BDNF modulation of NMDA receptors is activity dependent

Indole-3-Carbinol and Its Derivatives as Neuroprotective Modulators

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and its downstream tropomyosin receptor kinase B (TrkB) signaling pathway play pivotal roles in the resilience and action of antidepressant drugs, making them prominent targets in psychiatric research. Oxidative stress (OS) contributes to various neurological disorders, including neurodegenerative diseases, stroke, and mental illnesses, and exacerbates the aging process. The nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2)-antioxidant responsive element (ARE) serves as the primary cellular defense mechanism against OS-induced brain damage. Thus, Nrf2 activation may confer endogenous neuroprotection against OS-related cellular damage; notably, the TrkB/phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (Akt) pathway, stimulated by BDNF-dependent TrkB signaling, activates Nrf2 and promotes its nuclear translocation. However, insufficient neurotrophin support often leads to the downregulation of the TrkB signaling pathway in brain diseases. Thus, targeting TrkB activation and the Nrf2-ARE system is a promising therapeutic strategy for treating neurodegenerative diseases. Phytochemicals, including indole-3-carbinol (I3C) and its metabolite, diindolylmethane (DIM), exhibit neuroprotective effects through BDNF's mimetic activity; Akt phosphorylation is induced, and the antioxidant defense mechanism is activated by blocking the Nrf2-kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1) complex. This review emphasizes the therapeutic potential of I3C and its derivatives for concurrently activating neuronal defense mechanisms in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.

Retinoic acid-gated BDNF synthesis in neuronal dendrites drives presynaptic homeostatic plasticity

Homeostatic synaptic plasticity is a non-Hebbian synaptic mechanism that adjusts synaptic strength to maintain network stability while achieving optimal information processing. Among the molecular mediators shown to regulate this form of plasticity, synaptic signaling through retinoic acid (RA) and its receptor, RARα, has been shown to be critically involved in the homeostatic adjustment of synaptic transmission in both hippocampus and sensory cortices. In this study, we explore the molecular mechanism through which postsynaptic RA and RARα regulates presynaptic neurotransmitter release during prolonged synaptic inactivity at mouse glutamatertic synapses. We show that RARα binds to a subset of dendritically sorted brain-derived neurotrophic factor (Bdnf) mRNA splice isoforms and represses their translation. The RA-mediated translational de-repression of postsynaptic BDNF results in the retrograde activation of presynaptic tropomyosin receptor kinase B (TrkB) receptors, facilitating presynaptic homeostatic compensation through enhanced presynaptic release. Together, our study illustrates an RA-mediated retrograde synaptic signaling pathway through which postsynaptic protein synthesis during synaptic inactivity drives compensatory changes at the presynaptic site.

Developmental neurotoxicity of acrylamide and its metabolite glycidamide in a human mixed culture of neurons and astrocytes undergoing differentiation in concentrations relevant for human exposure

Neural stem cells (NSCs) derived from human induced pluripotent stem cells were used to investigate effects of exposure to the food contaminant acrylamide (AA) and its main metabolite glycidamide (GA) on key neurodevelopmental processes. Diet is an important source of human AA exposure for pregnant women, and AA is known to pass the placenta and the newborn may also be exposed through breast feeding after birth. The NSCs were exposed to AA and GA (1 ×10^-8 - 3 ×10^-3 M) under 7 days of proliferation and up to 28 days of differentiation towards a mixed culture of neurons and astrocytes. Effects on cell viability was measured using Alamar Blue™ cell viability assay, alterations in gene expression were assessed using real time PCR and RNA sequencing, and protein levels were quantified using immunocytochemistry and high content imaging. Effects of AA and GA on neurodevelopmental processes were evaluated using endpoints linked to common key events identified in the existing developmental neurotoxicity adverse outcome pathways (AOPs). Our results suggest that AA and GA at low concentrations (1 ×10^-7 - 1 ×10^-8 M) increased cell viability and markers of proliferation both in proliferating NSCs (7 days) and in maturing neurons after 14-28 days of differentiation. IC₅₀ for cell death of AA and GA was 5.2 × 10^-3 M and 5.8 × 10^-4 M, respectively, showing about ten times higher potency for GA. Increased expression of brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) concomitant with decreased synaptogenesis were observed for GA exposure (10^-7 M) only at later differentiation stages, and an increased number of astrocytes (up to 3-fold) at 14 and 21 days of differentiation. Also, AA exposure gave tendency towards decreased differentiation (increased percent Nestin positive cells). After 28 days, neurite branch points and number of neurites per neuron measured by microtubule-associated protein 2 (Map2) staining decreased, while the same neurite features measured by βIII-Tubulin increased, indicating perturbation of neuronal differentiation and maturation.

Therapeutic acute intermittent hypoxia: A translational roadmap for spinal cord injury and neuromuscular disease

We review progress towards greater mechanistic understanding and clinical translation of a strategy to improve respiratory and non-respiratory motor function in people with neuromuscular disorders, therapeutic acute intermittent hypoxia (tAIH). In 2016 and 2020, workshops to create and update a "road map to clinical translation" were held to help guide future research and development of tAIH to restore movement in people living with chronic, incomplete spinal cord injuries. After briefly discussing the pioneering, non-targeted basic research inspiring this novel therapeutic approach, we then summarize workshop recommendations, emphasizing critical knowledge gaps, priorities for future research effort, and steps needed to accelerate progress as we evaluate the potential of tAIH for routine clinical use. Highlighted areas include: 1) greater mechanistic understanding, particularly in non-respiratory motor systems; 2) optimization of tAIH protocols to maximize benefits; 3) identification of combinatorial treatments that amplify plasticity or remove plasticity constraints, including task-specific training; 4) identification of biomarkers for individuals most/least likely to benefit from tAIH; 5) assessment of long-term tAIH safety; and 6) development of a simple, safe and effective device to administer tAIH in clinical and home settings. Finally, we update ongoing clinical trials and recent investigations of tAIH in SCI and other clinical disorders that compromise motor function, including ALS, multiple sclerosis, and stroke.

ProspeCtive study to evaluate efficacy, safety and tOlerability of dietary supplemeNT of Curcumin (BCM95) in subjects with Active relapsing MultIple Sclerosis treated with subcutaNeous Interferon beta 1a 44 mcg TIW (CONTAIN): A randomized, controlled trial

BACKGROUND

multiple sclerosis (MS) is a complex disease sustained by several pathogenic mechanisms. As such, combination therapy strategies, targeting a range of disease mechanisms, might represent the ideal therapeutic approach. Here we investigated the efficacy of curcumin, a naturally occurring poly-phenolic phytochemical with potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, in subjects under treatment with IFN β-1a, to test the effects of this combination therapy on clinical and MRI parameters of inflammation and neurodegeneration in relapsing MS (RMS).

METHODS

eighty active RMS were prospectively enrolled, randomized (1:1) to either the IFN-curcumin or the IFN-placebo group and followed up longitudinally with clinical and MRI assessments for 24 months. Primary endpoint was the efficacy of curcumin versus placebo as add-on therapy on new/enlarging T2 lesions in RMS subjects under treatment with subcutaneous IFN β-1a 44 mcg TIW. Efficacy on clinical parameters (relapses and disability progression), other MRI parameters of inflammation (T1 Gd-enhancing lesions, combined unique active-CUA lesions) and neurodegeneration (T1-hypointense lesions, grey matter loss and white matter microstructural damage) as well as safety and tolerability of curcumin were explored as secondary endpoints.

RESULTS

ten subjects dropped out from the study by month 12 (6 in the IFN-curcumin group and 4 in the IFN-placebo group), and 27 by month 24 (11 in the IFN-curcumin group and 16 in the IFN-placebo group). Although no between-group difference was present in terms of proportion of subjects free from new/enlarging T2 lesions, a lower proportion of patients with CUA lesions was noted at month 12 in the IFN-curcumin group in comparison with the IFN-placebo group (7.5% vs 17.5%, χ² test p= 0.0167). This result was not confirmed at month 24. The statistical analysis failed to reveal any difference between the two treatment groups - IFN-curcumin and IFN-placebo - in terms of relapses, disability progression, other MRI metrics of inflammation and MRI changes suggestive of ongoing neurodegeneration. No difference in the rate and nature of adverse events was observed between the two treatment groups.

