on Aging and Translational Medicine - CeSI-MeT, Chieti, Italy.
- Department of Neuroscience, Imaging, and Clinical Sciences, University G. d'Annunzio of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti-Pescara, Italy.
- Departments of Neurology and Pharmacology, Institute for Mind Impairments and Neurological Disorders, University of California - Irvine, Irvine, USA.
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Francis K, Dougali A, Sideri K, Kroupis C, Vasdekis V, Dima K, Douzenis A. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in children with ASD and their parents: a 3-year follow-up. Acta Psychiatr Scand 2018. [PMID: 29532458 DOI: 10.1111/acps.12872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Several lines of evidence point to a probable relationship between brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD), but studies have yielded inconsistent findings on the BDNF serum level in ASD. The study aimed to assess those levels in children with ASD and their families. METHOD BDNF serum levels were measured in 45 ASD children without intellectual disability (ID) and allergies, age 30-42 months and age-matched normal controls. BDNF serum levels in the parents of the ASD subjects were compared to normal controls. BDNF serum levels in the ASD subjects were followed up for 3 years and correlated with adaptive functioning changes. RESULTS BDNF serum levels were measured to be lower in children with ASD and independent of all the major baseline characteristics of the subjects. Having a child with ASD raises the BDNF levels in parents comparing to controls. Prospectively, no correlation between the change of BDNF variables in time and the change of the Vineland scores was found. CONCLUSIONS Our results contradict those from recent published meta-analyses with the age, the presence of ID and allergies being possible contributing factors. The parents' data indeed point to a role of BDNF in the pathophysiology of ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Francis
- 2nd Department of Psychiatry, Athens University Medical School, 'Attikon' General Hospital, Athens, Greece.,Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Unit, Kuwait Centre for Mental Health, Kuwait, Kuwait
| | - A Dougali
- 2nd Department of Psychiatry, Athens University Medical School, 'Attikon' General Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - K Sideri
- Allergy Research Center, Attikon General Hospital, University of Athens Medical School, Athens, Greece
| | - C Kroupis
- Laboratory of Clinical Biochemistry, Attikon University Hospital, Medical School, University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - V Vasdekis
- Department of Statistics, Athens University of Economic and Business, Athens, Greece
| | - K Dima
- Laboratory of Clinical Biochemistry, Attikon University Hospital, Medical School, University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - A Douzenis
- 2nd Department of Psychiatry, Athens University Medical School, 'Attikon' General Hospital, Athens, Greece
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35
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Bauer AZ, Kriebel D, Herbert MR, Bornehag CG, Swan SH. Prenatal paracetamol exposure and child neurodevelopment: A review. Horm Behav 2018; 101:125-147. [PMID: 29341895 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2018.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2017] [Revised: 12/09/2017] [Accepted: 01/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The non-prescription medication paracetamol (acetaminophen, APAP) is currently recommended as a safe pain and fever treatment during pregnancy. However, recent studies suggest a possible association between APAP use in pregnancy and offspring neurodevelopment. OBJECTIVES To conduct a review of publications reporting associations between prenatal APAP use and offspring neurodevelopmental outcomes. METHODS Relevant sources were identified through a key word search of multiple databases (Medline, CINAHL, OVID and TOXNET) in September 2016. All English language observational studies of pregnancy APAP and three classes of neurodevelopmental outcomes (autism spectrum disorder (ASD), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and intelligence quotient (IQ)) were included. One reviewer (AZB) independently screened all titles and abstracts, extracted and analyzed the data. RESULTS 64 studies were retrieved and 55 were ineligible. Nine prospective cohort studies fulfilled all inclusion criteria. Data pooling was not appropriate due to heterogeneity in outcomes. All included studies suggested an association between prenatal APAP exposure and the neurodevelopmental outcomes; ADHD, ASD, or lower IQ. Longer duration of APAP use was associated with increased risk. Associations were strongest for hyperactivity and attention-related outcomes. Little modification of associations by indication for use was reported. CONCLUSIONS Together, these nine studies suggest an increased risk of adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes following prenatal APAP exposure. Further studies are urgently needed with; precise indication of use and exposure assessment of use both in utero and in early life. Given the current findings, pregnant women should be cautioned against indiscriminate use of APAP. These results have substantial public health implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann Z Bauer
- Department of Public Health, University of Massachusetts, 1 University Avenue, Lowell, MA, 01854, USA.
