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Dos Santos AB, Larsen SD, Guo L, Barbagallo P, Montalant A, Verhage M, Sørensen JB, Perrier JF. Microcircuit failure in STXBP1 encephalopathy leads to hyperexcitability. Cell Rep Med 2023; 4:101308. [PMID: 38086378 PMCID: PMC10772346 DOI: 10.1016/j.xcrm.2023.101308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2023] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 12/22/2023]
Abstract
De novo mutations in STXBP1 are among the most prevalent causes of neurodevelopmental disorders and lead to haploinsufficiency, cortical hyperexcitability, epilepsy, and other symptoms in people with mutations. Given that Munc18-1, the protein encoded by STXBP1, is essential for excitatory and inhibitory synaptic transmission, it is currently not understood why mutations cause hyperexcitability. We find that overall inhibition in canonical feedforward microcircuits is defective in a P15-22 mouse model for Stxbp1 haploinsufficiency. Unexpectedly, we find that inhibitory synapses formed by parvalbumin-positive interneurons were largely unaffected. Instead, excitatory synapses fail to recruit inhibitory interneurons. Modeling confirms that defects in the recruitment of inhibitory neurons cause hyperexcitation. CX516, an ampakine that enhances excitatory synapses, restores interneuron recruitment and prevents hyperexcitability. These findings establish deficits in excitatory synapses in microcircuits as a key underlying mechanism for cortical hyperexcitability in a mouse model of Stxbp1 disorder and identify compounds enhancing excitation as a direction for therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Altair Brito Dos Santos
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 3, 2200 Copenhagen N, Denmark
| | - Silas Dalum Larsen
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 3, 2200 Copenhagen N, Denmark
| | - Liangchen Guo
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 3, 2200 Copenhagen N, Denmark
| | - Paola Barbagallo
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 3, 2200 Copenhagen N, Denmark
| | - Alexia Montalant
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 3, 2200 Copenhagen N, Denmark
| | - Matthijs Verhage
- Department of Functional Genomics, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research (CNCR), Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam and Amsterdam University Medical Center, De Boelelaan 1085, 1081 HV Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Human Genetics, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research (CNCR), Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam and Amsterdam University Medical Center, De Boelelaan 1085, 1081 HV Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Jakob Balslev Sørensen
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 3, 2200 Copenhagen N, Denmark
| | - Jean-François Perrier
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 3, 2200 Copenhagen N, Denmark.
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2
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Haggerty DL, Grecco GG, Huang JY, Doud EH, Mosley AL, Lu HC, Atwood BK. Prenatal methadone exposure selectively alters protein expression in primary motor cortex: Implications for synaptic function. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1124108. [PMID: 36817148 PMCID: PMC9928955 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1124108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
As problematic opioid use has reached epidemic levels over the past 2 decades, the annual prevalence of opioid use disorder (OUD) in pregnant women has also increased 333%. Yet, how opioids affect the developing brain of offspring from mothers experiencing OUD remains understudied and not fully understood. Animal models of prenatal opioid exposure have discovered many deficits in the offspring of prenatal opioid exposed mothers, such as delays in the development of sensorimotor function and long-term locomotive hyperactivity. In attempt to further understand these deficits and link them with protein changes driven by prenatal opioid exposure, we used a mouse model of prenatal methadone exposure (PME) and preformed an unbiased multi-omic analysis across many sensoriomotor brain regions known to interact with opioid exposure. The effects of PME exposure on the primary motor cortex (M1), primary somatosensory cortex (S1), the dorsomedial striatum (DMS), and dorsolateral striatum (DLS) were assessed using quantitative proteomics and phosphoproteomics. PME drove many changes in protein and phosphopeptide abundance across all brain regions sampled. Gene and gene ontology enrichments were used to assess how protein and phosphopeptide changes in each brain region were altered. Our findings showed that M1 was uniquely affected by PME in comparison to other brain regions. PME uniquely drove changes in M1 glutamatergic synapses and synaptic function. Immunohistochemical analysis also identified anatomical differences in M1 for upregulating the density of glutamatergic and downregulating the density of GABAergic synapses due to PME. Lastly, comparisons between M1 and non-M1 multi-omics revealed conserved brain wide changes in phosphopeptides associated with synaptic activity and assembly, but only specific protein changes in synapse activity and assembly were represented in M1. Together, our studies show that lasting changes in synaptic function driven by PME are largely represented by protein and anatomical changes in M1, which may serve as a starting point for future experimental and translational interventions that aim to reverse the adverse effects of PME on offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- David L. Haggerty
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States
| | - Gregory G. Grecco
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States
- Indiana University School of Medicine, Medical Scientist Training Program, Indianapolis, IN, United States
| | - Jui-Yen Huang
- The Linda and Jack Gill Center for Biomolecular Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, United States
- Program in Neuroscience and Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, United States
| | - Emma H. Doud
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States
| | - Amber L. Mosley
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States
| | - Hui-Chen Lu
- The Linda and Jack Gill Center for Biomolecular Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, United States
- Program in Neuroscience and Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, United States
| | - Brady K. Atwood
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States
- Stark Neurosciences Research Institute, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States
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3
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Nakao A, Hayashida K, Ogura H, Mori Y, Imoto K. Hippocampus-related cognitive disorders develop in the absence of epilepsy and ataxia in the heterozygous Cacna1a mutant mice tottering. Channels (Austin) 2022; 16:113-126. [PMID: 35548926 PMCID: PMC9103357 DOI: 10.1080/19336950.2022.2072449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
CACNA1A-associated epilepsy and ataxia frequently accompany cognitive impairments as devastating co-morbidities. However, it is unclear whether the cognitive deficits are consequences secondary to the neurological symptoms elicited by CACNA1A mutations. To address this issue, Cacna1a mutant mice tottering (tg), and in particular tg/+ heterozygotes, serve as a suitable model system, given that tg/+ heterozygotes fail to display spontaneous absence epilepsy and ataxia typically observed in tg/tg homozygotes. Here, we examined hippocampus-dependent behaviors and hippocampal learning-related synaptic plasticity in tg mice. In behavioral analyses of tg/+ and tg/tg, acquisition and retention of spatial reference memory were characteristically impaired in the Morris water maze task, while working memory was intact in the eight-arm radial maze and T-maze tasks. tg/+ heterozygotes showed normal motor function in contrast to tg/tg homozygotes. In electrophysiological analyses, Schaffer collateral–CA1 synapses showed a deficit in the maintenance of long-term potentiation in tg/+ and tg/tg mice and an increased paired-pulse facilitation induced by paired pulses with 100 ms in tg/tg mice. Our results indicate that the tg mutation causes a dominant disorder of the hippocampus-related memory and synaptic plasticity, raising the possibility that in CACNA1A-associated human diseases, functionally aberrant CaV2.1 Ca2+ channels actively induce the observed cognitive deficits independently of the neurological symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akito Nakao
- Department of Synthetic Chemistry and Biological Chemistry, Graduate School of Engineering, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Katsumi Hayashida
- Department of Synthetic Chemistry and Biological Chemistry, Graduate School of Engineering, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Hiroo Ogura
- Product Creation Headquarters, Eisai Corporate, Limited, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yasuo Mori
- Department of Synthetic Chemistry and Biological Chemistry, Graduate School of Engineering, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Keiji Imoto
- Division of Neural Signaling, Department of Information Physiology, National Institute for Physiological Sciences, Okazaki, Japan
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Chow CY, Absalom N, Biggs K, King GF, Ma L. Venom-derived modulators of epilepsy-related ion channels. Biochem Pharmacol 2020; 181:114043. [PMID: 32445870 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2020.114043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2020] [Accepted: 05/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Epilepsy is characterised by spontaneous recurrent seizures that are caused by an imbalance between neuronal excitability and inhibition. Since ion channels play fundamental roles in the generation and propagation of action potentials as well as neurotransmitter release at a subset of excitatory and inhibitory synapses, their dysfunction has been linked to a wide variety of epilepsies. Indeed, these unique proteins are the major biological targets for antiepileptic drugs. Selective targeting of a specific ion channel subtype remains challenging for small molecules, due to the high level of homology among members of the same channel family. As a consequence, there is a growing trend to target ion channels with biologics. Venoms are the best known natural source of ion channel modulators, and venom peptides are increasingly recognised as potential therapeutics due to their high selectivity and potency gained through millions of years of evolutionary selection pressure. Here we describe the major ion channel families involved in the pathogenesis of various types of epilepsy, including voltage-gated Na+, K+, Ca2+ channels, Cys-loop receptors, ionotropic glutamate receptors and P2X receptors, and currently available venom-derived peptides that target these channel proteins. Although only a small number of venom peptides have successfully progressed to the clinic, there is reason to be optimistic about their development as antiepileptic drugs, notwithstanding the challenges associated with development of any class of peptide drug.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chun Yuen Chow
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Nathan Absalom
- Brain and Mind Centre, School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health and Medicine, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2050, Australia
| | - Kimberley Biggs
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Glenn F King
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia.
| | - Linlin Ma
- Griffith Institute for Drug Discovery, Griffith University, Nathan, QLD 4111, Australia.
