Subarachnoid injection of Microfil reveals connections between cerebrospinal fluid and nasal lymphatics in the non-human primate

Regulation of brain fluid volumes and pressures: basic principles, intracranial hypertension, ventriculomegaly and hydrocephalus

The principles of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) production, circulation and outflow and regulation of fluid volumes and pressures in the normal brain are summarised. Abnormalities in these aspects in intracranial hypertension, ventriculomegaly and hydrocephalus are discussed. The brain parenchyma has a cellular framework with interstitial fluid (ISF) in the intervening spaces. Framework stress and interstitial fluid pressure (ISFP) combined provide the total stress which, after allowing for gravity, normally equals intracerebral pressure (ICP) with gradients of total stress too small to measure. Fluid pressure may differ from ICP in the parenchyma and collapsed subarachnoid spaces when the parenchyma presses against the meninges. Fluid pressure gradients determine fluid movements. In adults, restricting CSF outflow from subarachnoid spaces produces intracranial hypertension which, when CSF volumes change very little, is called idiopathic intracranial hypertension (iIH). Raised ICP in iIH is accompanied by increased venous sinus pressure, though which is cause and which effect is unclear. In infants with growing skulls, restriction in outflow leads to increased head and CSF volumes. In adults, ventriculomegaly can arise due to cerebral atrophy or, in hydrocephalus, to obstructions to intracranial CSF flow. In non-communicating hydrocephalus, flow through or out of the ventricles is somehow obstructed, whereas in communicating hydrocephalus, the obstruction is somewhere between the cisterna magna and cranial sites of outflow. When normal outflow routes are obstructed, continued CSF production in the ventricles may be partially balanced by outflow through the parenchyma via an oedematous periventricular layer and perivascular spaces. In adults, secondary hydrocephalus with raised ICP results from obvious obstructions to flow. By contrast, with the more subtly obstructed flow seen in normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH), fluid pressure must be reduced elsewhere, e.g. in some subarachnoid spaces. In idiopathic NPH, where ventriculomegaly is accompanied by gait disturbance, dementia and/or urinary incontinence, the functional deficits can sometimes be reversed by shunting or third ventriculostomy. Parenchymal shrinkage is irreversible in late stage hydrocephalus with cellular framework loss but may not occur in early stages, whether by exclusion of fluid or otherwise. Further studies that are needed to explain the development of hydrocephalus are outlined.

[1-11C]-Butanol Positron Emission Tomography reveals an impaired brain to nasal turbinates pathway in aging amyloid positive subjects

BACKGROUND

Reduced clearance of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) has been suggested as a pathological feature of Alzheimer's disease (AD). With extensive documentation in non-human mammals and contradictory human neuroimaging data it remains unknown whether the nasal mucosa is a CSF drainage site in humans. Here, we used dynamic PET with [1-11C]-Butanol, a highly permeable radiotracer with no appreciable brain binding, to test the hypothesis that tracer drainage from the nasal pathway reflects CSF drainage from brain. As a test of the hypothesis, we examined whether brain and nasal fluid drainage times were correlated and affected by brain amyloid.

METHODS

24 cognitively normal subjects (≥ 65 years) were dynamically PET imaged for 60 min. using [1-11C]-Butanol. Imaging with either [11C]-PiB or [18F]-FBB identified 8 amyloid PET positive (Aβ+) and 16 Aβ- subjects. MRI-determined regions of interest (ROI) included: the carotid artery, the lateral orbitofrontal (LOF) brain, the cribriform plate, and an All-turbinate region comprised of the superior, middle, and inferior turbinates. The bilateral temporalis muscle and jugular veins served as control regions. Regional time-activity were used to model tracer influx, egress, and AUC.

RESULTS

LOF and All-turbinate 60 min AUC were positively associated, thus suggesting a connection between the brain and the nose. Further, the Aβ+ subgroup demonstrated impaired tracer kinetics, marked by reduced tracer influx and slower egress.

CONCLUSION

The data show that tracer kinetics for brain and nasal turbinates are related to each other and both reflect the amyloid status of the brain. As such, these data add to evidence that the nasal pathway is a potential CSF drainage site in humans. These data warrant further investigation of brain and nasal contributions to protein clearance in neurodegenerative disease.

Nasopharyngeal lymphatic plexus is a hub for cerebrospinal fluid drainage

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in the subarachnoid space around the brain has long been known to drain through the lymphatics to cervical lymph nodes1-17, but the connections and regulation have been challenging to identify. Here, using fluorescent CSF tracers in Prox1-GFP lymphatic reporter mice18, we found that the nasopharyngeal lymphatic plexus is a major hub for CSF outflow to deep cervical lymph nodes. This plexus had unusual valves and short lymphangions but no smooth-muscle coverage, whereas downstream deep cervical lymphatics had typical semilunar valves, long lymphangions and smooth muscle coverage that transported CSF to the deep cervical lymph nodes. α-Adrenergic and nitric oxide signalling in the smooth muscle cells regulated CSF drainage through the transport properties of deep cervical lymphatics. During ageing, the nasopharyngeal lymphatic plexus atrophied, but deep cervical lymphatics were not similarly altered, and CSF outflow could still be increased by adrenergic or nitric oxide signalling. Single-cell analysis of gene expression in lymphatic endothelial cells of the nasopharyngeal plexus of aged mice revealed increased type I interferon signalling and other inflammatory cytokines. The importance of evidence for the nasopharyngeal lymphatic plexus functioning as a CSF outflow hub is highlighted by its regression during ageing. Yet, the ageing-resistant pharmacological activation of deep cervical lymphatic transport towards lymph nodes can still increase CSF outflow, offering an approach for augmenting CSF clearance in age-related neurological conditions in which greater efflux would be beneficial.

Immunohistochemical visualization of lymphatic vessels in human dura mater: methodological perspectives

BACKGROUND

Despite greatly renewed interest concerning meningeal lymphatic function over recent years, the lymphatic structures of human dura mater have been less characterized. The available information derives exclusively from autopsy specimens. This study addressed methodological aspects of immunohistochemistry for visualization and characterization of lymphatic vessels in the dura of patients.

METHODS

Dura biopsies were obtained from the right frontal region of the patients with idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus (iNPH) who underwent shunt surgery as part of treatment. The dura specimens were prepared using three different methods: Paraformaldehyde (PFA) 4% (Method #1), paraformaldehyde (PFA) 0.5% (Method #2), and freeze-fixation (Method #3). They were further examined with immunohistochemistry using the lymphatic cell marker lymphatic vessel endothelial hyaluronan receptor 1 (LYVE-1), and as validation marker we used podoplanin (PDPN).

RESULTS

The study included 30 iNPH patients who underwent shunt surgery. The dura specimens were obtained average 16.1 ± 4.5 mm lateral to the superior sagittal sinus in the right frontal region (about 12 cm posterior to glabella). While lymphatic structures were seen in 0/7 patients using Method #1, it was found in 4/6 subjects (67%) with Method #2, while in 16/17 subjects (94%) using Method #3. To this end, we characterized three types of meningeal lymphatic vessels: (1) Lymphatic vessels in intimate contact with blood vessels. (2) Lymphatic vessels without nearby blood vessels. (3) Clusters of LYVE-1-expressing cells interspersed with blood vessels. In general, highest density of lymphatic vessels were observed towards the arachnoid membrane rather than towards the skull.