| | - David Kriebel
- Department of Public Health, University of Massachusetts, 1 University Avenue, Lowell, MA, 01854, USA.
| | - Martha R Herbert
- Department of Neurology, MGH, Harvard Medical School, A.A. Martinos Centre for Biomedical Imaging, MGH/MIT/Harvard 149 Thirteenth Street, Charlestown, MA 02129, USA
| | - Carl-Gustaf Bornehag
- Department of Environmental Medicine and Public Health, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York City, NY 10029, USA; Department of Health Sciences, Karlstad University, Karlstad, Sweden.
| | - Shanna H Swan
- Department of Environmental Medicine and Public Health, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York City, NY 10029, USA.
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Ohja K, Gozal E, Fahnestock M, Cai L, Cai J, Freedman JH, Switala A, El-Baz A, Barnes GN. Neuroimmunologic and Neurotrophic Interactions in Autism Spectrum Disorders: Relationship to Neuroinflammation. Neuromolecular Med 2018; 20:161-173. [PMID: 29691724 PMCID: PMC5942347 DOI: 10.1007/s12017-018-8488-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2017] [Accepted: 03/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are the most prevalent set of pediatric neurobiological disorders. The etiology of ASD has both genetic and environmental components including possible dysfunction of the immune system. The relationship of the immune system to aberrant neural circuitry output in the form of altered behaviors and communication characterized by ASD is unknown. Dysregulation of neurotrophins such as BDNF and their signaling pathways have been implicated in ASD. While abnormal cortical formation and autistic behaviors in mouse models of immune activation have been described, no one theory has been described to link activation of the immune system to specific brain signaling pathways aberrant in ASD. In this paper we explore the relationship between neurotrophin signaling, the immune system and ASD. To this effect we hypothesize that an interplay of dysregulated immune system, synaptogenic growth factors and their signaling pathways contribute to the development of ASD phenotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kshama Ohja
- Department of Neurology, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Evelyne Gozal
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Margaret Fahnestock
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Lu Cai
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY, USA.,Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Jun Cai
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Jonathan H Freedman
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Andy Switala
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Ayman El-Baz
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Gregory Neal Barnes
- Department of Neurology, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY, USA. .,Department of Pediatrics, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY, USA. .,Spafford Ackerly Chair in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, University of Louisville Autism Center, 1405 East Burnett Avenue, Louisville, KY, 40217, USA.
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Brondino N, Fusar-Poli L, Rocchetti M, Bertoglio F, Bloise N, Visai L, Politi P. BDNF levels are associated with autistic traits in the general population. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2018; 89:131-133. [PMID: 29414026 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2018.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2017] [Revised: 01/06/2018] [Accepted: 01/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Evidence supports the notion that autistic symptoms and behaviors should be regarded as dimensional traits. The present study aimed to investigate the role of vasopressin (AVP), brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and oxytocin (OXT) as potential biochemical correlates of subclinical autistic traits in a cohort of healthy young adults. One hundred and fifty-three subjects (80 males, 73 females) were recruited. Participants completed the Autism Spectrum Quotient (AQ), a widely used measure for the identification of autistic traits in the general population. Additionally, blood samples were obtained from all participants at the same time of the day to control for circadian variation. We conducted a multiple regression analysis using the AQ score as the dependent variable and age, sex, AVP, BDNF and OXT levels as the independent variables. The model explained approximately the 22% of the variance of the AQ score. Among the parameters included in the analysis, only BDNF levels were independent predictors of AQ score.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natascia Brondino
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, via Bassi 21, 27100, Pavia, Italy.
