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Carrero L, Antequera D, Municio C, Carro E. Circadian rhythm disruption and retinal dysfunction: a bidirectional link in Alzheimer's disease? Neural Regen Res 2024; 19:1967-1972. [PMID: 38227523 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.390962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 01/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Dysfunction in circadian rhythms is a common occurrence in patients with Alzheimer's disease. A predominant function of the retina is circadian synchronization, carrying information to the brain through the retinohypothalamic tract, which projects to the suprachiasmatic nucleus. Notably, Alzheimer's disease hallmarks, including amyloid-β, are present in the retinas of Alzheimer's disease patients, followed/associated by structural and functional disturbances. However, the mechanistic link between circadian dysfunction and the pathological changes affecting the retina in Alzheimer's disease is not fully understood, although some studies point to the possibility that retinal dysfunction could be considered an early pathological process that directly modulates the circadian rhythm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Carrero
- Group of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre Research Institute (imas12), Madrid, Spain; Network Center for Biomedical Research in Neurodegenerative Diseases (CIBERNED), ISCIII, Madrid, Spain
- PhD Program in Neuroscience, Autonoma de Madrid University, Madrid, Spain
| | - Desireé Antequera
- Neurobiology of Alzheimer's Disease Unit, Functional Unit for Research into Chronic Diseases, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain; Network Centre for Biomedical Research in Neurodegenerative Diseases (CIBERNED), ISCIII, Madrid, Spain
| | - Cristina Municio
- Group of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre Research Institute (imas12), Madrid, Spain; Network Center for Biomedical Research in Neurodegenerative Diseases (CIBERNED), ISCIII, Madrid, Spain
| | - Eva Carro
- Neurobiology of Alzheimer's Disease Unit, Functional Unit for Research into Chronic Diseases, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain; Network Centre for Biomedical Research in Neurodegenerative Diseases (CIBERNED), ISCIII, Madrid, Spain
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2
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Dyer B, Yu SO, Brown RL, Lang RA, D'Souza SP. Defining spatial nonuniformities of all ipRGC types using an improved Opn4 cre recombinase mouse line. CELL REPORTS METHODS 2024:100837. [PMID: 39127043 DOI: 10.1016/j.crmeth.2024.100837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2024] [Revised: 06/18/2024] [Accepted: 07/18/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024]
Abstract
Intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs) play a crucial role in several physiological light responses. In this study, we generate an improved Opn4cre knockin allele (Opn4cre(DSO)), which faithfully reproduces endogenous Opn4 expression and improves compatibility with widely used reporters. We evaluated the efficacy and sensitivity of Opn4cre(DSO) for labeling in retina and brain and provide an in-depth comparison with the extensively utilized Opn4cre(Saha) line. Through this characterization, Opn4cre(DSO) demonstrated higher specificity in labeling ipRGCs with minimal recombination escape. Leveraging a combination of electrophysiological, molecular, and morphological analyses, we confirmed its sensitivity in detecting all ipRGC types (M1-M6) and defined their unique topographical distribution across the retina. In the brain, the Opn4cre(DSO) line labels ipRGC projections with minimal labeling of cell bodies. Overall, the Opn4cre(DSO) mouse line represents an improved tool for studying ipRGC function and distribution, offering a means to selectively target these cells to study light-regulated behaviors and physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brannen Dyer
- Division of Pediatric Ophthalmology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA; Science of Light Center, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA; Abrahamson Pediatric Eye Institute, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Sue O Yu
- Department of Integrative Physiology & Neuroscience, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA
| | - R Lane Brown
- Department of Integrative Physiology & Neuroscience, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA
| | - Richard A Lang
- Division of Pediatric Ophthalmology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA; Science of Light Center, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA; Abrahamson Pediatric Eye Institute, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA; Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Shane P D'Souza
- Division of Pediatric Ophthalmology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA; Science of Light Center, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA; Abrahamson Pediatric Eye Institute, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA.
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3
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Müllner FE, Roska B. Individual thalamic inhibitory interneurons are functionally specialized toward distinct visual features. Neuron 2024:S0896-6273(24)00408-2. [PMID: 38917805 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2024.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2023] [Revised: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024]
Abstract
Inhibitory interneurons in the dorsolateral geniculate nucleus (dLGN) are situated at the first central synapse of the image-forming visual pathway, but little is known about their function. Given their anatomy, they are expected to be multiplexors, integrating many different retinal channels along their dendrites. Here, using targeted single-cell-initiated rabies tracing, we found that mouse dLGN interneurons exhibit a degree of retinal input specialization similar to thalamocortical neurons. Some are anatomically highly specialized, for example, toward motion-selective information. Two-photon calcium imaging performed in vivo revealed that interneurons are also functionally specialized. In mice lacking retinal horizontal direction selectivity, horizontal direction selectivity is reduced in interneurons, suggesting a causal link between input and functional specialization. Functional specialization is not only present at interneuron somata but also extends into their dendrites. Altogether, inhibitory interneurons globally display distinct visual features which reflect their retinal input specialization and are ideally suited to perform feature-selective inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fiona E Müllner
- Institute of Molecular and Clinical Ophthalmology Basel, 4031 Basel, Switzerland; Department of Ophthalmology, University of Basel, 4031 Basel, Switzerland; Friedrich Miescher Institute for Biomedical Research, 4056 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Botond Roska
- Institute of Molecular and Clinical Ophthalmology Basel, 4031 Basel, Switzerland; Department of Ophthalmology, University of Basel, 4031 Basel, Switzerland.
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4
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Contreras E, Liang C, Mahoney HL, Javier JL, Luce ML, Labastida Medina K, Bozza T, Schmidt TM. Flp-recombinase mouse line for genetic manipulation of ipRGCs. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.05.06.592761. [PMID: 38766000 PMCID: PMC11100754 DOI: 10.1101/2024.05.06.592761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
Light has myriad impacts on behavior, health, and physiology. These signals originate in the retina and are relayed to the brain by more than 40 types of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs). Despite a growing appreciation for the diversity of RGCs, how these diverse channels of light information are ultimately integrated by the ~50 retinorecipient brain targets to drive these light-evoked effects is a major open question. This gap in understanding primarily stems from a lack of genetic tools that specifically label, manipulate, or ablate specific RGC types. Here, we report the generation and characterization of a new mouse line (Opn4FlpO), in which FlpO is expressed from the Opn4 locus, to manipulate the melanopsin-expressing, intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells. We find that the Opn4FlpO line, when crossed to multiple reporters, drives expression that is confined to ipRGCs and primarily labels the M1-M3 subtypes. Labeled cells in this mouse line show the expected intrinsic, melanopsin-based light response and morphological features consistent with the M1-M3 subtypes. In alignment with the morphological and physiological findings, we see strong innervation of non-image forming brain targets by ipRGC axons, and weaker innervation of image forming targets in Opn4FlpO mice labeled using AAV-based and FlpO-reporter lines. Consistent with the FlpO insertion disrupting the endogenous Opn4 transcript, we find that Opn4FlpO/FlpO mice show deficits in the pupillary light reflex, demonstrating their utility for behavioral research in future experiments. Overall, the Opn4FlpO mouse line drives Flp-recombinase expression that is confined to ipRGCs and most effectively drives recombination in M1-M3 ipRGCs. This mouse line will be of broad use to those interested in manipulating ipRGCs through a Flp-based recombinase for intersectional studies or in combination with other, non-Opn4 Cre driver lines.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Contreras
- Department of Neurobiology, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL
- Northwestern University Interdisciplinary Biological Sciences Program, Northwestern University, Evanston, United States
| | - C Liang
- Department of Neurobiology, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL
| | - H L Mahoney
- Department of Neurobiology, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL
| | - J L Javier
- Department of Neurobiology, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL
| | - M L Luce
- Department of Neurobiology, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL
| | | | - T Bozza
- Department of Neurobiology, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL
| | - T M Schmidt
- Department of Neurobiology, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL
- Department of Ophthalmology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL
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5
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Shang W, Xie S, Feng W, Li Z, Jia J, Cao X, Shen Y, Li J, Shi H, Gu Y, Weng SJ, Lin L, Pan YH, Yuan XB. A non-image-forming visual circuit mediates the innate fear of heights in male mice. Nat Commun 2024; 15:3746. [PMID: 38702319 PMCID: PMC11068790 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-48147-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024] Open
Abstract
The neural basis of fear of heights remains largely unknown. In this study, we investigated the fear response to heights in male mice and observed characteristic aversive behaviors resembling human height vertigo. We identified visual input as a critical factor in mouse reactions to heights, while peripheral vestibular input was found to be nonessential for fear of heights. Unexpectedly, we found that fear of heights in naïve mice does not rely on image-forming visual processing by the primary visual cortex. Instead, a subset of neurons in the ventral lateral geniculate nucleus (vLGN), which connects to the lateral/ventrolateral periaqueductal gray (l/vlPAG), drives the expression of fear associated with heights. Additionally, we observed that a subcortical visual pathway linking the superior colliculus to the lateral posterior thalamic nucleus inhibits the defensive response to height threats. These findings highlight a rapid fear response to height threats through a subcortical visual and defensive pathway from the vLGN to the l/vlPAG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Shang
- Key Laboratory of Brain Functional Genomics of Shanghai and Ministry of Education, Institute of Brain Functional Genomics, School of Life Science and the Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200062, China
| | - Shuangyi Xie
- Key Laboratory of Brain Functional Genomics of Shanghai and Ministry of Education, Institute of Brain Functional Genomics, School of Life Science and the Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200062, China
| | - Wenbo Feng
- Key Laboratory of Brain Functional Genomics of Shanghai and Ministry of Education, Institute of Brain Functional Genomics, School of Life Science and the Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200062, China
| | - Zhuangzhuang Li
- Department of Otolaryngology Head & Neck Surgery, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Otolaryngology Institute of Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200233, China
| | - Jingyan Jia
- Key Laboratory of Brain Functional Genomics of Shanghai and Ministry of Education, Institute of Brain Functional Genomics, School of Life Science and the Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200062, China
| | - Xiaoxiao Cao
- Key Laboratory of Brain Functional Genomics of Shanghai and Ministry of Education, Institute of Brain Functional Genomics, School of Life Science and the Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200062, China
| | - Yanting Shen
- Key Laboratory of Brain Functional Genomics of Shanghai and Ministry of Education, Institute of Brain Functional Genomics, School of Life Science and the Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200062, China
| | - Jing Li
- Key Laboratory of Brain Functional Genomics of Shanghai and Ministry of Education, Institute of Brain Functional Genomics, School of Life Science and the Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200062, China
| | - Haibo Shi
- Department of Otolaryngology Head & Neck Surgery, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Otolaryngology Institute of Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200233, China
| | - Yiran Gu
- Key Laboratory of Brain Functional Genomics of Shanghai and Ministry of Education, Institute of Brain Functional Genomics, School of Life Science and the Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200062, China
| | - Shi-Jun Weng
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Longnian Lin
- Key Laboratory of Brain Functional Genomics of Shanghai and Ministry of Education, Institute of Brain Functional Genomics, School of Life Science and the Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200062, China
| | - Yi-Hsuan Pan
- Key Laboratory of Brain Functional Genomics of Shanghai and Ministry of Education, Institute of Brain Functional Genomics, School of Life Science and the Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200062, China.
| | - Xiao-Bing Yuan
- Key Laboratory of Brain Functional Genomics of Shanghai and Ministry of Education, Institute of Brain Functional Genomics, School of Life Science and the Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200062, China.
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6
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Aranda ML, Bhoi JD, Parra OAP, Lee SK, Yamada T, Yang Y, Schmidt TM. Genetic tuning of intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cell subtype identity to drive visual behavior. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.04.25.590656. [PMID: 38712084 PMCID: PMC11071530 DOI: 10.1101/2024.04.25.590656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/08/2024]
Abstract
The melanopsin-expressing, intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs) comprise a subset of the ∼40 retinal ganglion cell types in the mouse retina and drive a diverse array of light-evoked behaviors from circadian photoentrainment to pupil constriction to contrast sensitivity for visual perception. Central to the ability of ipRGCs to control this diverse array of behaviors is the distinct complement of morphophysiological features and gene expression patterns found in the M1-M6 ipRGC subtypes. However, the genetic regulatory programs that give rise to subtypes of ipRGCs are unknown. Here, we identify the transcription factor Brn3b (Pou4f2) as a key genetic regulator that shapes the unique functions of ipRGC subtypes and their diverse downstream visual behaviors.
