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Kuo CC, McCall JG. Neural circuit-selective, multiplexed pharmacological targeting of prefrontal cortex-projecting locus coeruleus neurons drives antinociception. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.06.08.598059. [PMID: 38895281 PMCID: PMC11185789 DOI: 10.1101/2024.06.08.598059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
Selective manipulation of neural circuits using optogenetics and chemogenetics holds great translational potential but requires genetic access to neurons. Here, we demonstrate a general framework for identifying genetic tool-independent, pharmacological strategies for neural circuit-selective modulation. We developed an economically accessible calcium imaging-based approach for large-scale pharmacological scans of endogenous receptor-mediated neural activity. As a testbed for this approach, we used the mouse locus coeruleus due to the combination of its widespread, modular efferent neural circuitry and its wide variety of endogenously expressed GPCRs. Using machine learning-based action potential deconvolution and retrograde tracing, we identified an agonist cocktail that selectively inhibits medial prefrontal cortex-projecting locus coeruleus neurons. In vivo, this cocktail produces synergistic antinociception, consistent with selective pharmacological blunting of this neural circuit. This framework has broad utility for selective targeting of other neural circuits under different physiological and pathological states, facilitating non-genetic translational applications arising from cell type-selective discoveries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao-Cheng Kuo
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA; Center for Clinical Pharmacology, University of Health Sciences and Pharmacy in St. Louis and Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA; Washington University Pain Center, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Jordan G. McCall
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA; Center for Clinical Pharmacology, University of Health Sciences and Pharmacy in St. Louis and Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA; Washington University Pain Center, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
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Alpay B, Cimen B, Akaydin E, Onat F, Bolay H, Sara Y. Extrasynaptic δGABAA receptors mediate resistance to migraine-like phenotype in rats. J Headache Pain 2024; 25:75. [PMID: 38724972 PMCID: PMC11083752 DOI: 10.1186/s10194-024-01777-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND GABA, a key inhibitory neurotransmitter, has synaptic and extrasynaptic receptors on the postsynaptic neuron. Background GABA, which spills over from the synaptic cleft, acts on extrasynaptic delta subunit containing GABAA receptors. The role of extrasynaptic GABAergic input in migraine is unknown. We investigated the susceptibility to valid migraine-provoking substances with clinically relevant behavioral readouts in Genetic Absence Epilepsy of Rats Strasbourg (GAERS), in which the GABAergic tonus was altered. Subsequently, we screened relevant GABAergic mechanisms in Wistar rats by pharmacological means to identify the mechanisms. METHODS Wistar and GAERS rats were administered nitroglycerin (10 mg/kg) or levcromakalim (1 mg/kg). Mechanical allodynia and photophobia were assessed using von Frey monofilaments and a dark-light box. Effects of GAT-1 blocker tiagabine (5 mg/kg), GABAB receptor agonist baclofen (2 mg/kg), synaptic GABAA receptor agonist diazepam (1 mg/kg), extrasynaptic GABAA receptor agonists gaboxadol (4 mg/kg), and muscimol (0.75 mg/kg), T-type calcium channel blocker ethosuximide (100 mg/kg) or synaptic GABAA receptor antagonist flumazenil (15 mg/kg) on levcromakalim-induced migraine phenotype were screened. RESULTS Unlike Wistar rats, GAERS exhibited no reduction in mechanical pain thresholds or light aversion following nitroglycerin or levcromakalim injection. Ethosuximide did not reverse the resistant phenotype in GAERS, excluding the role of T-type calcium channel dysfunction in this phenomenon. Tiagabine prevented levcromakalim-induced mechanical allodynia in Wistar rats, suggesting a key role in enhanced GABA spillover. Baclofen did not alleviate mechanical allodynia. Diazepam failed to mitigate levcromakalim-induced migraine phenotype. Additionally, the resistant phenotype in GAERS was not affected by flumazenil. Extrasynaptic GABAA receptor agonists gaboxadol and muscimol inhibited periorbital allodynia in Wistar rats. CONCLUSION Our study introduced a rat strain resistant to migraine-provoking agents and signified a critical involvement of extrasynaptic δGABAergic receptors. Extrasynaptic δ GABAA receptors, by mediating constant background inhibition on the excitability of neurons, stand as a novel drug target with a therapeutic potential in migraine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Berkay Alpay
- Department of Medical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Hacettepe University, Sihhiye, Ankara, 06320, Türkiye
- Neuroscience and Neurotechnology Excellence Joint Application and Research Center (NÖROM), Ankara, 06560, Türkiye
| | - Bariscan Cimen
- Department of Medical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Hacettepe University, Sihhiye, Ankara, 06320, Türkiye
- Neuroscience and Neurotechnology Excellence Joint Application and Research Center (NÖROM), Ankara, 06560, Türkiye
| | - Elif Akaydin
- Department of Medical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Hacettepe University, Sihhiye, Ankara, 06320, Türkiye
- Neuroscience and Neurotechnology Excellence Joint Application and Research Center (NÖROM), Ankara, 06560, Türkiye
| | - Filiz Onat
- Department of Medical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Acibadem Mehmet Ali Aydinlar University, Istanbul, 34752, Türkiye
| | - Hayrunnisa Bolay
- Neuroscience and Neurotechnology Excellence Joint Application and Research Center (NÖROM), Ankara, 06560, Türkiye.
