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John SR, Phillips RS, Rubin JE. A novel mechanism for ramping bursts based on slow negative feedback in model respiratory neurons. CHAOS (WOODBURY, N.Y.) 2024; 34:063131. [PMID: 38865093 PMCID: PMC11191356 DOI: 10.1063/5.0201472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 05/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024]
Abstract
Recordings from pre-Bötzinger complex neurons responsible for the inspiratory phase of the respiratory rhythm reveal a ramping burst pattern, starting around the time that the transition from expiration to inspiration begins, in which the spike rate gradually rises until a transition into a high-frequency burst occurs. The spike rate increase along the burst is accompanied by a gradual depolarization of the plateau potential that underlies the spikes. These effects may be functionally important for inducing the onset of inspiration and hence maintaining effective respiration; however, most mathematical models for inspiratory bursting do not capture this activity pattern. Here, we study how the modulation of spike height and afterhyperpolarization via the slow inactivation of an inward current can support various activity patterns including ramping bursts. We use dynamical systems methods designed for multiple timescale systems, such as bifurcation analysis based on timescale decomposition and averaging over fast oscillations, to generate an understanding of and predictions about the specific dynamic effects that lead to ramping bursts. We also analyze how transitions between ramping and other activity patterns may occur with parameter changes, which could be associated with experimental manipulations, environmental conditions, and/or development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sushmita R. John
- Department of Mathematics, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15260, USA
| | - Ryan S. Phillips
- Seattle Children’s Research Institute, Seattle, Washington 98109, USA
| | - Jonathan E. Rubin
- Department of Mathematics, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15260, USA
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2
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Borrus DS, Stettler MK, Grover CJ, Kalajian EJ, Gu J, Conradi Smith GD, Del Negro CA. Inspiratory and sigh breathing rhythms depend on distinct cellular signalling mechanisms in the preBötzinger complex. J Physiol 2024; 602:809-834. [PMID: 38353596 PMCID: PMC10940220 DOI: 10.1113/jp285582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 02/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Breathing behaviour involves the generation of normal breaths (eupnoea) on a timescale of seconds and sigh breaths on the order of minutes. Both rhythms emerge in tandem from a single brainstem site, but whether and how a single cell population can generate two disparate rhythms remains unclear. We posit that recurrent synaptic excitation in concert with synaptic depression and cellular refractoriness gives rise to the eupnoea rhythm, whereas an intracellular calcium oscillation that is slower by orders of magnitude gives rise to the sigh rhythm. A mathematical model capturing these dynamics simultaneously generates eupnoea and sigh rhythms with disparate frequencies, which can be separately regulated by physiological parameters. We experimentally validated key model predictions regarding intracellular calcium signalling. All vertebrate brains feature a network oscillator that drives the breathing pump for regular respiration. However, in air-breathing mammals with compliant lungs susceptible to collapse, the breathing rhythmogenic network may have refashioned ubiquitous intracellular signalling systems to produce a second slower rhythm (for sighs) that prevents atelectasis without impeding eupnoea. KEY POINTS: A simplified activity-based model of the preBötC generates inspiratory and sigh rhythms from a single neuron population. Inspiration is attributable to a canonical excitatory network oscillator mechanism. Sigh emerges from intracellular calcium signalling. The model predicts that perturbations of calcium uptake and release across the endoplasmic reticulum counterintuitively accelerate and decelerate sigh rhythmicity, respectively, which was experimentally validated. Vertebrate evolution may have adapted existing intracellular signalling mechanisms to produce slow oscillations needed to optimize pulmonary function in mammals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel S. Borrus
- Applied Science and Neuroscience, William & Mary, Williamsburg, VA 23185
| | - Marco K. Stettler
- Applied Science and Neuroscience, William & Mary, Williamsburg, VA 23185
| | - Cameron J. Grover
- Applied Science and Neuroscience, William & Mary, Williamsburg, VA 23185
| | - Eva J. Kalajian
- Applied Science and Neuroscience, William & Mary, Williamsburg, VA 23185
| | - Jeffrey Gu
- Applied Science and Neuroscience, William & Mary, Williamsburg, VA 23185
| | - Gregory D. Conradi Smith
- Applied Science and Neuroscience, William & Mary, Williamsburg, VA 23185
- Conradi Smith and Del Negro contributed equally
| | - Christopher A. Del Negro
- Applied Science and Neuroscience, William & Mary, Williamsburg, VA 23185
- Conradi Smith and Del Negro contributed equally
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3