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7
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Dyer B, Yu SO, Lane Brown R, Lang RA, D’Souza SP. A new Opn4cre recombinase mouse line to target intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs). BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.04.16.589750. [PMID: 38659888 PMCID: PMC11042346 DOI: 10.1101/2024.04.16.589750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
Intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs) play a crucial role in several physiological light responses. In this study we generate a new Opn4cre knock-in allele (Opn4cre(DSO)), in which cre is placed immediately downstream of the Opn4 start codon. This approach aims to faithfully reproduce endogenous Opn4 expression and improve compatibility with widely used reporters. We evaluated the efficacy and sensitivity of Opn4cre(DSO) for labeling in retina and brain, and provide an in-depth comparison with the extensively utilized Opn4cre(Saha) line. Through this characterization, Opn4cre(DSO) demonstrated higher specificity in labeling ipRGCs, with minimal recombination escape. Leveraging a combination of electrophysiological, molecular, and morphological analyses, we confirmed its sensitivity in detecting all ipRGC types (M1-M6). Using this new tool, we describe the topographical distributions of ipRGC types across the retinal landscape, uncovering distinct ventronasal biases for M5 and M6 types, setting them apart from their M1-M4 counterparts. In the brain, we find vastly different labeling patterns between lines, with Opn4cre(DSO) only labeling ipRGC axonal projections to their targets. The combination of off-target effects of Opn4cre(Saha) across the retina and brain, coupled with diminished efficiencies of both Cre lines when coupled to less sensitive reporters, underscores the need for careful consideration in experimental design and validation with any Opn4cre driver. Overall, the Opn4cre(DSO) mouse line represents an improved tool for studying ipRGC function and distribution, offering a means to selectively target these cells to study light-regulated behaviors and physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brannen Dyer
- Division of Pediatric Ophthalmology, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, OH
- Science of Light Center, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, OH
- Abrahamson Pediatric Eye Institute, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, OH
| | - Sue O. Yu
- Department of Integrative Physiology & Neuroscience, Washington State University, Pullman, WA
| | - R. Lane Brown
- Department of Integrative Physiology & Neuroscience, Washington State University, Pullman, WA
| | - Richard A. Lang
- Division of Pediatric Ophthalmology, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, OH
- Science of Light Center, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, OH
- Abrahamson Pediatric Eye Institute, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, OH
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cincinnati, OH
| | - Shane P. D’Souza
- Division of Pediatric Ophthalmology, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, OH
- Science of Light Center, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, OH
- Abrahamson Pediatric Eye Institute, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, OH
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8
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Yuan M, Jin S, Tan G, Song S, Liu Y, Wang H, Shen Y. A Non-canonical Excitatory PV RGC-PV SC Visual Pathway for Mediating the Looming-evoked Innate Defensive Response. Neurosci Bull 2024; 40:310-324. [PMID: 37302108 PMCID: PMC10912393 DOI: 10.1007/s12264-023-01076-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Parvalbumin-positive retinal ganglion cells (PV+ RGCs) are an essential subset of RGCs found in various species. However, their role in transmitting visual information remains unclear. Here, we characterized PV+ RGCs in the retina and explored the functions of the PV+ RGC-mediated visual pathway. By applying multiple viral tracing strategies, we investigated the downstream of PV+ RGCs across the whole brain. Interestingly, we found that the PV+ RGCs provided direct monosynaptic input to PV+ excitatory neurons in the superficial layers of the superior colliculus (SC). Ablation or suppression of SC-projecting PV+ RGCs abolished or severely impaired the flight response to looming visual stimuli in mice without affecting visual acuity. Furthermore, using transcriptome expression profiling of individual cells and immunofluorescence colocalization for RGCs, we found that PV+ RGCs are predominant glutamatergic neurons. Thus, our findings indicate the critical role of PV+ RGCs in an innate defensive response and suggest a non-canonical subcortical visual pathway from excitatory PV+ RGCs to PV+ SC neurons that regulates looming visual stimuli. These results provide a potential target for intervening and treating diseases related to this circuit, such as schizophrenia and autism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Man Yuan
- Eye Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, China
| | - Sen Jin
- The Brain Cognition and Brain Disease Institute, Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Viral Vectors for Biomedicine, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science-Shenzhen Fundamental Research Institutions, National Medical Products Administration Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Viral Vector Technology in Cell and Gene Therapy Medicinal Products, Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Quality Control Technology for Virus-Based Therapeutics, Guangdong Provincial Medical Products Administration, Shenzhen, 518055, China
- State Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance and Atomic and Molecular Physics, Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance in Biological Systems, Wuhan Center for Magnetic Resonance, Innovation Academy for Precision Measurement Science and Technology, CAS, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Gao Tan
- Eye Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, China
| | - Siyuan Song
- Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, 77030, USA
| | - Yizong Liu
- Eye Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, China
| | - Huadong Wang
- The Brain Cognition and Brain Disease Institute, Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Viral Vectors for Biomedicine, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science-Shenzhen Fundamental Research Institutions, National Medical Products Administration Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Viral Vector Technology in Cell and Gene Therapy Medicinal Products, Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Quality Control Technology for Virus-Based Therapeutics, Guangdong Provincial Medical Products Administration, Shenzhen, 518055, China
- State Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance and Atomic and Molecular Physics, Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance in Biological Systems, Wuhan Center for Magnetic Resonance, Innovation Academy for Precision Measurement Science and Technology, CAS, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Yin Shen
- Eye Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, China.
- Frontier Science Center of Immunology and Metabolism, Medical Research Institute, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, China.
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Pan D, Wang Z, Chen Y, Cao J. Melanopsin-mediated optical entrainment regulates circadian rhythms in vertebrates. Commun Biol 2023; 6:1054. [PMID: 37853054 PMCID: PMC10584931 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-023-05432-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Melanopsin (OPN4) is a light-sensitive protein that plays a vital role in the regulation of circadian rhythms and other nonvisual functions. Current research on OPN4 has focused on mammals; more evidence is needed from non-mammalian vertebrates to fully assess the significance of the non-visual photosensitization of OPN4 for circadian rhythm regulation. There are species differences in the regulatory mechanisms of OPN4 for vertebrate circadian rhythms, which may be due to the differences in the cutting variants, tissue localization, and photosensitive activation pathway of OPN4. We here summarize the distribution of OPN4 in mammals, birds, and teleost fish, and the classical excitation mode for the non-visual photosensitive function of OPN4 in mammals is discussed. In addition, the role of OPN4-expressing cells in regulating circadian rhythm in different vertebrates is highlighted, and the potential rhythmic regulatory effects of various neuropeptides or neurotransmitters expressed in mammalian OPN4-expressing ganglion cells are summarized among them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deng Pan
- Laboratory of Anatomy of Domestic Animals, National Key Laboratory of Veterinary Public Health and Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Haidian, 100193, Beijing, China
| | - Zixu Wang
- Laboratory of Anatomy of Domestic Animals, National Key Laboratory of Veterinary Public Health and Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Haidian, 100193, Beijing, China
| | - Yaoxing Chen
- Laboratory of Anatomy of Domestic Animals, National Key Laboratory of Veterinary Public Health and Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Haidian, 100193, Beijing, China
| | - Jing Cao
- Laboratory of Anatomy of Domestic Animals, National Key Laboratory of Veterinary Public Health and Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Haidian, 100193, Beijing, China.
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10
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Huang Y, Liao P, Yu J, Chen S. Light disrupts social memory via a retina-to-supraoptic nucleus circuit. EMBO Rep 2023; 24:e56839. [PMID: 37531065 PMCID: PMC10561173 DOI: 10.15252/embr.202356839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2023] [Revised: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The formation of social memory between individuals of the opposite sex is crucial for expanding mating options or establishing monogamous pair bonding. A specialized neuronal circuit that regulates social memory could enhance an individual's mating opportunities and provide a parallel pathway for computing social behaviors. While the influence of light exposure on various forms of memory, such as fear and object memory, has been studied, its modulation of social recognition memory remains unclear. Here, we demonstrate that acute exposure to light impairs social recognition memory (SRM) in mice. Unlike sound and touch stimuli, light inhibits oxytocin neurons in the supraoptic nucleus (SON) via M1 SON-projecting intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs) and GABAergic neurons in the perinuclear zone of the SON (pSON). We further show that optogenetic activation of SON oxytocin neurons using channelrhodopsin is sufficient to enhance SRM performance, even under light conditions. Our findings unveil a dedicated neuronal circuit through which luminance affects SRM, utilizing a non-image-forming visual pathway, distinct from the canonical modulatory role of the oxytocin system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu‐Fan Huang
- Department of Life ScienceNational Taiwan UniversityTaipeiTaiwan
| | - Po‐Yu Liao
- Department of Life ScienceNational Taiwan UniversityTaipeiTaiwan
| | - Jo‐Hsien Yu
- Department of Life ScienceNational Taiwan UniversityTaipeiTaiwan
| | - Shih‐Kuo Chen
- Department of Life ScienceNational Taiwan UniversityTaipeiTaiwan
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11
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Wang F, Zhong W, Yang Q, Zhao W, Liu X, Rao B, Lin X, Zhang J. Distribution and synaptic organization of substance P-like immunoreactive neurons in the mouse retina. Brain Struct Funct 2023; 228:1703-1724. [PMID: 37481742 DOI: 10.1007/s00429-023-02688-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023]
Abstract
Substance P (SP), a neuroprotective peptidergic neurotransmitter, is known to have immunoreactivity (IR) localized to amacrine and/or ganglion cells in a variety of species' retinas, but it has not yet been studied in the mouse retina. Thus, we investigated the distribution and synaptic organization of SP-IR by confocal and electron microscopy immunocytochemistry in the mouse retina. SP-IR was distributed in the inner nuclear layer (INL), inner plexiform layer (IPL), and ganglion cell layer (GCL). Most of the SP-IR somas belonged to amacrine cells (2.5% of all) in the INL and their processes stratified into the S1, S3, and S5 layers of the IPL, with the most intense band in the S5 layer. Some SP-IR somas can also be observed in the GCL, which were identified as displaced amacrine cells (82%, 1269/1550) and ganglion cells (18%, 281/1550) by antibodies against AP2α and RBPMS, respectively. Such SP-IR ganglion cells (1.2% of all RGCs) can be further divided into 3 subgroups expressing SP/α-Synuclein (α-Syn), SP/GAD67, and/or SP/GAD67/α-Syn. Possible physiological and pathological roles of these ganglion cells are discussed. Further, electron microscopy evidence demonstrates that SP-IR amacrine cells receive major inputs from other SP-IR amacrine cell processes (146/242 inputs) and output mostly to SP-negative amacrine cell processes (291/673 outputs), suggesting series inhibition among amacrine cells. These results reveal for the first time an explicit distribution, novel ganglion cell features, and synaptic organization of SP-IR in the mouse retina, which is important for the future use of mouse models to study the roles of SP in healthy and diseased (including Parkinson's disease) retinal states.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fenglan Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China
| | - Wenhui Zhong
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China
| | - Qingwen Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China
| | - Wenna Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China
| | - Xiaoqing Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China
| | - Bilin Rao
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China
- Laboratory of Retinal Physiology and Disease, School of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xin Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China
- Laboratory of Retinal Physiology and Disease, School of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jun Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Optometry and Visual Science, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China.
- Laboratory of Retinal Physiology and Disease, School of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, Zhejiang, China.
- National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China.
