Expression and Developmental Regulation of a GABAA Receptor in Cultured Murine Cells of the Oligodendrocyte Lineage

Oligodendroglial GABAergic Signaling: More Than Inhibition!

GABA is the main inhibitory neurotransmitter in the CNS acting at two distinct types of receptor: ligand-gated ionotropic GABA_A receptors and G protein-coupled metabotropic GABA_B receptors, thus mediating fast and slow inhibition of excitability at central synapses. GABAergic signal transmission has been intensively studied in neurons in contrast to oligodendrocytes and their precursors (OPCs), although the latter express both types of GABA receptor. Recent studies focusing on interneuron myelination and interneuron-OPC synapses have shed light on the importance of GABA signaling in the oligodendrocyte lineage. In this review, we start with a short summary on GABA itself and neuronal GABAergic signaling. Then, we elaborate on the physiological role of GABA receptors within the oligodendrocyte lineage and conclude with a description of these receptors as putative targets in treatments of CNS diseases.

Therapeutic Potential of GABAergic Signaling in Myelin Plasticity and Repair

Oligodendrocytes (OLs) produce myelin to insulate axons. This accelerates action potential propagation, allowing nerve impulse information to synchronize within complex neuronal ensembles and promoting brain connectivity. Brain plasticity includes myelination, a process that starts early after birth and continues throughout life. Myelin repair, followed by injury or disease, requires new OLs differentiated from a population derived from oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs) that continue to proliferate, migrate and differentiate to preserve and remodel myelin in the adult central nervous system. OPCs represent the largest proliferative neural cell population outside the adult neurogenic niches in the brain. OPCs receive synaptic inputs from glutamatergic and GABAergic neurons throughout neurodevelopment, a unique feature among glial cells. Neuron-glia communication through GABA signaling in OPCs has been shown to play a role in myelin plasticity and repair. In this review we will focus on the molecular and functional properties of GABA_A receptors (GABA_ARs) expressed by OPCs and their potential role in remyelination.

GABAA Receptors Expressed in Oligodendrocytes Cultured from the Neonatal Rat Contain α3 and γ1 Subunits and Present Differential Functional and Pharmacological Properties

Oligodendrocytes (OLs) express functional GABA_A receptors (GABA_ARs) that are activated by GABA released at synaptic contacts with axons or by ambient GABA in extrasynaptic domains. In both instances, the receptors' molecular identity has not been fully defined. Furthermore, data on their structural diversity in different brain regions and information on age-dependent changes in their molecular composition are scant. This lack of knowledge has delayed access to a better understanding of the role of GABAergic signaling between neurons and OLs. Here, we used functional, and pharmacological analyses, as well as gene and protein expression of GABA_AR subunits, to explore the subunit combination that could explain the receptor functional profile expressed in OLs from the neonate rat. We found that GABA_AR composed of α3β2γ1 subunits mimicked the characteristics of the endogenous receptor when expressed heterologously in Xenopus laevis oocytes. Either α3 or γ1 subunit silencing by small interfering RNA transfection changed the GABA-response characteristics in oligodendrocyte precursor cells, indicating their participation in the endogenous receptor conformation. Thus, α3 subunit silencing shifted the mean EC₅₀ for GABA from 75.1 to 46.6 µM, whereas γ1 silencing reduced the current amplitude response by 55%. We also observed that β-carbolines differentially enhance GABA responses in oligodendroglia as compared with those in neurons. These results contribute to defining the molecular and pharmacological properties of GABA_ARs in OLs. Additionally, the identification of β-carbolines as selective enhancers of GABA_ARs in OLs may help to study the role of GABAergic signaling during myelination. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: GABAergic signaling through GABA_A receptors (GABA_ARs) expressed in the oligodendroglial lineage contributes to the myelination control. Determining the molecular identity and the pharmacology of these receptors is essential to define their specific roles in myelination. Using GABA_AR subunit expression and silencing, we identified that the GABA_AR subunit combination α3β2γ1 conforms the bulk of GABA_ARs in oligodendrocytes from rat neonates. Furthermore, we found that these receptors have differential pharmacological properties that allow specific positive modulation by β-carbolines.

Expression and Function of GABA Receptors in Myelinating Cells

Myelin facilitates the fast transmission of nerve impulses and provides metabolic support to axons. Differentiation of oligodendrocyte progenitor cells (OPCs) and Schwann cell (SC) precursors is critical for myelination during development and myelin repair in demyelinating disorders. Myelination is tightly controlled by neuron-glia communication and requires the participation of a wide repertoire of signals, including neurotransmitters such as glutamate, ATP, adenosine, or γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA). GABA is the main inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system (CNS) and it is also present in the peripheral nervous system (PNS). The composition and function of GABA receptors (GABARs) are well studied in neurons, while their nature and role in glial cells are still incipient. Recent studies demonstrate that GABA-mediated signaling mechanisms play relevant roles in OPC and SC precursor development and function, and stand out the implication of GABARs in oligodendrocyte (OL) and SC maturation and myelination. In this review, we highlight the evidence supporting the novel role of GABA with an emphasis on the molecular identity of the receptors expressed in these glial cells and the possible signaling pathways involved in their actions. GABAergic signaling in myelinating cells may have potential implications for developing novel reparative therapies in demyelinating diseases.

Differential Modulators of NG2-Glia Differentiation into Neurons and Glia and Their Crosstalk

As the fifth main cell population in the brain, NG2-glia are also known as oligodendrocyte precursor cells. NG2-glia express receptors and ion channels for fast modulation of neuronal activities and signaling with neuronal synapses, which are of functional significance in both physiological and pathological states. NG2-glia also participate in fast signaling with peripheral neurons via direct synaptic contacts in the brain. These distinctive glia have the unique capability of proliferating and differentiating into oligodendrocytes, which are critical for axonal myelination in the early developing brain. In neurodegenerative diseases, NG2-glia play an important role and undergo morphological modification, adapt the expression of their membrane receptors and ion channels, and display gene-modulated cell reprogramming and excitotoxicity-caused cell death. These modifications directly and indirectly influence populations of neurons and other glial cells. NG2-glia regulate their action and dynamics in response to neuronal behavior and disease, indicating a critical function to preserve and remodel myelin in physiological states and to repair it in pathological states. Here, we review in detail the differential modulators of NG2-glia into neurons and astrocytes, as well as interactions of NG2-glia with neurons, astrocytes, and microglia. We will also summarize a future potential exploitation of NG2-glia.

GABAA Receptors are Selectively Expressed in NG2 Glia of the Cerebellar White Matter

The cerebellum is involved in the coordination of movement. Its cellular composition is dominated by GABAergic neuronal types, and glial cells are known to express functional receptors. GABAergic signaling regulates cell proliferation, differentiation, and migration during neurodevelopment. However, little is known about the functional expression of GABA receptors in the cerebellar white matter (WM). Thus, the aim of this study was to test whether glial cells express functional GABA receptors during postnatal development (P7-P9) of cerebellar WM. Immunofluorescence showed that half of the astrocytes express GAD67, suggesting that glial cells synthesize GABA. Calcium imaging in cerebellar slices revealed that GABA and the GABA_A agonist muscimol evoked calcium transients in sulforhodamine B negative cells, whereas the GABA_B agonist baclofen failed to evoke responses in cerebellar WM. Whole-cell patch-clamp recordings of GFAP⁺ cells showed dye coupling and a passive current-voltage relation typical of astrocytes. Surprisingly, these cells did not respond to muscimol. Two additional populations were identified as GFAP^- cells. The first population showed dye coupling, slow decaying inward and outward currents with no voltage dependence, and did not respond to GABA_A agonists. The second population showed an outward-rectifying current-voltage relationship and responded to muscimol, but dye coupling was absent. These cells received synaptic input and were NG2⁺, but evoked calcium waves failed to modulate the frequency of spontaneous postsynaptic currents (sPSCs) or signaling into NG2 glia. We conclude that GABA_A receptor-mediated signaling is selective for NG2 glia in the WM of the cerebellum.