- Department of Neurology and Algology, Faculty of Medicine, Gazi University, Besevler, Ankara, 06560, Türkiye.
| | - Yildirim Sara
- Department of Medical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Hacettepe University, Sihhiye, Ankara, 06320, Türkiye.
- Neuroscience and Neurotechnology Excellence Joint Application and Research Center (NÖROM), Ankara, 06560, Türkiye.
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Kuo CC, Chan H, Hung WC, Chen RF, Yang HW, Min MY. Carbachol increases locus coeruleus activation by targeting noradrenergic neurons, inhibitory interneurons and inhibitory synaptic transmission. Eur J Neurosci 2023; 57:32-53. [PMID: 36382388 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.15866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2021] [Revised: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 11/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The locus coeruleus (LC) consists of noradrenergic (NA) neurons and plays an important role in controlling behaviours. Although much of the knowledge regarding LC functions comes from studying behavioural outcomes upon administration of muscarinic acetylcholine receptor (mAChR) agonists into the nucleus, the exact mechanisms remain unclear. Here, we report that the application of carbachol (CCh), an mAChR agonist, increased the spontaneous action potentials (sAPs) of both LC-NA neurons and local inhibitory interneurons (LC I-INs) in acute brain slices by activating M1/M3 mAChRs (m1/3 AChRs). Optogenetic activation of LC I-INs evoked inhibitory postsynaptic currents (IPSCs) in LC-NA neurons that were mediated by γ-aminobutyric acid type A (GABAA ) and glycine receptors, and CCh application decreased the IPSC amplitude through a presynaptic mechanism by activating M4 mAChRs (m4 AChRs). LC-NA neurons also exhibited spontaneous phasic-like activity (sPLA); CCh application increased the incidence of this activity. This effect of CCh application was not observed with blockade of GABAA and glycine receptors, suggesting that the sPLA enhancement occurred likely because of the decreased synaptic transmission of LC I-INs onto LC-NA neurons by the m4 AChR activation and/or increased spiking rate of LC I-INs by the m1/3 AChR activation, which could lead to fatigue of the synaptic transmission. In conclusion, we report that CCh application, while inhibiting their synaptic transmission, increases sAP rates of LC-NA neurons and LC I-INs. Collectively, these effects provide insight into the cellular mechanisms underlying the behaviour modulations following the administration of muscarinic receptor agonists into the LC reported by the previous studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao-Cheng Kuo
- Department of Life Science, College of Life Science, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hao Chan
- Department of Life Science, College of Life Science, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Wei-Chen Hung
- Department of Life Science, College of Life Science, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ruei-Feng Chen
- Department of Life Science, College of Life Science, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan.,Neurobiology and Cognitive Science Center, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hsiu-Wen Yang
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Chung-Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan.,Department of Medical Research, Chung-Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Yuan Min
- Department of Life Science, College of Life Science, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan.,Neurobiology and Cognitive Science Center, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
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Mamelak M. Sleep, Narcolepsy, and Sodium Oxybate. Curr Neuropharmacol 2021; 20:272-291. [PMID: 33827411 PMCID: PMC9413790 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x19666210407151227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2021] [Revised: 03/18/2021] [Accepted: 03/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Sodium oxybate (SO) has been in use for many decades to treat narcolepsy with cataplexy. It functions as a weak GABAB agonist but also as an energy source for the brain as a result of its metabolism to succinate and as a powerful antioxidant because of its capacity to induce the formation of NADPH. Its actions at thalamic GABAB receptors can induce slow-wave activity, while its actions at GABAB receptors on monoaminergic neurons can induce or delay REM sleep. By altering the balance between monoaminergic and cholinergic neuronal activity, SO uniquely can induce and prevent cataplexy. The formation of NADPH may enhance sleep’s restorative process by accelerating the removal of the reactive oxygen species (ROS), which accumulate during wakefulness. SO improves alertness in normal subjects and in patients with narcolepsy. SO may allay severe psychological stress - an inflammatory state triggered by increased levels of ROS and characterized by cholinergic supersensitivity and monoaminergic deficiency. SO may be able to eliminate the inflammatory state and correct the cholinergic/ monoaminergic imbalance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mortimer Mamelak