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12
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Berry MH, Leffler J, Allen CN, Sivyer B. Functional subtypes of rodent melanopsin ganglion cells switch roles between night and day illumination. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.08.26.554902. [PMID: 38168436 PMCID: PMC10760181 DOI: 10.1101/2023.08.26.554902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
Intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs), contain the photopigment melanopsin, and influence both image and non-image forming behaviors. Despite being categorized into multiple types (M1-M6), physiological variability within these types suggests our current understanding of ipRGCs is incomplete. We used multi-electrode array (MEA) recordings and unbiased cluster analysis under synaptic blockade to identify 8 functional clusters of ipRGCs, each with distinct photosensitivity and response timing. We used Cre mice to drive the expression of channelrhodopsin in SON-ipRGCs, enabling the localization of distinct ipRGCs in the dorsal retina. Additionally, we conducted a retrospective unbiased cluster analysis of ipRGC photoresponses to light stimuli across scotopic, mesopic, and photopic intensities, aimed at activating both rod and cone inputs to ipRGCs. Our results revealed shared and distinct synaptic inputs to the identified functional clusters, demonstrating that ipRGCs encode visual information with high fidelity at low light intensities, but poorly at photopic light intensities, when melanopsin activation is highest. Collectively, our findings support a framework with at least 8 functional subtypes of ipRGCs, each encoding luminance with distinct spike outputs, highlighting the inherent functional diversity and complexity of ipRGCs and suggesting a reevaluation of their contributions to retinal function and visual perception under varying light conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael H. Berry
- Department of Ophthalmology, Casey Eye Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, 97239
- Medical Scientist Training program, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, 97239
| | - Joseph Leffler
- Department of Ophthalmology, Casey Eye Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, 97239
| | - Charles N. Allen
- Oregon Institute of Occupational Health Sciences, Department of Behavioral Neuroscience, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, 97239
| | - Benjamin Sivyer
- Department of Ophthalmology, Casey Eye Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, 97239
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13
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D'Souza SP, Upton BA, Eldred KC, Glass I, Grover K, Ahmed A, Ngyuen MT, Gamlin P, Lang RA. Developmental adaptation of rod photoreceptor number via photoreception in melanopsin (OPN4) retinal ganglion cells. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.08.24.554675. [PMID: 37662196 PMCID: PMC10473760 DOI: 10.1101/2023.08.24.554675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/05/2023]
Abstract
Photoreception, a form of sensory experience, is essential for normal development of the mammalian visual system. Detecting photons during development is a prerequisite for visual system function - from vision's first synapse at the cone pedicle and maturation of retinal vascular networks, to transcriptional establishment and maturation of cell types within the visual cortex. Consistent with this theme, we find that the lighting environment regulates developmental rod photoreceptor apoptosis via OPN4-expressing intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs). Using a combination of genetics, sensory environment manipulations, and computational approaches, we establish a molecular pathway in which light-dependent glutamate release from ipRGCs is detected via a transiently expressed kainate receptor (GRIK3) in immature rods localized to the inner retina. Communication between ipRGCs and nascent inner retinal rods appears to be mediated by unusual hybrid neurites projecting from ipRGCs that sense light before eye-opening. These structures, previously referred to as outer retinal dendrites (ORDs), span the ipRGC-immature rod distance over the first postnatal week and contain the machinery for sensory detection (melanopsin, OPN4) and axonal/anterograde neurotransmitter release (Synaptophysin, and VGLUT2). Histological and computational assessment of human mid-gestation development reveal conservation of several hallmarks of an ipRGC-to-immature rod pathway, including displaced immature rods, transient GRIK3 expression in the rod lineage, and the presence of ipRGCs with putative neurites projecting deep into the developing retina. Thus, this analysis defines a retinal retrograde signaling pathway that links the sensory environment to immature rods via ipRGC photoreceptors, allowing the visual system to adapt to distinct lighting environments priory to eye-opening.
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14
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Calligaro H, Shoghi A, Chen X, Kim KY, Yu HL, Khov B, Finander B, Le H, Ellisman MH, Panda S. Ultrastructure of Synaptic Connectivity within Subregions of the Suprachiasmatic Nucleus Revealed by a Genetically Encoded Tag and Serial Blockface Electron Microscopy. eNeuro 2023; 10:ENEURO.0227-23.2023. [PMID: 37500494 PMCID: PMC10449486 DOI: 10.1523/eneuro.0227-23.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 07/01/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The hypothalamic suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) is the central circadian pacemaker in vertebrates. The SCN receives photic information exclusively through melanopsin-expressing retinal ganglion cells (mRGCs) to synchronize circadian rhythms with the environmental light cycles. The SCN is composed of two major peptidergic neuron types in the core and shell regions of the SCN. Determining how mRGCs interact with the network of synaptic connections onto and between SCN neurons is key to understand how light regulates the circadian clock and to elucidate the relevant local circuits within the SCN. To map these connections, we used a newly developed Cre-dependent electron microscopy (EM) reporter, APEX2, to label the mitochondria of mRGC axons. Serial blockface scanning electron microscopy was then used to resolve the fine 3D structure of mRGC axons and synaptic boutons in the SCN of a male mouse. The resulting maps reveal patterns of connectomic organization in the core and shell of the SCN. We show that these regions are composed of different neuronal subtypes and differ with regard to the pattern of mRGC input, as the shell receives denser mRGC synaptic input compared with the core. This finding challenges the present view that photic information coming directly from the retina is received primarily by the core region of the SCN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hugo Calligaro
- Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, CA 92037
| | - Azarin Shoghi
- Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, CA 92037
| | - Xinyue Chen
- Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, CA 92037
| | - Keun-Young Kim
- Department of Neurosciences, University of California at San Diego School of Medicine, La Jolla, CA 92161
- National Center for Microscopy and Imaging Research, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92161
| | - Hsin Liu Yu
- Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, CA 92037
| | - Brian Khov
- Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, CA 92037
| | | | - Hiep Le
- Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, CA 92037
| | - Mark H. Ellisman
- Department of Neurosciences, University of California at San Diego School of Medicine, La Jolla, CA 92161
- National Center for Microscopy and Imaging Research, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92161
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15
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Tu HQ, Li S, Xu YL, Zhang YC, Li PY, Liang LY, Song GP, Jian XX, Wu M, Song ZQ, Li TT, Hu HB, Yuan JF, Shen XL, Li JN, Han QY, Wang K, Zhang T, Zhou T, Li AL, Zhang XM, Li HY. Rhythmic cilia changes support SCN neuron coherence in circadian clock. Science 2023; 380:972-979. [PMID: 37262147 DOI: 10.1126/science.abm1962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
The suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) drives circadian clock coherence through intercellular coupling, which is resistant to environmental perturbations. We report that primary cilia are required for intercellular coupling among SCN neurons to maintain the robustness of the internal clock in mice. Cilia in neuromedin S-producing (NMS) neurons exhibit pronounced circadian rhythmicity in abundance and length. Genetic ablation of ciliogenesis in NMS neurons enabled a rapid phase shift of the internal clock under jet-lag conditions. The circadian rhythms of individual neurons in cilia-deficient SCN slices lost their coherence after external perturbations. Rhythmic cilia changes drive oscillations of Sonic Hedgehog (Shh) signaling and clock gene expression. Inactivation of Shh signaling in NMS neurons phenocopied the effects of cilia ablation. Thus, cilia-Shh signaling in the SCN aids intercellular coupling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hai-Qing Tu
- Nanhu Laboratory, National Center of Biomedical Analysis, Beijing, China
| | - Sen Li
- Nanhu Laboratory, National Center of Biomedical Analysis, Beijing, China
| | - Yu-Ling Xu
- Nanhu Laboratory, National Center of Biomedical Analysis, Beijing, China
| | - Yu-Cheng Zhang
- Nanhu Laboratory, National Center of Biomedical Analysis, Beijing, China
| | - Pei-Yao Li
- Nanhu Laboratory, National Center of Biomedical Analysis, Beijing, China
| | - Li-Yun Liang
- Nanhu Laboratory, National Center of Biomedical Analysis, Beijing, China
| | - Guang-Ping Song
- Nanhu Laboratory, National Center of Biomedical Analysis, Beijing, China
| | - Xiao-Xiao Jian
- Nanhu Laboratory, National Center of Biomedical Analysis, Beijing, China
| | - Min Wu
- Nanhu Laboratory, National Center of Biomedical Analysis, Beijing, China
| | - Zeng-Qing Song
- Nanhu Laboratory, National Center of Biomedical Analysis, Beijing, China
| | - Ting-Ting Li
- Nanhu Laboratory, National Center of Biomedical Analysis, Beijing, China
| | - Huai-Bin Hu
- Nanhu Laboratory, National Center of Biomedical Analysis, Beijing, China
| | - Jin-Feng Yuan
- Nanhu Laboratory, National Center of Biomedical Analysis, Beijing, China
| | - Xiao-Lin Shen
- Nanhu Laboratory, National Center of Biomedical Analysis, Beijing, China
| | - Jia-Ning Li
- Nanhu Laboratory, National Center of Biomedical Analysis, Beijing, China
| | - Qiu-Ying Han
- Nanhu Laboratory, National Center of Biomedical Analysis, Beijing, China
| | - Kai Wang
- Nanhu Laboratory, National Center of Biomedical Analysis, Beijing, China
| | - Tao Zhang
- Laboratory Animal Center, Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Tao Zhou
- Nanhu Laboratory, National Center of Biomedical Analysis, Beijing, China
| | - Ai-Ling Li
- Nanhu Laboratory, National Center of Biomedical Analysis, Beijing, China
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xue-Min Zhang
- Nanhu Laboratory, National Center of Biomedical Analysis, Beijing, China
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hui-Yan Li
- Nanhu Laboratory, National Center of Biomedical Analysis, Beijing, China
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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16
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Ahern J, Chrobok Ł, Champneys AR, Piggins HD. A new phase model of the spatiotemporal relationships between three circadian oscillators in the brainstem. Sci Rep 2023; 13:5480. [PMID: 37016055 PMCID: PMC10073201 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-32315-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 03/25/2023] [Indexed: 04/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Analysis of ex vivo Per2 bioluminescent rhythm previously recorded in the mouse dorsal vagal complex reveals a characteristic phase relationship between three distinct circadian oscillators. These signals represent core clock gene expression in the area postrema (AP), the nucleus of the solitary tract (NTS) and the ependymal cells surrounding the 4th ventricle (4Vep). Initially, the data suggests a consistent phasing in which the AP peaks first, followed shortly by the NTS, with the 4Vep peaking 8-9 h later. Wavelet analysis reveals that this pattern is not consistently maintained throughout a recording, however, the phase dynamics strongly imply that oscillator interactions are present. A simple phase model of the three oscillators is developed and it suggests that realistic phase dynamics occur between three model oscillators with coupling close to a synchronisation transition. The coupling topology suggests that the AP bidirectionally communicates phase information to the NTS and the 4Vep to synchronise the three structures. A comparison of the model with previous experimental manipulations demonstrates its feasibility to explain DVC circadian phasing. Finally, we show that simulating steadily decaying coupling improves the model's ability to capture experimental phase dynamics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jake Ahern
- School of Physiology, Pharmacology, and Neuroscience, University of Bristol, Bristol, BS8 1TD, UK
- Engineering Mathematics, University of Bristol, Bristol, BS8 1TW, UK
| | - Łukasz Chrobok
- School of Physiology, Pharmacology, and Neuroscience, University of Bristol, Bristol, BS8 1TD, UK
| | - Alan R Champneys
- Engineering Mathematics, University of Bristol, Bristol, BS8 1TW, UK
| | - Hugh D Piggins
- School of Physiology, Pharmacology, and Neuroscience, University of Bristol, Bristol, BS8 1TD, UK.
