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Johnson SM, Johnson SM, Watters JJ, Baker TL. Endomorphin-2 (Endo2) and substance P (SubP) co-application attenuates SubP-induced excitation and alters frequency plasticity in neonatal rat in vitro preparations. Respir Physiol Neurobiol 2024; 331:104351. [PMID: 39303801 DOI: 10.1016/j.resp.2024.104351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2024] [Revised: 09/12/2024] [Accepted: 09/15/2024] [Indexed: 09/22/2024]
Abstract
Substance P (SubP) and endomorphin-2 (Endo2) are co-localized presynaptically in vesicles of neurons adjacent to inspiratory rhythm-generating pre-Botzinger Complex (preBotC) neurons but the effects of co-released SubP and Endo2 on respiratory motor control are not known. To address this question, SubP alone or a combination of SubP and Endo2 (SubP/Endo2) were bath-applied in a sustained (15-min) or intermittent (5-min application, 5-min washout, x3) pattern at 10-100 nM to neonatal rat brainstem-spinal cord preparations. During neuropeptide application, SubP/Endo2 co-applications generally attenuated SubP-induced increases in burst frequency and decreases in burst amplitude. With respect to frequency plasticity (long-lasting increase in burst frequency 60 min post-neuropeptide application), SubP-induced frequency plasticity was increased with sustained SubP/Endo2 co-applications at 20 and 100 nM. Intermittent SubP/Endo2 co-applications tended to decrease the level of frequency plasticity induced by intermittent SubP alone applications. SubP/Endo2 co-applications revealed potentially new functions for neurokinin-1 (NK1R) and mu-opioid (MOR) receptors on respiratory rhythm-generating medullary neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen M Johnson
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States.
| | - Sarah M Johnson
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States
| | - Jyoti J Watters
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States
| | - Tracy L Baker
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States
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2
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Furdui A, da Silveira Scarpellini C, Montandon G. Anatomical distribution of µ-opioid receptors, neurokinin-1 receptors, and vesicular glutamate transporter 2 in the mouse brainstem respiratory network. J Neurophysiol 2024; 132:108-129. [PMID: 38748514 DOI: 10.1152/jn.00478.2023] [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: 12/21/2023] [Revised: 05/08/2024] [Accepted: 05/12/2024] [Indexed: 07/03/2024] Open
Abstract
µ-Opioid receptors (MORs) are responsible for mediating both the analgesic and respiratory effects of opioid drugs. By binding to MORs in brainstem regions involved in controlling breathing, opioids produce respiratory depressive effects characterized by slow and shallow breathing, with potential cardiorespiratory arrest and death during overdose. To better understand the mechanisms underlying opioid-induced respiratory depression, thorough knowledge of the regions and cellular subpopulations that may be vulnerable to modulation by opioid drugs is needed. Using in situ hybridization, we determined the distribution and coexpression of Oprm1 (gene encoding MORs) mRNA with glutamatergic (Vglut2) and neurokinin-1 receptor (Tacr1) mRNA in medullary and pontine regions involved in breathing control and modulation. We found that >50% of cells expressed Oprm1 mRNA in the preBötzinger complex (preBötC), nucleus tractus solitarius (NTS), nucleus ambiguus (NA), postinspiratory complex (PiCo), locus coeruleus (LC), Kölliker-Fuse nucleus (KF), and the lateral and medial parabrachial nuclei (LBPN and MPBN, respectively). Among Tacr1 mRNA-expressing cells, >50% coexpressed Oprm1 mRNA in the preBötC, NTS, NA, Bötzinger complex (BötC), PiCo, LC, raphe magnus nucleus, KF, LPBN, and MPBN, whereas among Vglut2 mRNA-expressing cells, >50% coexpressed Oprm1 mRNA in the preBötC, NTS, NA, BötC, PiCo, LC, KF, LPBN, and MPBN. Taken together, our study provides a comprehensive map of the distribution and coexpression of Oprm1, Tacr1, and Vglut2 mRNA in brainstem regions that control and modulate breathing and identifies Tacr1 and Vglut2 mRNA-expressing cells as subpopulations with potential vulnerability to modulation by opioid drugs.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Opioid drugs can cause serious respiratory side-effects by binding to µ-opioid receptors (MORs) in brainstem regions that control breathing. To better understand the regions and their cellular subpopulations that may be vulnerable to modulation by opioids, we provide a comprehensive map of Oprm1 (gene encoding MORs) mRNA expression throughout brainstem regions that control and modulate breathing. Notably, we identify glutamatergic and neurokinin-1 receptor-expressing cells as potentially vulnerable to modulation by opioid drugs and worthy of further investigation using targeted approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreea Furdui
- Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Institute of Medical Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Gaspard Montandon
- Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Institute of Medical Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Division of Respirology, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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3
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Moreira TS, Burgraff NJ, Shimoda LA, Takakura AC, Ramirez JM. Cross-journal Call for Papers on "Opioids and Respiratory Depression". Am J Physiol Lung Cell Mol Physiol 2024; 326:L808-L811. [PMID: 38771125 DOI: 10.1152/ajplung.00148.2024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Thiago S Moreira
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Instituto de Ciencias Biomedicas, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Nicholas J Burgraff
- Center for Integrative Brain Research, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, Washington, United States
| | - Larissa A Shimoda
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States
| | - Ana C Takakura
- Department of Pharmacology, Instituto de Ciencias Biomedicas, Universidade de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Jan-Marino Ramirez
- Center for Integrative Brain Research, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, Washington, United States
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States
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4
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Johnson SM, Gumnit MG, Johnson SM, Baker TL, Watters JJ. Disinhibition does not play a role in endomorphin-2-induced changes in inspiratory motoneuron output produced by in vitro neonatal rat preparations. Respir Physiol Neurobiol 2024; 320:104186. [PMID: 37944625 PMCID: PMC10843717 DOI: 10.1016/j.resp.2023.104186] [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: 08/09/2023] [Revised: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/04/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
Low level activation of mu-opioid receptors (MORs) in neonatal rat brainstem-spinal cord preparations increases inspiratory burst amplitude recorded on cervical spinal roots. We tested whether: (1) MOR activation with an endogenous ligand, such as endomorphin-2, increases inspiratory burst amplitude, (2) disinhibition of GABAergic or glycinergic inhibitory synaptic transmission is involved, and (3) inflammation alters endomorphin-2 effects. Using neonatal rat (P0-P3) brainstem-spinal cord preparations, bath-applied endomorphin-2 (10-200 nM) increased inspiratory burst amplitude and decreased burst frequency. Blockade of GABAA receptors (picrotoxin), glycine receptors (strychnine), or both (picrotoxin and strychnine) did not abolish endomorphin-2-induced effects. In preparations isolated from neonatal rats injected 3 h previously with lipopolysaccharide (LPS, 0.1 mg/kg), endomorphin-2 continued to decrease burst frequency but abolished the burst amplitude increase. Collectively, these data indicate that disinhibition of inhibitory synaptic transmission is unlikely to play a role in endomorphin-2-induced changes in inspiratory motor output, and that different mechanisms underlie the endomorphin-2-induced increases in inspiratory burst amplitude and decreases in burst frequency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen M Johnson
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA.
| | - Maia G Gumnit
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Sarah M Johnson
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Tracy L Baker
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Jyoti J Watters
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
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5
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Gourévitch B, Pitts T, Iceman K, Reed M, Cai J, Chu T, Zeng W, Morgado-Valle C, Mellen N. Synchronization of inspiratory burst onset along the ventral respiratory column in the neonate mouse is mediated by electrotonic coupling. BMC Biol 2023; 21:83. [PMID: 37061721 PMCID: PMC10105963 DOI: 10.1186/s12915-023-01575-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2022] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 04/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Breathing is a singularly robust behavior, yet this motor pattern is continuously modulated at slow and fast timescales to maintain blood-gas homeostasis, while intercalating orofacial behaviors. This functional multiplexing goes beyond the rhythmogenic function that is typically ascribed to medullary respiration-modulated networks and may explain lack of progress in identifying the mechanism and constituents of the respiratory rhythm generator. By recording optically along the ventral respiratory column in medulla, we found convergent evidence that rhythmogenic function is distributed over a dispersed and heterogeneous network that is synchronized by electrotonic coupling across a neuronal syncytium. First, high-speed recordings revealed that inspiratory onset occurred synchronously along the column and did not emanate from a rhythmogenic core. Second, following synaptic isolation, synchronized stationary rhythmic activity was detected along the column. This activity was attenuated following gap junction blockade and was silenced by tetrodotoxin. The layering of syncytial and synaptic coupling complicates identification of rhythmogenic mechanism, while enabling functional multiplexing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Boris Gourévitch
- Unité de Génétique Et Physiologie de L'Audition, INSERM, Institut Pasteur, Sorbonne Université, 75015, Paris, France
| | - Teresa Pitts
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Kimberly Iceman
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Mitchell Reed
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Jun Cai
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Tianci Chu
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Wenxin Zeng
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Consuelo Morgado-Valle
- Instituto de Investigaciones Cerebrales, Universidad Veracruzana, Xalapa, Veracruz, México
| | - Nicholas Mellen
- Department of Neurology, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA.