- Department of Psychiatry, Baycrest Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario. Canada
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Tossell K, Dodhia RA, Galet B, Tkachuk O, Ungless MA. Tonic GABAergic inhibition, via GABA A receptors containing αβƐ subunits, regulates excitability of ventral tegmental area dopamine neurons. Eur J Neurosci 2021; 53:1722-1737. [PMID: 33522050 PMCID: PMC8651010 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.15133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2019] [Revised: 12/15/2020] [Accepted: 01/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The activity of midbrain dopamine neurons is strongly regulated by fast synaptic inhibitory γ‐Aminobutyric acid (GABA)ergic inputs. There is growing evidence in other brain regions that low concentrations of ambient GABA can persistently activate certain subtypes of GABAA receptor to generate a tonic current. However, evidence for a tonic GABAergic current in midbrain dopamine neurons is limited. To address this, we conducted whole‐cell recordings from ventral tegmental area (VTA) dopamine neurons in brain slices from mice. We found that application of GABAA receptor antagonists decreased the holding current, indicating the presence of a tonic GABAergic input. Global increases in GABA release, induced by either a nitric oxide donor or inhibition of GABA uptake, further increased this tonic current. Importantly, prolonged inhibition of the firing activity of local GABAergic neurons abolished the tonic current. A combination of pharmacology and immunohistochemistry experiments suggested that, unlike common examples of tonic inhibition, this current may be mediated by a relatively unusual combination of α4βƐ subunits. Lastly, we found that the tonic current reduced excitability in dopamine neurons suggesting a subtractive effect on firing activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyoko Tossell
- MRC London Institute of Medical Sciences (LMS), London, UK.,Institute of Clinical Sciences (ICS), Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Rakesh A Dodhia
- MRC London Institute of Medical Sciences (LMS), London, UK.,Institute of Clinical Sciences (ICS), Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Benjamin Galet
- MRC London Institute of Medical Sciences (LMS), London, UK.,Institute of Clinical Sciences (ICS), Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Olga Tkachuk
- MRC London Institute of Medical Sciences (LMS), London, UK.,Institute of Clinical Sciences (ICS), Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Mark A Ungless
- MRC London Institute of Medical Sciences (LMS), London, UK.,Institute of Clinical Sciences (ICS), Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, UK
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Huo Q, Tabassum S, Chen M, Sun M, Deng Y, Zheng X, Li Y, Chen J, Long C, Yang L. Amyloid-β Protein Precursor Deficiency Changes Neuronal Electrical Activity and Levels of Mitochondrial Proteins in the Medial Prefrontal Cortex. J Alzheimers Dis 2021; 81:1469-1482. [PMID: 33935084 DOI: 10.3233/jad-201557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neuropathological features of Alzheimer's disease are characterized by the deposition of amyloid-β (Aβ) plaques and impairments in synaptic activity and memory. However, we know little about the physiological role of amyloid-β protein precursor (AβPP) from which Aβ derives. OBJECTIVE Evaluate APP deficiency induced alterations in neuronal electrical activity and mitochondrial protein expression. METHODS Utilizing electrophysiological, biochemical, pharmacological, and behavioral tests, we revealed aberrant local field potential (LFP), extracellular neuronal firing and levels of mitochondrial proteins. RESULT We show that APP knockout (APP-/-) leads to increased gamma oscillations in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) at 1-2 months old, which can be restored by baclofen (Bac), a γ-aminobutyric acid type B receptor (GABABR) agonist. A higher dose and longer exposure time is required for Bac to suppress neuronal firing in APP-/- mice than in wild type animals, indicating enhanced GABABR mediated activity in the mPFC of APP-/- mice. In line with increased GABABR function, the glutamine synthetase inhibitor, L-methionine sulfonate, significantly increases GABABR levels in the mPFC of APP-/- mice and this is associated with a significantly lower incidence of death. The results suggest that APP-/- mice developed stronger GABABR mediated inhibition. Using HEK 293 as an expression system, we uncover that AβPP functions to suppress GABABR expression. Furthermore, APP-/- mice show abnormal expression of several mitochondrial proteins. CONCLUSION APP deficiency leads to both abnormal network activity involving defected GABABR and mitochondrial dysfunction, suggesting critical role of AβPP in synaptic and network function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingwei Huo