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Jiang X, Lupien-Meilleur A, Tazerart S, Lachance M, Samarova E, Araya R, Lacaille JC, Rossignol E. Remodeled cortical inhibition prevents motor seizures in generalized epilepsy. Ann Neurol 2019; 84:436-451. [PMID: 30048010 DOI: 10.1002/ana.25301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2018] [Revised: 06/12/2018] [Accepted: 07/21/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Deletions of CACNA1A, encoding the α1 subunit of CaV 2.1 channels, cause epilepsy with ataxia in humans. Whereas the deletion of Cacna1a in γ-aminobutyric acidergic (GABAergic) interneurons (INs) derived from the medial ganglionic eminence (MGE) impairs cortical inhibition and causes generalized seizures in Nkx2.1Cre ;Cacna1ac/c mice, the targeted deletion of Cacna1a in somatostatin-expressing INs (SOM-INs), a subset of MGE-derived INs, does not result in seizures, indicating a crucial role of parvalbumin-expressing (PV) INs. Here we identify the cellular and network consequences of Cacna1a deletion specifically in PV-INs. METHODS We generated PVCre ;Cacna1ac/c mutant mice carrying a conditional Cacna1a deletion in PV neurons and evaluated the cortical cellular and network outcomes of this mutation by combining immunohistochemical assays, in vitro electrophysiology, 2-photon imaging, and in vivo video-electroencephalographic recordings. RESULTS PVCre ;Cacna1ac/c mice display reduced cortical perisomatic inhibition and frequent absences but only rare motor seizures. Compared to Nkx2.1Cre ;Cacna1ac/c mice, PVCre ;Cacna1ac/c mice have a net increase in cortical inhibition, with a gain of dendritic inhibition through sprouting of SOM-IN axons, largely preventing motor seizures. This beneficial compensatory remodeling of cortical GABAergic innervation is mTORC1-dependent and its inhibition with rapamycin leads to a striking increase in motor seizures. Furthermore, we show that a direct chemogenic activation of cortical SOM-INs prevents motor seizures in a model of kainate-induced seizures. INTERPRETATION Our findings provide novel evidence suggesting that the remodeling of cortical inhibition, with an mTOR-dependent gain of dendritic inhibition, determines the seizure phenotype in generalized epilepsy and that mTOR inhibition can be detrimental in epilepsies not primarily due to mTOR hyperactivation. Ann Neurol 2018;84:436-451.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Jiang
- Sainte-Justine University Hospital Research Center.,Department of Neurosciences and the Central Nervous System Research Group, University of Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | | | - Sabrina Tazerart
- Department of Neurosciences and the Central Nervous System Research Group, University of Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | | | - Elena Samarova
- Sainte-Justine University Hospital Research Center.,Department of Neurosciences and the Central Nervous System Research Group, University of Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Roberto Araya
- Department of Neurosciences and the Central Nervous System Research Group, University of Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Jean-Claude Lacaille
- Department of Neurosciences and the Central Nervous System Research Group, University of Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Elsa Rossignol
- Sainte-Justine University Hospital Research Center.,Department of Neurosciences and the Central Nervous System Research Group, University of Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
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6
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Miyamoto H, Tatsukawa T, Shimohata A, Yamagata T, Suzuki T, Amano K, Mazaki E, Raveau M, Ogiwara I, Oba-Asaka A, Hensch TK, Itohara S, Sakimura K, Kobayashi K, Kobayashi K, Yamakawa K. Impaired cortico-striatal excitatory transmission triggers epilepsy. Nat Commun 2019; 10:1917. [PMID: 31015467 PMCID: PMC6478892 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-019-09954-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2018] [Accepted: 04/10/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
STXBP1 and SCN2A gene mutations are observed in patients with epilepsies, although the circuit basis remains elusive. Here, we show that mice with haplodeficiency for these genes exhibit absence seizures with spike-and-wave discharges (SWDs) initiated by reduced cortical excitatory transmission into the striatum. Mice deficient for Stxbp1 or Scn2a in cortico-striatal but not cortico-thalamic neurons reproduce SWDs. In Stxbp1 haplodeficient mice, there is a reduction in excitatory transmission from the neocortex to striatal fast-spiking interneurons (FSIs). FSI activity transiently decreases at SWD onset, and pharmacological potentiation of AMPA receptors in the striatum but not in the thalamus suppresses SWDs. Furthermore, in wild-type mice, pharmacological inhibition of cortico-striatal FSI excitatory transmission triggers absence and convulsive seizures in a dose-dependent manner. These findings suggest that impaired cortico-striatal excitatory transmission is a plausible mechanism that triggers epilepsy in Stxbp1 and Scn2a haplodeficient mice. Spike and wave discharge (SWD) activity is seen during absence seizures and is thought to be thalamocortical in origin. Here, the authors show that SWDs are initiated through the impaired corticostriatal excitatory transmissions onto striatal fast spiking interneurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroyuki Miyamoto
- Laboratory for Neurogenetics, RIKEN Center for Brain Science, Wako, Saitama, 351-0198, Japan.,PRESTO, Japan Science and Technology Agency, Saitama, 332-0012, Japan.,International Research Center for Neurointelligence (IRCN), The University of Tokyo Institutes for Advanced Study, Tokyo, 113-0033, Japan
| | - Tetsuya Tatsukawa
- Laboratory for Neurogenetics, RIKEN Center for Brain Science, Wako, Saitama, 351-0198, Japan
| | - Atsushi Shimohata
- Laboratory for Neurogenetics, RIKEN Center for Brain Science, Wako, Saitama, 351-0198, Japan
| | - Tetsushi Yamagata
- Laboratory for Neurogenetics, RIKEN Center for Brain Science, Wako, Saitama, 351-0198, Japan
| | - Toshimitsu Suzuki
- Laboratory for Neurogenetics, RIKEN Center for Brain Science, Wako, Saitama, 351-0198, Japan
| | - Kenji Amano
- Laboratory for Neurogenetics, RIKEN Center for Brain Science, Wako, Saitama, 351-0198, Japan
| | - Emi Mazaki
- Laboratory for Neurogenetics, RIKEN Center for Brain Science, Wako, Saitama, 351-0198, Japan
| | - Matthieu Raveau
- Laboratory for Neurogenetics, RIKEN Center for Brain Science, Wako, Saitama, 351-0198, Japan
| | - Ikuo Ogiwara
- Laboratory for Neurogenetics, RIKEN Center for Brain Science, Wako, Saitama, 351-0198, Japan.,Department of Physiology, Nippon Medical School, Tokyo, 113-8602, Japan
| | - Atsuko Oba-Asaka
- International Research Center for Neurointelligence (IRCN), The University of Tokyo Institutes for Advanced Study, Tokyo, 113-0033, Japan.,Laboratory for Behavioral Genetics, RIKEN Center for Brain Science, Wako, Saitama, 351-0198, Japan
| | - Takao K Hensch
- International Research Center for Neurointelligence (IRCN), The University of Tokyo Institutes for Advanced Study, Tokyo, 113-0033, Japan
| | - Shigeyoshi Itohara
- Laboratory for Behavioral Genetics, RIKEN Center for Brain Science, Wako, Saitama, 351-0198, Japan.,FIRST, Japan Science and Technology Agency, Saitama, 332-0012, Japan
| | - Kenji Sakimura
- Department of Cellular Neurobiology, Brain Research Institute, Niigata University, Niigata, 951-8585, Japan
| | - Kenta Kobayashi
- Section of Viral Vector Development, National Institute for Physiological Sciences, Okazaki, 444-8585, Japan.,Graduate University for Advanced Studies (SOKENDAI), Hayama, 240-0193, Japan
| | - Kazuto Kobayashi
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima, 960-1295, Japan
| | - Kazuhiro Yamakawa
- Laboratory for Neurogenetics, RIKEN Center for Brain Science, Wako, Saitama, 351-0198, Japan.
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7
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Pendleton AL, Shen F, Taravella AM, Emery S, Veeramah KR, Boyko AR, Kidd JM. Comparison of village dog and wolf genomes highlights the role of the neural crest in dog domestication. BMC Biol 2018; 16:64. [PMID: 29950181 PMCID: PMC6022502 DOI: 10.1186/s12915-018-0535-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2018] [Accepted: 05/23/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Domesticated from gray wolves between 10 and 40 kya in Eurasia, dogs display a vast array of phenotypes that differ from their ancestors, yet mirror other domesticated animal species, a phenomenon known as the domestication syndrome. Here, we use signatures persisting in dog genomes to identify genes and pathways possibly altered by the selective pressures of domestication. RESULTS Whole-genome SNP analyses of 43 globally distributed village dogs and 10 wolves differentiated signatures resulting from domestication rather than breed formation. We identified 246 candidate domestication regions containing 10.8 Mb of genome sequence and 429 genes. The regions share haplotypes with ancient dogs, suggesting that the detected signals are not the result of recent selection. Gene enrichments highlight numerous genes linked to neural crest and central nervous system development as well as neurological function. Read depth analysis suggests that copy number variation played a minor role in dog domestication. CONCLUSIONS Our results identify genes that act early in embryogenesis and can confer phenotypes distinguishing domesticated dogs from wolves, such as tameness, smaller jaws, floppy ears, and diminished craniofacial development as the targets of selection during domestication. These differences reflect the phenotypes of the domestication syndrome, which can be explained by alterations in the migration or activity of neural crest cells during development. We propose that initial selection during early dog domestication was for behavior, a trait influenced by genes which act in the neural crest, which secondarily gave rise to the phenotypes of modern dogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda L Pendleton
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Feichen Shen
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Angela M Taravella
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Sarah Emery
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Krishna R Veeramah
- Department of Ecology and Evolution, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, 11794, USA
| | - Adam R Boyko
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, 14853, USA
| | - Jeffrey M Kidd
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA.
- Department of Computational Medicine and Bioinformatics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA.