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David CK, Sugimura YK, Kallurkar PS, Picardo MCD, Saha MS, Conradi Smith GD, Del Negro CA. Single cell transcriptome sequencing of inspiratory neurons of the preBötzinger complex in neonatal mice. Sci Data 2022; 9:457. [PMID: 35907922 PMCID: PMC9338969 DOI: 10.1038/s41597-022-01569-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurons in the brainstem preBötzinger complex (preBötC) generate the rhythm and rudimentary motor pattern for inspiratory breathing movements. We performed whole-cell patch-clamp recordings from inspiratory neurons in the preBötC of neonatal mouse slices that retain breathing-related rhythmicity in vitro. We classified neurons based on their electrophysiological properties and genetic background, and then aspirated their cellular contents for single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq). This data set provides the raw nucleotide sequences (FASTQ files) and annotated files of nucleotide sequences mapped to the mouse genome (mm10 from Ensembl), which includes the fragment counts, gene lengths, and fragments per kilobase of transcript per million mapped reads (FPKM). These data reflect the transcriptomes of the neurons that generate the rhythm and pattern for inspiratory breathing movements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline K David
- Department of Applied Science, William & Mary, 540 Landrum Drive, Williamsburg, Virginia, 23185, USA
| | - Yae K Sugimura
- Department of Neuroscience, Jikei University School of Medicine, 3-25-8 Nishi-shimbashi, Minato, Tokyo, 105-8461, Japan
| | - Prajkta S Kallurkar
- Department of Applied Science, William & Mary, 540 Landrum Drive, Williamsburg, Virginia, 23185, USA
| | - Maria Cristina D Picardo
- Department of Applied Science, William & Mary, 540 Landrum Drive, Williamsburg, Virginia, 23185, USA
| | - Margaret S Saha
- Department of Biology, William & Mary, 540 Landrum Drive, Williamsburg, Virginia, 23185, USA
| | - Gregory D Conradi Smith
- Department of Applied Science, William & Mary, 540 Landrum Drive, Williamsburg, Virginia, 23185, USA
| | - Christopher A Del Negro
- Department of Applied Science, William & Mary, 540 Landrum Drive, Williamsburg, Virginia, 23185, USA.
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Phillips RS, Koizumi H, Molkov YI, Rubin JE, Smith JC. Predictions and experimental tests of a new biophysical model of the mammalian respiratory oscillator. eLife 2022; 11:74762. [PMID: 35796425 PMCID: PMC9262387 DOI: 10.7554/elife.74762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Previously our computational modeling studies (Phillips et al., 2019) proposed that neuronal persistent sodium current (INaP) and calcium-activated non-selective cation current (ICAN) are key biophysical factors that, respectively, generate inspiratory rhythm and burst pattern in the mammalian preBötzinger complex (preBötC) respiratory oscillator isolated in vitro. Here, we experimentally tested and confirmed three predictions of the model from new simulations concerning the roles of INaP and ICAN: (1) INaP and ICAN blockade have opposite effects on the relationship between network excitability and preBötC rhythmic activity; (2) INaP is essential for preBötC rhythmogenesis; and (3) ICAN is essential for generating the amplitude of rhythmic output but not rhythm generation. These predictions were confirmed via optogenetic manipulations of preBötC network excitability during graded INaP or ICAN blockade by pharmacological manipulations in slices in vitro containing the rhythmically active preBötC from the medulla oblongata of neonatal mice. Our results support and advance the hypothesis that INaP and ICAN mechanistically underlie rhythm and inspiratory burst pattern generation, respectively, in the isolated preBötC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan S Phillips
- Department of Mathematics, University of Pittsburgh
- Center for the Neural Basis of Cognition
| | | | - Yaroslav I Molkov
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, Georgia State University
- Neuroscience Institute, Georgia State University
| | - Jonathan E Rubin
- Department of Mathematics, University of Pittsburgh
- Center for the Neural Basis of Cognition
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5
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Kallurkar PS, Picardo MCD, Sugimura YK, Saha MS, Conradi Smith GD, Del Negro CA. Transcriptomes of electrophysiologically recorded Dbx1-derived respiratory neurons of the preBötzinger complex in neonatal mice. Sci Rep 2022; 12:2923. [PMID: 35190626 PMCID: PMC8861066 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-06834-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2021] [Accepted: 02/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Breathing depends on interneurons in the preBötzinger complex (preBötC) derived from Dbx1-expressing precursors. Here we investigate whether rhythm- and pattern-generating functions reside in discrete classes of Dbx1 preBötC neurons. In a slice model of breathing with ~ 5 s cycle period, putatively rhythmogenic Type-1 Dbx1 preBötC neurons activate 100-300 ms prior to Type-2 neurons, putatively specialized for output pattern, and 300-500 ms prior to the inspiratory motor output. We sequenced Type-1 and Type-2 transcriptomes and identified differential expression of 123 genes including ionotropic receptors (Gria3, Gabra1) that may explain their preinspiratory activation profiles and Ca2+ signaling (Cracr2a, Sgk1) involved in inspiratory and sigh bursts. Surprisingly, neuropeptide receptors that influence breathing (e.g., µ-opioid and bombesin-like peptide receptors) were only sparsely expressed, which suggests that cognate peptides and opioid drugs exert their profound effects on a small fraction of the preBötC core. These data in the public domain help explain the neural origins of breathing.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Yae K Sugimura