CONCLUSIONS

The visualization of meningeal lymphatic vessels in humans seems to be highly sensitive to the tissue processing method. Our observations disclosed most abundant lymphatic vessels towards the arachnoid membrane, and were seen either in close association with blood vessels or remote from blood vessels.

Quantifying cerebrospinal fluid dynamics: A review of human neuroimaging contributions to CSF physiology and neurodegenerative disease

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), predominantly produced in the ventricles and circulating throughout the brain and spinal cord, is a key protective mechanism of the central nervous system (CNS). Physical cushioning, nutrient delivery, metabolic waste, including protein clearance, are key functions of the CSF in humans. CSF volume and flow dynamics regulate intracranial pressure and are fundamental to diagnosing disorders including normal pressure hydrocephalus, intracranial hypotension, CSF leaks, and possibly Alzheimer's disease (AD). The ability of CSF to clear normal and pathological proteins, such as amyloid-beta (Aβ), tau, alpha synuclein and others, implicates it production, circulation, and composition, in many neuropathologies. Several neuroimaging modalities have been developed to probe CSF fluid dynamics and better relate CSF volume and flow to anatomy and clinical conditions. Approaches include 2-photon microscopic techniques, MRI (tracer-based, gadolinium contrast, endogenous phase-contrast), and dynamic positron emission tomography (PET) using existing approved radiotracers. Here, we discuss CSF flow neuroimaging, from animal models to recent clinical-research advances, summarizing current endeavors to quantify and map CSF flow with implications towards pathophysiology, new biomarkers, and treatments of neurological diseases.

Cerebrospinal Fluid Homeostasis and Hydrodynamics: A Review of Facts and Theories

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

According to the classical hypothesis, the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is actively secreted inside the brain's ventricular system, predominantly by the choroid plexuses, before flowing unidirectionally in a cranio-caudal orientation toward the arachnoid granulations (AGs), where it is reabsorbed into the dural venous sinuses. This concept has been accepted as a doctrine for more than 100 years and was subjected only to minor modifications. Its inability to provide an adequate explanation to questions arising from the everyday clinical practice, in addition to the ever growing pool of experimental data contradicting it, has led to the identification of its limitations. Literature includes an increasing number of studies suggesting a more complex mechanism than that previously described. This review article summarizes the proposed mechanisms of CSF regulation, referring to the key clinical and experimental developments supporting or defying them.

METHODS

A non-systematical literature search of the major databases was performed for studies on the mechanisms of CSF homeostasis. Gray literature was additionally assessed employing a hand-search technique. No restrictions were imposed regarding the time, language, or type of publication.

CONCLUSION

CSF secretion and absorption are expected to take place throughout the entire brain's capillaries network under the regulation of hydrostatic and osmotic gradients. The unidirectional flow is defied, highlighting the possibility of its complete absence. The importance of AGs is brought into question, potentiating the significance of the lymphatic system as the primary site of reabsorption. However, the definition of hydrocephalus and its treatment strategies remain strongly associated with the classical hypothesis.

Harnessing cerebrospinal fluid circulation for drug delivery to brain tissues

Initially thought to be useful only to reach tissues in the immediate vicinity of the CSF circulatory system, CSF circulation is now increasingly viewed as a viable pathway to deliver certain therapeutics deeper into brain tissues. There is emerging evidence that this goal is achievable in the case of large therapeutic proteins, provided conditions are met that are described herein. We show how fluid dynamic modeling helps predict infusion rate and duration to overcome high CSF turnover. We posit that despite model limitations and controversies, fluid dynamic models, pharmacokinetic models, preclinical testing, and a qualitative understanding of the glymphatic system circulation can be used to estimate drug penetration in brain tissues. Lastly, in addition to highlighting landmark scientific and medical literature, we provide practical advice on formulation development, device selection, and pharmacokinetic modeling. Our review of clinical studies suggests a growing interest for intra-CSF delivery, particularly for targeted proteins.

Eye changes in space : New insights into clinical aspects, pathogenesis, and prevention

BACKGROUND

More than ever research into changes in the eye caused by long-term space flight is becoming the focus of the international and national space agencies National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), European Space Agency (ESA) and German Aerospace Center (DLR). In addition to space radiation-induced cataract formation considerable eye changes, summarized under space flight-associated neuro-ocular syndrome (SANS), can occur.

OBJECTIVE

This article gives an overview of the current state of research and future directions in the field of research concerned with ocular alterations in SANS and presents the relevance for terrestrial ophthalmological research.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

An analysis of existing publications on SANS in PubMed and reports on the risk of SANS published by the NASA of the USA was carried out.

RESULTS

The reasons for the development of the eye changes in space have not been clarified. Factors such as the increase in intracranial pressure, fluid shifts, hypercapnia and genetic factors are the subject of intensive research efforts. A terrestrial model for the induction of papilledema could be established (bed rest studies with -6° head-down tilt as a space analogue). Countermeasures for the development of eye changes, such as intermittent artificial gravity, are the subject of current research studies.

CONCLUSION

Research into SANS as part of bed rest studies will provide further important insights in the future for space research and also for terrestrial research. Clinical research projects can be derived from space research.

Impaired Peripheral Lymphatic Function and Cerebrospinal Fluid Outflow in a Mouse Model of Alzheimer's Disease

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) outflow from the brain occurs through absorption into the arachnoid villi and, more predominantly, through meningeal and olfactory lymphatics that ultimately drain into the peripheral lymphatics. Impaired CSF outflow has been postulated as a contributing mechanism in Alzheimer's disease (AD). Herein we conducted near-infrared fluorescence imaging of CSF outflow into the peripheral lymph nodes (LNs) and of peripheral lymphatic function in a transgenic mouse model of AD (5XFAD) and wild-type (WT) littermates. CSF outflow was assessed from change in fluorescence intensity in the submandibular LNs as a function of time following bolus, an intrathecal injection of indocyanine green (ICG). Peripheral lymphatic function was measured by assessing lymphangion contractile function in lymphatics draining into the popliteal LN following intradermal ICG injection in the dorsal aspect of the hind paw. The results show 1) significantly impaired CSF outflow into the submandibular LNs of 5XFAD mice and 2) reduced contractile frequency in the peripheral lymphatics as compared to WT mice. Impaired CSF clearance was also evidenced by reduction of fluorescence on ventral surfaces of extracted brains of 5XFAD mice at euthanasia. These results support the hypothesis that lymphatic congestion caused by reduced peripheral lymphatic function could limit CSF outflow and may contribute to the cause and/or progression of AD.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Modeling of the Glymphatic System

The glymphatic system is a newly discovered waste drainage pathway in the brain; it plays an important role in many neurological diseases. Ongoing research utilizing various cerebrospinal fluid tracer infusions, either directly or indirectly into the brain parenchyma, is investigating clearance pathways by using distinct imaging techniques. In the present review, we discuss the role of the glymphatic system in various neurological diseases and efflux pathways of brain waste clearance based on current evidence and controversies. We mainly focus on new magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) modeling techniques, along with traditional computational modeling, for a better understanding of the glymphatic system function. Future sophisticated modeling techniques hold the potential to generate quantitative maps for glymphatic system parameters that could contribute to the diagnosis, monitoring, and prognosis of neurological diseases. The non-invasive nature of MRI may provide a safe and effective way to translate glymphatic system measurements from bench-to-bedside.

[Eye changes in space : New insights into clinical aspects, pathogenesis and prevention]

BACKGROUND

More than ever research into changes in the eye caused by long-term space flight is becoming the focus of the international and national space agencies National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), European Space Agency (ESA) and German Aerospace Center (DLR). In addition to space radiation-induced cataract formation considerable eye changes, summarized under space flight-associated neuro-ocular syndrome (SANS), can occur.