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8
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Oyrer J, Maljevic S, Scheffer IE, Berkovic SF, Petrou S, Reid CA. Ion Channels in Genetic Epilepsy: From Genes and Mechanisms to Disease-Targeted Therapies. Pharmacol Rev 2018; 70:142-173. [PMID: 29263209 DOI: 10.1124/pr.117.014456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 163] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2017] [Accepted: 10/02/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Epilepsy is a common and serious neurologic disease with a strong genetic component. Genetic studies have identified an increasing collection of disease-causing genes. The impact of these genetic discoveries is wide reaching-from precise diagnosis and classification of syndromes to the discovery and validation of new drug targets and the development of disease-targeted therapeutic strategies. About 25% of genes identified in epilepsy encode ion channels. Much of our understanding of disease mechanisms comes from work focused on this class of protein. In this study, we review the genetic, molecular, and physiologic evidence supporting the pathogenic role of a number of different voltage- and ligand-activated ion channels in genetic epilepsy. We also review proposed disease mechanisms for each ion channel and highlight targeted therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Oyrer
- The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Melbourne, Australia (J.O., S.M., I.E.S., S.P., C.A.R.); Department of Medicine, Austin Health, University of Melbourne, Heidelberg West, Melbourne, Australia (I.E.S., S.F.B.); and Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia (I.E.S.)
| | - Snezana Maljevic
- The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Melbourne, Australia (J.O., S.M., I.E.S., S.P., C.A.R.); Department of Medicine, Austin Health, University of Melbourne, Heidelberg West, Melbourne, Australia (I.E.S., S.F.B.); and Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia (I.E.S.)
| | - Ingrid E Scheffer
- The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Melbourne, Australia (J.O., S.M., I.E.S., S.P., C.A.R.); Department of Medicine, Austin Health, University of Melbourne, Heidelberg West, Melbourne, Australia (I.E.S., S.F.B.); and Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia (I.E.S.)
| | - Samuel F Berkovic
- The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Melbourne, Australia (J.O., S.M., I.E.S., S.P., C.A.R.); Department of Medicine, Austin Health, University of Melbourne, Heidelberg West, Melbourne, Australia (I.E.S., S.F.B.); and Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia (I.E.S.)
| | - Steven Petrou
- The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Melbourne, Australia (J.O., S.M., I.E.S., S.P., C.A.R.); Department of Medicine, Austin Health, University of Melbourne, Heidelberg West, Melbourne, Australia (I.E.S., S.F.B.); and Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia (I.E.S.)
| | - Christopher A Reid
- The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Melbourne, Australia (J.O., S.M., I.E.S., S.P., C.A.R.); Department of Medicine, Austin Health, University of Melbourne, Heidelberg West, Melbourne, Australia (I.E.S., S.F.B.); and Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia (I.E.S.)
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Role of astrocyte connexin hemichannels in cortical spreading depression. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-BIOMEMBRANES 2017; 1860:216-223. [PMID: 28864364 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamem.2017.08.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2017] [Revised: 08/08/2017] [Accepted: 08/23/2017] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Cortical spreading depression (CSD) is an intriguing phenomenon consisting of massive slow brain depolarizations that affects neurons and glial cells. It has been recognized since 1944, but its pathogenesis has only been uncovered during the last decade. Acute brain injuries can be further complicated by CSD in >50% of severe cases. This phenomenon is repetitive and produces a metabolic overload that increments secondary damage. Propagation of CSD is known to be linked to excitotoxicity, but the mechanisms associated with its initiation remain less understood. It has been shown that CSD can be initiated by increases in extracellular [K+] ([K+]e), and animal models use high [K+]e to promote CSD. Connexin hemichannel activity increases due to high [K+]e and low extracellular [Ca2+], conditions that occur after brain injury. Moreover, glial cell gap junction channels are fundamental in controlling extracellular medium composition, particularly in maintaining normal extracellular glutamate and K+ concentrations through "spatial buffering". However, the role of astrocytic gap junctions under tissue stress can change to damage spread in the acute damage zone whereas the reduced communication in adjacent zone would reduce cell dead propagation. Here, we review the main findings associated with CSD, and discuss the possible involvement of astrocytic connexin-based channels in secondary damage propagation. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Gap Junction Proteins edited by Jean Claude Herve.
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10
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Benedetti B, Benedetti A, Flucher BE. Loss of the calcium channel β4 subunit impairs parallel fibre volley and Purkinje cell firing in cerebellum of adult ataxic mice. Eur J Neurosci 2016; 43:1486-98. [PMID: 27003325 PMCID: PMC4949674 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.13241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2016] [Revised: 03/17/2016] [Accepted: 03/18/2016] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
The auxiliary voltage-gated calcium channel subunit β4 supports targeting of calcium channels to the cell membrane, modulates ionic currents and promotes synaptic release in the central nervous system. β4 is abundant in cerebellum and its loss causes ataxia. However, the type of calcium channels and cerebellar functions affected by the loss of β4 are currently unknown. We therefore studied the structure and function of Purkinje cells in acute cerebellar slices of the β4 (-/-) ataxic (lethargic) mouse, finding that loss of β4 affected Purkinje cell input, morphology and pacemaker activity. In adult lethargic cerebellum evoked postsynaptic currents from parallel fibres were depressed, while paired-pulse facilitation and spontaneous synaptic currents were unaffected. Because climbing fibre input was spared, the parallel fibre/climbing fibre input ratio was reduced. The dendritic arbor of adult lethargic Purkinje cells displayed fewer and shorter dendrites, but a normal spine density. Accordingly, the width of the molecular and granular layers was reduced. These defects recapitulate the impaired cerebellar maturation observed upon Cav 2.1 ataxic mutations. However, unlike Cav 2.1 mutations, lethargic Purkinje cells also displayed a striking decrease in pacemaker firing frequency, without loss of firing regularity. All these deficiencies appear in late development, indicating the importance of β4 for the normal differentiation and function of mature Purkinje cells networks. The observed reduction of the parallel fibre input, the altered parallel fibre/climbing fibre ratio and the reduced Purkinje cell output can contribute to the severe motor impairment caused by the loss of the calcium channel β4 subunit in lethargic mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruno Benedetti
- Department of Physiology and Medical Physics, Medical University of Innsbruck, Schöpfstraße 41, Innsbruck, A-6020, Austria
| | - Ariane Benedetti
- Department of Physiology and Medical Physics, Medical University of Innsbruck, Schöpfstraße 41, Innsbruck, A-6020, Austria
| | - Bernhard E Flucher
- Department of Physiology and Medical Physics, Medical University of Innsbruck, Schöpfstraße 41, Innsbruck, A-6020, Austria
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11
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Abstract
A central theme in the quest to unravel the genetic basis of epilepsy has been the effort to elucidate the roles played by inherited defects in ion channels. The ubiquitous expression of voltage-gated calcium channels (VGCCs) throughout the central nervous system (CNS), along with their involvement in fundamental processes, such as neuronal excitability and synaptic transmission, has made them attractive candidates. Recent insights provided by the identification of mutations in the P/Q-type calcium channel in humans and rodents with epilepsy and the finding of thalamic T-type calcium channel dysfunction in the absence of seizures have raised expectations of a causal role of calcium channels in the polygenic inheritance of idiopathic epilepsy. In this review, we consider how genetic variation in neuronal VGCCs may influence the development of epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanjeev Rajakulendran
- UCL-Institute of Neurology, MRC Centre for Neuromuscular Diseases, Queen Square, London WC1N 3BG, United Kingdom
| | - Michael G Hanna
- UCL-Institute of Neurology, MRC Centre for Neuromuscular Diseases, Queen Square, London WC1N 3BG, United Kingdom
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12
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Abnormal excitability and episodic low-frequency oscillations in the cerebral cortex of the tottering mouse. J Neurosci 2015; 35:5664-79. [PMID: 25855180 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.3107-14.2015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
The Ca(2+) channelopathies caused by mutations of the CACNA1A gene that encodes the pore-forming subunit of the human Cav2.1 (P/Q-type) voltage-gated Ca(2+) channel include episodic ataxia type 2 (EA2). Although, in EA2 the emphasis has been on cerebellar dysfunction, patients also exhibit episodic, nonmotoric abnormalities involving the cerebral cortex. This study demonstrates episodic, low-frequency oscillations (LFOs) throughout the cerebral cortex of tottering (tg/tg) mice, a widely used model of EA2. Ranging between 0.035 and 0.11 Hz, the LFOs in tg/tg mice can spontaneously develop very high power, referred to as a high-power state. The LFOs in tg/tg mice are mediated in part by neuronal activity as tetrodotoxin decreases the oscillations and cortical neuron discharge contain the same low frequencies. The high-power state involves compensatory mechanisms because acutely decreasing P/Q-type Ca(2+) channel function in either wild-type (WT) or tg/tg mice does not induce the high-power state. In contrast, blocking l-type Ca(2+) channels, known to be upregulated in tg/tg mice, reduces the high-power state. Intriguingly, basal excitatory glutamatergic neurotransmission constrains the high-power state because blocking ionotropic or metabotropic glutamate receptors results in high-power LFOs in tg/tg but not WT mice. The high-power LFOs are decreased markedly by acetazolamide and 4-aminopyridine, the primary treatments for EA2, suggesting disease relevance. Together, these results demonstrate that the high-power LFOs in the tg/tg cerebral cortex represent a highly abnormal excitability state that may underlie noncerebellar symptoms that characterize CACNA1A mutations.
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13
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CACNA1A haploinsufficiency causes cognitive impairment, autism and epileptic encephalopathy with mild cerebellar symptoms. Eur J Hum Genet 2015; 23:1505-12. [PMID: 25735478 DOI: 10.1038/ejhg.2015.21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 118] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2014] [Revised: 01/15/2015] [Accepted: 01/20/2015] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
CACNA1A loss-of-function mutations classically present as episodic ataxia type 2 (EA2), with brief episodes of ataxia and nystagmus, or with progressive spinocerebellar ataxia (SCA6). A minority of patients carrying CACNA1A mutations develops epilepsy. Non-motor symptoms associated with these mutations are often overlooked. In this study, we report 16 affected individuals from four unrelated families presenting with a spectrum of cognitive impairment including intellectual deficiency, executive dysfunction, ADHD and/or autism, as well as childhood-onset epileptic encephalopathy with refractory absence epilepsy, febrile seizures, downbeat nystagmus and episodic ataxia. Sequencing revealed one CACNA1A gene deletion, two deleterious CACNA1A point mutations including one known stop-gain and one new frameshift variant and a new splice-site variant. This report illustrates the phenotypic heterogeneity of CACNA1A loss-of-function mutations and stresses the cognitive and epileptic manifestations caused by the loss of CaV2.1 channels function, presumably affecting cerebellar, cortical and limbic networks.