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6
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Bateman JT, Saunders SE, Levitt ES. Understanding and countering opioid-induced respiratory depression. Br J Pharmacol 2023; 180:813-828. [PMID: 34089181 PMCID: PMC8997313 DOI: 10.1111/bph.15580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2020] [Revised: 05/06/2021] [Accepted: 05/23/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Respiratory depression is the proximal cause of death in opioid overdose, yet the mechanisms underlying this potentially fatal outcome are not well understood. The goal of this review is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the pharmacological mechanisms of opioid-induced respiratory depression, which could lead to improved therapeutic options to counter opioid overdose, as well as other detrimental effects of opioids on breathing. The development of tolerance in the respiratory system is also discussed, as are differences in the degree of respiratory depression caused by various opioid agonists. Finally, potential future therapeutic agents aimed at reversing or avoiding opioid-induced respiratory depression through non-opioid receptor targets are in development and could provide certain advantages over naloxone. By providing an overview of mechanisms and effects of opioids in the respiratory network, this review will benefit future research on countering opioid-induced respiratory depression. LINKED ARTICLES: This article is part of a themed issue on Advances in Opioid Pharmacology at the Time of the Opioid Epidemic. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v180.7/issuetoc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordan T Bateman
- Department of Pharmacology & Therapeutics, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Sandy E Saunders
- Department of Pharmacology & Therapeutics, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Erica S Levitt
- Department of Pharmacology & Therapeutics, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
- Breathing Research and Therapeutics Center, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
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7
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Saunders SE, Baekey DM, Levitt ES. Fentanyl effects on respiratory neuron activity in the dorsolateral pons. J Neurophysiol 2022; 128:1117-1132. [PMID: 36197016 PMCID: PMC9621704 DOI: 10.1152/jn.00113.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Revised: 09/09/2022] [Accepted: 10/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Opioids suppress breathing through actions in the brainstem, including respiratory-related areas of the dorsolateral pons, which contain multiple phenotypes of respiratory patterned neurons. The discharge identity of dorsolateral pontine neurons that are impacted by opioids is unknown. To address this, single neuronal units were recorded in the dorsolateral pons of arterially perfused in situ rat preparations that were perfused with an apneic concentration of the opioid agonist fentanyl, followed by the opioid antagonist naloxone (NLX). Dorsolateral pontine neurons were categorized based on respiratory-associated discharge patterns, which were differentially affected by fentanyl. Inspiratory neurons and a subset of inspiratory/expiratory phase-spanning neurons were either silenced or had reduced firing frequency during fentanyl-induced apnea, which was reversed upon administration of naloxone. In contrast, the majority of expiratory neurons continued to fire tonically during fentanyl-induced apnea, albeit with reduced firing frequency. In addition, pontine late-inspiratory and postinspiratory neuronal activity were absent from apneustic-like breaths during the transition to fentanyl-induced apnea and the naloxone-mediated transition to recovery. Thus, opioid-induced deficits in respiratory patterning may occur due to reduced activity of pontine inspiratory neurons, whereas apnea occurs with loss of all phasic pontine activity and sustained tonic expiratory neuron activity.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Opioids can suppress breathing via actions throughout the brainstem, including the dorsolateral pons. The respiratory phenotype of dorsolateral pontine neurons inhibited by opioids is unknown. Here, we describe the effect of the highly potent opioid fentanyl on the firing activity of these dorsolateral pontine neurons. Inspiratory neurons were largely silenced by fentanyl, whereas expiratory neurons were not. We provide a framework whereby this differential sensitivity to fentanyl can contribute to respiratory pattern deficits and apnea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandy E Saunders
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
- Center for Respiratory Research and Rehabilitation, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
| | - David M Baekey
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
- Center for Respiratory Research and Rehabilitation, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
| | - Erica S Levitt
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
- Center for Respiratory Research and Rehabilitation, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
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8
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Jørgensen AB, Rasmussen CM, Rekling JC. µ-Opioid Receptor Activation Reduces Glutamate Release in the PreBötzinger Complex in Organotypic Slice Cultures. J Neurosci 2022; 42:8066-8077. [PMID: 36096669 PMCID: PMC9636991 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.1369-22.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2022] [Revised: 08/22/2022] [Accepted: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The inspiratory rhythm generator, located in the brainstem preBötzinger complex (preBötC), is dependent on glutamatergic signaling and is affected profoundly by opioids. Here, we used organotypic slice cultures of the newborn mouse brainstem of either sex in combination with genetically encoded sensors for Ca2+, glutamate, and GABA to visualize Ca2+, glutamatergic and GABAergic signaling during spontaneous rhythm and in the presence of DAMGO. During spontaneous rhythm, the glutamate sensor SF-iGluSnFR.A184S revealed punctate synapse-like fluorescent signals along dendrites and somas in the preBötC with decay times that were prolonged by the glutamate uptake blocker (TFB-TBOA). The GABA sensor iGABASnFR showed a more diffuse fluorescent signal during spontaneous rhythm. Rhythmic Ca2+- and glutamate transients had an inverse relationship between the spontaneous burst frequency and the burst amplitude of the Ca2+ and glutamate signals. A similar inverse relationship was observed when bath applied DAMGO reduced spontaneous burst frequency and increased the burst amplitude of Ca2+, glutamate, and GABA transient signals. However, a hypoxic challenge reduced both burst frequency and Ca2+ transient amplitude. Using a cocktail that blocked glutamatergic, GABAergic, and glycinergic transmission to indirectly measure the release of glutamate/GABA in response to an electrical stimulus, we found that DAMGO reduces the release of glutamate in the preBötC but has no effect on GABA release. This suggest that the opioid mediated slowing of respiratory rhythm involves presynaptic reduction of glutamate release, which would impact the ability of the network to engage in recurrent excitation, and may result in the opioid-induced slowing of inspiratory rhythm.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Opioids slow down breathing rhythm by affecting neurons in the preBötzinger complex (preBötC) and other brainstem regions. Here, we used cultured slices of the preBötC to better understand this effect by optically recording Ca2+, glutamate, and GABA transients during preBötC activity. Spontaneous rhythm showed an inverse relationship between burst frequency and burst amplitude in the Ca2+ and glutamate signals. Application of the opioid DAMGO slowed the rhythm, with a concomitant increase in Ca2+, glutamate, and GABA signals. When rhythm was blocked pharmacologically, DAMGO reduced the presynaptic release of glutamate, but not GABA. These data suggest the mechanism of action of opioids involves presynaptic reduction of glutamate release, which may play an important role in the opioid-induced slowing of inspiratory rhythm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anders B Jørgensen
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen N DK-2200, Denmark
| | | | - Jens C Rekling
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen N DK-2200, Denmark
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9
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Gumnit MG, Watters JJ, Baker TL, Johnson SM, Johnson SM. Mu-opioid receptor-dependent transformation of respiratory motor pattern in neonates in vitro. Front Physiol 2022; 13:921466. [PMID: 35936900 PMCID: PMC9353126 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.921466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2022] [Accepted: 06/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Endogenous opioid peptides activating mu-opioid receptors (MORs) are part of an intricate neuromodulatory system that coordinates and optimizes respiratory motor output to maintain blood-gas homeostasis. MOR activation is typically associated with respiratory depression but also has excitatory effects on breathing and respiratory neurons. We hypothesized that low level MOR activation induces excitatory effects on the respiratory motor pattern. Thus, low concentrations of an MOR agonist drug (DAMGO, 10–200 nM) were bath-applied to neonatal rat brainstem-spinal cord preparations while recording inspiratory-related motor output on cervical spinal roots (C4-C5). Bath-applied DAMGO (50–200 nM) increased inspiratory motor burst amplitude by 40–60% during (and shortly following) drug application with decreased burst frequency and minute activity. Reciprocal changes in inspiratory burst amplitude and frequency were balanced such that 20 min after DAMGO (50–200 nM) application, minute activity was unaltered compared to pre-DAMGO levels. The DAMGO-induced inspiratory burst amplitude increase did not require crossed cervical spinal pathways, was expressed on thoracic ventral spinal roots (T4-T8) and remained unaltered by riluzole pretreatment (blocks persistent sodium currents associated with gasping). Split-bath experiments showed that the inspiratory burst amplitude increase was induced only when DAMGO was bath-applied to the brainstem and not the spinal cord. Thus, MOR activation in neonates induces a respiratory burst amplitude increase via brainstem-specific mechanisms. The burst amplitude increase counteracts the expected MOR-dependent frequency depression and may represent a new mechanism by which MOR activation influences respiratory motor output.
