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Do Carmo S, Kannel B, Cuello AC. The Nerve Growth Factor Metabolic Pathway Dysregulation as Cause of Alzheimer's Cholinergic Atrophy. Cells 2021; 11:16. [PMID: 35011577 PMCID: PMC8750266 DOI: 10.3390/cells11010016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2021] [Revised: 12/17/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The cause of the loss of basal forebrain cholinergic neurons (BFCNs) and their terminal synapses in the cerebral cortex and hippocampus in Alzheimer's disease (AD) has provoked a decades-long controversy. The cholinergic phenotype of this neuronal system, involved in numerous cognitive mechanisms, is tightly dependent on the target-derived nerve growth factor (NGF). Consequently, the loss of BFCNs cholinergic phenotype in AD was initially suspected to be due to an NGF trophic failure. However, in AD there is a normal NGF synthesis and abundance of the NGF precursor (proNGF), therefore the NGF trophic failure hypothesis for the atrophy of BCNs was abandoned. In this review, we discuss the history of NGF-dependency of BFCNs and the atrophy of these neurons in Alzheimer's disease (AD). Further to it, we propose that trophic factor failure explains the BFCNs atrophy in AD. We discuss evidence of the occurrence of a brain NGF metabolic pathway, the dysregulation of which, in AD explains the severe deficiency of NGF trophic support for the maintenance of BFCNs cholinergic phenotype. Finally, we revise recent evidence that the NGF metabolic dysregulation in AD pathology starts at preclinical stages. We also propose that the alteration of NGF metabolism-related markers in body fluids might assist in the AD preclinical diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonia Do Carmo
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3G 1Y6, Canada;
| | - Benjamin Kannel
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3A 2B4, Canada;
| | - A. Claudio Cuello
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3G 1Y6, Canada;
- Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3A 2B4, Canada;
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3A 0C7, Canada
- Department of Pharmacology, Oxford University, Oxford OX1 3QT, UK
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Velasco B, Mohamed E, Sato-Bigbee C. Endogenous and exogenous opioid effects on oligodendrocyte biology and developmental brain myelination. Neurotoxicol Teratol 2021; 86:107002. [PMID: 34126203 DOI: 10.1016/j.ntt.2021.107002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2020] [Revised: 05/26/2021] [Accepted: 06/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The elevated presence of opioid receptors and their ligands throughout the developing brain points to the existence of maturational functions of the endogenous opioid system that still remain poorly understood. The alarmingly increasing rates of opioid use and abuse underscore the urgent need for clear identification of those functions and the cellular bases and molecular mechanisms underlying their physiological roles under normal and pathological conditions. This review is focused on current knowledge on the direct and indirect regulatory roles that opioids may have on oligodendrocyte development and their generation of myelin, a complex insulating membrane that not only facilitates rapid impulse conduction but also participates in mechanisms of brain plasticity and adaptation. Information is examined in relation to the importance of endogenous opioid function, as well as direct and indirect effects of opioid analogues, which like methadone and buprenorphine are used in medication-assisted therapies for opioid addiction during pregnancy and pharmacotherapy in neonatal abstinence syndrome. Potential opioid effects are also discussed regarding late myelination of the brain prefrontal cortex in adolescents and young adults. Such knowledge is fundamental for the design of safer pharmacological interventions for opioid abuse, minimizing deleterious effects in the developing nervous system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brandon Velasco
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, VA 23298, USA
| | - Esraa Mohamed
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, VA 23298, USA
| | - Carmen Sato-Bigbee
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, VA 23298, USA.
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Poon CH, Wang Y, Fung ML, Zhang C, Lim LW. Rodent Models of Amyloid-Beta Feature of Alzheimer's Disease: Development and Potential Treatment Implications. Aging Dis 2020; 11:1235-1259. [PMID: 33014535 PMCID: PMC7505263 DOI: 10.14336/ad.2019.1026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2019] [Accepted: 10/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common neurodegenerative disorder worldwide and causes severe financial and social burdens. Despite much research on the pathogenesis of AD, the neuropathological mechanisms remain obscure and current treatments have proven ineffective. In the past decades, transgenic rodent models have been used to try to unravel this disease, which is crucial for early diagnosis and the assessment of disease-modifying compounds. In this review, we focus on transgenic rodent models used to study amyloid-beta pathology in AD. We also discuss their possible use as promising tools for AD research. There is still no effective treatment for AD and the development of potent therapeutics are urgently needed. Many molecular pathways are susceptible to AD, ranging from neuroinflammation, immune response, and neuroplasticity to neurotrophic factors. Studying these pathways may shed light on AD pathophysiology as well as provide potential targets for the development of more effective treatments. This review discusses the advantages and limitations of these models and their potential therapeutic implications for AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chi Him Poon
- 1School of Biomedical Sciences, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Yingyi Wang
- 1School of Biomedical Sciences, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Man-Lung Fung
- 1School of Biomedical Sciences, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Chengfei Zhang
- 2Endodontology, Faculty of Dentistry, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Lee Wei Lim
- 1School of Biomedical Sciences, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
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Chen XQ, Mobley WC. Exploring the Pathogenesis of Alzheimer Disease in Basal Forebrain Cholinergic Neurons: Converging Insights From Alternative Hypotheses. Front Neurosci 2019; 13:446. [PMID: 31133787 PMCID: PMC6514132 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2019.00446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2019] [Accepted: 04/18/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer disease (AD) represents an oncoming epidemic that without an effective treatment promises to exact extraordinary financial and emotional burdens (Apostolova, 2016). Studies of pathogenesis are essential for defining critical molecular and cellular events and for discovering therapies to prevent or mitigate their effects. Through studies of neuropathology, genetic and cellular, and molecular biology recent decades have provided many important insights. Several hypotheses have been suggested. Documentation in the 1980s of selective loss of cholinergic neurons of the basal forebrain, followed by clinical improvement in those treated with inhibitors of acetylycholinesterase, supported the "cholinergic hypothesis of age-related cognitive dysfunction" (Bartus et al., 1982). A second hypothesis, prompted by the selective loss of cholinergic neurons and the discovery of central nervous system (CNS) neurotrophic factors, including nerve growth factor (NGF), prompted the "deficient neurotrophic hypothesis" (Chen et al., 2018). The most persuasive hypothesis, the amyloid cascade hypothesis first proposed more than 25 years ago (Selkoe and Hardy, 2016), is supported by a wealth of observations. Genetic studies were exceptionally important, pointing to increased dose of the gene for the amyloid precursor protein (APP) in Down syndrome (DS) and a familial AD (FAD) due to duplication of APP and to mutations in APP and in the genes for Presenilin 1 and 2 (PSEN1, 2), which encode the γ-secretase enzyme that processes APP (Dorszewska et al., 2016). The "tau hypothesis" noted the prominence of tau-related pathology and its correlation with dementia (Kametani and Hasegawa, 2018). Recent interest in induction of microglial activation in the AD brain, as well as other manifestations of inflammation, supports the "inflammatory hypothesis" (Mcgeer et al., 2016). We place these findings in the context of the selective, but by no means unique, involvement of BFCNs and their trophic dependence on NGF signaling and speculate as to how pathogenesis in these neurons is initiated, amplified and ultimately results in their dysfunction and death. In so doing we attempt to show how the different hypotheses for AD may interact and reinforce one another. Finally, we address current attempts to prevent and/or treat AD in light of advances in understanding pathogenetic mechanisms and suggest that studies in the DS population may provide unique insights into AD pathogenesis and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xu-Qiao Chen
- Department of Neurosciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - William C. Mobley
- Department of Neurosciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
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Shannon KM, Kordower JH. Neural Transplantation for Huntington's Disease: Experimental Rationale and Recommendations for Clinical Trials. Cell Transplant 2017; 5:339-52. [PMID: 8689044 DOI: 10.1177/096368979600500222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Huntington's disease (HD) is a neurodegenerative disorder affecting motor function, personality, and cognition. This paper reviews the experimental data that demonstrate the potential for transplantation of fetal striatum and trophic factor secreting cells to serve as innovative treatment strategies for HD. Transplantation strategies have been effective in replacing lost neurons or preventing the degeneration of neurons destined to die in both rodent and nonhuman primate models of HD. In this regard, a logical series of investigations has proven that grafts of fetal striatum survive, reinnervate the host, and restore function impaired following excitotoxic lesions of the striatum. Furthermore, transplants of cells genetically modified to secrete trophic factors such as nerve growth factor protect striatal neurons from degeneration due to excitotoxicity or mitochondrial dysfunction. Given the disabling and progressive nature of HD, coupled with the absence of any meaningful medical therapy, it is reasonable to consider clinical trials of neural transplantation for this disease. Fetal striatal implants will most likely be the first transplant strategy attempted for HD. This paper describes the variable parameters we believe to be critical for consideration for the design of clinical trials using fetal striatal implants for the treatment of HD.