- Department of Neuroscience, Jikei University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Margaret S Saha
- Department of Biology, William & Mary, Williamsburg, VA, USA
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Sharples SA, Parker J, Vargas A, Milla-Cruz JJ, Lognon AP, Cheng N, Young L, Shonak A, Cymbalyuk GS, Whelan PJ. Contributions of h- and Na+/K+ Pump Currents to the Generation of Episodic and Continuous Rhythmic Activities. Front Cell Neurosci 2022; 15:715427. [PMID: 35185470 PMCID: PMC8855656 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2021.715427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2021] [Accepted: 12/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Developing spinal motor networks produce a diverse array of outputs, including episodic and continuous patterns of rhythmic activity. Variation in excitability state and neuromodulatory tone can facilitate transitions between episodic and continuous rhythms; however, the intrinsic mechanisms that govern these rhythms and their transitions are poorly understood. Here, we tested the capacity of a single central pattern generator (CPG) circuit with tunable properties to generate multiple outputs. To address this, we deployed a computational model composed of an inhibitory half-center oscillator (HCO). Following predictions of our computational model, we tested the contributions of key properties to the generation of an episodic rhythm produced by isolated spinal cords of the newborn mouse. The model recapitulates the diverse state-dependent rhythms evoked by dopamine. In the model, episodic bursting depended predominantly on the endogenous oscillatory properties of neurons, with Na+/K+ ATPase pump (IPump) and hyperpolarization-activated currents (Ih) playing key roles. Modulation of either IPump or Ih produced transitions between episodic and continuous rhythms and silence. As maximal activity of IPump decreased, the interepisode interval and period increased along with a reduction in episode duration. Decreasing maximal conductance of Ih decreased episode duration and increased interepisode interval. Pharmacological manipulations of Ih with ivabradine, and IPump with ouabain or monensin in isolated spinal cords produced findings consistent with the model. Our modeling and experimental results highlight key roles of Ih and IPump in producing episodic rhythms and provide insight into mechanisms that permit a single CPG to produce multiple patterns of rhythmicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon A. Sharples
- School of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, United Kingdom
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Jessica Parker
- Neuroscience Institute, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Alex Vargas
- Neuroscience Institute, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Jonathan J. Milla-Cruz
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Department of Comparative Biology and Experimental Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Adam P. Lognon
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Ning Cheng
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Department of Comparative Biology and Experimental Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Leanne Young
- Department of Comparative Biology and Experimental Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Anchita Shonak
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Gennady S. Cymbalyuk
- Neuroscience Institute, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, United States
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, United States
- Gennady S. Cymbalyuk,
| | - Patrick J. Whelan
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Department of Comparative Biology and Experimental Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- *Correspondence: Patrick J. Whelan,
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Dynamics of ramping bursts in a respiratory neuron model. J Comput Neurosci 2021; 50:161-180. [PMID: 34704174 DOI: 10.1007/s10827-021-00800-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2021] [Revised: 09/24/2021] [Accepted: 09/29/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Intensive computational and theoretical work has led to the development of multiple mathematical models for bursting in respiratory neurons in the pre-Bötzinger Complex (pre-BötC) of the mammalian brainstem. Nonetheless, these previous models have not captured the pre-inspiratory ramping aspects of these neurons' activity patterns, in which relatively slow tonic spiking gradually progresses to faster spiking and a full-blown burst, with a corresponding gradual development of an underlying plateau potential. In this work, we show that the incorporation of the dynamics of the extracellular potassium ion concentration into an existing model for pre-BötC neuron bursting, along with some parameter adjustments, suffices to induce this ramping behavior. Using fast-slow decomposition, we show that this activity can be considered as a form of parabolic bursting, but with burst termination at a homoclinic bifurcation rather than as a SNIC bifurcation. We also investigate the parameter-dependence of these solutions and show that the proposed model yields a greater dynamic range of burst frequencies, durations, and duty cycles than those produced by other models in the literature.