Calcium Signaling in the Oligodendrocyte Lineage: Regulators and Consequences

Cells of the oligodendrocyte lineage express a wide range of Ca²⁺ channels and receptors that regulate oligodendrocyte progenitor cell (OPC) and oligodendrocyte formation and function. Here we define those key channels and receptors that regulate Ca²⁺ signaling and OPC development and myelination. We then discuss how the regulation of intracellular Ca²⁺ in turn affects OPC and oligodendrocyte biology in the healthy nervous system and under pathological conditions. Activation of Ca²⁺ channels and receptors in OPCs and oligodendrocytes by neurotransmitters converges on regulating intracellular Ca²⁺, making Ca²⁺ signaling a central candidate mediator of activity-driven myelination. Indeed, recent evidence indicates that localized changes in Ca²⁺ in oligodendrocytes can regulate the formation and remodeling of myelin sheaths and perhaps additional functions of oligodendrocytes and OPCs. Thus, decoding how OPCs and myelinating oligodendrocytes integrate and process Ca²⁺ signals will be important to fully understand central nervous system formation, health, and function.

Oligodendrocyte Differentiation and Myelination Is Potentiated via GABAB Receptor Activation

Differentiation of oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs) into mature oligodendrocytes (OLs) is a key event for axonal myelination in the central nervous system (CNS). Several growth factors and neurotransmitters like GABA are postulated as important regulators of that process, and different protein kinases may also participate in OL differentiation and myelination. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying the regulation of myelination by neurotransmitters are only partially known. In the present study, we provide evidence showing that GABA receptors (GABARs) play an important role in OL differentiation. First, we observed that OPCs and OLs synthesize GABA and expressed GABAR and transporters, both in vitro and in vivo and, in contrast to GABA_ARs, the subunits GABA_B1R and GABA_B2R are expressed in OLs over time. Then, we found that exogenous GABA increases the number of myelin segments and MBP expression in DRG-OPC cocultures, indicating that GABA regulates myelination when OLs are in contact with axons. Notably, in purified rat OPC cultures, chronic treatment with GABA and baclofen, specific GABA_BR agonist, accelerates OPC differentiation by enhancing the processes branching and myelin protein expression, effects that are reverted in presence of GABA_BR specific antagonist CGP55845. Exposure of OPCs to baclofen promotes the Src-phosphorylation, and the baclofen-induced maturation is attenuated in presence of the Src-family kinases inhibitor PP2. None of these effects are mediated by the GABA_AR agonist muscimol. Together, these results highlight the relevance of the GABAergic system in OL differentiation, and indicate that this functional role is mediated through GABA_BR involving the participation of Src-family kinases. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Honoring Ricardo Miledi - outstanding neuroscientist of XX-XXI centuries.

Ganaxolone enhances microglial clearance activity and promotes remyelination in focal demyelination in the corpus callosum of ovariectomized rats

Aim

Experimental studies have shown that the progesterone metabolite, allopregnanolone, is endowed with promyelinating effects. The mechanisms underlying these promyelinating effects are not well understood. Therefore, we explored the impact of allopregnanolone's synthetic analogue, ganaxolone, on remyelination and microglial activation following focal demyelination in the corpus callosum of ovariectomized rats.

Methods

Ovariectomized adult Sprague Dawley rats received a stereotaxic injection of 2 µL of 1% lysolecithin solution in the corpus callosum followed by daily injections of either ganaxolone (intraperitoneal injection [i.p.], 2.5 mg/kg) or vehicle. The demyelination lesion was assessed 3 and 7 days postdemyelination insult using Luxol fast blue staining and transmission electron microscopy. The expression levels of myelin proteins (MBP, MAG, MOG, CNPase) were explored using Western blot. The inflammatory response and clearance of damaged myelin were evaluated using immunofluorescent staining (Iba1, dMBP, GFAP) and multiplex enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (IL‐1β, TNF‐α, IL‐4, IL‐10, IL‐6).

Results

Systemic administration of ganaxolone promoted remyelination of lysolecithin‐induced demyelination, upregulated the expression of major myelin proteins, and enhanced microglial clearance of damaged myelin. Astrocytosis, as well as locally produced pro‐ and antiinflammatory cytokines, was not affected by ganaxolone treatment.

Conclusion

Ganaxolone promotes remyelination in response to focal demyelination of the corpus callosum of ovariectomized rats. This effect is, at least in part, mediated by enhancing microglial clearance of myelin debris, which creates a conducive environment for a successful remyelination process.

Glutamate versus GABA in neuron-oligodendroglia communication

In the central nervous system (CNS), myelin sheaths around axons are formed by glial cells named oligodendrocytes (OLs). In turn, OLs are generated by oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs) during postnatal development and in adults, according to a process that depends on the proliferation and differentiation of these progenitors. The maturation of OL lineage cells as well as myelination by OLs are complex and highly regulated processes in the CNS. OPCs and OLs express an array of receptors for neurotransmitters, in particular for the two main CNS neurotransmitters glutamate and GABA, and are therefore endowed with the capacity to respond to neuronal activity. Initial studies in cell cultures demonstrated that both glutamate and GABA signaling mechanisms play important roles in OL lineage cell development and function. However, much remains to be learned about the communication of glutamatergic and GABAergic neurons with oligodendroglia in vivo. This review focuses on recent major advances in our understanding of the neuron-oligodendroglia communication mediated by glutamate and GABA in the CNS, and highlights the present controversies in the field. We discuss the expression, activation modes and potential roles of synaptic and extrasynaptic receptors along OL lineage progression. We review the properties of OPC synaptic connectivity with presynaptic glutamatergic and GABAergic neurons in the brain and consider the implication of glutamate and GABA signaling in activity-driven adaptive myelination.

Chronic diazepam administration increases the expression of Lcn2 in the CNS

Benzodiazepines (BZDs), which bind with high affinity to gamma-aminobutyric acid type A receptors (GABA_A-Rs) and potentiate the effects of GABA, are widely prescribed for anxiety, insomnia, epileptic discharge, and as anticonvulsants. The long-term use of BZDs is limited due to adverse effects such as tolerance, dependence, withdrawal effects, and impairments in cognition and learning. Additionally, clinical reports have shown that chronic BZD treatment increases the risk of Alzheimer's disease. Unusual GABA_A-R subunit expression and GABA_A-R phosphorylation are induced by chronic BZD use. However, the gene expression and signaling pathways related to these effects are not completely understood. In this study, we performed a microarray analysis to investigate the mechanisms underlying the effect of chronic BZD administration on gene expression. Diazepam (DZP, a BZD) was chronically administered, and whole transcripts in the brain were analyzed. We found that the mRNA expression levels were significantly affected by chronic DZP administration and that lipocalin 2 (Lcn2) mRNA was the most upregulated gene in the cerebral cortex, hippocampus, and amygdala. Lcn2 is known as an iron homeostasis-associated protein. Immunostained signals of Lcn2 were detected in neuron, astrocyte, microglia, and Lcn2 protein expression levels were consistently upregulated. This upregulation was observed without proinflammatory genes upregulation, and was attenuated by chronic treatment of deferoxamine mesylate (DFO), iron chelator. Our results suggest that chronic DZP administration regulates transcription and upregulates Lcn2 expression levels without an inflammatory response in the mouse brain. Furthermore, the DZP-induced upregulation of Lcn2 expression was influenced by ambient iron.

GAT-1 mediated GABA uptake in rat oligodendrocytes

Stimulated by the results of a recent paper on the effects of tiagabine, a selective inhibitor of the main GABA transporter GAT-1, on oligodendrogenesis, we verified the possibility that GAT-1 may be expressed in oligodendrocytes using immunocytochemical methods and functional assays. Light microscopic analysis of the subcortical white matter of all animals revealed the presence of numerous GAT-1+ cells of different size (from 3 to 29 µm) and morphology. An electron microscope analysis revealed that, besides fibrous astrocytes and interstitial neurons, GAT-1 immunoreactivity was present in immature and mature oligodendrocytes. Co-localization studies between GAT-1 and markers specific for oligodendrocytes (NG2 and RIP) showed that about 12% of GAT-1 positive cells in the white matter were immature oligodendrocytes, while about 15% were mature oligodendrocytes. In vitro functional assays showed that oligodendrocytes exhibit tiagabine-sensitive Na⁺ -dependent GABA uptake. Although relationships between GABA and oligodendrocytes have been known for many years, this is the first demonstration that GAT-1 is expressed in oligodendrocytes. The present results on the one hand definitely closes the era of "neuronal" and "glial" GABA transporters, on the other they suggest that oligodendrocytes may contribute to pathophysiology of the several diseases in which GAT-1 have been implicated to date. GLIA 2017;65:514-522.