| | - Laura Fusar-Poli
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, via Bassi 21, 27100, Pavia, Italy
| | - Matteo Rocchetti
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, via Bassi 21, 27100, Pavia, Italy
| | - Federico Bertoglio
- Molecular Medicine Department, Centre for Health Technologies (CHT), UdR INSTM, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy; Scuola Universitaria Superiore IUSS, Pavia, Italy; Department of Occupational Medicine, Toxicology and Environmental Risks, Istituti Clinici Scientifici (ICS) Maugeri, Società Benefit SpA, IRCCS, Pavia, Italy
| | - Nora Bloise
- Molecular Medicine Department, Centre for Health Technologies (CHT), UdR INSTM, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy; Department of Occupational Medicine, Toxicology and Environmental Risks, Istituti Clinici Scientifici (ICS) Maugeri, Società Benefit SpA, IRCCS, Pavia, Italy
| | - Livia Visai
- Molecular Medicine Department, Centre for Health Technologies (CHT), UdR INSTM, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy; Department of Occupational Medicine, Toxicology and Environmental Risks, Istituti Clinici Scientifici (ICS) Maugeri, Società Benefit SpA, IRCCS, Pavia, Italy
| | - Pierluigi Politi
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, via Bassi 21, 27100, Pavia, Italy
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Nicolini C, Fahnestock M. The valproic acid-induced rodent model of autism. Exp Neurol 2018; 299:217-227. [DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2017.04.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 235] [Impact Index Per Article: 39.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2016] [Revised: 04/26/2017] [Accepted: 04/28/2017] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
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Ng T, Lee YY, Chae JW, Yeo AHL, Shwe M, Gan YX, Ng RCH, Chu PPY, Khor CC, Ho HK, Chan A. Evaluation of plasma brain-derived neurotrophic factor levels and self-perceived cognitive impairment post-chemotherapy: a longitudinal study. BMC Cancer 2017; 17:867. [PMID: 29258453 PMCID: PMC5735945 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-017-3861-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2016] [Accepted: 11/29/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Preliminary evidence suggests that changes in plasma brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels may contribute to the occurrence of chemotherapy-associated cognitive impairment (CACI), and a previous study suggested that carriers of the BDNF Met homozygous genotype are protected from CACI. Methods This multicenter, prospective cohort study involved chemotherapy-receiving early-stage breast cancer (ESBC) patients. Self-perceived cognitive function was longitudinally assessed using the validated FACT-Cog (ver. 3) across three time points: Prior to chemotherapy (T1), during chemotherapy (T2), and at the end of chemotherapy (T3). Plasma BDNF levels were quantified using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Genotyping was performed using Sanger Sequencing. Results A total of 51 chemotherapy-receiving ESBC patients (mean age: 52.6 ± 9.5 years) were recruited, and 11 patients (21.6%) reported subjective cognitive impairment post-chemotherapy. Overall, there was a reduction in median plasma BDNF levels over time (T1: 5423.0 pg/ml; T2: 5313.6 pg/ml; T3: 4050.3 pg/ml; p < 0.01). After adjusting for confounding factors, longitudinal analysis revealed that BDNF levels were associated with self-reported concentration deficit (p = 0.032). Carriers of Val/Val (p = 0.011) and Val/Met (p = 0.003) BDNF genotypes demonstrated a significant reduction in plasma BDNF levels over time; however, plasma BDNF levels were similar across all time points among Met homozygous carriers (p = 0.107). Conclusion There was a statistically significant change in BDNF levels post-chemotherapy in ESBC patients, and plasma BDNF levels were associated with self-perceived concentration deficit in patients receiving chemotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Terence Ng
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Science, National University of Singapore, Block S4A, 18 Science Drive 4, Level 3, Singapore, 117543, Singapore.,Department of Pharmacy, National Cancer Centre Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Ying Yun Lee
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Science, National University of Singapore, Block S4A, 18 Science Drive 4, Level 3, Singapore, 117543, Singapore
| | - Jung-Woo Chae
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Science, National University of Singapore, Block S4A, 18 Science Drive 4, Level 3, Singapore, 117543, Singapore.,Department of Pharmacy, National Cancer Centre Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Angie Hui Ling Yeo
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Science, National University of Singapore, Block S4A, 18 Science Drive 4, Level 3, Singapore, 117543, Singapore
| | - Maung Shwe
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Science, National University of Singapore, Block S4A, 18 Science Drive 4, Level 3, Singapore, 117543, Singapore
| | - Yan Xiang Gan
- Department of Pharmacy, National Cancer Centre Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Raymond C H Ng
- Duke-NUS Medical School Singapore, Singapore, Singapore.,Division of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Centre Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Pat Pak Yan Chu
- Singapore Cord Blood Bank, K.K. Women's and Children's Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | | | - Han Kiat Ho
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Science, National University of Singapore, Block S4A, 18 Science Drive 4, Level 3, Singapore, 117543, Singapore
| | - Alexandre Chan
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Science, National University of Singapore, Block S4A, 18 Science Drive 4, Level 3, Singapore, 117543, Singapore. .,Department of Pharmacy, National Cancer Centre Singapore, Singapore, Singapore. .,Duke-NUS Medical School Singapore, Singapore, Singapore.