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14
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Crunelli V, Carmignoto G, Steinhäuser C. Novel astrocyte targets: new avenues for the therapeutic treatment of epilepsy. Neuroscientist 2015; 21:62-83. [PMID: 24609207 PMCID: PMC4361461 DOI: 10.1177/1073858414523320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
During the last 20 years, it has been well established that a finely tuned, continuous crosstalk between neurons and astrocytes not only critically modulates physiological brain functions but also underlies many neurological diseases. In particular, this novel way of interpreting brain activity is markedly influencing our current knowledge of epilepsy, prompting a re-evaluation of old findings and guiding novel experimentation. Here, we review recent studies that have unraveled novel and unique contributions of astrocytes to the generation and spread of convulsive and nonconvulsive seizures and epileptiform activity. The emerging scenario advocates an overall framework in which a dynamic and reciprocal interplay among astrocytic and neuronal ensembles is fundamental for a fuller understanding of epilepsy. In turn, this offers novel astrocytic targets for the development of those really novel chemical entities for the control of convulsive and nonconvulsive seizures that have been acknowledged as a key priority in the management of epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincenzo Crunelli
- Neuroscience Division, School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Giorgio Carmignoto
- Centro Nazionale della Ricerca, Neuroscience Institute and Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Christian Steinhäuser
- Institute of Cellular Neurosciences, Medical Faculty, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
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15
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16
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Proft J, Weiss N. G protein regulation of neuronal calcium channels: back to the future. Mol Pharmacol 2014; 87:890-906. [PMID: 25549669 DOI: 10.1124/mol.114.096008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2014] [Accepted: 12/30/2014] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuronal voltage-gated calcium channels have evolved as one of the most important players for calcium entry into presynaptic endings responsible for the release of neurotransmitters. In turn, and to fine-tune synaptic activity and neuronal communication, numerous neurotransmitters exert a potent negative feedback over the calcium signal provided by G protein-coupled receptors. This regulation pathway of physiologic importance is also extensively exploited for therapeutic purposes, for instance in the treatment of neuropathic pain by morphine and other μ-opioid receptor agonists. However, despite more than three decades of intensive research, important questions remain unsolved regarding the molecular and cellular mechanisms of direct G protein inhibition of voltage-gated calcium channels. In this study, we revisit this particular regulation and explore new considerations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliane Proft
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Norbert Weiss
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Prague, Czech Republic
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17
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Rossignol E, Kobow K, Simonato M, Loeb JA, Grisar T, Gilby KL, Vinet J, Kadam SD, Becker AJ. WONOEP appraisal: new genetic approaches to study epilepsy. Epilepsia 2014; 55:1170-86. [PMID: 24965021 PMCID: PMC4126888 DOI: 10.1111/epi.12692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/13/2014] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
New genetic investigation techniques, including next-generation sequencing, epigenetic profiling, cell lineage mapping, targeted genetic manipulation of specific neuronal cell types, stem cell reprogramming, and optogenetic manipulations within epileptic networks are progressively unraveling the mysteries of epileptogenesis and ictogenesis. These techniques have opened new avenues to discover the molecular basis of epileptogenesis and to study the physiologic effects of mutations in epilepsy-associated genes on a multilayer level, from cells to circuits. This manuscript reviews recently published applications of these new genetic technologies in the study of epilepsy, as well as work presented by the authors at the genetic session of the XII Workshop on the Neurobiology of Epilepsy (WONOEP 2013) in Quebec, Canada. Next-generation sequencing is providing investigators with an unbiased means to assess the molecular causes of sporadic forms of epilepsy and has revealed the complexity and genetic heterogeneity of sporadic epilepsy disorders. To assess the functional impact of mutations in these newly identified genes on specific neuronal cell types during brain development, new modeling strategies in animals, including conditional genetics in mice and in utero knock-down approaches, are enabling functional validation with exquisite cell-type and temporal specificity. In addition, optogenetics, using cell-type-specific Cre recombinase driver lines, is enabling investigators to dissect networks involved in epilepsy. In addition, genetically encoded cell-type labeling is providing new means to assess the role of the nonneuronal components of epileptic networks such as glial cells. Furthermore, beyond its role in revealing coding variants involved in epileptogenesis, next-generation sequencing can be used to assess the epigenetic modifications that lead to sustained network hyperexcitability in epilepsy, including methylation changes in gene promoters and noncoding ribonucleic acid (RNA) involved in modifying gene expression following seizures. In addition, genetically based bioluminescent reporters are providing new opportunities to assess neuronal activity and neurotransmitter levels both in vitro and in vivo in the context of epilepsy. Finally, genetically rederived neurons generated from patient induced pluripotent stem cells and genetically modified zebrafish have become high-throughput means to investigate disease mechanisms and potential new therapies. Genetics has changed the field of epilepsy research considerably, and is paving the way for better diagnosis and therapies for patients with epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elsa Rossignol
- Pediatric & Neuroscience Dept. & Brain Disease Research Group, CHU Ste-Justine, Montreal, Canada
| | - Katja Kobow
- Dept. of Neuropathology, Univ. Hospital Erlangen, Germany
| | - Michele Simonato
- Dept. of Medical Sciences (Pharmacology), Univ. of Ferrara, Italy
| | - Jeffrey A. Loeb
- Dept. of Neurology & Rehabilitation, Univ. of Illinois, Chicago, USA
| | | | - Krista L. Gilby
- Dept. of Medicine, Royal Hospital, The Melbourne Brain Centre, Univ. of Melbourne, Australia
| | - Jonathan Vinet
- Dept. of Neural, Biomedical, Metabolic & Neural Sciences, Univ. of Modena, Italy
| | - Shilpa D. Kadam
- Depts. of Neuroscience and Neurology, Kennedy Krieger & Johns Hopkins Univ. School of Medicine of Baltimore, USA
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18
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Compromised maturation of GABAergic inhibition underlies abnormal network activity in the hippocampus of epileptic Ca2+ channel mutant mice, tottering. Pflugers Arch 2014; 467:737-52. [DOI: 10.1007/s00424-014-1555-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2014] [Revised: 06/09/2014] [Accepted: 06/10/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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19
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Hammamieh R, Chakraborty N, Gautam A, Miller SA, Muhie S, Meyerhoff J, Jett M. Transcriptomic analysis of the effects of a fish oil enriched diet on murine brains. PLoS One 2014; 9:e90425. [PMID: 24632812 PMCID: PMC3954562 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0090425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2013] [Accepted: 01/29/2014] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The health benefits of fish oil enriched with high omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFA) are widely documented. Fish oil as dietary supplements, however, show moderate clinical efficacy, highlighting an immediate scope of systematic in vitro feedback. Our transcriptomic study was designed to investigate the genomic shift of murine brains fed on fish oil enriched diets. A customized fish oil enriched diet (FD) and standard lab diet (SD) were separately administered to two randomly chosen populations of C57BL/6J mice from their weaning age until late adolescence. Statistical analysis mined 1,142 genes of interest (GOI) differentially altered in the hemibrains collected from the FD- and SD-fed mice at the age of five months. The majority of identified GOI (∼40%) encodes proteins located in the plasma membrane, suggesting that fish oil primarily facilitated the membrane-oriented biofunctions. FD potentially augmented the nervous system's development and functions by selectively stimulating the Src-mediated calcium-induced growth cascade and the downstream PI3K-AKT-PKC pathways. FD reduced the amyloidal burden, attenuated oxidative stress, and assisted in somatostatin activation—the signatures of attenuation of Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and affective disorder. FD induced elevation of FKBP5 and suppression of BDNF, which are often linked with the improvement of anxiety disorder, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Hence we anticipate efficacy of FD in treating illnesses such as depression that are typically triggered by the hypoactivities of dopaminergic, adrenergic, cholinergic, and GABAergic networks. Contrastingly, FD's efficacy could be compromised in treating illnesses such as bipolar disorder and schizophrenia, which are triggered by hyperactivities of the same set of neuromodulators. A more comprehensive investigation is recommended to elucidate the implications of fish oil on disease pathomechanisms, and the result-driven repositioning of fish oil utilization may revitalize its therapeutic efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rasha Hammamieh
- United States Army Center for Environmental Health Research, Fort Detrick, Maryland, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Nabarun Chakraborty
- United States Army Center for Environmental Health Research, Fort Detrick, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Aarti Gautam
- United States Army Center for Environmental Health Research, Fort Detrick, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Stacy-Ann Miller
- United States Army Center for Environmental Health Research, Fort Detrick, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Seid Muhie
- United States Army Center for Environmental Health Research, Fort Detrick, Maryland, United States of America
| | - James Meyerhoff
- United States Army Center for Environmental Health Research, Fort Detrick, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Marti Jett
- United States Army Center for Environmental Health Research, Fort Detrick, Maryland, United States of America
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20
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T-type Ca2+ channels in absence epilepsy. Pflugers Arch 2014; 466:719-34. [DOI: 10.1007/s00424-014-1461-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2014] [Accepted: 01/22/2014] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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21
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Maheshwari A, Noebels JL. Monogenic models of absence epilepsy: windows into the complex balance between inhibition and excitation in thalamocortical microcircuits. PROGRESS IN BRAIN RESEARCH 2014; 213:223-52. [PMID: 25194492 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-444-63326-2.00012-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Absence epilepsy is a common disorder that arises in childhood and can be refractory to medical treatment. Single genetic mutations in mice, at times found in patients with absence epilepsy, provide the unique opportunity to bridge the gap between dysfunction at the genetic level and pathological oscillations within the thalamocortical circuit. Interestingly, unlike other forms of epilepsy, only genes related to ion channels have so far been linked to absence phenotypes. Here, we delineate a paradigm which attempts to unify the various monogenic models based on decades of research. While reviewing the particular impact of these individual mutations, we posit a framework involving fast feedforward disinhibition as one common mechanism that can lead to increased tonic inhibition in the cortex and/or thalamus. Enhanced tonic inhibition hyperpolarizes principal cells, deinactivates T-type calcium channels, and leads to reciprocal burst firing within the thalamocortical loop. We also review data from pharmacologic and polygenic models in light of this paradigm. Ultimately, many questions remain unanswered regarding the pathogenesis of absence epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atul Maheshwari
- Department of Neurology, Developmental Neurogenetics Laboratory, Baylor College of Medicine Houston, TX, USA.
| | - Jeffrey L Noebels
- Department of Neurology, Developmental Neurogenetics Laboratory, Baylor College of Medicine Houston, TX, USA; Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA; Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.
