1
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Kourdougli N, Suresh A, Liu B, Juarez P, Lin A, Chung DT, Graven Sams A, Gandal MJ, Martínez-Cerdeño V, Buonomano DV, Hall BJ, Mombereau C, Portera-Cailliau C. Improvement of sensory deficits in fragile X mice by increasing cortical interneuron activity after the critical period. Neuron 2023; 111:2863-2880.e6. [PMID: 37451263 PMCID: PMC10529373 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2023.06.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2022] [Revised: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
Changes in the function of inhibitory interneurons (INs) during cortical development could contribute to the pathophysiology of neurodevelopmental disorders. Using all-optical in vivo approaches, we find that parvalbumin (PV) INs and their immature precursors are hypoactive and transiently decoupled from excitatory neurons in postnatal mouse somatosensory cortex (S1) of Fmr1 KO mice, a model of fragile X syndrome (FXS). This leads to a loss of parvalbumin INs (PV-INs) in both mice and humans with FXS. Increasing the activity of future PV-INs in neonatal Fmr1 KO mice restores PV-IN density and ameliorates transcriptional dysregulation in S1, but not circuit dysfunction. Critically, administering an allosteric modulator of Kv3.1 channels after the S1 critical period does rescue circuit dynamics and tactile defensiveness. Symptoms in FXS and related disorders could be mitigated by targeting PV-INs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Anand Suresh
- Department of Neurology, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Benjamin Liu
- Department of Neurology, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Pablo Juarez
- Department of Pathology, UC Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Ashley Lin
- Department of Neurology, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | | | | | | | | | - Dean V Buonomano
- Department of Neurology, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Department of Psychology, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | | | | | - Carlos Portera-Cailliau
- Department of Neurology, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Department of Neurobiology, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
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2
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Gonda S, Köhler I, Haase A, Czubay K, Räk A, Riedel C, Wahle P. Optogenetic stimulation shapes dendritic trees of infragranular cortical pyramidal cells. Front Cell Neurosci 2023; 17:1212483. [PMID: 37587917 PMCID: PMC10427221 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2023.1212483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 06/09/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Spontaneous or experimentally evoked activity can lead to changes in length and/or branching of neocortical pyramidal cell dendrites. For instance, an early postnatal overexpression of certain AMPA or kainate glutamate receptor subunits leads to larger amplitudes of depolarizing events driven by spontaneous activity, and this increases apical dendritic complexity. Whether stimulation frequency has a role is less clear. In this study, we report that the expression of channelrhodopsin2-eYFP was followed by a 5-day optogenetic stimulation from DIV 5-10 or 11-15 in organotypic cultures of rat visual cortex-evoked dendritic remodeling. Stimulation at 0.05 Hz, at a frequency range of spontaneous calcium oscillations known to occur in the early postnatal neocortex in vivo until eye opening, had no effect. Stimulation with 0.5 Hz, a frequency at which the cortex in vivo adopts after eye opening, unexpectedly caused shorter and somewhat less branched apical dendrites of infragranular pyramidal neurons. The outcome resembles the remodeling of corticothalamic and callosal projection neurons of layers VI and V, which in the adult have apical dendrites no longer terminating in layer I. Exposure to 2.5 Hz, a frequency not occurring naturally during the time windows, evoked dendritic damage. The results suggested that optogenetic stimulation at a biologically meaningful frequency for the selected developmental stage can influence dendrite growth, but contrary to expectation, the optogenetic stimulation decreased dendritic growth.
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3
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Yang Y, Booker SA, Clegg JM, Quintana-Urzainqui I, Sumera A, Kozic Z, Dando O, Martin Lorenzo S, Herault Y, Kind PC, Price DJ, Pratt T. Identifying foetal forebrain interneurons as a target for monogenic autism risk factors and the polygenic 16p11.2 microdeletion. BMC Neurosci 2023; 24:5. [PMID: 36658491 PMCID: PMC9850541 DOI: 10.1186/s12868-022-00771-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Autism spectrum condition or 'autism' is associated with numerous genetic risk factors including the polygenic 16p11.2 microdeletion. The balance between excitatory and inhibitory neurons in the cerebral cortex is hypothesised to be critical for the aetiology of autism making improved understanding of how risk factors impact on the development of these cells an important area of research. In the current study we aim to combine bioinformatics analysis of human foetal cerebral cortex gene expression data with anatomical and electrophysiological analysis of a 16p11.2+/- rat model to investigate how genetic risk factors impact on inhibitory neuron development. METHODS We performed bioinformatics analysis of single cell transcriptomes from gestational week (GW) 8-26 human foetal prefrontal cortex and anatomical and electrophysiological analysis of 16p11.2+/- rat cerebral cortex and hippocampus at post-natal day (P) 21. RESULTS We identified a subset of human interneurons (INs) first appearing at GW23 with enriched expression of a large fraction of risk factor transcripts including those expressed from the 16p11.2 locus. This suggests the hypothesis that these foetal INs are vulnerable to mutations causing autism. We investigated this in a rat model of the 16p11.2 microdeletion. We found no change in the numbers or position of either excitatory or inhibitory neurons in the somatosensory cortex or CA1 of 16p11.2+/- rats but found that CA1 Sst INs were hyperexcitable with an enlarged axon initial segment, which was not the case for CA1 pyramidal cells. LIMITATIONS The human foetal gene expression data was acquired from cerebral cortex between gestational week (GW) 8 to 26. We cannot draw inferences about potential vulnerabilities to genetic autism risk factors for cells not present in the developing cerebral cortex at these stages. The analysis 16p11.2+/- rat phenotypes reported in the current study was restricted to 3-week old (P21) animals around the time of weaning and to a single interneuron cell-type while in human 16p11.2 microdeletion carriers symptoms likely involve multiple cell types and manifest in the first few years of life and on into adulthood. CONCLUSIONS We have identified developing interneurons in human foetal cerebral cortex as potentially vulnerable to monogenic autism risk factors and the 16p11.2 microdeletion and report interneuron phenotypes in post-natal 16p11.2+/- rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yifei Yang
- Simons Initiative for the Developing Brain, The University of Edinburgh, 15 George Square, Edinburgh, EH8 9XD, United Kingdom.,Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, The University of Edinburgh, 15 George Square, Edinburgh, EH8 9XD, United Kingdom.,Department of Brain Sciences, Imperial College London, London, W12 0NN, United Kingdom
| | - Sam A Booker
- Simons Initiative for the Developing Brain, The University of Edinburgh, 15 George Square, Edinburgh, EH8 9XD, United Kingdom.,Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, The University of Edinburgh, 15 George Square, Edinburgh, EH8 9XD, United Kingdom
| | - James M Clegg
- Simons Initiative for the Developing Brain, The University of Edinburgh, 15 George Square, Edinburgh, EH8 9XD, United Kingdom.,Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, The University of Edinburgh, 15 George Square, Edinburgh, EH8 9XD, United Kingdom
| | - Idoia Quintana-Urzainqui
- Simons Initiative for the Developing Brain, The University of Edinburgh, 15 George Square, Edinburgh, EH8 9XD, United Kingdom.,Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, The University of Edinburgh, 15 George Square, Edinburgh, EH8 9XD, United Kingdom.,Developmental Biology Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), Meyerhofstrasse 1, 69012, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Anna Sumera
- Simons Initiative for the Developing Brain, The University of Edinburgh, 15 George Square, Edinburgh, EH8 9XD, United Kingdom.,Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, The University of Edinburgh, 15 George Square, Edinburgh, EH8 9XD, United Kingdom
| | - Zrinko Kozic
- Simons Initiative for the Developing Brain, The University of Edinburgh, 15 George Square, Edinburgh, EH8 9XD, United Kingdom.,Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, The University of Edinburgh, 15 George Square, Edinburgh, EH8 9XD, United Kingdom
| | - Owen Dando
- Simons Initiative for the Developing Brain, The University of Edinburgh, 15 George Square, Edinburgh, EH8 9XD, United Kingdom.,Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, The University of Edinburgh, 15 George Square, Edinburgh, EH8 9XD, United Kingdom
| | - Sandra Martin Lorenzo
- CNRS, Université de Strasbourg, INSERM, Institut de Génétique et de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire, IGBMC, 1 rue Laurent Fries, 67404, Illkirch, France
| | - Yann Herault
- CNRS, Université de Strasbourg, INSERM, Institut de Génétique et de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire, IGBMC, 1 rue Laurent Fries, 67404, Illkirch, France
| | - Peter C Kind
- Simons Initiative for the Developing Brain, The University of Edinburgh, 15 George Square, Edinburgh, EH8 9XD, United Kingdom.,Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, The University of Edinburgh, 15 George Square, Edinburgh, EH8 9XD, United Kingdom
| | - David J Price
- Simons Initiative for the Developing Brain, The University of Edinburgh, 15 George Square, Edinburgh, EH8 9XD, United Kingdom.,Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, The University of Edinburgh, 15 George Square, Edinburgh, EH8 9XD, United Kingdom
| | - Thomas Pratt
- Simons Initiative for the Developing Brain, The University of Edinburgh, 15 George Square, Edinburgh, EH8 9XD, United Kingdom. .,Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, The University of Edinburgh, 15 George Square, Edinburgh, EH8 9XD, United Kingdom.