OBJECTIVE

This article gives an overview of the current state of research and future directions in the field of research concerned with ocular alterations in SANS and presents the relevance for terrestrial ophthalmological research.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

An analysis of existing publications on SANS in PubMed and reports on the risk of SANS published by the NASA of the USA was carried out.

RESULTS

The reasons for the development of the eye changes in space have not been clarified. Factors such as the increase in intracranial pressure, fluid shifts, hypercapnia and genetic factors are the subject of intensive research efforts. A terrestrial model for the induction of papilledema could be established (bed rest studies with -6° head-down tilt as a space analogue). Countermeasures for the development of eye changes, such as intermittent artificial gravity, are the subject of current research studies.

CONCLUSION

Research into SANS as part of bed rest studies will provide further important insights in the future for space research and also for terrestrial research. Clinical research projects can be derived from space research.

Intrathecal drug delivery in the era of nanomedicine

Administration of substances directly into the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) that surrounds the brain and spinal cord is one approach that can circumvent the blood-brain barrier to enable drug delivery to the central nervous system (CNS). However, molecules that have been administered by intrathecal injection, which includes intraventricular, intracisternal, or lumbar locations, encounter new barriers within the subarachnoid space. These barriers include relatively high rates of turnover as CSF clears and potentially inadequate delivery to tissue or cellular targets. Nanomedicine could offer a solution. In contrast to the fate of freely administered drugs, nanomedicine systems can navigate the subarachnoid space to sustain delivery of therapeutic molecules, genes, and imaging agents within the CNS. Some evidence suggests that certain nanomedicine agents can reach the parenchyma following intrathecal administration. Here, we will address the preclinical and clinical use of intrathecal nanomedicine, including nanoparticles, microparticles, dendrimers, micelles, liposomes, polyplexes, and other colloidalal materials that function to alter the distribution of molecules in tissue. Our review forms a foundational understanding of drug delivery to the CSF that can be built upon to better engineer nanomedicine for intrathecal treatment of disease.

Subarachnoid cerebrospinal fluid is essential for normal development of the cerebral cortex

The central nervous system develops around a fluid filled space which persists in the adult within the ventricles, spinal canal and around the outside of the brain and spinal cord. Ventricular fluid is known to act as a growth medium and stimulator of proliferation and differentiation to neural stem cells but the role of CSF in the subarachnoid space has not been fully investigated except for its role in the recently described "glymphatic" system. Fundamental changes occur in the control and coordination of CNS development upon completion of brain stem and spinal cord development and initiation of cortical development. These include changes in gene expression, changes in fluid and fluid source from neural tube fluid to cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), changes in fluid volume, composition and fluid flow pathway, with exit of high volume CSF into the subarachnoid space and the critical need for fluid drainage. We used a number of experimental approaches to test a predicted critical role for CSF in development of the cerebral cortex in rodents and humans. Data from fetuses affected by spina bifida and/or hydrocephalus are correlated with experimental evidence on proliferation and migration of cortical cells from the germinal epithelium in rodent neural tube defects, as well as embryonic brain slice experiments demonstrating a requirement for CSF to contact both ventricular and pial surfaces of the developing cortex for normal proliferation and migration. We discuss the possibility that complications with the fluid system are likely to underlie developmental disorders affecting the cerebral cortex as well as function and integrity of the cortex throughout life.

The Movement of Cerebrospinal Fluid and Its Relationship with Substances Behavior in Cerebrospinal and Interstitial Fluid

The cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) movement and its influence on substance distribution and elimination from the CSF system have been thoroughly analyzed and discussed in the light of the new hypothesis of CSF physiology. As a result, CSF movement is not presented as a circulation, but a permanent rhythmic systolic-diastolic pulsation in all directions. Such movement also represents the main force of substance distribution inside the CSF system. This distribution occurs in all directions, i.e., in the direction of the imagined circulation, as well as in the opposite direction, and depends on the application site and the resident time of tested substance, where longer resident time means longer distribution distance. Transport mechanisms situated on the microvessels inside the central nervous system (CNS) parenchyma play the key role in substance elimination from the CSF and interstitial fluid (ISF) compartments, which freely communicate. If a certain transport mechanism is not available at one site, the substance will be distributed by CSF movement along the CSF system and into the CNS region where that transport mechanism is available. Pharmacological manipulation suggests that the residence time and the substance travel distance along the CSF system depend on the capacity of transport mechanisms situated on CNS blood capillaries. Physiological absorption of the CSF into the venous sinuses and/or lymphatics, due to their small surface area, should be of minor importance in comparison with the huge absorptive surface area of the microvessel network.

Anatomical basis and physiological role of cerebrospinal fluid transport through the murine cribriform plate

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) flows through the brain, transporting chemical signals and removing waste. CSF production in the brain is balanced by a constant outflow of CSF, the anatomical basis of which is poorly understood. Here, we characterized the anatomy and physiological function of the CSF outflow pathway along the olfactory sensory nerves through the cribriform plate, and into the nasal epithelia. Chemical ablation of olfactory sensory nerves greatly reduced outflow of CSF through the cribriform plate. The reduction in CSF outflow did not cause an increase in intracranial pressure (ICP), consistent with an alteration in the pattern of CSF drainage or production. Our results suggest that damage to olfactory sensory neurons (such as from air pollution) could contribute to altered CSF turnover and flow, providing a potential mechanism for neurological diseases.

Blood⁻Brain Barrier, Lymphatic Clearance, and Recovery: Ariadne's Thread in Labyrinths of Hypotheses

The peripheral lymphatic system plays a crucial role in the recovery mechanisms after many pathological changes, such as infection, trauma, vascular, or metabolic diseases. The lymphatic clearance of different tissues from waste products, viruses, bacteria, and toxic proteins significantly contributes to the correspondent recovery processes. However, understanding of the cerebral lymphatic functions is a challenging problem. The exploration of mechanisms of lymphatic communication with brain fluids as well as the role of the lymphatic system in brain drainage, clearance, and recovery is still in its infancy. Here we review novel concepts on the anatomy and physiology of the lymphatics in the brain, which warrant a substantial revision of our knowledge about the role of lymphatics in the rehabilitation of the brain functions after neural pathologies. We discuss a new vision on the connective bridge between the opening of a blood–brain barrier and activation of the meningeal lymphatic clearance. The ability to stimulate the lymph flow in the brain, is likely to play an important role in developing future innovative strategies in neurorehabilitation therapy.