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8
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Dendritic A-Current in Rhythmically Active PreBötzinger Complex Neurons in Organotypic Cultures from Newborn Mice. J Neurosci 2018; 38:3039-3049. [PMID: 29459371 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.3342-17.2018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2017] [Revised: 01/22/2018] [Accepted: 02/09/2018] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The brainstem preBötzinger complex (preBötC) generates the inspiratory rhythm for breathing. The onset of neural activity that precipitates the inspiratory phase of the respiratory cycle may depend on the activity of type-1 preBötC neurons, which exhibit a transient outward K+ current, IA Inspiratory rhythm generation can be studied ex vivo because the preBötC remains rhythmically active in vitro, both in acute brainstem slices and organotypic cultures. Advantageous optical conditions in organotypic slice cultures from newborn mice of either sex allowed us to investigate how IA impacts Ca2+ transients occurring in the dendrites of rhythmically active type-1 preBötC neurons. The amplitude of dendritic Ca2+ transients evoked via voltage increases originating from the soma significantly increased after an IA antagonist, 4-aminopyridine (4-AP), was applied to the perfusion bath or to local dendritic regions. Similarly, glutamate-evoked postsynaptic depolarizations recorded at the soma increased in amplitude when 4-AP was coapplied with glutamate at distal dendritic locations. We conclude that IA is expressed on type-1 preBötC neuron dendrites. We propose that IA filters synaptic input, shunting sparse excitation, while enabling temporally summated events to pass more readily as a result of IA inactivation. Dendritic IA in rhythmically active preBötC neurons could thus ensure that inspiratory motor activity does not occur until excitatory synaptic drive is synchronized and well coordinated among cellular constituents of the preBötC during inspiratory rhythmogenesis. The biophysical properties of dendritic IA might thus promote robustness and regularity of breathing rhythms.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Brainstem neurons in the preBötC generate the oscillatory activity that underlies breathing. PreBötC neurons express voltage-dependent currents that can influence inspiratory activity, among which is a transient potassium current (IA) previously identified in a rhythmogenic excitatory subset of type-1 preBötC neurons. We sought to determine whether IA is expressed in the dendrites of preBötC. We found that dendrites of type-1 preBötC neurons indeed express IA, which may aid in shunting sparse non-summating synaptic inputs, while enabling strong summating excitatory inputs to readily pass and thus influence somatic membrane potential trajectory. The subcellular distribution of IA in rhythmically active neurons of the preBötC may thus be critical for producing well coordinated ensemble activity during inspiratory burst formation.
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Harris KD, Dashevskiy T, Mendoza J, Garcia AJ, Ramirez JM, Shea-Brown E. Different roles for inhibition in the rhythm-generating respiratory network. J Neurophysiol 2017; 118:2070-2088. [PMID: 28615332 PMCID: PMC5626906 DOI: 10.1152/jn.00174.2017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2017] [Revised: 05/25/2017] [Accepted: 06/12/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Unraveling the interplay of excitation and inhibition within rhythm-generating networks remains a fundamental issue in neuroscience. We use a biophysical model to investigate the different roles of local and long-range inhibition in the respiratory network, a key component of which is the pre-Bötzinger complex inspiratory microcircuit. Increasing inhibition within the microcircuit results in a limited number of out-of-phase neurons before rhythmicity and synchrony degenerate. Thus unstructured local inhibition is destabilizing and cannot support the generation of more than one rhythm. A two-phase rhythm requires restructuring the network into two microcircuits coupled by long-range inhibition in the manner of a half-center. In this context, inhibition leads to greater stability of the two out-of-phase rhythms. We support our computational results with in vitro recordings from mouse pre-Bötzinger complex. Partial excitation block leads to increased rhythmic variability, but this recovers after blockade of inhibition. Our results support the idea that local inhibition in the pre-Bötzinger complex is present to allow for descending control of synchrony or robustness to adverse conditions like hypoxia. We conclude that the balance of inhibition and excitation determines the stability of rhythmogenesis, but with opposite roles within and between areas. These different inhibitory roles may apply to a variety of rhythmic behaviors that emerge in widespread pattern-generating circuits of the nervous system.NEW & NOTEWORTHY The roles of inhibition within the pre-Bötzinger complex (preBötC) are a matter of debate. Using a combination of modeling and experiment, we demonstrate that inhibition affects synchrony, period variability, and overall frequency of the preBötC and coupled rhythmogenic networks. This work expands our understanding of ubiquitous motor and cognitive oscillatory networks.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Tatiana Dashevskiy
- Center for Integrative Brain Research, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, Washington
| | - Joshua Mendoza
- Center for Integrative Brain Research, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, Washington
| | - Alfredo J Garcia
- Institute for Integrative Physiology and Section of Emergency Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois; and
| | - Jan-Marino Ramirez
- Center for Integrative Brain Research, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, Washington
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington
| | - Eric Shea-Brown
- Department of Applied Mathematics, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
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10
