1
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Kim M, Oh S, Kim S, Kim IS, Kim J, Han J, Ahn JW, Chung S, Jang JH, Shin JE, Park KI. In vivo neural regeneration via AAV-NeuroD1 gene delivery to astrocytes in neonatal hypoxic-ischemic brain injury. Inflamm Regen 2024; 44:33. [PMID: 39014391 PMCID: PMC11253351 DOI: 10.1186/s41232-024-00349-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2024] [Accepted: 07/06/2024] [Indexed: 07/18/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neonatal hypoxic-ischemic brain injury (HIBI) is a significant contributor to neonatal mortality and long-term neurodevelopmental disability, characterized by massive neuronal loss and reactive astrogliosis. Current therapeutic approaches for neonatal HIBI have been limited to general supportive therapy because of the lack of methods to compensate for irreversible neuronal loss. This study aimed to establish a feasible regenerative therapy for neonatal HIBI utilizing in vivo direct neuronal reprogramming technology. METHODS Neonatal HIBI was induced in ICR mice at postnatal day 7 by permanent right common carotid artery occlusion and exposure to hypoxia with 8% oxygen and 92% nitrogen for 90 min. Three days after the injury, NeuroD1 was delivered to reactive astrocytes of the injury site using the astrocyte-tropic adeno-associated viral (AAV) vector AAVShH19. AAVShH19 was engineered with the Cre-FLEX system for long-term tracking of infected cells. RESULTS AAVShH19-mediated ectopic NeuroD1 expression effectively converted astrocytes into GABAergic neurons, and the converted cells exhibited electrophysiological properties and synaptic transmitters. Additionally, we found that NeuroD1-mediated in vivo direct neuronal reprogramming protected injured host neurons and altered the host environment, i.e., decreased the numbers of activated microglia, reactive astrocytes, and toxic A1-type astrocytes, and decreased the expression of pro-inflammatory factors. Furthermore, NeuroD1-treated mice exhibited significantly improved motor functions. CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrates that NeuroD1-mediated in vivo direct neuronal reprogramming technology through AAV gene delivery can be a novel regenerative therapy for neonatal HIBI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miri Kim
- Yonsei Biomedical Research Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
- Department of Pediatrics, Severance Children's Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, 50-1 Yonsei-Ro, Seodaemun-Gu, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Seokmin Oh
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Yonsei University, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Songyeon Kim
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Yonsei University, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Il-Sun Kim
- Yonsei Biomedical Research Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Joowon Kim
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Yonsei University, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Jungho Han
- Department of Pediatrics, Severance Children's Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, 50-1 Yonsei-Ro, Seodaemun-Gu, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Ji Woong Ahn
- BnH Research. Co., Ltd. Goyang-Si, Gyeonggi-Do, Republic of Korea
| | - Seungsoo Chung
- Department of Physiology, Brain Korea 21 Plus Project for Medical Science, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae-Hyung Jang
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Yonsei University, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
- GluGene Therapeutics Inc., Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeong Eun Shin
- Yonsei Biomedical Research Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea.
- Department of Pediatrics, Severance Children's Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, 50-1 Yonsei-Ro, Seodaemun-Gu, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea.
| | - Kook In Park
- Yonsei Biomedical Research Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
- Department of Pediatrics, Severance Children's Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, 50-1 Yonsei-Ro, Seodaemun-Gu, Seoul, 03722, Republic of Korea
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2
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Jahncke JN, Wright KM. Tools for Cre-Mediated Conditional Deletion of Floxed Alleles from Developing Cerebellar Purkinje Cells. eNeuro 2024; 11:ENEURO.0149-24.2024. [PMID: 38777609 PMCID: PMC11149487 DOI: 10.1523/eneuro.0149-24.2024] [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: 04/03/2024] [Revised: 05/13/2024] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
The Cre-lox system is an indispensable tool in neuroscience research for targeting gene deletions to specific cellular populations. Here we assess the utility of several transgenic Cre lines, along with a viral approach, for targeting cerebellar Purkinje cells (PCs) in mice. Using a combination of a fluorescent reporter line (Ai14) to indicate Cre-mediated recombination and a floxed Dystroglycan line (Dag1flox ), we show that reporter expression does not always align precisely with loss of protein. The commonly used Pcp2Cre line exhibits a gradual mosaic pattern of Cre recombination in PCs from Postnatal Day 7 (P7) to P14, while loss of Dag1 protein is not complete until P30. Ptf1aCre drives recombination in precursor cells that give rise to GABAergic neurons in the embryonic cerebellum, including PCs and molecular layer interneurons. However, due to its transient expression in precursors, Ptf1aCre results in stochastic loss of Dag1 protein in these neurons. NestinCre , which is often described as a "pan-neuronal" Cre line for the central nervous system, does not drive Cre-mediated recombination in PCs. We identify a Calb1Cre line that drives efficient and complete recombination in embryonic PCs, resulting in loss of Dag1 protein before the period of synaptogenesis. AAV8-mediated delivery of Cre at P0 results in gradual transduction of PCs during the second postnatal week, with loss of Dag1 protein not reaching appreciable levels until P35. These results characterize several tools for targeting conditional deletions in cerebellar PCs at different developmental stages and illustrate the importance of validating the loss of protein following recombination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer N Jahncke
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon 97239
| | - Kevin M Wright
- Vollum Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon 97239
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3
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O'Donohue AK, Xiao Y, Lee LR, Schofield T, Cheng TL, Munns CF, Baldock PA, Schindeler A. Targeted postnatal knockout of Sclerostin using a bone-targeted adeno-associated viral vector increases bone anabolism and decreases canalicular density. Bone 2023; 167:116636. [PMID: 36462771 DOI: 10.1016/j.bone.2022.116636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2022] [Revised: 11/27/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The creation of murine gene knockout models to study bone gene functions often requires the resource intensive crossbreeding of Cre transgenic and gene-floxed strains. The developmental versus postnatal roles of genes can be difficult to discern in such models. For example, embryonic deletion of the Sclerostin (Sost) gene establishes a high-bone mass phenotype in neonatal mice that may impact on future bone growth. To generate a postnatal skeletal knockout of Sost in adult mice, this study used a single injection of a bone-targeted recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV) vector. METHODS 8-week-old Sostflox/flox mice were injected with saline (control) or a single injection containing 5 × 1011 vg AAV8-Sp7-Cre vector. Ai9 fluorescent Cre reporter mice were dosed in parallel to confirm targeting efficiency. After 6 weeks, detailed bone analysis was performed via microCT, biomechanical testing, and bone histology on vertebral and long bone specimens. RESULTS The AAV8-Sp7-Cre vector induced widespread persistent recombination in the bone compartment. Regional microCT analyses revealed significant increases in bone with vector treatment. In the L3 vertebrae, Sostflox/flox:AAV-Cre showed a 22 % increase in bone volume and 21 % in trabecular bone fraction compared to controls; this translated to a 17 % increase in compressive strength. In the tibiae, Sostflox/flox:AAV-Cre led to small but statistically significant increases in cortical bone volume and thickness. These were consistent with a 25 % increase in mineral apposition rate, but this did not translate into increased four-point bending strength. Ploton silver nitrate stain on histological sections revealed an unexpected increase in canalicular density associated with Sost ablation. CONCLUSION This report demonstrates a proof-of-concept that the AAV8-Sp7-Cre vector can efficiently produce postnatal skeletal knockout mice using gene-floxed strains. This technology has the potential for broad utility in the bone field with existing conditional lines. These data also confirm an important postnatal role for Sost in regulating bone homeostasis, consistent with prior studies using neutralizing Sclerostin antibodies, and highlights a novel role of Sost in canalicular remodeling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra K O'Donohue
- Bioengineering & Molecular Medicine Laboratory, The Children's Hospital at Westmead and the Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Westmead, NSW, Australia; The Children's Hospital at Westmead Clinical School, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
| | - Ya Xiao
- Bone Division, Garvan Institute for Medical Research, Darlinghurst, NSW, Australia
| | - Lucinda R Lee
- Bioengineering & Molecular Medicine Laboratory, The Children's Hospital at Westmead and the Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Westmead, NSW, Australia; The Children's Hospital at Westmead Clinical School, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
| | - Timothy Schofield
- Bioengineering & Molecular Medicine Laboratory, The Children's Hospital at Westmead and the Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Westmead, NSW, Australia; The Children's Hospital at Westmead Clinical School, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
| | - Tegan L Cheng
- University of Sydney School of Health Sciences, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia; Engineering Prototypes & Implants for Children (EPIC) Lab, The Children's Hospital at Westmead, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Craig F Munns
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Queensland Children's Hospital, Brisbane, QLD, Australia; Child Health Research Centre and Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Paul A Baldock
- Bone Division, Garvan Institute for Medical Research, Darlinghurst, NSW, Australia
| | - Aaron Schindeler
- Bioengineering & Molecular Medicine Laboratory, The Children's Hospital at Westmead and the Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Westmead, NSW, Australia; The Children's Hospital at Westmead Clinical School, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia.
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4
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Yang OJ, Robilotto GL, Alom F, Alemán K, Devulapally K, Morris A, Mickle AD. Evaluating the transduction efficiency of systemically delivered AAV vectors in the rat nervous system. Front Neurosci 2023; 17:1001007. [PMID: 36755734 PMCID: PMC9899837 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1001007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2022] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Gene delivery or manipulation with viral vectors is a frequently used tool in basic neuroscience studies. Adeno-associated viruses (AAV) are the most widely used vectors due to their relative safety and long-term efficacy without causing overt immunological complications. Many AAV serotypes have been discovered and engineered that preferentially transduce different populations of neurons. However, efficient targeting of peripheral neurons remains challenging for many researchers, and evaluation of peripheral neuron transduction with AAVs in rats is limited. Here, we aimed to test the efficiency of systemic AAVs to transduce peripheral neurons in rats. We administered AAV9-tdTomato, AAV-PHP.S-tdTomato, or AAV-retro-GFP systemically to neonatal rats via intraperitoneal injection. After 5 weeks, we evaluated expression patterns in peripheral sensory, motor, and autonomic neurons. No significant difference between the serotypes in the transduction of sensory neurons was noted, and all serotypes were more efficient in transducing NF200 + neurons compared to smaller CGRP + neurons. AAV-retro was more efficient at transducing motor neurons compared to other serotypes. Moreover, PHP.S was more efficient at transducing sympathetic neurons, and AAV-retro was more efficient at transducing parasympathetic neurons. These results indicate that specific AAV serotypes target peripheral neuron populations more efficiently than others in the neonatal rat.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivia J. Yang
- Department of Physiological Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Gabriella L. Robilotto
- Department of Physiological Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Firoj Alom
- Department of Physiological Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States,Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Rajshahi, Rajshahi, Bangladesh
| | - Karla Alemán
- Department of Physiological Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Karthik Devulapally
- Department of Physiological Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Abigail Morris
- Department of Physiological Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Aaron D. Mickle
- Department of Physiological Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States,Department of Neuroscience, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States,J. Crayton Pruitt Family Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States,*Correspondence: Aaron D. Mickle,
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5
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Eftekharpour E, Shcholok T. Cre-recombinase systems for induction of neuron-specific knockout models: a guide for biomedical researchers. Neural Regen Res 2023; 18:273-279. [PMID: 35900402 PMCID: PMC9396489 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.346541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Gene deletion has been a valuable tool for unraveling the mysteries of molecular biology. Early approaches included gene trapping and gene targetting to disrupt or delete a gene randomly or at a specific location, respectively. Using these technologies in mouse embryos led to the generation of mouse knockout models and many scientific discoveries. The efficacy and specificity of these approaches have significantly increased with the advent of new technology such as clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats for targetted gene deletion. However, several limitations including unwanted off-target gene deletion have hindered their widespread use in the field. Cre-recombinase technology has provided additional capacity for cell-specific gene deletion. In this review, we provide a summary of currently available literature on the application of this system for targetted deletion of neuronal genes. This article has been constructed to provide some background information for the new trainees on the mechanism and to provide necessary information for the design, and application of the Cre-recombinase system through reviewing the most frequent promoters that are currently available for genetic manipulation of neurons. We additionally will provide a summary of the latest technological developments that can be used for targeting neurons. This may also serve as a general guide for the selection of appropriate models for biomedical research.