- Precise Genome Engineering Center, School of Life Sciences, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou, China
- Medical College of Acu-Moxi and Rehabilitation, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Sidra Tabassum
- Precise Genome Engineering Center, School of Life Sciences, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ming Chen
- Department of Pharmacology, Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory and Immunopharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Mengyao Sun
- School of Life Sciences, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yueming Deng
- School of Life Sciences, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xingzhi Zheng
- School of Life Sciences, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yi Li
- School of Life Sciences, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jian Chen
- School of Life Sciences, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Cheng Long
- School of Life Sciences, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Li Yang
- Precise Genome Engineering Center, School of Life Sciences, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou, China
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Wu RN, Hung WC, Chen CT, Tsai LP, Lai WS, Min MY, Wong SB. Firing activity of locus coeruleus noradrenergic neurons decreases in necdin-deficient mice, an animal model of Prader-Willi syndrome. J Neurodev Disord 2020; 12:21. [PMID: 32727346 PMCID: PMC7389383 DOI: 10.1186/s11689-020-09323-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2020] [Accepted: 07/17/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by multiple respiratory, cognitive, endocrine, and behavioral symptoms, such as central apnea, intellectual disabilities, exaggerated stress responses, and temper tantrums. The locus coeruleus noradrenergic system (LC-NE) modulates a diverse range of behaviors, including arousal, learning, pain modulation, and stress-induced negative affective states, which are possibly correlated with the pathogenesis of PWS phenotypes. Therefore, we evaluated the LC-NE neuronal activity of necdin-deficient mice, an animal model of PWS. METHODS Heterozygous necdin-deficient mice (B6.Cg-Ndntm1ky) were bred from wild-type (WT) females to generate WT (+m/+p) and heterozygotes (+m/-p) animals, which were examined of LC-NE neuronal activity, developmental reflexes, and plethysmography. RESULTS On slice electrophysiology, LC-NE neurons of Ndntm1ky mice with necdin deficiency showed significantly decreased spontaneous activities and impaired excitability, which was mediated by enhanced A-type voltage-dependent potassium currents. Ndntm1ky mice also exhibited the neonatal phenotypes of PWS, such as hypotonia and blunt respiratory responses to hypercapnia. CONCLUSIONS LC-NE neuronal firing activity decreased in necdin-deficient mice, suggesting that LC, the primary source of norepinephrine in the central nervous system, is possibly involved in PWS pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui-Ni Wu
- Department of Pediatrics, Taipei Tzu Chi Hospital, Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation, No. 289, Jiangguo Rd, Xindian Dist, New Taipei City, 23142, Taiwan
| | - Wei-Chen Hung
- Department of Life Science, College of Life Science, National Taiwan University, No. 1, Sec 4, Roosevelt Rd, Taipei, 10617, Taiwan
| | - Ching-Tsuey Chen
- Department of Life Science, College of Life Science, National Taiwan University, No. 1, Sec 4, Roosevelt Rd, Taipei, 10617, Taiwan
| | - Li-Ping Tsai
- Department of Pediatrics, Taipei Tzu Chi Hospital, Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation, No. 289, Jiangguo Rd, Xindian Dist, New Taipei City, 23142, Taiwan
- School of Medicine, Tzu Chi University, No. 701, Sec 3, Jhongyang Rd, Hualien, 97071, Taiwan
| | - Wen-Sung Lai
- Department of Psychology, National Taiwan University, No. 1, Sec 4, Roosevelt Rd, Taipei, 10617, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Yuan Min
- Department of Life Science, College of Life Science, National Taiwan University, No. 1, Sec 4, Roosevelt Rd, Taipei, 10617, Taiwan
| | - Shi-Bing Wong
- Department of Pediatrics, Taipei Tzu Chi Hospital, Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation, No. 289, Jiangguo Rd, Xindian Dist, New Taipei City, 23142, Taiwan.
- School of Medicine, Tzu Chi University, No. 701, Sec 3, Jhongyang Rd, Hualien, 97071, Taiwan.