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22
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Abstract
Low-voltage-activated T-type Ca(2+) channels are widely expressed in various types of neurons. Once deinactivated by hyperpolarization, T-type channels are ready to be activated by a small depolarization near the resting membrane potential and, therefore, are optimal for regulating the excitability and electroresponsiveness of neurons under physiological conditions near resting states. Ca(2+) influx through T-type channels engenders low-threshold Ca(2+) spikes, which in turn trigger a burst of action potentials. Low-threshold burst firing has been implicated in the synchronization of the thalamocortical circuit during sleep and in absence seizures. It also has been suggested that T-type channels play an important role in pain signal transmission, based on their abundant expression in pain-processing pathways in peripheral and central neurons. In this review, we will describe studies on the role of T-type Ca(2+) channels in the physiological as well as pathological generation of brain rhythms in sleep, absence epilepsy, and pain signal transmission. Recent advances in studies of T-type channels in the control of cognition will also be briefly discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eunji Cheong
- Department of Biotechnology, Translational Research Center for Protein Function Control, College of Life Science and Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
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23
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Felix R, Calderón-Rivera A, Andrade A. Regulation of high-voltage-activated Ca 2+ channel function, trafficking, and membrane stability by auxiliary subunits. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013; 2:207-220. [PMID: 24949251 DOI: 10.1002/wmts.93] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Voltage-gated Ca2+ (CaV) channels mediate Ca2+ ions influx into cells in response to depolarization of the plasma membrane. They are responsible for initiation of excitation-contraction and excitation-secretion coupling, and the Ca2+ that enters cells through this pathway is also important in the regulation of protein phosphorylation, gene transcription, and many other intracellular events. Initial electrophysiological studies divided CaV channels into low-voltage-activated (LVA) and high-voltage-activated (HVA) channels. The HVA CaV channels were further subdivided into L, N, P/Q, and R-types which are oligomeric protein complexes composed of an ion-conducting CaVα1 subunit and auxiliary CaVα2δ, CaVβ, and CaVγ subunits. The functional consequences of the auxiliary subunits include altered functional and pharmacological properties of the channels as well as increased current densities. The latter observation suggests an important role of the auxiliary subunits in membrane trafficking of the CaVα1 subunit. This includes the mechanisms by which CaV channels are targeted to the plasma membrane and to appropriate regions within a given cell. Likewise, the auxiliary subunits seem to participate in the mechanisms that remove CaV channels from the plasma membrane for recycling and/or degradation. Diverse studies have provided important clues to the molecular mechanisms involved in the regulation of CaV channels by the auxiliary subunits, and the roles that these proteins could possibly play in channel targeting and membrane Stabilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ricardo Felix
- Department of Cell Biology, Center for Research and Advanced Studies of the National Polytechnic Institute (Cinvestav-IPN), Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Aida Calderón-Rivera
- Department of Cell Biology, Center for Research and Advanced Studies of the National Polytechnic Institute (Cinvestav-IPN), Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Arturo Andrade
- Department of Neuroscience, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
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24
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Cheong E, Shin HS. T-type Ca²⁺ channels in absence epilepsy. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-BIOMEMBRANES 2013; 1828:1560-71. [PMID: 23416255 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamem.2013.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2012] [Revised: 01/15/2013] [Accepted: 02/01/2013] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Low-voltage-activated T-type Ca²⁺ channels are highly expressed in the thalamocortical circuit, suggesting that they play a role in this brain circuit. Indeed, low-threshold burst firing mediated by T-type Ca²⁺ channels has long been implicated in the synchronization of the thalamocortical circuit. Over the past few decades, the conventional view has been that rhythmic burst firing mediated by T-type channels in both thalamic reticular nuclie (TRN) and thalamocortical (TC) neurons are equally critical in the generation of thalamocortical oscillations during sleep rhythms and spike-wave-discharges (SWDs). This review broadly investigates recent studies indicating that even though both TRN and TC nuclei are required for thalamocortical oscillations, the contributions of T-type channels to TRN and TC neurons are not equal in the genesis of sleep spindles and SWDs. T-type channels in TC neurons are an essential component of SWD generation, whereas the requirement for TRN T-type channels in SWD generation remains controversial at least in the GBL model of absence seizures. Therefore, a deeper understanding of the functional consequences of modulating each T-type channel subtype could guide the development of therapeutic tools for absence seizures while minimizing side effects on physiological thalamocortical oscillations. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Calcium channels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eunji Cheong
- Department of Biotechnology, Translational Research Center for Protein Function Control, College of Life Science and Biotechnology, Yonsei University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
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25
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The involvement of limbic structures in typical and atypical absence epilepsy. Epilepsy Res 2013; 103:111-23. [DOI: 10.1016/j.eplepsyres.2012.08.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2012] [Revised: 08/15/2012] [Accepted: 08/22/2012] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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26
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Enhanced synaptic inhibition disrupts the efferent code of cerebellar Purkinje neurons in leaner Cav2.1 Ca 2+ channel mutant mice. THE CEREBELLUM 2012; 11:666-80. [PMID: 20845003 DOI: 10.1007/s12311-010-0210-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Cerebellar Purkinje cells (PCs) encode afferent information in the rate and temporal structure of their spike trains. Both spontaneous firing in these neurons and its modulation by synaptic inputs depend on Ca(2+) current carried by Ca(v)2.1 (P/Q) type channels. Previous studies have described how loss-of-function Ca(v)2.1 mutations affect intrinsic excitability and excitatory transmission in PCs. This study examines the effects of the leaner mutation on fast GABAergic transmission and its modulation of spontaneous firing in PCs. The leaner mutation enhances spontaneous synaptic inhibition of PCs, leading to transitory reductions in PC firing rate and increased spike rate variability. Enhanced inhibition is paralleled by an increase in the frequency and amplitude of spontaneous inhibitory postsynaptic currents (sIPSCs) measured under voltage clamp. These differences are abolished by tetrodotoxin, implicating effects of the mutation on spike-induced GABA release. Elevated sIPSC frequency in leaner PCs is not accompanied by increased mean firing rate in molecular layer interneurons, but IPSCs evoked in PCs by direct stimulation of these neurons exhibit larger amplitude, slower decay rate, and a higher burst probability compared to wild-type PCs. Ca(2+) release from internal stores appears to be required for enhanced inhibition since differences in sIPSC frequency and amplitude in leaner and wild-type PCs are abolished by thapsigargin, an ER Ca(2+) pump inhibitor. These findings represent the first account of the functional consequences of a loss-of-function P/Q channel mutation on PC firing properties through altered GABAergic transmission. Gain in synaptic inhibition shown here would compromise the fidelity of information coding in these neurons and may contribute to impaired cerebellar function resulting from loss-of function mutations in the Ca(V)2.1 channel gene.
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27
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Crunelli V, Carmignoto G. New vistas on astroglia in convulsive and non-convulsive epilepsy highlight novel astrocytic targets for treatment. J Physiol 2012; 591:775-85. [PMID: 23230232 DOI: 10.1113/jphysiol.2012.243378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Our current knowledge of the role of astrocytes in health and disease states supports the view that many physiological brain functions and neurological diseases are finely tuned, and in certain cases fully determined, by the continuous cross-talk between astrocytes and neurons. This novel way of interpreting brain activity as a dynamic and reciprocal interplay between astrocytic and neuronal networks has also influenced our understanding of epilepsy, not only forcing a reinterpretation of old findings, but also being a catalyst for novel experimentation. In this review, we summarize some of the recent studies that highlight these novel distinct contributions of astrocytes to the expression of convulsive and non-convulsive epileptiform discharges and seizures. The emerging picture suggests a general framework based on bilateral signalling between astrocytes and neurons for a fuller understanding of epileptogenic and epileptic mechanisms in the brain network. Astrocytes potentially represent targets for the development of those novel chemical entities with improved efficacy for the treatment of convulsive and non-convulsive epilepsy that expert groups have recognized as one of the key priorities for the management of epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincenzo Crunelli
- Neuroscience Division, School of Bioscience, Cardiff University, Museum Avenue, Cardiff CF10 3AX, UK.