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17
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Carrero L, Antequera D, Alcalde I, Megías D, Figueiro-Silva J, Merayo-Lloves J, Municio C, Carro E. Disturbed circadian rhythm and retinal degeneration in a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease. Acta Neuropathol Commun 2023; 11:55. [PMID: 37004084 PMCID: PMC10067208 DOI: 10.1186/s40478-023-01529-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2023] [Accepted: 02/11/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The circadian clock is synchronized to the 24 h day by environmental light which is transmitted from the retina to the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) primarily via the retinohypothalamic tract (RHT). Circadian rhythm abnormalities have been reported in neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's disease (AD). Whether these AD-related changes are a result of the altered clock gene expression, retina degeneration, including the dysfunction in RHT transmission, loss of retinal ganglion cells and its electrophysiological capabilities, or a combination of all of these pathological mechanisms, is not known. Here, we evaluated transgenic APP/PS1 mouse model of AD and wild-type mice at 6- and 12-month-old, as early and late pathological stage, respectively. We noticed the alteration of circadian clock gene expression not only in the hypothalamus but also in two extra-hypothalamic brain regions, cerebral cortex and hippocampus, in APP/PS1 mice. These alterations were observed in 6-month-old transgenic mice and were exacerbated at 12 months of age. This could be explained by the reduced RHT projections in the SCN of APP/PS1 mice, correlating with downregulation of hypothalamic GABAergic response in APP/PS1 mice in advanced stage of pathology. Importantly, we also report retinal degeneration in APP/PS1 mice, including Aβ deposits and reduced choline acetyltransferase levels, loss of melanopsin retinal ganglion cells and functional integrity mainly of inner retina layers. Our findings support the theory that retinal degeneration constitutes an early pathological event that directly affects the control of circadian rhythm in AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Carrero
- Group of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre Research Institute (imas12), 28041, Madrid, Spain
- Network Center for Biomedical Research in Neurodegenerative Diseases (CIBERNED), ISCIII, Madrid, Spain
- Autonoma de Madrid University, Madrid, Spain
| | - Desireé Antequera
- Network Center for Biomedical Research in Neurodegenerative Diseases (CIBERNED), ISCIII, Madrid, Spain
- Neurobiology of Alzheimer's Disease Unit, Functional Unit for Research into Chronic Diseases, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ignacio Alcalde
- Instituto Universitario Fernández-Vega, Universidad de Oviedo and Fundación de Investigación Oftalmológica, Oviedo, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Principado de Asturias (ISPA), Oviedo, Spain
| | - Diego Megías
- Advanced Optical Microscopy Unit, Unidades Centrales Científico-Técnicas, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Joana Figueiro-Silva
- Institute of Medical Genetics, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Department of Molecular Life Science, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Jesús Merayo-Lloves
- Instituto Universitario Fernández-Vega, Universidad de Oviedo and Fundación de Investigación Oftalmológica, Oviedo, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Principado de Asturias (ISPA), Oviedo, Spain
| | - Cristina Municio
- Group of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre Research Institute (imas12), 28041, Madrid, Spain.
- Network Center for Biomedical Research in Neurodegenerative Diseases (CIBERNED), ISCIII, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Eva Carro
- Network Center for Biomedical Research in Neurodegenerative Diseases (CIBERNED), ISCIII, Madrid, Spain.
- Neurobiology of Alzheimer's Disease Unit, Functional Unit for Research into Chronic Diseases, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain.
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18
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Starnes AN, Jones JR. Inputs and Outputs of the Mammalian Circadian Clock. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:biology12040508. [PMID: 37106709 PMCID: PMC10136320 DOI: 10.3390/biology12040508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2023] [Revised: 03/16/2023] [Accepted: 03/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023]
Abstract
Circadian rhythms in mammals are coordinated by the central circadian pacemaker, the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN). Light and other environmental inputs change the timing of the SCN neural network oscillator, which, in turn, sends output signals that entrain daily behavioral and physiological rhythms. While much is known about the molecular, neuronal, and network properties of the SCN itself, the circuits linking the outside world to the SCN and the SCN to rhythmic outputs are understudied. In this article, we review our current understanding of the synaptic and non-synaptic inputs onto and outputs from the SCN. We propose that a more complete description of SCN connectivity is needed to better explain how rhythms in nearly all behaviors and physiological processes are generated and to determine how, mechanistically, these rhythms are disrupted by disease or lifestyle.
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19
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Campbell I, Sharifpour R, Vandewalle G. Light as a Modulator of Non-Image-Forming Brain Functions—Positive and Negative Impacts of Increasing Light Availability. Clocks Sleep 2023; 5:116-140. [PMID: 36975552 PMCID: PMC10047820 DOI: 10.3390/clockssleep5010012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2022] [Revised: 02/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Light use is rising steeply, mainly because of the advent of light-emitting diode (LED) devices. LEDs are frequently blue-enriched light sources and may have different impacts on the non-image forming (NIF) system, which is maximally sensitive to blue-wavelength light. Most importantly, the timing of LED device use is widespread, leading to novel light exposure patterns on the NIF system. The goal of this narrative review is to discuss the multiple aspects that we think should be accounted for when attempting to predict how this situation will affect the NIF impact of light on brain functions. We first cover both the image-forming and NIF pathways of the brain. We then detail our current understanding of the impact of light on human cognition, sleep, alertness, and mood. Finally, we discuss questions concerning the adoption of LED lighting and screens, which offer new opportunities to improve well-being, but also raise concerns about increasing light exposure, which may be detrimental to health, particularly in the evening.
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20
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Berry MH, Moldavan M, Garrett T, Meadows M, Cravetchi O, White E, Leffler J, von Gersdorff H, Wright KM, Allen CN, Sivyer B. A melanopsin ganglion cell subtype forms a dorsal retinal mosaic projecting to the supraoptic nucleus. Nat Commun 2023; 14:1492. [PMID: 36932080 PMCID: PMC10023714 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-36955-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 02/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Visual input to the hypothalamus from intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs) influences several functions including circadian entrainment, body temperature, and sleep. ipRGCs also project to nuclei such as the supraoptic nucleus (SON), which is involved in systemic fluid homeostasis, maternal behavior, social behaviors, and appetite. However, little is known about the SON-projecting ipRGCs or their relationship to well-characterized ipRGC subtypes. Using a GlyT2Cre mouse line, we show a subtype of ipRGCs restricted to the dorsal retina that selectively projects to the SON. These ipRGCs tile a dorsal region of the retina, forming a substrate for encoding ground luminance. Optogenetic activation of their axons demonstrates they release the neurotransmitter glutamate in multiple regions, including the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) and SON. Our results challenge the idea that ipRGC dendrites overlap to optimize photon capture and suggests non-image forming vision operates to sample local regions of the visual field to influence diverse behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael H Berry
- Department of Ophthalmology, Casey Eye Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
- Medical Scientist Training Program, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Michael Moldavan
- Oregon Institute of Occupational Health Sciences, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, USA
- Department of Behavioral Neuroscience, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Tavita Garrett
- Department of Ophthalmology, Casey Eye Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
- Neuroscience Graduate program, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Marc Meadows
- Neuroscience Graduate program, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
- Vollum Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Olga Cravetchi
- Oregon Institute of Occupational Health Sciences, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, USA
- Department of Behavioral Neuroscience, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Elizabeth White
- Department of Ophthalmology, Casey Eye Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Joseph Leffler
- Department of Ophthalmology, Casey Eye Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Henrique von Gersdorff
- Department of Ophthalmology, Casey Eye Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
- Vollum Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
- Department of Chemical Physiology and Biochemistry, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Kevin M Wright
- Vollum Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Charles N Allen
- Oregon Institute of Occupational Health Sciences, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, USA
- Department of Behavioral Neuroscience, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Benjamin Sivyer
- Department of Ophthalmology, Casey Eye Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA.
- Department of Chemical Physiology and Biochemistry, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA.
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21
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Mouland JW, Watson AJ, Martial FP, Lucas RJ, Brown TM. Colour and melanopsin mediated responses in the murine retina. Front Cell Neurosci 2023; 17:1114634. [PMID: 36993934 PMCID: PMC10040579 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2023.1114634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 02/17/2023] [Indexed: 03/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs) integrate melanopsin and rod/cone-mediated inputs to signal to the brain. Whilst originally identified as a cell type specialised for encoding ambient illumination, several lines of evidence indicate a strong association between colour discrimination and ipRGC-driven responses. Thus, cone-mediated colour opponent responses have been widely found across ipRGC target regions in the mouse brain and influence a key ipRGC-dependent function, circadian photoentrainment. Although ipRGCs exhibiting spectrally opponent responses have also been identified, the prevalence of such properties have not been systematically evaluated across the mouse retina or yet been found in ipRGC subtypes known to influence the circadian system. Indeed, there is still uncertainty around the overall prevalence of cone-dependent colour opponency across the mouse retina, given the strong retinal gradient in S and M-cone opsin (co)-expression and overlapping spectral sensitivities of most mouse opsins.Methods: To address this, we use photoreceptor isolating stimuli in multielectrode recordings from human red cone opsin knock-in mouse (Opn1mwR) retinas to systematically survey cone mediated responses and the occurrence of colour opponency across ganglion cell layer (GCL) neurons and identify ipRGCs based on spectral comparisons and/or the persistence of light responses under synaptic blockade.Results: Despite detecting robust cone-mediated responses across the retina, we find cone opponency is rare, especially outside of the central retina (overall ~3% of GCL neurons). In keeping with previous suggestions we also see some evidence of rod-cone opponency (albeit even more rare under our experimental conditions), but find no evidence for any enrichment of cone (or rod) opponent responses among functionally identified ipRGCs.Conclusion: In summary, these data suggest the widespread appearance of cone-opponency across the mouse early visual system and ipRGC-related responses may be an emergent feature of central visual processing mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua W. Mouland
- Centre for Biological Timing, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
- Division of Diabetes, Endocrinology and Gastroenterology, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
- *Correspondence: Joshua W. Mouland
| | - Alex J. Watson
- Centre for Biological Timing, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
- Division of Diabetes, Endocrinology and Gastroenterology, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Franck P. Martial
- Centre for Biological Timing, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
- Division of Neuroscience and Experimental Psychology, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Robert J. Lucas
- Centre for Biological Timing, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
- Division of Neuroscience and Experimental Psychology, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Timothy M. Brown
- Centre for Biological Timing, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
- Division of Diabetes, Endocrinology and Gastroenterology, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
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22
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Lan YQ, Yu MB, Zhan ZY, Huang YR, Zhao LW, Quan YD, Li ZJ, Sun DF, Wu YL, Wu HY, Liu ZT, Wu KL. Use of a tissue clearing technique combined with retrograde trans-synaptic viral tracing to evaluate changes in mouse retinorecipient brain regions following optic nerve crush. Neural Regen Res 2023; 18:913-921. [DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.353852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
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23
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Tang YL, Liu AL, Lv SS, Zhou ZR, Cao H, Weng SJ, Zhang YQ. Green light analgesia in mice is mediated by visual activation of enkephalinergic neurons in the ventrolateral geniculate nucleus. Sci Transl Med 2022; 14:eabq6474. [PMID: 36475906 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.abq6474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Green light exposure has been shown to reduce pain in animal models. Here, we report a vision-associated enkephalinergic neural circuit responsible for green light-mediated analgesia. Full-field green light exposure at an intensity of 10 lux produced analgesic effects in healthy mice and in a model of arthrosis. Ablation of cone photoreceptors completely inhibited the analgesic effect, whereas rod ablation only partially reduced pain relief. The analgesic effect was not modulated by the ablation of intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs), which are atypical photoreceptors that control various nonvisual effects of light. Inhibition of the retino-ventrolateral geniculate nucleus (vLGN) pathway completely abolished the analgesic effects. Activation of this pathway reduced nociceptive behavioral responses; such activation was blocked by the inhibition of proenkephalin (Penk)-positive neurons in the vLGN (vLGNPenk). Moreover, green light analgesia was prevented by knockdown of Penk in the vLGN or by ablation of vLGNPenk neurons. In addition, activation of the projections from vLGNPenk neurons to the dorsal raphe nucleus (DRN) was sufficient to suppress nociceptive behaviors, whereas its inhibition abolished the green light analgesia. Our findings indicate that cone-dominated retinal inputs mediated green light analgesia through the vLGNPenk-DRN pathway and suggest that this signaling pathway could be exploited for reducing pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Long Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Ai-Lin Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Su-Su Lv
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Zi-Rui Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Hong Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Shi-Jun Weng
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Yu-Qiu Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
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Reply to Sharifpour et al.: Light response measurement of the human SCN by 7T fMRI. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2022; 119:e2215410119. [PMID: 36445962 PMCID: PMC9894227 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2215410119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
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25
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van Beurden AW, Schoonderwoerd RA, Tersteeg MMH, de Torres Gutiérrez P, Michel S, Blommers R, Rohling JHT, Meijer JH. Single cell model for re-entrainment to a shifted light cycle. FASEB J 2022; 36:e22518. [PMID: 36057093 PMCID: PMC9543151 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202200478r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2022] [Revised: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Our daily 24-h rhythm is synchronized to the external light-dark cycle resulting from the Earth's daily rotation. In the mammalian brain, the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) serves as the master clock and receives light-mediated input via the retinohypothalamic tract. Abrupt changes in the timing of the light-dark cycle (e.g., due to jet lag) cause a phase shift in the circadian rhythms in the SCN. Here, we investigated the effects of a 6-h delay in the light-dark cycle on PERIOD2::LUCIFERASE expression at the single-cell level in mouse SCN organotypic explants. The ensemble pattern in phase shift response obtained from individual neurons in the anterior and central SCN revealed a bimodal distribution; specifically, neurons in the ventrolateral SCN responded with a rapid phase shift, while neurons in the dorsal SCN generally did not respond to the shift in the light-dark cycle. We also stimulated the hypothalamic tract in acute SCN slices to simulate light-mediated input to the SCN; interestingly, we found similarities between the distribution and fraction of rapid shifting neurons (in response to the delay) and neurons that were excited in response to electrical stimulation. These results suggest that a subpopulation of neurons in the ventral SCN that have an excitatory response to light input, shift their clock more readily than dorsal located neurons, and initiate the SCN's entrainment to the new light-dark cycle. Thus, we propose that light-excited neurons in the anterior and central SCN play an important role in the organism's ability to adjust to changes in the external light-dark cycle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anouk W van Beurden
- Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Robin A Schoonderwoerd
- Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Mayke M H Tersteeg
- Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | | | - Stephan Michel
- Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Ruben Blommers
- Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Jos H T Rohling
- Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Johanna H Meijer
- Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
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26
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Wen X, Liao P, Luo Y, Yang L, Yang H, Liu L, Jiang R. Tandem pore domain acid-sensitive K channel 3 (TASK-3) regulates visual sensitivity in healthy and aging retina. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2022; 8:eabn8785. [PMID: 36070380 PMCID: PMC9451158 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abn8785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) not only collect but also integrate visual signals and send them from the retina to the brain. The mechanisms underlying the RGC integration of synaptic activity within retinal circuits have not been fully explored. Here, we identified a pronounced expression of tandem pore domain acid-sensitive potassium channel 3 (TASK-3), a two-pore domain potassium channel (K2P), in RGCs. By using a specific antagonist and TASK-3 knockout mice, we found that TASK-3 regulates the intrinsic excitability and the light sensitivity of RGCs by sensing neuronal activity-dependent extracellular acidification. In vivo, the blockade or loss of TASK-3 dampened pupillary light reflex, visual acuity, and contrast sensitivity. Furthermore, overexpressing TASK-3 specifically in RGCs using an adeno-associated virus approach restored the visual function of TASK-3 knockout mice and aged mice where the expression and function of TASK-3 were reduced. Thus, our results provide evidence that implicates a critical role of K2P in visual processing in the retina.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangyi Wen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Department of Optometry and Visual Science, Laboratory of Optometry and Vision Sciences, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Ping Liao
- Laboratory of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, National-Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Translational Medicine of Anesthesiology, Department of Anesthesiology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Yuncheng Luo
- Laboratory of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, National-Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Translational Medicine of Anesthesiology, Department of Anesthesiology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Linghui Yang
- Laboratory of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, National-Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Translational Medicine of Anesthesiology, Department of Anesthesiology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Huaiyu Yang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Longqian Liu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Department of Optometry and Visual Science, Laboratory of Optometry and Vision Sciences, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
| | - Ruotian Jiang
- Laboratory of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, National-Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Translational Medicine of Anesthesiology, Department of Anesthesiology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, China
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Xiong X, Hu T, Yin Z, Zhang Y, Chen F, Lei P. Research advances in the study of sleep disorders, circadian rhythm disturbances and Alzheimer’s disease. Front Aging Neurosci 2022; 14:944283. [PMID: 36062143 PMCID: PMC9428322 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2022.944283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2022] [Accepted: 07/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Although there are still no satisfactory answers to the question of why we need to sleep, a better understanding of its function will help to improve societal attitudes toward sleep. Sleep disorders are very common in neurodegenerative diseases and are a key factor in the quality of life of patients and their families. Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is an insidious and irreversible neurodegenerative disease. Along with progressive cognitive impairment, sleep disorders and disturbances in circadian rhythms play a key role in the progression of AD. Sleep and circadian rhythm disturbances are more common in patients with AD than in the general population and can appear early in the course of the disease. Therefore, this review discusses the bidirectional relationships among circadian rhythm disturbances, sleep disorders, and AD. In addition, pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatment options for patients with AD and sleep disorders are outlined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangyang Xiong
- Department of Geriatrics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Tianpeng Hu
- Department of Geriatrics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Zhenyu Yin
- Department of Geriatrics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Yaodan Zhang
- Department of Geriatrics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | | | - Ping Lei
- Department of Geriatrics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
- *Correspondence: Ping Lei,
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28
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Schoonderwoerd RA, de Torres Gutiérrez P, Blommers R, van Beurden AW, Coenen TCJJ, Klett NJ, Michel SH, Meijer JH. Inhibitory responses to retinohypothalamic tract stimulation in the circadian clock of the diurnal rodent Rhabdomys pumilio. FASEB J 2022; 36:e22415. [PMID: 35867045 PMCID: PMC9544711 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202200477r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2022] [Revised: 05/24/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
In both diurnal and nocturnal mammals, the timing of activity is regulated by the central circadian clock of the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN). The SCN is synchronized to the external light cycle via the retinohypothalamic tract (RHT). To investigate potential differences in light processing between nocturnal mice and the diurnal rodent Rhabdomys pumilio, we mimicked retinal input by stimulation of the RHT ex vivo. Using Ca2+ imaging, we observed excitations as well as inhibitions of SCN neurons in response to electrical RHT stimulation. In mice, the vast majority of responses were excitatory (85%), whereas in Rhabdomys, the proportion of excitatory and inhibitory responses was similar (51% excitatory, 49% inhibitory). Glutamate blockers AP5 and CNQX blocked the excitatory responses to RHT stimulation but did not abolish the inhibitory responses in mice or Rhabdomys, indicating that the inhibitions were monosynaptically transmitted via the RHT. Simultaneous application of glutamate blockers with the GABAA antagonist gabazine blocked all inhibitory responses in mice, but not in Rhabdomys. Collectively, our results indicate that in Rhabdomys, considerably more inhibitory responses to light are present and that these responses are driven directly by the RHT. We propose that this increased proportion of inhibitory input could reflect a difference in the entrainment mechanism employed by diurnal rodents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robin A Schoonderwoerd
- Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | | | - Ruben Blommers
- Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Anouk W van Beurden
- Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Tineke C J J Coenen
- Central Animal Facility, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Nathan J Klett
- Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Stephan H Michel
- Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Johanna H Meijer
- Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
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29
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Xu J, Jo A, DeVries RP, Deniz S, Cherian S, Sunmola I, Song X, Marshall JJ, Gruner KA, Daigle TL, Contractor A, Lerner TN, Zeng H, Zhu Y. Intersectional mapping of multi-transmitter neurons and other cell types in the brain. Cell Rep 2022; 40:111036. [PMID: 35793636 PMCID: PMC9290751 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2022.111036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2021] [Revised: 04/04/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent developments in intersectional strategies have greatly advanced our ability to precisely target brain cell types based on unique co-expression patterns. To accelerate the application of intersectional genetics, we perform a brain-wide characterization of 13 Flp and tTA mouse driver lines and selected seven for further analysis based on expression of vesicular neurotransmitter transporters. Using selective Cre driver lines, we created more than 10 Cre/tTA combinational lines for cell type targeting and circuit analysis. We then used VGLUT-Cre/VGAT-Flp combinational lines to identify and map 30 brain regions containing neurons that co-express vesicular glutamate and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) transporters, followed by tracing their projections with intersectional viral vectors. Focusing on the lateral habenula (LHb) as a target, we identified glutamatergic, GABAergic, or co-glutamatergic/GABAergic innervations from ∼40 brain regions. These data provide an important resource for the future application of intersectional strategies and expand our understanding of the neuronal subtypes in the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Xu
- Departments of Ophthalmology and Neuroscience, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA; Department of Neuroscience, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Andrew Jo
- Departments of Ophthalmology and Neuroscience, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Raina P DeVries
- Department of Organismal Biology and Anatomy, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Sercan Deniz
- Departments of Ophthalmology and Neuroscience, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Suraj Cherian
- Departments of Ophthalmology and Neuroscience, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Idris Sunmola
- Departments of Ophthalmology and Neuroscience, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Xingqi Song
- School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - John J Marshall
- Department of Neuroscience, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Katherine A Gruner
- Mouse Histology and Phenotyping Laboratory, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Tanya L Daigle
- Allen Institute for Brain Science, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
| | - Anis Contractor
- Department of Neuroscience, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Talia N Lerner
- Department of Neuroscience, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Hongkui Zeng
- Allen Institute for Brain Science, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
| | - Yongling Zhu
- Departments of Ophthalmology and Neuroscience, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA; Department of Neuroscience, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA.
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30
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Lee C, Liang F, Lee I, Lu T, Shan Y, Jeng C, Zou Y, Yu H, Chen (Alen) S. External light‐dark cycle shapes gut microbiota through intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells. EMBO Rep 2022; 23:e52316. [PMID: 35476894 PMCID: PMC9171413 DOI: 10.15252/embr.202052316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Revised: 12/24/2021] [Accepted: 03/18/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Gut microbiota are involved in many physiological functions such as metabolism, brain development, and neurodegenerative diseases. Many microbes in the digestive tract do not maintain a constant level of their relative abundance but show daily oscillations under normal conditions. Recent evidence indicates that chronic jetlag, constant darkness, or deletion of the circadian core gene can alter the composition of gut microbiota and dampen the daily oscillation of gut microbes. However, the neuronal circuit responsible for modulating gut microbiota remained unclear. Using genetic mouse models and 16s rRNA metagenomic analysis, we find that light-dark cycle information transmitted by the intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs) is essential for daily oscillations of gut microbes under temporal restricted high-fat diet conditions. Furthermore, aberrant light exposure such as dim light at night (dLAN) can alter the composition, relative abundance, and daily oscillations of gut microbiota. Together, our results indicate that external light-dark cycle information can modulate gut microbiota in the direction from the brain to the gut via the sensory system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chi‐Chan Lee
- Department of Life Science National Taiwan University Taipei Taiwan
| | - Feng Liang
- Department of Life Science National Taiwan University Taipei Taiwan
| | - I‐Chi Lee
- Department of Life Science National Taiwan University Taipei Taiwan
| | - Tsung‐Hao Lu
- Department of Life Science National Taiwan University Taipei Taiwan
| | - Yu‐Yau Shan
- Department of Life Science National Taiwan University Taipei Taiwan
| | - Chih‐Fan Jeng
- Department of Life Science National Taiwan University Taipei Taiwan
| | - Yan‐Fang Zou
- Department of Life Science National Taiwan University Taipei Taiwan
| | - Hon‐Tsen Yu
- Department of Life Science National Taiwan University Taipei Taiwan
- Genome and Systems Biology Degree Program National Taiwan University and Academia Sinica Taipei Taiwan
| | - Shih‐Kuo Chen (Alen)
- Department of Life Science National Taiwan University Taipei Taiwan
- Genome and Systems Biology Degree Program National Taiwan University and Academia Sinica Taipei Taiwan
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31
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Abstract
Retinal circuits transform the pixel representation of photoreceptors into the feature representations of ganglion cells, whose axons transmit these representations to the brain. Functional, morphological, and transcriptomic surveys have identified more than 40 retinal ganglion cell (RGC) types in mice. RGCs extract features of varying complexity; some simply signal local differences in brightness (i.e., luminance contrast), whereas others detect specific motion trajectories. To understand the retina, we need to know how retinal circuits give rise to the diverse RGC feature representations. A catalog of the RGC feature set, in turn, is fundamental to understanding visual processing in the brain. Anterograde tracing indicates that RGCs innervate more than 50 areas in the mouse brain. Current maps connecting RGC types to brain areas are rudimentary, as is our understanding of how retinal signals are transformed downstream to guide behavior. In this article, I review the feature selectivities of mouse RGCs, how they arise, and how they are utilized downstream. Not only is knowledge of the behavioral purpose of RGC signals critical for understanding the retinal contributions to vision; it can also guide us to the most relevant areas of visual feature space. Expected final online publication date for the Annual Review of Vision Science, Volume 8 is September 2022. Please see http://www.annualreviews.org/page/journal/pubdates for revised estimates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Kerschensteiner
- John F. Hardesty, MD, Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences; Department of Neuroscience; Department of Biomedical Engineering; and Hope Center for Neurological Disorders, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, Missouri, USA;
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32
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Kim S, Nam Y, Kim HS, Jung H, Jeon SG, Hong SB, Moon M. Alteration of Neural Pathways and Its Implications in Alzheimer’s Disease. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10040845. [PMID: 35453595 PMCID: PMC9025507 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10040845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Revised: 03/29/2022] [Accepted: 03/31/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disease accompanied by cognitive and behavioral symptoms. These AD-related manifestations result from the alteration of neural circuitry by aggregated forms of amyloid-β (Aβ) and hyperphosphorylated tau, which are neurotoxic. From a neuroscience perspective, identifying neural circuits that integrate various inputs and outputs to determine behaviors can provide insight into the principles of behavior. Therefore, it is crucial to understand the alterations in the neural circuits associated with AD-related behavioral and psychological symptoms. Interestingly, it is well known that the alteration of neural circuitry is prominent in the brains of patients with AD. Here, we selected specific regions in the AD brain that are associated with AD-related behavioral and psychological symptoms, and reviewed studies of healthy and altered efferent pathways to the target regions. Moreover, we propose that specific neural circuits that are altered in the AD brain can be potential targets for AD treatment. Furthermore, we provide therapeutic implications for targeting neuronal circuits through various therapeutic approaches and the appropriate timing of treatment for AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sujin Kim
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Konyang University, 158, Gwanjeodong-ro, Seo-gu, Daejeon 35365, Korea; (S.K.); (Y.N.); (H.s.K.); (H.J.); (S.G.J.); (S.B.H.)