NG2-glia, More Than Progenitor Cells

NG2-glia are a mysterious and ubiquitous glial population with a highly branched morphology. Initial studies suggested that their unique function is the generation and maintenance of oligodendrocytes in the central nervous system (CNS), important for proper myelination and therefore for axonal support and fast conduction velocity. Over the last years this simplistic notion has been dramatically changed: the wide and homogeneous distribution of NG2-glia within all areas of the developing CNS that is maintained during the whole lifespan, their potential to also differentiate into other cell types in a spatiotemporal manner, their active capability of maintaining their population and their dynamic behavior in altered conditions have raised the question: are NG2-glia simple progenitor cells or do they play further major roles in the normal function of the CNS? In this chapter, we will discuss some important features of NG2-glia like their homeostatic distribution in the CNS and their potential to differentiate into diverse cell types. Additionally, we will give some further insights into the properties that these cells have, like the ability to form synapses with neurons and their plastic behavior triggered by neuronal activity, suggesting that they may play a role specifically in myelin and more generally in brain plasticity. Finally, we will briefly review their behavior in disease models suggesting that their function is extended to repair the brain after insult.

Axon-to-Glia Interaction Regulates GABAA Receptor Expression in Oligodendrocytes

Myelination requires oligodendrocyte-neuron communication, and both neurotransmitters and contact interactions are essential for this process. Oligodendrocytes are endowed with neurotransmitter receptors whose expression levels and properties may change during myelination. However, only scant information is available about the extent and timing of these changes or how they are regulated by oligodendrocyte-neuron interactions. Here, we used electrophysiology to study the expression of ionotropic GABA, glutamate, and ATP receptors in oligodendrocytes derived from the optic nerve and forebrain cultured either alone or in the presence of dorsal root ganglion neurons. We observed that oligodendrocytes from both regions responded to these transmitters at 1 day in culture. After the first day in culture, however, GABA sensitivity diminished drastically to less than 10%, while that of glutamate and ATP remained constant. In contrast, the GABA response amplitude was sustained and remained stable in oligodendrocytes cocultured with dorsal root ganglion neurons. Immunochemistry and pharmacological properties of the responses indicated that they were mediated by distinctive GABAA receptors and that in coculture with neurons, the oligodendrocytes bearing the receptors were those in direct contact with axons. These results reveal that GABAA receptor regulation in oligodendrocytes is driven by axonal cues and that GABA signaling may play a role in myelination and/or during axon-glia recognition.

Electrophysiological properties of NG2(+) cells: Matching physiological studies with gene expression profiles

NG2(+) glial cells are a dynamic population of non-neuronal cells that give rise to myelinating oligodendrocytes in the central nervous system. These cells express numerous ion channels and neurotransmitter receptors, which endow them with a complex electrophysiological profile that is unique among glial cells. Despite extensive analysis of the electrophysiological properties of these cells, relatively little was known about the molecular identity of the channels and receptors that they express. The generation of new RNA-Seq datasets for NG2(+) cells has provided the means to explore how distinct genes contribute to the physiological properties of these progenitors. In this review, we systematically compare the results obtained through RNA-Seq transcriptional analysis of purified NG2(+) cells to previous physiological and molecular studies of these cells to define the complement of ion channels and neurotransmitter receptors expressed by NG2(+) cells in the mammalian brain and discuss the potential significance of the unique physiological properties of these cells. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled SI:NG2-glia(Invited only).

Neuroglial Transmission

Neuroglia, the "glue" that fills the space between neurons in the central nervous system, takes active part in nerve cell signaling. Neuroglial cells, astroglia, oligodendroglia, and microglia, are together about as numerous as neurons in the brain as a whole, and in the cerebral cortex grey matter, but the proportion varies widely among brain regions. Glial volume, however, is less than one-fifth of the tissue volume in grey matter. When stimulated by neurons or other cells, neuroglial cells release gliotransmitters by exocytosis, similar to neurotransmitter release from nerve endings, or by carrier-mediated transport or channel flux through the plasma membrane. Gliotransmitters include the common neurotransmitters glutamate and GABA, the nonstandard amino acid d-serine, the high-energy phosphate ATP, and l-lactate. The latter molecule is a "buffer" between glycolytic and oxidative metabolism as well as a signaling substance recently shown to act on specific lactate receptors in the brain. Complementing neurotransmission at a synapse, neuroglial transmission often implies diffusion of the transmitter over a longer distance and concurs with the concept of volume transmission. Transmission from glia modulates synaptic neurotransmission based on energetic and other local conditions in a volume of tissue surrounding the individual synapse. Neuroglial transmission appears to contribute significantly to brain functions such as memory, as well as to prevalent neuropathologies.

Synaptic integration by NG2 cells

NG2 expressing oligodendrocyte precursor cells stand out from other types of glial cells by receiving classical synaptic contacts from many neurons. This unconventional form of signaling between neurons and glial cells enables NG2 cells to receive information about the activity of presynaptic neurons with high temporal and spatial precision and has been postulated to be involved in activity-dependent myelination. While this still unproven concept is generally compelling, how NG2 cells may integrate synaptic input has hardly been addressed to date. Here we review the biophysical characteristics of synaptic currents and membrane properties of NG2 cells and discuss their capabilities to perform complex temporal and spatial signal integration and how this may be important for activity-dependent myelination.

Postnatal down-regulation of the GABAA receptor γ2 subunit in neocortical NG2 cells accompanies synaptic-to-extrasynaptic switch in the GABAergic transmission mode

NG2 cells, a main pool of glial progenitors, express γ-aminobutyric acid A (GABA(A)) receptors (GABA(A)Rs), the functional and molecular properties of which are largely unknown. We recently reported that transmission between GABAergic interneurons and NG2 cells drastically changes during development of the somatosensory cortex, switching from synaptic to extrasynaptic communication. Since synaptic and extrasynaptic GABA(A)Rs of neurons differ in their subunit composition, we hypothesize that GABA(A)Rs of NG2 cells undergo molecular changes during cortical development accompanying the switch of transmission modes. Single-cell RT-PCR and the effects of zolpidem and α5IA on evoked GABAergic currents reveal the predominance of functional α1- and α5-containing GABA(A)Rs at interneuron-NG2 cell synapses in the second postnatal week, while the α5 expression declines later in development when responses are exclusively extrasynaptic. Importantly, pharmacological and molecular analyses demonstrate that γ2, a subunit contributing to the clustering of GABA(A)Rs at postsynaptic sites in neurons, is down-regulated in NG2 cells in a cell type-specific manner in concomitance with the decline of synaptic activity and the switch of transmission mode. In keeping with the synaptic nature of γ2 in neurons, the down-regulation of this subunit is an important molecular hallmark of the change of transmission modes between interneurons and NG2 cells during development.