CONCLUSION

Although the study drop-out rate was too high to allow definite conclusions, our findings suggest that curcumin might add to IFN β-1a efficacy on radiological signs of inflammation in MS, while it did not seem to exert any neuroprotective effect as assessed by clinical and MRI parameters. (NCT01514370).

Exposure to human relevant mixtures of halogenated persistent organic pollutants (POPs) alters neurodevelopmental processes in human neural stem cells undergoing differentiation

Halogenated persistent organic pollutants (POPs) like perfluorinated alkylated substances (PFASs), brominated flame retardants (BFRs), organochlorine pesticides and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are known to cause cancer, immunotoxicity, neurotoxicity and interfere with reproduction and development. Concerns have been raised about the impact of POPs upon brain development and possibly neurodevelopmental disorders. The developing brain is a particularly vulnerable organ due to dynamic and complex neurodevelopmental processes occurring early in life. However, very few studies have reported on the effects of POP mixtures at human relevant exposures, and their impact on key neurodevelopmental processes using human in vitro test systems. Aiming to reduce this knowledge gap, we exposed mixed neuronal/glial cultures differentiated from neural stem cells (NSCs) derived from human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) to reconstructed mixtures of 29 different POPs using concentrations comparable to Scandinavian human blood levels. Effects of the POP mixtures on neuronal proliferation, differentiation and synaptogenesis were evaluated using in vitro assays anchored to common key events identified in the existing developmental neurotoxicity (DNT) adverse outcome pathways (AOPs). The present study showed that mixtures of POPs (in particular brominated and chlorinated compounds) at human relevant concentrations increased proliferation of NSCs and decreased synapse number. Based on a mathematical modelling, synaptogenesis and neurite outgrowth seem to be the most sensitive DNT in vitro endpoints. Our results indicate that prenatal exposure to POPs may affect human brain development, potentially contributing to recently observed learning and memory deficits in children.

Antidepressant Actions of Ketamine: Potential Role of L-Type Calcium Channels

Recently, the United States Food and Drug Administration approved esketamine, the S-enantiomer of ketamine, as a fast-acting therapeutic drug for treatment-resistant depression. Although ketamine is known as an N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonist, the underlying mechanisms of how it elicits an antidepressant effect, specifically at subanesthetic doses, are not clear and remain an advancing field of research interest. On the other hand, high-dose (more than the anesthetic dose) ketamine-induced neurotoxicity in animal models has been reported. There has been progress in understanding the potential pathways involved in ketamine-induced antidepressant effects, some of which include NMDA-receptor antagonism, modulation of voltage-gated calcium channels, and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) signaling. Often these pathways have been shown to be linked. Voltage-gated L-type calcium channels have been shown to mediate the rapid-acting antidepressant effects of ketamine, especially involving induction of BDNF synthesis downstream, while BDNF deficiency decreases the expression of L-type calcium channels. This review focuses on the reported studies linking ketamine's rapid-acting antidepressant actions to L-type calcium channels with an objective to present a perspective on the importance of the modulation of intracellular calcium in mediating the effects of subanesthetic (antidepressant) versus high-dose ketamine (anesthetic and potential neurotoxicant), the latter having the ability to reduce intracellular calcium by blocking the calcium-permeable NMDA receptors, which is implicated in potential neurotoxicity.

Neuronal brain-derived neurotrophic factor manipulates microglial dynamics

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a main member of the neurotrophin family that is active in the brain, supports neuronal survival and growth. Microglial BDNF affects both the structural and functional properties of neurons. In contrast, whether and how neuronal BDNF affects microglial dynamics remain largely undetermined. Here, we examined the effects of BDNF on the properties of microglia in the CA3 region of the hippocampus. We chose this site because the axonal boutons of hippocampal mossy fibers, which are mostly formed in the CA3 region, contain the highest levels of BDNF in the rodent brain. We transfected mouse dentate granule cells with an adeno-associated virus that encodes both a BDNF short hairpin RNA (shRNA) and red fluorescent protein to examine the effects of mossy fiber-derived BDNF on microglia. Based on immunohistochemistry, BDNF knockdown with an shRNA resulted in an increase in microglial density in the mossy fiber pathway and increased engulfment of mossy fiber axons by microglia. In addition, we performed time-lapse imaging of microglial processes in hippocampal slice cultures to examine the effects of BDNF on microglial motility. Time-lapse imaging revealed increases in the motility of microglial processes and the engulfment of mossy fiber synapses by microglia when BDNF signaling was pharmacologically blocked. Thus, neuronal BDNF prevents microglia from engulfing mossy fiber synapses in the hippocampus.

Acute intermittent hypoxia boosts spinal plasticity in humans with tetraplegia

Paired corticospinal-motoneuronal stimulation (PCMS) elicits spinal synaptic plasticity in humans with chronic incomplete cervical spinal cord injury (SCI). Here, we examined whether PCMS-induced plasticity could be potentiated by acute intermittent hypoxia (AIH), a treatment also known to induce spinal synaptic plasticity in humans with chronic incomplete cervical SCI. During PCMS, we used 180 pairs of stimuli where corticospinal volleys evoked by transcranial magnetic stimulation over the hand representation of the primary motor cortex were timed to arrive at corticospinal-motoneuronal synapses of the first dorsal interosseous (FDI) muscle ~1-2 ms before the arrival of antidromic potentials elicited in motoneurons by electrical stimulation of the ulnar nerve. During AIH, participants were exposed to brief alternating episodes of hypoxic inspired gas (1 min episodes of 9% O₂) and room air (1 min episodes of 20.9% O₂). We examined corticospinal function by measuring motor evoked potentials (MEPs) elicited by cortical and subcortical stimulation of corticospinal axons and voluntary motor output in the FDI muscle before and after 30 min of PCMS combined with AIH (PCMS+AIH) or sham AIH (PCMS+sham-AIH). The amplitude of MEPs evoked by magnetic and electrical stimulation increased after both protocols, but most after PCMS+AIH, consistent with the hypothesis that their combined effects arise from spinal plasticity. Both protocols increased electromyographic activity in the FDI muscle to a similar extent. Thus, PCMS effects on spinal synapses of hand motoneurons can be potentiated by AIH. The possibility of different thresholds for physiological vs behavioral gains needs to be considered during combinatorial treatments.

Cognitive Impact of Calorie Restriction: A Narrative Review

The impairment of cognitive function can cause substantial emotional and financial burdens. A recent global increasing trend in cognitive impairment and associated disorders has been observed, which will continue to grow as the population ages rapidly. As a nonpharmaceutical approach, calorie restriction (CR) has received extensive research interests due to its health benefits, including maintaining cognitive function. In this narrative review, we first briefly introduce the role of cognitive function in activities of daily living and CR as a part of healthy lifestyle behaviors to protect against cognitive decline. Second, we present results from human studies demonstrating that CR might be beneficial for improving age-related cognitive decline and cognitive impairment in the clinical population such as obesity and type 2 diabetes. Third, the potential mechanisms regarding the protective effects of CR on cognition are discussed. Fourth, specific suggestions are highlighted to be considered in future human studies. Overall, although there are few data available from human studies, CR appears to be beneficial for cognitive protection for both healthy and clinical populations. Further scientific investigations are needed before a firm conclusion can be made.