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Affiliation(s)
- K M Shannon
- Research Center for Brain Repair, Rush-Presbyterian-St. Luke's Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
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Allaway KC, Machold R. Developmental specification of forebrain cholinergic neurons. Dev Biol 2016; 421:1-7. [PMID: 27847324 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2016.11.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2016] [Revised: 11/10/2016] [Accepted: 11/11/2016] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Striatal cholinergic interneurons and basal forebrain cholinergic projection neurons, which together comprise the forebrain cholinergic system, regulate attention, memory, reward pathways, and motor activity through the neuromodulation of multiple brain circuits. The importance of these neurons in the etiology of neurocognitive disorders has been well documented, but our understanding of their specification during embryogenesis is still incomplete. All forebrain cholinergic projection neurons and interneurons appear to share a common developmental origin in the embryonic ventral telencephalon, a region that also gives rise to GABAergic projection neurons and interneurons. Significant progress has been made in identifying the key intrinsic and extrinsic factors that promote a cholinergic fate in this precursor population. However, how cholinergic interneurons and projection neurons differentiate from one another during development, as well as how distinct developmental programs contribute to heterogeneity within those two classes, is not yet well understood. In this review we summarize the transcription factors and signaling molecules known to play a role in the specification and early development of striatal and basal forebrain cholinergic neurons. We also discuss the heterogeneity of these populations and its possible developmental origins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn C Allaway
- NYU Neuroscience Institute and the Department of Neuroscience and Physiology, Smilow Research Center, New York University School of Medicine, 522 First Avenue, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Robert Machold
- NYU Neuroscience Institute and the Department of Neuroscience and Physiology, Smilow Research Center, New York University School of Medicine, 522 First Avenue, New York, NY 10016, USA.
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Hou XQ, Zhang L, Yang C, Rong CP, He WQ, Zhang CX, Li S, Su RY, Chang X, Qin JH, Chen YB, Xian SX, Wang Q. Alleviating effects of Bushen-Yizhi formula on ibotenic acid-induced cholinergic impairments in rat. Rejuvenation Res 2016; 18:111-27. [PMID: 25482164 DOI: 10.1089/rej.2014.1603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
This study explored the curative effect and underlying mechanisms of a traditional Chinese medicine compound prescription, Bushen-Yizhi formula (BSYZ), in ibotenic acid (IBO)-induced rats. Morris water maze and novel object recognition tests showed that BSYZ significantly improved spatial and object memory. Brain immunohistochemistry staining showed that BSYZ significantly up-regulated expression of choline acetyltransferase (ChAT) and nerve growth factor (NGF) in the hippocampus and cortex. The protein tyrosine kinase high-affinity receptor TrkA was slightly increased in the hippocampus and cortex, and significantly enhanced in the nucleus basalis of Meynert (NBM) after BSYZ intervention. The immunoreactivity of the p75 low-affinity receptor in BSYZ-treated rats was significantly strengthened in the cortex. Similar expression trends of nerve growth factor (NGF), TrkA, and p75 mRNA were observed in the hippocampus and cortex. Additionally, BSYZ reversed IBO-induced disorders of acetylcholine (ACh) levels, ChAT, and cholinesterase (ChE) in the cortex, which was consistent with the changes in mRNA levels of ChAT and acetylcholinesterase (AChE). Expression of ChAT and AChE proteins and mRNA in the hippocampus was up-regulated, whereas the apoptosis-relative protein cleaved caspase-3 was decreased after administration of BSYZ. Moreover, changes in cell death were confirmed by histological morphology. Thus, the results indicated that the BSYZ formula could ameliorate memory impairments in IBO-induced rats, and it exerted its therapeutic action probably by modulating cholinergic pathways, NGF signaling, and anti-apoptosis. Overall, it is suggested that the BSYZ formula might be a potential therapeutic approach for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease (AD) and other cholinergic impairment-related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue-Qin Hou
- 1 DME Center, Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine , Guangzhou, China
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Briyal S, Nguyen C, Leonard M, Gulati A. Stimulation of endothelin B receptors by IRL-1620 decreases the progression of Alzheimer's disease. Neuroscience 2015; 301:1-11. [PMID: 26022359 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2015.05.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2015] [Revised: 05/08/2015] [Accepted: 05/18/2015] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by severe cognitive impairment that ultimately leads to death. Endothelin (ET) and its receptors have been considered as therapeutic targets for AD. Recent studies in our lab have shown that stimulation of ETB receptors provide significant neuroprotection following Aβ1-40 administration. It is possible that IRL-1620 may be neuroprotective due to angiogenesis. However, the effect of IRL-1620 on neurovascular remodeling following Aβ1-40 administration has not been established. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of stimulation of ETB receptors by IRL-1620 on vascular and neuronal growth factors after Aβ1-40 administration. Rats were treated with Aβ1-40 (day 1, 7 and 14) in the lateral cerebral ventricles using stereotaxically implanted cannula and received three intravenous injections of IRL-1620 (an ETB agonist), and/or BQ788 (an ETB antagonist) at 2-h interval on day 8; experiments were performed on day 15. Rats were sacrificed for estimation of brain ETB receptors, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and nerve growth factor (NGF) expression using immunofluorescence and Western blot. In the Morris swim task, amyloid-β (Aβ)-treated rats showed a significant (p<0.0001) impairment in spatial memory. Rats treated with IRL-1620 significantly (p<0.001) reduced the cognitive impairment induced by Aβ. BQ788 treatment completely blocked IRL-1620-induced improvement in cognitive impairment. IRL-1620 treatment enhanced the number of blood vessels labeled with VEGF compared to vehicle treatment. Additionally, cells showed increased (p<0.001) positive staining for NGF in IRL-1620-treated animals. ETB, VEGF and NGF protein expression significantly (p<0.001) increased in the brain of IRL-1620-treated rats as compared to vehicle. Pretreatment with BQ788 blocked the effects of IRL-1620, thus confirming the role of ETB receptors in the neurovascular remodeling actions of IRL-1620. Results of the present study demonstrate that IRL-1620 improves both acquisition (learning) and retention (memory) on the water maze task and enhances angiogenic and neurogenic remodeling. These findings indicate that the ETB receptor may be a novel therapeutic target for AD and other neurovascular degenerative disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Briyal
- Chicago College of Pharmacy, Midwestern University, Downers Grove, IL 60515, USA
| | - C Nguyen
- Chicago College of Health Sciences, Midwestern University, Downers Grove, IL 60515, USA
| | - M Leonard
- Chicago College of Pharmacy, Midwestern University, Downers Grove, IL 60515, USA
| | - A Gulati
- Chicago College of Pharmacy, Midwestern University, Downers Grove, IL 60515, USA.
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Hong YP, Lee HC, Kim HT. Treadmill exercise after social isolation increases the levels of NGF, BDNF, and synapsin I to induce survival of neurons in the hippocampus, and improves depression-like behavior. J Exerc Nutrition Biochem 2015; 19:11-8. [PMID: 25960950 PMCID: PMC4424441 DOI: 10.5717/jenb.2015.19.1.11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2015] [Revised: 02/01/2015] [Accepted: 02/05/2015] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
[Purpose] We investigated the effects of 8 weeks of treadmill exercise on nerve growth factor (NGF), brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), and synapsin I protein expression and on the number of 5-bromo-2'-deoxyuridine-5'-mono-phosphate (BrdU)-positive cells in the dentate gyrus of the hippocampus in socially isolated rats. Additionally, we examined the effects of exercise on the number of serotonin (5-HT)- and tryptophan hydroxylase (TPH)-positive cells in the raphe nuclei and on depression behaviors induced by social isolation. [Methods] Forty male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into four groups: (1) group housing and control group (GCG, n = 10); (2) group housing and exercise group (GEG, n = 10); (3) isolated housing and control group (ICG, n = 10); and (4) isolated housing and exercise group (IEG, n = 10). After 1 week of housing under the normal condition of 3 animals per cage, rats were socially isolated via transfer to individual cages for 8 weeks. Rats were then subjected to treadmill exercise for 5 days per week for 8 weeks during which time the speed of the treadmill was gradually increased. [Results] Compared to the GCG, levels of NGF, BDNF, and synapsin I were significantly decreased in the ICG and significantly increased in the IEG (p < 0.001 respectively). Significantly more BrdU-positive cells in the GEG were present as compared to the GCG and ICG, and more BrdU-positive cells were found in the IEG as compared to the ICG (p < 0.001). 5-HT-positive cells in the GEG were significantly increased compared to the GCG and ICG, and more of these cells were found in the IEG as compared to the ICG (p < 0.01). TPH-positive cells in the GEG were significantly increased compared to those in the GCG and ICG (p < 0.05). In the forced swim test, immobility time was significantly increased in the ICG and significantly decreased in the IEG as compared to the ICG (p < 0.01). [Conclusion] These results showed that regular treadmill exercise following social isolation not only increased the levels of NGF, BDNF, and synapsin I to induce survival of neurons in the hippocampus but also improved depression by increasing the number of serotonergic cells in the raphe nuclei.