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4
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Anxiety and Gene Expression Enhancement in Mice Exposed to Glyphosate-Based Herbicide. TOXICS 2022; 10:toxics10050226. [PMID: 35622640 PMCID: PMC9147174 DOI: 10.3390/toxics10050226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Revised: 04/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Growing evidence demonstrates that serotonin (5-HT) depletion increases activity in the amygdala and medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC), ultimately leading to anxiety behavior. Previously, we showed that glyphosate-based herbicides (GBHs) increased anxiety levels and reduced the number of serotoninergic fibers within the mPFCs and amygdalas of exposed mice. However, the impact of this 5-HT depletion following GBH exposure on neuronal activity in these structures is still unknown. In this study, we investigated the effects of GBH on immediate early gene (IEG) activation within the mPFCs and amygdalas of treated mice from juvenile age to adulthood and its subsequent effects on anxiety levels. Mice were treated for subchronic (6 weeks) and chronic (12 weeks) periods with 250 or 500 mg/kg/day of GBH and subjected to behavioral testing using the open field and elevated plus maze paradigms. Then, we analyzed the expression levels of c-Fos and pCREB and established the molecular proxies of neuronal activation within the mPFC and the amygdala. Our data revealed that repeated exposure to GBH triggers anxiogenic behavior in exposed mice. Confocal microscopy investigations into the prelimbic/infralimbic regions of the mPFC and in basolateral/central nuclei of the amygdala disclosed that the behavioral alterations are paralleled by a robust increase in the density and labelling intensity of c-Fos- and pCREB-positive cells. Taken together, these data show that mice exposed to GBH display the hyperactivation of the mPFC–amygdala areas, suggesting that this is a potential mechanism underlying the anxiety-like phenotype.
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5
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Lu X, Yang J, Xiang Y. Modeling human neurodevelopmental diseases with brain organoids. CELL REGENERATION (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2022; 11:1. [PMID: 34982276 PMCID: PMC8727646 DOI: 10.1186/s13619-021-00103-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2021] [Accepted: 11/24/2021] [Indexed: 04/25/2023]
Abstract
Studying the etiology of human neurodevelopmental diseases has long been a challenging task due to the brain's complexity and its limited accessibility. Human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs)-derived brain organoids are capable of recapitulating various features and functionalities of the human brain, allowing the investigation of intricate pathogenesis of developmental abnormalities. Over the past years, brain organoids have facilitated identifying disease-associated phenotypes and underlying mechanisms for human neurodevelopmental diseases. Integrating with more cutting-edge technologies, particularly gene editing, brain organoids further empower human disease modeling. Here, we review the latest progress in modeling human neurodevelopmental disorders with brain organoids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoxiang Lu
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, 201210, China
| | - Jiajie Yang
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, 201210, China
| | - Yangfei Xiang
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, 201210, China.
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6
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Righes Marafiga J, Vendramin Pasquetti M, Calcagnotto ME. GABAergic interneurons in epilepsy: More than a simple change in inhibition. Epilepsy Behav 2021; 121:106935. [PMID: 32035792 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2020.106935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2019] [Revised: 01/08/2020] [Accepted: 01/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The pathophysiology of epilepsy has been historically grounded on hyperexcitability attributed to the oversimplified imbalance between excitation (E) and inhibition (I) in the brain. The decreased inhibition is mostly attributed to deficits in gamma-aminobutyric acid-containing (GABAergic) interneurons, the main source of inhibition in the central nervous system. However, the cell diversity, the wide range of spatiotemporal connectivity, and the distinct effects of the neurotransmitter GABA especially during development, must be considered to critically revisit the concept of hyperexcitability caused by decreased inhibition as a key characteristic in the development of epilepsy. Here, we will discuss that behind this known mechanism, there is a heterogeneity of GABAergic interneurons with distinct functions and sources, which have specific roles in controlling the neural network activity within the recruited microcircuit and altered network during the epileptogenic process. This article is part of the Special Issue "NEWroscience 2018.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseane Righes Marafiga
- Neurophysiology and Neurochemistry of Neuronal Excitability and Synaptic Plasticity Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry, ICBS, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre 90035-003, RS, Brazil; Graduate Program in Biological Science: Biochemistry, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre 90035-003, RS, Brazil
| | - Mayara Vendramin Pasquetti
- Neurophysiology and Neurochemistry of Neuronal Excitability and Synaptic Plasticity Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry, ICBS, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre 90035-003, RS, Brazil; Graduate Program in Biological Science: Biochemistry, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre 90035-003, RS, Brazil
| | - Maria Elisa Calcagnotto
- Neurophysiology and Neurochemistry of Neuronal Excitability and Synaptic Plasticity Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry, ICBS, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre 90035-003, RS, Brazil; Graduate Program in Biological Science: Biochemistry, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre 90035-003, RS, Brazil; Graduate Program in Neuroscience, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre 90046-900, RS, Brazil.
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7
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Sensitive period for rescuing parvalbumin interneurons connectivity and social behavior deficits caused by TSC1 loss. Nat Commun 2021; 12:3653. [PMID: 34135323 PMCID: PMC8209106 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-23939-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2019] [Accepted: 05/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
The Mechanistic Target Of Rapamycin Complex 1 (mTORC1) pathway controls several aspects of neuronal development. Mutations in regulators of mTORC1, such as Tsc1 and Tsc2, lead to neurodevelopmental disorders associated with autism, intellectual disabilities and epilepsy. The correct development of inhibitory interneurons is crucial for functional circuits. In particular, the axonal arborisation and synapse density of parvalbumin (PV)-positive GABAergic interneurons change in the postnatal brain. How and whether mTORC1 signaling affects PV cell development is unknown. Here, we show that Tsc1 haploinsufficiency causes a premature increase in terminal axonal branching and bouton density formed by mutant PV cells, followed by a loss of perisomatic innervation in adult mice. PV cell-restricted Tsc1 haploinsufficient and knockout mice show deficits in social behavior. Finally, we identify a sensitive period during the third postnatal week during which treatment with the mTOR inhibitor Rapamycin rescues deficits in both PV cell innervation and social behavior in adult conditional haploinsufficient mice. Our findings reveal a role of mTORC1 signaling in the regulation of the developmental time course and maintenance of cortical PV cell connectivity and support a mechanistic basis for the targeted rescue of autism-related behaviors in disorders associated with deregulated mTORC1 signaling.
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8
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Patrizi A, Awad PN, Chattopadhyaya B, Li C, Di Cristo G, Fagiolini M. Accelerated Hyper-Maturation of Parvalbumin Circuits in the Absence of MeCP2. Cereb Cortex 2021; 30:256-268. [PMID: 31038696 DOI: 10.1093/cercor/bhz085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2018] [Revised: 02/21/2019] [Accepted: 03/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Methyl-CpG-binding protein 2 (MeCP2) mutations are the primary cause of Rett syndrome, a severe neurodevelopmental disorder. Cortical parvalbumin GABAergic interneurons (PV) make exuberant somatic connections onto pyramidal cells in the visual cortex of Mecp2-deficient mice, which contributes to silencing neuronal cortical circuits. This phenotype can be rescued independently of Mecp2 by environmental, pharmacological, and genetic manipulation. It remains unknown how Mecp2 mutation can result in abnormal inhibitory circuit refinement. In the present manuscript, we examined the development of GABAergic circuits in the primary visual cortex of Mecp2-deficient mice. We identified that PV circuits were the only GABAergic interneurons to be upregulated, while other interneurons were downregulated. Acceleration of PV cell maturation was accompanied by increased PV cells engulfment by perineuronal nets (PNNs) and by an increase of PV cellular and PNN structural complexity. Interestingly, selective deletion of Mecp2 from PV cells was sufficient to drive increased structure complexity of PNN. Moreover, the accelerated PV and PNN maturation was recapitulated in organotypic cultures. Our results identify a specific timeline of disruption of GABAergic circuits in the absence of Mecp2, indicating a possible cell-autonomous role of MeCP2 in the formation of PV cellular arbors and PNN structures in the visual cortex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annarita Patrizi
- F.M. Kirby Neurobiology Center, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.,Schaller Research Group Leader at the German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heildeberg, Germany
| | - Patricia N Awad
- F.M. Kirby Neurobiology Center, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - Chloe Li
- F.M. Kirby Neurobiology Center, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Graziella Di Cristo
- Department of Neurosciences, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Canada.,CHU Ste Justine Research Center, Montreal, QC Canada
| | - Michela Fagiolini
- F.M. Kirby Neurobiology Center, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.,International Research Center for Neurointelligence, University of Tokyo Institutes for Advanced Study, Tokyo, Japan
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9
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Apulei J, Kim N, Testa D, Ribot J, Morizet D, Bernard C, Jourdren L, Blugeon C, Di Nardo AA, Prochiantz A. Non-cell Autonomous OTX2 Homeoprotein Regulates Visual Cortex Plasticity Through Gadd45b/g. Cereb Cortex 2020; 29:2384-2395. [PMID: 29771284 DOI: 10.1093/cercor/bhy108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2017] [Revised: 04/19/2018] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The non-cell autonomous transfer of OTX2 homeoprotein transcription factor into juvenile mouse cerebral cortex regulates parvalbumin interneuron maturation and critical period timing. By analyzing gene expression in primary visual cortex of wild-type and Otx2+/GFP mice at plastic and nonplastic ages, we identified several putative genes implicated in Otx2-dependent visual cortex plasticity for ocular dominance. Cortical OTX2 infusion in juvenile mice induced Gadd45b/g expression through direct regulation of transcription. Intriguingly, a reverse effect was found in the adult, where reducing cortical OTX2 resulted in Gadd45b/g upregulation. Viral expression of Gadd45b in adult visual cortex directly induced ocular dominance plasticity with concomitant changes in MeCP2 foci within parvalbumin interneurons and in methylation states of several plasticity gene promoters, suggesting epigenetic regulation. This interaction provides a molecular mechanism for OTX2 to trigger critical period plasticity yet suppress adult plasticity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Apulei
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Biology (CIRB), Collège de France, CNRS UMR 7241, INSERM U1050, PSL University, Labex MemoLife, Paris, France
| | - Namsuk Kim
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Biology (CIRB), Collège de France, CNRS UMR 7241, INSERM U1050, PSL University, Labex MemoLife, Paris, France
| | - Damien Testa
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Biology (CIRB), Collège de France, CNRS UMR 7241, INSERM U1050, PSL University, Labex MemoLife, Paris, France
| | - Jérôme Ribot
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Biology (CIRB), Collège de France, CNRS UMR 7241, INSERM U1050, PSL University, Labex MemoLife, Paris, France
| | - David Morizet
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Biology (CIRB), Collège de France, CNRS UMR 7241, INSERM U1050, PSL University, Labex MemoLife, Paris, France
| | - Clémence Bernard
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Biology (CIRB), Collège de France, CNRS UMR 7241, INSERM U1050, PSL University, Labex MemoLife, Paris, France
| | - Laurent Jourdren