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40
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Reumann R, Vierk R, Zhou L, Gries F, Kraus V, Mienert J, Romswinkel E, Morellini F, Ferrer I, Nicolini C, Fahnestock M, Rune G, Glatzel M, Galliciotti G. The serine protease inhibitor neuroserpin is required for normal synaptic plasticity and regulates learning and social behavior. Learn Mem 2017; 24:650-659. [PMID: 29142062 PMCID: PMC5688962 DOI: 10.1101/lm.045864.117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2017] [Accepted: 08/25/2017] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
The serine protease inhibitor neuroserpin regulates the activity of tissue-type plasminogen activator (tPA) in the nervous system. Neuroserpin expression is particularly prominent at late stages of neuronal development in most regions of the central nervous system (CNS), whereas it is restricted to regions related to learning and memory in the adult brain. The physiological expression pattern of neuroserpin, its high degree of colocalization with tPA within the CNS, together with its dysregulation in neuropsychiatric disorders, suggest a role in formation and refinement of synapses. In fact, studies in cell culture and mice point to a role for neuroserpin in dendritic branching, spine morphology, and modulation of behavior. In this study, we investigated the physiological role of neuroserpin in the regulation of synaptic density, synaptic plasticity, and behavior in neuroserpin-deficient mice. In the absence of neuroserpin, mice show a significant decrease in spine-synapse density in the CA1 region of the hippocampus, while expression of the key postsynaptic scaffold protein PSD-95 is increased in this region. Neuroserpin-deficient mice show decreased synaptic potentiation, as indicated by reduced long-term potentiation (LTP), whereas presynaptic paired-pulse facilitation (PPF) is unaffected. Consistent with altered synaptic plasticity, neuroserpin-deficient mice exhibit cognitive and sociability deficits in behavioral assays. However, although synaptic dysfunction is implicated in neuropsychiatric disorders, we do not detect alterations in expression of neuroserpin in fusiform gyrus of autism patients or in dorsolateral prefrontal cortex of schizophrenia patients. Our results identify neuroserpin as a modulator of synaptic plasticity, and point to a role for neuroserpin in learning and memory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Reumann
- Institute of Neuropathology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20246 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Ricardo Vierk
- Institute of Neuroanatomy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20246 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Lepu Zhou
- Institute of Neuroanatomy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20246 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Frederice Gries
- Institute of Neuropathology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20246 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Vanessa Kraus
- Research Group Behavioral Biology, Center for Molecular Neurobiology Hamburg, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20251 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Julia Mienert
- Research Group Behavioral Biology, Center for Molecular Neurobiology Hamburg, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20251 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Eva Romswinkel
- Research Group Behavioral Biology, Center for Molecular Neurobiology Hamburg, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20251 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Fabio Morellini
- Research Group Behavioral Biology, Center for Molecular Neurobiology Hamburg, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20251 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Isidre Ferrer
- Institute of Neuropathology, Bellvitge University Hospital, University of Barcelona, CIBERNED, 08907 Hospitalet de Llobregat, Spain
| | - Chiara Nicolini
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario L8S 4K1, Canada
| | - Margaret Fahnestock
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario L8S 4K1, Canada
| | - Gabriele Rune
- Institute of Neuroanatomy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20246 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Markus Glatzel