Intensity-dependent effects of consecutive treadmill exercise on spatial learning and memory through the p-CREB/BDNF/NMDAR signaling in hippocampus

Exercise is the most recommended non-pharmacological intervention to improve neurocognitive functions under physiological and pathological conditions. However, it remains to be elucidated concerning the influence and the underlying neurological molecular mechanism of different exercise intensity on cognitive function. In this study, we aimed to explore the effects of exercise intensity on spatial learning and memory, as well as the regulation of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF)/p-CREB/NMDAR signal. In the research, low-intensity consecutive treadmill (LICT) and high-intensity consecutive treadmill (HICT) were implied to rats for 8 weeks. We found that the performances in the Morris water maze were improved in the LICT group, while reduced in the HICT group as compared with the sedentary rats. Moreover, the expression of BDNF mRNA, phosphorylation cAMP-response-element binding protein (p-CREB), mature BDNF (mBDNF), tropomyosin receptor kinase B (TrkB), tissue plasminogen activator (t-PA), and NR2B proteins was increased, whereas the expression of precursor BDNF (proBDNF) and pan-neurotrophin receptor 75 (p75NTR) proteins was decreased in the hippocampus of LICT group compared with the sedentary rats. On the contrary, the expression of proteins and mRNA aforementioned in the LICT group showed a reversed tendency in the hippocampus of HICT rats. These findings suggest that the consecutive low-intensity exercise and high-intensity exercise exert different effects on spatial learning and memory by oppositely regulating the mutual stimulation of p-CREB and BDNF mRNA feedback loop, as well as the t-PA/BDNF/NMDAR which is the post-translation cascades of BDNF signaling.

Cellular mechanisms and molecular signaling pathways in stress-induced anxiety, depression, and blood-brain barrier inflammation and leakage

Depression and anxiety are comorbid conditions in many neurological or psychopathological disorders. Stress is an underlying event that triggers development of anxiety and depressive-like behaviors. Recent experimental data indicate that anxiety and depressive-like behaviors occurring as a result of stressful situations can cause blood-brain barrier (BBB) dysfunction, which is characterized by inflammation and leakage. However, the underlying mechanisms are not completely understood. This paper sought to review recent experimental preclinical and clinical data that suggest possible molecular mechanisms involved in development of stress-induced anxiety and depression with associated BBB inflammation and leakage. Critical therapeutic targets and potential pharmacological candidates for treatment of stress-induced anxiety and depression with associated BBB dysfunctions are also discussed.

Noninvasive Brain Delivery and Efficacy of BDNF to Stimulate Neuroregeneration and Suppression of Disease Relapse in EAE Mice

The number of FDA-approved protein drugs (biologics), such as antibodies, antibody-drug conjugates, hormones, and enzymes, continues to grow at a rapid rate; most of these drugs are used to treat diseases of the peripheral body. Unfortunately, most of these biologics cannot be used to treat brain diseases such as Alzheimer's disease (AD), multiple sclerosis (MS), and brain tumors in a noninvasive manner due to their inability to permeate the blood-brain barrier (BBB). Therefore, there is a need to develop an effective method to deliver protein drugs into the brain. Here, we report a proof of concept to deliver a recombinant brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) to the brains of healthy and experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) mice via intravenous (iv) injections by co-administering BDNF with a BBB modulator (BBBM) peptide ADTC5. Western blot evaluations indicated that ADTC5 enhanced the brain delivery of BDNF in healthy SJL/elite mice compared to BDNF alone and triggered the phosphorylation of TrkB receptors in the brain. The EAE mice treated with BDNF + ADTC5 suppressed EAE relapse compared to those treated with BDNF alone, ADTC5 alone, or vehicle. We further demonstrated that brain delivery of BDNF induced neuroregeneration via visible activation of oligodendrocytes, remyelination, and ARC and EGR1 mRNA transcript upregulation. In summary, we have demonstrated that ADTC5 peptide modulates the BBB to permit noninvasive delivery of BDNF to exert its neuroregeneration activity in the brains of EAE mice.

Involvement of the synapse-specific zinc transporter ZnT3 in cadmium-induced hippocampal neurotoxicity

The present study examined the involvement of zinc (Zn)-transporters (ZnT3) in cadmium (Cd)-induced alterations of Zn homeostasis in rat hippocampal neurons. We treated primary rat hippocampal neurons for 24 or 48 hr with various concentrations of CdCl₂ (0, 0.5, 5, 10, 25, or 50 μM) and/or ZnCl ₂ (0, 10, 30, 50, 70, or 90 μM), using normal neuronal medium as control. By The CellTiter 96 ^® Aqueous One Solution Cell Proliferation Assay (MTS; Promega, Madison, WI) assay and immunohistochemistry for cell death markers, 10 and 25 μM of Cd were found to be noncytotoxic doses, and both 30 and 90 μM of Zn as the best concentrations for cell proliferation. We tested these selected doses. Cd, at concentrations of 10 or 25 μM (and depending on the absence or presence of Zn), decreased the percentage of surviving cells. Cd-induced neuronal death was either apoptotic or necrotic depending on dose, as indicated by 7-AAD and/or annexin V labeling. At the molecular level, Cd exposure induced a decrease in hippocampal brain-derived neurotrophic factor-tropomyosin receptor kinase B (BDNF-TrkB) and Erk1/2 signaling, a significant downregulation of the expression of learning- and memory-related receptors and synaptic proteins such as the NMDAR NR2A subunit and PSD-95, as well as the expression of the synapse-specific vesicular Zn transporter ZnT3 in cultured hippocampal neurons. Zn supplementation, especially at the 30 μM concentration, led to partial or total protection against Cd neurotoxicity both with respect to the number of apoptotic cells and the expression of several genes. Interestingly, after knockdown of ZnT3 by small interfering RNA transfection, we did not find the restoration of the expression of this gene following Zn supplementation at 30 μM concentration. These data indicate the involvement of ZnT3 in the mechanism of Cd-induced hippocampal neurotoxicity.

Interactions of Glutamatergic Neurotransmission and Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor in the Regulation of Behaviors after Nicotine Administration

Nicotine causes tobacco dependence, which may result in fatal respiratory diseases. The striatum is a key structure of forebrain basal nuclei associated with nicotine dependence. In the striatum, glutamate release is increased when α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptors expressed in the glutamatergic terminals are exposed to nicotine, and over-stimulates glutamate receptors in gamma amino-butyric acid (GABA)ergic neurons. These receptor over-stimulations in turn potentiate GABAergic outputs to forebrain basal nuclei and contribute to the increase in psychomotor behaviors associated with nicotine dependence. In parallel with glutamate increases, nicotine exposure elevates brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) release through anterograde and retrograde targeting of the synapses of glutamatergic terminals and GABAergic neurons. This article reviews nicotine-exposure induced elevations of glutamatergic neurotransmission, the bidirectional targeting of BDNF in the striatum, and the potential regulatory role played by BDNF in behavioral responses to nicotine exposure.

The role of magnesium sulfate (MgSO4) in fetal neuroprotection

Prevention of neurologic disability associated with preterm birth is one of the major challenges in current perinatal medicine. Magnesium sulfate (MgSO₄), the focus of this review has been proposed as major step forward for that matter. MgSO₄ is easily accessible, cheap, and has been proposed as a mandatory part of the management of inevitable preterm birth. The results of the various RCT's on the use of MgSO₄ for neuroprotection has been the subject of many systematic reviews, other studies focused on dosing schedules, side effects and only a few focused on exploring magnesium's mechanism of action. Meanwhile, many guidelines worldwide have plugged MgSO₄ as an essential ingredient of daily best practice when managing inevitable preterm birth because it has been shown to reduce the risk of severe neurologic deficit, in particular, cerebral palsy in appropriately selected patients. The more premature, the greater benefit associated with the use of antenatal MgSO₄. The dose of 4 g given intravenously 15 min continued by 1 g/h until maximum 24 h and minimum for 4 h is the standard regiment proposed in most guidelines. It should be noted, however, that a recent study found that a total dose of 64 g was associated with the maximum protective effect. Only the protocol used by the largest RCT, the BEAM trial, with a loading dose of 6 g initially followed by a 2-g/h maintenance dose, if continued for 24 h would give a total dose over 50 g. Other studies report on an increased risk of neonatal death with these high doses. Several studies expressed concerns about the risk of serious side effects for both mother and neonate. The results from the systematic review showed that the most commonly used dosage, 4 g bolus continued by 1 g/h maintenance, did not increase neonatal mortality and other suspected neonatal complication such as neonatal asphyxia, spontaneous intestinal perforation, necrotizing enterocolitis, and feeding intolerance. Giving a single bolus injection of 4 g MgSO4 for stimulating BDNF production in highly "suspicious" preterm labor, and 4 g again when preterm birth become inevitable may be best from a safety perspective and also appears to have a stronger rationale.