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6
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Erben L, Welday JP, Murphy R, Buonanno A. Toxic and Phenotypic Effects of AAV_Cre Used to Transduce Mesencephalic Dopaminergic Neurons. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:9462. [PMID: 36012727 PMCID: PMC9408874 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23169462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 08/12/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
A popular approach to spatiotemporally target genes using the loxP/Cre recombination system is stereotaxic microinjection of adeno-associated virus (AAV) expressing Cre recombinase (AAV_Cre) in specific neuronal structures. Here, we report that AAV_Cre microinjection in the ventral tegmental area (VTA) of ErbB4 Cyt-1-floxed (ErbB4 Cyt-1fl/fl) mice at titers commonly used in the literature (~1012-1013 GC/mL) can have neurotoxic effects on dopaminergic neurons and elicit behavioral abnormalities. However, these effects of AAV_Cre microinjection are independent of ErbB4 Cyt-1 recombination because they are also observed in microinjected wild-type (WT) controls. Mice microinjected with AAV_Cre (1012-1013 GC/mL) exhibit reductions of tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) and dopamine transporter (DAT) expression, loss of dopaminergic neurons, and they behaviorally become hyperactive, fail to habituate in the open field and exhibit sensorimotor gating deficits compared to controls microinjected with AAV_GFP. Importantly, these AAV_Cre non-specific effects are: (1) independent of serotype, (2) occur with vectors expressing either Cre or Cre-GFP fusion protein and (3) preventable by reducing viral titers by 1000-fold (1010 GC/mL), which retains sufficient recombination activity to target floxed genes. Our studies emphasize the importance of including AAV_Cre-injected WT controls in experiments because recombination-independent effects on gene expression, neurotoxicity and behaviors could be erroneously attributed to consequences of gene ablation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Andres Buonanno
- Section on Molecular Neurobiology, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
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7
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Buontempo S, Laise P, Hughes JM, Trattaro S, Das V, Rencurel C, Testa G. EZH2-Mediated H3K27me3 Targets Transcriptional Circuits of Neuronal Differentiation. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:814144. [PMID: 35645710 PMCID: PMC9133892 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.814144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 02/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The Polycomb Repressive Complex 2 (PRC2) plays important roles in the epigenetic regulation of cellular development and differentiation through H3K27me3-dependent transcriptional repression. Aberrant PRC2 activity has been associated with cancer and neurodevelopmental disorders, particularly with respect to the malfunction of sits catalytic subunit EZH2. Here, we investigated the role of the EZH2-mediated H3K27me3 apposition in neuronal differentiation. We made use of a transgenic mouse model harboring Ezh2 conditional KO alleles to derive embryonic stem cells and differentiate them into glutamatergic neurons. Time course transcriptomics and epigenomic analyses of H3K27me3 in absence of EZH2 revealed a significant dysregulation of molecular networks affecting the glutamatergic differentiation trajectory that resulted in: (i) the deregulation of transcriptional circuitries related to neuronal differentiation and synaptic plasticity, in particular LTD, as a direct effect of EZH2 loss and (ii) the appearance of a GABAergic gene expression signature during glutamatergic neuron differentiation. These results expand the knowledge about the molecular pathways targeted by Polycomb during glutamatergic neuron differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serena Buontempo
- Department of Experimental Oncology, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Pasquale Laise
- Department of Experimental Oncology, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - James M. Hughes
- Department of Experimental Oncology, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Sebastiano Trattaro
- Department of Experimental Oncology, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
- Human Technopole, Milan, Italy
| | - Vivek Das
- Department of Experimental Oncology, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Chantal Rencurel
- Department of Structural Biology and Biophysics, Biozentrum of the University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Giuseppe Testa
- Department of Experimental Oncology, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy
- Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
- Human Technopole, Milan, Italy
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8
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Kietzman HW, Shapiro LP, Trinoskey-Rice G, Gourley SL. Cell adhesion presence during adolescence controls the architecture of projection-defined prefrontal cortical neurons and reward-related action strategies later in life. Dev Cogn Neurosci 2022; 54:101097. [PMID: 35325840 PMCID: PMC8938620 DOI: 10.1016/j.dcn.2022.101097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2021] [Revised: 02/13/2022] [Accepted: 03/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Adolescent brain development is characterized by neuronal remodeling in the prefrontal cortex; relationships with behavior are largely undefined. Integrins are cell adhesion factors that link the extracellular matrix with intracellular actin cytoskeleton. We find that β1-integrin presence in the prelimbic prefrontal cortex (PL) during adolescence, but not adulthood, is necessary for mice to select actions based on reward likelihood and value. As such, adult mice that lacked β1-integrin during adolescence failed to modify response strategies when rewards lost value or failed to be delivered. This pattern suggests that β1-integrin-mediated neuronal development is necessary for PL function in adulthood. We next visualized adolescent PL neurons, including those receiving input from the basolateral amygdala (BLA) - thought to signal salience - and projecting to the dorsomedial striatum (DMS) - the striatal output by which the PL controls goal-seeking behavior. Firstly, we found that these projection-defined neurons had a distinct morphology relative to general layer V PL neurons. Secondly, β1-integrin loss triggered the overexpression of stubby-type dendritic spines at the expense of mature spines, including on projection-defined neurons. This phenotype was not observed when β1-integrins were silenced before or after adolescence. Altogether, our experiments localize β1-integrin-mediated cell adhesion within a developing di-synaptic circuit coordinating adaptive action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henry W Kietzman
- Medical Scientist Training Program, Emory University School of Medicine, United States; Departments of Pediatrics and Psychiatry, Emory University School of Medicine, United States; Graduate Program in Neuroscience, Emory University, United States; Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, United States
| | - Lauren P Shapiro
- Departments of Pediatrics and Psychiatry, Emory University School of Medicine, United States; Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, United States; Graduate Program in Molecular and Systems Pharmacology, Emory University, United States
| | - Gracy Trinoskey-Rice
- Departments of Pediatrics and Psychiatry, Emory University School of Medicine, United States; Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, United States
| | - Shannon L Gourley
- Departments of Pediatrics and Psychiatry, Emory University School of Medicine, United States; Graduate Program in Neuroscience, Emory University, United States; Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, United States; Graduate Program in Molecular and Systems Pharmacology, Emory University, United States; Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, United States.
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9
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Shah SH, Schiapparelli LM, Ma Y, Yokota S, Atkins M, Xia X, Cameron EG, Huang T, Saturday S, Sun CB, Knasel C, Blackshaw S, Yates Iii JR, Cline HT, Goldberg JL. Quantitative transportomics identifies Kif5a as a major regulator of neurodegeneration. eLife 2022; 11:68148. [PMID: 35259089 PMCID: PMC8947766 DOI: 10.7554/elife.68148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2021] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Many neurons in the adult central nervous system, including retinal ganglion cells (RGCs), degenerate and die after injury. Early axon protein and organelle trafficking failure is a key component in many neurodegenerative disorders yet changes to axoplasmic transport in disease models have not been quantified. We analyzed early changes in the protein ‘transportome’ from RGC somas to their axons after optic nerve injury and identified transport failure of an anterograde motor protein Kif5a early in RGC degeneration. We demonstrated that manipulating Kif5a expression affects anterograde mitochondrial trafficking in RGCs and characterized axon transport in Kif5a knockout mice to identify proteins whose axon localization was Kif5a-dependent. Finally, we found that knockout of Kif5a in RGCs resulted in progressive RGC degeneration in the absence of injury. Together with expression data localizing Kif5a to human RGCs, these data identify Kif5a transport failure as a cause of RGC neurodegeneration and point to a mechanism for future therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sahil H Shah
- Byers Eye Institute and Spencer Center for Vision Research, Stanford University, Palo Alto, United States
| | | | - Yuanhui Ma
- Department of Molecular Medicine, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, United States
| | - Satoshi Yokota
- Byers Eye Institute and Spencer Center for Vision Research, Stanford University, Palo Alto, United States
| | - Melissa Atkins
- Byers Eye Institute and Spencer Center for Vision Research, Stanford University, Palo Alto, United States
| | - Xin Xia
- Byers Eye Institute and Spencer Center for Vision Research, Stanford University, Palo Alto, United States
| | - Evan G Cameron
- Byers Eye Institute and Spencer Center for Vision Research, Stanford University, Palo Alto, United States
| | - Thanh Huang
- Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, United States
| | - Sarah Saturday
- Neuroscience Department, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, United States
| | - Catalin B Sun
- Byers Eye Institute and Spencer Center for Vision Research, Stanford University, Palo Alto, United States
| | - Cara Knasel
- Byers Eye Institute and Spencer Center for Vision Research, Stanford University, Palo Alto, United States
| | - Seth Blackshaw
- Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, United States
| | - John R Yates Iii
- Department of Molecular Medicine, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, United States
| | - Hollis T Cline
- Neuroscience Department, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, United States
| | - Jeffrey L Goldberg
- Byers Eye Institute and Spencer Center for Vision Research, Stanford University, Palo Alto, United States
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10
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Yang Z, Yang M, Chow HM, Tsang SY, Lee MM, Chan MK. Cytosolic delivery of CDK4/6 inhibitor p16 protein using engineered protein crystals for cancer therapy. Acta Biomater 2021; 135:582-592. [PMID: 34496285 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2021.08.054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2021] [Revised: 08/16/2021] [Accepted: 08/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The tumor suppressor p16 protein is an endogenous CDK4/6 inhibitor. Inactivation of its encoding gene is found in nearly half of human cancers. Restoration of p16 function via adenovirus-based gene delivery has been shown to be effective in suppressing aberrant cell growth in many types of cancer, however, the potential risk of insertional mutagenesis in genomic DNA remains a major concern. Thus, there has been great interest in developing efficient strategies to directly deliver proteins into cells as an alternative that can avoid such safety concerns while achieving a comparable therapeutic effect. Nevertheless, intracellular delivery of protein therapeutics remains a challenge. Our group has recently developed a protein delivery platform based on an engineered Pos3Aa protein that forms sub-micrometer-sized crystals in Bacillus thuringiensis cells. In this report, we describe the further development of this platform (Pos3AaTM) via rationally designed site-directed mutagenesis, and its resultant potency for the delivery of cargo proteins into cells. Pos3AaTM-based fusion protein crystals are shown to exhibit improved release of their cargo proteins as demonstrated using a model mCherry protein. Importantly, this Pos3AaTM platform is able to mediate the efficient intracellular delivery of p16 protein with significant endosomal escape, resulting in p16-mediated inhibition of CDK4/6 kinase activity and Rb phosphorylation, and as a consequence, significant cell cycle arrest and cell growth inhibition. These results validate the ability of these improved Pos3AaTM crystals to mediate enhanced cytosolic protein delivery and highlight the potential of using protein therapeutics as selective CDK4/6 inhibitors for cancer therapy. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Cytosolic delivery of bioactive therapeutic proteins capable of eliciting therapeutic benefit remains a significant challenge. We have previously developed a protein delivery platform based on engineered Pos3Aa protein crystals with excellent cell-permeability and endosomal escape properties. In this report, we describe the rational design of an improved Pos3Aa triple mutant (Pos3AaTM) with enhanced cargo release. We demonstrate that Pos3AaTM-mCherry-p16 fusion crystals can efficiently deliver p16 protein, a CDK4/6 inhibitor frequently inactivated in human cancers, into p16-deficient UM-SCC-22A cells, where it promotes significant G1 cell cycle arrest and cell growth inhibition. These results highlight the ability of the Pos3AaTM platform to promote potent cytosolic delivery of protein therapeutics, and the efficacy of p16 protein delivery as an effective strategy for treating cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zaofeng Yang
- School of Life Sciences and Center of Novel Biomaterials, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, China Hong Kong Special Administrative Region
| | - Meigui Yang
- School of Life Sciences and Center of Novel Biomaterials, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, China Hong Kong Special Administrative Region
| | - Hei-Man Chow
- School of Life Sciences and Center of Novel Biomaterials, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, China Hong Kong Special Administrative Region
| | - Suk Ying Tsang
- School of Life Sciences and Center of Novel Biomaterials, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, China Hong Kong Special Administrative Region; State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, China Hong Kong Special Administrative Region
| | - Marianne M Lee
- School of Life Sciences and Center of Novel Biomaterials, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, China Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.