- Institute of Neuropathology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20246 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Giovanna Galliciotti
- Institute of Neuropathology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20246 Hamburg, Germany
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41
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Reilly J, Gallagher L, Chen JL, Leader G, Shen S. Bio-collections in autism research. Mol Autism 2017; 8:34. [PMID: 28702161 PMCID: PMC5504648 DOI: 10.1186/s13229-017-0154-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2017] [Accepted: 06/23/2017] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a group of complex neurodevelopmental disorders with diverse clinical manifestations and symptoms. In the last 10 years, there have been significant advances in understanding the genetic basis for ASD, critically supported through the establishment of ASD bio-collections and application in research. Here, we summarise a selection of major ASD bio-collections and their associated findings. Collectively, these include mapping ASD candidate genes, assessing the nature and frequency of gene mutations and their association with ASD clinical subgroups, insights into related molecular pathways such as the synapses, chromatin remodelling, transcription and ASD-related brain regions. We also briefly review emerging studies on the use of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) to potentially model ASD in culture. These provide deeper insight into ASD progression during development and could generate human cell models for drug screening. Finally, we provide perspectives concerning the utilities of ASD bio-collections and limitations, and highlight considerations in setting up a new bio-collection for ASD research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamie Reilly
- Regenerative Medicine Institute, School of Medicine, BioMedical Sciences Building, National University of Ireland (NUI), Galway, Ireland
| | - Louise Gallagher
- Trinity Translational Medicine Institute and Department of Psychiatry, Trinity Centre for Health Sciences, St. James Hospital Street, Dublin 8, Ireland
| | - June L Chen
- Department of Special Education, Faculty of Education, East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200062 China
| | - Geraldine Leader
- Irish Centre for Autism and Neurodevelopmental Research (ICAN), Department of Psychology, National University of Ireland Galway, University Road, Galway, Ireland
| | - Sanbing Shen
- Regenerative Medicine Institute, School of Medicine, BioMedical Sciences Building, National University of Ireland (NUI), Galway, Ireland
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Prenatal lipopolysaccharide induces hypothalamic dopaminergic hypoactivity and autistic-like behaviors: Repetitive self-grooming and stereotypies. Behav Brain Res 2017; 331:25-29. [PMID: 28526515 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2017.05.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2017] [Revised: 05/02/2017] [Accepted: 05/04/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Previous investigations by our group have shown that prenatal exposure to lipopolysaccharide (LPS), which mimics infection by gram-negative bacteria, induces social, cognitive, and communication deficits. For a complete screening of autistic-like behaviors, the objective of this study was to evaluate if our rat model also induces restricted and repetitive stereotyped behaviors. Thus, we studied the self-grooming microstructure. We also studied the neurochemistry of hypothalamus and frontal cortex, which are brain areas related to autism to better understand central mechanisms involved in our model. Prenatal LPS exposure on gestational day 9.5 increased the head washing episodes (frequency and time), as well as the total self-grooming. However, body grooming, paw/leg licking, tail/genital grooming, and circling behavior/tail chasing did not vary significantly among the groups. Moreover, prenatal LPS induced dopaminergic hypoactivity (HVA metabolite and turnover) in the hypothalamus. Therefore, our rat model induced restricted and repetitive stereotyped behaviors and the other main symptoms of autism experimentally studied in rodent models and also found in patients. The hypothalamic dopaminergic impairments seem to be associated with the autistic-like behaviors.