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Affiliation(s)
- Young-Pyo Hong
- Department of Health and Sport Science, Korea National Sport University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hyo-Chul Lee
- Department of Health and Sport Science, Korea National Sport University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hyun-Tae Kim
- Department of Health and Sport Science, Korea National Sport University, Seoul, Korea
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Chae CH, Jung SL, An SH, Park BY, Kim TW, Wang SW, Kim JH, Lee HC, Kim HT. Swimming exercise stimulates neuro-genesis in the subventricular zone via increase in synapsin I and nerve growth factor levels. Biol Sport 2014; 31:309-14. [PMID: 25609889 PMCID: PMC4296841 DOI: 10.5604/20831862.1132130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/01/2014] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In this study, we investigated the effects of 8-weeks of swimming exercise on neurogenesis in the subventricular zone (SVZ) and on the levels of nerve growth factor (NGF) and synapsin I protein in the olfactory bulb (OB) of adult rats at a series of relevant time points (2 days, 1 week, 2 weeks, 4 weeks, 3 months, and 6 months). Ninety-six male Sprague Dawley rats were divided into 2 groups: (1) a control group (COG; n = 48, n = 8 for each time point) and (2) a swimming exercise group (SEG; total n = 48; n = 8 for each time point). SEG performed swimming exercise for 5 days per week over a period of 8 weeks. We found that the number of 5-bromo-2’-deoxyuridine-5’-monophosphate (BrdU)- and doublecortin (DCX)-positive cells was significantly higher in SEG than in COG at all time points (Day 2, Week 1, Week 2, Week 4, Month 3, and Month 6; p < 0.001). Furthermore, NGF and synapsin I protein levels were significantly higher in SEG on Day 2, and Weeks 1, 2, and 4 than in COG (p < 0.05 for each time point). Our findings suggest that regular swimming exercise in adult rats increases neurogenesis, neuronal survival, and neuronal maintenance in the SVZ; furthermore, swimming exercise increases the levels of NGF and synapsin I in the OB.
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Affiliation(s)
- C-H Chae
- Division of Sports and Well-Being, Hanyang University, Sa-3 dong, Sangnok-gu, Ansan 425-791, South of Korea
| | - S-L Jung
- Health Center of Changwon city, Sinwol-dong, Changwon 641-724, South of Korea
| | - S-H An
- Division of Sports and Well-Being, Hanyang University, Sa-3 dong, Sangnok-gu, Ansan 425-791, South of Korea
| | - B-Y Park
- Division of Sports and Well-Being, Hanyang University, Sa-3 dong, Sangnok-gu, Ansan 425-791, South of Korea
| | - T-W Kim
- Division of Sports and Well-Being, Hanyang University, Sa-3 dong, Sangnok-gu, Ansan 425-791, South of Korea
| | - S-W Wang
- Department of Physical of Education, Hanyang University, Haengdang-dong, Seongdong-gu, Seoul 133-791, South of Korea
| | - J-H Kim
- Department of Sport Education in Living, Bucheon College, Simgok-dong, Wonmi-gu, Bucheon 420-735, South Korea
| | - H-C Lee
- Department of Health and Sport Science, Korea National Sport University, Oryun-dong, Songpa-gu, Seoul 138-763, South of Korea
| | - H-T Kim
- Department of Health and Sport Science, Korea National Sport University, Oryun-dong, Songpa-gu, Seoul 138-763, South of Korea
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Acute and Chronic Administration of the Branched-Chain Amino Acids Decreases Nerve Growth Factor in Rat Hippocampus. Mol Neurobiol 2013; 48:581-9. [DOI: 10.1007/s12035-013-8447-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2013] [Accepted: 03/14/2013] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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Bruno MA, Cuello AC. Cortical peroxynitration of nerve growth factor in aged and cognitively impaired rats. Neurobiol Aging 2012; 33:1927-37. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neurobiolaging.2011.09.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2011] [Revised: 09/12/2011] [Accepted: 09/17/2011] [Indexed: 10/15/2022]
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TrkA gene ablation in basal forebrain results in dysfunction of the cholinergic circuitry. J Neurosci 2012; 32:4065-79. [PMID: 22442072 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.6314-11.2012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Dysfunction of basal forebrain cholinergic neurons (BFCNs) is an early pathological hallmark of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Numerous studies have indicated that nerve growth factor (NGF) supports survival and phenotypic differentiation of BFCNs. Consistent with a potential link to AD pathogenesis, TrkA, a NGF receptor, is expressed in cholinergic forebrain neuronal populations including those in BF and striatum, and is markedly reduced in individuals with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) without dementia and early-stage AD. To investigate the role of TrkA in the development, connectivity, and function of the BF cholinergic system and its contribution to AD pathology, we have generated a forebrain-specific conditional TrkA knock-out mouse line. Our findings show a key role for TrkA signaling in establishing the BF cholinergic circuitry through the ERK pathway, and demonstrate that the normal developmental increase of choline acetyltransferase expression becomes critically dependent on TrkA signaling before neuronal connections are established. Moreover, the anatomical and physiological deficits caused by lack of TrkA signaling in BFCNs have selective impact on cognitive activity. These data demonstrate that TrkA loss results in cholinergic BF dysfunction and cognitive decline that is reminiscent of MCI and early AD.
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Abstract
Nerve Growth Factor (NGF) was initially studied for its role as a key player in the regulation of peripheral innervations. However, the successive finding of its release in the bloodstream of male mice following aggressive encounters and its presence in the central nervous system led to the hypothesis that variations in brain NGF levels, caused by psychosocial stressor, and the related alterations in emotionality, could be functional to the development of proper strategies to cope with the stressor itself and thus to survive. Years later this vision is still relevant, and the body of evidence on the role of NGF has been strengthened and expanded from trophic factor playing a role in brain growth and differentiation to a much more complex messenger, involved in psychoneuroendocrine plasticity.
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Treadmill exercise suppresses muscle cell apoptosis by increasing nerve growth factor levels and stimulating p-phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase activation in the soleus of diabetic rats. J Physiol Biochem 2011; 67:235-41. [PMID: 21207218 DOI: 10.1007/s13105-010-0068-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2010] [Accepted: 12/10/2010] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
We investigated the effects of treadmill exercise performed regularly for 6 weeks on the levels of nerve growth factor (NGF), tyrosine kinase A and p75 receptors, phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3-K), mitogen-activated protein kinase/extracellular signal-regulated kinase (Erk) 1,2, cyclic AMP response element-binding protein (CREB), and caspase-3 in the soleus of rats with streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetes. Thirty-two male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into the following four groups: (1) normal control group (NCG; n = 8), (2) normal exercise group (NEG; n = 8), (3) diabetes control group (DCG; n = 8), and (4) diabetes exercise group (DEG; n = 8). Diabetes was induced by intraperitoneal injection of STZ (55 mg/kg dissolved in 0.05 M citrate buffer, pH 4.5). Rats were subjected to treadmill exercise 5 days a week for 6 weeks. The protein level of NGF significantly increased in the NEG and DEG (p < 0.001), whereas the levels of tyrosine kinase A and p75 receptors significantly increased in the NEG (p < 0.001). The levels of t-PI3-K, p-PI3-K, and p-CREB, and the p-CREB/t-CREB ratio significantly increased in the NEG (p < 0.001, respectively). The p-PI3-K/t-PI3-K ratio significantly increased in the DEG (p < 0.001). The p-Erk1/t-Erk1 ratio significantly increased in the NEG (p < 0.001), whereas the p-Erk2/t-Erk2 ratio significantly decreased in the DCG and DEG (p < 0.001). The caspase-3 level significantly increased in the DCG compared with that in the DEG (p < 0.001). These results suggest that treadmill exercise increases NGF levels and accelerates p-PI3-K activation in order to suppress apoptotic cell death in the soleus muscle of diabetic rats.