- Genomic Core Facility, Institut de Biologie de l'Ecole Normale Supérieure (IBENS), Ecole Normale Supérieure, CNRS, INSERM, PSL University, Paris, France
| | - Corinne Blugeon
- Genomic Core Facility, Institut de Biologie de l'Ecole Normale Supérieure (IBENS), Ecole Normale Supérieure, CNRS, INSERM, PSL University, Paris, France
| | - Ariel A Di Nardo
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Biology (CIRB), Collège de France, CNRS UMR 7241, INSERM U1050, PSL University, Labex MemoLife, Paris, France
| | - Alain Prochiantz
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Biology (CIRB), Collège de France, CNRS UMR 7241, INSERM U1050, PSL University, Labex MemoLife, Paris, France
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10
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Fagiolini M, Patrizi A, LeBlanc J, Jin LW, Maezawa I, Sinnett S, Gray SJ, Molholm S, Foxe JJ, Johnston MV, Naidu S, Blue M, Hossain A, Kadam S, Zhao X, Chang Q, Zhou Z, Zoghbi H. Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Centers: A Multidisciplinary Approach to Understand the Pathogenesis of Methyl-CpG Binding Protein 2-related Disorders. Neuroscience 2020; 445:190-206. [PMID: 32360592 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2020.04.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2020] [Revised: 04/20/2020] [Accepted: 04/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Disruptions in the gene encoding methyl-CpG binding protein 2 (MECP2) underlie complex neurodevelopmental disorders including Rett Syndrome (RTT), MECP2 duplication disorder, intellectual disabilities, and autism. Significant progress has been made on the molecular and cellular basis of MECP2-related disorders providing a new framework for understanding how altered epigenetic landscape can derail the formation and refinement of neuronal circuits in early postnatal life and proper neurological function. This review will summarize selected major findings from the past years and particularly highlight the integrated and multidisciplinary work done at eight NIH-funded Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Centers (IDDRC) across the US. Finally, we will outline a path forward with identification of reliable biomarkers and outcome measures, longitudinal preclinical and clinical studies, reproducibility of results across centers as a synergistic effort to decode and treat the pathogenesis of the complex MeCP2 disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michela Fagiolini
- Children's Hospital Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Annarita Patrizi
- Children's Hospital Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jocelyn LeBlanc
- Children's Hospital Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Lee-Way Jin
- UC Davis MIND Institute, University of California, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Izumi Maezawa
- UC Davis MIND Institute, University of California, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Sarah Sinnett
- UNC Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center, University of North Carolina, Gene Therapy Center and Dept. of Ophthalmology, Chapel Hill, NC, USA; Department of Pediatrics, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Steven J Gray
- UNC Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center, University of North Carolina, Gene Therapy Center and Dept. of Ophthalmology, Chapel Hill, NC, USA; Department of Pediatrics, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Sophie Molholm
- The Cognitive Neurophysiology Laboratory, Departments of Pediatrics, Neuroscience, and Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - John J Foxe
- The Cognitive Neurophysiology Laboratory, Ernest J. Del Monte Institute for Neuroscience, Department of Neuroscience, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - Michael V Johnston
- Kennedy Krieger Institute Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center/Hugo Moser Research Institute at Kennedy Krieger and Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, USA
| | - Sakkubai Naidu
- Kennedy Krieger Institute Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center/Hugo Moser Research Institute at Kennedy Krieger and Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, USA
| | - Mary Blue
- Kennedy Krieger Institute Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center/Hugo Moser Research Institute at Kennedy Krieger and Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, USA
| | - Ahamed Hossain
- Kennedy Krieger Institute Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center/Hugo Moser Research Institute at Kennedy Krieger and Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, USA
| | - Shilpa Kadam
- Kennedy Krieger Institute Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center/Hugo Moser Research Institute at Kennedy Krieger and Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, USA
| | - Xinyu Zhao
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Quiang Chang
- Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Zhaolan Zhou
- Department of Genetic, Epigenetic Institute, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Huda Zoghbi
- Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute at Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, USA; Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA; Program in Developmental Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA; Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
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11
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Deutsch SI, Burket JA. An Evolving Therapeutic Rationale for Targeting the α 7 Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptor in Autism Spectrum Disorder. Curr Top Behav Neurosci 2020; 45:167-208. [PMID: 32468495 DOI: 10.1007/7854_2020_136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Abnormalities of cholinergic nuclei, cholinergic projections, and cholinergic receptors, as well as abnormalities of growth factors involved in the maturation and maintenance of cholinergic neurons, have been described in postmortem brains of persons with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Further, microdeletions of the 15q13.3 locus that encompasses CHRNA7, the gene coding the α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (α7 nAChR), are associated with a spectrum of neurodevelopmental disorders, including ASD. The heterozygous 15q13.3 microdeletion syndrome suggests that diminished or impaired transduction of the acetylcholine (ACh) signal by the α7 nAChR can be a pathogenic mechanism of ASD. The α7 nAChR has a role in regulating the firing and function of parvalbumin (PV)-expressing GABAergic projections, which synchronize the oscillatory output of assemblies of pyramidal neurons onto which they project. Synchronous oscillatory output is an electrophysiological substrate for higher executive functions, such as working memory, and functional connectivity between discrete anatomic areas of the brain. The α7 nAChR regulates PV expression and works cooperatively with the co-expressed NMDA receptor in subpopulations of GABAergic interneurons in mouse models of ASD. An evolving literature supports therapeutic exploration of selectively targeted cholinergic interventions for the treatment of ASD, especially compounds that target the α7 nAChR subtype. Importantly, development and availability of high-affinity, brain-penetrable, α7 nAChR-selective agonists, partial agonists, allosteric agonists, and positive allosteric modulators (PAMs) should facilitate "proof-of-principle/concept" clinical trials. nAChRs are pentameric allosteric proteins that function as ligand-gated ion channel receptors constructed from five constituent polypeptide subunits, all of which share a common structural motif. Importantly, in addition to α7 nAChR-gated Ca2+ conductance causing membrane depolarization, there are emerging data consistent with possible metabotropic functions of this ionotropic receptor. The ability of α7-selective type II PAMs to "destabilize" the desensitized state and promote ion channel opening may afford them therapeutic advantages over orthosteric agonists. The current chapter reviews historic and recent literature supporting selective therapeutic targeting of the α7 nAChR in persons affected with ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen I Deutsch
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, USA.
| | - Jessica A Burket
- Department of Molecular Biology and Chemistry, Christopher Newport University, Newport News, VA, USA
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12
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Nishiyama J. Plasticity of dendritic spines: Molecular function and dysfunction in neurodevelopmental disorders. Psychiatry Clin Neurosci 2019; 73:541-550. [PMID: 31215705 DOI: 10.1111/pcn.12899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2018] [Revised: 06/04/2019] [Accepted: 06/06/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Dendritic spines are tiny postsynaptic protrusions from a dendrite that receive most of the excitatory synaptic input in the brain. Functional and structural changes in dendritic spines are critical for synaptic plasticity, a cellular model of learning and memory. Conversely, altered spine morphology and plasticity are common hallmarks of human neurodevelopmental disorders, such as intellectual disability and autism. The advances in molecular and optical techniques have allowed for exploration of dynamic changes in structure and signal transduction at single-spine resolution, providing significant insights into the molecular regulation underlying spine structural plasticity. Here, I review recent findings on: how synaptic stimulation leads to diverse forms of spine structural plasticity; how the associated biochemical signals are initiated and transmitted into neuronal compartments; and how disruption of single genes associated with neurodevelopmental disorders can lead to abnormal spine structure in human and mouse brains. In particular, I discuss the functions of the Ras superfamily of small GTPases in spatiotemporal regulation of the actin cytoskeleton and protein synthesis in dendritic spines. Multiple lines of evidence implicate disrupted Ras signaling pathways in the spine structural abnormalities observed in neurodevelopmental disorders. Both deficient and excessive Ras activities lead to disrupted spine structure and deficits in learning and memory. Dysregulation of spine Ras signaling, therefore, may play a key role in the pathogenesis of multiple neurodevelopmental disorders with distinct etiologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Nishiyama
- Program in Neuroscience and Behavioral Disorders, Duke-National University of Singapore Medical School, Singapore
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13
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Pizzo R, Lamarca A, Sassoè-Pognetto M, Giustetto M. Structural Bases of Atypical Whisker Responses in a Mouse Model of CDKL5 Deficiency Disorder. Neuroscience 2019; 445:130-143. [PMID: 31472213 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2019.08.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2019] [Revised: 08/13/2019] [Accepted: 08/20/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Mutations in the CDKL5 (cyclin-dependent kinase-like 5) gene cause CDKL5 Deficiency Disorder (CDD), a severe neurodevelopmental syndrome where patients exhibit early-onset seizures, intellectual disability, stereotypies, limited or absent speech, autism-like symptoms and sensory impairments. Mounting evidences indicate that disrupted sensory perception and processing represent core signs also in mouse models of CDD; however we have very limited knowledge on their underlying causes. In this study, we investigated how CDKL5 deficiency affects synaptic organization and experience-dependent plasticity in the thalamo-cortical (TC) pathway carrying whisker-related tactile information to the barrel cortex (BC). By using synapse-specific antibodies and confocal microscopy, we found that Cdkl5-KO mice display a lower density of TC synapses in the BC that was paralleled by a reduction of cortico-cortical (CC) connections compared to wild-type mice. These synaptic defects were accompanied by reduced BC activation, as shown by a robust decrease of c-fos immunostaining, and atypical behavioral responses to whisker-mediated tactile stimulation. Notably, a 2-day paradigm of enriched whisker stimulation rescued both number and configuration of excitatory synapses in Cdkl5-KO mice, restored cortical activity and normalized behavioral responses to wild-type mice levels. Our findings disclose a novel and unsuspected role of CDKL5 in controlling the organization and experience-induced modifications of excitatory connections in the BC and indicate how mutations of CDKL5 produce failures in higher-order processing of somatosensory stimuli. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Animal Models of Neurodevelopmental Disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Pizzo
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Turin, Corso Massimo D'Azeglio 52, 10126 Turin, Italy
| | - A Lamarca
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Turin, Corso Massimo D'Azeglio 52, 10126 Turin, Italy
| | - M Sassoè-Pognetto
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Turin, Corso Massimo D'Azeglio 52, 10126 Turin, Italy; National Institute of Neuroscience-Italy, Corso Massimo D'Azeglio 52, 10126 Turin, Italy
| | - M Giustetto
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Turin, Corso Massimo D'Azeglio 52, 10126 Turin, Italy; National Institute of Neuroscience-Italy, Corso Massimo D'Azeglio 52, 10126 Turin, Italy.