The possible beneficial effects of creatine for the management of depression

Depression, a highly prevalent neuropsychiatric disorder worldwide, causes a heavy burden for the society and is associated with suicide risk. The treatment of this disorder remains a challenge, since currently available antidepressants provide a slow and, often, incomplete response and cause several side effects that contribute to diminish the adhesion of patients to treatment. In this context, several nutraceuticals have been investigated regarding their possible beneficial effects for the management of this neuropsychiatric disorder. Creatine stands out as a supplement frequently used for ergogenic purpose, but it also is a neuroprotective compound with potential to treat or mitigate a broad range of central nervous systems diseases, including depression. This review presents preclinical and clinical evidence that creatine may exhibit antidepressant properties. The focus is given on the possible molecular mechanisms underlying its effects based on the results obtained with different animal models of depression. Finally, evidence obtained in animal models of depression addressing the possibility that creatine may produce rapid antidepressant effect, similar to ketamine, are also presented and discussed.

A Novel Peptide Interfering with proBDNF-Sortilin Interaction Alleviates Chronic Inflammatory Pain

Rationale: Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is a key mediator in the development of chronic pain. Sortilin is known to interact with proBDNF and regulate its activity-dependent secretion in cortical neurons. In a rat model of inflammatory pain with intraplantar injection of complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA), we examined the functional role of proBDNF-sortilin interaction in dorsal root ganglia (DRG).

Methods: Expression and co-localization of BDNF and sortilin were determined by immunofluorescence. ProBDNF-sortilin interaction interface was mapped using co-immunoprecipitation and bimolecular fluorescence complementation assay. The analgesic effect of intrathecal injection of a synthetic peptide interfering with proBDNF-sortilin interaction was measured in the CFA model.

Results: BDNF and sortilin were co-localized and their expression was significantly increased in ipsilateral L4/5 DRG upon hind paw CFA injection. In vivo adeno-associated virus-mediated knockdown of sortilin-1 in L5 DRG alleviated pain-like responses. Mapping by serial deletions in the BDNF prodomain indicated that amino acid residues 71-100 supported the proBDNF-sortilin interaction. A synthetic peptide identical to amino acid residues 89-98 of proBDNF, as compared with scrambled peptide, was found to interfere with proBDNF-sortilin interaction, inhibit activity-dependent release of BDNF in vitro and reduce CFA-induced mechanical allodynia and heat hyperalgesia in vivo. The synthetic peptide also interfered with capsaicin-induced phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinases in ipsilateral spinal cord of CFA-injected rats.

Conclusions: Sortilin-mediated secretion of BDNF from DRG neurons contributes to CFA-induced inflammatory pain. Interfering with proBDNF-sortilin interaction reduced activity-dependent release of BDNF and might serve as a therapeutic approach for chronic inflammatory pain.

Distant Space Processing is Controlled by tPA-dependent NMDA Receptor Signaling in the Entorhinal Cortex

In humans, spatial cognition and navigation impairments are a frequent situation during physiological and pathological aging, leading to a dramatic deterioration in the quality of life. Despite the discovery of neurons with location-specific activity in rodents, that is, place cells in the hippocampus and later on grid cells in the entorhinal cortex (EC), the molecular mechanisms underlying spatial cognition are still poorly known. Our present data bring together in an unusual combination 2 molecules of primary biological importance: a major neuronal excitatory receptor, N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR), and an extracellular protease, tissue plasminogen activator (tPA), in the control of spatial navigation. By using tPA-deficient mice and a structure-selective pharmacological approach, we demonstrate that the tPA-dependent NMDAR signaling potentiation in the EC plays a key and selective role in the encoding and the subsequent use of distant landmarks during spatial learning. We also demonstrate that this novel function of tPA in the EC is reduced during aging. Overall, these results argue for the concept that encoding of proximal versus distal landmarks is mediated not only by different anatomical pathways but also by different molecular mechanisms, with the tPA-dependent potentiation of NMDAR signaling in the EC that plays an important role.

The role of hypernitrosylation in the pathogenesis and pathophysiology of neuroprogressive diseases

There is a wealth of data indicating that de novo protein S-nitrosylation in general and protein transnitrosylation in particular mediates the bulk of nitric oxide signalling. These processes enable redox sensing and facilitate homeostatic regulation of redox dependent protein signalling, function, stability and trafficking. Increased S-nitrosylation in an environment of increasing oxidative and nitrosative stress (O&NS) is initially a protective mechanism aimed at maintaining protein structure and function. When O&NS becomes severe, mechanisms governing denitrosylation and transnitrosylation break down leading to the pathological state referred to as hypernitrosylation (HN). Such a state has been implicated in the pathogenesis and pathophysiology of several neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative diseases and we investigate its potential role in the development and maintenance of neuroprogressive disorders. In this paper, we propose a model whereby the hypernitrosylation of a range of functional proteins and enzymes lead to changes in activity which conspire to produce at least some of the core abnormalities contributing to the development and maintenance of pathology in these illnesses.

Motoneuron glutamatergic receptor expression following recovery from cervical spinal hemisection

Cervical spinal hemisection at C2 (SH) removes premotor drive to phrenic motoneurons located in segments C3-C5 in rats. Spontaneous recovery of ipsilateral diaphragm muscle activity is associated with increased phrenic motoneuron expression of glutamatergic N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors and decreased expression of α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methylisoxazole-4-proprionic acid (AMPA) receptors. Glutamatergic receptor expression is regulated by tropomyosin-related kinase receptor subtype B (TrkB) signaling in various neuronal systems, and increased TrkB receptor expression in phrenic motoneurons enhances recovery post-SH. Accordingly, we hypothesize that recovery of ipsilateral diaphragm muscle activity post-SH, whether spontaneous or enhanced by adenoassociated virus (AAV)-mediated upregulation of TrkB receptor expression, is associated with increased expression of glutamatergic NMDA receptors in phrenic motoneurons. Adult male Sprague-Dawley rats underwent diaphragm electromyography electrode implantation and SH surgery. Rats were injected intrapleurally with AAV expressing TrkB or GFP 3 weeks before SH. At 14 days post-SH, the proportion of animals displaying recovery of ipsilateral diaphragm activity increased in AAV-TrkB-treated (9/9) compared with untreated (3/5) or AAV-GFP-treated (4/10; P < 0.027) animals. Phrenic motoneuron NMDA NR1 subunit mRNA expression was approximately fourfold greater in AAV-TrkB- vs. AAV-GFP-treated SH animals (P < 0.004) and in animals displaying recovery vs. those not recovering (P < 0.005). Phrenic motoneuron AMPA glutamate receptor 2 (GluR2) subunit mRNA expression decreased after SH, and, albeit increased in animals displaying recovery vs. those not recovering, levels remained lower than control. We conclude that increased phrenic motoneuron expression of glutamatergic NMDA receptors is associated with spontaneous recovery after SH and enhanced recovery after AAV-TrkB treatment. J. Comp. Neurol. 525:1192-1205, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Autism phenotypes in ZnT3 null mice: Involvement of zinc dyshomeostasis, MMP-9 activation and BDNF upregulation

To investigate the role of synaptic zinc in the ASD pathogenesis, we examined zinc transporter 3 (ZnT3) null mice. At 4–5 weeks of age, male but not female ZnT3 null mice exhibited autistic-like behaviors. Cortical volume and neurite density were significantly greater in male ZnT3 null mice than in WT mice. In male ZnT3 null mice, consistent with enhanced neurotrophic stimuli, the level of BDNF as well as activity of MMP-9 was increased. Consistent with known roles for MMPs in BDNF upregulation, 2.5-week treatment with minocycline, an MMP inhibitor, significantly attenuated BDNF levels as well as megalencephaly and autistic-like behaviors. Although the ZnT3 null state removed synaptic zinc, it rather increased free zinc in the cytosol of brain cells, which appeared to increase MMP-9 activity and BDNF levels. The present results suggest that zinc dyshomeostasis during the critical period of brain development may be a possible contributing mechanism for ASD.