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Increased Concentrations of Nerve Growth Factor and Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor in the Rat Cerebellum After Exposure to Environmental Enrichment. THE CEREBELLUM 2009; 8:499-506. [DOI: 10.1007/s12311-009-0129-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2009] [Accepted: 08/03/2009] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
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Cirulli F, Alleva E. The NGF saga: from animal models of psychosocial stress to stress-related psychopathology. Front Neuroendocrinol 2009; 30:379-95. [PMID: 19442684 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2009.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 118] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2008] [Revised: 04/17/2009] [Accepted: 05/04/2009] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
The role of the neurotrophins Nerve Growth Factor (NGF) and Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) has been expanding over the last years from trophic factors involved in brain growth and differentiation, to much more complex messengers, involved in psycho-neuro-endocrine adaptations. Much of this research stems from a series of studies inspired by the life-long work of the Nobel laureate Rita Levi-Montalcini. A new field of research started when NGF was found to be released in the bloodstream as a result of psychosocial stressors in male mice. Subsequent studies have shown that, in humans, highly arousing situations also result in increased blood levels of NGF, underlying the unique role of this neurotrophin, compared to other neuroendocrine effectors, and its sensitivity to environmental variables endowed by a social nature. Data are reviewed to support the hypothesis that this neurotrophic factor, together with BDNF, could be involved in the neurobiological changes underlying physiological and pathological reactions to stress that can result in increased vulnerability to disease in humans, including risk for anxiety disorders, or in the complex pathophysiology associated with mood disorders. Indeed, numerous data indicate that neurotrophins are present in brain hypothalamic areas involved in the regulation of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, circadian rhythms and metabolism. In addition, there is now evidence that, in addition to the nervous system, neurotrophins exert their effects in various tissue compartments as they are produced by a variety of non-neuronal cell types such as endocrine and immune cells, adipocytes, endothelial cells, keratinocytes, thus being in a position to coordinate brain and body reactions to external challenges. Aim of this review is to discuss the evidence suggesting a role for neurotrophins as multifunctional signaling molecules activated during allostatic responses to stressful events and their involvement in the complex pathophysiology underlying stress-related psychopathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Cirulli
- Section of Behavioural Neurosciences, Department of Cell Biology and Neurosciences, Istituto Superiore di Sanità Rome, Viale Regina Elena 299, I-00161 Roma, Italy.
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Alleva E, Francia N. Psychiatric vulnerability: Suggestions from animal models and role of neurotrophins. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2009; 33:525-36. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2008.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2007] [Revised: 05/21/2008] [Accepted: 09/03/2008] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
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Zermeño V, Espindola S, Mendoza E, Hernández-Echeagaray E. Differential expression of neurotrophins in postnatal C57BL/6 mice striatum. Int J Biol Sci 2009; 5:118-27. [PMID: 19173033 PMCID: PMC2631221 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.5.118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2008] [Accepted: 01/15/2009] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurotrophin expression in early stages of development is crucial for brain assembly and function. In particular, postnatal expression of neurotrophins has not been well documented in the neostriatum and in general neurotrophins or their receptor mRNA's are normally reported, but not protein expression. In the present study, immunocytochemical expression of BDNF, NT-3 and NT-4/5 was characterized in striatal tissue of C57BL/6 mice at postnatal days 10th (P10), 21st (P21), 42nd (P42) and 80th (P80). We found that the expression of BDNF diminished along the postnatal time course we evaluated, while staining for NT-4 increased up to age P42 and remained constant, thereafter in the cell's soma. In contrast, NT-3 was first expressed in the neostriatal bundles and later on, in neostriatal cell somas. These results provide information about differences in the spatial and temporal expression of each neurotrophin in the neostriatum during the first 80th postnatal days. RT-PCR procedures were also carried out to further determine whether protein levels of neurotrophins observed in the neostriatum were under control of gene expression. All neurotrophin mRNAs were expressed and only mRNABDNF was reduced during the postnatal evaluated days. Differences in temporal expression of neurotrophins may be related to the heterochronic development of neostriatal cell populations, but also with the specificity of each neurotrophin modulating different neuronal targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Zermeño
- Unidad de Biomedicina, FES-I, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Av. De Los Barrios # 1, Los Reyes Iztacala, C. P. 54090 Tlalnepantla, México
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Prenatal choline supplementation increases sensitivity to time by reducing non-scalar sources of variance in adult temporal processing. Brain Res 2007; 1186:242-54. [PMID: 17996223 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2007.10.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2007] [Revised: 10/01/2007] [Accepted: 10/03/2007] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Choline supplementation of the maternal diet has a long-term facilitative effect on timing and temporal memory of the offspring. To further delineate the impact of early nutritional status on interval timing, we examined effects of prenatal choline supplementation on the temporal sensitivity of adult (6 months) male rats. Rats that were given sufficient choline in their chow (CON: 1.1 g/kg) or supplemental choline added to their drinking water (SUP: 3.5 g/kg) during embryonic days (ED) 12-17 were trained with a peak-interval procedure that was shifted among 75%, 50%, and 25% probabilities of reinforcement with transitions from 18 s-->36 s-->72 s temporal criteria. Prenatal choline supplementation systematically sharpened interval timing functions by reducing the associative/non-temporal response enhancing effects of reinforcement probability on the Start response threshold, thereby reducing non-scalar sources of variance in the left-hand portion of the Gaussian-shaped response functions. No effect was observed for the Stop response threshold as a function of any of these manipulations. In addition, independence of peak time and peak rate was demonstrated as a function of reinforcement probability for both prenatal choline-supplemented and control rats. Overall, these results suggest that prenatal choline supplementation facilitates timing by reducing impulsive responding early in the interval, thereby improving the superimposition of peak functions for different temporal criteria.
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Gareau MG, Jury J, Perdue MH. Neonatal maternal separation of rat pups results in abnormal cholinergic regulation of epithelial permeability. Am J Physiol Gastrointest Liver Physiol 2007; 293:G198-203. [PMID: 17510196 DOI: 10.1152/ajpgi.00392.2006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 110] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Neonatal maternal separation (MS) predisposes adult rats to develop stress-induced mucosal barrier dysfunction/visceral hypersensitivity and rat pups to develop colonic epithelial dysfunction. Our aim was to examine if enhanced epithelial permeability in such pups resulted from abnormal regulation by enteric nerves. Pups were separated from the dam for 3 h/day (days 4-20); nonseparated (NS) pups served as controls. On day 20, colonic tissues were removed and mounted in Ussing chambers. Horseradish peroxidase (HRP) flux was used to measure macromolecular permeability. HRP flux was increased in MS versus NS pups. The enhanced flux was inhibited by the cholinergic muscarinic antagonist atropine and the nicotinic antagonist hexamethonium. The cholinergic component was greater in tissues from MS versus NS pups, suggesting that increased cholinergic activity was responsible for the MS elevated permeability. Western blots and immunohistochemistry of colonic tissues demonstrated increased expression of choline acetyltransferase (ChAT) in MS pups, indicating greater synthesis of acetylcholine. Since a previous study indicated that corticotrophin-releasing factor (CRF) mediates barrier dysfunction in MS pups, we examined if the two pathways were linked. In MS tissues, nonselective CRF receptor antagonism inhibited the enhanced flux, and the addition of atropine did not produce further inhibition. Using selective receptor antagonists, we identified that CRF receptor 2 was involved in mediating this effect. These findings suggest that CRF, via CRF receptor 2, acts on cholinergic nerves to induce epithelial barrier dysfunction. Our study provides evidence that MS stimulates synthesis of acetylcholine, which, together with released CRF, creates a condition conducive to the development of epithelial barrier defects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mélanie G Gareau
- The Hospital for Sick Children, 555 University Avenue, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
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Samadi P, Rouillard C, Bédard PJ, Di Paolo T. Functional neurochemistry of the basal ganglia. HANDBOOK OF CLINICAL NEUROLOGY 2007; 83:19-66. [DOI: 10.1016/s0072-9752(07)83002-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
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Tang Y, Yu SG, Luo S, Han T, Yin HY. Neuroprotective effect of electroacupuncture therapy on damaged cholinergic neurons in rats with Alzheimer's disease. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2006; 4:374-7. [PMID: 16834974 DOI: 10.3736/jcim20060411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To explore the neuroprotective effect of electroacupuncture therapy on damaged cholinergic neurons in hippocampus in aged rats with Alzheimer's disease (AD). METHODS Thirty six aged male rats were randomly divided into normal control group, sham-operated group, untreated group and electroacupuncture group. Animal model of AD was established with fimbria-fornix transection. The rats in the electroacupuncture group received electroacupuncture on Baihui (DU 20), Yongquan (KI 1), Taixi (KI 3) and Xuehai (SP10). The activity of choline acetyltransferase (ChAT) in septal area of brain was detected by radioimmunoassay, and the protein expressions of nerve growth factor (NGF) and c-fos in CA3 region of hippocampus were detected by immunohistochemical assay. RESULTS The ChAT activity and the expression levels of NGF and c-fos proteins in the electroacupuncture group were significantly higher than those in the untreated group. CONCLUSION Electroacupuncture therapy can protect cholinergic neurons in hippocampus in aged rats with AD by means of promoting synthesis of c-fos protein and increasing the expression level of NGF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Tang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, West China Center of Medical Science, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province 610041, China
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Jakubowska-Doğru E, Gümüşbaş U. Chronic intracerebroventricular NGF administration improves working memory in young adult memory deficient rats. Neurosci Lett 2005; 382:45-50. [PMID: 15911119 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2005.02.059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2004] [Revised: 02/22/2005] [Accepted: 02/24/2005] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Although the beneficial effects of nerve growth factor (NGF) in age-related memory deficits are well documented, the therapeutic role of this neurotrophin in memory deficits occurring in young subjects remains unclear. In the present study, the effect of chronic NGF administration on spatial working memory was investigated in young adult memory deficient Wistar rats. Memory deficient rats were selected on the basis of their preoperative performance in delayed matching-to-position task (DMTP) carried out in the eight-arm radial maze. The delay between sample and test choices was prolonged stepwise from 10s, to 1, 5, and eventually 15 min. Rats that performance at the longest 15-min delay was at least 3 S.E.M. above the group mean were classified as "poor learners". They were randomly assigned to either Control or NGF group, and treated with either vehicle solution (artificial cerebrospinal fluid) or NGF at the total dose of 40 microg/rat. Intracerebroventricular (icv) drug infusion was made continuously over 28 days at the rate of 0.25 microl/h using Alzet 2004 osmotic mini-pump. The postoperative training included the same stages as the preoperative one. No significant between-group difference in the postoperative performance was noted at the shortest delay of 10s that could be bridged by the immediate memory. Conversely, at all three longer delays, postoperative performance in the NGF group was significantly better compared to control rats. The present study thus shows that NGF may have beneficial effects in memory-deficient young adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ewa Jakubowska-Doğru
- Department of Biological Sciences, Middle-East Technical University, 06531 Ankara, Turkey.