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10
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Pitts T, Huff A, Reed M, Iceman K, Mellen N. Evidence of intermediate reticular formation involvement in swallow pattern generation, recorded optically in the neonate rat sagittally sectioned hindbrain. J Neurophysiol 2021; 125:993-1005. [PMID: 33566745 DOI: 10.1152/jn.00623.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Swallow is a primitive behavior regulated by medullary networks, responsible for movement of food/liquid from the oral cavity to the esophagus. To investigate how functionally heterogeneous networks along the medullary intermediate reticular formation (IRt) and ventral respiratory column (VRC) control swallow, we electrically stimulated the nucleus tractus solitarius to induce fictive swallow between inspiratory bursts, with concurrent optical recordings using a synthetic Ca2+ indicator in the neonatal sagittally sectioned rat hindbrain (SSRH) preparation. Simultaneous recordings from hypoglossal nerve rootlet (XIIn) and ventral cervical spinal root C1-C2 enabled identification of the system-level correlates of 1) swallow (identified as activation of the XIIn but not the cervical root) and 2) Breuer-Hering expiratory reflex (BHE; lengthened expiration in response to stimuli during expiration). Optical recording revealed reconfiguration of respiration-modulated networks in the ventrolateral medulla during swallow and the BHE reflex. Recordings identified novel spatially compact networks in the IRt near the facial nucleus (VIIn) that were active during fictive swallow, suggesting that the swallow network is not restricted to the caudal medulla. These findings also establish the utility of using this in vitro preparation to investigate how functionally heterogeneous medullary networks interact and reconfigure to enable a repertoire of orofacial behaviors.NEW & NOTEWORTHY For the first time, medullary networks that control breathing and swallow are recorded optically. Episodic swallows are induced via electrical stimulation along the dorsal medulla, in and near the NTS, during spontaneously occurring fictive respiration. These findings establish that networks regulating both orofacial behaviors and breathing are accessible for optical recording at the surface of the sagittally sectioned rodent hindbrain preparation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teresa Pitts
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Kentucky Spinal Cord Injury Research Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky
| | - Alyssa Huff
- Center for Integrative Brain Research, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, Washington
| | - Mitchell Reed
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Kentucky Spinal Cord Injury Research Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky
| | - Kimberly Iceman
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Kentucky Spinal Cord Injury Research Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky
| | - Nicholas Mellen
- Department of Neurology, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky
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11
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Juárez-Vidales JDJ, Pérez-Ortega J, Lorea-Hernández JJ, Méndez-Salcido F, Peña-Ortega F. Configuration and dynamics of dominant inspiratory multineuronal activity patterns during eupnea and gasping generation in vitro. J Neurophysiol 2021; 125:1289-1306. [PMID: 33502956 DOI: 10.1152/jn.00563.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The pre-Bötzinger complex (preBötC), located within the ventral respiratory column, produces inspiratory bursts in varying degrees of synchronization/amplitude. This wide range of population burst patterns reflects the flexibility of the preBötC neurons, which is expressed in variations in the onset/offset times of their activations and their activity during the population bursts, with respiratory neurons exhibiting a large cycle-to-cycle timing jitter both at the population activity onset and at the population activity peak, suggesting that respiratory neurons are stochastically activated before and during the inspiratory bursts. However, it is still unknown whether this stochasticity is maintained while evaluating the coactivity of respiratory neuronal ensembles. Moreover, the preBötC topology also remains unknown. In this study, by simultaneously recording tens of preBötC neurons and using coactivation analysis during the inspiratory periods, we found that the preBötC has a scale-free configuration (mixture of not many highly connected nodes, hubs, with abundant poorly connected elements) exhibiting the rich-club phenomenon (hubs more likely interconnected with each other). PreBötC neurons also produce multineuronal activity patterns (MAPs) that are highly stable and change during the hypoxia-induced reconfiguration. Moreover, preBötC contains a coactivating core network shared by all its MAPs. Finally, we found a distinctive pattern of sequential coactivation of core network neurons at the beginning of the inspiratory periods, indicating that, when evaluated at the multicellular level, the coactivation of respiratory neurons seems not to be stochastic.NEW & NOTEWORTHY By means of multielectrode recordings of preBötC neurons, we evaluated their configuration in normoxia and hypoxia, finding that the preBötC exhibits a scale-free configuration with a rich-club phenomenon. preBötC neurons produce multineuronal activity patterns that are highly stable but change during hypoxia. The preBötC contains a coactivating core network that exhibit a distinctive pattern of coactivation at the beginning of inspirations. These results reveal some network basis of inspiratory rhythm generation and its reconfiguration during hypoxia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josué de Jesús Juárez-Vidales
- Departamento de Neurobiología del Desarrollo y Neurofisiología, Instituto de Neurobiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Queretaro, Mexico
| | - Jesús Pérez-Ortega
- Departamento de Neurobiología del Desarrollo y Neurofisiología, Instituto de Neurobiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Queretaro, Mexico
| | - Jonathan Julio Lorea-Hernández
- Departamento de Neurobiología del Desarrollo y Neurofisiología, Instituto de Neurobiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Queretaro, Mexico
| | - Felipe Méndez-Salcido
- Departamento de Neurobiología del Desarrollo y Neurofisiología, Instituto de Neurobiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Queretaro, Mexico
| | - Fernando Peña-Ortega
- Departamento de Neurobiología del Desarrollo y Neurofisiología, Instituto de Neurobiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Queretaro, Mexico
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12
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Beyeler SA, Hodges MR, Huxtable AG. Impact of inflammation on developing respiratory control networks: rhythm generation, chemoreception and plasticity. Respir Physiol Neurobiol 2020; 274:103357. [PMID: 31899353 DOI: 10.1016/j.resp.2019.103357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2019] [Revised: 11/17/2019] [Accepted: 12/02/2019] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
The respiratory control network in the central nervous system undergoes critical developmental events early in life to ensure adequate breathing at birth. There are at least three "critical windows" in development of respiratory control networks: 1) in utero, 2) newborn (postnatal day 0-4 in rodents), and 3) neonatal (P10-13 in rodents, 2-4 months in humans). During these critical windows, developmental processes required for normal maturation of the respiratory control network occur, thereby increasing vulnerability of the network to insults, such as inflammation. Early life inflammation (induced by LPS, chronic intermittent hypoxia, sustained hypoxia, or neonatal maternal separation) acutely impairs respiratory rhythm generation, chemoreception and increases neonatal risk of mortality. These early life impairments are also greater in young males, suggesting sex-specific impairments in respiratory control. Further, neonatal inflammation has a lasting impact on respiratory control by impairing adult respiratory plasticity. This review focuses on how inflammation alters respiratory rhythm generation, chemoreception and plasticity during each of the three critical windows. We also highlight the need for additional mechanistic studies and increased investigation into how glia (such as microglia and astrocytes) play a role in impaired respiratory control after inflammation. Understanding how inflammation during critical windows of development disrupt respiratory control networks is essential for developing better treatments for vulnerable neonates and preventing adult ventilatory control disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah A Beyeler
- Department of Human Physiology, University of Oregon, Eugene, OR, 97403, United States
| | - Matthew R Hodges
- Department of Physiology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, United States
| | - Adrianne G Huxtable
- Department of Human Physiology, University of Oregon, Eugene, OR, 97403, United States.