Alterations of p75 neurotrophin receptor and Myelin transcription factor 1 in the hippocampus of perinatal phencyclidine treated rats

Postnatal administration of phencyclidine (PCP) in rodents causes major disturbances to neurological processes resulting in severe modifications to normal behavioral traits into adulthood. It is routinely used to model psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia, producing many of the dysfunctional processes in the brain that are present in this devastating disorder, including elevated levels of apoptosis during neurodevelopment and disruptions to myelin and plasticity processes. Lingo-1 (or Leucine-rich repeat and immunoglobulin domain-containing protein) is responsible for negatively regulating neurite outgrowth and the myelination of axons. Recent findings using a postmortem human brain cohort showed that Lingo-1 signaling partners in the Nogo receptor (NgR)/p75/TNF receptor orphan Y (TROY) signaling complex, and downstream signaling partners With No Lysine (K) (WNK1) and Myelin transcription factor 1 (Myt1), play a significant part in schizophrenia pathophysiology. Here we have examined the implication of Lingo-1 and its signaling partners in a neurodevelopmental model of schizophrenia using PCP to determine if these pathways are altered in the hippocampus throughout different stages of neurodevelopment. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were injected subcutaneously with PCP (10mg/kg) or saline solution on postnatal days (PN) 7, 9, and 11. Rats (n=6/group) were sacrificed at PN12, 5weeks, or 14weeks. Relative expression levels of Lingo-1 signaling proteins were examined in the hippocampus of the treated rats. p75 and Myt1 were decreased (0.001≤p≤0.011) in the PCP treated rats at PN12. There were no significant changes in any of the tested proteins at 5weeks (p>0.05). At 14weeks, p75, TROY, and Myt1 were increased in the PCP treated rats (0.014≤p≤0.022). This is the first report of an alteration in Lingo-1 signaling proteins in the rat hippocampus, both directly after PCP treatment in early development and in adulthood. Based on our results, we propose that components of the Lingo-1 signaling pathways may be involved in the acute neurotoxicity induced by perinatal administration of PCP in rats early in development and suggest that this may have implications for the hippocampal deficits seen in schizophrenia.

Endogenous BDNF augments NMDA receptor phosphorylation in the spinal cord via PLCγ, PKC, and PI3K/Akt pathways during colitis

Background

Spinal central sensitization is an important process in the generation and maintenance of visceral hypersensitivity. The release of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) from the primary afferent neurons to the spinal cord contributes to spinal neuronal plasticity and increases neuronal activity and synaptic efficacy. The N-Methyl-D-aspartic acid (NMDA) receptor possesses ion channel properties, and its activity is modulated by phosphorylation of its subunits including the NMDA receptor 1 (NR1).

Methods

Colonic inflammation was induced by a single dose of intracolonic instillation of tri-nitrobenzene sulfonic acid (TNBS). NR1 phosphorylation by BDNF in vivo and in culture was examined by western blot and immunohistochemistry. Signal transduction was studied by direct examination and use of specific inhibitors.

Results

During colitis, the level of NR1 phospho-Ser⁸⁹⁶ was increased in the dorsal horn region of the L1 and S1 spinal cord; this increase was attenuated by injection of BDNF neutralizing antibody to colitic animals (36 μg/kg, intravenous (i.v.)) and was also reduced in BDNF^+/− rat treated with TNBS. Signal transduction examination showed that the extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) activation was not involved in BDNF-induced NR1 phosphorylation. In contrast, the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt pathway mediated BDNF-induced NR1 phosphorylation in vivo and in culture; this is an additional pathway to the phospholipase C-gamma (PLCγ) and the protein kinase C (PKC) that was widely considered to phosphorylate NR1 at Ser⁸⁹⁶. In spinal cord culture, the inhibitors to PLC (U73122), PKC (bisindolylmaleimide I), and PI3K (LY294002), but not MEK (PD98059) blocked BDNF-induced NR1 phosphorylation. In animals with colitis, treatment with LY294002 (50 μg/kg, i.v.) blocked the Akt activity as well as NR1 phosphorylation at Ser⁸⁹⁶ in the spinal cord.

Conclusion

BDNF participates in colitis-induced spinal central sensitization by up-regulating NR1 phosphorylation at Ser⁸⁹⁶. The PI3K/Akt pathway, in addition to PLCγ and PKC, mediates BDNF action in the spinal cord during colitis.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12974-015-0371-z) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Alteration of the Centromedial Amygdala Glutamatergic Synapses by the BDNF Val66Met Polymorphism

Fear expression is mediated by an activation of the centromedial amygdala (CEm), the major output nucleus of the amygdaloid complex. Consistently, fear extinction is associated with an increased synaptic inhibition as well as a suppression of the excitability of the CEm neurons. However, little is known about the role of CEm glutamatergic synapses in fear regulation and anxiety-like behaviors. The BDNF Val66Met, a single-nucleotide polymorphism in the human BDNF gene, impairs fear extinction and leads to anxiety-like symptoms. To determine whether the BDNF Val66Met polymorphism affects the CEm excitatory synapses, we examined basal glutamatergic synaptic transmission and plasticity in the CEm neurons of BDNF Val66Met knock-in (BDNF(Met/Met)) mice. The BDNF Val66Met single-nucleotide polymorphism exerted an opposite effect on non-NMDA and NMDA receptor transmission with a potentiation of the former and a suppression of the latter. In addition, the decay time of NMDA currents was decreased in BDNF(Met/Met) mice, suggesting a modification of NMDA receptor subunit composition. Unlike the wild-type mice that exhibited a potentiation of non-NMDA receptor transmission following fear conditioning and a depotentiation upon fear extinction, BDNF(Met/Met) mice failed to show this experience-dependent synaptic plasticity in the CEm neurons. Our results suggest that the elevated non-NMDA receptor transmission, the suppression of NMDA receptor transmission, and an impairment of synaptic plasticity in the CEm neurons might contribute to the fear extinction deficit and increased anxiety-like symptoms in BDNF Val66Met carriers.

Identification of a Novel Rat NR2B Subunit Gene Promoter Region Variant and Its Association with Microwave-Induced Neuron Impairment

Microwave radiation has been implicated in cognitive dysfunction and neuronal injury in animal models and in human investigations; however, the mechanism of these effects is unclear. In this study, single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) sites in the rat GRIN2B promoter region were screened. The associations of these SNPs with microwave-induced rat brain dysfunction and with rat pheochromocytoma-12 (PC12) cell function were investigated. Wistar rats (n = 160) were exposed to microwave radiation (30 mW/cm(2) for 5 min/day, 5 days/week, over a period of 2 months). Screening of the GRIN2B promoter region revealed a stable C-to-T variant at nucleotide position -217 that was not induced by microwave exposure. The learning and memory ability, amino acid contents in the hippocampus and cerebrospinal fluid, and NR2B expression were then investigated in the different genotypes. Following microwave exposure, NR2B protein expression decreased, while the Glu contents in the hippocampus and CSF increased, and memory impairment was observed in the TT genotype but not the CC and CT genotypes. In PC12 cells, the effects of the T allele were more pronounced than those of the C allele on transcription factor binding ability, transcriptional activity, NR2B mRNA, and protein expression. These effects may be related to the detrimental role of the T allele and the protective role of the C allele in rat brain function and PC12 cells exposed to microwave radiation.