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14
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Orefice LL, Mosko JR, Morency DT, Wells MF, Tasnim A, Mozeika SM, Ye M, Chirila AM, Emanuel AJ, Rankin G, Fame RM, Lehtinen MK, Feng G, Ginty DD. Targeting Peripheral Somatosensory Neurons to Improve Tactile-Related Phenotypes in ASD Models. Cell 2019; 178:867-886.e24. [PMID: 31398341 PMCID: PMC6704376 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2019.07.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 135] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2019] [Revised: 05/06/2019] [Accepted: 07/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Somatosensory over-reactivity is common among patients with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) and is hypothesized to contribute to core ASD behaviors. However, effective treatments for sensory over-reactivity and ASDs are lacking. We found distinct somatosensory neuron pathophysiological mechanisms underlie tactile abnormalities in different ASD mouse models and contribute to some ASD-related behaviors. Developmental loss of ASD-associated genes Shank3 or Mecp2 in peripheral mechanosensory neurons leads to region-specific brain abnormalities, revealing links between developmental somatosensory over-reactivity and the genesis of aberrant behaviors. Moreover, acute treatment with a peripherally restricted GABAA receptor agonist that acts directly on mechanosensory neurons reduced tactile over-reactivity in six distinct ASD models. Chronic treatment of Mecp2 and Shank3 mutant mice improved body condition, some brain abnormalities, anxiety-like behaviors, and some social impairments but not memory impairments, motor deficits, or overgrooming. Our findings reveal a potential therapeutic strategy targeting peripheral mechanosensory neurons to treat tactile over-reactivity and select ASD-related behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren L Orefice
- Department of Neurobiology, Harvard Medical School, 220 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard Medical School, 220 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Jacqueline R Mosko
- Department of Neurobiology, Harvard Medical School, 220 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard Medical School, 220 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Danielle T Morency
- Department of Neurobiology, Harvard Medical School, 220 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard Medical School, 220 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Michael F Wells
- McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 43 Vassar Street, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Aniqa Tasnim
- Department of Neurobiology, Harvard Medical School, 220 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard Medical School, 220 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Shawn M Mozeika
- Department of Neurobiology, Harvard Medical School, 220 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard Medical School, 220 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Mengchen Ye
- Department of Neurobiology, Harvard Medical School, 220 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard Medical School, 220 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Anda M Chirila
- Department of Neurobiology, Harvard Medical School, 220 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard Medical School, 220 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Alan J Emanuel
- Department of Neurobiology, Harvard Medical School, 220 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard Medical School, 220 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Genelle Rankin
- Department of Neurobiology, Harvard Medical School, 220 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard Medical School, 220 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Ryann M Fame
- Department of Pathology, Boston Children's Hospital, 300 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Maria K Lehtinen
- Department of Pathology, Boston Children's Hospital, 300 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Guoping Feng
- McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 43 Vassar Street, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - David D Ginty
- Department of Neurobiology, Harvard Medical School, 220 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard Medical School, 220 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
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15
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Ohashi M, Korsakova E, Allen D, Lee P, Fu K, Vargas BS, Cinkornpumin J, Salas C, Park JC, Germanguz I, Langerman J, Chronis C, Kuoy E, Tran S, Xiao X, Pellegrini M, Plath K, Lowry WE. Loss of MECP2 Leads to Activation of P53 and Neuronal Senescence. Stem Cell Reports 2019; 10:1453-1463. [PMID: 29742391 PMCID: PMC5995366 DOI: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2018.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2017] [Revised: 03/30/2018] [Accepted: 04/03/2018] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
To determine the role for mutations of MECP2 in Rett syndrome, we generated isogenic lines of human induced pluripotent stem cells, neural progenitor cells, and neurons from patient fibroblasts with and without MECP2 expression in an attempt to recapitulate disease phenotypes in vitro. Molecular profiling uncovered neuronal-specific gene expression changes, including induction of a senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) program. Patient-derived neurons made without MECP2 showed signs of stress, including induction of P53, and senescence. The induction of P53 appeared to affect dendritic branching in Rett neurons, as P53 inhibition restored dendritic complexity. The induction of P53 targets was also detectable in analyses of human Rett patient brain, suggesting that this disease-in-a-dish model can provide relevant insights into the human disorder. Development of a patient-specific model of human Rett syndrome Loss of function of MECP2 leads to induction of p53 MECP2 null neurons show evidence of cellular senescence Inhibition of p53 can restore dendritic branching in MECP2 null neurons
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Affiliation(s)
- Minori Ohashi
- Department of Molecular Cell and Developmental Biology, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; Eli and Edythe Broad Center for Regenerative Medicine, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Elena Korsakova
- Molecular Biology Institute, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Denise Allen
- Department of Molecular Cell and Developmental Biology, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Peiyee Lee
- Department of Molecular Cell and Developmental Biology, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Kai Fu
- Department of Molecular Cell and Developmental Biology, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Benni S Vargas
- Department of Molecular Cell and Developmental Biology, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Jessica Cinkornpumin
- Department of Molecular Cell and Developmental Biology, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Carlos Salas
- Department of Molecular Cell and Developmental Biology, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Jenny C Park
- Department of Molecular Cell and Developmental Biology, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Igal Germanguz
- Department of Molecular Cell and Developmental Biology, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Justin Langerman
- Department of Biological Chemistry, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | | | - Edward Kuoy
- Department of Biological Chemistry, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Stephen Tran
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Xinshu Xiao
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Matteo Pellegrini
- Department of Molecular Cell and Developmental Biology, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Kathrin Plath
- Department of Biological Chemistry, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; Eli and Edythe Broad Center for Regenerative Medicine, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA.
| | - William E Lowry
- Department of Molecular Cell and Developmental Biology, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; Eli and Edythe Broad Center for Regenerative Medicine, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; Molecular Biology Institute, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA.
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16
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Picard N, Fagiolini M. MeCP2: an epigenetic regulator of critical periods. Curr Opin Neurobiol 2019; 59:95-101. [PMID: 31163286 DOI: 10.1016/j.conb.2019.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2019] [Accepted: 04/10/2019] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Complex adult behaviors arise from the integration of sequential and often overlapping critical periods (CPs) early in life and adolescence. These processes rely on a subtle interplay between the set of genes inherited from the parents, the surrounding environment and epigenetic regulation. Methyl-CpG-binding protein 2 (MeCP2) has been shown to recognize epigenetic states and regulate gene expression by reading methylated DNA. Here, we will review the recent findings revealing the role of MeCP2 during postnatal CPs of development using mouse models of Rett (RTT) syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathalie Picard
- FM Kirby Neurobiology Center, Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 300 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, United States.
| | - Michela Fagiolini
- FM Kirby Neurobiology Center, Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 300 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, United States; International Research Center for Neurointelligence, University of Tokyo Institutes for Advanced Study, Tokyo, 113-0033, Japan.