| | - Michael K Chan
- School of Life Sciences and Center of Novel Biomaterials, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, China Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.
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11
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Stepankova K, Jendelova P, Machova Urdzikova L. Planet of the AAVs: The Spinal Cord Injury Episode. Biomedicines 2021; 9:613. [PMID: 34071245 PMCID: PMC8228984 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9060613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2021] [Revised: 05/22/2021] [Accepted: 05/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The spinal cord injury (SCI) is a medical and life-disrupting condition with devastating consequences for the physical, social, and professional welfare of patients, and there is no adequate treatment for it. At the same time, gene therapy has been studied as a promising approach for the treatment of neurological and neurodegenerative disorders by delivering remedial genes to the central nervous system (CNS), of which the spinal cord is a part. For gene therapy, multiple vectors have been introduced, including integrating lentiviral vectors and non-integrating adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors. AAV vectors are a promising system for transgene delivery into the CNS due to their safety profile as well as long-term gene expression. Gene therapy mediated by AAV vectors shows potential for treating SCI by delivering certain genetic information to specific cell types. This review has focused on a potential treatment of SCI by gene therapy using AAV vectors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katerina Stepankova
- Institute of Experimental Medicine, Czech Academy of Sciences, Vídeňská 1083, 14200 Prague, Czech Republic;
- Department of Neuroscience, Second Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, 15006 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Pavla Jendelova
- Institute of Experimental Medicine, Czech Academy of Sciences, Vídeňská 1083, 14200 Prague, Czech Republic;
- Department of Neuroscience, Second Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, 15006 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Lucia Machova Urdzikova
- Institute of Experimental Medicine, Czech Academy of Sciences, Vídeňská 1083, 14200 Prague, Czech Republic;
- Department of Neuroscience, Second Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, 15006 Prague, Czech Republic
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12
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Abstract
Recombinant viruses are the workhorse of modern neuroscience. Whether one would like to understand a neuron's morphology, natural activity patterns, molecular composition, connectivity or behavioural and physiologic function, most studies begin with the injection of an engineered virus, often an adeno-associated virus or herpes simplex virus, among many other types. Recombinant viruses currently enable some combination of cell type-specific, circuit-selective, activity-dependent and spatiotemporally resolved transgene expression. Viruses are now used routinely to study the molecular and cellular functions of a gene within an identified cell type in the brain, and enable the application of optogenetics, chemogenetics, calcium imaging and related approaches. These advantageous properties of engineered viruses thus enable characterization of neuronal function at unprecedented resolution. However, each virus has specific advantages and disadvantages, which makes viral tool selection paramount for properly designing and executing experiments within the central nervous system. In the current Review, we discuss the key principles and uses of engineered viruses and highlight innovations that are needed moving forward.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander R Nectow
- Department of Medicine, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Eric J Nestler
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA.
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13
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Cuesta S, Nouel D, Reynolds LM, Morgunova A, Torres-Berrío A, White A, Hernandez G, Cooper HM, Flores C. Dopamine Axon Targeting in the Nucleus Accumbens in Adolescence Requires Netrin-1. Front Cell Dev Biol 2020; 8:487. [PMID: 32714924 PMCID: PMC7344302 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.00487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2020] [Accepted: 05/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The fine arrangement of neuronal connectivity during development involves the coordinated action of guidance cues and their receptors. In adolescence, the dopamine circuitry is still developing, with mesolimbic dopamine axons undergoing target-recognition events in the nucleus accumbens (NAcc), while mesocortical projections continue to grow toward the prefrontal cortex (PFC) until adulthood. This segregation of mesolimbic versus mesocortical dopamine pathways is mediated by the guidance cue receptor DCC, which signals dopamine axons intended to innervate the NAcc to recognize this region as their final target. Whether DCC-dependent mesolimbic dopamine axon targeting in adolescence requires the action of its ligand, Netrin-1, is unknown. Here we combined shRNA strategies, quantitative analysis of pre- and post-synaptic markers of neuronal connectivity, and pharmacological manipulations to address this question. Similar to DCC levels in the ventral tegmental area, Netrin-1 expression in the NAcc is dynamic across postnatal life, transitioning from high to low expression across adolescence. Silencing Netrin-1 in the NAcc in adolescence results in an increase in the expanse of the dopamine input to the PFC in adulthood, with a corresponding increase in the number of presynaptic dopamine sites. This manipulation also results in altered dendritic spine density and morphology of medium spiny neurons in the NAcc in adulthood and in reduced sensitivity to the behavioral activating effects of the stimulant drug of abuse, amphetamine. These cellular and behavioral effects mirror those induced by Dcc haploinsufficiency within dopamine neurons in adolescence. Dopamine targeting in adolescence requires the complementary interaction between DCC receptors in mesolimbic dopamine axons and Netrin-1 in the NAcc. Factors regulating either DCC or Netrin-1 in adolescence can disrupt mesocorticolimbic dopamine development, rendering vulnerability or protection to phenotypes associated with psychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Santiago Cuesta
- Department of Psychiatry, Douglas Mental Health University Institute, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Dominique Nouel
- Department of Psychiatry, Douglas Mental Health University Institute, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Lauren M Reynolds
- Department of Psychiatry, Douglas Mental Health University Institute, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada.,Integrated Program in Neuroscience, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Alice Morgunova
- Department of Psychiatry, Douglas Mental Health University Institute, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada.,Integrated Program in Neuroscience, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Angélica Torres-Berrío
- Department of Psychiatry, Douglas Mental Health University Institute, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada.,Integrated Program in Neuroscience, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Amanda White
- Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Giovanni Hernandez
- Department of Psychiatry, Douglas Mental Health University Institute, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Helen M Cooper
- Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Cecilia Flores
- Department of Psychiatry, Douglas Mental Health University Institute, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
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14
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Zhao X, Jin C, Dong T, Sun Z, Zheng X, Feng B, Cheng Z, Li X, Tao Y, Wu H. Characterization of promoters for adeno-associated virus mediated efficient Cas9 activation in adult Cas9 knock-in murine cochleae. Hear Res 2020; 394:107999. [PMID: 32611519 DOI: 10.1016/j.heares.2020.107999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2019] [Revised: 04/30/2020] [Accepted: 05/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing enables the treatment of hearing loss in congenitally deaf neonatal mice via both viral and non-viral delivery. While adeno-associated virus (AAV)-mediated gene delivery systems have been shown to be effective tools for gene replacement in the inner ear, application of the AAV-mediated CRISPR/Cas9 gene-editing approach for this purpose is yet to be documented. Based on our previous findings, we focused on the effects of several AAVs delivered via canalostomy injection in adult mice. Among the AAVs examined, AAV8 showed the greatest efficiency and specificity in transducing inner hair cells (IHC). The ability of Cre-expressing AAV8 to activate Cas9 in floxed-Cas9 knock-in (Cas9 KI) mice was further evaluated. We compared the effects of six different promoters (CMV, CAG, hSyn, CaMKIIa, GFAP, and ALB) of AAV8 delivered to the inner ear of adult Cas9 KI mice. Our findings showed that three AAV groups (CMV, CAG and hSyn promoters) infected the inner ear efficiently with different tropisms. Notably, AAVs with CMV, CAG, and hSyn promoters infected diverse cell types in mature murine cochleae, including IHCs. In particular, AAV8-hSyn showed high affinity to IHCs and spiral ganglion neurons (SGN). Neither the AAV8 virus itself (except AAV8-CAG) nor the surgical procedures used caused damage to HCs or impaired normal hearing. Our findings indicated that injection of AAV-Cre into mature inner ear efficiently induces Cas9 activation to achieve safe and efficient gene editing and different constituent promoters confer diverse infection patterns in cochlea, expanding the repertoire of gene-editing tools for regulating gene expression in target cells of the inner ear as part of the collective effort to rescue genetic hearing loss and develop effective gene therapy techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xingle Zhao
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, No.639, Zhizaoju Road, Shanghai, 200011, PR China; Ear Institute, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, No.115, Jinzun Road, Shanghai, 200011, PR China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Translation Medicine on Ear and Nose Disease, No.115, Jinzun Road, Shanghai, 200011, PR China
| | - Chenxi Jin
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, No.639, Zhizaoju Road, Shanghai, 200011, PR China; Ear Institute, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, No.115, Jinzun Road, Shanghai, 200011, PR China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Translation Medicine on Ear and Nose Disease, No.115, Jinzun Road, Shanghai, 200011, PR China
| | - Tingting Dong
- Ear Institute, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, No.115, Jinzun Road, Shanghai, 200011, PR China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Translation Medicine on Ear and Nose Disease, No.115, Jinzun Road, Shanghai, 200011, PR China; Biobank of Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No.115, Jinzun Road, Shanghai, 200011, PR China
| | - Zhuoer Sun
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, No.639, Zhizaoju Road, Shanghai, 200011, PR China; Ear Institute, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, No.115, Jinzun Road, Shanghai, 200011, PR China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Translation Medicine on Ear and Nose Disease, No.115, Jinzun Road, Shanghai, 200011, PR China
| | - Xiaofei Zheng
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, No.639, Zhizaoju Road, Shanghai, 200011, PR China; Ear Institute, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, No.115, Jinzun Road, Shanghai, 200011, PR China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Translation Medicine on Ear and Nose Disease, No.115, Jinzun Road, Shanghai, 200011, PR China
| | - Baoyi Feng
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, No.639, Zhizaoju Road, Shanghai, 200011, PR China; Ear Institute, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, No.115, Jinzun Road, Shanghai, 200011, PR China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Translation Medicine on Ear and Nose Disease, No.115, Jinzun Road, Shanghai, 200011, PR China
| | - Zhenzhe Cheng
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, No.639, Zhizaoju Road, Shanghai, 200011, PR China; Ear Institute, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, No.115, Jinzun Road, Shanghai, 200011, PR China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Translation Medicine on Ear and Nose Disease, No.115, Jinzun Road, Shanghai, 200011, PR China
| | - Xiang Li
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, No.639, Zhizaoju Road, Shanghai, 200011, PR China; Ear Institute, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, No.115, Jinzun Road, Shanghai, 200011, PR China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Translation Medicine on Ear and Nose Disease, No.115, Jinzun Road, Shanghai, 200011, PR China
| | - Yong Tao
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, No.639, Zhizaoju Road, Shanghai, 200011, PR China; Ear Institute, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, No.115, Jinzun Road, Shanghai, 200011, PR China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Translation Medicine on Ear and Nose Disease, No.115, Jinzun Road, Shanghai, 200011, PR China.