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43
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Differences in the Biological Functions of BDNF and proBDNF in the Central Nervous System. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2017. [DOI: 10.1007/s11055-017-0391-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
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44
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Bahi A. Hippocampal BDNF overexpression or microR124a silencing reduces anxiety- and autism-like behaviors in rats. Behav Brain Res 2017; 326:281-290. [PMID: 28284951 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2017.03.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2016] [Revised: 02/27/2017] [Accepted: 03/04/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
MicroRNA124a (miR124a) has emerged recently as a key player for multiple neuropsychiatric disorders including depression, anxiety, alcoholism, and cocaine addiction. Although we have previously reported that miR124a and its target the brain-derived neutrophic factor (BDNF) play an important role in autism-like behaviors, the molecular and behavioral dysfunctions remain unknown. The aim of this study was to understand the effects of sustained decreases in miR124a and increases of BDNF in the dentate gyrus (DG) on neonatal isolation-induced anxiety-and autism like behaviors in rats. Here we report that lentiviral-mediated silencing of miR124a in the adult DG attenuated neonatal isolation-induced anxiety-like behavior in the elevated plus maze (EPM) and open-field (OF) tests. Also, miR124a silencing decreased autism-like phenotype in the marble burying test (MBT), self-grooming (SG), and social interaction tests. Pearson's correlations demonstrated that high levels of BDNF, a direct target of miR124a, were negatively correlated with miR124a expression. Interestingly, viral-mediated BDNF overexpression in the DG also reversed the neonatal isolation-induced anxiety-and autism like phenotypes. Collectively, these findings suggest that miR124a, through its target BDNF, may influence neonatal isolation-induced anxiety-and autism like behaviors. In conclusion, these results do support the hypothesis that miR124a in discrete hippocampal areas contributes to anxiety- and autism-like behaviors and may be involved in the neuroadaptations underlying the development of autism spectrum disorders as a persistent and lasting condition, and therefore provide a clearer mechanistic framework for understanding the physiopathology of such psychiatric illnesses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amine Bahi
- Department of Anatomy, Tawam Medical Campus, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates.
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45
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Targeting Neurotrophins to Specific Populations of Neurons: NGF, BDNF, and NT-3 and Their Relevance for Treatment of Spinal Cord Injury. Int J Mol Sci 2017; 18:ijms18030548. [PMID: 28273811 PMCID: PMC5372564 DOI: 10.3390/ijms18030548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 199] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2016] [Revised: 02/23/2017] [Accepted: 02/24/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurotrophins are a family of proteins that regulate neuronal survival, synaptic function, and neurotransmitter release, and elicit the plasticity and growth of axons within the adult central and peripheral nervous system. Since the 1950s, these factors have been extensively studied in traumatic injury models. Here we review several members of the classical family of neurotrophins, the receptors they bind to, and their contribution to axonal regeneration and sprouting of sensory and motor pathways after spinal cord injury (SCI). We focus on nerve growth factor (NGF), brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), and neurotrophin-3 (NT-3), and their effects on populations of neurons within diverse spinal tracts. Understanding the cellular targets of neurotrophins and the responsiveness of specific neuronal populations will allow for the most efficient treatment strategies in the injured spinal cord.
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46
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Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor Levels in Autism: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. J Autism Dev Disord 2017; 47:1018-1029. [DOI: 10.1007/s10803-016-3024-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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47
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Riffault B, Kourdougli N, Dumon C, Ferrand N, Buhler E, Schaller F, Chambon C, Rivera C, Gaiarsa JL, Porcher C. Pro-Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (proBDNF)-Mediated p75NTR Activation Promotes Depolarizing Actions of GABA and Increases Susceptibility to Epileptic Seizures. Cereb Cortex 2016; 28:510-527. [DOI: 10.1093/cercor/bhw385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2016] [Accepted: 11/17/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Baptiste Riffault
- Aix-Marseille University, Département de Biologie, Parc Scientifique de Luminy, 13273 Marseille, France