Down-regulation of GABA(A) receptor via promiscuity with the vasoactive peptide urotensin II receptor. Potential involvement in astrocyte plasticity

GABA_A receptor (GABA_AR) expression level is inversely correlated with the proliferation rate of astrocytes after stroke or during malignancy of astrocytoma, leading to the hypothesis that GABA_AR expression/activation may work as a cell proliferation repressor. A number of vasoactive peptides exhibit the potential to modulate astrocyte proliferation, and the question whether these mechanisms may imply alteration in GABA_AR-mediated functions and/or plasma membrane densities is open. The peptide urotensin II (UII) activates a G protein-coupled receptor named UT, and mediates potent vasoconstriction or vasodilation in mammalian vasculature. We have previously demonstrated that UII activates a PLC/PIPs/Ca²⁺ transduction pathway, via both G_q and G_i/o proteins and stimulates astrocyte proliferation in culture. It was also shown that UT/G_q/IP₃ coupling is regulated by the GABA_AR in rat cultured astrocytes. Here we report that UT and GABA_AR are co-expressed in cerebellar glial cells from rat brain slices, in human native astrocytes and in glioma cell line, and that UII inhibited the GABAergic activity in rat cultured astrocytes. In CHO cell line co-expressing human UT and combinations of GABA_AR subunits, UII markedly depressed the GABA current (β₃γ₂>α₂β₃γ₂>α₂β₁γ₂). This effect, characterized by a fast short-term inhibition followed by drastic and irreversible run-down, is not relayed by G proteins. The run-down partially involves Ca²⁺ and phosphorylation processes, requires dynamin, and results from GABA_AR internalization. Thus, activation of the vasoactive G protein-coupled receptor UT triggers functional inhibition and endocytosis of GABA_AR in CHO and human astrocytes, via its receptor C-terminus. This UII-induced disappearance of the repressor activity of GABA_AR, may play a key role in the initiation of astrocyte proliferation.

GABA Not Only a Neurotransmitter: Osmotic Regulation by GABA(A)R Signaling

Mature macroglia and almost all neural progenitor types express γ-aminobutyric (GABA) A receptors (GABA_ARs), whose activation by ambient or synaptic GABA, leads to influx or efflux of chloride (Cl⁻) depending on its electro-chemical gradient (E_Cl). Since the flux of Cl⁻ is indissolubly associated to that of osmotically obliged water, GABA_ARs regulate water movements by modulating ion gradients. In addition, since water movements also occur through specialized water channels and transporters, GABA_AR signaling could affect the movement of water by regulating the function of the channels and transporters involved, thereby affecting not only the direction of the water fluxes but also their dynamics. We will here review recent observations indicating that in neural cells GABA_AR-mediated osmotic regulation affects the cellular volume thereby activating multiple intracellular signaling mechanisms important for cell proliferation, maturation, and survival. In addition, we will discuss evidence that the osmotic regulation exerted by GABA may contribute to brain water homeostasis in physiological and in pathological conditions causing brain edema, in which the GABAergic transmission is often altered.

Central Role of GABA in Neuron–Glia Interactions

The major types of glial cells—astrocytes, microglia, and cells of the oligodendroglial lineage—are known to express functional metabotropic and ionotropic GABA receptors. Neuronal signaling mechanisms allowing for the activation of these receptors in glia are probably as complex as those described among neurons and involve synaptic and extrasynaptic transmission modes. In addition, astrocytes can signal back to neurons by releasing GABA, probably through unconventional nonvesicular mechanisms. The decryption of the roles played by GABAergic signaling in neuron–glia interactions is only beginning, but it has been suggested that activation of glial cells by GABA influences important functions of the brain such as neuronal activity, differentiation, myelination, and neuroprotection. This review discusses the cellular mechanisms allowing the major types of glial cells to sense and transmit GABAergic signals and gives an overview of potential roles of this signaling pathway in developing and mature brains.

The neurosteroid allopregnanolone modulates specific functions in central and peripheral glial cells

Since the first observations on the existence of "neurosteroids" in the 1980s, our understanding of the importance of these endogenous steroids in the control of the central and peripheral nervous system (PNS) has increased progressively. Although most of the observations were made in neuronal cells, equally important are the effects that neurosteroids exert on glial cells. Among the different classes of neurosteroids acting on glial cells, the progesterone 5α-3α metabolite, allopregnanolone, displays a particular mechanism of action involving primarily the modulation of classic GABA receptors. In this review, we focus our attention on allopregnanolone because its effects on the physiology of glial cells of the central and PNS are intriguing and could potentially lead to the development of new strategies for neuroprotection and/or regeneration of injured nervous tissues.

GABA and neuroactive steroid interactions in glia: new roles for old players?

In recent years it has becoming clear that glial cells of the central and peripheral nervous system play a crucial role from the earliest stages of development throughout adult life. Glial cells are important for neuronal plasticity, axonal conduction and synaptic transmission. In this respect, glial cells are able to produce, uptake and metabolize many factors that are essential for neuronal physiology, including classic neurotransmitters and neuroactive steroids. In particular, neuroactive steroids, which are mainly synthesized by glial cells, are able to modulate some neurotransmitter receptors affecting both glia and neurons. Among the signaling systems that are specialized for neuron-glial communication, we can include neurotransmitter GABA.The main focus of this review is to illustrate the cross-talk between neurons and glial cells in terms of GABA neurotransmission and actions of neuroactive steroids. To this purpose, we will review the presence of the different GABA receptors in the glial cells of the central and peripheral nervous system. Then, we will discuss their modulation by some neuroactive steroids.

TRPM3 is expressed in sphingosine-responsive myelinating oligodendrocytes

Oligodendrocytes are the myelin-forming cells of the CNS and guarantee proper nerve conduction. Sphingosine, one major component of myelin, has recently been identified to activate TRPM3, a member of the melastatin-related subfamily of transient receptor potential (TRP) channels. TRPM3 has been demonstrated to be expressed in brain with unknown cellular distribution. Here, we show for the first time that TRPM3 is expressed in oligodendrocytes in vitro and in vivo. TRPM3 is present during oligodendrocyte differentiation. Immunohistochemistry of adult rat brain slices revealed staining of white matter areas, which co-localized with oligodendrocyte markers. Analysis of the developmental distribution revealed that, prior to myelination, TRPM3 channels are localized on neurons. On oligodendrocytes they are found after the onset of myelination. RT-PCR studies showed that the transcription of TRPM3 splice variants is also developmentally regulated in vitro. Ca(2+) imaging approaches revealed the presence of a sphingosine-induced Ca(2+) entry mechanism in oligodendrocytes - with a pharmacological profile similar to the profile published for heterologously expressed TRPM3. These findings indicate that TRPM3 participates as a Ca(2+)-permeable and sphingosine-activated channel in oligodendrocyte differentiation and CNS myelination.

Mu and kappa opioids modulate mouse embryonic stem cell-derived neural progenitor differentiation via MAP kinases

As embryonic stem cell-derived neural progenitors (NPs) have the potential to be used in cell replacement therapy, an understanding of the signaling mechanisms that regulate their terminal differentiation is imperative. In previous studies, we discovered the presence of functional mu opioid receptors (MOR) and kappa opioid receptors (KOR) in mouse embryonic stem cells and NPs. Here, MOR and KOR immunoreactivity was detected in NP-derived oligodendrocytes during three stages of their maturation in vitro. Moreover, we examined the modulation of retinoic acid-induced NP differentiation to astrocytes and neurons by mu, [D-ala(2), mephe(4), gly-ol(5)] enkephalin, or kappa, U69, 593, opioids. Both opioid agonists inhibited NP-derived neurogenesis and astrogenesis via their corresponding receptors as determined by immunocytochemistry. By administering selective inhibitors, we found that opioid inhibition of NP-derived astrogenesis was driven via extracellular-signal regulated kinase (ERK), while the p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway was implicated in opioid attenuation of neurogenesis. In addition, mu and kappa opioids stimulated oligodendrogenesis from NP-derived NG2(+) oligodendrocyte progenitors via both ERK and p38 signaling pathways. Accordingly, both opioids induced ERK phosphorylation in NG2(+) cells. These results indicate that small molecules, such as MOR and KOR agonists may play a modulatory role in NP terminal differentiation.