P2X4 receptor in the dorsal horn partially contributes to brain-derived neurotrophic factor oversecretion and toll-like receptor-4 receptor activation associated with bone cancer pain

Previous studies have suggested that the microglial P2X7 purinoceptor is involved in the release of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNFα) following activation of toll-like receptor-4 (TLR4), which is associated with nociceptive behavior. In addition, this progress is evoked by the activation of the P2X4 purinoceptor (P2X4R). Although P2X4R is also localized within spinal microglia in the dorsal horn, little is known about its role in cancer-induced bone pain (CIBP), which is in some ways unique. With the present rat model of CIBP, we demonstrate a critical role of the microglial P2X4R in the enhanced nociceptive transmission, which is associated with TLR4 activation and secretion of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and TNFα in the dorsal horn. We assessed mechanical threshold and spontaneous pain of CIBP rats. Moreover, P2X4R small interfering RNA (siRNA) was administered intrathecally, and real-time PCR, Western blots, immunofluorescence histochemistry, and ELISA were used to detect the expression of P2X4R, TLR4, OX-42, phosphorylated-p38 MAPK (p-p38), BDNF, and TNFα. Compared with controls, intrathecal injection of P2X4R siRNA could prevent nociceptive behavior induced by ATP plus lipopolysaccharide and CIBP and reduce the expression of P2X4R, TLR4, p-p38, BDNF, and TNFα. In addition, the increase of BDNF protein in rat microglial cells depended on P2X4 receptor signaling, which is partially associated with TLR4 activation. The ability of microglial P2X4R to activate TLR4 in spinal cord leading to behavioral hypersensitivity and oversecretion of BDNF could provide an opportunity for the prevention and treatment of CIBP.

Enriched environment attenuates changes in water-maze performance and BDNF level caused by prenatal alcohol exposure

Prenatal exposure to alcohol can result in fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS), characterized by significant changes in the physiology, structural plasticity of hippocampal function, including long-term deficits in learning and memory. Environmental enrichment has long been known to improve motor and cognitive function levels, causes several neurochemical and morphological alterations in the brain. Therefore, the effects of environmental enrichment on the neurobehavioral and neurotrophic changes in mice exposed prenatally to alcohol were investigated in this study. The pregnant dams were given 25 % ethanol (w/v) or isocaloric sucrose by liquid diet from gestation day 7 to 20. After weaning on postnatal day 28, offspring were exposed to standard cage (CC, CFAS) or enriched living conditions (CE, EFAS) for 8 weeks. Neurobehavioral studies both on hippocampus-dependent spatial learning and place and cue learning strategy, a striatum-dependent test, were measured by the Morris water maze task. Moreover, the reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) technique was also used in order to study the expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) level in both the hippocampus and striatum of mice. Neurobehavioral studies show that animals exposed prenatally to alcohol were impaired as shown in both hippocampal-dependent spatial/place and striatal-dependent response/cue learning tests. Moreover, the levels of BDNF expression both in the hippocampus and striatum of mice were also decreased. Interestingly, environmental enrichment can ameliorate the effects of prenatal alcohol exposure both on the neurobehavioral and neurotrophic levels. These observations indicated that enriched environment attenuated memory impairment of prenatal alcohol exposure both in hippocampal and striatal circuitry.

Microglia control neuronal network excitability via BDNF signalling

Microglia-neuron interactions play a crucial role in several neurological disorders characterized by altered neural network excitability, such as epilepsy and neuropathic pain. While a series of potential messengers have been postulated as substrates of the communication between microglia and neurons, including cytokines, purines, prostaglandins, and nitric oxide, the specific links between messengers, microglia, neuronal networks, and diseases have remained elusive. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) released by microglia emerges as an exception in this riddle. Here, we review the current knowledge on the role played by microglial BDNF in controlling neuronal excitability by causing disinhibition. The efforts made by different laboratories during the last decade have collectively provided a robust mechanistic paradigm which elucidates the mechanisms involved in the synthesis and release of BDNF from microglia, the downstream TrkB-mediated signals in neurons, and the biophysical mechanism by which disinhibition occurs, via the downregulation of the K⁺-Cl⁻ cotransporter KCC2, dysrupting Cl⁻ homeostasis, and hence the strength of GABA(A)- and glycine receptor-mediated inhibition. The resulting altered network activity appears to explain several features of the associated pathologies. Targeting the molecular players involved in this canonical signaling pathway may lead to novel therapeutic approach for ameliorating a wide array of neural dysfunctions.

Synaptic regulation of affective behaviors; role of BDNF

Brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a neurotrophin essential for nervous system development and synaptic plasticity, has been found to have a significant influence on affective behaviors. The notion that an impairment in BDNF signaling might be involved in affective disorders is originated primarily from the opposing effects of antidepressants and stress on BDNF signaling. Antidepressants enhance BDNF signaling and synaptic plasticity. On the other hand, negative environmental factors such as severe stress suppress BDNF signaling, impair synaptic activity and increase susceptibility to affective disorders. Postmortem studies provided strong support for decreased BDNF signaling in depressive disorders. Remarkably, studies in humans with a single nucleotide polymorphism in the BDNF gene, the BDNF Val66Met which affects regulated release of BDNF, showed profound deficits in hippocampal and prefrontal cortical (PFC) plasticity and cognitive behaviors. BDNF regulates synaptic mechanisms responsible for various cognitive processes including attenuation of aversive memories, a key process in the regulation of affective behaviors. The unique role of BDNF in cognitive and affective behaviors suggests that cognitive deficits due to altered BDNF signaling might underlie affective disorders. Understanding how BDNF modulates synapses in neural circuits relevant to affective behaviors, particularly the medial prefrontal cortical (mPFC)-hippocampus-amygdala pathway, and its interaction with development, sex, and environmental risk factors might shed light on potential therapeutic targets for affective disorders. This article is part of the Special Issue entitled 'BDNF Regulation of Synaptic Structure, Function, and Plasticity'.

BDNF prevents NMDA-induced toxicity in models of Huntington's disease: the effects are genotype specific and adenosine A2A receptor is involved

NMDA receptor-mediated excitotoxicity is thought to play a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of Huntington's disease (HD). The neurotrophin brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which is also highly involved in HD and whose effects are modulated by adenosine A2 ARs, influences the activity and expression of striatal NMDA receptors. In electrophysiology experiments, we investigated the role of BDNF toward NMDA-induced effects in HD models, and the possible involvement of A2ARs. In corticostriatal slices from wild-type mice and age-matched symptomatic R6/2 mice (a model of HD), NMDA application (75 μM) induced a transient or a permanent (i.e., toxic) reduction of field potential amplitude, respectively. BDNF (10 ng/mL) potentiated NMDA effects in wild-type, while it protected from NMDA toxicity in R6/2 mice. Both effects of BDNF were prevented by A2 AR blockade. The protective effect of BDNF against NMDA-induced toxicity was reproduced in a cellular model of HD. These findings may have very important implications for the neuroprotective potential of BDNF and A2 AR ligands in HD.

The neuroprotective roles of BDNF in hypoxic ischemic brain injury

Hypoxia-ischemia (H/I) brain injury results in various degrees of damage to the body, and the immature brain is particularly fragile to oxygen deprivation. Hypothermia and erythropoietin (EPO) have long been known to be neuroprotective in ischemic brain injury. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) has recently been recognized as a potent modulator capable of regulating a wide repertoire of neuronal functions. This review was based on studies concerning the involvement of BDNF in the protection of H/I brain injury following a search in PubMed between 1995 and December, 2011. We initially examined the background of BDNF, and then focused on its neuroprotective mechanisms against ischemic brain injury, including its involvement in promoting neural regeneration/cognition/memory rehabilitation, angiogenesis within ischemic penumbra and the inhibition of the inflammatory process, neurotoxicity, epilepsy and apoptosis. We also provided a literature overview of experimental studies, discussing the safety and the potential clinical application of BDNF as a neuroprotective agent in the ischemic brain injury.