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Kuo CC, Hsieh JC, Tsai HC, Kuo YS, Yau HJ, Chen CC, Chen RF, Yang HW, Min MY. Inhibitory interneurons regulate phasic activity of noradrenergic neurons in the mouse locus coeruleus and functional implications. J Physiol 2020; 598:4003-4029. [PMID: 32598024 DOI: 10.1113/jp279557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2020] [Accepted: 06/25/2020] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
KEY POINTS The locus coeruleus (LC) contains noradrenergic (NA) neurons that respond to novel stimuli in the environment with phasic activation to initiate an orienting response; phasic LC activation is also triggered by stimuli, representing the outcome of task-related decision processes, to facilitate ensuing behaviours and help optimize task performance. Here, we report that LC-NA neurons exhibit bursts of action potentials in vitro resembling phasic LC activation in vivo, and the activity is gated by inhibitory interneurons (I-INs) located in the peri-LC. We also observe that inhibition of peri-LC I-INs enhances prepulse inhibition and axons from cortical areas that play important roles in evaluating the cost/reward of a stimulus synapse on both peri-LC I-INs and LC-NA neurons. The results help us understand the cellular mechanisms underlying the generation and regulation of phasic LC activation with a focus on the role of peri-LC I-INs. ABSTRACT Noradrenergic (NA) neurons in the locus coeruleus (LC) have global axonal projection to the brain. These neurons discharge action potentials phasically in response to either novel stimuli in the environment to initiate an orienting behaviour or stimuli representing the outcome of task-related decision processes to facilitate ensuing behaviours and help optimize task performance. Nevertheless, the cellular mechanisms underlying the generation and regulation of phasic LC activation remain unknown. We report here that LC-NA neurons recorded in brain slices exhibit bursts of action potentials that resembled the phasic activation-pause profile observed in animals. The activity was referred to as phasic-like activity (PLA) and was suppressed and enhanced by blocking excitatory and inhibitory synaptic transmissions, respectively. These results suggest the existence of a local circuit to drive PLA, and the activity could be regulated by the excitatory-inhibitory balance of the circuit. In support of this notion, we located a population of inhibitory interneurons (I-INs) in the medial part of the peri-LC that exerted feedforward inhibition of LC-NA neurons through GABAergic and glycinergic transmissions. Selective inhibition of peri-LC I-INs with chemogenetic methods could enhance PLA in brain slices and increase prepulse inhibition in animals. Moreover, axons from the orbitofrontal and prelimbic cortices, which play important roles in evaluating the cost/reward of a stimulus, synapse on both peri-LC I-INs and LC-NA neurons. These observations demonstrate functional roles of peri-LC I-INs in integrating inputs of the frontal cortex onto LC-NA neurons and gating the phasic LC output.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao-Cheng Kuo
- Department of Life Science, College of Life Science, National Taiwan University, Taipei, 10617, Taiwan
| | - Jung-Chien Hsieh
- Department of Life Science, College of Life Science, National Taiwan University, Taipei, 10617, Taiwan
| | - Hsing-Chun Tsai
- Department of Life Science, College of Life Science, National Taiwan University, Taipei, 10617, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Shan Kuo
- Department of Life Science, College of Life Science, National Taiwan University, Taipei, 10617, Taiwan.,Departments of Biomedical Sciences and Medical Research, Chung-Shan Medical University and Chung-Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung, 40201, Taiwan
| | - Hau-Jie Yau
- Graduate Institute of Brain and Mind Sciences, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, 10051, Taiwan
| | - Chih-Cheng Chen
- Institute of Biomedical Science, Academia Sinica, Taipei, 11529, Taiwan
| | - Ruei-Feng Chen
- Department of Life Science, College of Life Science, National Taiwan University, Taipei, 10617, Taiwan
| | - Hsiu-Wen Yang
- Departments of Biomedical Sciences and Medical Research, Chung-Shan Medical University and Chung-Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung, 40201, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Yuan Min
- Department of Life Science, College of Life Science, National Taiwan University, Taipei, 10617, Taiwan
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Jeng JS, Li CT, Lin HC, Tsai SJ, Bai YM, Su TP, Chang YW, Cheng CM. Antidepressant-resistant depression is characterized by reduced short- and long-interval cortical inhibition. Psychol Med 2020; 50:1285-1291. [PMID: 31155020 DOI: 10.1017/s0033291719001223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Major depressive disorder (MDD) is highly heterogeneous and can be classified as treatment-resistant depression (TRD) or antidepressant-responsive depression (non-TRD) based on patients' responses to antidepressant treatment. Methods for distinguishing between TRD and non-TRD are critical clinical concerns. Deficits of cortical inhibition (CI) have been reported to play an influential role in the pathophysiology of MDD. Whether TRD patients' CI is more impaired than that of non-TRD patients remains unclear. METHODS Paired-pulse transcranial magnetic stimulation (ppTMS) was used to measure cortical inhibitory function including GABAA- and GABAB-receptor-related CI and cortical excitatory function including glutamate-receptor-related intracortical facilitation (ICF). We recruited 36 healthy controls (HC) and 36 patients with MDD (non-TRD, n = 16; TRD, n = 20). All participants received evaluations for depression severity and ppTMS examinations. Non-TRD patients received an additional ppTMS examination after 3 months of treatment with the SSRI escitalopram. RESULTS Patients with TRD exhibited reduced short-interval intracortical inhibition (SICI) and long-interval intracortical inhibition (LICI), as shown by abnormally higher estimates, than those with non-TRD or HC (F = 11.030, p < 0.001; F = 10.309, p < 0.001, respectively). After an adequate trial of escitalopram treatment, the LICI of non-TRD reduced significantly (t = - 3.628, p < 0.001), whereas the ICF remained lower than that of HC and showed no difference from pretreatment non-TRD. CONCLUSIONS TRD was characterized by relatively reduced CI, including both GABAA- and GABAB-receptor-mediated neurons while non-TRD preserved partial CI. In non-TRD, SSRIs may mainly modulate GABAB-receptor-related LICI. Our findings revealed distinguishable features of CI in antidepressant-resistant and responsive major depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia-Shyun Jeng