- Research Institute for Dementia Science, Konyang University, 158, Gwanjeodong-ro, Seo-gu, Daejeon 35365, Korea
| | - Yunkwon Nam
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Konyang University, 158, Gwanjeodong-ro, Seo-gu, Daejeon 35365, Korea; (S.K.); (Y.N.); (H.s.K.); (H.J.); (S.G.J.); (S.B.H.)
| | - Hyeon soo Kim
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Konyang University, 158, Gwanjeodong-ro, Seo-gu, Daejeon 35365, Korea; (S.K.); (Y.N.); (H.s.K.); (H.J.); (S.G.J.); (S.B.H.)
| | - Haram Jung
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Konyang University, 158, Gwanjeodong-ro, Seo-gu, Daejeon 35365, Korea; (S.K.); (Y.N.); (H.s.K.); (H.J.); (S.G.J.); (S.B.H.)
| | - Seong Gak Jeon
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Konyang University, 158, Gwanjeodong-ro, Seo-gu, Daejeon 35365, Korea; (S.K.); (Y.N.); (H.s.K.); (H.J.); (S.G.J.); (S.B.H.)
| | - Sang Bum Hong
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Konyang University, 158, Gwanjeodong-ro, Seo-gu, Daejeon 35365, Korea; (S.K.); (Y.N.); (H.s.K.); (H.J.); (S.G.J.); (S.B.H.)
| | - Minho Moon
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Konyang University, 158, Gwanjeodong-ro, Seo-gu, Daejeon 35365, Korea; (S.K.); (Y.N.); (H.s.K.); (H.J.); (S.G.J.); (S.B.H.)
- Research Institute for Dementia Science, Konyang University, 158, Gwanjeodong-ro, Seo-gu, Daejeon 35365, Korea
- Correspondence:
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Abstract
SignificanceThe function of our biological clock is dependent on environmental light. Rodent studies have shown that there are multiple colors that affect the clock, but indirect measures in humans suggest blue light is key. We performed functional MRI studies in human subjects with unprecedented spatial resolution to investigate color sensitivity of our clock. Here, we show that narrowband blue, green, and orange light were all effective in changing neuronal activity of the clock. While the clock of nocturnal rodents is excited by light, the human clock responds with a decrease in neuronal activity as indicated by a negative BOLD response. The sensitivity of the clock to multiple colors should be integrated in light therapy aimed to strengthen our 24-h rhythms.
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Abed S, Reilly A, Arnold SJ, Feldheim DA. Adult Expression of Tbr2 Is Required for the Maintenance but Not Survival of Intrinsically Photosensitive Retinal Ganglion Cells. Front Cell Neurosci 2022; 16:826590. [PMID: 35401124 PMCID: PMC8983909 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2022.826590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Accepted: 02/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Retinal ganglion cells expressing the photopigment melanopsin are intrinsically photosensitive (ipRGCs). ipRGCs regulate subconscious non-image-forming behaviors such as circadian rhythms, pupil dilation, and light-mediated mood. Previously, we and others showed that the transcription factor Tbr2 (EOMES) is required during retinal development for the formation of ipRGCs. Tbr2 is also expressed in the adult retina leading to the hypothesis that it plays a role in adult ipRGC function. To test this, we removed Tbr2 in adult mice. We found that this results in the loss of melanopsin expression in ipRGCs but does not lead to cell death or morphological changes to their dendritic or axonal termination patterns. Additionally, we found ectopic expression of Tbr2 in conventional RGCs does not induce melanopsin expression but can increase melanopsin expression in existing ipRGCs. An interesting feature of ipRGCs is their superior survival relative to conventional RGCs after an optic nerve injury. We find that loss of Tbr2 decreases the survival rate of ipRGCs after optic nerve damage suggesting that Tbr2 plays a role in ipRGC survival after injury. Lastly, we show that the GABAergic amacrine cell marker Meis2, is expressed in the majority of Tbr2-expressing displaced amacrine cells as well as in a subset of Tbr2-expressing RGCs. These findings demonstrate that Tbr2 is necessary but not sufficient for melanopsin expression, that Tbr2 is involved in ipRGC survival after optic nerve injury, and identify a marker for Tbr2-expressing displaced amacrine cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sadaf Abed
- Department of Molecular, Cell, and Developmental Biology, University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, United States
| | - Andreea Reilly
- Department of Molecular, Cell, and Developmental Biology, University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, United States
| | - Sebastian J. Arnold
- Institute of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - David A. Feldheim
- Department of Molecular, Cell, and Developmental Biology, University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, United States
- *Correspondence: David A. Feldheim,
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35
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Klett NJ, Cravetchi O, Allen CN. Long-Term Imaging Reveals a Circadian Rhythm of Intracellular Chloride in Neurons of the Suprachiasmatic Nucleus. J Biol Rhythms 2022; 37:110-123. [PMID: 34994231 DOI: 10.1177/07487304211059770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Both inhibitory and excitatory GABA transmission exist in the mature suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN), the master pacemaker of circadian physiology. Whether GABA is inhibitory or excitatory depends on the intracellular chloride concentration ([Cl-]i). Here, using the genetically encoded ratiometric probe Cl-Sensor, we investigated [Cl-]i in AVP and VIP-expressing SCN neurons for several days in culture. The chloride ratio (RCl) demonstrated circadian rhythmicity in AVP + neurons and VIP + neurons, but was not detected in GFAP + astrocytes. RCl peaked between ZT 7 and ZT 8 in both AVP + and VIP + neurons. RCl rhythmicity was not dependent on the activity of several transmembrane chloride carriers, action potential generation, or the L-type voltage-gated calcium channels, but was sensitive to GABA antagonists. We conclude that [Cl-]i is under circadian regulation in both AVP + and VIP + neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathan J Klett
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA.,Oregon Institute for Occupational Health Sciences, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA.,Neurophysiology, Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Olga Cravetchi
- Oregon Institute for Occupational Health Sciences, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Charles N Allen
- Oregon Institute for Occupational Health Sciences, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA.,Department of Behavioral Neuroscience, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
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36
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Beyond irradiance: Visual signals influencing mammalian circadian function. PROGRESS IN BRAIN RESEARCH 2022; 273:145-169. [DOI: 10.1016/bs.pbr.2022.04.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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37
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Bano-Otalora B, Moye MJ, Brown T, Lucas RJ, Diekman CO, Belle MD. Daily electrical activity in the master circadian clock of a diurnal mammal. eLife 2021; 10:68179. [PMID: 34845984 PMCID: PMC8631794 DOI: 10.7554/elife.68179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2021] [Accepted: 10/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Circadian rhythms in mammals are orchestrated by a central clock within the suprachiasmatic nuclei (SCN). Our understanding of the electrophysiological basis of SCN activity comes overwhelmingly from a small number of nocturnal rodent species, and the extent to which these are retained in day-active animals remains unclear. Here, we recorded the spontaneous and evoked electrical activity of single SCN neurons in the diurnal rodent Rhabdomys pumilio, and developed cutting-edge data assimilation and mathematical modeling approaches to uncover the underlying ionic mechanisms. As in nocturnal rodents, R. pumilio SCN neurons were more excited during daytime hours. By contrast, the evoked activity of R. pumilio neurons included a prominent suppressive response that is not present in the SCN of nocturnal rodents. Our modeling revealed and subsequent experiments confirmed transient subthreshold A-type potassium channels as the primary determinant of this response, and suggest a key role for this ionic mechanism in optimizing SCN function to accommodate R. pumilio's diurnal niche.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatriz Bano-Otalora
- Centre for Biological Timing, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom.,Division of Neuroscience and Experimental Psychology, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Matthew J Moye
- Department of Mathematical Sciences, New Jersey Institute of Technology, Newark, United States.,Department of Quantitative Pharmacology and Pharmacometrics (QP2), Kenilworth, United States
| | - Timothy Brown
- Centre for Biological Timing, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom.,Division of Diabetes, Endocrinology and Gastroenterology, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Robert J Lucas
- Centre for Biological Timing, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom.,Division of Neuroscience and Experimental Psychology, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Casey O Diekman
- Department of Mathematical Sciences, New Jersey Institute of Technology, Newark, United States.,EPSRC Centre for Predictive Modelling in Healthcare, Living Systems Institute, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - Mino Dc Belle
- Institute of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, University of Exeter Medical School, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
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38
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Xu P, Berto S, Kulkarni A, Jeong B, Joseph C, Cox KH, Greenberg ME, Kim TK, Konopka G, Takahashi JS. NPAS4 regulates the transcriptional response of the suprachiasmatic nucleus to light and circadian behavior. Neuron 2021; 109:3268-3282.e6. [PMID: 34416169 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2021.07.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2021] [Revised: 06/12/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
The suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) is the master circadian pacemaker in mammals and is entrained by environmental light. However, the molecular basis of the response of the SCN to light is not fully understood. We used RNA/chromatin immunoprecipitation/single-nucleus sequencing with circadian behavioral assays to identify mouse SCN cell types and explore their responses to light. We identified three peptidergic cell types that responded to light in the SCN: arginine vasopressin (AVP), vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP), and cholecystokinin (CCK). In each cell type, light-responsive subgroups were enriched for expression of neuronal Per-Arnt-Sim (PAS) domain protein 4 (NPAS4) target genes. Further, mice lacking Npas4 had a longer circadian period under constant conditions, a damped phase response curve to light, and reduced light-induced gene expression in the SCN. Our data indicate that NPAS4 is necessary for normal transcriptional responses to light in the SCN and critical for photic phase-shifting of circadian behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pin Xu
- Department of Neuroscience, Peter O'Donnell Jr. Brain Institute, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Stefano Berto
- Department of Neuroscience, Peter O'Donnell Jr. Brain Institute, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Ashwinikumar Kulkarni
- Department of Neuroscience, Peter O'Donnell Jr. Brain Institute, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Byeongha Jeong
- Department of Neuroscience, Peter O'Donnell Jr. Brain Institute, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Chryshanthi Joseph
- Department of Neuroscience, Peter O'Donnell Jr. Brain Institute, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Kimberly H Cox
- Department of Neuroscience, Peter O'Donnell Jr. Brain Institute, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | | | - Tae-Kyung Kim
- Department of Neuroscience, Peter O'Donnell Jr. Brain Institute, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Genevieve Konopka
- Department of Neuroscience, Peter O'Donnell Jr. Brain Institute, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Joseph S Takahashi
- Department of Neuroscience, Peter O'Donnell Jr. Brain Institute, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA.