- INSERM—Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, Unité 901, Marseille, Parc Scientifique de Luminy, 13273 Marseille, France
- INMED—Institut de Neurobiologie de la Méditerranée, Parc Scientifique de Luminy, 13273 Marseille, France
| | - Nazim Kourdougli
- Aix-Marseille University, Département de Biologie, Parc Scientifique de Luminy, 13273 Marseille, France
- INSERM—Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, Unité 901, Marseille, Parc Scientifique de Luminy, 13273 Marseille, France
- INMED—Institut de Neurobiologie de la Méditerranée, Parc Scientifique de Luminy, 13273 Marseille, France
| | - Camille Dumon
- Aix-Marseille University, Département de Biologie, Parc Scientifique de Luminy, 13273 Marseille, France
- INSERM—Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, Unité 901, Marseille, Parc Scientifique de Luminy, 13273 Marseille, France
- INMED—Institut de Neurobiologie de la Méditerranée, Parc Scientifique de Luminy, 13273 Marseille, France
| | - Nadine Ferrand
- Aix-Marseille University, Département de Biologie, Parc Scientifique de Luminy, 13273 Marseille, France
- INSERM—Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, Unité 901, Marseille, Parc Scientifique de Luminy, 13273 Marseille, France
- INMED—Institut de Neurobiologie de la Méditerranée, Parc Scientifique de Luminy, 13273 Marseille, France
| | - Emmanuelle Buhler
- Aix-Marseille University, Département de Biologie, Parc Scientifique de Luminy, 13273 Marseille, France
- Plateforme Post-Génomique, INMED, 13273 Marseille, France
| | - Fabienne Schaller
- Aix-Marseille University, Département de Biologie, Parc Scientifique de Luminy, 13273 Marseille, France
- Plateforme Post-Génomique, INMED, 13273 Marseille, France
| | - Caroline Chambon
- Aix-Marseille University, Département de Biologie, NIA, UMR 7260 CNRS, 13331 cedex 03, Marseille, France
| | - Claudio Rivera
- Aix-Marseille University, Département de Biologie, Parc Scientifique de Luminy, 13273 Marseille, France
- INSERM—Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, Unité 901, Marseille, Parc Scientifique de Luminy, 13273 Marseille, France
- INMED—Institut de Neurobiologie de la Méditerranée, Parc Scientifique de Luminy, 13273 Marseille, France
| | - Jean-Luc Gaiarsa
- Aix-Marseille University, Département de Biologie, Parc Scientifique de Luminy, 13273 Marseille, France
- INSERM—Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, Unité 901, Marseille, Parc Scientifique de Luminy, 13273 Marseille, France
- INMED—Institut de Neurobiologie de la Méditerranée, Parc Scientifique de Luminy, 13273 Marseille, France
| | - Christophe Porcher
- Aix-Marseille University, Département de Biologie, Parc Scientifique de Luminy, 13273 Marseille, France
- INSERM—Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, Unité 901, Marseille, Parc Scientifique de Luminy, 13273 Marseille, France
- INMED—Institut de Neurobiologie de la Méditerranée, Parc Scientifique de Luminy, 13273 Marseille, France
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Chau DKF, Choi AYT, Yang W, Leung WN, Chan CW. Downregulation of glutamatergic and GABAergic proteins in valproric acid associated social impairment during adolescence in mice. Behav Brain Res 2016; 316:255-260. [PMID: 27614006 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2016.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2016] [Revised: 08/26/2016] [Accepted: 09/01/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The etiology of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) remains controversial. Deficits in social communication are one of the key criteria for ASD diagnosis. Valproic acid (VPA), which is an anti-epileptic and anti-depressive drug, is one of the teratogens to cause ASD onset. Moreover, synaptic dysfunction is suggested as one of the major causative factor in VPA-induced ASD in vitro and in vivo studies. Herein, this study aimed to determine the excitatory/inhibitory synaptic mRNA and protein expression in VPA-induced autistic mice. Pregnant BALB/c mice were injected peritoneally with a single dose of 600mg/kg VPA on embryonic day (E) 12.5. Social impairment was verified by three chamber sociability tests on postnatal days (PND) 28, 35, 42 and 49. Cortical synaptic mRNA and protein expressions were examined on PND 50. The excitatory synaptic proteins NR2A, NR2B, NR2C were significantly down-regulated by 80.0% (p<0.01), 51.5% (p<0.05) and 81.5% (p<0.05) respectively. Furthermore, the NMDAR expression regulatory protein BDNF was also found to be significantly downregulated by 76.8% (p<0.05). GAD65, GAD67, GABRA1, GABRA5, GABRB2 from the GABAergic inhibitory synaptic pathway were significantly downregulated by 21.3% (p<0.05), 77.0% (p<0.05), 53.9% (p<0.05), 56.9% (p<0.05) and 55.2% (p<0.01) respectively in the cortex of VPA-induced mice. Taken together, our results suggested that synaptic dysfunction might be involved in the social impairments in VPA-induced ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Davor Kin-Fan Chau
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong
| | - Angus Yiu-Ting Choi
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong
| | - Wen Yang
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong
| | - Wing Nang Leung
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong
| | - Chun Wai Chan
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong.