Melatonin attenuates scopolamine-induced memory/synaptic disorder by rescuing EPACs/miR-124/Egr1 pathway

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most prevalent type of dementia in elderly people. There are decreased melatonin levels in the serum of AD patients, and melatonin supplements are able to reverse AD pathology and memory deficits in many animal experiments and clinical trials. However, the underlying mechanism regarding how melatonin rescues the AD-like memory/synaptic disorder remains unknown. Here, we use the Morris water maze, step-down inhibitory avoidance task, in vivo long-term potentiation recording, and Golgi staining and report that intraperitoneal injection of melatonin (1 mg/kg/day) for 14 days in rats effectively reverses the memory and synaptic impairment in scopolamine-induced amnesia, a well-recognized dementia animal model. Using real-time polymerase chain reaction and western blotting experiments, we further determined that melatonin rescues the EPACs/miR-124/Egr1 signal pathway, which is important in learning and memory, as reported recently. Our studies provide a novel underlying epigenetic mechanism for melatonin to attenuate the synaptic disorder and could benefit drug discovery in neurodegenerative diseases.

The BDNF Val66Met polymorphism impairs synaptic transmission and plasticity in the infralimbic medial prefrontal cortex

The brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) Val66Met polymorphism is a common human single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) that affects the regulated release of BDNF, and has been implicated in affective disorders and cognitive dysfunction. A decreased activation of the infralimbic medial prefrontal cortex (IL-mPFC), a brain region critical for the regulation of affective behaviors, has been described in BDNF(Met) carriers. However, it is unclear whether and how the Val66Met polymorphism affects the IL-mPFC synapses. Here, we report that spike timing-dependent plasticity (STDP) was absent in the IL-mPFC pyramidal neurons from BDNF(Met/Met) mice, a mouse that recapitulates the specific phenotypic properties of the human BDNF Val66Met polymorphism. Also, we observed a decrease in NMDA and GABA receptor-mediated synaptic transmission in the pyramidal neurons of BDNF(Met/Met) mice. While BDNF enhanced non-NMDA receptor transmission and depressed GABA receptor transmission in the wild-type mice, both effects were absent in BDNF(Met/Met) mice after BDNF treatment. Indeed, exogenous BDNF reversed the deficits in STDP and NMDA receptor transmission in BDNF(Met/Met) neurons. BDNF-mediated selective reversal of the deficit in plasticity and NMDA receptor transmission, but its lack of effect on GABA and non-NMDA receptor transmission in BDNF(Met/Met) mice, suggests separate mechanisms of Val66Met polymorphism upon synaptic transmission. The effect of the Val66Met polymorphism on synaptic transmission and plasticity in the IL-mPFC represents a mechanism to account for this impact of SNP on affective disorders and cognitive dysfunction.

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor modulates N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor activation in a rat model of cancer-induced bone pain

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) released within the spinal cord induces phosphorylation of N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors on the spinal cord neurons. This process is necessary for maintaining pain hypersensitivity after nerve injury. However, little is known about the role of BDNF and NMDA receptors in cancer-induced bone pain (CIBP), whose features are unique. This study demonstrates a critical role of the BDNF-modulated NMDA subunit 1 (NR1) in the induction and maintenance of behavioral hypersensitivity in a rat model of CIBP, both in the spinal cord and in the dorsal root ganglia (DRG). We selectively suppressed BDNF expression by RNA interference (RNAi) using intrathecal administration of BDNF small interfering RNA (siRNA). Then, we assessed mechanical threshold and spontaneous pain in CIBP rats. Real-time PCR, Western blotting, and fluorescent immunohistochemical staining were used to detect BDNF or NR1 both in vivo and in vitro. BDNF and phospho-NR1 were expressed under CIBP experimental conditions, with expression levels peaking at day 6 (BDNF) or 9 (NR1). Intrathecal BDNF siRNA prevented CIBP at an early stage of tumor growth (days 4-6). However, at later stages (days 10-12), intrathecal BDNF siRNA only attenuated, but did not completely block, the established CIBP. BDNF-induced NMDA receptor activation in the spinal cord or DRG leads to central sensitization and behavioral hypersensitivity. Thus, BDNF might provide a targeting opportunity for alleviating CIBP.

CRP1, a protein localized in filopodia of growth cones, is involved in dendritic growth

The cysteine-rich protein (CRP) family is a subgroup of LIM domain proteins. CRP1, which cross-links actin filaments to make actin bundles, is the only CRP family member expressed in the CNS with little known about its function in nerve cells. Here, we report that CRP1 colocalizes with actin in the filopodia of growth cones in cultured rat hippocampal neurons. Knockdown of CRP1 expression by short hairpin RNA interference results in inhibition of filopodia formation and dendritic growth in neurons. Overexpression of CRP1 increases filopodia formation and neurite branching, which require its actin-bundling activity. Expression of CRP1 with a constitutively active form of Cdc42, a GTPase involved in filopodia formation, increases filopodia formation in COS-7 cells, suggesting cooperation between the two proteins. Moreover, we demonstrate that neuronal activity upregulates CRP1 expression in hippocampal neurons via Ca²⁺ influx after depolarization. Ca²⁺/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase IV (CaMKIV) and cAMP response element binding protein mediate the Ca²⁺-induced upregulation of CRP1 expression. Furthermore, CRP1 is required for the dendritic growth induced by Ca²⁺ influx or CaMKIV. Together, these data are the first to demonstrate a role for CRP1 in dendritic growth.

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor promotes adaptive plasticity within the spinal cord and mediates the beneficial effects of controllable stimulation

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) has been characterized as a potent modulator of neural plasticity in both the brain and spinal cord. The present experiments use an in vivo model system to demonstrate that training with controllable stimulation increases spinal BDNF expression and engages a BDNF-dependent process that promotes adaptive plasticity. Spinally transected rats administered legshock whenever one hind limb is extended (controllable stimulation) exhibit a progressive increase in flexion duration. This simple form of response-outcome (instrumental) learning is not observed when shock is given independent of leg position (uncontrollable stimulation). Uncontrollable electrical stimulation also induces a lasting effect that impairs learning for up to 48 h. Training with controllable shock can counter the adverse consequences of uncontrollable stimulation, to both prevent and reverse the learning deficit. Here it is shown that the protective and restorative effect of instrumental training depends on BDNF. Cellular assays showed that controllable stimulation increased BDNF mRNA expression and protein within the lumbar spinal cord. These changes were associated with an increase in the BDNF receptor TrkB protein within the dorsal horn. Evidence is then presented that these changes play a functional role in vivo. Application of a BDNF inhibitor (TrkB-IgG) blocked the protective effect of instrumental training. Direct (intrathecal) application of BDNF substituted for instrumental training to block both the induction and expression of the learning deficit. Uncontrollable stimulation also induced an increase in mechanical reactivity (allodynia), and this too was prevented by BDNF. TrkB-IgG blocked the restorative effect of instrumental training and intrathecal BDNF substituted for training to reverse the deficit. Taken together, these findings outline a critical role for BDNF in mediating the beneficial effects of controllable stimulation on spinal plasticity.