Elimination of substances from the brain parenchyma: efflux via perivascular pathways and via the blood-brain barrier

This review considers efflux of substances from brain parenchyma quantified as values of clearances (CL, stated in µL g-1 min-1). Total clearance of a substance is the sum of clearance values for all available routes including perivascular pathways and the blood-brain barrier. Perivascular efflux contributes to the clearance of all water-soluble substances. Substances leaving via the perivascular routes may enter cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) or lymph. These routes are also involved in entry to the parenchyma from CSF. However, evidence demonstrating net fluid flow inwards along arteries and then outwards along veins (the glymphatic hypothesis) is still lacking. CLperivascular, that via perivascular routes, has been measured by following the fate of exogenously applied labelled tracer amounts of sucrose, inulin or serum albumin, which are not metabolized or eliminated across the blood-brain barrier. With these substances values of total CL ≅ 1 have been measured. Substances that are eliminated at least partly by other routes, i.e. across the blood-brain barrier, have higher total CL values. Substances crossing the blood-brain barrier may do so by passive, non-specific means with CLblood-brain barrier values ranging from < 0.01 for inulin to > 1000 for water and CO2. CLblood-brain barrier values for many small solutes are predictable from their oil/water partition and molecular weight. Transporters specific for glucose, lactate and many polar substrates facilitate efflux across the blood-brain barrier producing CLblood-brain barrier values > 50. The principal route for movement of Na+ and Cl- ions across the blood-brain barrier is probably paracellular through tight junctions between the brain endothelial cells producing CLblood-brain barrier values ~ 1. There are large fluxes of amino acids into and out of the brain across the blood-brain barrier but only small net fluxes have been observed suggesting substantial reuse of essential amino acids and α-ketoacids within the brain. Amyloid-β efflux, which is measurably faster than efflux of inulin, is primarily across the blood-brain barrier. Amyloid-β also leaves the brain parenchyma via perivascular efflux and this may be important as the route by which amyloid-β reaches arterial walls resulting in cerebral amyloid angiopathy.

In Vivo Spinal Distribution of Cy5.5 Fluorescent Dye after Injection via the Lateral Ventricle and Cisterna Magna in Rat Model

Objective

The purpose of this study was to find an optimal delivery route for clinical trials of intrathecal cell therapy for spinal cord injury in preclinical stage.

Methods

We compared in vivo distribution of Cy5.5 fluorescent dye in the spinal cord region at various time points utilizing in vivo optical imaging techniques, which was injected into the lateral ventricle (LV) or cisterna magna (CM) of rats.

Results

Although CM locates nearer to the spinal cord than the LV, significantly higher signal of Cy5.5 was detected in the thoracic and lumbar spinal cord region at all time points tested when Cy5.5 was injected into the LV. In the LV injection Cy5.5 signal in the thoracic and lumbar spinal cord was observed within 12 hours after injection, which was maintained until 72 hours after injection. In contrast, Cy5.5 signal was concentrated at the injection site in the CM injection at all time points.

Conclusion

These data suggested that the LV might be suitable for preclinical injection route of therapeutics targeting the spinal cord to test their treatment efficacy and biosafety for spinal cord diseases in small animal models.

Space flight-associated neuro-ocular syndrome (SANS)

Interesting novel and somewhat perplexing physiologic and pathologic neuro-ocular findings have been documented in astronauts during and after long duration space flight (LDSF). These findings collectively have been termed the "space flight-associated neuro-ocular syndrome" (SANS). The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) in the United States has meticulously and prospectively documented the clinical, ultrasound, optical coherence tomography imaging, and radiographic findings of SANS including unilateral and bilateral optic disc edema, globe flattening, choroidal and retinal folds, hyperopic refractive error shifts, and nerve fiber layer infarcts (i.e., cotton wool spots). NASA and collaborating researchers continue to study SANS in preparation for future manned missions to space, including continued trips to the ISS, a return to the moon, or perhaps new voyages to the asteroid belt, or the planet, Mars.

Meningeal Immunity, Drainage, and Tertiary Lymphoid Structure Formation

For decades, the brain has been considered an immune-privileged organ, meaning that the brain was mainly ignored by the immune system and that the presence of immune cells, notably of the adaptive arm, was a hallmark of pathological conditions. Over the past few decades, the definition of the immune privilege continues to be refined. There has been evidence accumulating that shows that the immune system plays a role in proper brain function. This evidence may represent an effective source of therapeutic targets for neurological disorders. In this chapter, we discuss the recent advances in understanding the immunity of the brain and describe how tertiary lymphoid structures can be generated in the central nervous system, which might represent a new avenue to treat neurological disorders.

Anesthesia with Dexmedetomidine and Low-dose Isoflurane Increases Solute Transport via the Glymphatic Pathway in Rat Brain When Compared with High-dose Isoflurane

BACKGROUND

The glymphatic pathway transports cerebrospinal fluid through the brain, thereby facilitating waste removal. A unique aspect of this pathway is that its function depends on the state of consciousness of the brain and is associated with norepinephrine activity. A current view is that all anesthetics will increase glymphatic transport by inducing unconsciousness. This view implies that the effect of anesthetics on glymphatic transport should be independent of their mechanism of action, as long as they induce unconsciousness. We tested this hypothesis by comparing the supplementary effect of dexmedetomidine, which lowers norepinephrine, with isoflurane only, which does not.

METHODS

Female rats were anesthetized with either isoflurane (N = 8) or dexmedetomidine plus low-dose isoflurane (N = 8). Physiologic parameters were recorded continuously. Glymphatic transport was quantified by contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging. Cerebrospinal fluid and gray and white matter volumes were quantified from T1 maps, and blood vessel diameters were extracted from time-of-flight magnetic resonance angiograms. Electroencephalograms were recorded in separate groups of rats.

RESULTS

Glymphatic transport was enhanced by 32% in rats anesthetized with dexmedetomidine plus low-dose isoflurane when compared with isoflurane. In the hippocampus, glymphatic clearance was sixfold more efficient during dexmedetomidine plus low-dose isoflurane anesthesia when compared with isoflurane. The respiratory and blood gas status was comparable in rats anesthetized with the two different anesthesia regimens. In the dexmedetomidine plus low-dose isoflurane rats, spindle oscillations (9 to 15 Hz) could be observed but not in isoflurane anesthetized rats.

CONCLUSIONS

We propose that anesthetics affect the glymphatic pathway transport not simply by inducing unconsciousness but also by additional mechanisms, one of which is the repression of norepinephrine release.

Perivascular spaces, glymphatic dysfunction, and small vessel disease

Cerebral small vessel diseases (SVDs) range broadly in etiology but share remarkably overlapping pathology. Features of SVD including enlarged perivascular spaces (EPVS) and formation of abluminal protein deposits cannot be completely explained by the putative pathophysiology. The recently discovered glymphatic system provides a new perspective to potentially address these gaps. This work provides a comprehensive review of the known factors that regulate glymphatic function and the disease mechanisms underlying glymphatic impairment emphasizing the role that aquaporin-4 (AQP4)-lined perivascular spaces (PVSs), cerebrovascular pulsatility, and metabolite clearance play in normal CNS physiology. This review also discusses the implications that glymphatic impairment may have on SVD inception and progression with the aim of exploring novel therapeutic targets and highlighting the key questions that remain to be answered.

Choroidal fissure acts as an overflow device in cerebrospinal fluid drainage: morphological comparison between idiopathic and secondary normal-pressure hydrocephalus

To clarify the pathogenesis of two different types of adult-onset normal-pressure hydrocephalus (NPH), we investigated cerebrospinal fluid distribution on the high-field three-dimensional MRI. The subarachnoid spaces in secondary NPH were smaller than those in the controls, whereas those in idiopathic NPH were of similar size to the controls. In idiopathic NPH, however, the basal cistern and Sylvian fissure were enlarged in concurrence with ventricular enlargement towards the z-direction, but the convexity subarachnoid space was severely diminished. In this article, we provide evidence that the key cause of the disproportionate cerebrospinal fluid distribution in idiopathic NPH is the compensatory direct CSF communication between the inferior horn of the lateral ventricles and the ambient cistern at the choroidal fissure. In contrast, all parts of the subarachnoid spaces were equally and severely decreased in secondary NPH. Blockage of CSF drainage from the subarachnoid spaces could cause the omnidirectional ventricular enlargement in secondary NPH.