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Bacak BJ, Kim T, Smith JC, Rubin JE, Rybak IA. Mixed-mode oscillations and population bursting in the pre-Bötzinger complex. eLife 2016; 5:e13403. [PMID: 26974345 PMCID: PMC4846382 DOI: 10.7554/elife.13403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2015] [Accepted: 03/11/2016] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
This study focuses on computational and theoretical investigations of neuronal activity arising in the pre-Bötzinger complex (pre-BötC), a medullary region generating the inspiratory phase of breathing in mammals. A progressive increase of neuronal excitability in medullary slices containing the pre-BötC produces mixed-mode oscillations (MMOs) characterized by large amplitude population bursts alternating with a series of small amplitude bursts. Using two different computational models, we demonstrate that MMOs emerge within a heterogeneous excitatory neural network because of progressive neuronal recruitment and synchronization. The MMO pattern depends on the distributed neuronal excitability, the density and weights of network interconnections, and the cellular properties underlying endogenous bursting. Critically, the latter should provide a reduction of spiking frequency within neuronal bursts with increasing burst frequency and a dependence of the after-burst recovery period on burst amplitude. Our study highlights a novel mechanism by which heterogeneity naturally leads to complex dynamics in rhythmic neuronal populations. DOI:http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.13403.001 Each breath we take removes carbon dioxide from the body and exchanges it for oxygen. A structure called the brainstem, which connects the brain with the spinal cord, generates the breathing rhythm and controls its rate. While this process normally occurs automatically, we can also control our breathing voluntarily, such as when singing or speaking. Within the brainstem, a group of neurons in the area known as the pre-Bötzinger complex is responsible for ensuring that an animal breathes in at regular intervals. Recordings of the electrical activity from slices of brainstem show that pre-Bötzinger neurons display rhythmic activity with characteristic patterns called “mixed-mode oscillations”. These rhythms consist of bursts of strong activity (“large amplitude bursts”), essential for triggering regular breathing, separated by a series of bursts of weak activity (“small amplitude bursts”). However, it is not clear how mixed-mode oscillations arise. Bacak, Kim et al. now provide insights into this process by developing two computational models of the pre-Bötzinger complex. The first model consists of a diverse population of 100 neurons joined by a relatively small number of weak connections to form a network. The second model is a simplified version of the first, consisting of just three neurons. By manipulating the properties of the simulated networks, and analysing the data mathematically, Bacak, Kim et al. identify the properties of the neurons that allow them to generate mixed-mode oscillations and thus rhythmic breathing. The models suggest that mixed-mode oscillations result from the synchronization of many neurons with different levels of activity (excitability). Neurons with low excitability have low bursting frequencies, but generate strong activity and recruit other neurons, ultimately producing large amplitude bursts that cause breathing. Many parts of the nervous system are also made up of networks of neurons with diverse excitability. A challenge for future studies is thus to investigate whether other networks of neurons similar to the pre-Bötzinger complex generate rhythms that control other repetitive actions, such as walking and chewing. DOI:http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.13403.002
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Affiliation(s)
- Bartholomew J Bacak
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, United States
| | - Taegyo Kim
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, United States
| | - Jeffrey C Smith
- Cellular and Systems Neurobiology Section, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, United States
| | - Jonathan E Rubin
- Department of Mathematics, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, United States
| | - Ilya A Rybak
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, United States
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11
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Mechanisms underlying the activity-dependent regulation of locomotor network performance by the Na+ pump. Sci Rep 2015; 5:16188. [PMID: 26541477 PMCID: PMC4635428 DOI: 10.1038/srep16188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2015] [Accepted: 10/12/2015] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Activity-dependent modification of neural network output usually results from changes in neurotransmitter release and/or membrane conductance. In Xenopus frog tadpoles, spinal locomotor network output is adapted by an ultraslow afterhyperpolarization (usAHP) mediated by an increase in Na+ pump current. Here we systematically explore how the interval between two swimming episodes affects the second episode, which is shorter and slower than the first episode. We find the firing reliability of spinal rhythmic neurons to be lower in the second episode, except for excitatory descending interneurons (dINs). The sodium/proton antiporter, monensin, which potentiates Na+ pump function, induced similar effects to short inter-swim intervals. A usAHP induced by supra-threshold pulses reduced neuronal firing reliability during swimming. It also increased the threshold current for spiking and introduced a delay to the first spike in a train, without reducing subsequent firing frequency. This delay was abolished by ouabain or zero K+ saline, which eliminate the usAHP. We present evidence for an A-type K+ current in spinal CPG neurons which is inactivated by depolarization and de-inactivated by hyperpolarization, and accounts for the prolonged delay. We conclude that the usAHP attenuates neuronal responses to excitatory network inputs by both membrane hyperpolarization and enhanced de-inactivation of an A-current.