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Richardson CA, Leitch B. Phenotype of cerebellar glutamatergic neurons is altered in stargazer mutant mice lacking brain-derived neurotrophic factor mRNA expression. J Comp Neurol 2005; 481:145-59. [PMID: 15562504 DOI: 10.1002/cne.20386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) influences neuronal survival, differentiation, and maturation. More recently, its role in synapse formation and plasticity has also emerged. In the cerebellum of the spontaneous recessive mutant mouse stargazer (stg) there is a specific and pronounced deficit in BDNF mRNA expression. BDNF protein levels in the cerebellum as a whole are reduced by 70%, while in the granule cells (GCs) there is a selective and near total reduction in BDNF mRNA expression. Recently, we published data demonstrating that inhibitory neurons in the cerebella of stgs have significantly reduced levels (approximately 50%) of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and fewer, smaller inhibitory synapses compared to wildtype (WT) controls. Our current investigations indicate that the stargazer mutation has an even more pronounced effect on the phenotype of glutamatergic neurons in the cerebellum. There is a profound decrease in the levels of glutamate-immunoreactivity (up to 77%) in stg compared to WT controls. The distribution profile of presynaptic vesicles is also markedly different: stgs have proportionally fewer docked vesicles and fewer vesicles located adjacent to the active zone ready to dock than WTs. Furthermore, the thickness of the postsynaptic density (PSD) at mossy fiber-granule cell (MF-GC) and parallel fiber-Purkinje cell (PF-PC) synapses is severely reduced (up to 33% less than WT controls). The number and length of excitatory synapses, however, appear to be relatively unchanged. It is possible that at least some of theses changes in phenotype are directly attributable to the lack of BDNF in the cerebellum of the stg mutant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine A Richardson
- School of Biological & Biomedical Sciences, University of Durham, Durham DH1 3LE, United Kingdom
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Branchi I, Francia N, Alleva E. Epigenetic control of neurobehavioural plasticity: the role of neurotrophins. Behav Pharmacol 2004; 15:353-62. [PMID: 15343058 DOI: 10.1097/00008877-200409000-00006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Nerve growth factor (NGF) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) are two neurotrophins involved in the differentiation, growth and maintenance of selected peripheral and central populations of neuronal cells, during development and at adulthood. Furthermore, neuronal activity enhances expression and action of these neurotrophins, modifying synaptic transmission and connectivity. Neurotrophin production has been shown to be experience-dependent. In particular, during early developmental phases, experiences such as maternal deprivation or exposure to an enriched environment markedly affect NGF and BDNF levels. At adulthood, psychosocial stress has been shown to markedly alter NGF and BDNF levels, both in plasma and selected brain areas, including the hypothalamus and hippocampus. These results have been extended to humans, showing that NGF levels are enhanced by emotional stress induced by parachute jumping. Overall, these findings suggest a role of neurotrophins as factors mediating both short- and long-term effects of experience on brain structure and function.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Branchi
- Section of Behavioural Neurosciences, Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy.
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Barreau F, Cartier C, Ferrier L, Fioramonti J, Bueno L. Nerve growth factor mediates alterations of colonic sensitivity and mucosal barrier induced by neonatal stress in rats. Gastroenterology 2004; 127:524-34. [PMID: 15300585 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2004.05.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 128] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Maternal deprivation (MD) increases nerve growth factor (NGF) expression and colonic mast cell density and alters visceral sensitivity. This study aimed to establish whether NGF overexpression induced by neonatal stress is involved in altered visceral sensitivity and gut mucosal integrity in adult rats. METHODS Male Wistar rat pups were either submitted to MD and treated with anti-NGF antibodies or left with their dam and treated daily with NGF. All rats were tested 10 weeks later for visceral sensitivity and 12 weeks later for gut permeability, myeloperoxidase activity, and mast cell numbers. Colonic NGF and NGF receptor expression were determined at 14 days and 12 weeks of age. To determine the involvement of colonic NGF overexpression and mast cell hyperplasia in visceral hyperalgesia induced by MD, neonatally deprived adult rats received anti-NGF antibodies or doxantrazole. RESULTS MD increased visceral sensitivity to rectal distention, gut permeability, colonic myeloperoxidase activity, and mast cell density, and anti-NGF antibodies abolished these effects. Neonatal daily treatment with NGF mimicked the alterations induced by MD on both rectal sensitivity and mucosal barrier. In deprived compared with nondeprived rats, colonic NGF immunostaining and NGF messenger RNA were increased at 14 days and 12 weeks. Overexpression of NGF receptor messenger RNA, present at 14 days, was not observed later. Moreover, adult deprived rats treated with doxantrazole or anti-NGF antibodies exhibited normal gut permeability and visceral sensitivity to rectal distention. CONCLUSIONS These data indicate that NGF triggers and maintains long-term alterations of visceral sensitivity and gut mucosal integrity induced by MD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frederick Barreau
- Nuro-Gastroenterology and Nutrition Unit, Institut National de la Recherche Agronimique, Toulouse, France
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Bian LJ, Wu P, Yang XY. Two-step chromatographic method for separation and purification of nerve growth factor from venom of Chinese cobra. J Chromatogr B Analyt Technol Biomed Life Sci 2004; 805:119-25. [PMID: 15113547 DOI: 10.1016/j.jchromb.2004.02.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2003] [Revised: 02/11/2004] [Accepted: 02/20/2004] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
By selecting the different combination schemes, a simple, fast and highly efficient method for separation and purification of nerve growth factor (NGF) from venom of Chinese cobra is reported in this paper. This purification process consists of a two-step chromatographic separation on DEAE-Sepharose F.F. anion-exchange medium followed by a Sephadex G-50 gel filtration. On reducing and non-reducing sodium dodecyl sulphate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE), the nerve growth factor obtained with this process proved to be homogeneous and its molecular weight was separately estimated to be approximately 14.5 and 29.0kD, which was consistent with that reported in literature; and on high performance size-exclusion chromatography and reversed-phase chromatography, its purity was about 99%. The yield of this purification method was 0.51% and the nerve growth factor obtained had the activity of eliciting neurite outgrowth from chick embryonic dorsal root ganglia. The optimum concentration of nerve growth factor was 5-100ng/ml and the minimal concentration eliciting neurite outgrowth from chick embryonic dorsal root ganglia was 5.0 ng/ml.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liu-jiao Bian
- Center of Gene-engineering, College of Life Sciences, Northwest University, Xi'an 710069, PR China.
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Tanaka A, Wakita U, Kambe N, Iwasaki T, Matsuda H. An autocrine function of nerve growth factor for cell cycle regulation of vascular endothelial cells. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2004; 313:1009-14. [PMID: 14706643 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2003.12.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Nerve growth factor (NGF) regulates maintenance, survival, and function of not only neuronal cells but also various kinds of non-neuronal cells. Here we clearly demonstrated that mouse aortic endothelial cells (AEC) produced bioactive NGF, and the production was enhanced by a proinflammatory cytokine, interleukin (IL)-1beta. AEC expressed both high affinity (TrkA) and low affinity (p75(NGFR)) receptors for NGF. Exogenously added NGF induced rapid phosphorylation of TrkA tyrosine kinase. Addition of anti-NGF neutralizing antibody resulted in an increase in the proportion of AEC in S and G(2)/M phases and in a hypodiploid range. Since the vascular endothelium plays a pivotal role in inflammatory conditions, these results strongly suggest that NGF, whose production is enhanced at the affected site, may contribute to maintenance, survival, and function of vascular endothelial cells by autocrine and/or paracrine mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akane Tanaka
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunology, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Agriculture, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, 3-5-8 Saiwai-cho, Fuchu, Tokyo 183-8509, Japan
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Alberch J, Pérez-Navarro E, Canals JM. Neurotrophic factors in Huntington's disease. PROGRESS IN BRAIN RESEARCH 2004; 146:195-229. [PMID: 14699966 DOI: 10.1016/s0079-6123(03)46014-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Huntington's disease is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the selective loss of striatal neurons and, to a lesser extent, cortical neurons. The neurodegenerative process is caused by the mutation of huntingtin gene. Recent studies have established a link between mutant huntingtin, excitotoxicity and neurotrophic factors. Neurotrophic factors prevent cell death in degenerative processes but they can also enhance growth and function of neurons that are affected in Huntington's disease. The endogenous regulation of the expression of neurotrophic factors and their receptors in the striatum and its connections can be important to protect striatal cells and maintains basal ganglia connectivity. The administration of exogenous neurotrophic factors, in animal models of Huntington's disease, has been used to characterize the trophic requirements of striatal and cortical neurons. Neurotrophins, glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor family members and ciliary neurotrophic factor have shown a potent neuroprotective effects on different neuronal populations of the striatum. Furthermore, they are also useful to maintain the integrity of the corticostriatal pathway. Thus, these neurotrophic factors may be suitable for the development of a neuroprotective therapy for neurodegenerative disorders of the basal ganglia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordi Alberch
- Department of Cell Biology and Pathology, Medical School, IDIBAPS, University of Barcelona, Casanova 143, E-08036 Barcelona, Spain.