Neuro-Ophthalmology of Space Flight

BACKGROUND

To describe the history, clinical findings, and possible pathogenic etiologies of the constellation of neuro-ophthalmic findings discovered in astronauts after long-duration space flight and to discuss the terrestrial implications of such findings.

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

Retrospective review of published observational, longitudinal examination of neuro-ophthalmic findings in astronauts after long-duration space flight; analysis of postflight questionnaires regarding in-flight vision changes in approximately 300 additional astronauts; and hypothesis generating for developing possible future countermeasures and potential implications for neuro-ophthalmic disorders on Earth. Astronauts with neuro-ophthalmic findings, which were not present at the start of a space flight mission and only seen on return from long-duration space missions to the International Space Station, will be discussed.

RESULTS

After 6 months of space flight, 7 astronauts had ophthalmic findings consisting of optic disc edema in 5, globe flattening in 5, choroidal folds in 5, cotton-wool spots in 3, nerve fiber layer thickening detected by optical coherence tomography in 6, and decreased near vision in 6. Five of 7 astronauts with near vision complaints had a hyperopic shift ≥+0.50 diopters (D) between pre-/post-mission spherical equivalent refraction in 1 or both eyes (range, +0.50 to +1.75 D). These 5 astronauts showed globe flattening on magnetic resonance imaging. A total of 6 lumbar punctures have been performed to date (4 in the originally described cohort) and documented opening pressures of 18, 22, 21, 21.5, 28, and 28.5 cm H2O. These were performed at 8, 66, 19, 7, 12, and 57 days after mission, respectively. The 300 postflight questionnaires documented that approximately 29% and 60% of astronauts on short-duration and long-duration missions, respectively, experienced a degradation in distant and near visual acuity. Some of these vision changes remain unresolved for years after flight. Several possible pathogenic mechanisms, as well as potential countermeasures and discussion of possible terrestrial implications, are described.

CONCLUSIONS

We previously hypothesized that the optic nerve and ocular changes that we described in astronauts may be the result of orbital and cranial cephalad fluid shifts brought about by prolonged microgravity exposure. The findings we reported previously and continue to see in astronauts may represent parts of a spectrum of ocular and cerebral responses to extended microgravity exposure. Future investigations hopefully will lead to countermeasures that can be used to eliminate or lessen the magnitude of these potentially harmful findings before long-duration space flight including the possibility of a manned mission to Mars.

Supratentorial extraventricular WHO grade III (anaplastic) ependymoma 17 years after total removal of WHO grade II ependymoma of the fourth ventricle

We report a WHO grade III ependymoma of the supratentorial interhemispheric fissure and grew to form a large mass with anaplastic transformation without local recurrence 17 years after the total removal of a fourth ventricular WHO grade II ependymoma. We emphasize the necessity of long-term follow-up, even in benign ependymomas.

Dynamic dual-isotope molecular imaging elucidates principles for optimizing intrathecal drug delivery

The intrathecal (IT) dosing route offers a seemingly obvious solution for delivering drugs directly to the central nervous system. However, gaps in understanding drug molecule behavior within the anatomically and kinetically unique environment of the mammalian IT space have impeded the establishment of pharmacokinetic principles for optimizing regional drug exposure along the neuraxis. Here, we have utilized high-resolution single-photon emission tomography with X-ray computed tomography to study the behavior of multiple molecular imaging tracers following an IT bolus injection, with supporting histology, autoradiography, block-face tomography, and MRI. Using simultaneous dual-isotope imaging, we demonstrate that the regional CNS tissue exposure of molecules with varying chemical properties is affected by IT space anatomy, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) dynamics, CSF clearance routes, and the location and volume of the injected bolus. These imaging approaches can be used across species to optimize the safety and efficacy of IT drug therapy for neurological disorders.

Revisiting the Mechanisms of CNS Immune Privilege

Whereas the study of the interactions between the immune system and the central nervous system (CNS) has often focused on pathological conditions, the importance of neuroimmune communication in CNS homeostasis and function has become clear over that last two decades. Here we discuss the progression of our understanding of the interaction between the peripheral immune system and the CNS. We examine the notion of immune privilege of the CNS in light of both earlier findings and recent studies revealing a functional meningeal lymphatic system that drains cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) to the deep cervical lymph nodes, and consider the implications of a revised perspective on the immune privilege of the CNS on the etiology and pathology of different neurological disorders.

Development and functions of the choroid plexus-cerebrospinal fluid system

The choroid plexus (ChP) is the principal source of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), which has accepted roles as a fluid cushion and a sink for nervous system waste in vertebrates. Various animal models have provided insights into how the ChP-CSF system develops and matures. In addition, recent studies have uncovered new, active roles for this dynamic system in the regulation of neural stem cells, critical periods and the overall health of the nervous system. Together, these findings have brought about a paradigm shift in our understanding of brain development and health, and have stimulated new initiatives for the treatment of neurological disease.

A balanced view of choroid plexus structure and function: Focus on adult humans

Recently tremendous progress has been made in studying choroid plexus (CP) physiology and pathophysiology; and correcting several misconceptions about the CP. Specifically, the details of how CP, a locus of the blood-CSF barrier (BCSFB), secretes and purifies CSF, generates intracranial pressure (ICP), maintains CSF ion homeostasis, and provides micronutrients, proteins and hormones for neuronal and glial development, maintenance and function, are being understood on a molecular level. Unequivocal evidence that the CP secretory epithelium is the predominant supplier of CSF for the ventricles comes from multiple lines: uptake kinetics of tracer (22)Na and (36)Cl penetration from blood to CSF, autoradiographic mapping of rapid (22)Na and (36)Cl permeation (high permeability coefficients) into the cerebroventricles, CSF sampling from several different in vivo and in vitro CP preparations, CP hyperplasia that increases CSF formation and ICP; and in vitro analysis of CP ability to transport molecules (with expected directionality) and actively secrete fluid against an hydrostatic fluid column. Furthermore, clinical support for this CP-CSF model comes from neurosurgical procedures to remove lateral ventricle CPs in hydrocephalic children to reduce CSF formation, thereby relieving elevated ICP. In terms of micronutrient transport, ascorbic acid, folate and other essential factors are transported by specific (cloned) carriers across CP into ventricular CSF, from which they penetrate across the ependyma and pia mater deeply into the brain to support its viability and function. Without these choroidal functions, severe neurological disease and even death can occur. In terms of efflux or clearance transport, the active carriers (many of which have been cloned and expressed) in the CP basolateral and apical membranes perform regulatory removal of some metabolites (e.g. choline) and certain drugs (e.g. antibiotics like penicillin) from CSF, thus reducing agents such as penicillin to sub-therapeutic levels. Altogether, these multiple transport and secretory functions in CP support CSF homeostasis and fluid dynamics essential for brain function.

Olfactory route for cerebrospinal fluid drainage into the cervical lymphatic system in a rabbit experimental model

The present study analyzed the anatomical association between intracranial subarachnoid space and the cervical lymphatic system. X-ray contrast medium and Microfil(®) (Microfil compounds fill and opacify microvascular and other spaces of non-surviving animals and post-mortem tissue under physiological injection pressure) were injected into the cisterna magna of the rabbit, and perineural routes of cerebrospinal fluid outflow into the lymphatic system were visualized. Under a surgical operating microscope, Microfil was found within the subarachnoid space and along the olfactory nerves. At the nasal mucosa, a lymphatic network was identified near the olfactory nerves, which crossed the nasopharyngeal region and finally emptied into the superficial and deep cervical lymph nodes. Under a light microscope, Microfil was visible around the olfactory nerves and within lymphatic vessels. These results suggested that cerebrospinal fluid drained from the subarachnoid space along the olfactory nerves to nasal lymphatic vessels, which in turn, emptied into the cervical lymph nodes. This anatomical route, therefore, allowed connection between the central nervous system and the lymphatic system.