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28
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El-Azab MF, Moustafa YM. Influence of calcium channel blockers on anticonvulsant and antinociceptive activities of valproic acid in pentylenetetrazole-kindled mice. Pharmacol Rep 2012; 64:305-14. [PMID: 22661180 DOI: 10.1016/s1734-1140(12)70769-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2011] [Revised: 11/21/2011] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Comorbidities of epilepsy comprise some pain disorders, including acute nociceptive pain, therefore, antiepileptic drugs can prove efficacy in the management of this kind of pain albeit with several adverse reactions. The current study aimed to evaluate the modulatory effects of calcium channel blockers on the anticonvulsant and antinociceptive effects of valproic acid (VPA) in pentylenetetrazole (PTZ)-kindled mice. METHODS Kindled mice were treated with 20 mg/kg (ip) of diltiazem, nifedipine, or verapamil, then VPA(200 mg/kg, ip) at 30 min intervals before PTZ administration (35 mg/kg, ip). RESULTS Our data demonstrated that the three calcium channel blockers afforded a protection against sub-convulsive doses of PTZ. Their protective effects were comparable to that exerted by the standard antiepileptic drug, VPA. The anticonvulsant activity of VPA was further enhanced by its combination with diltiazem. Also, PTZ-kindling reduced pain-threshold as evaluated by hot plate analgesimeter and acetic acid-induced writhing test. Although the repeated administration of VPA significantly increased pain-threshold in kindled mice, it was not able to normalize it. Similar results were obtained with diltiazem and nifedipine. Interestingly, combination of diltiazem or nifedipine with VPA elicited the most profound antinociceptive effect in kindled mice. CONCLUSIONS These results demonstrate for the first time the beneficial role of some calcium channel blockers in combination with VPA in the management of acute nociceptive pain. Therapeutically, this enhancing profile for calcium channel blockers fosters a safer and more effective drug-combination regimen than valproic acid alone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mona F El-Azab
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Suez Canal University, Ismailia 41522, Egypt.
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Buraei Z, Yang J. Structure and function of the β subunit of voltage-gated Ca²⁺ channels. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-BIOMEMBRANES 2012; 1828:1530-40. [PMID: 22981275 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamem.2012.08.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 97] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2012] [Revised: 08/22/2012] [Accepted: 08/25/2012] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
The voltage-gated Ca²⁺ channel β subunit (Ca(v)β) is a cytosolic auxiliary subunit that plays an essential role in regulating the surface expression and gating properties of high-voltage activated (HVA) Ca²⁺ channels. It is also crucial for the modulation of HVA Ca²⁺ channels by G proteins, kinases, Ras-related RGK GTPases, and other proteins. There are indications that Ca(v)β may carry out Ca²⁺ channel-independent functions. Ca(v)β knockouts are either non-viable or result in a severe pathophysiology, and mutations in Ca(v)β have been implicated in disease. In this article, we review the structure and various biological functions of Ca(v)β, as well as recent advances. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Calcium channels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zafir Buraei
- Department of Biological Sciences, Columbia University, New York, NY 10027, USA
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Experimental models of seizures and epilepsies. PROGRESS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE 2012; 105:57-82. [PMID: 22137429 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-394596-9.00003-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Epilepsy is one of the most common neurological conditions that affect people of all ages. Epilepsy is characterized by occurrence of spontaneous recurrent seizures. Currently available drugs are ineffective in controlling seizures in approximately one-third of patients with epilepsy. Moreover, these drugs are associated with adverse effects, and none of them are effective in preventing development of epilepsy following an insult or injury. To develop an effective therapeutic strategy that can interfere with the process of development of epilepsy (epileptogenesis), it is crucial to study the changes that occur in the brain after an injury and before epilepsy develops. It is not possible to determine these changes in human tissue for obvious ethical reasons. Over the years, experimental models of epilepsies have contributed immensely in improving our understanding of mechanism of epileptogenesis as well as of seizure generation. There are many models that replicate at least some of the characteristics of human epilepsy. Each model has its advantages and disadvantages, and the investigator should be aware of this before selecting a specific model for his/her studies. Availability of a good animal model is a key to the development of an effective treatment. Unfortunately, there are many epilepsy syndromes, specifically pediatric, which still lack a valid animal model. It is vital that more research is done to develop animal models for such syndromes.
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Abstract
Calcium regulates a wide spectrum of physiological processes such as heartbeat, muscle contraction, neuronal communication, hormone release, cell division, and gene transcription. Major entryways for Ca(2+) in excitable cells are high-voltage activated (HVA) Ca(2+) channels. These are plasma membrane proteins composed of several subunits, including α(1), α(2)δ, β, and γ. Although the principal α(1) subunit (Ca(v)α(1)) contains the channel pore, gating machinery and most drug binding sites, the cytosolic auxiliary β subunit (Ca(v)β) plays an essential role in regulating the surface expression and gating properties of HVA Ca(2+) channels. Ca(v)β is also crucial for the modulation of HVA Ca(2+) channels by G proteins, kinases, and the Ras-related RGK GTPases. New proteins have emerged in recent years that modulate HVA Ca(2+) channels by binding to Ca(v)β. There are also indications that Ca(v)β may carry out Ca(2+) channel-independent functions, including directly regulating gene transcription. All four subtypes of Ca(v)β, encoded by different genes, have a modular organization, consisting of three variable regions, a conserved guanylate kinase (GK) domain, and a conserved Src-homology 3 (SH3) domain, placing them into the membrane-associated guanylate kinase (MAGUK) protein family. Crystal structures of Ca(v)βs reveal how they interact with Ca(v)α(1), open new research avenues, and prompt new inquiries. In this article, we review the structure and various biological functions of Ca(v)β, with both a historical perspective as well as an emphasis on recent advances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zafir Buraei
- Department of Biological Sciences, Columbia University, New York, NY 10027, USA
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Waeber C, Hargreaves R. Current and emerging therapies for migraine prevention and treatment. HANDBOOK OF CLINICAL NEUROLOGY 2010; 97:789-809. [PMID: 20816471 DOI: 10.1016/s0072-9752(10)97065-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
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Zamponi GW, Lory P, Perez-Reyes E. Role of voltage-gated calcium channels in epilepsy. Pflugers Arch 2009; 460:395-403. [PMID: 20091047 DOI: 10.1007/s00424-009-0772-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 137] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2009] [Revised: 11/30/2009] [Accepted: 12/01/2009] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
It is well established that idiopathic generalized epilepsies (IGEs) show a polygenic origin and may arise from dysfunction of various types of voltage- and ligand-gated ion channels. There is an increasing body of literature implicating both high- and low-voltage-activated (HVA and LVA) calcium channels and their ancillary subunits in IGEs. Cav2.1 (P/Q-type) calcium channels control synaptic transmission at presynaptic nerve terminals, and mutations in the gene encoding the Cav2.1 alpha1 subunit (CACNA1A) have been linked to absence seizures in both humans and rodents. Similarly, mutations and loss of function mutations in ancillary HVA calcium channel subunits known to co-assemble with Cav2.1 result in IGE phenotypes in mice. It is important to note that in all these mouse models with mutations in HVA subunits, there is a compensatory increase in thalamic LVA currents which likely leads to the seizure phenotype. In fact, gain-of-function mutations have been identified in Cav3.2 (an LVA or T-type calcium channel encoded by the CACNA1H gene) in patients with congenital forms of IGEs, consistent with increased excitability of neurons as a result of enhanced T-type channel function. In this paper, we provide a broad overview of the roles of voltage-gated calcium channels, their mutations, and how they might contribute to the river that terminates in epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerald W Zamponi
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, T2N 4N1, Canada
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Cope DW, Di Giovanni G, Fyson SJ, Orbán G, Errington AC, Lőrincz ML, Gould TM, Carter DA, Crunelli V. Enhanced tonic GABAA inhibition in typical absence epilepsy. Nat Med 2009; 15:1392-8. [PMID: 19966779 PMCID: PMC2824149 DOI: 10.1038/nm.2058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 317] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2008] [Accepted: 10/15/2009] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
The cellular mechanisms underlying typical absence seizures, which characterize various idiopathic generalized epilepsies, are not fully understood, but impaired gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)-ergic inhibition remains an attractive hypothesis. In contrast, we show here that extrasynaptic GABA(A) receptor-dependent 'tonic' inhibition is increased in thalamocortical neurons from diverse genetic and pharmacological models of absence seizures. Increased tonic inhibition is due to compromised GABA uptake by the GABA transporter GAT-1 in the genetic models tested, and GAT-1 is crucial in governing seizure genesis. Extrasynaptic GABA(A) receptors are a requirement for seizures in two of the best characterized models of absence epilepsy, and the selective activation of thalamic extrasynaptic GABA(A) receptors is sufficient to elicit both electrographic and behavioral correlates of seizures in normal rats. These results identify an apparently common cellular pathology in typical absence seizures that may have epileptogenic importance and highlight potential therapeutic targets for the treatment of absence epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- David W. Cope
- School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Museum Avenue, Cardiff, CF10 3AX. UK
| | | | - Sarah J. Fyson
- School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Museum Avenue, Cardiff, CF10 3AX. UK
| | | | - Adam C. Errington
- School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Museum Avenue, Cardiff, CF10 3AX. UK
| | - Magor L. Lőrincz
- School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Museum Avenue, Cardiff, CF10 3AX. UK
| | - Timothy M. Gould
- School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Museum Avenue, Cardiff, CF10 3AX. UK
| | - David A. Carter
- School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Museum Avenue, Cardiff, CF10 3AX. UK
| | - Vincenzo Crunelli
- School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Museum Avenue, Cardiff, CF10 3AX. UK
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Interaction between Ca(v)2.1alpha (1) and CaMKII in Ca (v)2.1alpha (1) mutant mice, Rolling Nagoya. J Mol Neurosci 2009; 41:223-9. [PMID: 19609731 DOI: 10.1007/s12031-009-9216-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2009] [Accepted: 07/01/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
It has been reported earlier that interactions between Ca(v)2.1alpha(1) and calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII) in the presynaptic fraction and between the NMDA receptor subunit NR2B and CaMKII in the postsynaptic density (PSD) fraction are important for neuronal function. Ca(v)2.1alpha(1), CaMKII, and NR2B are predominantly expressed in the hippocampus. To examine the above interactions and CaMKII activity in the hippocampal presynapse and PSD of Rolling Nagoya mice carrying a mutation in Ca(v)2.1alpha(1) subunit, we performed immunoprecipitation and Western blot analyses. In the presynapse, the interaction between Ca(v)2.1alpha(1) and CaMKII and the phosphorylation of CaMKII (at Thr286) and its substrate Synapsin I (at Ser603) were decreased in mutant mice compared to wild-type mice. In the PSD, a similar pattern was observed for the interaction between NR2B and CaMKII and the phosphorylation of CaMKII (at Thr286) and its substrate AMPA receptor subunit glutamate receptor 1 (at Ser831) between mutant and wild-type mice. Our data indicate that disruption of the interaction between Ca(v)2.1alpha(1) and CaMKII may down-regulate presynaptic CaMKII activity and that Rolling Nagoya mice would be a useful model for examining presynaptic function.