- Department of Psychiatry, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Cheng-Ta Li
- Department of Psychiatry, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
- Division of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Institute of Brain Science and Brain Research Center, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience, National Central University, Jhongli, Taiwan
| | - Hui-Ching Lin
- Department and Institute of Physiology, School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Shih-Jen Tsai
- Department of Psychiatry, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
- Division of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ya-Mei Bai
- Department of Psychiatry, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
- Division of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Institute of Brain Science and Brain Research Center, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Tung-Ping Su
- Department of Psychiatry, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
- Division of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Institute of Brain Science and Brain Research Center, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Psychiatry, Cheng-Hsin General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Wen Chang
- Department of Psychiatry, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chih-Ming Cheng
- Department of Psychiatry, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
- Division of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Institute of Brain Science and Brain Research Center, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Taipei Veterans General Hospital Yuan Shan branch, Yilan, Taiwan
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10
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The involvement of GABAergic system in the antidepressant-like effect of agmatine. Naunyn Schmiedebergs Arch Pharmacol 2020; 393:1931-1939. [DOI: 10.1007/s00210-020-01910-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2019] [Accepted: 05/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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11
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Extracellular Signal-Regulated Kinases Mediate an Autoregulation of GABA B-Receptor-Activated Whole-Cell Current in Locus Coeruleus Neurons. Sci Rep 2020; 10:7869. [PMID: 32398643 PMCID: PMC7217949 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-64292-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2019] [Accepted: 04/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
The norepinephrine-releasing neurons in the locus coeruleus (LC) are well known to regulate wakefulness/arousal. They display active firing during wakefulness and a decreased discharge rate during sleep. We have previously reported that LC neurons express large numbers of GABAB receptors (GABABRs) located at peri-/extrasynaptic sites and are subject to tonic inhibition due to the continuous activation of GABABRs by ambient GABA, which is significantly higher during sleep than during wakefulness. In this study, we further showed using western blot analysis that the activation of GABABRs with baclofen could increase the level of phosphorylated extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1 (ERK1) in LC tissue. Recordings from LC neurons in brain slices showed that the inhibition of ERK1/2 with U0126 and FR180204 accelerated the decay of whole-cell membrane current induced by prolonged baclofen application. In addition, the inhibition of ERK1/2 also increased spontaneous firing and reduced tonic inhibition of LC neurons after prolonged exposure to baclofen. These results suggest a new role of GABABRs in mediating ERK1-dependent autoregulation of the stability of GABABR-activated whole-cell current, in addition to its well-known effect on gated potassium channels, to cause a tonic current in LC neurons.
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GABAB receptor-mediated tonic inhibition of locus coeruleus neurons plays a role in deep anesthesia induced by isoflurane. Neuroreport 2020; 31:557-564. [PMID: 32282581 DOI: 10.1097/wnr.0000000000001450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Noradrenergic neurons in the locus coeruleus referred to as locus coeruleus neurons, provide the major supply of norepinephrine to the forebrain and play important roles in behavior through regulation of wakefulness and arousal. In a previous study using brain slice preparations, we reported that locus coeruleus neurons are subject to tonic inhibition mediated by γ-aminobutyric acid B receptors (GABABRs) and that the extent of tonic inhibition varies with ambient GABA levels. Since ambient GABA in the locus coeruleus was reported to fluctuate during the sleep-wakefulness cycle, here we tested whether GABABR-mediated tonic inhibition of locus coeruleus neurons could be a mechanism underlying changes in brain arousal. We first demonstrated that GABABR-mediated tonic inhibition of locus coeruleus neurons also exists in vivo by showing that local infusion of CGP35348, a GABABR antagonist, into the locus coeruleus increased the firing rate of locus coeruleus neurons in anesthetized rats. We then showed that this manipulation accelerated the behavioral emergence of rats from deep anesthesia induced by isoflurane. Together, these observations show that GABABR-mediated tonic inhibition of locus coeruleus neurons occurs in vivo and support the idea that this effect may be important in regulating the functional state of the brain.
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Norepinephrine, neurodevelopment and behavior. Neurochem Int 2020; 135:104706. [PMID: 32092327 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuint.2020.104706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2020] [Revised: 02/14/2020] [Accepted: 02/16/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Neurotransmitters play critical roles in the developing nervous system. Among the neurotransmitters, norepinephrine (NE) is in particular postulated to be an important regulator of brain development. NE is expressed during early stages of development and is known to regulate both the development of noradrenergic neurons and the development of target areas. NE participates in the shaping and the wiring of the nervous system during the critical periods of development, and perturbations in this process can alter the brain's developmental trajectory, which in turn can cause long-lasting and even permanent changes in the brain function and behavior later in life. Here we will briefly review evidence for the role of noradrenergic system in neurodevelopmental processes and will discuss about the potential disruptors of noradrenergic system during development and their behavioral consequences.