Mechanisms of fluid movement into, through and out of the brain: evaluation of the evidence

Interstitial fluid (ISF) surrounds the parenchymal cells of the brain and spinal cord while cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) fills the larger spaces within and around the CNS. Regulation of the composition and volume of these fluids is important for effective functioning of brain cells and is achieved by barriers that prevent free exchange between CNS and blood and by mechanisms that secrete fluid of controlled composition into the brain and distribute and reabsorb it. Structures associated with this regular fluid turnover include the choroid plexuses, brain capillaries comprising the blood-brain barrier, arachnoid villi and perineural spaces penetrating the cribriform plate. ISF flow, estimated from rates of removal of markers from the brain, has been thought to reflect rates of fluid secretion across the blood-brain barrier, although this has been questioned because measurements were made under barbiturate anaesthesia possibly affecting secretion and flow and because CSF influx to the parenchyma via perivascular routes may deliver fluid independently of blood-brain barrier secretion. Fluid secretion at the blood-brain barrier is provided by specific transporters that generate solute fluxes so creating osmotic gradients that force water to follow. Any flow due to hydrostatic pressures driving water across the barrier soon ceases unless accompanied by solute transport because water movements modify solute concentrations. CSF is thought to be derived primarily from secretion by the choroid plexuses. Flow rates measured using phase contrast magnetic resonance imaging reveal CSF movements to be more rapid and variable than previously supposed, even implying that under some circumstances net flow through the cerebral aqueduct may be reversed with net flow into the third and lateral ventricles. Such reversed flow requires there to be alternative sites for both generation and removal of CSF. Fluorescent tracer analysis has shown that fluid flow can occur from CSF into parenchyma along periarterial spaces. Whether this represents net fluid flow and whether there is subsequent flow through the interstitium and net flow out of the cortex via perivenous routes, described as glymphatic circulation, remains to be established. Modern techniques have revealed complex fluid movements within the brain. This review provides a critical evaluation of the data.

Measurement of cerebrospinal fluid formation and absorption by ventriculo-cisternal perfusion: what is really measured?

The generally accepted hypothesis on cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) hydrodynamics suggests that CSF is actively formed mainly by the choroid plexuses, circulates unidirectionally along the brain ventricles and subarachnoid space, and is passively absorbed mainly into the dural venous sinuses. CSF formation rate (Vf) has been extensively studied using the ventriculo-cisternal perfusion technique and the results have been used as the key evidence confirming the mentioned hypothesis. This technique and the equation for Vf calculation are based on the assumption that the dilution of the indicator substance is a consequence of the newly formed CSF, ie, that a higher CSF formation rate will result in a higher degree of dilution. However, it has been experimentally shown that the indicator substance dilution inside the CSF system does not occur because of a "newly formed" CSF, but as consequence of a number of other factors (departure of substances into the surrounding tissue, flowing around the collecting cannula into the cortical and spinal subarachnoid space, departure into the contralateral ventricle, etc). This technique allows "calculation" of the CSF formation even in dead animals, in an in vitro model, and in any other part of the CSF system outside the ventricles that is being perfused. Therefore, this method is indirect and any dilution of the indicator substance in the perfusate caused by other reasons would result in questionable and often contradictory conclusions regarding CSF formation rates.

Cerebrospinal fluid physiology: visualization of cerebrospinal fluid dynamics using the magnetic resonance imaging Time-Spatial Inversion Pulse method

Previously there have been no methods for directly tracing the flow of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) under physiological conditions, and the circulation of CSF has therefore been studied and visualized by injecting a radioactively labeled tracer or contrast medium visible in x-ray images. The newly developed Time-Spatial Inversion Pulse (Time-SLIP) method makes it possible to directly visualize the flow of CSF using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), permitting CSF dynamics to be depicted in a certain time frame. The CSF dynamics visualized using Time-SLIP has been found to differ markedly from the classical CSF circulation theory described in medical textbooks. It can be said that research on CSF dynamics has advanced to the next stage with the use of this innovative imaging method. Obtaining a more accurate understanding of normal CSF physiology and pathophysiology should lead to improved diagnostic accuracy, permit the identification of new etiological factors in a variety of diseases, and promote the development of new therapeutic approaches.

Cerebrospinal fluid is drained primarily via the spinal canal and olfactory route in young and aged spontaneously hypertensive rats

BACKGROUND

Many aspects of CSF dynamics are poorly understood due to the difficulties involved in quantification and visualization. In particular, there is debate surrounding the route of CSF drainage. Our aim was to quantify CSF flow, volume, and drainage route dynamics in vivo in young and aged spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) using a novel contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) method.

METHODS

ICP was recorded in young (2-5 months) and aged (16 months) SHR. Contrast was administered into the lateral ventricles bilaterally and sequential CT imaging was used to visualize the entire intracranial CSF system and CSF drainage routes. A customized contrast decay software module was used to quantify CSF flow at multiple locations.

RESULTS

ICP was significantly higher in aged rats than in young rats (11.52 ± 2.36 mmHg, versus 7.04 ± 2.89 mmHg, p = 0.03). Contrast was observed throughout the entire intracranial CSF system and was seen to enter the spinal canal and cross the cribriform plate into the olfactory mucosa within 9.1 ± 6.1 and 22.2 ± 7.1 minutes, respectively. No contrast was observed adjacent to the sagittal sinus. There were no significant differences between young and aged rats in either contrast distribution times or CSF flow rates. Mean flow rates (combined young and aged) were 3.0 ± 1.5 μL/min at the cerebral aqueduct; 3.5 ± 1.4 μL/min at the 3rd ventricle; and 2.8 ± 0.9 μL/min at the 4th ventricle. Intracranial CSF volumes (and as percentage total brain volume) were 204 ± 97 μL (8.8 ± 4.3%) in the young and 275 ± 35 μL (10.8 ± 1.9%) in the aged animals (NS).

CONCLUSIONS

We have demonstrated a contrast-enhanced CT technique for measuring and visualising CSF dynamics in vivo. These results indicate substantial drainage of CSF via spinal and olfactory routes, but there was little evidence of drainage via sagittal sinus arachnoid granulations in either young or aged animals. The data suggests that spinal and olfactory routes are the primary routes of CSF drainage and that sagittal sinus arachnoid granulations play a minor role, even in aged rats with higher ICP.

The influence of body position on cerebrospinal fluid pressure gradient and movement in cats with normal and impaired craniospinal communication

Intracranial hypertension is a severe therapeutic problem, as there is insufficient knowledge about the physiology of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) pressure. In this paper a new CSF pressure regulation hypothesis is proposed. According to this hypothesis, the CSF pressure depends on the laws of fluid mechanics and on the anatomical characteristics inside the cranial and spinal space, and not, as is today generally believed, on CSF secretion, circulation and absorption. The volume and pressure changes in the newly developed CSF model, which by its anatomical dimensions and basic biophysical features imitates the craniospinal system in cats, are compared to those obtained on cats with and without the blockade of craniospinal communication in different body positions. During verticalization, a long-lasting occurrence of negative CSF pressure inside the cranium in animals with normal cranio-spinal communication was observed. CSF pressure gradients change depending on the body position, but those gradients do not enable unidirectional CSF circulation from the hypothetical site of secretion to the site of absorption in any of them. Thus, our results indicate the existence of new physiological/pathophysiological correlations between intracranial fluids, which opens up the possibility of new therapeutic approaches to intracranial hypertension.