GABAergic activities enhance macrophage inflammatory protein-1alpha release from microglia (brain macrophages) in postnatal mouse brain

Microglial cells (brain macrophages) invade the brain during embryonic and early postnatal development, migrate preferentially along fibre tracts to their final position and transform from an amoeboid to a ramified morphology. Signals by which the invading microglia communicate with other brain cells are largely unknown. Here, we studied amoeboid microglia in postnatal corpus callosum obtained from 6- to 8-day-old mice. These cells accumulated on the surface of acute brain slices. Whole-cell patch-clamp recordings revealed that the specific GABA(A) receptor agonist muscimol triggered a transient increase in conductance typical for inward rectifying potassium channels in microglia. This current increase was not mediated by microglial GABA(A) receptors since microglial cells removed from the slice surface no longer reacted and cultured microglia only responded when a brain slice was placed in their close vicinity. Muscimol triggered a transient increase in extracellular potassium concentration ([K(+)](o)) in brain slices and an experimental elevation of [K(+)](o) mimicked the muscimol response in microglial cells. Moreover, in adult brain slices, muscimol led only to a minute increase in [K(+)](o) and microglial cells failed to respond to muscimol. In turn, an increase in [K(+)](o) stimulated the release of chemokine macrophage inflammatory protein-1alpha (MIP1-alpha) from brain slices and from cultures of microglia but not astrocytes. Our observations indicate that invading microglia in early postnatal development sense GABAergic activities indirectly via sensing changes in [K(+)](o) which results in an increase in MIP1-alpha release.

Developing oligodendrocytes express functional GABA(B) receptors that stimulate cell proliferation and migration

GABA(B) receptors (GABA(B)Rs) are involved in early events during neuronal development. The presence of GABA(B)Rs in developing oligodendrocytes has not been established. Using immunofluorescent co-localization, we have identified GABA(B)R proteins in O4 marker-positive oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs) in 4-day-old mouse brain periventricular white matter. In culture, OPCs, differentiated oligodendrocytes (DOs) and type 2 astrocytes (ASTs) express both the GABA(B1abcdf) and GABA(B2) subunits of the GABA(B)R. Using semiquantitative PCR analysis with GABA(B)R isoform-selective primers we found that the expression level of GABA(B1abd) was substantially higher in OPCs or ASTs than in DOs. In contrast, the GABA(B2) isoform showed a similar level of expression in OPCs and DOs, and a significantly higher level in ASTs. This indicates that the expression of GABA(B1) and GABA(B2) subunits are under independent control during oligodendroglial development. Activation of GABA(B)Rs using the selective agonist baclofen demonstrated that these receptors are functionally active and negatively coupled to adenylyl cyclase. Manipulation of GABA(B)R activity had no effect on OPC migration in a conventional agarose drop assay, whereas baclofen significantly increased OPC migration in a more sensitive transwell microchamber-based assay. Exposure of cultured OPCs to baclofen increased their proliferation, providing evidence for a functional role of GABA(B)Rs in oligodendrocyte development. The presence of GABA(B)Rs in developing oligodendrocytes provides a new mechanism for neuronal-glial interactions during development and may offer a novel target for promoting remyelination following white matter injury.

Synaptic communication between neurons and NG2+ cells

Chemical synaptic transmission provides the basis for much of the rapid signaling that occurs within neuronal networks. However, recent studies have provided compelling evidence that synapses are not used exclusively for communication between neurons. Physiological and anatomical studies indicate that a distinct class of glia known as NG2(+) cells also forms direct synaptic junctions with both glutamatergic and GABAergic neurons. Glutamatergic signaling can influence intracellular Ca(2+) levels in NG2(+) cells by activating Ca(2+) permeable AMPA receptors, and these inputs can be potentiated through high frequency stimulation. Although the significance of this highly differentiated form of communication remains to be established, these neuro-glia synapses might enable neurons to influence rapidly the behavior of this ubiquitous class of glial progenitors.

Quantal transmission: not just for neurons

Glia have moved into the spotlight as participants in synaptic signaling. Recent work by Bergles and colleagues extends this active role by showing that oligodendrocyte precursors cells (OPCs) in the hippocampus receive functional glutamatergic and GABAergic synapses. Synaptic signaling in these cells could provide a mechanism for activity-dependent modulation of OPC proliferation and differentiation.

Synaptic signaling between neurons and glia

Rapid signaling between vertebrate neurons occurs primarily at synapses, intercellular junctions where quantal release of neurotransmitter triggers rapid changes in membrane conductance through activation of ionotropic receptors. Glial cells express many of these same ionotropic receptors, yet little is known about how receptors in glial cells become activated in situ. Because synapses were thought to be the sole provenance of neurons, it has been assumed that these receptors must be activated following diffusion of transmitter out of the synaptic cleft, or through nonsynaptic mechanisms such as transporter reversal. Two recent reports show that a ubiquitous class of progenitors that express the proteoglycan NG2 (NG2 cells) engage in rapid signaling with glutamatergic and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)ergic neurons through direct neuron-glia synapses. Quantal release of transmitter from neurons at these sites triggers rapid activation of aminomethylisoxazole propionic acid (AMPA) or GABA(A) receptors in NG2 cells. These currents exhibit properties consistent with direct rather than spillover-mediated transmission, and electron micrographic analyses indicate that nerve terminals containing clusters of synaptic vesicles form discrete junctions with NG2 cell processes. Although activation of AMPA or GABA(A) receptors depolarize NG2 cells, these receptors are more likely to serve as routes for ion flux rather than as current sources for depolarization, because the amplitudes of the synaptic transients are small and the resting membrane potential of NG2 cells is highly negative. The ability of both glutamate and GABA to influence the morphology, physiology, and development of NG2 cells in vitro suggests that this rapid form of signaling may play important roles in adapting the behavior of these cells to the needs of surrounding neurons in vivo.

Pentylenetetrazole affects metabolism of astrocytes in culture

Cortical and cerebellar astrocytes were cultured in medium containing pentylenetetrazole (PTZ), a gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)(A) receptor antagonist, for 3 weeks (up to 6 mM) or 2 hr (10 mM). Cells were incubated in medium containing [U-(13)C]glutamate (0.5 mM) and unlabeled glucose (3 mM) for 2 hr and cell extracts and media were analyzed by (13)C magnetic resonance (MR) spectroscopy and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). When cerebellar astrocytes were incubated with PTZ for 2 hr, the amount of glucose removed from the medium and glucose and [U-(13)C]glutamate oxidation were decreased. Metabolism in cortical astrocytes was affected only slightly; amounts of glutathione and aspartate were decreased. When cerebellar and cortical cells were cultured in the presence of PTZ for 3 weeks, the amount of glucose removed from the medium and lactate formed were increased, indicating increased glycolytic activity. Despite the increased intracellular [U-(13)C]glutamate concentration in both types of astrocytes cultured with PTZ, labeled glutamine and glutathione were unchanged, indicating intracellular compartmentation. The amount of cellular protein was decreased at 6 mM PTZ for cerebellar astrocytes and 1 mM for cortical astrocytes, indicating a differential sensitivity to the effects of PTZ. In conclusion, mitochondrial metabolism and glycolysis were decreased by short-term incubation with PTZ in cerebellar astrocytes, whereas long-term incubation affected both types of astrocytes, leading to increased glycolysis.

Synaptic signaling between GABAergic interneurons and oligodendrocyte precursor cells in the hippocampus

Oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs) express receptors for many neurotransmitters, but the mechanisms responsible for their activation are poorly understood. We have found that quantal release of GABA from interneurons elicits GABA(A) receptor currents with rapid rise times in hippocampal OPCs. These currents did not exhibit properties of spillover transmission or release by transporters, and immunofluorescence and electron microscopy suggest that interneuronal terminals are in direct contact with OPCs, indicating that these GABA currents are generated at direct interneuron-OPC synapses. The reversal potential of OPC GABA(A) currents was -43 mV, and interneuronal firing was correlated with transient depolarizations induced by GABA(A) receptors; however, GABA application induced a transient inhibition of currents mediated by AMPA receptors in OPCs. These results indicate that OPCs are a direct target of interneuronal collaterals and that the GABA-induced Cl(-) flux generated by these events may influence oligodendrocyte development by regulating the efficacy of glutamatergic signaling in OPCs.