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17
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Phillips ML, Robinson HA, Pozzo-Miller L. Ventral hippocampal projections to the medial prefrontal cortex regulate social memory. eLife 2019; 8:e44182. [PMID: 31112129 PMCID: PMC6542587 DOI: 10.7554/elife.44182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 114] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2018] [Accepted: 05/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Inputs from the ventral hippocampus (vHIP) to the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) are implicated in several neuropsychiatric disorders. Here, we show that the vHIP-mPFC projection is hyperactive in the Mecp2 knockout mouse model of the autism spectrum disorder Rett syndrome, which has deficits in social memory. Long-term excitation of mPFC-projecting vHIP neurons in wild-type mice impaired social memory, whereas their long-term inhibition in Rett mice rescued social memory deficits. The extent of social memory improvement was negatively correlated with vHIP-evoked responses in mPFC slices, on a mouse-per-mouse basis. Acute manipulations of the vHIP-mPFC projection affected social memory in a region and behavior selective manner, suggesting that proper vHIP-mPFC signaling is necessary to recall social memories. In addition, we identified an altered pattern of vHIP innervation of mPFC neurons, and increased synaptic strength of vHIP inputs onto layer five pyramidal neurons as contributing factors of aberrant vHIP-mPFC signaling in Rett mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary L Phillips
- Department of NeurobiologyThe University of Alabama at BirminghamBirminghamUnited States
| | - Holly Anne Robinson
- Department of NeurobiologyThe University of Alabama at BirminghamBirminghamUnited States
| | - Lucas Pozzo-Miller
- Department of NeurobiologyThe University of Alabama at BirminghamBirminghamUnited States
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18
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Cosentino L, Vigli D, Franchi F, Laviola G, De Filippis B. Rett syndrome before regression: A time window of overlooked opportunities for diagnosis and intervention. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2019; 107:115-135. [PMID: 31108160 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2019.05.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2018] [Revised: 05/10/2019] [Accepted: 05/15/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Rett syndrome (RTT) is a rare neurological disorder primarily affecting females, causing severe cognitive, social, motor and physiological impairments for which no cure currently exists. RTT clinical diagnosis is based on the peculiar progression of the disease, since patients show an apparently normal initial development with a subsequent sudden regression at around 2 years of age. Accumulating evidences are rising doubts regarding the absence of early impairments, hence questioning the concept of regression. We reviewed the published literature addressing the pre-symptomatic stage of the disease in both patients and animal models with a particular focus on behavioral, physiological and brain abnormalities. The emerging picture delineates subtle, but reliable impairments that precede the onset of overt symptoms whose bases are likely set up already during embryogenesis. Some of the outlined alterations appear transient, suggesting compensatory mechanisms to occur in the course of development. There is urgent need for more systematic developmental analyses able to detect early pathological markers to be used as diagnostic tools and precocious targets of time-specific interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Livia Cosentino
- Center for Behavioral Sciences and Mental Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena, 299, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Daniele Vigli
- Center for Behavioral Sciences and Mental Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena, 299, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Franchi
- Center for Behavioral Sciences and Mental Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena, 299, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Giovanni Laviola
- Center for Behavioral Sciences and Mental Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena, 299, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Bianca De Filippis
- Center for Behavioral Sciences and Mental Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena, 299, 00161 Rome, Italy.
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19
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Metabotropic functions of the NMDA receptor and an evolving rationale for exploring NR2A-selective positive allosteric modulators for the treatment of autism spectrum disorder. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2019; 90:142-160. [PMID: 30481555 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2018.11.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2018] [Revised: 11/19/2018] [Accepted: 11/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
NMDA receptors are widely distributed throughout the brain and major therapeutic challenges include targeting specific NMDA receptor subtypes while preserving spatial and temporal specificity during their activation. The NR2A-subunit containing NMDA receptor is implicated in regulating synchronous oscillatory output of cortical pyramidal neurons, which may be disturbed in clinical presentations of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Because NR2A-selective positive allosteric modulators (PAMs) preserve spatial and temporal selectivity while activating this subpopulation of receptors, they represent a promising strategy to address neocortical circuit abnormalities in ASD. In addition to promoting Ca2+ entry and membrane depolarization, diverse metabotropic effects of NMDA receptor activation on signal transduction pathways occur within the cell, some of which depend on alignment of protein binding partners. For example, NMDA receptor agonist interventions attenuate impaired sociability in transgenic mice with 'loss-of-function' mutations of the Shank family of scaffolding proteins, which highlights the necessity of a carefully orchestrated alignment of protein binding partners in the excitatory synapse. The current Review considers metabotropic functions of the NMDA receptor that could play a role in sociability and the pathogenesis of ASD (e.g., mTOR signaling), in addition to its more familiar ionotropic functions, and provides a rationale for therapeutic exploration of NR2A-selective PAMs.
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20
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Loss of Mecp2 Causes Atypical Synaptic and Molecular Plasticity of Parvalbumin-Expressing Interneurons Reflecting Rett Syndrome-Like Sensorimotor Defects. eNeuro 2018; 5:eN-NWR-0086-18. [PMID: 30255129 PMCID: PMC6153339 DOI: 10.1523/eneuro.0086-18.2018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2017] [Revised: 07/27/2018] [Accepted: 08/02/2018] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Rett syndrome (RTT) is caused in most cases by loss-of-function mutations in the X-linked gene encoding methyl CpG-binding protein 2 (MECP2). Understanding the pathological processes impacting sensory-motor control represents a major challenge for clinical management of individuals affected by RTT, but the underlying molecular and neuronal modifications remain unclear. We find that symptomatic male Mecp2 knockout (KO) mice show atypically elevated parvalbumin (PV) expression in both somatosensory (S1) and motor (M1) cortices together with excessive excitatory inputs converging onto PV-expressing interneurons (INs). In accordance, high-speed voltage-sensitive dye imaging shows reduced amplitude and spatial spread of synaptically induced neuronal depolarizations in S1 of Mecp2 KO mice. Moreover, motor learning-dependent changes of PV expression and structural synaptic plasticity typically occurring on PV+ INs in M1 are impaired in symptomatic Mecp2 KO mice. Finally, we find similar abnormalities of PV networks plasticity in symptomatic female Mecp2 heterozygous mice. These results indicate that in Mecp2 mutant mice the configuration of PV+ INs network is shifted toward an atypical plasticity state in relevant cortical areas compatible with the sensory-motor dysfunctions characteristics of RTT.
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21
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Pelkey KA, Chittajallu R, Craig MT, Tricoire L, Wester JC, McBain CJ. Hippocampal GABAergic Inhibitory Interneurons. Physiol Rev 2017; 97:1619-1747. [PMID: 28954853 DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00007.2017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 495] [Impact Index Per Article: 70.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2017] [Revised: 05/16/2017] [Accepted: 05/26/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
In the hippocampus GABAergic local circuit inhibitory interneurons represent only ~10-15% of the total neuronal population; however, their remarkable anatomical and physiological diversity allows them to regulate virtually all aspects of cellular and circuit function. Here we provide an overview of the current state of the field of interneuron research, focusing largely on the hippocampus. We discuss recent advances related to the various cell types, including their development and maturation, expression of subtype-specific voltage- and ligand-gated channels, and their roles in network oscillations. We also discuss recent technological advances and approaches that have permitted high-resolution, subtype-specific examination of their roles in numerous neural circuit disorders and the emerging therapeutic strategies to ameliorate such pathophysiological conditions. The ultimate goal of this review is not only to provide a touchstone for the current state of the field, but to help pave the way for future research by highlighting where gaps in our knowledge exist and how a complete appreciation of their roles will aid in future therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth A Pelkey
- Porter Neuroscience Center, Eunice Kennedy-Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland; Institute of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, University of Exeter Medical School, Hatherly Laboratories, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom; and Sorbonne Universités, UPMC University of Paris, INSERM, CNRS, Neurosciences Paris Seine-Institut de Biologie Paris Seine, Paris, France
| | - Ramesh Chittajallu
- Porter Neuroscience Center, Eunice Kennedy-Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland; Institute of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, University of Exeter Medical School, Hatherly Laboratories, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom; and Sorbonne Universités, UPMC University of Paris, INSERM, CNRS, Neurosciences Paris Seine-Institut de Biologie Paris Seine, Paris, France
| | - Michael T Craig
- Porter Neuroscience Center, Eunice Kennedy-Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland; Institute of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, University of Exeter Medical School, Hatherly Laboratories, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom; and Sorbonne Universités, UPMC University of Paris, INSERM, CNRS, Neurosciences Paris Seine-Institut de Biologie Paris Seine, Paris, France
| | - Ludovic Tricoire
- Porter Neuroscience Center, Eunice Kennedy-Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland; Institute of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, University of Exeter Medical School, Hatherly Laboratories, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom; and Sorbonne Universités, UPMC University of Paris, INSERM, CNRS, Neurosciences Paris Seine-Institut de Biologie Paris Seine, Paris, France
| | - Jason C Wester
- Porter Neuroscience Center, Eunice Kennedy-Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland; Institute of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, University of Exeter Medical School, Hatherly Laboratories, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom; and Sorbonne Universités, UPMC University of Paris, INSERM, CNRS, Neurosciences Paris Seine-Institut de Biologie Paris Seine, Paris, France
| | - Chris J McBain
- Porter Neuroscience Center, Eunice Kennedy-Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland; Institute of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, University of Exeter Medical School, Hatherly Laboratories, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom; and Sorbonne Universités, UPMC University of Paris, INSERM, CNRS, Neurosciences Paris Seine-Institut de Biologie Paris Seine, Paris, France
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22
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Ben-Ari Y. NKCC1 Chloride Importer Antagonists Attenuate Many Neurological and Psychiatric Disorders. Trends Neurosci 2017; 40:536-554. [PMID: 28818303 DOI: 10.1016/j.tins.2017.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 136] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2017] [Revised: 07/03/2017] [Accepted: 07/10/2017] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
In physiological conditions, adult neurons have low intracellular Cl- [(Cl-)I] levels underlying the γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA)ergic inhibitory drive. In contrast, neurons have high (Cl-)I levels and excitatory GABA actions in a wide range of pathological conditions including spinal cord lesions, chronic pain, brain trauma, cerebrovascular infarcts, autism, Rett and Down syndrome, various types of epilepsies, and other genetic or environmental insults. The diuretic highly specific NKCC1 chloride importer antagonist bumetanide (PubChem CID: 2461) efficiently restores low (Cl-)I levels and attenuates many disorders in experimental conditions and in some clinical trials. Here, I review the mechanisms of action, therapeutic effects, promises, and pitfalls of bumetanide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yehezkel Ben-Ari
- New INMED, Aix-Marseille University, Campus Scientifique de Luminy, Marseilles, France.