| | - Hao Wu
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, No.639, Zhizaoju Road, Shanghai, 200011, PR China; Ear Institute, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, No.115, Jinzun Road, Shanghai, 200011, PR China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Translation Medicine on Ear and Nose Disease, No.115, Jinzun Road, Shanghai, 200011, PR China.
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15
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Adeno-associated virus vector enables safe and efficient Cas9 activation in neonatal and adult Cas9 knockin murine cochleae. Gene Ther 2020; 27:392-405. [PMID: 32005950 DOI: 10.1038/s41434-020-0124-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2019] [Revised: 11/30/2019] [Accepted: 01/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Adeno-associated virus (AAV)-mediated gene delivery systems have been shown to be effective tools for gene manipulation in the inner ear. For example, hair cells (HCs) and multiple other cell types can be transduced by the local injection of AAVs into the inner ear. However, application of the AAV-mediated CRISPR/Cas9 gene-editing approach to the inner ear in adult mice has not yet been studied. Based on our previous work, we investigated several AAV serotypes in neonatal and adult mice in parallel, and found that AAV8 had the top efficiency to transduce inner HCs. We then tested the ability of Cre-expressing AAV8 to activate Cas9 in floxed-Cas9 knockin mice, and observed significant Cas9 activation in the inner ear of both neonatal and adult animals. Neither the AAV8 virus itself nor the surgical procedures used to deliver it-cochleostomy for neonatal mice and canalostomy for adult mice-caused any damage to HCs or impaired normal hearing. Our studies indicate that the local injection of AAV8-Cre can induce Cas9 activation to perform safe and efficient gene editing in the inner ear, expanding the repertoire of gene-editing tools for regulating gene expression in the inner ear as a part of efforts to rescue genetic hearing loss, initiate regeneration of HCs, or develop gene therapy techniques.
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16
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de Roo JJD, Vloemans SA, Vrolijk H, de Haas EFE, Staal FJT. Development of an in vivo model to study clonal lineage relationships in hematopoietic cells using Brainbow2.1/Confetti mice. Future Sci OA 2019; 5:FSO427. [PMID: 31827896 PMCID: PMC6900974 DOI: 10.2144/fsoa-2019-0083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2019] [Accepted: 09/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Hematopoietic stem cells maintain the homeostasis of all blood cell progeny during development and repopulation-demanding events. To study the lineage relationships during hematopoiesis, increasingly complex cell tracing models are being developed. In this study, we describe adaptations to the original R26R-Confetti mouse model, which subsequently offers a relatively easy approach to study low complexity clonality during hematopoiesis, with special focus on B and T lymphocyte development. This protocol employs spatiotemporal Cre expression controlled by gammaretroviral transduction for efficient fluorescent protein cell marking. Transplantation of fluorescently marked Lin- cKit+ hematopoietic progenitor cells into Rag1-/- mice, resulted in the visualization of differentially contributing stem cell clones to various lineages. Our methodology is useful to study questions in fundamental and preclinical hematopoietic research and in vivo B- and T-cell development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jolanda JD de Roo
- Department of Immunohematology & Blood Transfusion, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Sandra A Vloemans
- Department of Immunohematology & Blood Transfusion, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Hans Vrolijk
- Department of Cell & Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Edwin FE de Haas
- Department of Immunohematology & Blood Transfusion, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Frank JT Staal
- Department of Immunohematology & Blood Transfusion, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
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17
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DePoy LM, Shapiro LP, Kietzman HW, Roman KM, Gourley SL. β1-Integrins in the Developing Orbitofrontal Cortex Are Necessary for Expectancy Updating in Mice. J Neurosci 2019; 39:6644-6655. [PMID: 31253753 PMCID: PMC6703883 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.3072-18.2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2018] [Revised: 05/11/2019] [Accepted: 06/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Navigating a changing environment requires associating stimuli and actions with their likely outcomes and modifying these associations when they change. These processes involve the orbitofrontal cortex (OFC). Although some molecular mediators have been identified, developmental factors are virtually unknown. We hypothesized that the cell adhesion factor β1-integrin is essential to OFC function, anticipating developmental windows during which β1-integrins might be more influential than others. We discovered that OFC-selective β1-integrin silencing before adolescence, but not later, impaired the ability of mice to extinguish conditioned fear and select actions based on their likely outcomes. Early-life knock-down also reduced the densities of dendritic spines, the primary sites of excitatory plasticity in the brain, and weakened sensitivity to cortical inputs. Notwithstanding these defects in male mice, females were resilient to OFC (but not hippocampal) β1-integrin loss. Existing literature suggests that resilience may be explained by estradiol-mediated transactivation of β1-integrins and tropomyosin receptor kinase B (trkB). Accordingly, we discovered that a trkB agonist administered during adolescence corrected reward-related decision making in β1-integrin-deficient males. In sum, developmental β1-integrins are indispensable for OFC function later in life.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT The orbitofrontal cortex (OFC) is a subregion of the frontal cortex that allows organisms to link behaviors and stimuli with anticipated outcomes, and to make predictions about the consequences of one's behavior. Aspects of OFC development are particularly prolonged, extending well into adolescence, likely optimizing organisms' abilities to prospectively calculate the consequences of their actions and select behaviors appropriately; these decision making strategies improve as young individuals mature into adulthood. Molecular factors are not, however, well understood. Our experiments reveal that a cell adhesion protein termed "β1-integrin" is necessary for OFC neuronal maturation and function. Importantly, β1-integrins operate during a critical period equivalent to early adolescence in humans to optimize the ability of organisms to update expectancies later in life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren M DePoy
- Department of Pediatrics
- Department of Psychiatry
- Yerkes National Primate Research Center
- Graduate Program in Neuroscience, and
| | - Lauren P Shapiro
- Department of Pediatrics
- Department of Psychiatry
- Yerkes National Primate Research Center
- Graduate Program in Molecular and Systems Pharmacology, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia 30329
| | - Henry W Kietzman
- Department of Pediatrics
- Department of Psychiatry
- Yerkes National Primate Research Center
- Graduate Program in Neuroscience, and
| | - Kaitlyn M Roman
- Department of Pediatrics
- Department of Psychiatry
- Yerkes National Primate Research Center
- Graduate Program in Neuroscience, and
| | - Shannon L Gourley
- Department of Pediatrics,
- Department of Psychiatry
- Yerkes National Primate Research Center
- Graduate Program in Neuroscience, and
- Graduate Program in Molecular and Systems Pharmacology, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia 30329
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18
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Shi X, Barr JL, von Weltin E, Wolsh C, Unterwald EM. Differential Roles of Accumbal GSK3 β in Cocaine versus Morphine-Induced Place Preference, U50,488H-Induced Place Aversion, and Object Memory. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2019; 371:339-347. [PMID: 31420527 DOI: 10.1124/jpet.119.259283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2019] [Accepted: 07/31/2019] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Previous research has demonstrated that activity of glycogen synthase kinase-3 (GSK3) is necessary for the rewarding effects of cocaine. In the present study, a conditional GSK3β gene knockdown model was used to determine if GSK3β activity specifically in the nucleus accumbens is important for cocaine conditioned reward. The roles of accumbal GSK3β in morphine conditioned reward, trans-(±)-3,4-dichloro-N-methyl-N-[2-(1-pyrrolidinyl)cyclohexyl]benzeneacetamide methanesulfonate salt (U50,488H)-induced conditioned place aversion, and cognitive function were also studied. Adult male and female GSK3β-floxed or wild-type mice were injected with adeno-associated virus/Cre into the nucleus accumbens to reduce expression of GSK3β and underwent behavioral testing 4 weeks later. The development of cocaine-induced conditioned place preference was significantly attenuated in mice with reduced levels of GSK3β in the nucleus accumbens, whereas the development of morphine-induced place preference remained intact. Conditional knockdown of GSK3β in the accumbens prevented the development of conditioned aversion produced by U50,488H, a κ-opioid receptor agonist. Cognitive memory tests revealed deficits in object location memory, but not novel object recognition in mice with accumbal GSK3β knockdown. These data demonstrate that GSK3β in the nucleus accumbens is required for cocaine conditioned place preference and U50,488H conditioned place aversion, as well as spatial memory in object location task, indicating differential roles of GSK3β in the psychostimulant and opiate reward process, as well as in memory for spatial locations and object identity. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: Knockdown of GSK3β in the nucleus accumbens attenuated the development of cocaine-induced place preference, as well as conditioned place aversion to U50,488H, a κ-opioid receptor agonist. In contrast, the development of morphine place preference was not altered by GSK3β knockdown. GSK3β knockdown in nucleus accumbens impaired performance in the object location task, but not the novel object recognition task. These results elucidate different physiological roles of accumbal GSKβ in conditioned reward, aversion, and memory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangdang Shi
- Center for Substance Abuse Research and Department of Pharmacology, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Jeffrey L Barr
- Center for Substance Abuse Research and Department of Pharmacology, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Eva von Weltin
- Center for Substance Abuse Research and Department of Pharmacology, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Cassandra Wolsh
- Center for Substance Abuse Research and Department of Pharmacology, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Ellen M Unterwald
- Center for Substance Abuse Research and Department of Pharmacology, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
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19
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Chavoshinezhad S, Mohseni Kouchesfahani H, Salehi MS, Pandamooz S, Ahmadiani A, Dargahi L. Intranasal interferon beta improves memory and modulates inflammatory responses in a mutant APP-overexpressing rat model of Alzheimer’s disease. Brain Res Bull 2019; 150:297-306. [DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2019.06.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2018] [Revised: 06/01/2019] [Accepted: 06/19/2019] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
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20