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Richardson CA, Leitch B. Cerebellar Golgi, Purkinje, and basket cells have reduced gamma-aminobutyric acid immunoreactivity in stargazer mutant mice. J Comp Neurol 2002; 453:85-99. [PMID: 12357434 DOI: 10.1002/cne.10406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
The stargazer mutant mouse has characteristic ataxia and head-tossing traits coupled with a severe impairment in the acquisition of classical eye-blink conditioning (Qiao et al. [1996] J. Neurosci. 16:640-648; Qiao et al. [ 1998] J. Neurosci. 18:6990-6999). These phenotypes are thought to be cerebellar mediated and have been attributed to the specific reduction in brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). The granule cells in the cerebellum of the stargazer mouse exhibit a near-total and exclusive ablation of BDNF mRNA expression and a consequent defect in TrkB receptor signalling. To investigate whether the stargazer mutation and lack of availability of BDNF in the granule cells compromise the phenotype of the cerebellar inhibitory neurons, specifically their immunoreactivity for gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA); the levels of GABA neurotransmitter expressed in Golgi, Purkinje, and basket cells; and the density of their synaptic contacts were compared in stargazer and wild-type controls using electron microscopy and quantitative immunogold labelling. The data presented in this study clearly show that, in the spontaneous ataxic mutant mouse stargazer, the cerebellar inhibitory neurons have significantly reduced levels of GABA immunoreactivity indicative of a significant decrease in their GABA content compared with wild-type controls. Furthermore, the density of inhibitory synapses between Golgi interneurons and granule cells and also between basket and Purkinje cells in stargazer mutants is reduced to approximately half that in wild-type controls. Whether this reduction in GABA content and inhibitory synapse density is directly attributable to the lack of BDNF in the cerebellum of the stargazer mutant is yet to be proved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine A Richardson
- Department of Biological and Biomedical Sciences, University of Durham, Durham DH1 3LE, United Kingdom
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Abstract
Ramon y Cajal proclaimed in 1928 that "once development was ended, the founts of growth and regeneration of the axons and dendrites dried up irrevocably. In the adult centers the nerve paths are something fixed, ended and immutable. Everything must die, nothing may be regenerated. It is for the science of the future to change, if possible, this harsh decree." (Ramon y Cajal, 1928). In large part, despite the extensive knowledge gained since then, the latter directive has not yet been achieved by 'modern' science. Although we know now that Ramon y Cajal's observation on CNS plasticity is largely true (for lower brain and primary cortical structures), there are mechanisms for recovery from CNS injury. These mechanisms, however, may contribute to the vulnerability to neurodegenerative disease. They may also be exploited therapeutically to help alleviate the suffering from neurodegenerative conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruce Teter
- Department of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, California and Veteran's Affairs-Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Sepulveda, California 91343, USA
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Calamandrei G, Valanzano A, Ricceri L. NGF induces appearance of adult-like response to spatial novelty in 18-day male mice. Behav Brain Res 2002; 136:289-98. [PMID: 12385815 DOI: 10.1016/s0166-4328(02)00140-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
We investigated the effects of Nerve Growth Factor (NGF) administration on the maturation of reactivity to spatial and non-spatial novelty in developing mice. CD-1 mice of both sexes received intracerebral administration of NGF on postnatal day (pnd) 15, and their response to object displacement (spatial novelty) and object substitution (object novelty) were assessed in a spatial open-field with four objects on pnd 18 or 28. On pnd 18, NGF induced only in males precocious appearance of spatial novelty discrimination, while increasing choline acetyltransferase activity in neocortex and hippocampus of both sexes. The behavioral and neurochemical effects disappeared by pnd 28. NGF triggers adult-like responding to spatial novelty in developing mice and such effect is gender-specific.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gemma Calamandrei
- Section of Comparative Psychology, Laboratorio di Fisiopatologia di Organo e Sistema, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy.
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Weber W, Fussenegger M. Artificial mammalian gene regulation networks-novel approaches for gene therapy and bioengineering. J Biotechnol 2002; 98:161-87. [PMID: 12141985 DOI: 10.1016/s0168-1656(02)00130-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Recently developed strategies for targeted molecular interventions in mammalian cells have created novel opportunities in biotechnological and biomedical research with huge economic and therapeutic impact: the design of mammalian cells with desired phenotypes for biopharmaceutical manufacturing, tissue engineering and gene therapy. These advances have been enabled by constructing artificial gene regulation systems with control modalities similar to those evolved in key regulatory networks of mammalian cells. This review highlights recurring cellular regulation strategies and artificial gene regulation technology currently in use for rational reprogramming of cellular key events including metabolism, growth, differentiation and cell death to achieve sophisticated bioprocess and therapeutic goals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wilfried Weber
- Institute of Biotechnology, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology, ETH Zurich ETH Hoenggerberg, HPT, Switzerland
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Abstract
Environmental factors can have profound influences on the brain. Enriching environments with physical, social and sensory stimuli are now established to be beneficial to brain development and ageing. A multitude of responses from cellular and molecular mechanisms to macroscopic changes in neural morphology and neurogenesis have been considered in the context for evidences that environmental inputs can regulate brain plasticity in the rat at all stages of life. Data from our laboratory have revealed that enriched environment increased nerve growth factor (NGF) gene expression and protein levels in the hippocampus, and this may contribute to events underlying environmentally induced neural plasticity. Because neurotrophic factors are essential for neural development and survival, they are likely to be involved in the cerebral consequences modified by enriched experiences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Therese M Pham
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Occupational Therapy, Elderly Care Research, Division of Geriatric Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Huddinge University Hospital, S-141 86 Huddinge, Sweden.
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Fusco M, Bentivoglio M, Vantini G, Guidolin D, Polato P, Leon A. Nerve Growth Factor Receptor-immunoreactive Fibres Innervate the Reticular Thalamic Nucleus: Modulation by Nerve Growth Factor Treatment in Neonate, Adult and Aged Rats. Eur J Neurosci 2002; 3:1008-1015. [PMID: 12106259 DOI: 10.1111/j.1460-9568.1991.tb00037.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Terminal arborizations expressing nerve growth factor receptor (NGF-R) have been detected with immunohistochemistry in the reticular thalamic nucleus of neonate, adult and aged rats. Intracerebroventricular administration of nerve growth factor (NGF) resulted in a dramatic increase in NGF-R immunoreactivity throughout the lifespan. This effect was paralleled by a concomitant increase in NGF-R immunopositivity in the neurons of the basal forebrain, which was here demonstrated also in aged animals, thus indicating that the NGF-R immunoreactivity within the reticular thalamic nucleus derives in all likelihood from cholinergic neuronal cell bodies of the basal forebrain. Our results demonstrate a prominent ability of NGF to up-regulate its receptors within fibres innervating the reticular thalamic nucleus, and show that this up-regulation of NGF-R is maintained throughout the lifetime. Altogether this indicates that the reticular thalamic nucleus may represent a new, important site of action of endogenous NGF or NGF-like molecules within the brain. In view of the crucial role played by the reticular thalamic nucleus in gating thalamocortical information, the autoregulation of NGF-R in this structure may have important concomitants in both physiological and pathological conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- M. Fusco
- Fidia Research Laboratories, Via Ponte della Fabbrica 3/A, 35031 Abano Terme, Padova, Italy
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Niewiadomska G, Komorowski S, Baksalerska-Pazera M. Amelioration of cholinergic neurons dysfunction in aged rats depends on the continuous supply of NGF. Neurobiol Aging 2002; 23:601-13. [PMID: 12009509 DOI: 10.1016/s0197-4580(01)00345-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
The present study was designed to examine whether NGF-induced improvement in morphology of senile basal forebrain cholinergic neurons persist after discontinuation of NGF treatment. Trophic effect of continuous intraventricular infusion of NGF was tested in the 4- and 28 months old male Wistar rats immediately after cessation of NGF and 3 or 6 weeks after termination of treatment. Immunohistochemical procedure for ChAT, TrkA, and p75(NTR) receptor has been applied to identify cholinergic cells in the basal forebrain structures. Using the quantitative image analyzer, morphometric and densitometric parameters of cholinergic cells were measured. In untreated 28-month-old rats a reduction in the number, size and intensity of staining of cholinergic neurons was observed in all basal forebrain structures. NGF significantly improved morphological parameters of ChAT- and TrkA-positive cells in aged rats. In 28-month-old rats tested within 3 and 6 weeks after discontinuation of infusion a renewed progressive deterioration of cholinergic phenotype of basal forebrain neurons was observed when compared with the NGF-treated immediately tested group. The parallel staining for p75(NTR) revealed normal morphology of the basal forebrain neurons, despite of the age of rats or the NGF treatment. Analysis of Nissl stained sections also showed that 28-month-old rats did not display significant losses of neurons in the basal forebrain when compared with the young animals. These findings demonstrate that senile impairment of cholinergic neurons is induced by a loss of cholinergic phenotype rather than an acute degeneration of cell bodies. NGF may be beneficial in enhancing cholinergic neurochemical parameters, but the protective effects seem to be dependent on the continuous supply of NGF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grazyna Niewiadomska
- Department of Neurophysiology, Nencki Institute, 3 Pasteur St., 02-093 Warsaw, Poland.