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12
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Moraes DJA, Machado BH. Electrophysiological properties of laryngeal motoneurones in rats submitted to chronic intermittent hypoxia. J Physiol 2015; 593:619-34. [PMID: 25433075 DOI: 10.1113/jphysiol.2014.283085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2014] [Accepted: 11/17/2014] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
KEY POINTS The respiratory control of the glottis by laryngeal motoneurones is characterized by inspiratory abduction and post-inspiratory adduction causing decreases and increases in upper airway resistance, respectively. Chronic intermittent hypoxia (CIH), an important component of obstructive sleep apnoea, exaggerated glottal abduction (before inspiration), associated with active expiration and decreased glottal adduction during post-inspiration. CIH increased the inspiratory and decreased the post-inspiratory laryngeal motoneurone activities, which is not associated to changes in their intrinsic electrophysiological properties. We conclude that the changes in the respiratory network after CIH seem to be an adaptive process required for an appropriated pulmonary ventilation and control of upper airway resistance under intermittent episodes of hypoxia. ABSTRACT To keep an appropriate airflow to and from the lungs under physiological conditions a precise neural co-ordination of the upper airway resistance by laryngeal motoneurones in the nucleus ambiguus is essential. Chronic intermittent hypoxia (CIH), an important component of obstructive sleep apnoea, may alter these fine mechanisms. Here, using nerve and whole cell patch clamp recordings in in situ preparations of rats we investigated the effects of CIH on the respiratory control of the upper airway resistance, on the electrophysiological properties of laryngeal motoneurones in the nucleus ambiguus, and the role of carotid body (CB) afferents to the brainstem on the underlying mechanisms of these effects. CIH rats exhibited longer pre-inspiratory and lower post-inspiratory superior laryngeal nerve activities than control rats. These changes produced exaggerated glottal abduction (before inspiration) and decreased glottal adduction during post-inspiration, indicating a reduction of upper airway resistance during these respiratory phases after CIH. CB denervation abolished these changes produced by CIH. Regarding choline acetyltransferase positive-laryngeal motoneurones, CIH increased the firing frequency of inspiratory and decreased the firing frequency of post-inspiratory laryngeal motoneurones, without changes in their intrinsic electrophysiological properties. These data show that the effects of CIH on the upper airway resistance and laryngeal motoneurones activities are driven by the integrity of CB, which afferents induce changes in the central respiratory generators in the brainstem. These neural changes in the respiratory network seem to be an adaptive process required for an appropriated pulmonary ventilation and control of upper airway resistance under intermittent episodes of hypoxia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Davi J A Moraes
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
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Ramirez JM, Doi A, Garcia AJ, Elsen FP, Koch H, Wei AD. The cellular building blocks of breathing. Compr Physiol 2013; 2:2683-731. [PMID: 23720262 DOI: 10.1002/cphy.c110033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Respiratory brainstem neurons fulfill critical roles in controlling breathing: they generate the activity patterns for breathing and contribute to various sensory responses including changes in O2 and CO2. These complex sensorimotor tasks depend on the dynamic interplay between numerous cellular building blocks that consist of voltage-, calcium-, and ATP-dependent ionic conductances, various ionotropic and metabotropic synaptic mechanisms, as well as neuromodulators acting on G-protein coupled receptors and second messenger systems. As described in this review, the sensorimotor responses of the respiratory network emerge through the state-dependent integration of all these building blocks. There is no known respiratory function that involves only a small number of intrinsic, synaptic, or modulatory properties. Because of the complex integration of numerous intrinsic, synaptic, and modulatory mechanisms, the respiratory network is capable of continuously adapting to changes in the external and internal environment, which makes breathing one of the most integrated behaviors. Not surprisingly, inspiration is critical not only in the control of ventilation, but also in the context of "inspiring behaviors" such as arousal of the mind and even creativity. Far-reaching implications apply also to the underlying network mechanisms, as lessons learned from the respiratory network apply to network functions in general.
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Affiliation(s)
- J M Ramirez
- Center for Integrative Brain Research, Seattle Children's Research Institut, Seattle, Washington, USA.