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Weiergräber M, Henry M, Ho MS, Struck H, Hescheler J, Schneider T. Altered thalamocortical rhythmicity in Cav2.3-deficient mice. Mol Cell Neurosci 2008; 39:605-18. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mcn.2008.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2008] [Revised: 07/28/2008] [Accepted: 08/13/2008] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
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Xie M, Li X, Han J, Vogt DL, Wittemann S, Mark MD, Herlitze S. Facilitation versus depression in cultured hippocampal neurons determined by targeting of Ca2+ channel Cavbeta4 versus Cavbeta2 subunits to synaptic terminals. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2007; 178:489-502. [PMID: 17664337 PMCID: PMC2064847 DOI: 10.1083/jcb.200702072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Ca2+ channel β subunits determine the transport and physiological properties of high voltage–activated Ca2+ channel complexes. Our analysis of the distribution of the Cavβ subunit family members in hippocampal neurons correlates their synaptic distribution with their involvement in transmitter release. We find that exogenously expressed Cavβ4b and Cavβ2a subunits distribute in clusters and localize to synapses, whereas Cavβ1b and Cavβ3 are homogenously distributed. According to their localization, Cavβ2a and Cavβ4b subunits modulate the synaptic plasticity of autaptic hippocampal neurons (i.e., Cavβ2a induces depression, whereas Cavβ4b induces paired-pulse facilitation [PPF] followed by synaptic depression during longer stimuli trains). The induction of PPF by Cavβ4b correlates with a reduction in the release probability and cooperativity of the transmitter release. These results suggest that Cavβ subunits determine the gating properties of the presynaptic Ca2+ channels within the presynaptic terminal in a subunit-specific manner and may be involved in organization of the Ca2+ channel relative to the release machinery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mian Xie
- Department of Neurosciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
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40
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Gamma-band deficiency and abnormal thalamocortical activity in P/Q-type channel mutant mice. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2007; 104:17819-24. [PMID: 17968008 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.0707945104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Thalamocortical in vivo and in vitro function was studied in mice lacking P/Q-type calcium channels (Cav2.1), in which N-type calcium channels (Cav2.2) supported central synaptic transmission. Unexpectedly, in vitro patch recordings from thalamic neurons demonstrated no gamma-band subthreshold oscillation, and voltage-sensitive dye imaging demonstrated an absence of cortical gamma-band-dependent columnar activation involving cortical inhibitory interneuron activity. In vivo electroencephalogram recordings showed persistent absence status and a dramatic reduction of gamma-band activity. Pharmacological block of T-type calcium channels (Cav3), although not noticeably affecting normal control animals, left the knockout mice in a coma-like state. Hence, although N-type calcium channels can rescue P/Q-dependent synaptic transmission, P/Q calcium channels are essential in the generation of gamma-band activity and resultant cognitive function.
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Erickson MA, Haburćák M, Smukler L, Dunlap K. Altered functional expression of Purkinje cell calcium channels precedes motor dysfunction in tottering mice. Neuroscience 2007; 150:547-55. [PMID: 18023294 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2007.09.052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2007] [Revised: 09/21/2007] [Accepted: 10/01/2007] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
In tottering mice, a point mutation in the gene encoding P-type (Ca(v)2.1) voltage-gated calcium channels results in ataxia, absence epilepsy, and motor dystonia that appear 3-4 weeks postnatally. The aberrant motor behaviors have been linked to cerebellar dysfunction, and adult Purkinje cells (PCs) of tottering mice exhibit calcium-dependent changes in gene transcription suggestive of altered calcium homeostasis. In an attempt to identify early postnatal events important for the development of the behavioral phenotype, we examined calcium channel expression in cerebellar PCs from postnatal days 6-15 (P6-15). Whole cell recording was combined with selective calcium channel antagonists to allow discrimination of the various voltage-activated calcium channels types; early age-dependent differences between tottering and wild-type PCs were found. Wild-type PCs experienced a steady increase in P current density over this period, resulting in a twofold change by P15. In tottering, by contrast, P current density remained unchanged from P6-8 and was only 25% of the wild-type level by P8. A developmental delay in functional expression was implicated in this early deficit, since ensuing gains over the subsequent week brought tottering P current density close to the wild-type level by P15. At this age, tottering PCs also exhibited a 2.2-fold higher L-type calcium current density than that expressed by wild-type PCs. Increases in N current were apparent at some ages, most strikingly within a subset of tottering PCs at P15. Functional R- and T-type calcium current densities were equivalent to wild-type levels at all ages. We conclude that the tottering mutation brings about selective changes in functional calcium channel expression 1 to 2 weeks prior to the appearance of the behavioral deficits, raising the possibility that they represent an early, primary event along the path to motor dysfunction in tottering.
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Affiliation(s)
- M A Erickson
- Department of Neuroscience, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02111, USA
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Waeber C. Targeting neuronal hyperexcitability for antimigraine drug development. FUTURE NEUROLOGY 2007. [DOI: 10.2217/14796708.2.2.179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Migraine is among the most prevalent neurological disorders worldwide, afflicting up to 16% of the population. Because it mostly affects patients between the most productive ages of 25 and 50 years, migraine costs employers more than US$13 billion per year in reduced productivity and missed days. It is therefore important to prevent and treat migraine attacks. Triptans were introduced in the early 1990s and effectively alleviate symptoms in most patients. Their success was based on the existence of the operational hypothesis implicating the trigemino-vascular system. Prophylactic medications have been available since beta-blockers, followed by agents belonging to other therapeutic classes. Most of them were found serendipitously to be effective. However, progress in the development of preventative agents has been hampered by the lack of animal models mimicking the early events of migraine pathophysiology. This review will examine how a recent theory on the origin of migraine attacks is likely to lead to the development of new animal models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Waeber
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Department of Radiology, CNY149 Room 6403, 149 13th Street, Charlestown, MA 02129, USA
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Abstract
The regulation of presynaptic, voltage-gated calcium channels by activation of heptahelical G protein-coupled receptors exerts a crucial influence on presynaptic calcium entry and hence on neurotransmitter release. Receptor activation subjects presynaptic N- and P/Q-type calcium channels to a rapid, membrane-delimited inhibition-mediated by direct, voltage-dependent interactions between G protein betagamma subunits and the channels-and to a slower, voltage-independent modulation involving soluble second messenger molecules. In turn, the direct inhibition of the channels is regulated as a function of many factors, including channel subtype, ancillary calcium channel subunits, and the types of G proteins and G protein regulatory factors involved. Twenty-five years after this mode of physiological regulation was first described, we review the investigations that have led to our current understanding of its molecular mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- H William Tedford
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
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Kaja S, Todorov B, van de Ven RCG, Ferrari MD, Frants RR, van den Maagdenberg AMJM, Plomp JJ. Redundancy of Cav2.1 channel accessory subunits in transmitter release at the mouse neuromuscular junction. Brain Res 2007; 1143:92-101. [PMID: 17320843 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2007.01.063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2006] [Revised: 01/15/2007] [Accepted: 01/18/2007] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Ca(v)2.1 (P/Q-type) channels possess a voltage-sensitive pore-forming alpha(1) subunit that can associate with the accessory subunits alpha(2)delta, beta and gamma. The primary role of Ca(v)2.1 channels is to mediate transmitter release from nerve terminals both in the central and peripheral nervous system. Whole-cell voltage-clamp studies in in vitro expression systems have indicated that accessory channel subunits can have diverse modulatory effects on membrane expression and biophysical properties of Ca(v)2.1 channels. However, there is only limited knowledge on whether similar modulation also occurs in the specific presynaptic environment in vivo and, hence, whether accessory subunits influence neurotransmitter release. Ducky, lethargic and stargazer are mutant mice that lack functional alpha(2)delta-2, beta(4) and gamma(2) accessory Ca(v) channel subunits, respectively. The neuromuscular junction (NMJ) is a peripheral synapse, where transmitter release is governed exclusively by Ca(v)2.1 channels, and which can be characterized electrophysiologically with relative experimental ease. In order to investigate a possible synaptic influence of accessory subunits in detail, we electrophysiologically measured acetylcholine (ACh) release at NMJs of these three mutants. Surprisingly, we did not find any changes compared to wild-type littermates, other than a small reduction (25%) of evoked ACh release at ducky NMJs. This effect is most likely due to the approximately 40% reduced synapse size, associated with the reduced size of ducky mice, rather than resulting directly from reduced Ca(v)2.1 channel function due to alpha(2)delta-2 absence. We conclude that alpha(2)delta-2, beta(4), and gamma(2) accessory subunits are redundant for the transmitter release-mediating function of presynaptic Ca(v)2.1 channels at the mouse NMJ.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Kaja
- Department of Neurology, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, The Netherlands