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39
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Gabriel E, Albanna W, Pasquini G, Ramani A, Josipovic N, Mariappan A, Schinzel F, Karch CM, Bao G, Gottardo M, Suren AA, Hescheler J, Nagel-Wolfrum K, Persico V, Rizzoli SO, Altmüller J, Riparbelli MG, Callaini G, Goureau O, Papantonis A, Busskamp V, Schneider T, Gopalakrishnan J. Human brain organoids assemble functionally integrated bilateral optic vesicles. Cell Stem Cell 2021; 28:1740-1757.e8. [PMID: 34407456 DOI: 10.1016/j.stem.2021.07.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2020] [Revised: 04/23/2021] [Accepted: 07/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
During embryogenesis, optic vesicles develop from the diencephalon via a multistep process of organogenesis. Using induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived human brain organoids, we attempted to simplify the complexities and demonstrate formation of forebrain-associated bilateral optic vesicles, cellular diversity, and functionality. Around day 30, brain organoids attempt to assemble optic vesicles, which develop progressively as visible structures within 60 days. These optic vesicle-containing brain organoids (OVB-organoids) constitute a developing optic vesicle's cellular components, including primitive corneal epithelial and lens-like cells, retinal pigment epithelia, retinal progenitor cells, axon-like projections, and electrically active neuronal networks. OVB-organoids also display synapsin-1, CTIP-positive myelinated cortical neurons, and microglia. Interestingly, various light intensities could trigger photosensitive activity of OVB-organoids, and light sensitivities could be reset after transient photobleaching. Thus, brain organoids have the intrinsic ability to self-organize forebrain-associated primitive sensory structures in a topographically restricted manner and can allow interorgan interaction studies within a single organoid.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elke Gabriel
- Institute of Human Genetics, University Hospital, Heinrich-Heine-Universität, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Walid Albanna
- Institute for Neurophysiology, University of Cologne, 50931 Cologne, Germany; Department of Neurosurgery, RWTH Aachen University, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | - Giovanni Pasquini
- Department of Ophthalmology, Medical Faculty, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Anand Ramani
- Institute of Human Genetics, University Hospital, Heinrich-Heine-Universität, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Natasa Josipovic
- Institute of Pathology, University Medicine Göttingen, Georg-August University Göttingen, 37075 Göttingen, Germany; Center for molecular medicine, Cologne, Universität zu Köln, 50931 Köln, Germany
| | - Aruljothi Mariappan
- Institute of Human Genetics, University Hospital, Heinrich-Heine-Universität, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Friedrich Schinzel
- Institute of Human Genetics, University Hospital, Heinrich-Heine-Universität, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Celeste M Karch
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO 63116, USA
| | - Guobin Bao
- Institute of Neurophysiology and Cellular Biophysics, University Medicine Göttingen, Georg-August-Universität Göttingen, 37073 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Marco Gottardo
- Institute of Human Genetics, University Hospital, Heinrich-Heine-Universität, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Ata Alp Suren
- Institute of Human Genetics, University Hospital, Heinrich-Heine-Universität, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Jürgen Hescheler
- Institute for Neurophysiology, University of Cologne, 50931 Cologne, Germany
| | - Kerstin Nagel-Wolfrum
- Institute of Molecular Physiology, Johannes Gutenberg University, 55099 Mainz, Germany
| | - Veronica Persico
- Department of Life Sciences and Medical Biotechnology University of Siena, Siena 53100, Italy
| | - Silvio O Rizzoli
- Institute of Neurophysiology and Cellular Biophysics, University Medicine Göttingen, Georg-August-Universität Göttingen, 37073 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Janine Altmüller
- Cologne Center for Genomics (CCG), Universität zu Köln, Köln, Germany; Center for molecular medicine, Cologne, Universität zu Köln, 50931 Köln, Germany
| | | | - Giuliano Callaini
- Department of Life Sciences and Medical Biotechnology University of Siena, Siena 53100, Italy
| | - Olivier Goureau
- Institut de la Vision, Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, 75012 Paris, France
| | - Argyris Papantonis
- Institute of Pathology, University Medicine Göttingen, Georg-August University Göttingen, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Volker Busskamp
- Department of Ophthalmology, Medical Faculty, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Toni Schneider
- Institute for Neurophysiology, University of Cologne, 50931 Cologne, Germany
| | - Jay Gopalakrishnan
- Institute of Human Genetics, University Hospital, Heinrich-Heine-Universität, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany.
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Salay LD, Huberman AD. Divergent outputs of the ventral lateral geniculate nucleus mediate visually evoked defensive behaviors. Cell Rep 2021; 37:109792. [PMID: 34610302 PMCID: PMC10954303 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2021.109792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2020] [Revised: 08/24/2021] [Accepted: 09/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Rapid alternations between exploration and defensive reactions require ongoing risk assessment. How visual cues and internal states flexibly modulate the selection of behaviors remains incompletely understood. Here, we show that the ventral lateral geniculate nucleus (vLGN)-a major retinorecipient structure-is a critical node in the network controlling defensive behaviors to visual threats. We find that vLGNGABA neuron activity scales with the intensity of environmental illumination and is modulated by behavioral state. Chemogenetic activation of vLGNGABA neurons reduces freezing, whereas inactivation dramatically extends the duration of freezing to visual threats. Perturbations of vLGN activity disrupt exploration in brightly illuminated environments. We describe both a vLGN→nucleus reuniens (Re) circuit and a vLGN→superior colliculus (SC) circuit, which exert opposite influences on defensive responses. These findings reveal roles for genetic- and projection-defined vLGN subpopulations in modulating the expression of behavioral threat responses according to internal state.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsey D Salay
- Department of Neurobiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Andrew D Huberman
- Department of Neurobiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA; Department of Ophthalmology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA; BioX, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA.
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41
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The retinal ipRGC-preoptic circuit mediates the acute effect of light on sleep. Nat Commun 2021; 12:5115. [PMID: 34433830 PMCID: PMC8387462 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-25378-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2020] [Accepted: 07/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Light regulates daily sleep rhythms by a neural circuit that connects intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs) to the circadian pacemaker, the suprachiasmatic nucleus. Light, however, also acutely affects sleep in a circadian-independent manner. The neural circuits involving the acute effect of light on sleep remain unknown. Here we uncovered a neural circuit that drives this acute light response, independent of the suprachiasmatic nucleus, but still through ipRGCs. We show that ipRGCs substantially innervate the preoptic area (POA) to mediate the acute light effect on sleep in mice. Consistently, activation of either the POA projecting ipRGCs or the light-responsive POA neurons increased non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep without influencing REM sleep. In addition, inhibition of the light-responsive POA neurons blocked the acute light effects on NREM sleep. The predominant light-responsive POA neurons that receive ipRGC input belong to the corticotropin-releasing hormone subpopulation. Remarkably, the light-responsive POA neurons are inhibitory and project to well-known wakefulness-promoting brain regions, such as the tuberomammillary nucleus and the lateral hypothalamus. Therefore, activation of the ipRGC-POA circuit inhibits arousal brain regions to drive light-induced NREM sleep. Our findings reveal a functional retina-brain circuit that is both necessary and sufficient for the acute effect of light on sleep. The preoptic area (POA) is critical for sleep regulation but its role in acute, non-circadian, light effects on sleep are unclear. The authors show that intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells provide substantial input into the POA and through these modulate the amount of non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep.
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42
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Lee S, Chen M, Shi Y, Zhou ZJ. Selective glycinergic input from vGluT3 amacrine cells confers a suppressed-by-contrast trigger feature in a subtype of M1 ipRGCs in the mouse retina. J Physiol 2021; 599:5047-5060. [PMID: 34292589 DOI: 10.1113/jp281717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Accepted: 07/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
KEY POINTS M1 intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs) are known to encode absolute light intensity (irradiance) for non-image-forming visual functions (subconscious vision), such as circadian photoentrainment and the pupillary light reflex. It remains unclear how M1 cells respond to relative light intensity (contrast) and patterned visual signals. The present study identified a special form of contrast sensitivity (suppressed-by-contrast) in M1 cells, suggesting a role of patterned visual signals in regulating non-image-forming vision and a potential role of M1 ipRGCs in encoding image-forming visual cues. The study also uncovered a synaptic mechanism and a retinal circuit mediated by vesicular glutamate transporter 3 (vGluT3) amacrine cells that underlie the suppressed-by-contrast response of M1 cells. M1 ipRGC subtypes (M1a and M1b) were revealed that are distinguishable based on synaptic connectivity with vGluT3 amacrine cells, receptive field properties, intrinsic photo sensitivity and membrane excitability, and morphological features, suggesting a division of visual tasks among discrete M1 subpopulations. ABSTRACT The M1 type ipRGC (intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cell) is known to encode ambient light signals for non-image-forming visual functions such as circadian photo-entrainment and the pupillary light reflex. Here, we report that a subpopulation of M1 cells (M1a) in the mouse retina possess the suppressed-by-contrast (sbc) trigger feature that is a receptive field property previously found only in ganglion cells mediating image-forming vision. Using optogenetics and the dual patch clamp technique, we found that vesicular glutamate transporter 3 (vGluT3) (vGluT3) amacrine cells make glycinergic, but not glutamatergic, synapses specifically onto M1a cells. The spatiotemporal and pharmacological properties of visually evoked responses of M1a cells closely matched the receptive field characteristics of vGluT3 cells, suggesting a major role of the vGluT3 amacrine cell input in shaping the sbc trigger feature of M1a cells. We found that the other subpopulation of M1 cells (M1b), which did not receive a direct vGluT3 cell input, lacked the sbc trigger feature, being distinctively different from M1a cells in intrinsic photo responses, membrane excitability, receptive-field characteristics and morphological features. Together, the results reveal a retinal circuit that uses the sbc trigger feature to regulate irradiance coding and potentially send image-forming cues to non-image-forming visual centres in the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seunghoon Lee
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Minggang Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Yuelin Shi
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Z Jimmy Zhou
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA.,Department of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA.,Department of Neuroscience, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
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43
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Moldavan M, Cravetchi O, Allen CN. Diurnal properties of tonic and synaptic GABA A receptor-mediated currents in suprachiasmatic nucleus neurons. J Neurophysiol 2021; 126:637-652. [PMID: 34259044 DOI: 10.1152/jn.00556.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Synaptic and extrasynaptic GABAA receptor (GABAAR)-mediated neurotransmission is a critical component of the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) neuronal network. However, the properties of the GABAA tonic current (Itonic) and its origin remain unexplored. Spontaneous GABAA postsynaptic currents (sGPSCs) and Itonic were recorded from SCN neurons with the whole cell voltage-clamp technique at different times of the day. GABAAR antagonists (bicuculline, gabazine, and picrotoxin) inhibited sGPSC and induced an outward shift of the holding current, which defined the Itonic amplitude. The sGPSC frequency, synaptic charge transfer, and Itonic amplitude all demonstrated significant diurnal rhythms, with peaks in the middle of the day [zeitgeber time (ZT)7-8] and nadirs at night (ZT19-20). The Itonic amplitude increased proportionally with the sGPSC frequency and synaptic charge transfer during the day and required action potential-mediated GABA release, which was confirmed by TTX application. The activation of presynaptic GABAB receptors by baclofen did not significantly alter the Itonic of neurons with low-frequency sGPSC. The equilibrium potential (Eq) for Itonic was similar to the Eq for chloride and GABAA receptor-activated currents. Itonic showed outward rectification at membrane potentials over the range of -70 to -10 mV and then was linear at voltages greater than -10 mV. GABAAR containing α4-, α5-, and δ-subunits were expressed in SCN, and their contribution to Itonic was confirmed by application of the GABAAR agonist 4,5,6,7-tetrahydroisoxazolo[5,4-c]pyridin-3-ol (THIP) and the GABAAR inverse agonist 11,12,13,13a-tetrahydro-7-methoxy-9-oxo-9H-imidazo[1,5-a]pyrrolo[2,1-c][1,4]benzodiazepine-1-carboxylic acid ethyl ester (L655,708). Thus, the Itonic was mediated by extrasynaptic GABAARs activated predominantly by GABA diffusing out of GABAergic synapses.NEW & NOTEWORTHY A tonic current (Itonic) mediated by GABAA receptors (GABAARs) containing α4-, α5- and δ-subunits was observed in the suprachiasmatic nucleus. The Itonic amplitude strongly depended on the action potential-mediated synaptic release of GABA. The equilibrium potential for Itonic corresponds to that for GABAA currents. The frequency of GABAA postsynaptic currents and Itonic amplitude increased during the day, with peak in the middle of the day, and then gradually declined with a nadir at night, thus showing a diurnal rhythm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Moldavan
- Oregon Institute of Occupational Health Sciences, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon
| | - Olga Cravetchi
- Oregon Institute of Occupational Health Sciences, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon
| | - Charles N Allen
- Oregon Institute of Occupational Health Sciences, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon.,Department of Behavioral Neuroscience, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon
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Afraid of the dark: Light acutely suppresses activity in the human amygdala. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0252350. [PMID: 34133439 PMCID: PMC8208532 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0252350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2021] [Accepted: 05/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Light improves mood. The amygdala plays a critical role in regulating emotion, including fear-related responses. In rodents the amygdala receives direct light input from the retina, and light may play a role in fear-related learning. A direct effect of light on the amygdala represents a plausible mechanism of action for light’s mood-elevating effects in humans. However, the effect of light on activity in the amygdala in humans is not well understood. We examined the effect of passive dim-to-moderate white light exposure on activation of the amygdala in healthy young adults using the BOLD fMRI response (3T Siemens scanner; n = 23). Participants were exposed to alternating 30s blocks of light (10 lux or 100 lux) and dark (<1 lux), with each light intensity being presented separately. Light, compared with dark, suppressed activity in the amygdala. Moderate light exposure resulted in greater suppression of amygdala activity than dim light. Furthermore, functional connectivity between the amygdala and ventro-medial prefrontal cortex was enhanced during light relative to dark. These effects may contribute to light’s mood-elevating effects, via a reduction in negative, fear-related affect and enhanced processing of negative emotion.