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40
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Alberch J, Pérez-Navarro E, Canals JM. Neuroprotection by neurotrophins and GDNF family members in the excitotoxic model of Huntington's disease. Brain Res Bull 2002; 57:817-22. [PMID: 12031278 DOI: 10.1016/s0361-9230(01)00775-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Huntington's disease is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by a selective degeneration of striatal projection neurons, which deal with choreic movements. Neuroprotective therapy could be achieved with the knowledge of the specific trophic requirements of these neuronal populations. Thus, the induction of endogenous trophic response or the exogenous administration of neurotrophic factors may help to prevent or stop the progression of the illness. Excitotoxicity has been implicated in the etiology of Huntington's disease, because intrastriatal injection of glutamate receptor agonists reproduces some of the neuropathological features of this disorder. Activation of glutamate receptors in the striatum differentially regulates the expression of neurotrophins, glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF), neurturin, and their receptors in the striatum and in its connections, cortex, and substantia nigra, showing a selective trophic response against excitotoxic insults. Transplantation of cells genetically engineered to release neurotrophic factors in the striatum has been used to study the neuroprotective effects of neurotrophin and GDNF family members in the excitotoxic model of Huntington's disease. Neurotrophins (brain-derived neurotrophic factor [BDNF], neurotrophin-3, and neurotrophin-4) protected striatal projection neurons against quinolinic or kainic acid treatment. However, GDNF family members showed a more specific action. Neurturin only protected gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)/enkephalinergic neurons that project to the external segment of the globus pallidus, whereas GDNF exerts its effects on GABA/substance P positive neurons, which project to the substantia nigra pars compacta and the internal segment of the globus pallidus. In conclusion, the trophic requirements of each population of striatal projection neurons are due to a complex interaction between several neurotrophic factors, such as neurotrophins and GDNF family members, which can be modified, in different pathological conditions. Moreover, these neurotrophic factors may be able to provide selective protection for basal ganglia circuits, which are affected in striatonigral degenerative disorders, such as Huntington's disease or multisystem atrophy.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Alberch
- Departament de Biologia Cel.lular i Anatomia Patològica, Facultat de Medicina, IDIBAPS, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.
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Howe CL, Valletta JS, Rusnak AS, Mobley WC. NGF signaling from clathrin-coated vesicles: evidence that signaling endosomes serve as a platform for the Ras-MAPK pathway. Neuron 2001; 32:801-14. [PMID: 11738027 DOI: 10.1016/s0896-6273(01)00526-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 280] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The target-derived neurotrophic factor "nerve growth factor" (NGF) signals through TrkA to promote the survival, differentiation, and maintenance of neurons. How the NGF signal in axon terminals is conveyed to the cell body is unknown. The "signaling endosome hypothesis" envisions that NGF-TrkA complexes are internalized at the axon terminal and retrogradely transported to the cell body. Following NGF treatment, we found that clathrin-coated vesicles contained NGF bound to TrkA together with activated signaling proteins of the Ras-MAP kinase pathway. Evidence that these vesicles could signal was their ability in vitro to activate Elk, a downstream target of Erk1/2. Our results point to the existence of a population of signaling endosomes derived from clathrin-coated membranes in NGF-treated cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- C L Howe
- Department of Neurology, Stanford University Medical Center, 1201 Welch Road, MSLS P211, Stanford, CA 94305, USA.
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42
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Abstract
Nerve growth factor (NGF) was discovered 50 years ago as a molecule that promoted the survival and differentiation of sensory and sympathetic neurons. Its roles in neural development have been characterized extensively, but recent findings point to an unexpected diversity of NGF actions and indicate that developmental effects are only one aspect of the biology of NGF. This article considers expanded roles for NGF that are associated with the dynamically regulated production of NGF and its receptors that begins in development, extends throughout adult life and aging, and involves a surprising variety of neurons, glia, and nonneural cells. Particular attention is given to a growing body of evidence that suggests that among other roles, endogenous NGF signaling subserves neuroprotective and repair functions. The analysis points to many interesting unanswered questions and to the potential for continuing research on NGF to substantially enhance our understanding of the mechanisms and treatment of neurological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- M V Sofroniew
- Department of Neurobiology and Brain Research Institute, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90095-1763, USA.
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43
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Ciccolini F, Svendsen CN. Neurotrophin responsiveness is differentially regulated in neurons and precursors isolated from the developing striatum. J Mol Neurosci 2001; 17:25-33. [PMID: 11665860 DOI: 10.1385/jmn:17:1:25] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2000] [Accepted: 01/08/2001] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Sequential exposure to members of the neurotrophin family, nerve growth factor (NGF), neurotrophin-type 3 (NT3), brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), and neurotrophin-type 4 (NT4), determines the generation, survival, and maturation of developing neurons. The effects of neurotrophins depend on the stage of development and the target cell population. However, the nature of the responding cells is often unclear. In this study neurotrophin responsiveness was analyzed in murine embryonic striatal precursors and neurons. Individual neurotrophin-responsive cells were identified based on activation of intracellular signaling pathways to the transcription factor CREB and were further characterized using differentiation-stage specific markers. A dramatic developmentally regulated decrease in BDNF responsiveness was observed: BDNF targeted more than 40% of striatal neurons at E14 but only 12% at E18. The percentage of NT3-responsive neurons also moderately decreased during development while no change was observed in the fraction of neuronal cells targeted by NT4 and NGF. A different type of developmental change was found in striatal precursors. BDNF, NT3, and NT4 each targeted about 15% of striatal precursors at E14 but no NGF responsive-precursors were detected at this age. In contrast, only NT3 and NGF could induce a response in precursor cells at E18. NGF-responsive precursors shared a distinct morphology with a large cell body and high levels of nestin expression. These results indicate that during striatal development, the regulation of neurotrophin responsiveness is different in neurons and precursor cells.
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Wang HF, Liu FC. Developmental restriction of the LIM homeodomain transcription factor Islet-1 expression to cholinergic neurons in the rat striatum. Neuroscience 2001; 103:999-1016. [PMID: 11301207 DOI: 10.1016/s0306-4522(00)00590-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
LIM homeodomain transcription factors play crucial roles in determining diverse aspects of neuronal development both in vertebrates and invertebrates. In the present study, we studied the expression pattern of Islet-1 (Isl-1), a member of the LIM homeodomain protein family, in the rat striatum during development. The developmental expression of Isl-1 in the striatum is highly dynamic and complex in terms of spatial and temporal regulation. The reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and ribonuclease protection assays demonstrated that Isl-1 messenger RNA was expressed in the developing striatum. The immunocytochemical study of Isl-1 protein expression showed that there were prominent mediolateral and caudorostral Isl-1 gradients in the developing striatum. Numerous Isl-1-positive cells appeared in the medial mantle zone of the developing striatal proper, and they co-expressed the postmitotic neuronal marker, microtubule-associated protein 2. The numbers of Isl-1-positive cells were decreased from the medial to the lateral regions, so that there were only a few Isl-1-positive cells scattered in the lateral striatum. These scattered Isl-1-positive cells were doubly labeled with tyrosine kinase receptor A and choline acetyltransferase, which indicated that they were cholinergic neurons. The Isl-1 gradients were most prominent in the embryonic day 18 and 20 striatum. With increases of time, the Isl-1 gradients were gradually reduced, and the gradients disappeared by postnatal day 7. Despite the general down-regulation of striatal Isl-1, a few Isl-1-positive cells were sustained into the adult striatum in which Isl-1 was nearly exclusively expressed by all cholinergic neurons and vice versa. Our study suggests that Isl-1 is likely to be initially expressed by postmitotic cholinergic precursors and some, if not all, non-cholinergic precursors in the developing striatum. During the progression of striatal differentiation, Isl-1 is down-regulated in non-cholinergic cells, but is sustained in cholinergic cells. The developmental restriction of Isl-1 to cholinergic neurons in the striatum may represent a novel mechanism by which LIM homeodomain proteins specify specific cell types in the striatum during development.