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Picardo MCD, Weragalaarachchi KTH, Akins VT, Del Negro CA. Physiological and morphological properties of Dbx1-derived respiratory neurons in the pre-Botzinger complex of neonatal mice. J Physiol 2013; 591:2687-703. [PMID: 23459755 PMCID: PMC3678050 DOI: 10.1113/jphysiol.2012.250118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2012] [Accepted: 02/27/2013] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Breathing in mammals depends on an inspiratory-related rhythm that is generated by glutamatergic neurons in the pre-Bötzinger complex (preBötC) of the lower brainstem. A substantial subset of putative rhythm-generating preBötC neurons derive from a single genetic line that expresses the transcription factor Dbx1, but the cellular mechanisms of rhythmogenesis remain incompletely understood. To elucidate these mechanisms, we carried out a comparative analysis of Dbx1-expressing neurons (Dbx1(+)) and non-Dbx1-derived (Dbx1(-)) neurons in the preBötC. Whole-cell recordings in rhythmically active newborn mouse slice preparations showed that Dbx1(+) neurons activate earlier in the respiratory cycle and discharge greater magnitude inspiratory bursts compared with Dbx1(-) neurons. Furthermore, Dbx1(+) neurons required less input current to discharge spikes (rheobase) in the context of network activity. The expression of intrinsic membrane properties indicative of A-current (IA) and hyperpolarization-activated current (Ih) tended to be mutually exclusive in Dbx1(+) neurons. In contrast, there was no such relationship in the expression of currents IA and Ih in Dbx1(-) neurons. Confocal imaging and digital morphological reconstruction of recorded neurons revealed dendritic spines on Dbx1(-) neurons, but Dbx1(+) neurons were spineless. The morphology of Dbx1(+) neurons was largely confined to the transverse plane, whereas Dbx1(-) neurons projected dendrites to a greater extent in the parasagittal plane. The putative rhythmogenic nature of Dbx1(+) neurons may be attributable, in part, to a higher level of intrinsic excitability in the context of network synaptic activity. Furthermore, Dbx1(+) neuronal morphology may facilitate temporal summation and integration of local synaptic inputs from other Dbx1(+) neurons, taking place largely in the dendrites, which could be important for initiating and maintaining bursts and synchronizing activity during the inspiratory phase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Cristina D Picardo
- Department of Applied Science, McGlothlin-Street Hall, Room 318, The College of William & Mary, Williamsburg, VA 23187-8795, USA.
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Oginsky MF, Cymbalyuk GS. Homeostatic regulation in a single neuron model from the Pre-Bötzinger Complex. BMC Neurosci 2012. [PMCID: PMC3403570 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2202-13-s1-p158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
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Anderson TM, Abbinanti MD, Peck JH, Gilmour M, Brownstone RM, Masino MA. Low-threshold calcium currents contribute to locomotor-like activity in neonatal mice. J Neurophysiol 2011; 107:103-13. [PMID: 21994264 DOI: 10.1152/jn.00583.2011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
In this study, we examined the contribution of a low-threshold calcium current [I(Ca(T))] to locomotor-related activity in the neonatal mouse. Specifically, the role of I(Ca(T)) was studied during chemically induced, locomotor-like activity in the isolated whole cord and in a genetically distinct population of ventromedial spinal interneurons marked by the homeobox gene Hb9. In isolated whole spinal cords, cycle frequency was decreased in the presence of low-threshold calcium channel blockers, which suggests a role for I(Ca(T)) in the network that produces rhythmic, locomotor-like activity. Additionally, we used Hb9 interneurons as a model to study the cellular responses to application of low-threshold calcium channel blockers. In transverse slice preparations from transgenic Hb9::enhanced green fluorescent protein neonatal mice, N-methyl-d-aspartate-induced membrane potential oscillations in identified Hb9 interneurons also slowed in frequency with application of nickel when fast, spike-mediated, synaptic transmission was blocked with TTX. Voltage-clamp and immunolabeling experiments confirmed expression of I(Ca(T)) and channels, respectively, in Hb9 interneurons located in the ventromedial spinal cord. Taken together, these results provide support that T-type calcium currents play an important role in network-wide rhythm generation during chemically evoked, fictive locomotor activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatiana M Anderson
- Dept. of Neuroscience, Univ. of Minnesota, 321 Church St., Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
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Masurkar AV, Chen WR. Potassium currents of olfactory bulb juxtaglomerular cells: characterization, simulation, and implications for plateau potential firing. Neuroscience 2011; 192:247-62. [PMID: 21704678 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2011.06.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2011] [Revised: 05/06/2011] [Accepted: 06/03/2011] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Odor identity is encoded by the activity of olfactory bulb glomeruli, which receive primary sensory input and transfer it to projection neurons. Juxtaglomerular cells (JGCs) may influence glomerular processing via firing of long lasting plateau potentials. Though inward currents have been investigated, little is known regarding potassium current contribution to JGC plateau potentials. We pursued study of these currents, with the overarching goal of creating components for a computational model of JGC plateau potential firing. In conditions minimizing calcium-activated potassium current (I(K(Ca))), we used whole cell voltage clamp and in vitro slice preparations to characterize three potassium currents in rat JGCs. The prominent component I(kt1) displayed rapid kinetics (τ(10%-90% rise), 0.6-2 ms; τ(inactivation), 5-10 ms) and was blocked by high concentration 4-aminopyridine (4-AP) (5 mM) and tetramethylammonium (TEA) (40 mM). It had half maximal activation at -10 mV (V(½)max) and little inactivation at rest. I(kt2), with slower kinetics (τ(10%-90% rise), 11-15 ms; τ(inactivation), 100-300 ms), was blocked by low concentration 4-AP (0.5 mM) and TEA (5 mM). The V(½)max was 0 mV and inactivation was also minimal at rest. Sustained current I(kt3) showed sensitivity to low concentration 4-AP and TEA, and had V(½)max of +10 mV. Further experiments, in conditions of physiologic calcium buffering, suggested that I(K(Ca)) contributed to I(kt3) with minimal effect on plateau potential evolution. We transformed these characterizations into Hodgkin-Huxley models that robustly mimicked experimental data. Further simulation demonstrated that I(kt1) would be most efficiently activated by plateau potential waveforms, predicting a critical role in shaping JGC firing. These studies demonstrated that JGCs possess a unique potassium current profile, with delayed rectifier (I(kt3)), atypical A-current (I(kt1)), and D-current (I(kt2)) in accordance with known expression patterns in olfactory bulb (OB) glomeruli. Our simulations also provide an initial framework for more integrative models of JGC plateau potential firing.