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23
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Kántor O, Varga A, Nitschke R, Naumann A, Énzsöly A, Lukáts Á, Szabó A, Németh J, Völgyi B. Bipolar cell gap junctions serve major signaling pathways in the human retina. Brain Struct Funct 2017; 222:2603-2624. [PMID: 28070649 DOI: 10.1007/s00429-016-1360-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2016] [Accepted: 12/22/2016] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Connexin36 (Cx36) constituent gap junctions (GJ) throughout the brain connect neurons into functional syncytia. In the retina they underlie the transmission, averaging and correlation of signals prior conveying visual information to the brain. This is the first study that describes retinal bipolar cell (BC) GJs in the human inner retina, whose function is enigmatic even in the examined animal models. Furthermore, a number of unique features (e.g. fovea, trichromacy, midget system) necessitate a reexamination of the animal model results in the human retina. Well-preserved postmortem human samples of this study are allowed to identify Cx36 expressing BCs neurochemically. Results reveal that both rod and cone pathway interneurons display strong Cx36 expression. Rod BC inputs to AII amacrine cells (AC) appear in juxtaposition to AII GJs, thus suggesting a strategic AII cell targeting by rod BCs. Cone BCs serving midget, parasol or koniocellular signaling pathways display a wealth of Cx36 expression to form homologously coupled arrays. In addition, they also establish heterologous GJ contacts to serve an exchange of information between parallel signaling streams. Interestingly, a prominent Cx36 expression was exhibited by midget system BCs that appear to maintain intimate contacts with bistratified BCs serving other pathways. These findings suggest that BC GJs in parallel signaling streams serve both an intra- and inter-pathway exchange of signals in the human retina.
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Affiliation(s)
- Orsolya Kántor
- Department of Neuroanatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Institute for Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Freiburg, 79104, Freiburg, Germany
- MTA-PTE NAP B Retinal Electrical Synapses Research Group, Pécs, 7624, Hungary
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, 1094, Hungary
| | - Alexandra Varga
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, 1094, Hungary
| | - Roland Nitschke
- Life Imaging Center, Center for Biological Systems Analysis, University of Freiburg, 79104, Freiburg, Germany
- BIOSS Centre for Biological Signaling Studies, University of Freiburg, 79104, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Angela Naumann
- Life Imaging Center, Center for Biological Systems Analysis, University of Freiburg, 79104, Freiburg, Germany
- BIOSS Centre for Biological Signaling Studies, University of Freiburg, 79104, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Anna Énzsöly
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, 1094, Hungary
- Department of Ophthalmology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, 1085, Hungary
| | - Ákos Lukáts
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, 1094, Hungary
| | - Arnold Szabó
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, 1094, Hungary
| | - János Németh
- Department of Ophthalmology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, 1085, Hungary
| | - Béla Völgyi
- MTA-PTE NAP B Retinal Electrical Synapses Research Group, Pécs, 7624, Hungary.
- Department of Experimental Zoology and Neurobiology, University of Pécs, Pécs, 7624, Hungary.
- János Szentágothai Research Center, University of Pécs, Ifjúság street 20, Pécs, 7624, Hungary.
- Department of Ophthalmology, New York University Langone Medical Center, New York, NY, 10016, USA.
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24
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Steullet P, Cabungcal JH, Coyle J, Didriksen M, Gill K, Grace AA, Hensch TK, LaMantia AS, Lindemann L, Maynard TM, Meyer U, Morishita H, O'Donnell P, Puhl M, Cuenod M, Do KQ. Oxidative stress-driven parvalbumin interneuron impairment as a common mechanism in models of schizophrenia. Mol Psychiatry 2017; 22:936-943. [PMID: 28322275 PMCID: PMC5491690 DOI: 10.1038/mp.2017.47] [Citation(s) in RCA: 234] [Impact Index Per Article: 33.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2016] [Revised: 12/21/2016] [Accepted: 01/17/2017] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Parvalbumin inhibitory interneurons (PVIs) are crucial for maintaining proper excitatory/inhibitory balance and high-frequency neuronal synchronization. Their activity supports critical developmental trajectories, sensory and cognitive processing, and social behavior. Despite heterogeneity in the etiology across schizophrenia and autism spectrum disorder, PVI circuits are altered in these psychiatric disorders. Identifying mechanism(s) underlying PVI deficits is essential to establish treatments targeting in particular cognition. On the basis of published and new data, we propose oxidative stress as a common pathological mechanism leading to PVI impairment in schizophrenia and some forms of autism. A series of animal models carrying genetic and/or environmental risks relevant to diverse etiological aspects of these disorders show PVI deficits to be all accompanied by oxidative stress in the anterior cingulate cortex. Specifically, oxidative stress is negatively correlated with the integrity of PVIs and the extracellular perineuronal net enwrapping these interneurons. Oxidative stress may result from dysregulation of systems typically affected in schizophrenia, including glutamatergic, dopaminergic, immune and antioxidant signaling. As convergent end point, redox dysregulation has successfully been targeted to protect PVIs with antioxidants/redox regulators across several animal models. This opens up new perspectives for the use of antioxidant treatments to be applied to at-risk individuals, in close temporal proximity to environmental impacts known to induce oxidative stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Steullet
- Centre for Psychiatric Neuroscience, Department of Psychiatry, Lausanne University Hospital, Prilly-Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - J-H Cabungcal
- Centre for Psychiatric Neuroscience, Department of Psychiatry, Lausanne University Hospital, Prilly-Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - J Coyle
- Laboratory for Psychiatric and Molecular Neuroscience, Harvard Medical School, McLean Hospital, Belmont, MA, USA
| | - M Didriksen
- Synaptic transmission H. Lundbeck A/S, Valby, Denmark
| | - K Gill
- Departments of Neuroscience, Psychiatry and Psychology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - A A Grace
- Departments of Neuroscience, Psychiatry and Psychology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - T K Hensch
- Center for Brain Science, Department of Molecular Cellular Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA USA
- FM Kirby Neurobiology Center, Department of Neurology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - A-S LaMantia
- George Washington Institute for Neuroscience, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - L Lindemann
- F. Hoffmann-La Roche, Roche Pharmaceutical and Early Development, Neuroscience, Opthalmology & Rare Disease (NORD) DTA, Discovery Neuroscience, Roche Innovation Center Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - T M Maynard
- George Washington Institute for Neuroscience, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - U Meyer
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zurich-Vetsuisse, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - H Morishita
- Center for Brain Science, Department of Molecular Cellular Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA USA
- FM Kirby Neurobiology Center, Department of Neurology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Neuroscience, and Ophthalmology, Friedman Brain Institute, Mindich Child Health and Development Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, NY, USA
| | - P O'Donnell
- Neuroscience and Pain Research Unit, BioTherapeutics Research and Development, Pfizer, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - M Puhl
- Laboratory for Psychiatric and Molecular Neuroscience, Harvard Medical School, McLean Hospital, Belmont, MA, USA
| | - M Cuenod
- Centre for Psychiatric Neuroscience, Department of Psychiatry, Lausanne University Hospital, Prilly-Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - K Q Do
- Centre for Psychiatric Neuroscience, Department of Psychiatry, Lausanne University Hospital, Prilly-Lausanne, Switzerland
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25
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Sugarcoated Perineuronal Nets Regulate “GABAergic” Transmission: Bittersweet Hypothesis in Autism Spectrum Disorder. Clin Neuropharmacol 2017; 40:120-130. [DOI: 10.1097/wnf.0000000000000209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
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26
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Hashemi E, Ariza J, Rogers H, Noctor SC, Martínez-Cerdeño V. The Number of Parvalbumin-Expressing Interneurons Is Decreased in the Prefrontal Cortex in Autism. Cereb Cortex 2017; 27:1931-1943. [PMID: 26922658 PMCID: PMC6074948 DOI: 10.1093/cercor/bhw021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 160] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The cognitive phenotype of autism has been correlated with an altered balance of excitation to inhibition in the cerebral cortex, which could result from a change in the number, function, or morphology of GABA-expressing interneurons. The number of GABAergic interneuron subtypes has not been quantified in the autistic cerebral cortex. We classified interneurons into 3 subpopulations based on expression of the calcium-binding proteins parvalbumin, calbindin, or calretinin. We quantified the number of each interneuron subtype in postmortem neocortical tissue from 11 autistic cases and 10 control cases. Prefrontal Brodmann Areas (BA) BA46, BA47, and BA9 in autism and age-matched controls were analyzed by blinded researchers. We show that the number of parvalbumin+ interneurons in these 3 cortical areas-BA46, BA47, and BA9-is significantly reduced in autism compared with controls. The number of calbindin+ and calretinin+ interneurons did not differ in the cortical areas examined. Parvalbumin+ interneurons are fast-spiking cells that synchronize the activity of pyramidal cells through perisomatic and axo-axonic inhibition. The reduced number of parvalbumin+ interneurons could disrupt the balance of excitation/inhibition and alter gamma wave oscillations in the cerebral cortex of autistic subjects. These data will allow development of novel treatments specifically targeting parvalbumin interneurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ezzat Hashemi
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine
- Institute for Pediatric Regenerative Medicine and Shriners Hospitals for Children Northern California, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Jeanelle Ariza
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine
- Institute for Pediatric Regenerative Medicine and Shriners Hospitals for Children Northern California, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Haille Rogers
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine
- Institute for Pediatric Regenerative Medicine and Shriners Hospitals for Children Northern California, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Stephen C. Noctor
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, UC Davis, Sacramento, CA, USA
- MIND Institute, UC Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Verónica Martínez-Cerdeño