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13
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Baertsch NA, Ramirez JM. Insights into the dynamic control of breathing revealed through cell-type-specific responses to substance P. eLife 2019; 8:51350. [PMID: 31804180 PMCID: PMC6957314 DOI: 10.7554/elife.51350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2019] [Accepted: 12/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The rhythm generating network for breathing must continuously adjust to changing metabolic and behavioral demands. Here, we examined network-based mechanisms in the mouse preBötzinger complex using substance P, a potent excitatory modulator of breathing frequency and stability, as a tool to dissect network properties that underlie dynamic breathing. We find that substance P does not alter the balance of excitation and inhibition during breaths or the duration of the resulting refractory period. Instead, mechanisms of recurrent excitation between breaths are enhanced such that the rate that excitation percolates through the network is increased. We propose a conceptual framework in which three distinct phases of inspiration, the burst phase, refractory phase, and percolation phase, can be differentially modulated to control breathing dynamics and stability. Unraveling mechanisms that support this dynamic control may improve our understanding of nervous system disorders that destabilize breathing, many of which involve changes in brainstem neuromodulatory systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathan A Baertsch
- Center for Integrative Brain Research, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, United States
| | - Jan-Marino Ramirez
- Center for Integrative Brain Research, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, United States.,Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, United States
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14
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Abstract
Breathing is a vital rhythmic behavior that originates from neural networks within the brainstem. It is hypothesized that the breathing rhythm is generated by spatially distinct networks localized to discrete kernels or compartments. Here, we provide evidence that the functional boundaries of these compartments expand and contract dynamically based on behavioral or physiological demands. The ability of these rhythmic networks to change in size may allow the breathing rhythm to be very reliable, yet flexible enough to accommodate the large repertoire of mammalian behaviors that must be integrated with breathing. The ability of neuronal networks to reconfigure is a key property underlying behavioral flexibility. Networks with recurrent topology are particularly prone to reconfiguration through changes in synaptic and intrinsic properties. Here, we explore spatial reconfiguration in the reticular networks of the medulla that generate breathing. Combined results from in vitro and in vivo approaches demonstrate that the network architecture underlying generation of the inspiratory phase of breathing is not static but can be spatially redistributed by shifts in the balance of excitatory and inhibitory network influences. These shifts in excitation/inhibition allow the size of the active network to expand and contract along a rostrocaudal medullary column during behavioral or metabolic challenges to breathing, such as changes in sensory feedback, sighing, and gasping. We postulate that the ability of this rhythm-generating network to spatially reconfigure contributes to the remarkable robustness and flexibility of breathing.
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Peña-Ortega F. Neural Network Reconfigurations: Changes of the Respiratory Network by Hypoxia as an Example. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2018; 1015:217-237. [PMID: 29080029 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-62817-2_12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Neural networks, including the respiratory network, can undergo a reconfiguration process by just changing the number, the connectivity or the activity of their elements. Those elements can be either brain regions or neurons, which constitute the building blocks of macrocircuits and microcircuits, respectively. The reconfiguration processes can also involve changes in the number of connections and/or the strength between the elements of the network. These changes allow neural networks to acquire different topologies to perform a variety of functions or change their responses as a consequence of physiological or pathological conditions. Thus, neural networks are not hardwired entities, but they constitute flexible circuits that can be constantly reconfigured in response to a variety of stimuli. Here, we are going to review several examples of these processes with special emphasis on the reconfiguration of the respiratory rhythm generator in response to different patterns of hypoxia, which can lead to changes in respiratory patterns or lasting changes in frequency and/or amplitude.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernando Peña-Ortega
- Departamento de Neurobiología del Desarrollo y Neurofisiología, Instituto de Neurobiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, UNAM-Campus Juriquilla, Boulevard Juriquilla 3001, Querétaro, 76230, Mexico.
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16
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Abstract
Breathing is vital for survival but also interesting from the perspective of rhythm generation. This rhythmic behavior is generated within the brainstem and is thought to emerge through the interaction between independent oscillatory neuronal networks. In mammals, breathing is composed of three phases - inspiration, post-inspiration, and active expiration - and this article discusses the concept that each phase is generated by anatomically distinct rhythm-generating networks: the preBötzinger complex (preBötC), the post-inspiratory complex (PiCo), and the lateral parafacial nucleus (pF L), respectively. The preBötC was first discovered 25 years ago and was shown to be both necessary and sufficient for the generation of inspiration. More recently, networks have been described that are responsible for post-inspiration and active expiration. Here, we attempt to collate the current knowledge and hypotheses regarding how respiratory rhythms are generated, the role that inhibition plays, and the interactions between the medullary networks. Our considerations may have implications for rhythm generation in general.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatiana M. Anderson
- Center for Integrative Brain Research, Seattle Children’s Research Institute, Seattle, WA, USA
- Graduate Program for Neuroscience, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Jan-Marino Ramirez
- Center for Integrative Brain Research, Seattle Children’s Research Institute, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Neurological Surgery and Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA
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17
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Respiratory Rhythm Generation: The Whole Is Greater Than the Sum of the Parts. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2017; 1015:147-161. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-62817-2_9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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18
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Pansani AP, Xavier CH, de Castro CH, Scorza FA, Colugnati DB. Could the retrotrapezoid nucleus neurons tell us something about SUDEP? Epilepsy Behav 2016; 61:86-87. [PMID: 27337159 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2016.05.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2016] [Accepted: 05/24/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Aline P Pansani
- Laboratório Integrado de Fisiopatologia Cardiovascular e Neurológica, Departamento de Ciências Fisiológicas, ICB, Universidade Federal de Goiás, GO, Brazil
| | - Carlos H Xavier
- Laboratório de Fisiologia e Terapêutica Cardiovascular, Departamento de Ciências Fisiológicas, ICB, Universidade Federal de Goiás, GO, Brazil
| | - Carlos Henrique de Castro
- Laboratório Integrado de Fisiopatologia Cardiovascular e Neurológica, Departamento de Ciências Fisiológicas, ICB, Universidade Federal de Goiás, GO, Brazil
| | - Fulvio A Scorza
- Disciplina de Neurociência, Universidade Federal de São Paulo/Escola Paulista de Medicina (UNIFESP/EPM), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Diego B Colugnati
- Laboratório Integrado de Fisiopatologia Cardiovascular e Neurológica, Departamento de Ciências Fisiológicas, ICB, Universidade Federal de Goiás, GO, Brazil
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Gourévitch B, Mellen N. The preBötzinger complex as a hub for network activity along the ventral respiratory column in the neonate rat. Neuroimage 2014; 98:460-74. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroimage.2014.04.073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2013] [Revised: 04/10/2014] [Accepted: 04/29/2014] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
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20
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Wang X, Hayes JA, Revill AL, Song H, Kottick A, Vann NC, LaMar MD, Picardo MCD, Akins VT, Funk GD, Del Negro CA. Laser ablation of Dbx1 neurons in the pre-Bötzinger complex stops inspiratory rhythm and impairs output in neonatal mice. eLife 2014; 3:e03427. [PMID: 25027440 PMCID: PMC4129438 DOI: 10.7554/elife.03427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
To understand the neural origins of rhythmic behavior one must characterize the central pattern generator circuit and quantify the population size needed to sustain functionality. Breathing-related interneurons of the brainstem pre-Bötzinger complex (preBötC) that putatively comprise the core respiratory rhythm generator in mammals are derived from Dbx1-expressing precursors. Here, we show that selective photonic destruction of Dbx1 preBötC neurons in neonatal mouse slices impairs respiratory rhythm but surprisingly also the magnitude of motor output; respiratory hypoglossal nerve discharge decreased and its frequency steadily diminished until rhythm stopped irreversibly after 85±20 (mean ± SEM) cellular ablations, which corresponds to ∼15% of the estimated population. These results demonstrate that a single canonical interneuron class generates respiratory rhythm and contributes in a premotor capacity, whereas these functions are normally attributed to discrete populations. We also establish quantitative cellular parameters that govern network viability, which may have ramifications for respiratory pathology in disease states.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xueying Wang
- Department of Applied Science, The College of William and Mary, Williamsburg, United States
| | - John A Hayes
- Department of Applied Science, The College of William and Mary, Williamsburg, United States
| | - Ann L Revill
- Department of Physiology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada The Women and Children's Health Research Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Hanbing Song
- Department of Applied Science, The College of William and Mary, Williamsburg, United States
| | - Andrew Kottick
- Department of Applied Science, The College of William and Mary, Williamsburg, United States
| | - Nikolas C Vann
- Department of Applied Science, The College of William and Mary, Williamsburg, United States
| | - M Drew LaMar
- Department of Biology, The College of William and Mary, Williamsburg, United States
| | | | - Victoria T Akins
- Department of Applied Science, The College of William and Mary, Williamsburg, United States
| | - Gregory D Funk
- Department of Physiology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada The Women and Children's Health Research Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
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21
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Stuth EAE, Stucke AG, Zuperku EJ. Effects of anesthetics, sedatives, and opioids on ventilatory control. Compr Physiol 2013; 2:2281-367. [PMID: 23720250 DOI: 10.1002/cphy.c100061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
This article provides a comprehensive, up to date summary of the effects of volatile, gaseous, and intravenous anesthetics and opioid agonists on ventilatory control. Emphasis is placed on data from human studies. Further mechanistic insights are provided by in vivo and in vitro data from other mammalian species. The focus is on the effects of clinically relevant agonist concentrations and studies using pharmacological, that is, supraclinical agonist concentrations are de-emphasized or excluded.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eckehard A E Stuth
- Medical College of Wisconsin, Anesthesia Research Service, Zablocki VA Medical Center, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA.