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Shapiro LP, Kietzman HW, Guo J, Rainnie DG, Gourley SL. Rho-kinase inhibition has antidepressant-like efficacy and expedites dendritic spine pruning in adolescent mice. Neurobiol Dis 2019; 124:520-530. [PMID: 30593834 PMCID: PMC6365018 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2018.12.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2018] [Revised: 11/15/2018] [Accepted: 12/21/2018] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Adolescence represents a critical period of neurodevelopment, defined by structural and synaptic pruning within the prefrontal cortex. While characteristic of typical development, this structural instability may open a window of vulnerability to developing neuropsychiatric disorders, including depression. Thus, therapeutic interventions that support or expedite neural remodeling in adolescence may be advantageous. Here, we inhibited the neuronally-expressed cytoskeletal regulatory factor Rho-kinase (ROCK), focusing primarily on the clinically-viable ROCK inhibitor fasudil. ROCK inhibition had rapid antidepressant-like effects in adolescent mice, and its efficacy was comparable to ketamine and fluoxetine. It also modified levels of the antidepressant-related signaling factors, tropomyosin/tyrosine receptor kinase B and Akt, as well as the postsynaptic marker PSD-95, in the ventromedial prefrontal cortex (vmPFC). Meanwhile, adolescent-typical dendritic spine pruning on excitatory pyramidal neurons in the vmPFC was expedited. Further, vmPFC-specific shRNA-mediated reduction of ROCK2, the dominant ROCK isoform in the brain, had antidepressant-like consequences. We cautiously suggest that ROCK inhibitors may have therapeutic potential for adolescent-onset depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren P Shapiro
- Molecular and Systems Pharmacology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States; Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States; Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Henry W Kietzman
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States; Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States; Graduate Program in Neuroscience, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Jidong Guo
- Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States; Department of Psychiatry, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Donald G Rainnie
- Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States; Department of Psychiatry, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Shannon L Gourley
- Molecular and Systems Pharmacology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States; Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States; Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States; Graduate Program in Neuroscience, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States; Department of Psychiatry, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States.
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21
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Rezai Amin S, Gruszczynski C, Guiard BP, Callebert J, Launay JM, Louis F, Betancur C, Vialou V, Gautron S. Viral vector-mediated Cre recombinase expression in substantia nigra induces lesions of the nigrostriatal pathway associated with perturbations of dopamine-related behaviors and hallmarks of programmed cell death. J Neurochem 2019; 150:330-340. [PMID: 30748001 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.14684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2018] [Revised: 02/04/2019] [Accepted: 02/06/2019] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Cre/loxP recombination is a widely used approach to study gene function in vivo, using mice models expressing the Cre recombinase under the control of specific promoters or through viral delivery of Cre-expressing constructs. A profuse literature on transgenic mouse lines points out the deleterious effects of Cre expression in various cell types and tissues, presumably by acting on illegitimate loxP-like sites present in the genome. However, most studies reporting the consequences of Cre-lox gene invalidation often omit adequate controls to exclude the potential toxic effects of Cre, compromising the interpretation of data. In this study, we report the anatomical, neurochemical, and behavioral consequences in mice of adeno-associated virus (AAV)-mediated Cre expression in the dopaminergic nuclei substantia nigra, at commonly used viral titers (3 × 109 genome copies/0.3 μL or 2 × 109 genome copies/0.6 μL). We found that injecting AAV-eGFP-Cre into the SN engendered drastic and reproducible modifications of behavior, with increased basal locomotor activity as well as impaired locomotor response to cocaine compared to AAV-eGFP-injected controls. Cre expression in the SN induced a massive decrease in neuronal populations of both pars compacta and pars reticulata and dopamine depletion in the nigrostriatal pathway. This anatomical injury was associated with typical features of programmed cell death, including an increase in DNA break markers, evidence of apoptosis, and disrupted macroautophagy. These observations underscore the need for careful control of Cre toxicity in the brain and the reassessment of previous studies. In addition, our findings suggest that Cre-mediated ablation may constitute an efficient tool to explore the function of specific cell populations and areas in the brain, and the impact of neurodegeneration in these populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Rezai Amin
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, Neuroscience Paris Seine, Institut de Biologie Paris Seine, Paris, France
| | - Carole Gruszczynski
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, Neuroscience Paris Seine, Institut de Biologie Paris Seine, Paris, France
| | - Bruno P Guiard
- Université de Toulouse, CNRS, Centre de Recherches sur la Cognition Animale, Centre de Biologie Intégrative, Toulouse, France
| | - Jacques Callebert
- INSERM U942, Hôpital Lariboisière, Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Jean-Marie Launay
- INSERM U942, Hôpital Lariboisière, Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Franck Louis
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, Neuroscience Paris Seine, Institut de Biologie Paris Seine, Paris, France
| | - Catalina Betancur
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, Neuroscience Paris Seine, Institut de Biologie Paris Seine, Paris, France
| | - Vincent Vialou
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, Neuroscience Paris Seine, Institut de Biologie Paris Seine, Paris, France
| | - Sophie Gautron
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, Neuroscience Paris Seine, Institut de Biologie Paris Seine, Paris, France
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22
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Balkawade RS, Chen C, Crowley MR, Crossman DK, Clapp WL, Verlander JW, Marshall CB. Podocyte-specific expression of Cre recombinase promotes glomerular basement membrane thickening. Am J Physiol Renal Physiol 2019; 316:F1026-F1040. [PMID: 30810063 DOI: 10.1152/ajprenal.00359.2018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Conditional gene targeting using Cre recombinase has offered a powerful tool to modify gene function precisely in defined cells/tissues and at specific times. However, in mammalian cells, Cre recombinase can be genotoxic. The importance of including Cre-expressing control mice to avoid misinterpretation and to maximize the validity of the experimental results has been increasingly recognized. While studying the role of podocytes in the pathogenesis of glomerular basement membrane (GBM) thickening, we used Cre recombinase driven by the podocyte-specific podocin promoter (NPHS2-Cre) to generate a conditional knockout. By conventional structural and functional measures (histology by periodic acid-Schiff staining, albuminuria, and plasma creatinine), we did not detect significant differences between NPHS2-Cre transgenic and wild-type control mice. However, surprisingly, the group that expressed Cre transgene alone developed signs of podocyte toxicity, including marked GBM thickening, loss of normal foot process morphology, and reduced Wilms tumor 1 expression. GBM thickening was characterized by altered expression of core structural protein laminin isoform α5β2γ1. RNA sequencing analysis of extracted glomeruli identified 230 genes that were significant and differentially expressed (applying a q < 0.05-fold change ≥ ±2 cutoff) in NPHS2-Cre mice compared with wild-type control mice. Many biological processes were reflected in the RNA sequencing data, including regulation of the extracellular matrix and pathways related to apoptosis and cell death. This study highlights the importance of including the appropriate controls for potential Cre-mediated toxicity in conditional gene-targeting experiments. Indeed, omitting the Cre transgene control can result in critical errors during interpretation of experimental data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rohan S Balkawade
- Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center , Birmingham, Alabama.,Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham , Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Chao Chen
- Division of Nephrology, Hypertension, and Renal Transplantation, College of Medicine Electron Microscopy Core, University of Florida , Gainesville, Florida
| | - Michael R Crowley
- Heflin Center for Genomic Science, Department of Genetics, University of Alabama at Birmingham , Birmingham, Alabama
| | - David K Crossman
- Heflin Center for Genomic Science, Department of Genetics, University of Alabama at Birmingham , Birmingham, Alabama
| | - William L Clapp
- Department of Pathology, Immunology, and Laboratory Medicine, University of Florida , Gainesville, Florida
| | - Jill W Verlander
- Division of Nephrology, Hypertension, and Renal Transplantation, College of Medicine Electron Microscopy Core, University of Florida , Gainesville, Florida
| | - Caroline B Marshall
- Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center , Birmingham, Alabama.,Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham , Birmingham, Alabama
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23
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A Network Model Reveals That the Experimentally Observed Switch of the Granule Cell Phenotype During Epilepsy Can Maintain the Pattern Separation Function of the Dentate Gyrus. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-99103-0_23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
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24
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In vivo cell type-specific CRISPR knockdown of dopamine beta hydroxylase reduces locus coeruleus evoked wakefulness. Nat Commun 2018; 9:5211. [PMID: 30523254 PMCID: PMC6283864 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-018-07566-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2017] [Accepted: 09/13/2018] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Locus coeruleus (LC) neurons in the brainstem have long been associated with attention and arousal. Optogenetic stimulation of LC-NE neurons induces immediate sleep-to-wake transitions. However, LC neurons also secrete other neurotransmitters in addition to NE. To interrogate the role of NE derived from the LC in regulating wakefulness, we applied in vivo cell type-specific CRISPR/Cas9 technology to disrupt the dopamine beta hydroxylase (dbh) gene selectively in adult LC-NE neurons. Unilateral dbh gene disruption abolished immediate arousal following optogenetic stimulation of LC. Bilateral LC-specific dbh disruption significantly reduced NE concentration in LC projection areas and reduced wake length even in the presence of salient stimuli. These results suggest that NE may be crucial for the awakening effect of LC stimulation and serve as proof-of-principle that CRISPR gene editing in adult neurons can be used to interrogate gene function within genetically-defined neuronal circuitry associated with complex behaviors.