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Weiss N, Tadmouri A, Mikati M, Ronjat M, De Waard M. Importance of voltage-dependent inactivation in N-type calcium channel regulation by G-proteins. Pflugers Arch 2006; 454:115-29. [PMID: 17171365 PMCID: PMC2703660 DOI: 10.1007/s00424-006-0184-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2006] [Accepted: 10/29/2006] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Direct regulation of N-type calcium channels by G-proteins is essential to control neuronal excitability and neurotransmitter release. Binding of the G(betagamma) dimer directly onto the channel is characterized by a marked current inhibition ("ON" effect), whereas the pore opening- and time-dependent dissociation of this complex from the channel produce a characteristic set of biophysical modifications ("OFF" effects). Although G-protein dissociation is linked to channel opening, the contribution of channel inactivation to G-protein regulation has been poorly studied. Here, the role of channel inactivation was assessed by examining time-dependent G-protein de-inhibition of Ca(v)2.2 channels in the presence of various inactivation-altering beta subunit constructs. G-protein activation was produced via mu-opioid receptor activation using the DAMGO agonist. Whereas the "ON" effect of G-protein regulation is independent of the type of beta subunit, the "OFF" effects were critically affected by channel inactivation. Channel inactivation acts as a synergistic factor to channel activation for the speed of G-protein dissociation. However, fast inactivating channels also reduce the temporal window of opportunity for G-protein dissociation, resulting in a reduced extent of current recovery, whereas slow inactivating channels undergo a far more complete recovery from inhibition. Taken together, these results provide novel insights on the role of channel inactivation in N-type channel regulation by G-proteins and contribute to the understanding of the physiological consequence of channel inactivation in the modulation of synaptic activity by G-protein coupled receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Norbert Weiss
- Canaux calciques , fonctions et pathologies
INSERM : U607CEA : DSV/IRTSVUniversité Joseph Fourier - Grenoble I17, rue des martyrs 38054 Grenoble,FR
| | - Abir Tadmouri
- Canaux calciques , fonctions et pathologies
INSERM : U607CEA : DSV/IRTSVUniversité Joseph Fourier - Grenoble I17, rue des martyrs 38054 Grenoble,FR
| | - Mohamad Mikati
- Department of Pediatrics
American University of Beirut Medical CenterBeyrouth,LB
| | - Michel Ronjat
- Canaux calciques , fonctions et pathologies
INSERM : U607CEA : DSV/IRTSVUniversité Joseph Fourier - Grenoble I17, rue des martyrs 38054 Grenoble,FR
| | - Michel De Waard
- Canaux calciques , fonctions et pathologies
INSERM : U607CEA : DSV/IRTSVUniversité Joseph Fourier - Grenoble I17, rue des martyrs 38054 Grenoble,FR
- * Correspondence should be adressed to: Michel De Waard
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McKeown L, Robinson P, Jones OT. Molecular basis of inherited calcium channelopathies: role of mutations in pore-forming subunits. Acta Pharmacol Sin 2006; 27:799-812. [PMID: 16787562 DOI: 10.1111/j.1745-7254.2006.00394.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The pore-forming alpha subunits of voltage-gated calcium channels contain the essential biophysical machinery that underlies calcium influx in response to cell depolarization. In combination with requisite auxiliary subunits, these pore subunits form calcium channel complexes that are pivotal to the physiology and pharmacology of diverse cells ranging from sperm to neurons. Not surprisingly, mutations in the pore subunits generate diverse pathologies, termed channelopathies, that range from failures in excitation-contraction coupling to night blindness. Over the last decade, major insights into the mechanisms of pathogenesis have been derived from animals showing spontaneous or induced mutations. In parallel, there has been considerable growth in our understanding of the workings of voltage-gated ion channels from a structure-function, regulation and cell biology perspective. Here we document our current understanding of the mutations underlying channelopathies involving the voltage-gated calcium channel alpha subunits in humans and other species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lynn McKeown
- Faculty of Life Sciences, the University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
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Abstract
The idiopathic generalized epilepsies encompass a class of epileptic seizure types that exhibit a polygenic and heritable etiology. Advances in molecular biology and genetics have implicated defects in certain types of voltage-gated calcium channels and their ancillary subunits as important players in this form of epilepsy. Both T-type and P/Q-type channels appear to mediate important contributions to seizure genesis, modulation of network activity, and genetic seizure susceptibility. Here, we provide a comprehensive overview of the roles of these channels and associated subunits in normal and pathological brain activity within the context of idiopathic generalized epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Houman Khosravani
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Canada
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van de Bovenkamp-Janssen MC, van der Kloet JC, van Luijtelaar G, Roubos EW. NMDA-NR1 and AMPA-GluR4 receptor subunit immunoreactivities in the absence epileptic WAG/Rij rat. Epilepsy Res 2006; 69:119-28. [PMID: 16487682 DOI: 10.1016/j.eplepsyres.2006.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2005] [Revised: 01/03/2006] [Accepted: 01/16/2006] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
From an age of 2-3 months onwards, the WAG/Rij rat, a genetic model for absence epilepsy, develops spike-wave discharges (SWD). SWD start in the peri-oral somatosensory cortex (POsc), whereas the rostral reticular thalamic nucleus (rRTN) contributes to synchronizing the thalamo-cortical oscillations. We hypothesize that N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) and alpha-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoazolepropionic acid (AMPA) receptors in the POsc and rRTN are involved in, respectively, the initiation and synchronization of SWD activity. As a first step to test this hypothesis, 3 months old non-epileptic and 6 months old absence epileptic WAG/Rij rats were compared with age-matched non-epileptic ACI control rats. The presence of NMDA and AMPA receptors was assessed by quantifying immunostaining for the NMDA-NR1 subunit and the AMPA-GluR4 subunit, respectively. In the POsc, WAG/Rij rats of both ages showed less NMDA-NR1 (-14.7%) and AMPA-GluR4 (-8.7%) subunit staining than ACI rats. From 3 to 6 months, AMPA-GluR4 subunit staining more strongly increased in the rRTN of WAG/Rij rats than of ACI rats. Further studies should support our assumption that in the POsc of the WAG/Rij rat, SWD start as a result of reduced NMDA- and AMPA-mediated glutamatergic stimulation, and that AMPA-GluR4 containing neurons in the rRTN of this rat strain contribute to synchronization of thalamic and cortical neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maartje C van de Bovenkamp-Janssen
- Department of Cellular Animal Physiology, Institute for Neuroscience, Radboud University Nijmegen, Toernooiveld 1, 6525 ED Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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Sasaki S, Huda K, Inoue T, Miyata M, Imoto K. Impaired feedforward inhibition of the thalamocortical projection in epileptic Ca2+ channel mutant mice, tottering. J Neurosci 2006; 26:3056-65. [PMID: 16540584 PMCID: PMC6673963 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.5422-05.2006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The tottering (tg) mice have a mutation in the CaV2.1 (P/Q-type) voltage-dependent Ca2+ channel alpha(1)2.1 subunit gene. tg mice show not only cerebellar ataxia but also absence epilepsy, which begins at approximately 3 weeks of age and persists throughout life. Similarities in EEG and sensitivity to antiepileptic drugs suggest that tg mice are a good model for human absence epilepsy. Although imbalance between excitatory and inhibitory activity in the thalamocortical network is thought to contribute to the pathogenesis of absence epilepsy, the effect of the mutation on thalamocortical synaptic responses remains unknown. Here we showed imbalanced impairment of inhibitory synaptic responses in tg mice using brain slice preparations. Somatosensory thalamocortical projection makes not only monosynaptic glutamatergic connections but also disynaptic GABAergic connections, which mediate feedforward inhibition, onto layer IV neurons. In tg mice, IPSC amplitudes recorded from layer IV pyramidal cells of the somatosensory cortex in response to thalamic stimulation became disproportionately reduced compared with EPSC amplitudes at later developmental stages (postnatal days 21-30). Similar results were obtained by local stimulation of layer IV pyramidal neurons. However, IPSC reduction was not seen in layer V pyramidal neurons of epileptic tg mice or in layer IV pyramidal neurons of younger tg mice before the onset of epilepsy (postnatal days 14-16). These results showed that the feedforward inhibition from the thalamus to layer IV neurons of the somatosensory cortex was severely impaired in tg mice and that the impairment of the inhibitory synaptic transmission was correlated to the onset of absence epilepsy.
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Etheredge JA, Murchison D, Abbott LC, Griffith WH. Functional compensation by other voltage-gated Ca2+ channels in mouse basal forebrain neurons with Ca(V)2.1 mutations. Brain Res 2005; 1140:105-19. [PMID: 16364258 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2005.11.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2005] [Revised: 11/10/2005] [Accepted: 11/14/2005] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Tottering (tg/tg) and leaner (tg(la)/tg(la)) mutant mice exhibit distinct mutations in the gene encoding the voltage-activated Ca(2+) channel alpha(1A) subunit (CACNA1A), the pore-forming subunit of the Ca(V)2.1 (P/Q type) Ca(2+) channels. These mice exhibit absence seizures and deficiencies in motor control and other functions. Previous work in cerebellar Purkinje neurons has shown that these mutations cause dramatic reductions in calcium channel function. Because Purkinje cell somata primarily express the Ca(V)2.1 channels, the general decrease in Ca(V)2.1 channel function is observed as a profound decrease in whole-cell current. In contrast to Purkinje cells, basal forebrain (BF) neurons express all of the Ca(2+) channel alpha(1) subunits, with Ca(V)2.1 contributing approximately 30% to the whole-cell current in wild-type (+/+) mice. Here, we show that whole-cell Ba(2+) current densities in BF neurons are not reduced in the mutant genotypes despite a reduction in the Ca(V)2.1 contribution. By blocking the different Ca(2+) channel subtypes with specific pharmacological agents, we found a significant increase in the proportion of Ca(V)1 Ca(2+) current in mutant phenotypes. There was no change in tissue mRNA expression of calcium channel subtypes Ca(V)2.1, Ca(V)2.2, Ca(V)1.2, Ca(V)1.3, and Ca(V)2.3 in the tottering and leaner mutant mice. These results suggest that Ca(V)1 channels may functionally upregulate to compensate for reduced Ca(V)2.1 function in the mutants without an increase in Ca(v)1 message. Single-cell reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) experiments in a subset of sampled neurons revealed that approximately 90% of the cells could be considered cholinergic based on choline acetyltransferase (ChAT) mRNA expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason A Etheredge
- Department of Medical Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Medicine, Reynolds Medical Science Building, Texas A&M University System Health Science Center, 1114-TAMU, College Station, TX 77843-1114, USA
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