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Affiliation(s)
- A V Masurkar
- Department of Neurobiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA.
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Kobayashi S, Fujito Y, Matsuyama K, Aoki M. Raphe modulation of the pre-Bötzinger complex respiratory bursts in in vitro medullary half-slice preparations of neonatal mice. J Comp Physiol A Neuroethol Sens Neural Behav Physiol 2010; 196:519-28. [DOI: 10.1007/s00359-010-0539-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2009] [Revised: 04/18/2010] [Accepted: 05/18/2010] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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Garcia-Campmany L, Stam FJ, Goulding M. From circuits to behaviour: motor networks in vertebrates. Curr Opin Neurobiol 2010; 20:116-25. [PMID: 20138753 DOI: 10.1016/j.conb.2010.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2009] [Revised: 12/22/2009] [Accepted: 01/06/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Neural networks in the hindbrain and spinal cord generate the simple patterns of motor activity that are necessary for breathing and locomotion. These networks function autonomously, producing simple yet flexible rhythmic motor behaviours that are highly responsive to sensory inputs and central control. This review outlines recent advances in our understanding of the genetic programmes controlling the assembly and functioning of circuits in the hindbrain and spinal cord that are responsible for respiration and locomotion. In addition, we highlight the influence that target-derived retrograde signaling and experience-dependent mechanisms have on establishing connectivity, particularly with respect to sensory afferent innervation of the spinal cord.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lidia Garcia-Campmany
- Molecular Neurobiology Laboratory, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies, 10010 North Torrey Pines Rd, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
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Anderson TS, Foglyano R, Wilson CG. Altered respiratory rhythm in a preBötzinger complex model due to addition of low-threshold, non-inactivating K+ current and tonic input. BMC Neurosci 2009. [DOI: 10.1186/1471-2202-10-s1-p323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
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21
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Chevalier M, Ben-Mabrouk F, Tryba AK. Background sodium current underlying respiratory rhythm regularity. Eur J Neurosci 2008; 28:2423-33. [PMID: 19032590 DOI: 10.1111/j.1460-9568.2008.06537.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Rhythm-generating neural circuits underlying diverse behaviors such as locomotion, sleep states, digestion and respiration play critical roles in our lives. Irregularities in these rhythmic behaviors characterize disease states--thus, it is essential that we identify the ionic and/or cellular mechanisms that are necessary for triggering these rhythmic behaviors on a regular basis. Here, we examine which ionic conductances underlie regular or 'stable' respiratory activities, which are proposed to underlie eupnea, or normal quiet breathing. We used a mouse in vitro medullary slice preparation containing the rhythmogenic respiratory neural circuit, called the preBötzinger complex (preBötC), that underlies inspiratory respiratory activity. We varied either [K(+)](o) or [Na(+)](o), or blocked voltage-gated calcium channels, while recording from synaptically isolated respiratory pacemakers, and examined which of these manipulations resulted in their endogenous bursting becoming more irregular. Of these, lowering [Na(+)](o) increased the irregularity of endogenous bursting by synaptically isolated pacemakers. Lowering [Na(+)](o) also decreased the regularity of fictive eupneic activity generated by the ventral respiratory group (VRG) population and hypoglossal motor output. Voltage clamp data indicate that lowering [Na(+)](o), in a range that results in irregular population rhythm generation, decreased persistent sodium currents, but not transient sodium currents underlying action potentials. Our data suggest that background sodium currents play a major role in determining the regularity of the fictive eupneic respiratory rhythm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc Chevalier
- Department of Physiology, Medical College of Wisconsin, 8701 Watertown Plank Rd, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
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