Bergmann glia GABA(A) receptors concentrate on the glial processes that wrap inhibitory synapses

We studied the cellular and subcellular distribution of GABA(A) receptors in the Bergmann glia and Purkinje cells in the molecular layer of the cerebellum by using electron microscopy postembedding immunogold techniques. Gold particles corresponding to alpha2 and gamma1 immunoreactivity were localized in Bergmann glia processes that wrapped Purkinje cell somata, dendritic shafts, and some dendritic spines. The gold particles were mainly located on the glial plasma membrane or intracellularly but near the plasma membrane. The density of gold particles corresponding to alpha2 and gamma1 GABA(A) receptor subunits was 4.3-fold higher in the glial processes wrapping Purkinje cell somata than in the glial processes wrapping Purkinje cell dendritic spines. Moreover, the Bergmann glia GABA(A) receptors were often located in close proximity to the type II GABAergic synapses made by the basket cell axons on Purkinje cell somata. These GABAergic synapses were enriched in neuronal GABA(A) receptors containing alpha1 and beta2/3 subunits. Unexpectedly, 2.8% of the Purkinje cell dendritic spines also showed immunoreactivity for the neuronal alpha1 or beta2/3 subunits, which were located on the spine in type I synapses or extrasynaptically. Double-labeling immunogold experiments showed that approximately 50% of the dendritic spines that were immunolabeled with the neuronal GABA(A) receptors were wrapped by Bergmann glia processes containing glial GABA(A) receptors. These results are consistent with a role of the Bergmann glial GABA(A) receptors in sensing GABAergic synaptic function.

Developmental regulation of alpha 1A-adrenoceptor function in rat brain oligodendrocyte cultures

In this study, we examined the effect of norepinephrine (NE) on phosphatidylinositol-4,5-bisphosphate (PI) hydrolysis in progenitors and differentiated oligodendrocytes. NE caused a time- and concentration-dependent increase in total inositol phosphate (IP(t)) formation. The magnitude of this response increased as oligodendrocytes matured and was accompanied with an increase in alpha(1)-adrenoceptor (alpha(1)-AR) levels. To pharmacologically characterize the alpha(1)-AR subtype mediating PI hydrolysis in 12-day differentiated oligodendrocytes, various selective antagonists were used. Prazosin, the non-selective 1-AR antagonist, blocked NE-mediated IP(t) formation. Similarly, the alpha(1A)-AR selective competitive antagonists, 5-methyl urapidil (5-MU) and WB4104, were potent blockers of NE-mediated IP(t) formation. In contrast, the alpha(1B)- and alpha(1D)-AR antagonist, chloroethylclonidine and the alpha(1D)-AR antagonist, BMY 7378, had no effect. These results suggest that NE-induced PI hydrolysis in differentiated oligodendrocytes was mediated through the alpha(1A)-AR. Furthermore, this response was prevented by EGTA and CdCl(2), suggesting a requirement for extracellular calcium. The presence of alpha(1)-AR subtypes in oligodendrocytes was confirmed by reverse transcriptase coupled polymerase chain reaction and by immunoprecipitation, with subtype specific antibodies. The results indicated that mRNA and protein for the alpha(1A)-, alpha(1B)- and alpha(1D)-AR subtypes were expressed. In conclusion, our findings show that oligodendrocytes express all three alpha(1)-AR subtypes but that only the alpha(1A)-AR was involved in NE-mediated IP(t) formation.

Ion channels in glial cells

Functional and molecular analysis of glial voltage- and ligand-gated ion channels underwent tremendous boost over the last 15 years. The traditional image of the glial cell as a passive, structural element of the nervous system was transformed into the concept of a plastic cell, capable of expressing a large variety of ion channels and neurotransmitter receptors. These molecules might enable glial cells to sense neuronal activity and to integrate it within glial networks, e.g., by means of spreading calcium waves. In this review we shall give a comprehensive summary of the main functional properties of ion channels and ionotropic receptors expressed by macroglial cells, i.e., by astrocytes, oligodendrocytes and Schwann cells. In particular we will discuss in detail glial sodium, potassium and anion channels, as well as glutamate, GABA and ATP activated ionotropic receptors. A majority of available data was obtained from primary cell culture, these results have been compared with corresponding studies that used acute tissue slices or freshly isolated cells. In view of these data, an active glial participation in information processing seems increasingly likely and a physiological role for some of the glial channels and receptors is gradually emerging.

A role for glutamate and its receptors in the regulation of oligodendrocyte development in cerebellar tissue slices

We tested the hypothesis that the neurotransmitter glutamate would influence glial proliferation and differentiation in a cytoarchitecturally intact system. Postnatal day 6 cerebellar slices were maintained in organotypic culture and treated with glutamate receptor agonists or antagonists. After dissociation, cells were stained with antibodies for different oligodendrocyte developmentally regulated antigens. Treatment of the slices with the glutamate receptor agonists kainate or alpha -amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid significantly decreased the percentage of LB1(+), NG2(+) and O4(+) cells, and their bromodeoxyuridine labeling index. The non-N-methyl-D-aspartate glutamate receptor antagonist 6,7-dinitroquinoxaline-2,3-dione increased the percentage and bromodeoxyuridine labeling of LB1(+), NG2(+) and O4(+) cells. In intact slices, RNA levels of the oligodendrocyte gene for 2′,3′-cyclic nucleotide 3′-phosphodiesterase were decreased by kainate and alpha-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid, and increased by 6,7-dinitroquinoxaline-2,3-dione. The percentage of astrocytes was not modified by kainate, alpha -amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid or 6, 7-dinitroquinoxaline-2,3-dione. Treatment with the N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor antagonist 2-amino-5-phosphonopentanoic acid did not alter the percentage of O4(+) cells, nor their proliferation. Incubation with the gamma-aminobutyric acid receptor antagonist bicuculline did not modify the percentage of LB1(+), A2B5(+) and O4(+) cells. In purified cerebellar oligodendrocyte progenitor cells, glutamate receptor agonists blocked K+ currents, and inhibited cell proliferation and lineage progression. The K+ channel blocker tetraethylammonium also inhibited oligodendrocyte progenitor cell proliferation. These findings indicate that in rat cerebellar tissue slices: (i) glutamate specifically modulates oligodendrocyte but not astrocyte development through selective activation of alpha -amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid receptors, and (ii) cell depolarization and blockage of voltage-dependent K+ channels is likely to be the triggering mechanism.

Voltage- and ligand-gated ion channels in floor plate neuroepithelia of the rat

Whole-cell patch-clamp recordings were used to characterize the membrane properties and ion channel complement of floor plate neuroepithelia in embryonic and neonatal rats. The average resting potential was close to -60 mV, the capacitance was approximately 7 pS and the membrane time constant averaged 31 ms, in both neonates and embryos. Two types of K+ current were identified (i) a slowly activating, slowly inactivating current that was present in all cells, and (ii) a rapidly inactivating current that was present in 39% of cells from neonates and 64% of cells from embryos. K+ currents were significantly larger in neonates than embryos. Na+ currents were absent from all neuroepithelial cells examined. In contrast, the majority of floor plate cells exhibited a significant Ca2+ current. Biophysically this current activated at potentials positive to 60 mV and exhibited fast, voltage-dependent, inactivation. The Ca2+ current was equipermeant to Ca2+ and Ba2+, sensitive to 40-120 microM Ni2+ and only slightly inhibited by 100 microM Cd2+. These and other observations indicated this current is mediated by low-voltage-activated (i.e. T-type) Ca2+ channels. The majority of floor plate cells tested also exhibited responses to the neurotransmitter GABA which produced robust inward currents at negative membrane potentials, in chloride-loaded cells. Both the pharmacology and voltage-dependence of the GABA-activated currents indicated they arose from activation of GABA(A) receptors.

Identification of the dopamine D3 receptor in oligodendrocyte precursors: potential role in regulating differentiation and myelin formation

Expression of the dopamine D3 receptor (D3r) was found in primary mixed glial cultures from newborn brain and in the corpus callosum in vivo during the peak of myelination. Expression of the D3r mRNA, but not D2r mRNA, was detected as early as 5 d in vitro (DIV) by RT-PCR. Immunoblot studies revealed D3r protein was also expressed in the cultures. Double immunofluorescence analysis for the D3r and for surface markers of specific stages of oligodendrocyte development indicated that D3r expression occurred in precursors and in immature oligodendrocytes but not in mature oligodendrocytes (i.e. , A2B5(+) 007(-) 01(-) and A2B5(+) 007(+) 01(-) cells but not A2B5(-) 007(+) 01(+) cells). Confocal microscopic analysis indicated that D3r was associated with cell bodies and cell membranes but not with the processes emanating from cell somas. Immunohistochemistry of brain sections revealed the presence of D3r in some oligodendrocytes located mainly within the genu and radiato of the corpus callosum during the active period of myelination. Treatment of cultures with 20 microM quinpirole led to decreased numbers of O1(+) oligodendrocytes possessing myelin-like membranes as well as an increase in the number of precursors in 14 DIV cultures. This effect was prevented by the dopamine antagonist haloperidol. These results show that the D3r expression is not restricted to neurons but it is also expressed in differentiating oligodendrocytes before terminal maturation. It also suggests that dopamine or some other D3r ligand may play a role in oligodendrocyte differentiation and/or the formation of myelin by mature oligodendrocytes.