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor-tyrosine kinase B pathway mediates NMDA receptor NR2B subunit phosphorylation in the supraoptic nuclei following progressive dehydration

We studied the effects of water deprivation (WD) on the phosphorylation of tyrosine kinase B (TrkB) and NMDA receptor subunits in the supraoptic nucleus (SON) of the rat. Laser capture microdissection and quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction was used to demonstrate brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and TrkB gene expression in vasopressin SON neurones. Immunohistochemistry confirmed BDNF staining in vasopressin neurones, whereas staining for phosphorylated TrkB was increased following WD. Western blot analysis of brain punches containing the SON revealed that tyrosine phosphorylation of TrkB (pTrkBY(515)), serine phosphorylation of NR1 (pNR1S(866) or pNR1) and tyrosine phosphorylation of NR2B subunits (pNR2BY(1472) or pNR2B) were significantly increased in WD animals compared to controls. Access to water for 2 h reduced pTrkBY(515) content to control levels without affecting pNR1 or pNR2B. Four hours of rehydration was needed to reduce pNR1 and pNR2B to control levels. To test whether increased phosphorylation of TrkB in the present study is mediated by BDNF, a group of animals were instrumented with right SON cannula coupled to mini-osmotic pumps filled with vehicle or TrkB-Fc fusion protein, which prevents BDNF binding to TrkB. In the left SON contralateral to the cannula, TrkB phosphorylation was significantly enhanced following WD. Separate analysis of the right SON, which received TrkB-Fc, showed that the TrkB receptor phosphorylation following WD was significantly attenuated. Although increased pNR1S(866) following WD was not affected by local infusion of TrkB-Fc, pNR2BY(1472) was significantly reduced. Co-immunoprecipitation revealed an increased physical interaction between Fyn kinase and NR2B and TrkB in the SON following WD. Thus, activation of TrkB in the SON following WD may affect cellular excitability through the phosphorylation of NR2B subunits.

Modulation of ischemia-induced NMDAR1 activation by environmental enrichment decreases oxidative damage

In this study, we examined whether enriched environment (EE) housing has direct neuroprotective effects on oxidative damage following transient global cerebral ischemia. Fifty-two adult male Wistar rats were included in the study and received either ischemia or sham surgery. Once fully awake, rats in each group were randomly assigned to either: EE housing or socially paired housing (CON). Animals remained in their assigned environment for 7 days, and then were killed. Our data showed that glutamate receptor expression was significantly higher in the hippocampus of the ischemia CON group than in the ischemia EE group. Furthermore, the oxidative DNA damage, protein oxidation, and neurodegeneration in the hippocampus of the ischemia CON group were significantly increased compared to the ischemia EE group. These results suggest that EE housing possibly modulated the ischemia-induced glutamate excitotoxicity, which then attenuated the oxidative damage and neurodegeneration in the ischemia EE rats.

Activation of neural precursors in the adult neurogenic niches

The generation of new neurons within the dentate gyrus of the mature hippocampus is critical for spatial learning, object recognition and memory, whereas new neurons born in the subventricular zone (SVZ) contribute to olfactory function. Adult neurogenesis is a multistep process that begins with the activation and proliferation of a pool of stem/precursor cells. Although the presence of self-renewing and multipotent neural precursors is well established in the SVZ, it is only recently that the existence of such a precursor population has been demonstrated in the hippocampus, the region of the brain involved in learning and memory. Determining how this normally latent pool can be activated therefore offers considerable potential for the development of targeted neurogenic-based therapeutics to ameliorate the cognitive decline associated with hippocampal dysfunction in several neurodegenerative diseases. In this review, we summarize the effects of neural activity, various molecular factors and pharmaceutical agents, as well as voluntary exercise, in activating endogenous neural precursors in the two neurogenic niches of the adult brain, and highlight the role of activation-driven enhancement of neurogenesis for the treatment of psychiatric illness and aging dementia.

EphA activation overrides the presynaptic actions of BDNF

The adult pattern of neural connectivity is shaped by repulsive and attractive factors, many of which are modulated by activity. Although much is known about the actions of these factors when studied in isolation, little is known about how they interact. To address this question, we examined the effects of sequential or coapplication of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and Fc-conjugated ephrin-A5 or EphA5 in cultured embryonic hippocampal neurons. BDNF promotes neurite outgrowth and synapse formation, and when applied acutely, it elicits an increase in ongoing synaptic activity. Members of the ephrin family of ligands and receptors can be repulsive and prevent formation of synaptic contacts. Acute exposure to either ephrin-A5-Fc or EphA5-Fc transiently enhanced synaptic activity when applied alone, but when applied prior to BDNF, they dramatically reduced the electrophysiological effects of the neurotrophin. Conversely, BDNF had no effect on subsequently applied ephrin-A5-Fc or EphA5-Fc. Consistent with this, ephrin-A5-Fc also prevented BDNF-induced activation of p42/44 MAPK. The effect of ephrin-A5-Fc appears to be presynaptic, as it prevented the BDNF-induced increase in spontaneous miniature postsynaptic current frequency, whereas EphA5-Fc did not. These results suggest that these factors can be categorized differently, with the contact-mediated activation of EphA receptors by ephrin-A5 overriding the diffusion-mediated effect of BDNF.

The BDNF Val66Met polymorphism impairs NMDA receptor-dependent synaptic plasticity in the hippocampus

The Val66Met polymorphism in the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) gene results in a defect in regulated release of BDNF and affects episodic memory and affective behaviors. However, the precise role of the BDNF Val66Met polymorphism in hippocampal synaptic transmission and plasticity has not yet been studied. Therefore, we examined synaptic properties in the hippocampal CA3-CA1 synapses of BDNF(Met/Met) mice and matched wild-type mice. Although basal glutamatergic neurotransmission was normal, both young and adult mice showed a significant reduction in NMDA receptor-dependent long-term potentiation. We also found that NMDA receptor-dependent long-term depression was decreased in BDNF(Met/Met) mice. However, mGluR-dependent long-term depression was not affected by the BDNF Val66Met polymorphism. Consistent with the NMDA receptor-dependent synaptic plasticity impairment, we observed a significant decrease in NMDA receptor neurotransmission in the CA1 pyramidal neurons of BDNF(Met/Met) mice. Thus, these results show that the BDNF Val66Met polymorphism has a direct effect on NMDA receptor transmission, which may account for changes in synaptic plasticity in the hippocampus.

Mechanism underlying activity-dependent insertion of TrkB into the neuronal surface

Activity-dependent insertion of tyrosine kinase receptor type 2 (TrkB receptor) into the plasma membrane can explain, in part, the preferential effect of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) on active neurons; however, the detailed cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying this process are still unclear. In our study, we developed a fluorescence ratiometric assay for surface TrkB receptors to investigate the mechanisms of recruitment of TrkB to the plasma membrane following chemical long-term potentiation (cLTP) induction. We found that, in hippocampal neurons, the effect of cLTP-induced TrkB surface-recruitment occurred predominantly on neurites with rapid kinetics (t(1/2) of approximately 2.3 minutes) and was dependent on an intact cytoskeleton structure. Mutagenesis studies revealed that the juxtamembrane domain of TrkB is necessary and sufficient for its activity-dependent insertion into the plasma membrane. Moreover, we found that the phosphorylation of TrkB receptor at the Ser478 site by cyclin-dependent kinase 5 (Cdk5) is essential for cLTP-induced TrkB insertion into the neuronal surface. Finally, the degree of cLTP-induced TrkB surface-recruitment is higher in postsynaptic regions, which provides a potential mechanism for rapid enhancement of postsynaptic sensitivity to incoming BDNF signaling. Our studies provide new insights regarding neuronal activity-dependent surface delivery of TrkB receptor, which will advance our understanding of the modulatory role of TrkB in synaptic plasticity.

Mechanisms, locations, and kinetics of synaptic BDNF secretion: an update

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and other members of the protein family of neurotrophins have been implicated in a multitude of processes that are important for neuronal development and synaptic plasticity in the rodent central nervous system. In comparison to the wealth of information available with respect to the biological functions of neurotrophins, our knowledge regarding the processes that govern synaptic secretion of neurotrophins is scarce. Using live cell imaging of GFP-tagged neurotrophins in primary neurons, immunocytochemical detection of endogenous BDNF in fixed cells, and by blocking the action of endogenously released BDNF by means of TrkB receptor bodies in living neurons, several studies in recent years have allowed to better understand the time course and the mechanisms of synaptic secretion of neurotrophins. This review will summarize the current knowledge regarding the intracellular processing of proneurotrophins, the targeting of neurotrophin vesicles to axons and dendrites, and the mechanisms of activity-dependent secretion of BDNF at synapses. Since these processes are known to be cell type dependent, special emphasis is given to observations gained from experiments in primary neurons.