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The rhythmic, transverse medullary slice preparation in respiratory neurobiology: contributions and caveats. Respir Physiol Neurobiol 2013; 186:236-53. [PMID: 23357617 DOI: 10.1016/j.resp.2013.01.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2012] [Revised: 01/18/2013] [Accepted: 01/21/2013] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Our understanding of the sites and mechanisms underlying rhythmic breathing as well as the neuromodulatory control of respiratory rhythm, pattern, and respiratory motoneuron excitability during perinatal development has advanced significantly over the last 20 years. A major catalyst was the development in 1991 of the rhythmically-active medullary slice preparation, which provided precise mechanical and chemical control over the network as well as enhanced physical and optical access to key brainstem regions. Insights obtained in vitro have informed multiple mechanistic hypotheses. In vivo tests of these hypotheses, performed under conditions of reduced control and precision but more obvious physiological relevance, have clearly established the significance for respiratory neurobiology of the rhythmic slice preparation. We review the contributions of this preparation to current understanding/concepts in respiratory control, and outline the limitations of this approach in the context of studying rhythm and pattern generation, homeostatic control mechanisms and murine models of human genetic disorders that feature prominent breathing disturbances.
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Spinal and pontine relay pathways mediating respiratory rhythm entrainment by limb proprioceptive inputs in the neonatal rat. J Neurosci 2012; 32:11841-53. [PMID: 22915125 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.0360-12.2012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The coordination of locomotion and respiration is widespread among mammals, although the underlying neural mechanisms are still only partially understood. It was previously found in neonatal rat that cyclic electrical stimulation of spinal cervical and lumbar dorsal roots (DRs) can fully entrain (1:1 coupling) spontaneous respiratory activity expressed by the isolated brainstem/spinal cord. Here, we used a variety of preparations to determine the type of spinal sensory inputs responsible for this respiratory rhythm entrainment, and to establish the extent to which limb movement-activated feedback influences the medullary respiratory networks via direct or relayed ascending pathways. During in vivo overground locomotion, respiratory rhythm slowed and became coupled 1:1 with locomotion. In hindlimb-attached semi-isolated preparations, passive flexion-extension movements applied to a single hindlimb led to entrainment of fictive respiratory rhythmicity recorded in phrenic motoneurons, indicating that the recruitment of limb proprioceptive afferents could participate in the locomotor-respiratory coupling. Furthermore, in correspondence with the regionalization of spinal locomotor rhythm-generating circuitry, the stimulation of DRs at different segmental levels in isolated preparations revealed that cervical and lumbosacral proprioceptive inputs are more effective in this entraining influence than thoracic afferent pathways. Finally, blocking spinal synaptic transmission and using a combination of electrophysiology, calcium imaging and specific brainstem lesioning indicated that the ascending entraining signals from the cervical or lumbar limb afferents are transmitted across first-order synapses, probably monosynaptic, in the spinal cord. They are then conveyed to the brainstem respiratory centers via a brainstem pontine relay located in the parabrachial/Kölliker-Fuse nuclear complex.
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24
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Central apnea at complex partial seizure onset. Seizure 2012; 21:555-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2012.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2012] [Revised: 04/02/2012] [Accepted: 04/03/2012] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
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25
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Gariépy JF, Missaghi K, Chartré S, Robert M, Auclair F, Dubuc R. Bilateral connectivity in the brainstem respiratory networks of lampreys. J Comp Neurol 2012; 520:1442-56. [PMID: 22101947 DOI: 10.1002/cne.22804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
This study examines the connectivity in the neural networks controlling respiration in the lampreys, a basal vertebrate. Previous studies have shown that the lamprey paratrigeminal respiratory group (pTRG) plays a crucial role in the generation of respiration. By using a combination of anatomical and physiological techniques, we characterized the bilateral connections between the pTRGs and descending projections to the motoneurons. Tracers were injected in the respiratory motoneuron pools to identify pre-motor respiratory interneurons. Retrogradely labeled cell bodies were found in the pTRG on both sides. Whole-cell recordings of the retrogradely labeled pTRG neurons showed rhythmical excitatory currents in tune with respiratory motoneuron activity. This confirmed that they were related to respiration. Intracellular labeling of individual pTRG neurons revealed axonal branches to the contralateral pTRG and bilateral projections to the respiratory motoneuronal columns. Stimulation of the pTRG induced excitatory postsynaptic potentials in ipsi- and contralateral respiratory motoneurons as well as in contralateral pTRG neurons. A lidocaine HCl (Xylocaine) injection on the midline at the rostrocaudal level of the pTRG diminished the contralateral motoneuronal EPSPs as well as a local injection of 6-cyano-7-nitroquinoxaline-2,3-dione (CNQX) and (2R)-amino-5-phosphonovaleric acid (AP-5) on the recorded respiratory motoneuron. Our data show that neurons in the pTRG send two sets of axonal projections: one to the contralateral pTRG and another to activate respiratory motoneurons on both sides through glutamatergic synapses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean-François Gariépy
- Groupe de Recherche sur le Système Nerveux Central (GRSNC), Département de Physiologie, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada H3T 1J4
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26
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Hayes JA, Wang X, Del Negro CA. Cumulative lesioning of respiratory interneurons disrupts and precludes motor rhythms in vitro. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2012; 109:8286-91. [PMID: 22566628 PMCID: PMC3361386 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1200912109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
How brain functions degenerate in the face of progressive cell loss is an important issue that pertains to neurodegenerative diseases and basic properties of neural networks. We developed an automated system that uses two-photon microscopy to detect rhythmic neurons from calcium activity, and then individually laser ablates the targets while monitoring network function in real time. We applied this system to the mammalian respiratory oscillator located in the pre-Bötzinger Complex (preBötC) of the ventral medulla, which spontaneously generates breathing-related motor activity in vitro. Here, we show that cumulatively deleting preBötC neurons progressively decreases respiratory frequency and the amplitude of motor output. On average, the deletion of 120 ± 45 neurons stopped spontaneous respiratory rhythm, and our data suggest ≈82% of the rhythm-generating neurons remain unlesioned. Cumulative ablations in other medullary respiratory regions did not affect frequency but diminished the amplitude of motor output to a lesser degree. These results suggest that the preBötC can sustain insults that destroy no more than ≈18% of its constituent interneurons, which may have implications for the onset of respiratory pathologies in disease states.
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Affiliation(s)
- John A. Hayes
- Departments of Applied Science and
- Biology, College of William and Mary, Williamsburg, VA 23187-8795
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27
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Mellen NM, Thoby-Brisson M. Respiratory circuits: development, function and models. Curr Opin Neurobiol 2012; 22:676-85. [PMID: 22281058 DOI: 10.1016/j.conb.2012.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2011] [Revised: 01/04/2012] [Accepted: 01/04/2012] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Breathing is a rhythmic motor behavior generated and controlled by hindbrain neuronal networks. Respiratory motor output arises from two distinct, but functionally interacting, rhythmogenic networks: the pre-Bötzinger complex (preBötC) and the retrotrapezoïd nucleus/parafacial respiratory group (RTN/pFRG). This review outlines recent advances in delineating the genetic specification of the neuronal constituents of these two rhythmogenic networks, their respective roles in respiratory function and how they interact to constitute a functional respiratory circuit ensemble. The often lethal consequences of disruption to these networks found in naturally occurring developmental disorders, transgenic animals, and highly specific lesion studies are described. In addition, we discuss how recent computational models enhance our understanding of how respiratory networks generate and regulate respiratory behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas M Mellen
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Louisville, School of Medicine, Louisville, KY 40202-3830, USA
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Isolated in vitro brainstem-spinal cord preparations remain important tools in respiratory neurobiology. Respir Physiol Neurobiol 2011; 180:1-7. [PMID: 22015642 DOI: 10.1016/j.resp.2011.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2011] [Accepted: 10/06/2011] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Isolated in vitro brainstem-spinal cord preparations are used extensively in respiratory neurobiology because the respiratory network in the pons and medulla is intact, monosynaptic descending inputs to spinal motoneurons can be activated, brainstem and spinal cord tissue can be bathed with different solutions, and the responses of cervical, thoracic, and lumbar spinal motoneurons to experimental perturbations can be compared. The caveats and limitations of in vitro brainstem-spinal cord preparations are well-documented. However, isolated brainstem-spinal cords are still valuable experimental preparations that can be used to study neuronal connectivity within the brainstem, development of motor networks with lethal genetic mutations, deleterious effects of pathological drugs and conditions, respiratory spinal motor plasticity, and interactions with other motor behaviors. Our goal is to show how isolated brainstem-spinal cord preparations still have a lot to offer scientifically and experimentally to address questions within and outside the field of respiratory neurobiology.