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine
- Institute for Pediatric Regenerative Medicine and Shriners Hospitals for Children Northern California, Sacramento, CA, USA
- MIND Institute, UC Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA, USA
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27
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De Giorgio A. The roles of motor activity and environmental enrichment in intellectual disability. Somatosens Mot Res 2017; 34:34-43. [PMID: 28140743 DOI: 10.1080/08990220.2016.1278204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
In people with intellectual disabilities, an enriched environment can stimulate the acquisition of motor skills and could partially repair neuronal impairment thanks to exploration and motor activity. A deficit in environmental and motor stimulation leads to low scores in intelligence tests and can cause serious motor skill problems. Although studies in humans do not give much evidence for explaining basic mechanisms of intellectual disability and for highlighting improvements due to enriched environmental stimulation, animal models have been valuable in the investigation of these conditions. Here, we discuss the role of environmental enrichment in four intellectual disabilities: Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD), Down, Rett, and Fragile X syndromes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea De Giorgio
- a Department of Psychology , eCampus University , Novedrate , Italy.,b Department of Psychology , Universita Cattolica del Sacro Cuore , Milano , Italy
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28
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Pizzo R, Gurgone A, Castroflorio E, Amendola E, Gross C, Sassoè-Pognetto M, Giustetto M. Lack of Cdkl5 Disrupts the Organization of Excitatory and Inhibitory Synapses and Parvalbumin Interneurons in the Primary Visual Cortex. Front Cell Neurosci 2016; 10:261. [PMID: 27965538 PMCID: PMC5124713 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2016.00261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2016] [Accepted: 10/26/2016] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Cyclin-dependent kinase-like 5 (CDKL5) mutations are found in severe neurodevelopmental disorders, including the Hanefeld variant of Rett syndrome (RTT; CDKL5 disorder). CDKL5 loss-of-function murine models recapitulate pathological signs of the human disease, such as visual attention deficits and reduced visual acuity. Here we investigated the cellular and synaptic substrates of visual defects by studying the organization of the primary visual cortex (V1) of Cdkl5−/y mice. We found a severe reduction of c-Fos expression in V1 of Cdkl5−/y mutants, suggesting circuit hypoactivity. Glutamatergic presynaptic structures were increased, but postsynaptic PSD-95 and Homer were significantly downregulated in CDKL5 mutants. Interneurons expressing parvalbumin, but not other types of interneuron, had a higher density in mutant V1, and were hyperconnected with pyramidal neurons. Finally, the developmental trajectory of pavalbumin-containing cells was also affected in Cdkl5−/y mice, as revealed by fainter appearance perineuronal nets at the closure of the critical period (CP). The present data reveal an overall disruption of V1 cellular and synaptic organization that may cause a shift in the excitation/inhibition balance likely to underlie the visual deficits characteristic of CDKL5 disorder. Moreover, ablation of CDKL5 is likely to tamper with the mechanisms underlying experience-dependent refinement of cortical circuits during the CP of development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riccardo Pizzo
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Turin Turin, Italy
| | - Antonia Gurgone
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Turin Turin, Italy
| | | | - Elena Amendola
- Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, University of Naples "Federico II" Napoli, Italy
| | - Cornelius Gross
- Mouse Biology Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL) Monterotondo, Italy
| | - Marco Sassoè-Pognetto
- Department of Neuroscience, University of TurinTurin, Italy; National Institute of Neuroscience-ItalyTurin, Italy
| | - Maurizio Giustetto
- Department of Neuroscience, University of TurinTurin, Italy; National Institute of Neuroscience-ItalyTurin, Italy
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29
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Reemst K, Noctor SC, Lucassen PJ, Hol EM. The Indispensable Roles of Microglia and Astrocytes during Brain Development. Front Hum Neurosci 2016; 10:566. [PMID: 27877121 PMCID: PMC5099170 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2016.00566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 344] [Impact Index Per Article: 43.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2016] [Accepted: 10/25/2016] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Glia are essential for brain functioning during development and in the adult brain. Here, we discuss the various roles of both microglia and astrocytes, and their interactions during brain development. Although both cells are fundamentally different in origin and function, they often affect the same developmental processes such as neuro-/gliogenesis, angiogenesis, axonal outgrowth, synaptogenesis and synaptic pruning. Due to their important instructive roles in these processes, dysfunction of microglia or astrocytes during brain development could contribute to neurodevelopmental disorders and potentially even late-onset neuropathology. A better understanding of the origin, differentiation process and developmental functions of microglia and astrocytes will help to fully appreciate their role both in the developing as well as in the adult brain, in health and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kitty Reemst
- Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, University of AmsterdamAmsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Stephen C. Noctor
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, UC Davis MIND InstituteSacramento, CA, USA
| | - Paul J. Lucassen
- Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, University of AmsterdamAmsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Elly M. Hol
- Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, University of AmsterdamAmsterdam, Netherlands
- Translational Neuroscience, Brain Center Rudolf Magnus, University Medical Center UtrechtUtrecht, Netherlands
- Netherlands Institute for NeuroscienceAmsterdam, Netherlands
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30
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Lim Z, Downs J, Wong K, Ellaway C, Leonard H. Expanding the clinical picture of the MECP2 Duplication syndrome. Clin Genet 2016; 91:557-563. [PMID: 27247049 DOI: 10.1111/cge.12814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2016] [Revised: 05/26/2016] [Accepted: 05/27/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Individuals with two or more copies of the MECP2 gene, located at Xq28, share clinical features and a distinct facial phenotype known as MECP2 Duplication syndrome. We have examined perinatal characteristics, early childhood development and medical co-morbidities in this disorder. The International Rett Syndrome Phenotype Database (InterRett), which collects information from caregivers and clinicians on individuals with Rett syndrome and MECP2 associated disorders, was used as the data source. Data were available on 56 cases (49 males and 7 females) with MECP2 Duplication syndrome. Median age at ascertainment was 7.9 years (range: 1.2-37.6 years) and at diagnosis 3.0 years (range: 3 weeks-37 years). Less than a third (29%) learned to walk. Speech deterioration was reported in 34% and only 20% used word approximations or better at ascertainment. Over half (55%) had been hospitalised for respiratory infections in the first 2 years of life. Just under half (44%) had seizures, occurring daily in nearly half of this group. The majority (89%) had gastrointestinal problems and a third had a gastrostomy. Following the recent demonstration of phenotype reversal in a mouse model of MECP2 Duplication, a clear understanding of the natural history is crucial to the design and implementation of future therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Z Lim
- Telethon Kids Institute, University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
| | - J Downs
- Telethon Kids Institute, University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia.,School of Physiotherapy and Exercise Science, Curtin University, Perth, Australia
| | - K Wong
- Telethon Kids Institute, University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
| | - C Ellaway
- Discipline of Genetic Medicine, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia.,Discipline of Child and Adolescent Health, The University of Sydney, The Children's Hospital at Westmead, Sydney, Australia.,Western Sydney Genetic Program, Sydney Children's Hospitals Network (Westmead), Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - H Leonard
- Telethon Kids Institute, University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
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31
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Boggio E, Pancrazi L, Gennaro M, Lo Rizzo C, Mari F, Meloni I, Ariani F, Panighini A, Novelli E, Biagioni M, Strettoi E, Hayek J, Rufa A, Pizzorusso T, Renieri A, Costa M. Visual impairment in FOXG1-mutated individuals and mice. Neuroscience 2016; 324:496-508. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2016.03.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2015] [Revised: 03/01/2016] [Accepted: 03/08/2016] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
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Cell-Specific Regulation of N-Methyl-D-Aspartate Receptor Maturation by Mecp2 in Cortical Circuits. Biol Psychiatry 2016; 79:746-754. [PMID: 26185009 PMCID: PMC4670611 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2015.05.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2014] [Revised: 04/29/2015] [Accepted: 05/20/2015] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Early postnatal experience shapes N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) subunit composition and kinetics at excitatory synapses onto pyramidal cells; however, little is known about NMDAR maturation onto inhibitory interneurons. METHODS We combined whole-cell patch clamp recordings (n = 440) of NMDAR-mediated currents from layer-4-to-layer-2/3 synapses onto pyramidal and green fluorescent protein labeled parvalbumin-positive (PV) interneurons in visual cortex at three developmental ages (15, 30, and 45 postnatal days) with array tomography three-dimensional reconstructions of NMDAR subunits GluN2A- and GluN2B-positive synapses onto PV cells. RESULTS We show that the trajectory of the NMDAR subunit switch is slower in PV interneurons than in excitatory pyramidal cells in visual cortex. Notably, this differential time course is reversed in the absence of methyl-CpG-binding protein, MECP2, the molecular basis for cognitive decline in Rett syndrome and some cases of autism. Additional genetic reduction of GluN2A subunits, which prevents regression of vision in Mecp2-knockout mice, specifically rescues the accelerated NMDAR maturation in PV cells. CONCLUSIONS We demonstrate 1) the time course of NMDAR maturation is cell-type specific, and 2) a new cell-type specific role for Mecp2 in the development of NMDAR subunit composition. Reducing GluN2A expression in Mecp2-knockout mice, which prevents the decline in visual cortical function, also prevents the premature NMDAR maturation in PV cells. Thus, circuit-based therapies targeting NMDAR subunit composition on PV cells may provide novel treatments for Rett syndrome.