Properties of GABA(A) receptors in cultured rat oligodendrocyte progenitor cells

We have studied the properties of GABA responses in oligodendrocyte-type 2 astrocyte (O-2A) progenitor cells derived from primary cultures of the neonatal rat brain. In whole cell voltage clamp recordings, rapid application of 1-10 mM GABA elicited current responses in > 85% of the cells examined. The dose-response relationship pooled from nine progenitor cells was best fit by a logistic function of EC50=113 microM and Hill coefficient=0.9. In contrast to the rate of current deactivation, the rate of current activation exhibited marked concentration-dependence. Pharmacologically, GABA, muscimol and ZAPA ((Z)-3[(aminiiminomethyl)thio]prop-2-enoic acid sulphate) produced responses with ligand-specific kinetics, whereas glycine and the GABA(C) receptor agonist CACA were without effect; bicuculline methochloride acted as a competitive antagonist. Neither the amplitude nor the kinetics of currents produced by 100 microM GABA were affected by the benzodiazepine flunitrazepam (1 microM). Similarly the benzodiazepine receptor inverse agonist DMCM (1 microM) was also without effect. GABA-activated currents reversed polarity within 2 mV of the calculated Cl- equilibrium potential. With brief agonist pulses deactivation was monoexponential, however, unlike neurones the rate of deactivation was voltage-independent. Desensitisation of responses to 10 mM GABA was bi-exponential and accelerated at depolarised membrane potentials. Increasing the amount of GABA(A) receptor desensitisation (by increasing the duration of the agonist exposure) consistently produced a slowing of deactivation.

Basic FGF-responsive telencephalic precursor cells express functional GABA(A) receptor/Cl-channels in vitro

We have previously described the expression of specific gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)A receptor subunits and their transcripts in the cortical neuroepithelium (Ma and Barker, 1995, 1998). However, it is not clear whether neural precursor cells exposed to basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) in vitro reproduce the biological properties of neuroepithelial cells in vivo within the embryonic ventricular zone. In the present study, neural precursor cells were isolated from the telencephalic neuroepithelium of embryonic day 13-13.5 rats and exposed to bFGF in serum-free medium. Basic FGF-responsive cells were capable of dividing and differentiating into neurons and astrocytes. The rapidly dividing cells formed multicellular spheres and then a rosette-like formation in which a majority of cells expressed GABA(A) receptor alpha4, beta1, or gamma1 subunit proteins. We found in perforated patch-clamp recordings that GABA depolarized bromodeoxyundine (BrdU)+ precursor cells, and under voltage-clamp induced a bicuculline-sensitive current that reversed at the Cl- equilibrium potential. GABA also increased cytoplasmic Ca2+ in a significant number of BrdU+ cells that was blocked by bicuculline. The bicuculline sensitivity of these pharmacological effects implicates GABA(A) receptor/Cl- channels, since bicuculline is a competitive GABA(A) antagonist at these channels in well-differentiated cells. It is possible that the three GABA(A) receptor subunits (alpha4, beta1, and gamma1) found in precursor cells form the Cl- channels detected electrophysiologically. The functional GABA(A) receptor/Cl- channels and associated regulation of their cytoplasmic Ca2+ levels via bicuculline-sensitive mechanisms may play significant roles in the regulation of neural cell proliferation in this model neuroepithelium.

Postnatal localization and morphogenesis of cells expressing the dopaminergic D2 receptor gene in rat brain: expression in non-neuronal cells

The cellular localization of the dopaminergic D2 receptor (D2R) mRNA and protein was determined during postnatal development, from birth to 35 days, in the rat neostriatum by in situ hybridization histochemistry and immunohistochemistry. To localize and identify more precisely the morphology of cells expressing the D2R mRNA, nonradioactive, digoxigenin in situ hybridization was performed. Throughout this period of development, D2R mRNA and protein were widely expressed by neostriatal cells, adjoining forebrain cells and small cellular processes. Within morphologically identifiable neurons, the expression of the D2 receptor appeared to occur after cell division ceased. D2R gene expression appeared during neuronal migration and followed the developmental pattern of neuronal settling within the neostriatum. Both D2R mRNA and protein appeared to colocalize in neostriatal cells and the labeling of both appeared to accumulate within the cells progressively with age. The structural phenotypes of neostriatal neurons bearing D2R mRNA and protein were diverse throughout postnatal development. The most frequently stained cells were a heterogeneous group of medium spiny and aspiny neurons. Large cells corresponding to aspiny neurons were less frequently stained. Both phenotypes exhibited considerable postnatal growth of their cell bodies. In addition to neurons, other cell types were also observed to express the D2R mRNA and protein over the developmental period studied. These other cells included patches of ciliated ependymal cells lining the lateral ventricles and many interfascicular oligodendroglia of forebrain fiber tracts. These results demonstrate the unexpected expression of the dopaminergic D2 receptor in non-neuronal cells within the brain. They provide a novel morphologic suggestion that the dopaminergic D2 receptor may support unrecognized, nonsynaptic functions in specific non-neuronal cell populations in the nervous system.

Expression of the Na-K-2Cl cotransporter is developmentally regulated in postnatal rat brains: a possible mechanism underlying GABA's excitatory role in immature brain

An inhibitory neurotransmitter in mature brain, gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) also appears to be excitatory early in development. The mechanisms underlying this shift are not well understood. In vitro studies have suggested that Na-K-Cl cotransport may have a role in modulating immature neuronal and oligodendrocyte responses to the neurotransmitter GABA. An in vivo developmental study would test this view. Therefore, we examined the expression of the BSC2 isoform of the Na-K-2Cl cotransporter in the postnatal developing rat brain. A comparison of sections from developing rat brains by in situ hybridization revealed a well-delineated temporal and spatial pattern of first increasing and then diminishing cotransporter expression. Na-K-2Cl mRNA expression in the cerebral cortex and hippocampus was highest in the first week of postnatal life and then diminished from postnatal day (PND) 14 to adult. Cotransporter signal in white-matter tracts of the cerebrum, cerebellum, peaked at PND 14. Expression was detected in cerebellar progenitor cells of the external granular layer, in internal granular layer cells at least as early as PND 7, and in Purkinje cells beginning at PND 14. Double-labeling immunofluorescence of brain sections with anti-BSC2 antibody and cell type-specific antibodies confirmed expression of the cotransporter gene product in neurons and oligodendrocytes in the white matter in a pattern similar to that determined by in situ hybridization. The temporal pattern of expression of the Na-K-2Cl cotransporter in the postnatal rat brain supports the hypothesis that the cotransporter is the mechanism of intracellular Cl- accumulation in immature neurons and oligodendrocytes.

Voltage- and GABA-evoked currents from Müller glial cells of the baboon retina

The electrophysiological features of isolated baboon Müller cells was investigated using the whole-cell voltage-clamp technique. Application of depolarizing voltage steps evoked transient inward and delayed outward currents. The transient currents disappeared when extracellular Na+ was replaced by choline+ and were substantially decreased by application of tetrodotoxin (1 microM). The outward currents were strongly diminished by extracellular Ba2+ (1 mM), and the hyperpolarization-generated inward currents disappeared following application of Ba2+. The recently described gamma-aminobutyric acid A (GABAA) receptor currents were increased by flunitrazepam, nordiazepam, pentobarbital and Zn2+, as well as by the inverse agonist DMCM. These results suggest that the baboon Müller cells possess the same voltage-dependent current pattern as those from other species, e.g. humans, whereas their GABAA receptors react in an uncharacteristic manner to DMCM and Zn2+, when compared with neuronal GABAA receptors.