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Functional anatomical evidence for respiratory rhythmogenic function of endogenous bursters in rat medulla. J Neurosci 2010; 30:8383-92. [PMID: 20573885 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.5510-09.2010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Endogenous burster neurons (EBs) have been found at the level of the facial nucleus (VIIn), and 500 mum caudally, within the pre-Bötzinger complex (preBötC). They have been proposed as either causal to or playing no role in respiratory rhythmogenesis. Little is known about their broader distribution in ventrolateral medulla. Here, a Ca(2+) indicator was used to record respiratory network activity in ventrolateral medulla, and, following synaptic blockade, to identify EBs active at perfusate K(+) concentrations ([K(+)](o)) of 3, 6, and 9 mm. Recordings were made along the respiratory column, extending 300 mum rostrally, and 1100 mum caudally from the caudal pole of VIIn (VIIc), in the in vitro tilted sagittal slab preparation, isolated from neonate male and female Sprague Dawley rats. Activity under matching [K(+)](o) in the intact respiratory network was subsequently investigated. Respiratory neurons (n = 401) formed statistically significant clusters at the VIIc, within the preBötC, and 100 mum caudal to the preBötC. EBs (n = 693) formed statistically significant clusters that overlapped with respiratory clusters at the VIIc and preBötC. EB activity increased significantly as [K(+)](o) was increased, as did neurons that remained coupled following synaptic blockade. The overlap between respiratory and EB clusters in regions of ventrolateral medulla identified as rhythmogenic supports the hypothesis that EBs are constituents of rhythmogenic networks. In addition, the observation of truncated inspiratory bursts and ectopic bursting in respiratory neurons when [K(+)](o) was elevated in the intact network is consistent with a causal role for EBs in respiratory rhythmogenesis.
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Lal A, Oku Y, Hülsmann S, Okada Y, Miwakeichi F, Kawai S, Tamura Y, Ishiguro M. Dual oscillator model of the respiratory neuronal network generating quantal slowing of respiratory rhythm. J Comput Neurosci 2010; 30:225-40. [PMID: 20544264 PMCID: PMC3058346 DOI: 10.1007/s10827-010-0249-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2009] [Revised: 03/10/2010] [Accepted: 05/24/2010] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
We developed a dual oscillator model to facilitate the understanding of dynamic interactions between the parafacial respiratory group (pFRG) and the preBötzinger complex (preBötC) neurons in the respiratory rhythm generation. Both neuronal groups were modeled as groups of 81 interconnected pacemaker neurons; the bursting cell model described by Butera and others [model 1 in Butera et al. (J Neurophysiol 81:382–397, 1999a)] were used to model the pacemaker neurons. We assumed (1) both pFRG and preBötC networks are rhythm generators, (2) preBötC receives excitatory inputs from pFRG, and pFRG receives inhibitory inputs from preBötC, and (3) persistent Na+ current conductance and synaptic current conductances are randomly distributed within each population. Our model could reproduce 1:1 coupling of bursting rhythms between pFRG and preBötC with the characteristic biphasic firing pattern of pFRG neurons, i.e., firings during pre-inspiratory and post-inspiratory phases. Compatible with experimental results, the model predicted the changes in firing pattern of pFRG neurons from biphasic expiratory to monophasic inspiratory, synchronous with preBötC neurons. Quantal slowing, a phenomena of prolonged respiratory period that jumps non-deterministically to integer multiples of the control period, was observed when the excitability of preBötC network decreased while strengths of synaptic connections between the two groups remained unchanged, suggesting that, in contrast to the earlier suggestions (Mellen et al., Neuron 37:821–826, 2003; Wittmeier et al., Proc Natl Acad Sci USA 105(46):18000–18005, 2008), quantal slowing could occur without suppressed or stochastic excitatory synaptic transmission. With a reduced excitability of preBötC network, the breakdown of synchronous bursting of preBötC neurons was predicted by simulation. We suggest that quantal slowing could result from a breakdown of synchronized bursting within the preBötC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amit Lal
- Department of Physiology, Hyogo College of Medicine, Nishinomiya, Hyogo, 663-8501, Japan
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Multiphoton/confocal Ca2+-imaging of inspiratory pre-Bötzinger complex neurons at the rostral or caudal surface of newborn rat brainstem slices. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2010; 669:81-5. [PMID: 20217326 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4419-5692-7_17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/11/2023]
Abstract
Breathing is controled by neural networks of the pre-Bötzinger complex (preBötC). We have previously established that multiphoton/confocal Ca(2+) imaging is a potent tool for studying preBötC functions in transversal newborn rat brainstem slices. Here, we used such imaging to show that only 3 often dispersedly located preBötC neurons are typically inspiratory active per transversal imaging plane in slices with rostrally-exposed preBötC contrary to rhythmic optical activity in 11 densely aggregated neurons in slices with the preBötC at the caudal margin. In both slice types, glutamate raises Ca(2+) in >30 cells (both neurons and glia). Factors are discussed that may be involved in the spatial inhomogeneity of superficially located active inspiratory preBötC neurons in both slice types.
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Muller KJ, Tsechpenakis G, Homma R, Nicholls JG, Cohen LB, Eugenin J. Optical analysis of circuitry for respiratory rhythm in isolated brainstem of foetal mice. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2009; 364:2485-91. [PMID: 19651650 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2009.0070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Respiratory rhythms arise from neurons situated in the ventral medulla. We are investigating their spatial and functional relationships optically by measuring changes in intracellular calcium using the fluorescent, calcium-sensitive dye Oregon Green 488 BAPTA-1 AM while simultaneously recording the regular firing of motoneurons in the phrenic nerve in isolated brainstem/spinal cord preparations of E17 to E19 mice. Responses of identified cells are associated breath by breath with inspiratory and expiratory phases of respiration and depend on CO(2) and pH levels. Optical methods including two-photon microscopy are being developed together with computational analyses. Analysis of the spatial pattern of neuronal activity associated with respiratory rhythm, including cross-correlation analysis, reveals a network distributed in the ventral medulla with intermingling of neurons that are active during separate phases of the rhythm. Our experiments, aimed at testing whether initiation of the respiratory rhythm depends on pacemaker neurons, on networks or a combination of both, suggest an important role for networks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth J Muller
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics and Neuroscience Program, University of Miami School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33134, USA.
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Buchman AS, Boyle PA, Wilson RS, Fleischman DA, Leurgans S, Bennett DA. Association between late-life social activity and motor decline in older adults. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2009; 169:1139-46. [PMID: 19546415 DOI: 10.1001/archinternmed.2009.135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 170] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Loss of motor function is a common consequence of aging, but little is known about the factors that predict idiopathic motor decline. Our objective was to test the hypothesis that late-life social activity is related to the rate of change in motor function in old age. METHODS Longitudinal cohort study with a mean follow-up of 4.9 years with 906 persons without stroke, Parkinson disease, or dementia participating in the Rush Memory and Aging Project. At baseline, participants rated the frequency of their current participation in common social activities from which a summary measure of social activity was derived. The main outcome measure was annual change in a composite measure of global motor function, based on 9 measures of muscle strength and 9 motor performances. RESULTS Mean (SD) social activity score at baseline was 2.6 (0.58), with higher scores indicating more frequent participation in social activities. In a generalized estimating equation model, controlling for age, sex, and education, global motor function declined by approximately 0.05 U/y (estimate, 0.016; 95% confidence interval [CI], -0.057 to 0.041 [P = .02]). Each 1-point decrease in social activity was associated with approximately a 33% more rapid rate of decline in motor function (estimate, 0.016; 95% CI, 0.003 to 0.029 [P = .02]). The effect of each 1-point decrease in the social activity score at baseline on the rate of change in global motor function was the same as being approximately 5 years older at baseline (age estimate, -0.003; 95% CI, -0.004 to -0.002 [P<.001]). Furthermore, this amount of motor decline per year was associated with a more than 40% increased risk of death (hazard ratio, 1.44; 95% CI, 1.30 to 1.60) and a 65% increased risk of incident Katz disability (hazard ratio, 1.65; 95% CI, 1.48 to 1.83). The association of social activity with the rate of global motor decline did not vary along demographic lines and was unchanged (estimate, 0.025; 95% CI, 0.005 to 0.045 [P = .01]) after controlling for potential confounders including late-life physical and cognitive activity, disability, global cognition depressive symptoms, body composition, and chronic medical conditions. CONCLUSION Less frequent participation in social activities is associated with a more rapid rate of motor function decline in old age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aron S Buchman
- Departments of Neurological Sciences, Rush Alzheimer's Disease Center, Rush University Medical Center, Armour Academic Facility, Chicago, IL 60612, USA.