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33
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Patrizi A, Picard N, Simon AJ, Gunner G, Centofante E, Andrews NA, Fagiolini M. Chronic Administration of the N-Methyl-D-Aspartate Receptor Antagonist Ketamine Improves Rett Syndrome Phenotype. Biol Psychiatry 2016; 79:755-764. [PMID: 26410354 PMCID: PMC7410367 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2015.08.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2015] [Revised: 08/13/2015] [Accepted: 08/13/2015] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rett syndrome (RTT) is a neurological disorder caused by mutation of the X-linked MECP2 gene, which results in the progressive disruption of excitatory and inhibitory neuronal circuits. To date, there is no effective treatment available for the disorder. Studies conducted in RTT patients and murine models have shown altered expression of N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors (NMDARs). Genetic deletion of the NMDAR subunit, GluN2A, in mice lacking Mecp2 is sufficient to prevent RTT phenotypes, including regression of vision. METHODS We performed a systematic, randomized preclinical trial of chronic administration of low-dose (8 mg/kg, intraperitoneal) ketamine, an NMDAR antagonist, starting either early in development or at the onset of RTT phenotype in Mecp2-null mice. RESULTS Daily exposure to ketamine ameliorated RTT symptoms and extended the life span of treated Mecp2-null mice without adverse side effects. Furthermore, significant improvement was observed in cortical processing and connectivity, which were fully restored to a wild-type level, particularly when treatment was started at the onset of regression. CONCLUSIONS Our findings provide strong evidence that targeting NMDA receptors can be a safe and effective treatment for RTT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annarita Patrizi
- F.M. Kirby Neurobiology Center, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Nathalie Picard
- F.M. Kirby Neurobiology Center, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Alex Joseph Simon
- F.M. Kirby Neurobiology Center, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Georgia Gunner
- F.M. Kirby Neurobiology Center, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Eleonora Centofante
- F.M. Kirby Neurobiology Center, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Nick Arthur Andrews
- F.M. Kirby Neurobiology Center, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Michela Fagiolini
- F.M. Kirby Neurobiology Center, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts.
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34
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Hanics J, Teleki G, Alpár A, Székely AD, Csillag A. Multiple amygdaloid divisions of arcopallium send convergent projections to the nucleus accumbens and neighboring subpallial amygdala regions in the domestic chicken: a selective pathway tracing and reconstruction study. Brain Struct Funct 2016; 222:301-315. [PMID: 27053075 PMCID: PMC5225175 DOI: 10.1007/s00429-016-1219-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2015] [Accepted: 03/24/2016] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Retrograde tracing with choleratoxin B, injected into the nucleus accumbens (Ac) and bed nucleus of stria terminalis, lateral part (BSTL), yielded labeled perikarya in a ring-shaped area of arcopallium, including dorsal and hilar subdivisions, with a wedge-shaped node of dense accumulation in the amygdalopiriform area (APir). Also, the position of source neurons for this arcopallio-subpallial pathway was verified by anterograde tracing. Three subregions of arcopallium (amygdalopiriform, dorsal, hilar) were injected with dextran (10 kDa), and fibers and terminal fields were detected in Ac, BSTL and extended amygdala (EA). Most abundant projections to Ac arose from APir. The study enabled precise description of the main output fiber streams: the dorsal stream follows the dorsal border of arcopallium and, continuing in the ventral amygdalofugal tract, it traverses the EA and the BSTL before reaching the Ac. The ventral stream of fibers enters the EA along the ventral subpallial border and terminates in the basal nucleus and ventral pallidum. The course of the pathway was reconstructed in 3D. Retrogradely labeled arcopallial neurons were devoid of DARPP-32. DARPP-32 was present in the Ac but not the BSTL. No colocalization between the calcium binding proteins calbindin, parvalbumin and calretinin, and retrogradely labeled neurons was detected, despite a considerable territorial overlap. This finding further supports the excitatory nature of the arcopallial-accumbens pathway. Conjoint and convergent amygdalar input to EA, including BSTL, as well as to Ac subregions likely transmits fear and aggression related signals to both viscerolimbic (EA) and learned reward- and motivation-related (Ac) ventrobasal forebrain regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- János Hanics
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, 58. Tuzolto utca, 1094, Budapest, Hungary.,MTA-SE NAP B Research Group of Experimental Neuroanatomy and Developmental Biology, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Gyöngyi Teleki
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, 58. Tuzolto utca, 1094, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Alán Alpár
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, 58. Tuzolto utca, 1094, Budapest, Hungary.,MTA-SE NAP B Research Group of Experimental Neuroanatomy and Developmental Biology, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Andrea D Székely
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, 58. Tuzolto utca, 1094, Budapest, Hungary
| | - András Csillag
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Semmelweis University, 58. Tuzolto utca, 1094, Budapest, Hungary.
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Vacca M, Tripathi KP, Speranza L, Aiese Cigliano R, Scalabrì F, Marracino F, Madonna M, Sanseverino W, Perrone-Capano C, Guarracino MR, D'Esposito M. Effects of Mecp2 loss of function in embryonic cortical neurons: a bioinformatics strategy to sort out non-neuronal cells variability from transcriptome profiling. BMC Bioinformatics 2016; 17 Suppl 2:14. [PMID: 26821710 PMCID: PMC4959389 DOI: 10.1186/s12859-015-0859-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Mecp2 null mice model Rett syndrome (RTT) a human neurological disorder affecting females after apparent normal pre- and peri-natal developmental periods. Neuroanatomical studies in cerebral cortex of RTT mouse models revealed delayed maturation of neuronal morphology and autonomous as well as non-cell autonomous reduction in dendritic complexity of postnatal cortical neurons. However, both morphometric parameters and high-resolution expression profile of cortical neurons at embryonic developmental stage have not yet been studied. Here we address these topics by using embryonic neuronal primary cultures from Mecp2 loss of function mouse model. Results We show that embryonic primary cortical neurons of Mecp2 null mice display reduced neurite complexity possibly reflecting transcriptional changes. We used RNA-sequencing coupled with a bioinformatics comparative approach to identify and remove the contribution of variable and hard to quantify non-neuronal brain cells present in our in vitro cell cultures. Conclusions Our results support the need to investigate both Mecp2 morphological as well as molecular effect in neurons since prenatal developmental stage, long time before onset of Rett symptoms. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12859-015-0859-7) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcella Vacca
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics "A. Buzzati Traverso", National Research Council (CNR)-80131, Naples, Italy.
| | - Kumar Parijat Tripathi
- Laboratory for Genomics, Transcriptomics and Proteomics (LAB-GTP), High Performance Computing and Networking Institute (ICAR), National Research Council (CNR)-80131, Naples, Italy.
| | - Luisa Speranza
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics "A. Buzzati Traverso", National Research Council (CNR)-80131, Naples, Italy.
| | | | | | | | | | - Walter Sanseverino
- Sequentia Biotech SL, Calle Comte D'Urgell, 240 08036, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Carla Perrone-Capano
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics "A. Buzzati Traverso", National Research Council (CNR)-80131, Naples, Italy. .,Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy.
| | - Mario Rosario Guarracino
- Laboratory for Genomics, Transcriptomics and Proteomics (LAB-GTP), High Performance Computing and Networking Institute (ICAR), National Research Council (CNR)-80131, Naples, Italy.
| | - Maurizio D'Esposito
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics "A. Buzzati Traverso", National Research Council (CNR)-80131, Naples, Italy. .,IRCCS Neuromed, via dell'Elettronica, Pozzilli (Is), Italy.
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Abstract
Intellectual disability, autism spectrum disorder, and epilepsy are prime examples of neurodevelopmental disorders that collectively affect a significant percentage of the world population. Recent technological breakthroughs allowed the elucidation of the genetic causes of many of these disorders. As neurodevelopmental disorders are genetically heterogeneous, the development of rational therapy is extremely challenging. Fortunately, many causative genes are interconnected and cluster in specific cellular pathways. Targeting a common node in such a network would allow us to interfere with a series of related neurodevelopmental disorders at once. Here, we argue that the GABAergic system is disturbed in many neurodevelopmental disorders, including fragile X syndrome, Rett syndrome, and Dravet syndrome, and is a key candidate target for therapeutic intervention. Many drugs that modulate the GABAergic system have already been tested in animal models with encouraging outcomes and are readily available for clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sien Braat
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of Antwerp, Prins Boudewijnlaan 43, 2650 Edegem, Belgium
| | - R Frank Kooy
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of Antwerp, Prins Boudewijnlaan 43, 2650 Edegem, Belgium.
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37
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Takano T. Interneuron Dysfunction in Syndromic Autism: Recent Advances. Dev Neurosci 2015; 37:467-75. [PMID: 26183392 DOI: 10.1159/000434638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2014] [Accepted: 05/27/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism is an extremely heterogeneous disorder, but its frequent cooccurrence with epilepsy leads to speculation that there may be common mechanisms associated with these disorders. Inhibitory interneurons are considered to be the main cellular elements that control hyperexcitability in the brain, and interneuron dysfunction can cause pathological hyperexcitability linked to seizure susceptibility or epilepsy. This review summarizes some of the recent advances that support the relationship between interneuron dysfunction and cognitive impairment in human syndromic autism, with particular reference to the pathophysiological findings of murine experimental models of autism. Alterations in x03B3;-aminobutyric acid (GABA)ergic circuits include a wide variety of neurobiological dysfunctions and do not simply involve the loss or gain of any given type of inhibitory mechanism. The characteristics of interneuron dysfunction in each murine model of autism differ for each syndrome, and these diversities may be due to differences in genetic backgrounds or some other currently unknown variances. Future studies should give us a greater understanding of the involvement of different classes of GABAergic interneurons and allow us to define the relationship between the precise pathophysiological mechanisms and the corresponding clinical phenotypes in autism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomoyuki Takano
- Department of Pediatrics, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu, Japan
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