Potential for intranasal drug delivery to alter cerebrospinal fluid outflow via the nasal turbinate lymphatics

Background

Cerebrospinal fluid absorption (CSF) at the cribriform plate is mediated by direct extracranial connections to the lymphatic system. Given the accessibility of these pharmacologically responsive vessels we hypothesized that the rate of CSF outflow can be modulated via the intranasal delivery of drugs known to affect lymphatic contractile activity.

Findings

Fluid was infused into the lateral ventricle of anesthetized sheep and inflow rate and CSF pressure measured during intranasal administration of pharmacological agents. CSF absorption was calculated at steady-state CSF pressures. The ability of a pharmacological agent to alter CSF absorption was related to the steady-state intracranial pressure (ICP), the concentration and the class of pharmacological agent delivered. An increase in drug concentration correlated with an increase in CSF absorption at high ICP (45 cm H₂O, r = 0.42, p = 0.0058). Specifically, the delivery of NG-monomethyl L-arginine (L-NMMA) significantly increased CSF absorption by 2.29 fold over no treatment (2.29 ± 0.34 mL/min), while the thromboxane A2 analogue U46619 resulted in a 2.44 fold increase in CSF absorption over no treatment (2.44 ± 0.55 mL/min). Saline delivery did not significantly increase CSF absorption (0.88 ± 0.097 mL/min). A trend of increased CSF absorption upon noradrenaline delivery was observed: however, this did not reach statistical significance. Increasing drug concentrations inversely correlated with CSF outflow resistance across all drug classes (r = -0.26, p = 0.046).

Conclusions

The administration of nebulized pharmacological agents intranasally has the potential to provide an alternate method to non-invasively modulate CSF absorption and outflow resistance.

Mechanisms of fluid movement into, through and out of the brain: evaluation of the evidence

Interstitial fluid (ISF) surrounds the parenchymal cells of the brain and spinal cord while cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) fills the larger spaces within and around the CNS. Regulation of the composition and volume of these fluids is important for effective functioning of brain cells and is achieved by barriers that prevent free exchange between CNS and blood and by mechanisms that secrete fluid of controlled composition into the brain and distribute and reabsorb it. Structures associated with this regular fluid turnover include the choroid plexuses, brain capillaries comprising the blood-brain barrier, arachnoid villi and perineural spaces penetrating the cribriform plate. ISF flow, estimated from rates of removal of markers from the brain, has been thought to reflect rates of fluid secretion across the blood-brain barrier, although this has been questioned because measurements were made under barbiturate anaesthesia possibly affecting secretion and flow and because CSF influx to the parenchyma via perivascular routes may deliver fluid independently of blood-brain barrier secretion. Fluid secretion at the blood-brain barrier is provided by specific transporters that generate solute fluxes so creating osmotic gradients that force water to follow. Any flow due to hydrostatic pressures driving water across the barrier soon ceases unless accompanied by solute transport because water movements modify solute concentrations. CSF is thought to be derived primarily from secretion by the choroid plexuses. Flow rates measured using phase contrast magnetic resonance imaging reveal CSF movements to be more rapid and variable than previously supposed, even implying that under some circumstances net flow through the cerebral aqueduct may be reversed with net flow into the third and lateral ventricles. Such reversed flow requires there to be alternative sites for both generation and removal of CSF. Fluorescent tracer analysis has shown that fluid flow can occur from CSF into parenchyma along periarterial spaces. Whether this represents net fluid flow and whether there is subsequent flow through the interstitium and net flow out of the cortex via perivenous routes, described as glymphatic circulation, remains to be established. Modern techniques have revealed complex fluid movements within the brain. This review provides a critical evaluation of the data.

"Compensated hyperosmolarity" of cerebrospinal fluid and the development of hydrocephalus

Acute osmolar loading of cerebrospinal fluid within one lateral ventricle of dogs was examined as a cause of water extraction from the bloodstream and an increase in intracranial pressure. We have shown that a certain amount of (3)H₂O from the bloodstream enters osmotically loaded cerebrospinal fluid significantly faster, hence causing a significant increase in intracranial pressure. The noted phenomenon in which intracranial pressure still significantly increases, but in which the hyperosmolarity of the cerebrospinal fluid is no longer present, was named "compensated hyperosmolarity". In the case of the sub-chronic application of hyperosmolar solutions into cat ventricles, we observed an increase in cerebrospinal fluid volume and a more pronounced development of hydrocephalus in the area of application, but without significant increase in intracranial pressure and without blockage of cerebrospinal fluid pathways. These results support the newly proposed hypothesis of cerebrospinal fluid hydrodynamics and the ability to develop new strategies for the treatment of cerebrospinal fluid-related diseases.

Intranasal administration of oxytocin: behavioral and clinical effects, a review

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The mechanisms behind the effects of IN-applied substances need more attention.

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The mechanisms involved in the brain-distribution of IN-OT are completely unexplored.

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The possibly cascading effects of IN-OT on the intrinsic OT-system require serious investigation.

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IN-OT induces clear and specific changes in neural activation.

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IN-OT is a promising approach to treat certain clinical symptoms.

The intranasal (IN-) administration of substances is attracting attention from scientists as well as pharmaceutical companies. The effects are surprisingly fast and specific. The present review explores our current knowledge about the routes of access to the cranial cavity. ‘Direct-access-pathways’ from the nasal cavity have been described but many additional experiments are needed to answer a variety of open questions regarding anatomy and physiology.

Among the IN-applied substances oxytocin (OT) has an extensive history. Originally applied in women for its physiological effects related to lactation and parturition, over the last decade most studies focused on their behavioral ‘prosocial’ effects: from social relations and ‘trust’ to treatment of ‘autism’.

Only very recently in a microdialysis study in rats and mice, the ‘direct-nose-brain-pathways’ of IN-OT have been investigated directly, implying that we are strongly dependent on results obtained from other IN-applied substances. Especially the possibility that IN-OT activates the ‘intrinsic’ OT-system in the hypothalamus as well needs further clarification.

We conclude that IN-OT administration may be a promising approach to influence human communication but that the existing lack of information about the neural and physiological mechanisms involved is a serious problem for the proper understanding and interpretation of the observed effects.

Reassessing cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) hydrodynamics: a literature review presenting a novel hypothesis for CSF physiology

The traditional model of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) hydrodynamics is being increasingly challenged in view of recent scientific evidences. The established model presumes that CSF is primarily produced in the choroid plexuses (CP), then flows from the ventricles to the subarachnoid spaces, and is mainly reabsorbed into arachnoid villi (AV). This model is seemingly based on faulty research and misinterpretations. This literature review presents numerous evidence for a new hypothesis of CSF physiology, namely, CSF is produced and reabsorbed throughout the entire CSF-Interstitial fluid (IF) functional unit. IF and CSF are mainly formed and reabsorbed across the walls of CNS blood capillaries. CP, AV and lymphatics become minor sites for CSF hydrodynamics. The lymphatics may play a more significant role in CSF absorption when CSF-IF pressure increases. The consequences of this complete reformulation of CSF hydrodynamics may influence applications in research, publications, including osteopathic manual treatments.