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Participation of GABA B Receptors of Parafacial Respiratory Group in the Regulation of Respiration in Rats. Bull Exp Biol Med 2019; 168:24-27. [PMID: 31745683 DOI: 10.1007/s10517-019-04637-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2019] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
The respiratory effects of microinjections of baclofen and 2-hydroxysaclofen into the parafacial respiratory group were studied in experiments on rats. It was shown that activation of GABAB receptors of the parafacial respiratory group suppressed external respiration due to a decrease in the tidal volume and inspiratory flow rate. In parallel, we observed a decrease in the amplitude and an increase in the duration of inspiratory bursts of the diaphragm. Injection of GABAB receptor blocker into the parafacial respiratory group increased pulmonary ventilation due to an increase in volumetric parameters of the inspiratory phase. This effect was accompanied by prolongation of expiration and lengthening of the intervals between the inspiratory bursts of the diaphragm. These results suggest that GABAB receptors of the parafacial respiratory group are an important element of the central mechanisms regulating the volumetric respiratory parameters and are involved in the regulation of the phases of the respiratory cycle.
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Yoga: Balancing the excitation-inhibition equilibrium in psychiatric disorders. PROGRESS IN BRAIN RESEARCH 2019; 244:387-413. [PMID: 30732846 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pbr.2018.10.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Social behavioral disturbances are central to most psychiatric disorders. A disequilibrium within the cortical excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmitter systems underlies these deficits. Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and glutamate are the most abundant excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmitters in the brain that contribute to this equilibrium. Several contemporary therapies used in treating psychiatric disorders, regulate this GABA-glutamate balance. Yoga has been studied as an adjuvant treatment across a broad range of psychiatric disorders and is shown to have short-term therapeutic gains. Emerging evidence from recent clinical in vivo experiments suggests that yoga improves GABA-mediated cortical-inhibitory tone and enhances peripheral oxytocin levels. This is likely to have a more controlled downstream response of the hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal system by means of reduced cortisol release and hence a blunted sympathetic response to stress. Animal and early fetal developmental studies suggest an inter-dependent role of oxytocin and GABA in regulating social behaviors. In keeping with these observations, we propose an integrated neurobiological model to study the mechanisms of therapeutic benefits with yoga. Apart from providing a neuroscientific basis for applying a traditional system of practice in the clinical setting, this model can be used as a framework for studying yoga mechanisms in future clinical trials.
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Association of mGluR-Dependent LTD of Excitatory Synapses with Endocannabinoid-Dependent LTD of Inhibitory Synapses Leads to EPSP to Spike Potentiation in CA1 Pyramidal Neurons. J Neurosci 2018; 39:224-237. [PMID: 30459224 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.2935-17.2018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2017] [Revised: 10/16/2018] [Accepted: 11/08/2018] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The input-output relationships in neural circuits are determined not only by synaptic efficacy but also by neuronal excitability. Activity-dependent alterations of synaptic efficacy have been extensively investigated, but relatively less is known about how the neuronal output is modulated when synaptic efficacy changes are associated with neuronal excitability changes. In this study, we demonstrate that paired pulses of low-frequency stimulation (PP-LFS) induced metabotropic glutamate receptor (mGluR)-dependent LTD at Schaffer collateral (SC)-CA1 synapses in Sprague Dawley rats (both sexes), and this LTD was associated with EPSP to spike (E-S) potentiation, leading to the increase in action potential (AP) outputs. Threshold voltage (Vth) for APs evoked by synaptic stimulation and that by somatic current injection were hyperpolarized significantly after PP-LFS. Blockers of GABA receptors mimicked and occluded PP-LFS effects on E-S potentiation and Vth hyperpolarization, suggesting that suppression of GABAergic mechanisms is involved in E-S potentiation after PP-LFS. Indeed, IPSCs and tonic inhibitory currents were reduced after PP-LFS. The IPSC reduction was accompanied by increased paired-pulse ratio, and abolished by AM251, a blocker for Type 1 cannabinoid receptors, suggesting that PP-LFS suppresses presynaptic GABA release by mGluR-dependent endocannabinoids signaling. By contrast, a Group 1 mGluR agonist, 3, 5-dihydroxyphenylglycine, induced LTD at SC-CA1 synapses but failed to induce significant IPSC reduction and AP output increase. We propose that mGluR signaling that induces LTD coexpression at excitatory and inhibitory synapses regulates an excitation-inhibition balance to increase neuronal output in CA1 neurons.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Long-lasting forms of synaptic plasticity are usually associated with excitability changes, the ability to fire action potentials. However, excitability changes have been regarded to play subsidiary roles to synaptic plasticity in modifying neuronal output. We demonstrate that, when metabotropic glutamate receptor-dependent LTD is induced by paired pulses of low-frequency stimulation, the action potential output in response to a given input paradoxically increases, indicating that increased excitability is more powerful than synaptic depression. This increase is mediated by the suppression of a presynaptic GABA release via metabotropic glutamate receptor-dependent endocannabinoid signaling. Our study shows that neuronal output changes do not always follow the direction of synaptic plasticity at excitatory synapses, highlighting the importance of regulating inhibitory tone via endocannabinoid signaling.