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25
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Wang Y, Hu Z, Ju P, Yin S, Wang F, Pan O, Chen J. Viral vectors as a novel tool for clinical and neuropsychiatric research applications. Gen Psychiatr 2018; 31:e000015. [PMID: 30582128 PMCID: PMC6234968 DOI: 10.1136/gpsych-2018-000015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2018] [Revised: 09/12/2018] [Accepted: 09/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background A viral vector is a genetically modified vector produced by genetic engineering. As pathogenic genes in the virus are completely or largely eliminated, it is safe to be widely used in multidisciplinary research fields for expressing genes, such as neuroscience, metabolism, oncology and so on. Neuroscience and psychiatry are the most closely related disciplines in either basic research or clinical research, but the application of viral vectors in neuropsychiatry has not received much attention or not been widely accepted. Objective This article will focus on the application of viral vectors in basic and clinical neuropsychiatric research. Methods By using viral vectors, scientists can perform neurological labelling, gene expression regulation and physiological manipulation for investigating phenomenon from molecular mechanisms to behaviours. At the same time, to treat mental or neurological disorders, viral vectors can be designed for gene therapy, which alter gene expression levels or repair mutated genes in the brains of patients. Perspective Viral vectors play an important role in basic research and clinical applications. To further understand brain function and prevent mental and neurological diseases, we hypothesize that viral vectors could be used along with various advanced technologies, such as sequencing and high-throughput expression analysis in the neuroscience research field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yao Wang
- Research and development department, OBiO Technology (Shanghai) Corp., Ltd., Shanghai, China.,Marketing department, OBiO Technology (Shanghai) Corp., Ltd., Shanghai, China
| | - Zhiwei Hu
- Marketing department, OBiO Technology (Shanghai) Corp., Ltd., Shanghai, China
| | - Peijun Ju
- Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Psychotic Disorders, Shanghai, China
| | - Shan Yin
- Research and development department, OBiO Technology (Shanghai) Corp., Ltd., Shanghai, China.,Marketing department, OBiO Technology (Shanghai) Corp., Ltd., Shanghai, China
| | - Fujie Wang
- Research and development department, OBiO Technology (Shanghai) Corp., Ltd., Shanghai, China.,Marketing department, OBiO Technology (Shanghai) Corp., Ltd., Shanghai, China
| | - Oudong Pan
- Marketing department, OBiO Technology (Shanghai) Corp., Ltd., Shanghai, China
| | - Jinghong Chen
- Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Psychotic Disorders, Shanghai, China
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26
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Wu Q, Han Y, Tong Q. Current Genetic Techniques in Neural Circuit Control of Feeding and Energy Metabolism. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2018; 1090:211-233. [PMID: 30390293 DOI: 10.1007/978-981-13-1286-1_12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
The current epidemic of obesity and its associated metabolic syndromes imposes unprecedented challenges to our society. Despite intensive research focus on obesity pathogenesis, an effective therapeutic strategy to treat and cure obesity is still lacking. The obesity development is due to a disturbed homeostatic control of feeding and energy expenditure, both of which are controlled by an intricate neural network in the brain. Given the inherent complexity of brain networks in controlling feeding and energy expenditure, the understanding of brain-based pathophysiology for obesity development is limited. One key limiting factor in dissecting neural pathways for feeding and energy expenditure is unavailability of techniques that can be used to effectively reduce the complexity of the brain network to a tractable paradigm, based on which a strong hypothesis can be tested. Excitingly, emerging techniques have been involved to be able to link specific groups of neurons and neural pathways to behaviors (i.e., feeding and energy expenditure). In this chapter, novel techniques especially those based on animal models and viral vector approaches will be discussed. We hope that this chapter will provide readers with a basis that can help to understand the literatures using these techniques and with a guide to apply these exciting techniques to investigate brain mechanisms underlying feeding and energy expenditure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Wu
- Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA. .,Children's Nutrition Research Center, Research Service of Department of Agriculture of USA, Houston, TX, USA.
| | - Yong Han
- Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, USDA-ARS, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Qingchun Tong
- Center for Metabolic and Degenerative Diseases, Brown Foundation Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Texas McGovern Medical School, Houston, TX, USA.
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27
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Boesmans W, Hao MM, Vanden Berghe P. Optogenetic and chemogenetic techniques for neurogastroenterology. Nat Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2018; 15:21-38. [PMID: 29184183 DOI: 10.1038/nrgastro.2017.151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Optogenetics and chemogenetics comprise a wide variety of applications in which genetically encoded actuators and indicators are used to modulate and monitor activity with high cellular specificity. Over the past 10 years, development of these genetically encoded tools has contributed tremendously to our understanding of integrated physiology. In concert with the continued refinement of probes, strategies to target transgene expression to specific cell types have also made much progress in the past 20 years. In addition, the successful implementation of optogenetic and chemogenetic techniques thrives thanks to ongoing advances in live imaging microscopy and optical technology. Although innovation of optogenetic and chemogenetic methods has been primarily driven by researchers studying the central nervous system, these techniques also hold great promise to boost research in neurogastroenterology. In this Review, we describe the different classes of tools that are currently available and give an overview of the strategies to target them to specific cell types in the gut wall. We discuss the possibilities and limitations of optogenetic and chemogenetic technology in the gut and provide an overview of their current use, with a focus on the enteric nervous system. Furthermore, we suggest some experiments that can advance our understanding of how the intrinsic and extrinsic neural networks of the gut control gastrointestinal function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Werend Boesmans
- Laboratory for Enteric Neuroscience (LENS), Translational Research Center for Gastrointestinal Disorders (TARGID), University of Leuven, Herestraat 49, O&N 1 Box 701, 3000 Leuven, Belgium.,Department of Pathology, Maastricht University Medical Center, P. Debeijelaan 25, 6229 HX, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Marlene M Hao
- Laboratory for Enteric Neuroscience (LENS), Translational Research Center for Gastrointestinal Disorders (TARGID), University of Leuven, Herestraat 49, O&N 1 Box 701, 3000 Leuven, Belgium.,Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Pieter Vanden Berghe
- Laboratory for Enteric Neuroscience (LENS), Translational Research Center for Gastrointestinal Disorders (TARGID), University of Leuven, Herestraat 49, O&N 1 Box 701, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
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28
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Savell KE, Day JJ. Applications of CRISPR/Cas9 in the Mammalian Central Nervous System. THE YALE JOURNAL OF BIOLOGY AND MEDICINE 2017; 90:567-581. [PMID: 29259522 PMCID: PMC5733858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Within the central nervous system, gene regulatory mechanisms are crucial regulators of cellular development and function, and dysregulation of these systems is commonly observed in major neuropsychiatric and neurological disorders. However, due to a lack of tools to specifically modulate the genome and epigenome in the central nervous system, many molecular and genetic mechanisms underlying cognitive function and behavior are still unknown. Although genome editing tools have been around for decades, the recent emergence of inexpensive, straightforward, and widely accessible CRISPR/Cas9 systems has led to a revolution in gene editing. The development of the catalytically dead Cas9 (dCas9) expanded this flexibility even further by acting as an anchoring system for fused effector proteins, structural scaffolds, and RNAs. Together, these advances have enabled robust, modular approaches for specific targeting and modification of the local chromatin environment at a single gene. This review highlights these advancements and how the combination of powerful modulatory tools paired with the versatility of CRISPR-Cas9-based systems offer great potential for understanding the underlying genetic and epigenetic contributions of neuronal function, behavior, and neurobiological diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine E. Savell
- Department of Neurobiology and Evelyn F. McKnight Brain Institute, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL
| | - Jeremy J. Day
- Department of Neurobiology and Evelyn F. McKnight Brain Institute, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL
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29
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Large scale matching of function to the genetic identity of retinal ganglion cells. Sci Rep 2017; 7:15395. [PMID: 29133846 PMCID: PMC5684394 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-15741-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2017] [Accepted: 10/30/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Understanding the role of neurons in encoding and transmitting information is a major goal in neuroscience. This requires insight on the data-rich neuronal spiking patterns combined, ideally, with morphology and genetic identity. Electrophysiologists have long experienced the trade-offs between anatomically-accurate single-cell recording techniques and high-density multi-cellular recording methods with poor anatomical correlations. In this study, we present a novel technique that combines large-scale micro-electrode array recordings with genetic identification and the anatomical location of the retinal ganglion cell soma. This was obtained through optogenetic stimulation and subsequent confocal imaging of genetically targeted retinal ganglion cell sub-populations in the mouse. With the many molecular options available for optogenetic gene expression, we view this method as a versatile tool for matching function to genetic classifications, which can be extended to include morphological information if the density of labelled cells is at the correct level.
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30
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Braun DJ, Kalinin S, Feinstein DL. Conditional Depletion of Hippocampal Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor Exacerbates Neuropathology in a Mouse Model of Alzheimer's Disease. ASN Neuro 2017; 9:1759091417696161. [PMID: 28266222 PMCID: PMC5415058 DOI: 10.1177/1759091417696161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Damage occurring to noradrenergic neurons in the locus coeruleus (LC) contributes to the evolution of neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration in a variety of conditions and diseases. One cause of LC damage may be loss of neurotrophic support from LC target regions. We tested this hypothesis by conditional unilateral knockout of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in adult mice. To evaluate the consequences of BDNF loss in the context of neurodegeneration, the mice harbored familial mutations for human amyloid precursor protein and presenilin-1. In these mice, BDNF depletion reduced tyrosine hydroxylase staining, a marker of noradrenergic neurons, in the rostral LC. BDNF depletion also reduced noradrenergic innervation in the hippocampus, the frontal cortex, and molecular layer of the cerebellum, assessed by staining for dopamine beta hydroxylase. BDNF depletion led to an increase in cortical amyloid plaque numbers and size but was without effect on plaque numbers in the striatum, a site with minimal innervation from the LC. Interestingly, cortical Iba1 staining for microglia was reduced by BDNF depletion and was correlated with reduced dopamine beta hydroxylase staining. These data demonstrate that reduction of BDNF levels in an LC target region can cause retrograde damage to LC neurons, leading to exacerbation of neuropathology in distinct LC target areas. Methods to reduce BDNF loss or supplement BDNF levels may be of value to reduce neurodegenerative processes normally limited by LC noradrenergic activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- David J Braun
- 1 Department of Anesthesiology, University of Illinois, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Sergey Kalinin
- 1 Department of Anesthesiology, University of Illinois, Chicago, IL, USA
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31
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Conway JRW, Warren SC, Timpson P. Context-dependent intravital imaging of therapeutic response using intramolecular FRET biosensors. Methods 2017; 128:78-94. [PMID: 28435000 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymeth.2017.04.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2017] [Revised: 03/13/2017] [Accepted: 04/08/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Intravital microscopy represents a more physiologically relevant method for assessing therapeutic response. However, the movement into an in vivo setting brings with it several additional considerations, the primary being the context in which drug activity is assessed. Microenvironmental factors, such as hypoxia, pH, fibrosis, immune infiltration and stromal interactions have all been shown to have pronounced effects on drug activity in a more complex setting, which is often lost in simpler two- or three-dimensional assays. Here we present a practical guide for the application of intravital microscopy, looking at the available fluorescent reporters and their respective expression systems and analysis considerations. Moving in vivo, we also discuss the microscopy set up and methods available for overlaying microenvironmental context to the experimental readouts. This enables a smooth transition into applying higher fidelity intravital imaging to improve the drug discovery process.