Regional registration of [6-(14)C]glucose metabolism during brain activation of α-syntrophin knockout mice

α-Syntrophin is a component of the dystrophin scaffold-protein complex that serves as an adaptor for recruitment of key proteins to the cytoplasmic side of plasma membranes. α-Syntrophin knockout (KO) causes loss of the polarized localization of aquaporin4 (AQP4) at astrocytic endfeet and interferes with water and K(+) homeostasis. During brain activation, release of ions and metabolites from endfeet is anticipated to increase perivascular fluid osmolarity, AQP4-mediated osmotic water flow from endfeet, and metabolite washout from brain. This study tests the hypothesis that reduced levels of endfoot AQP4 increase retention of [(14)C]metabolites during sensory stimulation. Conscious KO and wild-type mice were pulse-labeled with [6-(14)C] glucose during unilateral acoustic stimulation or bilateral acoustic plus whisker stimulation, and label retention was assayed by computer-assisted brain imaging or analysis of [(14)C]metabolites in extracts, respectively. High-resolution autoradiographic assays detected a 17% side-to-side difference (p < 0.05) in inferior colliculus of KO mice, not wild-type mice. However, there were no labeling differences between KO and wild-type mice for five major HPLC fractions from four dissected regions, presumably because of insufficient anatomical resolution. The results suggest a role for AQP4-mediated water flow in support of washout of metabolites, and underscore the need for greater understanding of astrocytic water and metabolite fluxes.

Comparison of the global gene expression of choroid plexus and meninges and associated vasculature under control conditions and after pronounced hyperthermia or amphetamine toxicity

BACKGROUND

The meninges (arachnoid and pial membranes) and associated vasculature (MAV) and choroid plexus are important in maintaining cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) generation and flow. MAV vasculature was previously observed to be adversely affected by environmentally-induced hyperthermia (EIH) and more so by a neurotoxic amphetamine (AMPH) exposure. Herein, microarray and RT-PCR analysis was used to compare the gene expression profiles between choroid plexus and MAV under control conditions and at 3 hours and 1 day after EIH or AMPH exposure. Since AMPH and EIH are so disruptive to vasculature, genes related to vasculature integrity and function were of interest.

RESULTS

Our data shows that, under control conditions, many of the genes with relatively high expression in both the MAV and choroid plexus are also abundant in many epithelial tissues. These genes function in transport of water, ions, and solutes, and likely play a role in CSF regulation. Most genes that help form the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and tight junctions were also highly expressed in MAV but not in choroid plexus. In MAV, exposure to EIH and more so to AMPH decreased the expression of BBB-related genes such as Sox18, Ocln, and Cldn5, but they were much less affected in the choroid plexus. There was a correlation between the genes related to reactive oxidative stress and damage that were significantly altered in the MAV and choroid plexus after either EIH or AMPH. However, AMPH (at 3 hr) significantly affected about 5 times as many genes as EIH in the MAV, while in the choroid plexus EIH affected more genes than AMPH. Several unique genes that are not specifically related to vascular damage increased to a much greater extent after AMPH compared to EIH in the MAV (Lbp, Reg3a, Reg3b, Slc15a1, Sct and Fst) and choroid plexus (Bmp4, Dio2 and Lbp).

CONCLUSIONS

Our study indicates that the disruption of choroid plexus function and damage produced by AMPH and EIH is significant, but the changes may not be as pronounced as they are in the MAV, particularly for AMPH. Expression profiles in the MAV and choroid plexus differed to some extent and differences were not restricted to vascular related genes.

Mesenteric neovascularization with distraction-induced intestinal growth: enterogenesis

BACKGROUND

Distraction-induced enterogenesis, whereby the intestine lengthens with application of linear forces, is an emerging area which may provide a unique treatment for short bowel syndrome. With an increase in overall tissue mass, there is an increase in oxygen and nutrient demand. We hypothesized that a neovascularization within the mesentery is necessary to support the growing small bowel.

METHODS

A curvilinear hydraulic device was used to induce growth within the small bowel of Yorkshire pigs, and the intestine was harvested after 14 days. High-resolution gross pictures were recorded of the mesentery at implantation and at harvest, and CT imaging of the bowel and mesentery was performed at harvest after dye injection.

RESULTS

After 2 weeks of distraction, an average of 72.5 % (8.7 cm) bowel lengthening was achieved. Gross images of the mesentery between major vessels showed a blossoming of the microvasculature and this was confirmed by CT imaging with 3D reconstruction. Mesenteric sample taken from the distracted segment had a fourfold increase in the volume of microvasculature versus controls.

CONCLUSION

Enterogenesis results not only in increased bowel length, but also significant increase in the mesenteric microvascularity. Presumably, this sustains the lengthened segment after application of longitudinal forces.

A visual description of the dissection of the cerebral surface vasculature and associated meninges and the choroid plexus from rat brain

This video presentation was created to show a method of harvesting the two most important highly vascular structures, not residing within the brain proper, that support forebrain function. They are the cerebral surface (superficial) vasculature along with associated meninges (MAV) and the choroid plexus which are necessary for cerebral blood flow and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) homeostasis. The tissue harvested is suitable for biochemical and physiological analysis, and the MAV has been shown to be sensitive to damage produced by amphetamine and hyperthermia. As well, the major and minor cerebral vasculatures harvested in MAV are of potentially high interest when investigating concussive types of head trauma. The MAV dissected in this presentation consists of the pial and some of the arachnoid membrane (less dura) of the meninges and the major and minor cerebral surface vasculature. The choroid plexus dissected is the structure that resides in the lateral ventricles as described by Oldfield and McKinley. The methods used for harvesting these two tissues also facilitate the harvesting of regional cortical tissue devoid of meninges and larger cerebral surface vasculature, and is compatible with harvesting other brain tissues such as striatum, hypothalamus, hippocampus, etc. The dissection of the two tissues takes from 5 to 10 min total. The gene expression levels for the dissected MAV and choroid plexus, as shown and described in this presentation can be found at GSE23093 (MAV) and GSE29733 (choroid plexus) at the NCBI GEO repository. This data has been, and is being, used to help further understand the functioning of the MAV and choroid plexus and how neurotoxic events such as severe hyperthermia and AMPH adversely affect their function.

Transseptumpellucidumrostrostomy: anatomical considerations and neuroendoscopic approach

PURPOSE

Verify the presence of the rostral lamina of the corpus callosum, and set parameters for neuroendoscopy.

METHODS

Relationship of the floor of the frontal horn of lateral ventricle and the hypothalamic-septal region were studied after sagittal and axial sections of the brains. Measurements were compared using F and Student t tests. The correlations between anterior-posterior diameter of the interventricular foramen / anterior-posterior diameter of the fornix column, and between anterior-posterior diameter of the interventricular foramen / length of the rostral lamina were performed by Pearson index test.

RESULTS

There was no statistically significant difference in measurements performed in both hemispheres (p<0.05). Positive correlations were observed between the anterior-posterior diameter of the interventricular foramen / anterior-posterior diameter of the fornix column (R = 0.35), and between the anterior-posterior diameter of the interventricular foramen / length of the rostral lamina (R = 0.23).

CONCLUSION

Rostral lamina was observed in all brains. It was possible to perform an endoscopic fenestration in the rostral lamina, communicating safely the lateral ventricle with a polygonal subcallosal cistern.