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Ruangkittisakul A, Okada Y, Oku Y, Koshiya N, Ballanyi K. Fluorescence imaging of active respiratory networks. Respir Physiol Neurobiol 2009; 168:26-38. [DOI: 10.1016/j.resp.2009.02.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2009] [Revised: 02/11/2009] [Accepted: 02/20/2009] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Structure-function analysis of rhythmogenic inspiratory pre-Bötzinger complex networks in "calibrated" newborn rat brainstem slices. Respir Physiol Neurobiol 2009; 168:158-78. [PMID: 19406253 DOI: 10.1016/j.resp.2009.04.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2009] [Revised: 04/14/2009] [Accepted: 04/22/2009] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Inspiratory pre-Bötzinger complex (preBötC) networks remain active in perinatal rodent brainstem slices. Our analysis of (crescendo-like) inspiratory-related population and cellular bursting in novel histologically identified transversal preBötC slices in physiological (3 mM) superfusate [K(+)] revealed: (i) the preBötC extent sufficient for rhythm in thin slices is at most 175 microm. (ii) In 700 microm thick slices with unilaterally exposed preBötC, a <100 microm kernel generates a eupnea-like inspiratory pattern under predominant influence of caudally adjacent structures or thyrotropin-releasing hormone-like transmitters, but a mixed eupnea-sigh-like pattern when influence of rostral structures or substance-P-like transmitters dominates. (iii) Primarily presynaptic processes may underlie inhibition of rhythm by opioids or raising superfusate [Ca(2+)] from lower to upper physiological limits (1-1.5 mM). (iv) High K(+) reverses depression of rhythm by raised Ca(2+), opioids and anoxia. In summary, distinct activity patterns of spatiochemically organized isolated inspiratory networks depend on both an extracellular "Ca(2+)-K(+) antagonism" and slice dimensions. This explains some discrepant findings between studies and suggests use of "calibrated" slices and more uniform experimental conditions.
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Stornetta RL. Identification of neurotransmitters and co-localization of transmitters in brainstem respiratory neurons. Respir Physiol Neurobiol 2009; 164:18-27. [PMID: 18722563 DOI: 10.1016/j.resp.2008.07.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2008] [Revised: 07/15/2008] [Accepted: 07/17/2008] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Identifying the major ionotropic neurotransmitter in a respiratory neuron is of critical importance in determining how the neuron fits into the respiratory system, whether in producing or modifying respiratory drive and rhythm. There are now several groups of respiratory neurons whose major neurotransmitters have been identified and in some of these cases, more than one transmitter has been identified in particular neurons. This review will describe the physiologically identified neurons in major respiratory areas that have been phenotyped for major ionotropic transmitters as well as those where more than one transmitter has been identified. Although the purpose of the additional transmitter has not been elucidated for any of the respiratory neurons, some examples from other systems will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- R L Stornetta
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Virginia Health System, P.O. Box 800735, 1300 Jefferson Park Avenue, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA.
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Mellen NM, Tuong CM. Semi-automated region of interest generation for the analysis of optically recorded neuronal activity. Neuroimage 2009; 47:1331-40. [PMID: 19362155 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroimage.2009.04.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2009] [Revised: 03/27/2009] [Accepted: 04/01/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Bath-applied membrane-permeant Ca(2+) indicators offer access to network function with single-cell resolution. A barrier to wider and more efficient use of this technique is the difficulty of extracting fluorescence signals from the active constituents of the network under study. Here we present a method for semi-automatic region of interest (ROI) detection that exploits the spatially compact, slowly time-varying character of the somatic signals that these indicators typically produce. First, the image series is differenced to eliminate static and very slowly varying fluorescence values, and then the differenced image series undergoes low-pass filtering in the spatial domain, to eliminate temporally isolated fluctuations in brightness. This processed image series is then thresholded so that pixel regions of fluctuating brightness are set to white, while all other regions are set to black. Binary images are averaged, and then subjected to iterative thresholding to extract ROIs associated with both dim and bright cells. The original image series is then analyzed using the generated ROIs, after which the end-user rejects spurious signals. These methods are applied to respiratory networks in the neonate rat tilted sagittal slab preparation, and to simulations with signal-to-noise ratios ranging between 1.0-0.2. Simulations established that algorithm performance degraded gracefully with increasing noise. Because signal extraction is the necessary first step in the analysis of time-varying Ca(2+) signals, semi-automated ROI detection frees the researcher to focus on the next step: selecting traces of interest from the relatively complete set generated using these methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas M Mellen
- Kosair Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY 40202, USA.
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Opioids prolong and anoxia shortens delay between onset of preinspiratory (pFRG) and inspiratory (preBötC) network bursting in newborn rat brainstems. Pflugers Arch 2009; 458:571-87. [DOI: 10.1007/s00424-009-0645-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2008] [Revised: 12/16/2008] [Accepted: 01/28/2009] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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Haouzi P, Bell HJ. Control of breathing and volitional respiratory rhythm in humans. J Appl Physiol (1985) 2009; 106:904-10. [DOI: 10.1152/japplphysiol.90675.2008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
When breathing frequency (f) is imperceptibly increased during a volitionally paced respiratory rhythm imposed by an auditory signal, tidal volume (Vt) decreases such that minute ventilation (V̇e) rises according to f-induced dead-space ventilation changes ( 18 ). As a result, significant change in alveolar ventilation and Pco2 are prevented as f varies. The present study was performed to determine what regulatory properties are retained by the respiratory control system, wherein the spontaneous automatic rhythmic activity is replaced by a volitionally paced rhythm. Six volunteers were asked to trigger each breath cycle on hearing a brief auditory signal. The time interval between subsequent auditory signals was imperceptibly changed for 10–15 min, during 1) air breathing ( condition 1), 2) the addition of a 300 ml of instrumental dead space ( condition 2), 3) an increase in the inspired level of CO2 ( condition 3), and 4) light exercise ( condition 4). We found that as f was slowly increased the elaborated Vt decreased in accordance to the background level of CO2 and metabolic rate. Indeed, for any given breath duration, Vt was shifted upward in condition 2 vs. 1, whereas the slope of Vt changes according to the volitionally rhythm was much steeper in conditions 3 and 4 vs. 1. The resulting changes in V̇e offset any f-induced changes in dead-space ventilation in all conditions. We conclude that there is an inherent, fundamental mechanism that elaborates Vt based on f when imposed by the premotor cortex in humans. The chemoreflex and exercise drive to breath interacts with this cortically mediated rhythm maintaining alveolar rather than V̇e constant as f changes. The implications of our findings are discussed in the context of our current understanding of the central generation of breathing rhythm.
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Falk S, Rekling JC. Neurons in the preBötzinger complex and VRG are located in proximity to arterioles in newborn mice. Neurosci Lett 2009; 450:229-34. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2008.11.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2008] [Revised: 10/30/2008] [Accepted: 11/17/2008] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Lalley PM. Opioidergic and dopaminergic modulation of respiration. Respir Physiol Neurobiol 2008; 164:160-7. [PMID: 18394974 PMCID: PMC2642894 DOI: 10.1016/j.resp.2008.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 119] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2008] [Revised: 02/15/2008] [Accepted: 02/18/2008] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Opioids, dopamine and their receptors are present in many regions of the bulbar respiratory network. The physiological importance of endogenous opioids to respiratory control has not been explicitly demonstrated. Nonetheless, studies of opioidergic respiratory mechanisms are important because synthetic opiate drugs have respiratory side effects that in some situations pose health risks and limit their therapeutic usefulness. They can depress breathing depth and rate, blunt respiratory responsiveness to CO2 and hypoxia, increase upper airway resistance and reduce pulmonary compliance. The opiate respiratory disturbances are mainly due to agonist activation of mu- and delta-subtypes of receptor and involve specific types of respiratory-related neurons in the ventrolateral medulla and the dorsolateral pons. Endogenous dopaminergic modulation in the CNS and carotid bodies enhances CO2-dependent respiratory drive and depresses hypoxic drive. In the CNS, synthetic agonists with selectivity for D1-and D4-types of receptor slow respiratory rhythm, whereas D2-selective agonists modulate acute and chronic responses to hypoxia. D1-receptor agonists also act centrally to increase respiratory responsiveness to CO2, and counteract opiate blunting of CO2-dependent respiratory drive and depression of breathing. Cellular targets and intracellular mechanisms responsible for opioidergic and dopaminergic respiratory effects for the most part remain to be determined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter M Lalley
- Department of Physiology, The University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Medical Sciences Center, 1300 University Avenue, Madison, WI 53706, USA.