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Affiliation(s)
- James R W Conway
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research and The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Cancer Division, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia; St Vincent's Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, University of NSW, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia
| | - Sean C Warren
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research and The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Cancer Division, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia; St Vincent's Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, University of NSW, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia
| | - Paul Timpson
- Garvan Institute of Medical Research and The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Cancer Division, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia; St Vincent's Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, University of NSW, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia.
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32
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Rifkin RA, Moss SJ, Slesinger PA. G Protein-Gated Potassium Channels: A Link to Drug Addiction. Trends Pharmacol Sci 2017; 38:378-392. [PMID: 28188005 DOI: 10.1016/j.tips.2017.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2016] [Revised: 01/08/2017] [Accepted: 01/10/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
G protein-gated inwardly rectifying potassium (GIRK) channels are regulators of neuronal excitability in the brain. Knockout mice lacking GIRK channels display altered behavioral responses to multiple addictive drugs, implicating GIRK channels in addictive behaviors. Here, we review the effects of GIRK subunit deletions on the behavioral response to psychostimulants, such as cocaine and methamphetamine. Additionally, exposure of mice to psychostimulants produces alterations in the surface expression of GIRK channels in multiple types of neurons within the reward system of the brain. Thus, we compare the subcellular mechanisms by which drug exposure appears to alter GIRK expression in multiple cell types and provide an outlook on future studies examining the role of GIRK channels in addiction. A greater understanding of how GIRK channels are regulated by addictive drugs may enable the development of therapies to prevent or treat drug abuse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert A Rifkin
- Fishberg Department of Neuroscience and Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, One Gustave L. Levy Place, New York, NY 10029, USA; Medical Scientist Training Program, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, One Gustave L. Levy Place, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Stephen J Moss
- Dept of Neuroscience, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02155, USA; Dept of Neuroscience, Physiology and Pharmacology, University College London, London, WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Paul A Slesinger
- Fishberg Department of Neuroscience and Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, One Gustave L. Levy Place, New York, NY 10029, USA.
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33
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Animal Models in Glioblastoma: Use in Biology and Developing Therapeutic Strategies. ADVANCES IN BIOLOGY AND TREATMENT OF GLIOBLASTOMA 2017. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-56820-1_9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
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34
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Kleinridders A. Deciphering Brain Insulin Receptor and Insulin-Like Growth Factor 1 Receptor Signalling. J Neuroendocrinol 2016; 28:10.1111/jne.12433. [PMID: 27631195 PMCID: PMC5129466 DOI: 10.1111/jne.12433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2016] [Revised: 09/12/2016] [Accepted: 09/12/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Insulin receptor (IR) and insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF1R) are highly conserved receptor tyrosine kinases that share signalling proteins and are ubiquitously expressed in the brain. Central application of insulin or IGF1 exerts several similar physiological outcomes, varying in strength, whereas disruption of the corresponding receptors in the brain leads to remarkably different effects on brain size and physiology, thus highlighting the unique effects of the corresponding hormone receptors. Central insulin/IGF1 resistance impacts upon various levels of the IR/IGF1R signalling pathways and is a feature of the metabolic syndrome and neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease. The intricacy of brain insulin and IGF1 signalling represents a challenge for the identification of specific IR and IGF1R signalling differences in pathophysiological conditions. The present perspective sheds light on signalling differences and methodologies for specifically deciphering brain IR and IGF1R signalling.
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Affiliation(s)
- A. Kleinridders
- German Institute of Human Nutrition Potsdam‐RehbrueckeCentral Regulation of MetabolismNuthetalGermany
- German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD)NeuherbergGermany
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35
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Inhibition of IKKβ Reduces Ethanol Consumption in C57BL/6J Mice. eNeuro 2016; 3:eN-NWR-0256-16. [PMID: 27822501 PMCID: PMC5086799 DOI: 10.1523/eneuro.0256-16.2016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2016] [Accepted: 09/12/2016] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Proinflammatory pathways in neuronal and non-neuronal cells are implicated in the acute and chronic effects of alcohol exposure in animal models and humans. The nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) family of DNA transcription factors plays important roles in inflammatory diseases. The kinase IKKβ mediates the phosphorylation and subsequent proteasomal degradation of cytosolic protein inhibitors of NF-κB, leading to activation of NF-κB. The role of IKKβ as a potential regulator of excessive alcohol drinking had not previously been investigated. Based on previous findings that the overactivation of innate immune/inflammatory signaling promotes ethanol consumption, we hypothesized that inhibiting IKKβ would limit/decrease drinking by preventing the activation of NF-κB. We studied the systemic effects of two pharmacological inhibitors of IKKβ, TPCA-1 and sulfasalazine, on ethanol intake using continuous- and limited-access, two-bottle choice drinking tests in C57BL/6J mice. In both tests, TPCA-1 and sulfasalazine reduced ethanol intake and preference without changing total fluid intake or sweet taste preference. A virus expressing Cre recombinase was injected into the nucleus accumbens and central amygdala to selectively knock down IKKβ in mice genetically engineered with a conditional Ikkb deletion (IkkbF/F). Although IKKβ was inhibited to some extent in astrocytes and microglia, neurons were a primary cellular target. Deletion of IKKβ in either brain region reduced ethanol intake and preference in the continuous access two-bottle choice test without altering the preference for sucrose. Pharmacological and genetic inhibition of IKKβ decreased voluntary ethanol consumption, providing initial support for IKKβ as a potential therapeutic target for alcohol abuse.
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36
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Gore BB, Soden ME, Zweifel LS. Manipulating gene expression in projection-specific neuronal populations using combinatorial viral approaches. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016; 65:4.35.1-20. [PMID: 25429312 DOI: 10.1002/0471142301.ns0435s65] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
The mammalian brain contains tremendous structural and genetic complexity that is vital for its function. The elucidation of gene expression profiles in the brain, coupled with the development of large-scale connectivity maps and emerging viral vector-based approaches for target-selective gene manipulation, now allow for detailed dissection of gene-circuit interfaces. This protocol details how to perform combinatorial viral injections to manipulate gene expression in subsets of neurons interconnecting two brain regions. This method utilizes stereotaxic injection of a retrograde transducing CAV2-Cre virus into one brain region, combined with injection of a locally transducing Cre-dependent AAV virus into another brain region. This technique is widely applicable to the genetic dissection of neural circuitry, as it enables selective expression of candidate genes, dominant-negatives, fluorescent reporters, or genetic tools within heterogeneous populations of neurons based upon their projection targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bryan B Gore
- Department of Pharmacology and Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | - Marta E Soden
- Department of Pharmacology and Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | - Larry S Zweifel
- Department of Pharmacology and Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
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37
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Benedykcinska A, Ferreira A, Lau J, Broni J, Richard-Loendt A, Henriquez NV, Brandner S. Generation of brain tumours in mice by Cre-mediated recombination of neural progenitors in situ with the tamoxifen metabolite endoxifen. Dis Model Mech 2015; 9:211-20. [PMID: 26704996 PMCID: PMC4770146 DOI: 10.1242/dmm.022715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2015] [Accepted: 12/21/2015] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Targeted cell- or region-specific gene recombination is widely used in the functional analysis of genes implicated in development and disease. In the brain, targeted gene recombination has become a mainstream approach to study neurodegeneration or tumorigenesis. The use of the Cre-loxP system to study tumorigenesis in the adult central nervous system (CNS) can be limited, when the promoter (such as GFAP) is also transiently expressed during development, which can result in the recombination of progenies of different lineages. Engineering of transgenic mice expressing Cre recombinase fused to a mutant of the human oestrogen receptor (ER) allows the circumvention of transient developmental Cre expression by inducing recombination in the adult organism. The recombination of loxP sequences occurs only in the presence of tamoxifen. Systemic administration of tamoxifen can, however, exhibit toxicity and might also recombine unwanted cell populations if the promoter driving Cre expression is active at the time of tamoxifen administration. Here, we report that a single site-specific injection of an active derivative of tamoxifen successfully activates Cre recombinase and selectively recombines tumour suppressor genes in neural progenitor cells of the subventricular zone in mice, and we demonstrate its application in a model for the generation of intrinsic brain tumours.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Benedykcinska
- Department of Neurodegenerative Disease, UCL Institute of Neurology, Queen Square, London WC1N 3BG, UK
| | - Andreia Ferreira
- Department of Neurodegenerative Disease, UCL Institute of Neurology, Queen Square, London WC1N 3BG, UK
| | - Joanne Lau
- Department of Neurodegenerative Disease, UCL Institute of Neurology, Queen Square, London WC1N 3BG, UK
| | - Jessica Broni
- Department of Neurodegenerative Disease, UCL Institute of Neurology, Queen Square, London WC1N 3BG, UK
| | - Angela Richard-Loendt
- Department of Neurodegenerative Disease, UCL Institute of Neurology, Queen Square, London WC1N 3BG, UK
| | - Nico V Henriquez
- Department of Neurodegenerative Disease, UCL Institute of Neurology, Queen Square, London WC1N 3BG, UK
| | - Sebastian Brandner
- Department of Neurodegenerative Disease, UCL Institute of Neurology, Queen Square, London WC1N 3BG, UK Division of Neuropathology, The National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, Queen Square, London WC1N 3BG, UK
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Expressing Constitutively Active Rheb in Adult Neurons after a Complete Spinal Cord Injury Enhances Axonal Regeneration beyond a Chondroitinase-Treated Glial Scar. J Neurosci 2015; 35:11068-80. [PMID: 26245968 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.0719-15.2015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
UNLABELLED After a spinal cord injury (SCI), CNS axons fail to regenerate, resulting in permanent deficits. This is due to: (1) the presence of inhibitory molecules, e.g., chondroitin sulfate proteoglycans (CSPG), in the glial scar at the lesion; and (2) the diminished growth capacity of adult neurons. We sought to determine whether expressing a constitutively active form of the GTPase Rheb (caRheb) in adult neurons after a complete SCI in rats improves intrinsic growth potential to result in axon regeneration out of a growth-supportive peripheral nerve grafted (PNG) into the SCI cavity. We also hypothesized that treating the glial scar with chondroitinase ABC (ChABC), which digests CSPG, would further allow caRheb-transduced neurons to extend axons across the distal graft interface. We found that targeting this pathway at a clinically relevant post-SCI time point improves both sprouting and regeneration of axons. CaRheb increased the number of axons, but not the number of neurons, that projected into the PNG, indicative of augmented sprouting. We also saw that caRheb enhanced sprouting far rostral to the injury. CaRheb not only increased growth rostral and into the graft, it also resulted in significantly more regrowth of axons across a ChABC-treated scar into caudal spinal cord. CaRheb(+) neurons had higher levels of growth-associated-43, suggestive of a newly identified mechanism for mTOR-mediated enhancement of regeneration. Thus, we demonstrate for the first time that simultaneously addressing intrinsic and scar-associated, extrinsic impediments to regeneration results in significant regrowth beyond an extremely challenging, complete SCI site. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT After spinal cord injury (SCI), CNS axons fail to regenerate, resulting in permanent deficits. This is due to the diminished growth capacity of adult neurons and the presence of inhibitory molecules in the scar at the lesion. We sought to simultaneously counter both of these obstacles to achieve more robust regeneration after complete SCI. We transduced neurons postinjury to express a constitutively active Rheb to enhance their intrinsic growth potential, transplanted a growth supporting peripheral nerve graft into the lesion cavity, and enzymatically modulated the inhibitory glial scar distal to the graft. We demonstrate, for the first time, that simultaneously addressing neuron-related, intrinsic deficits in axon regrowth and extrinsic, scar-associated impediments to regeneration results in significant regeneration after SCI.