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Armeanu R, Mokkonen M, Crespi B. Meta-Analysis of BDNF Levels in Autism. Cell Mol Neurobiol 2016; 37:949-954. [PMID: 27501933 DOI: 10.1007/s10571-016-0415-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2016] [Accepted: 08/03/2016] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) centrally mediates growth, differentiation and survival of neurons, and the synaptic plasticity that underlies learning and memory. Recent meta-analyses have reported significantly lower peripheral BDNF among individuals with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and depression, compared with controls. To evaluate the role of BDNF in autism, and to compare autism to psychotic-affective disorders with regard to BDNF, we conducted a meta-analysis of BDNF levels in autism. Inclusion criteria were met by 15 studies, which included 1242 participants. The meta-analysis estimated a significant summary effect size of 0.33 (95 % CI 0.21-0.45, P < 0.001), suggesting higher BDNF in autism than in controls. The studies showed notable heterogeneity, but no evidence of publication biases. Higher peripheral BDNF in autism is concordant with several neurological and psychological theories on the causes and symptoms of this condition, and it contrasts notably with the lower levels of BDNF found in schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raluca Armeanu
- Department of Biological Sciences, Simon Fraser University, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, BC, V5A 1S6, Canada
| | - Mikael Mokkonen
- Department of Biological Sciences, Simon Fraser University, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, BC, V5A 1S6, Canada
- Department of Biological and Environmental Science, University of Jyväskylä, P.O. Box 35, 40014, Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Bernard Crespi
- Department of Biological Sciences, Simon Fraser University, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, BC, V5A 1S6, Canada.
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Baj G, Pinhero V, Vaghi V, Tongiorgi E. Signaling pathways controlling activity-dependent local translation of BDNF and their localization in dendritic arbors. J Cell Sci 2016; 129:2852-64. [PMID: 27270670 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.177626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2015] [Accepted: 05/31/2016] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is encoded by multiple mRNA variants whose differential subcellular distribution constitutes a 'spatial code' for local translation of BDNF and selective morphological remodeling of dendrites. Here, we investigated where BDNF translation takes place and what are the signaling pathways involved. Cultured hippocampal neurons treated with KCl showed increased BDNF in the soma, proximal and distal dendrites, even in quaternary branches. This activity-dependent increase of BDNF was abolished by cycloheximide, suggesting local translation, and required activation of glutamate and Trk receptors. Our data showed that BDNF translation was regulated by multiple signaling cascades including RAS-Erk and mTOR pathways, and CaMKII-CPEB1, Aurora-A-CPEB1 and Src-ZBP1 pathways. Aurora-A, CPEB1, ZBP1 (also known as IGF2BP1), eiF4E, S6 (also known as rpS6) were present throughout the dendritic arbor. Neuronal activity increased the levels of Aurora-A, CPEB1 and ZBP1 in distal dendrites whereas those of eiF4E and S6 were unaffected. BDNF-6, the main dendritic BDNF transcript, was translated in the same subcellular domains and in response to the same pathways as total BDNF. In conclusion, we identified the signaling cascades controlling BDNF translation and we describe how the translational machinery localization is modulated in response to electrical activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriele Baj
- Department of Life Sciences, B.R.A.I.N. Centre for Neuroscience, University of Trieste, Trieste 34127, Italy
| | - Vera Pinhero
- Department of Life Sciences, B.R.A.I.N. Centre for Neuroscience, University of Trieste, Trieste 34127, Italy
| | - Valentina Vaghi
- Department of Life Sciences, B.R.A.I.N. Centre for Neuroscience, University of Trieste, Trieste 34127, Italy
| | - Enrico Tongiorgi
- Department of Life Sciences, B.R.A.I.N. Centre for Neuroscience, University of Trieste, Trieste 34127, Italy
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