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Cholinergic and glutamatergic transmission at synapses between pedunculopotine tegmental nucleus axonal terminals and A7 catecholamine cell group noradrenergic neurons in the rat. Neuropharmacology 2016; 110:237-250. [PMID: 27422407 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2016.07.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2015] [Revised: 06/23/2016] [Accepted: 07/11/2016] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
We characterized transmission from the pedunculopotine tegmental nucleus (PPTg), which contains cholinergic and glutamatergic neurons, at synapses with noradrenergic (NAergic) A7 neurons. Injection of an anterograde neuronal tracer, biotinylated-dextran amine, into the PPTg resulted in labeling of axonal terminals making synaptic connection with NAergic A7 neurons. Consistent with this, extracellular stimulation using a train of 10 pulses at 100 Hz evoked both fast and slow excitatory synaptic currents (EPSCs) that were blocked, respectively, by DNQX, a non-N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor blocker, or atropine, a cholinergic muscarinic receptor (mAChR) blocker. Interestingly, many spontaneous-like, but stimulation-dependent, EPSCs, were seen for up to one second after the end of stimulation and were blocked by DNQX and decreased by EGTA-AM, a membrane permeable form of EGTA, showing they are glutamatergic EPSCs causing by asynchronous release of vesicular quanta. Moreover, application of atropine or carbachol, an mAChR agonist, caused, respectively, an increase in the number of asynchronous EPSCs or a decrease in the frequency of miniature EPSCs, showing that mAChRs mediated presynaptic inhibition of glutamatergic transmission of the PPTg onto NAergic A7 neurons. In conclusion, our data show direct synaptic transmission of PPTg afferents onto pontine NAergic neurons that involves cooperation of cholinergic and glutamatergic transmission. This dual-transmitter transmission drives the firing rate of NAergic neurons, which may correlate with axonal and somatic/dendritic release of NA.
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Rosa PB, Neis VB, Ribeiro CM, Moretti M, Rodrigues ALS. Antidepressant-like effects of ascorbic acid and ketamine involve modulation of GABAA and GABAB receptors. Pharmacol Rep 2016; 68:996-1001. [PMID: 27423525 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharep.2016.05.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2016] [Revised: 05/22/2016] [Accepted: 05/23/2016] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND It has been suggested that dysregulation of γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA)-mediated neurotransmission is involved in the etiology of major depressive disorder and in the action of the fast-acting antidepressant ketamine. Considering that recent evidence has suggested that ascorbic acid may exert an antidepressant-like effect through mechanisms similar to ketamine, this study evaluated the involvement of GABAA and GABAB receptors in the antidepressant-like effect of ascorbic acid, comparing the results with those obtained with ketamine. METHODS To investigate the involvement of GABAA in the antidepressant-like effect of ascorbic acid and ketamine in the tail suspension test (TST), mice were treated with a sub-effective dose of ascorbic acid (0.1mg/kg, po), ketamine (0.1mg/kg, ip) or vehicle and 30minutes later, a sub-effective dose of muscimol (0.1mg/kg, ip, GABAA receptor agonist) or vehicle was administered. In another set of experiments, mice were treated with ascorbic acid (1mg/kg, po, active dose in the TST) or vehicle and 30minutes later, baclofen (1mg/kg, ip, GABAB receptor agonist) was administered. A similar experimental protocol was performed with ketamine (1mg/kg, ip). RESULTS The administration of muscimol combined with ascorbic acid or ketamine produced a synergistic antidepressant-like effect in the TST. Moreover, the antidepressant-like effects of ascorbic acid and ketamine were abolished by baclofen. There was no alteration in spontaneous locomotion in any experimental group. CONCLUSIONS Results indicate that the anti-immobility effect of ascorbic acid and ketamine in TST may involve an activation of GABAA receptors and a possible inhibition of GABAB receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priscila B Rosa
- Department of Biochemistry, Center of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, 88040-900, SC, Brazil
| | - Vivian B Neis
- Department of Biochemistry, Center of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, 88040-900, SC, Brazil
| | - Camille M Ribeiro
- Department of Biochemistry, Center of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, 88040-900, SC, Brazil
| | - Morgana Moretti
- Post-Graduate Nutrition Program, Center of Health Sciences, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, 88040-900, SC, Brazil
| | - Ana Lúcia S Rodrigues
- Department of Biochemistry, Center of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, 88040-900, SC, Brazil.
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