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45
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Lyu J, Mu X. Genetic control of retinal ganglion cell genesis. Cell Mol Life Sci 2021; 78:4417-4433. [PMID: 33782712 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-021-03814-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2021] [Revised: 02/27/2021] [Accepted: 03/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) are the only projection neurons in the neural retina. They receive and integrate visual signals from upstream retinal neurons in the visual circuitry and transmit them to the brain. The function of RGCs is performed by the approximately 40 RGC types projecting to various central brain targets. RGCs are the first cell type to form during retinogenesis. The specification and differentiation of the RGC lineage is a stepwise process; a hierarchical gene regulatory network controlling the RGC lineage has been identified and continues to be elaborated. Recent studies with single-cell transcriptomics have led to unprecedented new insights into their types and developmental trajectory. In this review, we summarize our current understanding of the functions and relationships of the many regulators of the specification and differentiation of the RGC lineage. We emphasize the roles of these key transcription factors and pathways in different developmental steps, including the transition from retinal progenitor cells (RPCs) to RGCs, RGC differentiation, generation of diverse RGC types, and central projection of the RGC axons. We discuss critical issues that remain to be addressed for a comprehensive understanding of these different aspects of RGC genesis and emerging technologies, including single-cell techniques, novel genetic tools and resources, and high-throughput genome editing and screening assays, which can be leveraged in future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianyi Lyu
- Department of Ophthalmology/Ross Eye Institute, State University of New York At Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, 14203, USA
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China
| | - Xiuqian Mu
- Department of Ophthalmology/Ross Eye Institute, State University of New York At Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, 14203, USA.
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46
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Tabuchi M, Coates KE, Bautista OB, Zukowski LH. Light/Clock Influences Membrane Potential Dynamics to Regulate Sleep States. Front Neurol 2021; 12:625369. [PMID: 33854471 PMCID: PMC8039321 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2021.625369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2020] [Accepted: 02/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The circadian rhythm is a fundamental process that regulates the sleep-wake cycle. This rhythm is regulated by core clock genes that oscillate to create a physiological rhythm of circadian neuronal activity. However, we do not know much about the mechanism by which circadian inputs influence neurons involved in sleep-wake architecture. One possible mechanism involves the photoreceptor cryptochrome (CRY). In Drosophila, CRY is receptive to blue light and resets the circadian rhythm. CRY also influences membrane potential dynamics that regulate neural activity of circadian clock neurons in Drosophila, including the temporal structure in sequences of spikes, by interacting with subunits of the voltage-dependent potassium channel. Moreover, several core clock molecules interact with voltage-dependent/independent channels, channel-binding protein, and subunits of the electrogenic ion pump. These components cooperatively regulate mechanisms that translate circadian photoreception and the timing of clock genes into changes in membrane excitability, such as neural firing activity and polarization sensitivity. In clock neurons expressing CRY, these mechanisms also influence synaptic plasticity. In this review, we propose that membrane potential dynamics created by circadian photoreception and core clock molecules are critical for generating the set point of synaptic plasticity that depend on neural coding. In this way, membrane potential dynamics drive formation of baseline sleep architecture, light-driven arousal, and memory processing. We also discuss the machinery that coordinates membrane excitability in circadian networks found in Drosophila, and we compare this machinery to that found in mammalian systems. Based on this body of work, we propose future studies that can better delineate how neural codes impact molecular/cellular signaling and contribute to sleep, memory processing, and neurological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masashi Tabuchi
- Department of Neurosciences, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, United States
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47
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Ruan W, Yuan X, Eltzschig HK. Circadian rhythm as a therapeutic target. Nat Rev Drug Discov 2021; 20:287-307. [PMID: 33589815 DOI: 10.1038/s41573-020-00109-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 158] [Impact Index Per Article: 52.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The circadian clock evolved in diverse organisms to integrate external environmental changes and internal physiology. The clock endows the host with temporal precision and robust adaptation to the surrounding environment. When circadian rhythms are perturbed or misaligned, as a result of jet lag, shiftwork or other lifestyle factors, adverse health consequences arise, and the risks of diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases or metabolic disorders increase. Although the negative impact of circadian rhythm disruption is now well established, it remains underappreciated how to take advantage of biological timing, or correct it, for health benefits. In this Review, we provide an updated account of the circadian system and highlight several key disease areas with altered circadian signalling. We discuss environmental and lifestyle modifications of circadian rhythm and clock-based therapeutic strategies, including chronotherapy, in which dosing time is deliberately optimized for maximum therapeutic index, and pharmacological agents that target core clock components and proximal regulators. Promising progress in research, disease models and clinical applications should encourage a concerted effort towards a new era of circadian medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Ruan
- Department of Anesthesiology, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA.,Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Xiaoyi Yuan
- Department of Anesthesiology, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Holger K Eltzschig
- Department of Anesthesiology, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA.
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48
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Aranda ML, Schmidt TM. Diversity of intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells: circuits and functions. Cell Mol Life Sci 2021; 78:889-907. [PMID: 32965515 PMCID: PMC8650628 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-020-03641-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2020] [Revised: 08/10/2020] [Accepted: 09/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
The melanopsin-expressing, intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs) are a relatively recently discovered class of atypical ganglion cell photoreceptor. These ipRGCs are a morphologically and physiologically heterogeneous population that project widely throughout the brain and mediate a wide array of visual functions ranging from photoentrainment of our circadian rhythms, to driving the pupillary light reflex to improve visual function, to modulating our mood, alertness, learning, sleep/wakefulness, regulation of body temperature, and even our visual perception. The presence of melanopsin as a unique molecular signature of ipRGCs has allowed for the development of a vast array of molecular and genetic tools to study ipRGC circuits. Given the emerging complexity of this system, this review will provide an overview of the genetic tools and methods used to study ipRGCs, how these tools have been used to dissect their role in a variety of visual circuits and behaviors in mice, and identify important directions for future study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcos L Aranda
- Department of Neurobiology, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
| | - Tiffany M Schmidt
- Department of Neurobiology, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA.
- Department of Ophthalmology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA.
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Orlowska-Feuer P, Smyk MK, Alwani A, Lewandowski MH. Neuronal Responses to Short Wavelength Light Deficiency in the Rat Subcortical Visual System. Front Neurosci 2021; 14:615181. [PMID: 33488355 PMCID: PMC7815651 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2020.615181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2020] [Accepted: 12/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The amount and spectral composition of light changes considerably during the day, with dawn and dusk being the most crucial moments when light is within the mesopic range and short wavelength enriched. It was recently shown that animals use both cues to adjust their internal circadian clock, thereby their behavior and physiology, with the solar cycle. The role of blue light in circadian processes and neuronal responses is well established, however, an unanswered question remains: how do changes in the spectral composition of light (short wavelengths blocking) influence neuronal activity? In this study we addressed this question by performing electrophysiological recordings in image (dorsal lateral geniculate nucleus; dLGN) and non-image (the olivary pretectal nucleus; OPN, the suprachiasmatic nucleus; SCN) visual structures to determine neuronal responses to spectrally varied light stimuli. We found that removing short-wavelength from the polychromatic light (cut off at 525 nm) attenuates the most transient ON and sustained cells in the dLGN and OPN, respectively. Moreover, we compared the ability of different types of sustained OPN neurons (either changing or not their response profile to filtered polychromatic light) to irradiance coding, and show that both groups achieve it with equal efficacy. On the other hand, even very dim monochromatic UV light (360 nm; log 9.95 photons/cm2/s) evokes neuronal responses in the dLGN and SCN. To our knowledge, this is the first electrophysiological experiment supporting previous behavioral findings showing visual and circadian functions disruptions under short wavelength blocking environment. The current results confirm that neuronal activity in response to polychromatic light in retinorecipient structures is affected by removing short wavelengths, however, with type and structure – specific action. Moreover, they show that rats are sensitive to even very dim UV light.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrycja Orlowska-Feuer
- Malopolska Centre of Biotechnology (MCB), Jagiellonian University in Kraków, Kraków, Poland.,Department of Neurophysiology and Chronobiology, Jagiellonian University in Kraków, Kraków, Poland
| | - Magdalena Kinga Smyk
- Malopolska Centre of Biotechnology (MCB), Jagiellonian University in Kraków, Kraków, Poland.,Department of Neurophysiology and Chronobiology, Jagiellonian University in Kraków, Kraków, Poland
| | - Anna Alwani
- Department of Neurophysiology and Chronobiology, Jagiellonian University in Kraków, Kraków, Poland
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Harrison KR, Chervenak AP, Resnick SM, Reifler AN, Wong KY. Amacrine Cells Forming Gap Junctions With Intrinsically Photosensitive Retinal Ganglion Cells: ipRGC Types, Neuromodulator Contents, and Connexin Isoform. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2021; 62:10. [PMID: 33410914 PMCID: PMC7804497 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.62.1.10] [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: 09/14/2020] [Accepted: 11/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs) signal not only centrally to non-image-forming visual centers of the brain but also intraretinally to amacrine interneurons through gap junction electrical coupling, potentially modulating image-forming retinal processing. We aimed to determine (1) which ipRGC types couple with amacrine cells, (2) the neuromodulator contents of ipRGC-coupled amacrine cells, and (3) whether connexin36 (Cx36) contributes to ipRGC-amacrine coupling. Methods Gap junction-permeable Neurobiotin tracer was injected into green fluorescent protein (GFP)-labeled ipRGCs in Opn4Cre/+; Z/EG mice to stain coupled amacrine cells, and immunohistochemistry was performed to reveal the neuromodulator contents of the Neurobiotin-stained amacrine cells. We also created Opn4Cre/+; Cx36flox/flox; Z/EG mice to knock out Cx36 in GFP-labeled ipRGCs and looked for changes in the number of ipRGC-coupled amacrine cells. Results Seventy-three percent of ipRGCs, including all six types (M1-M6), were tracer-coupled with amacrine somas 5.7 to 16.5 µm in diameter but not with ganglion cells. Ninety-two percent of the ipRGC-coupled somas were in the ganglion cell layer and the rest in the inner nuclear layer. Some ipRGC-coupled amacrine cells were found to accumulate serotonin or to contain nitric oxide synthase or neuropeptide Y. Knocking out Cx36 in M2 and M4 dramatically reduced the number of coupled somas. Conclusions Heterologous gap junction coupling with amacrine cells is widespread across mouse ipRGC types. ipRGC-coupled amacrine cells probably comprise multiple morphologic types and use multiple neuromodulators, suggesting that gap junctional ipRGC-to-amacrine signaling likely exerts diverse modulatory effects on retinal physiology. ipRGC-amacrine coupling is mediated partly, but not solely, by Cx36.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krystal R. Harrison
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, & Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States
| | - Andrew P. Chervenak
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States
| | - Sarah M. Resnick
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States
| | - Aaron N. Reifler
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States
| | - Kwoon Y. Wong
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, & Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States
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