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Abstract
This paper is the thirtieth consecutive installment of the annual review of research concerning the endogenous opioid system. It summarizes papers published during 2007 that studied the behavioral effects of molecular, pharmacological and genetic manipulation of opioid peptides, opioid receptors, opioid agonists and opioid antagonists. The particular topics that continue to be covered include the molecular-biochemical effects and neurochemical localization studies of endogenous opioids and their receptors related to behavior, and the roles of these opioid peptides and receptors in pain and analgesia; stress and social status; tolerance and dependence; learning and memory; eating and drinking; alcohol and drugs of abuse; sexual activity and hormones, pregnancy, development and endocrinology; mental illness and mood; seizures and neurologic disorders; electrical-related activity and neurophysiology; general activity and locomotion; gastrointestinal, renal and hepatic functions; cardiovascular responses; respiration and thermoregulation; and immunological responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard J Bodnar
- Department of Psychology and Neuropsychology Doctoral Sub-Program, Queens College, City University of New York, 65-30 Kissena Blvd.,Flushing, NY 11367, United States.
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Morgado-Valle C, Beltran-Parrazal L, DiFranco M, Vergara JL, Feldman JL. Somatic Ca2+ transients do not contribute to inspiratory drive in preBötzinger Complex neurons. J Physiol 2008; 586:4531-40. [PMID: 18635649 DOI: 10.1113/jphysiol.2008.154765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
PreBötzinger Complex (preBötC) neurons are postulated to underlie respiratory rhythm generation. The inspiratory phase of the respiratory cycle in vitro results from preBötC neurons firing synchronous bursts of action potentials (APs) on top of 10-20 mV, 0.3-0.8 s inspiratory drive potentials. Is the inspiratory drive in individual neurons simply the result of the passive integration of inspiratory-modulated synaptic currents or do active processes modulate these currents? As somatic Ca(2+) is known to increase during inspiration, we hypothesized that it affects inspiratory drive. We combined whole cell recording in an in vitro slice preparation with Ca(2+) microfluorometry to detect single inspiratory neuron somatic Ca(2+) transients with high temporal resolution ( approximately mus). In neurons loaded with either Fluo-4 or Oregon Green BAPTA 5 N, we observed Ca(2+) transients associated with each AP. During inspiration, significant somatic Ca(2+) influx was a direct consequence of activation of voltage-gated Ca(2+) channels by APs. However, when we isolated the inspiratory drive potential in active preBötC neurons (by blocking APs with intracellular QX-314 or by hyperpolarization), we did not detect somatic Ca(2+) transients; yet, the parameters of inspiratory drive were the same with or without APs. We conclude that, in the absence of APs, somatic Ca(2+) transients do not shape the somatic inspiratory drive potential. This suggests that in preBötC neurons, substantial and widespread somatic Ca(2+) influx is a consequence of APs during the inspiratory phase and does not contribute substantively to the inspiratory drive potential. Given evidence that the Ca(2+) buffer BAPTA can significantly reduce inspiratory drive, we hypothesize that dendritic Ca(2+) transients amplify inspiratory-modulated synaptic currents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Consuelo Morgado-Valle
- Department of Neurobiology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Box 951763, Los Angeles, CA 90095-1763, USA.
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Reconfiguration of respiratory-related population activity in a rostrally tilted transversal slice preparation following blockade of inhibitory neurotransmission in neonatal rats. Pflugers Arch 2008; 457:185-95. [DOI: 10.1007/s00424-008-0509-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2007] [Revised: 03/10/2008] [Accepted: 03/23/2008] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Giraudin A, Cabirol-Pol MJ, Simmers J, Morin D. Intercostal and abdominal respiratory motoneurons in the neonatal rat spinal cord: spatiotemporal organization and responses to limb afferent stimulation. J Neurophysiol 2008; 99:2626-40. [PMID: 18337363 DOI: 10.1152/jn.01298.2007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Respiration requires the coordinated rhythmic contractions of diverse muscles to produce ventilatory movements adapted to organismal requirements. During fast locomotion, locomotory and respiratory movements are coordinated to reduce mechanical conflict between these functions. Using semi-isolated and isolated in vitro brain stem-spinal cord preparations from neonatal rats, we have characterized for the first time the respiratory patterns of all spinal intercostal and abdominal motoneurons and explored their functional relationship with limb sensory inputs. Neuroanatomical and electrophysiological procedures were initially used to locate intercostal and abdominal motoneurons in the cord. Intercostal motoneuron somata are distributed rostrocaudally from C(7)-T(13) segments. Abdominal motoneuron somata lie between T(8) and L(2). In accordance with their soma distributions, inspiratory intercostal motoneurons are recruited in a rostrocaudal sequence during each respiratory cycle. Abdominal motoneurons express expiratory-related discharge that alternates with inspiration. Lesioning experiments confirmed the pontine origin of this expiratory activity, which was abolished by a brain stem transection at the rostral boundary of the VII nucleus, a critical area for respiratory rhythmogenesis. Entrainment of fictive respiratory rhythmicity in intercostal and abdominal motoneurons was elicited by periodic low-threshold dorsal root stimulation at lumbar (L(2)) or cervical (C(7)) levels. These effects are mediated by direct ascending fibers to the respiratory centers and a combination of long-projection and polysynaptic descending pathways. Therefore the isolated brain stem-spinal cord in vitro generates a complex pattern of respiratory activity in which alternating inspiratory and expiratory discharge occurs in functionally identified spinal motoneuron pools that are in turn targeted by both forelimb and hindlimb somatic afferents to promote locomotor-respiratory coupling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aurore Giraudin
- Université Victor Segalen Bordeaux 2, UMR CNRS 5227, Laboratoire Mouvement-Adaptation-Cognition, Bâtiment 2A, 146 Rue Léo Saignat, Bordeaux, France
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Fortuna MG, West GH, Stornetta RL, Guyenet PG. Botzinger expiratory-augmenting neurons and the parafacial respiratory group. J Neurosci 2008; 28:2506-15. [PMID: 18322095 PMCID: PMC6671197 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.5595-07.2008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2007] [Revised: 01/21/2008] [Accepted: 01/22/2008] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
In neonatal rat brains in vitro, the rostral ventral respiratory column (rVRC) contains neurons that burst just before the phrenic nerve discharge (PND) and rebound after inspiration (pre-I neurons). These neurons, called parafacial respiratory group (pfRG), have been interpreted as a master inspiratory oscillator, an expiratory rhythm generator or simply as neonatal precursors of retrotrapezoid (RTN) chemoreceptor neurons. pfRG neurons have not been identified in adults, and their phenotype is unknown. Here, we confirm that the rVRC normally lacks pre-I neurons in adult anesthetized rats. However, we show that, during hypercapnic hypoxia, a population of rVRC expiratory-augmenting (E-AUG) neurons consistently develops a pre-I discharge. These cells reside in the Bötzinger region of the rVRC, they express glycine-transporter-2, and their axons arborize throughout the VRC. Hypoxia triggers an identical pre-I pattern in retroambigual expiratory bulbospinal neurons, but this pattern is not elicited in Bötzinger expiratory-decrementing neurons, Bötzinger inspiratory neurons, RTN neurons, and blood pressure-regulating neurons. In conclusion, under hypoxia in vivo, abdominal expiratory premotor neurons of adult rats develop a pre-I pattern reminiscent of that observed in neonate brainstems in vitro. In the rVRC of adult rats, pre-I cells include selected rhythmogenic neurons (glycinergic Bötzinger neurons) but not RTN chemoreceptors. We suggest that the pfRG may not be an independent rhythm generator but a heterogeneous collection of E-AUG neurons (glycinergic Bötzinger neurons, possibly facial motor and premotor neurons), the discharge of which becomes preinspiratory under specific experimental conditions resulting from, in part, a prolonged and intensified activity of postinspiratory neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michal G. Fortuna
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia 22908
| | - Gavin H. West
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia 22908
| | - Ruth L. Stornetta
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia 22908
| | - Patrice G. Guyenet
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia 22908
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