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Affiliation(s)
- H F Wang
- Institute of Neuroscience, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, 112, Republic of, Taiwan, China
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45
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Alleva E, Santucci D. Psychosocial vs. "physical" stress situations in rodents and humans: role of neurotrophins. Physiol Behav 2001; 73:313-20. [PMID: 11438356 DOI: 10.1016/s0031-9384(01)00498-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Nerve growth factor (NGF) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) are well-studied polypeptide growth factors involved in the development and maintenance of specific peripheral and central populations of neuronal cells. In addition to its role as a neurotrophic agent, NGF controls very complex functions in vertebrate physiology. A variety of cells outside the nervous system are in fact able to synthesize NGF including epithelial cells, fibroblasts, lymphocytes, and macrophages. NGF target cells have been identified in the nervous, immune, and endocrine systems, suggesting that NGF may operate through multiple paths to ultimately regulate physiological homeostasis and behavioral coping. We used a mouse model of social stress to demonstrate that NGF levels increase both in plasma and in the hypothalamus following intermale aggressive interactions. The investigation has been extended to other species, including humans, to show that labour, lactation, and the anticipation of the first jump with a parachute also result in increased NGF plasma levels and in changes in the distribution of NGF receptors on lymphocytes. BDNF activation is caused by both physical and social stress events. The aim of this review is to (1) outline the current understanding of the roles of NGF and BDNF in stress-related physiological changes in vertebrates, in particular for physical vs. psychological stressors, which may activate both similar and different neurobiological pathways, and (2) summarize recent efforts to derive pharmacological strategies from the increasing body of BDNF and NGF neurobehavioral data.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Alleva
- Section of Behavioural Pathophysiology, Laboratorio di Fisiopatologia di Organo e di Sistema, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena, 299 I-00161, Rome, Italy.
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Wu VW, Mo Q, Yabe T, Schwartz JP, Robinson SE. Perinatal opioids reduce striatal nerve growth factor content in rat striatum. Eur J Pharmacol 2001; 414:211-4. [PMID: 11239921 DOI: 10.1016/s0014-2999(01)00807-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Both human and animal models indicate that perinatal methadone exposure produces a variety of short- and long-term neurobehavioral consequences, including disruption of normal development of striatal cholinergic neurons. Despite this, methadone maintenance is a standard method of managing pregnant heroin addicts, and the opioid receptor partial agonist buprenorphine is under evaluation for the same use. We now report that perinatal administration of either methadone or buprenorphine reduces the content of the neurotrophic factor nerve growth factor (NGF) in rat striatum, which may explain the behavioral deficits observed. Furthermore, although NGF content is reduced, there are no corresponding reductions in striatal NGF mRNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- V W Wu
- Neurotrophic Factors Section, NINDS, NIH, Bethesda, MD 20892-4126, USA
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47
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Rattray M. Is there nicotinic modulation of nerve growth factor? Implications for cholinergic therapies in Alzheimer's disease. Biol Psychiatry 2001; 49:185-93. [PMID: 11230869 DOI: 10.1016/s0006-3223(00)01047-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Studies on the neurobiology of nerve growth factor (NGF) reveal a diverse range of actions. Through alterations in gene expression, NGF is important in maintaining and regulating the phenotype of neurons that express the high-affinity receptor, trkA. Nerve growth factor also has a rapid action, revealed by its role in pain signaling in bladder and in skin. In the central nervous system (CNS), NGF has an intimate relationship with the cholinergic system. It promotes cholinergic neuron survival after experimental injury but also maintains and regulates the phenotype of uninjured cholinergic neurons. In addition to these effects mediated by gene expression, NGF has a rapid neurotransmitter-like action to regulate cholinergic neurotransmission and neuronal excitability. Consistent with its actions on the cholinergic system, NGF can enhance function in animals with cholinergic lesions and has been proposed to be useful in humans with Alzheimer's disease (AD); however, the problems of CNS delivery and of side effects (particularly pain) limit the clinical efficacy of NGF. Drug treatment strategies to enhance production of NGF in the CNS may be useful in the treatment of AD. Nicotine is one such agent, which, when administered directly to the hippocampus in rats, produces long-lasting elevation of NGF production.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Rattray
- Biochemical Neuropharmacology Group, Centre for Neuroscience Research, GKT School of Biomedical Sciences, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
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48
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Fukuta T, Nitta A, Itoh A, Furukawa S, Nabeshima T. Difference in toxicity of beta-amyloid peptide with aging in relation to nerve growth factor content in rat brain. J Neural Transm (Vienna) 2001; 108:221-30. [PMID: 11314775 DOI: 10.1007/s007020170090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Amyloid beta-peptide (Abeta) is the major constituent of the senile plaques in the brains of patients with Alzheimer's disease. We have demonstrated previously that memory impairment, dysfunction of the cholinergic and dopaminergic neuronal system and morphological degeneration are produced after the continuous infusion of Abeta into the cerebral ventricle in 8-week-old rat. In the present study, we investigated the toxicity of Abeta in infant (10 days old), adult (8 weeks old) and aged (20 months old) rats in relation to nerve growth factor (NGF) content in various regions of the brain. After a 2-week-infusion, choline acetyltransferase (ChAT) activity was significantly decreased in the hippocampus of adult, but not infant or aged rats. NGF levels in the hippocampus were increased only in adult rats. These results suggest that Abeta is toxic only in the matured adult brain, and that the mechanism of toxicity is related to NGF synthesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Fukuta
- Department of Neuropsychopharmacology and Hospital Pharmacy, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Japan
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49
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Cirulli F, Alleva E, Antonelli A, Aloe L. NGF expression in the developing rat brain: effects of maternal separation. BRAIN RESEARCH. DEVELOPMENTAL BRAIN RESEARCH 2000; 123:129-34. [PMID: 11042341 DOI: 10.1016/s0006-8993(00)02844-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
A number of studies have shown that mothering style in rodents can produce neuroendocrine, neurochemical and behavioural changes in the adult, although the basic mechanisms initiating this cascade of events still need to be investigated. Long term changes in neuronal function might be due to alterations in the expression of neurotrophins which have been shown to promote neuronal survival, differentiation and function during development, such as Nerve Growth Factor (NGF). NGF is essential for proper development of sympathetic and neural crest-derived sensory neurons of the peripheral nervous system as well as of central cholinergic neurons. In previous studies, using a maternal separation paradigm, we have shown that NGF expression is increased in the dentate gyrus and the hilus of the hippocampus as a result of brief (45 min) maternal separations. In the present study neonatal rats were separated for longer periods of time (up to 3 h) and at different ages during development (9 and 16 days postnatally). Results indicate that the effects of maternal separation on NGF expression are stronger with longer separations and are not restricted to the hippocampal region but can be seen also in other brain areas. Overall these results indicate that external factors, such as the presence/absence of the mother, can modify neurotrophic factor's availability in the brain, thus indicating NGF as a potential player in environmentally-mediated brain plasticity during development.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Cirulli
- Section of Behavioural Pathophysiology, Laboratorio di Fisiopatologia di Organo e di Sistema, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, I-00161 Rome, Italy.
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50
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Klein RL, Hirko AC, Meyers CA, Grimes JR, Muzyczka N, Meyer EM. NGF gene transfer to intrinsic basal forebrain neurons increases cholinergic cell size and protects from age-related, spatial memory deficits in middle-aged rats. Brain Res 2000; 875:144-51. [PMID: 10967308 DOI: 10.1016/s0006-8993(00)02634-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Administration of nerve growth factor (NGF) by intracerebroventricular infusion or transplantation of NGF-secreting cells to the basal forebrain improves spatial memory in aged animals. Using the adeno-associated virus (AAV) vector system, basal forebrain neurons were transduced to produce NGF ectopically for long intervals (at least 9 months). Rats received intraseptal injections of either the control vector, pTR-UF4, or the pTR-NGFmyc at 3 months of age, prior to testing their performance in the Morris water task. An age-related decrease in the acquisition of the hidden platform location was found at 12 months of age in the pTR-UF4 control group, but not in the pTR-NGFmyc group. Further, when compared to 3 month old untreated animals, the control group, but not the pTR-NGFmyc group, was impaired at 12 months of age. Concomitant to preventing age-related memory deficits, the NGF gene transfer increased cholinergic neuron size by 34% in the medial septum. This approach may therefore represent a viable therapy for age-related dementia involving dysfunction in cholinergic activity and memory, such as Alzheimer's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- R L Klein
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Campus Box 100267, JHMHC, Gainesville, FL 32610-0267, USA
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