Glutamate induces c-fos proto-oncogene expression and inhibits proliferation in oligodendrocyte progenitors: receptor characterization

The effect of glutamate on c-fos expression in oligodendrocyte progenitors was investigated by Northern blot analysis. Glutamate caused rapid and transient induction. Both 6-cyano-7-nitro-quinoxaline-2,3-dione (CNQX) and 6,7-dinitroquinoxaline-2,3-dione (DNQX), two competitive non-NMDA ionotropic receptor antagonists, reduced glutamate-induced c-fos expression, whereas the NMDA antagonist MK-801 was ineffective. In addition, the glutamate receptor agonists (+/-)-alpha-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methylisoxazole-4-propionic acid hydrobromide (AMPA) and kainate strongly induced c-fos. However, the metabotropic receptor agonist trans-(+/-)-1-amino-(1S,3R)-cyclopentanedicarboxylic acid (trans-(+/-)-ACPD) did not increase c-fos mRNA level and the antagonist L-(+)-2-amino-3-phosphonopropionic acid did not block glutamate-induced c-fos mRNA. These findings indicate that c-fos induction in oligodendrocyte progenitors is mediated through the AMPA/kainate receptors, while NMDA and metabotropic receptor subtypes are not involved. Chelation of extracellular calcium by EDTA prevented glutamate-induced c-fos expression. Similarly, the protein kinase C inhibitor 1-(5-isoquinoline-sulphonyl)-2-methylpiperazine dihydrochloride (H7) and down-regulation of protein kinase C by prolonged exposure to phorbol-12-myristate 13-acetate blocked c-fos induction. These results suggest that induction of c-fos through AMPA/kainate receptors is dependent on extracellular calcium influx and involves downstream activation of phorbol ester-sensitive protein kinase C. The effect of glutamate on oligodendrocyte progenitor proliferation was assessed by [3H]thymidine incorporation. Glutamate and the agonists kainate and AMPA, but not trans-(+/-)-ACPD, caused a dose-dependent decrease in [3H]thymidine incorporation. All these pharmacological agents were not toxic to oligodendrocyte progenitors. CNQX reversed the inhibitory effects produced by glutamate and the various agonists. These results suggest that glutamate may modulate the growth and differentiation of oligodendrocytes in the central nervous system.

Adult rat optic nerve oligodendrocyte progenitor cells express a distinct repertoire of voltage- and ligand-gated ion channels

Cultured oligodendrocyte progenitor cells derived from the developing central nervous system (CNS) express a pattern of ion channels that is distinct from mature oligodendrocytes and other cell types of the CNS. In the present study, we used the whole-cell patch-clamp technique and the fura-2-based Ca++ imaging system to study the ion channel expression of oligodendrocyte progenitor cells derived from the optic nerves of adult rats. We found that the adult oligodendrocyte progenitor cell membrane is dominated by K+ currents, both delayed outward and inward rectifying. The inwardly rectifying K+ currents were often as large as the outward delayed rectifying K+ currents. The delayed rectifying outward currents were partially blocked by 50 mM tetraethylammonium or 1 mM 4-aminopyridine, but not by 2 or 5 mM BaCl2. This suggests that the delayed rectifier channels expressed by adult progenitor cells are different from those expressed by perinatal cells. Most adult oligodendrocyte progenitor cells showed no or only small A-type K+ currents. Both Ca++ and Na+ channels were also detected in these cells. Furthermore, adult progenitor cells responded to the neurotransmitters GABA and kainate and the pharmacology of these responses indicated that these cells express GABAA receptors and kainate receptors that are Ca(++)-permeable. Our study suggests that adult oligodendrocyte progenitor cells are electrophysiologically distinct and that these cells share electrophysiological characteristics with both perinatal progenitor cells and immature oligodendrocytes.

Receptors on astrocytes--what possible functions?

Receptors for transmitters, as varied as those expressed by neurons, have been described on primary astrocyte cultures prepared from new-born rats and mice. A variety of functional effects and considerable cell-to-cell and regional heterogeneity have been observed for such receptors in vitro. The various systems available for studying the presence and properties of receptors on astrocytes in situ, and the results from these studies, are discussed. Much fewer studies using these more difficult systems have been done. So far, some resemblances and differences between in situ and in vitro work have been observed. More of these in situ studies, to supplement the ongoing in vitro work, are needed to enable us to determine unequivocally which receptors are present on astrocytes, and their functions in vivo. If there is cell-to-cell and CNS regional heterogeneity in vivo comparable to that seen in vitro, these analyses will be very complex. To illustrate the importance and variety of receptor-linked functions, a number of suggestions are made in this commentary, based on current proposals for the roles of astrocytes. However, it is argued that we need to have a more complete understanding of astrocyte functions in vivo, before we can really understand the functional significance of astrocyte receptors.

GABA binding sites: their density, their affinity to muscimol and their behaviour against neuroactive steroids in human gliomas of different degrees of malignancy

The aim of the present investigation was to answer the question if there exists a relation between the equipment of human gliomas with GABA binding sites and the degree of malignancy of these tumours diagnostically characterized according to WHO classification. The following parameters were assessed: the density, the affinity and the sensitivity to the modulating steroids 3 alpha-hydroxy-5 alpha-pregnane-20-one (3 alpha OH-DHP) and 3 alpha,21 dihydroxy-5 alpha-pregnane-20-one (THDOC). Scatchard analysis and non linear computerization revealed that the occurrence of GABA sites was directly related to the degree of tumour malignancy: GABA sites were only detectable in lower malignant gliomas of WHO grade II but not in the very malignant glioblastomas. However, irrespective of the individual density to be detected all glioma GABA sites were sensitive to 3 alpha-hydroxy-5 alpha-pregnane-20-one (3 alpha OH-DHP) and 3 alpha,21 dihydroxy-5 alpha-pregnane-20-one (THDOC) without exception. The effects of THDOC were due to increases in the number of binding sites whereas in the presence of 3 alpha OH-DHP a decrease in affinity was noted, additionally. These findings support the view of a normal functional integrity of GABA receptors in gliomas.

Astrocytic GABA receptors

GABA receptors are distributed widely throughout the central nervous system on a variety of cell types. It has become increasingly clear that astrocytes, both in cell culture and tissue slices, express abundant GABAA receptors. In astrocytes, GABA activates Cl(-)-specific channels that are modulated by barbiturates and benzodiazepines; however, the neuronal inverse agonist methyl-4-ethyl-6, 7-dimethoxy-beta-carboline-3-carboxylate enhances the current in a subpopulation of astrocytes. The properties of astrocytic GABAA receptors, therefore, are remarkably similar to their neuronal counterparts, with only a few pharmacological exceptions. In stellate glial cells of the pituitary pars intermedia, GABA released from neuronal terminals activates postsynaptic potentials directly. The physiological significance of astrocytic GABAA-receptor activation remains unknown, but it may be involved in extracellular ion homeostasis and pH regulation. At present, there is considerably less evidence for the presence of GABAB receptors on astrocytes. The data that have emerged, however, indicate a prominent role for second-messenger regulation by this receptor.

Expression and regulation of a glutamate receptor subunit by bFGF in oligodendrocyte progenitors

Oligodendrocyte progenitor cells (O-2A) express both kainate-preferring and AMPA-preferring glutamate receptors (Gallo et al., Soc. Neurosci. Abstr., 18:653, 1992b; Gallo et al., 1994). The expression and regulation of the GluR-4c, AMPA-preferring subunit by growth factors was studied by Northern blot analysis of total RNA from purified rat cortical O-2A progenitors. Differently from cortical neurons, O-2A progenitors only expressed two high molecular weight GluR-4c transcripts (6.2 and 4.2 kb), as observed also in cultured astrocytes. Basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) increased GluR-4c transcript levels in O-2A progenitors and its effects were not mimicked by platelet derived growth factor (PDGF) or fetal calf serum. Therefore, bFGF may regulate O-2A progenitor responsiveness to glutamate during development through the expression of glutamate receptor subunits.