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Lin Y, Wan JQ, Gao GY, Pan YH, Ding SH, Fan YL, Wang Y, Jiang JY. Direct hippocampal injection of pseudo lentivirus-delivered nerve growth factor gene rescues the damaged cognitive function after traumatic brain injury in the rat. Biomaterials 2015; 69:148-57. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2015.08.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2015] [Revised: 07/31/2015] [Accepted: 08/04/2015] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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Berry M, Ahmed Z, Morgan-Warren P, Fulton D, Logan A. Prospects for mTOR-mediated functional repair after central nervous system trauma. Neurobiol Dis 2015; 85:99-110. [PMID: 26459109 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2015.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2015] [Revised: 09/09/2015] [Accepted: 10/08/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent research has suggested that the growth of central nervous system (CNS) axons during development is mediated through the PI3K/Akt/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) intracellular signalling axis and that suppression of activity in this pathway occurs during maturity as levels of the phosphatase and tensin homologue (PTEN) rise and inhibit PI3K activation of mTOR, accounting for the failure of axon regeneration in the injured adult CNS. This hypothesis is supported by findings confirming that suppression of PTEN in experimental adult animals promotes impressive axon regeneration in the injured visual and corticospinal motor systems. This review focuses on these recent developments, discussing the therapeutic potential of a mTOR-based treatment aimed at promoting functional recovery in CNS trauma patients, recognising that to fulfil this ambition, the new therapy should aim to promote not only axon regeneration but also remyelination of regenerated axons, neuronal survival and re-innervation of denervated targets through accurate axonal guidance and synaptogenesis, all with minimal adverse effects. The translational challenges presented by the implementation of this new axogenic therapy are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Berry
- Neurotrauma Research Group, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - Zubair Ahmed
- Neurotrauma Research Group, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK.
| | - Peter Morgan-Warren
- Neurotrauma Research Group, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - Daniel Fulton
- Neurotrauma Research Group, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - Ann Logan
- Neurotrauma Research Group, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
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Hoyng SA, De Winter F, Gnavi S, van Egmond L, Attwell CL, Tannemaat MR, Verhaagen J, Malessy MJA. Gene delivery to rat and human Schwann cells and nerve segments: a comparison of AAV 1–9 and lentiviral vectors. Gene Ther 2015; 22:767-80. [DOI: 10.1038/gt.2015.47] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2014] [Revised: 03/29/2015] [Accepted: 04/27/2015] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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Sanzey M, Abdul Rahim SA, Oudin A, Dirkse A, Kaoma T, Vallar L, Herold-Mende C, Bjerkvig R, Golebiewska A, Niclou SP. Comprehensive analysis of glycolytic enzymes as therapeutic targets in the treatment of glioblastoma. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0123544. [PMID: 25932951 PMCID: PMC4416792 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0123544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2014] [Accepted: 03/05/2015] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Major efforts have been put in anti-angiogenic treatment for glioblastoma (GBM), an aggressive and highly vascularized brain tumor with dismal prognosis. However clinical outcome with anti-angiogenic agents has been disappointing and tumors quickly develop escape mechanisms. In preclinical GBM models we have recently shown that bevacizumab, a blocking antibody against vascular endothelial growth factor, induces hypoxia in treated tumors, which is accompanied by increased glycolytic activity and tumor invasiveness. Genome-wide transcriptomic analysis of patient derived GBM cells including stem cell lines revealed a strong up-regulation of glycolysis-related genes in response to severe hypoxia. We therefore investigated the importance of glycolytic enzymes in GBM adaptation and survival under hypoxia, both in vitro and in vivo. We found that shRNA-mediated attenuation of glycolytic enzyme expression interfered with GBM growth under normoxic and hypoxic conditions in all cellular models. Using intracranial GBM xenografts we identified seven glycolytic genes whose knockdown led to a dramatic survival benefit in mice. The most drastic effect was observed for PFKP (PFK1, +21.8%) and PDK1 (+20.9%), followed by PGAM1 and ENO1 (+14.5% each), HK2 (+11.8%), ALDOA (+10.9%) and ENO2 (+7.2%). The increase in mouse survival after genetic interference was confirmed using chemical inhibition of PFK1 with clotrimazole. We thus provide a comprehensive analysis on the importance of the glycolytic pathway for GBM growth in vivo and propose PFK1 and PDK1 as the most promising therapeutic targets to address the metabolic escape mechanisms of GBM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Morgane Sanzey
- NorLux Neuro-Oncology Laboratory, Department of Oncology, Luxembourg Institute of Health (L.I.H.), Luxembourg, Luxembourg
| | - Siti Aminah Abdul Rahim
- NorLux Neuro-Oncology Laboratory, Department of Oncology, Luxembourg Institute of Health (L.I.H.), Luxembourg, Luxembourg
| | - Anais Oudin
- NorLux Neuro-Oncology Laboratory, Department of Oncology, Luxembourg Institute of Health (L.I.H.), Luxembourg, Luxembourg
| | - Anne Dirkse
- NorLux Neuro-Oncology Laboratory, Department of Oncology, Luxembourg Institute of Health (L.I.H.), Luxembourg, Luxembourg
| | - Tony Kaoma
- Genomics Research Unit, Luxembourg Institute of Health (L.I.H.), Luxembourg, Luxembourg
| | - Laurent Vallar
- Genomics Research Unit, Luxembourg Institute of Health (L.I.H.), Luxembourg, Luxembourg
| | - Christel Herold-Mende
- Experimental Neurosurgery, Department of Neurosurgery, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Rolf Bjerkvig
- NorLux Neuro-Oncology Laboratory, Department of Oncology, Luxembourg Institute of Health (L.I.H.), Luxembourg, Luxembourg
- NorLux Neuro-Oncology Laboratory, Department of Biomedicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- KG Jebsen Brain Tumour Research Center, Department of Biomedicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Anna Golebiewska
- NorLux Neuro-Oncology Laboratory, Department of Oncology, Luxembourg Institute of Health (L.I.H.), Luxembourg, Luxembourg
| | - Simone P. Niclou
- NorLux Neuro-Oncology Laboratory, Department of Oncology, Luxembourg Institute of Health (L.I.H.), Luxembourg, Luxembourg
- KG Jebsen Brain Tumour Research Center, Department of Biomedicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- * E-mail:
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A restricted population of CB1 cannabinoid receptors with neuroprotective activity. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2014; 111:8257-62. [PMID: 24843137 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1400988111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 121] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The CB1 cannabinoid receptor, the main molecular target of endocannabinoids and cannabis active components, is the most abundant G protein-coupled receptor in the mammalian brain. Of note, CB1 receptors are expressed at the synapses of two opposing (i.e., GABAergic/inhibitory and glutamatergic/excitatory) neuronal populations, so the activation of one and/or another receptor population may conceivably evoke different effects. Despite the widely reported neuroprotective activity of the CB1 receptor in animal models, the precise pathophysiological relevance of those two CB1 receptor pools in neurodegenerative processes is unknown. Here, we first induced excitotoxic damage in the mouse brain by (i) administering quinolinic acid to conditional mutant animals lacking CB1 receptors selectively in GABAergic or glutamatergic neurons, and (ii) manipulating corticostriatal glutamatergic projections remotely with a designer receptor exclusively activated by designer drug pharmacogenetic approach. We next examined the alterations that occur in the R6/2 mouse, a well-established model of Huntington disease, upon (i) fully knocking out CB1 receptors, and (ii) deleting CB1 receptors selectively in corticostriatal glutamatergic or striatal GABAergic neurons. The data unequivocally identify the restricted population of CB1 receptors located on glutamatergic terminals as an indispensable player in the neuroprotective activity of (endo)cannabinoids, therefore suggesting that this precise receptor pool constitutes a promising target for neuroprotective therapeutic strategies.
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Alves JN, Muir EM, Andrews MR, Ward A, Michelmore N, Dasgupta D, Verhaagen J, Moloney EB, Keynes RJ, Fawcett JW, Rogers JH. AAV vector-mediated secretion of chondroitinase provides a sensitive tracer for axonal arborisations. J Neurosci Methods 2014; 227:107-20. [PMID: 24583077 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneumeth.2014.02.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2013] [Revised: 02/14/2014] [Accepted: 02/19/2014] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
As part of a project to express chondroitinase ABC (ChABC) in neurons of the central nervous system, we have inserted a modified ChABC gene into an adeno-associated viral (AAV) vector and injected it into the vibrissal motor cortex in adult rats to determine the extent and distribution of expression of the enzyme. A similar vector for expression of green fluorescent protein (GFP) was injected into the same location. For each vector, two versions with minor differences were used, giving similar results. After 4 weeks, the brains were stained to show GFP and products of chondroitinase digestion. Chondroitinase was widely expressed, and the AAV-ChABC and AAV-GFP vectors gave similar expression patterns in many respects, consistent with the known projections from the directly transduced neurons in vibrissal motor cortex and adjacent cingulate cortex. In addition, diffusion of vector to deeper neuronal populations led to labelling of remote projection fields which was much more extensive with AAV-ChABC than with AAV-GFP. The most notable of these populations are inferred to be neurons of cortical layer 6, projecting widely in the thalamus, and neurons of the anterior pole of the hippocampus, projecting through most of the hippocampus. We conclude that, whereas GFP does not label the thinnest axonal branches of some neuronal types, chondroitinase is efficiently secreted from these arborisations and enables their extent to be sensitively visualised. After 12 weeks, chondroitinase expression was undiminished.
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Affiliation(s)
- João Nuno Alves
- John van Geest Centre for Brain Repair, Forvie Site, Robinson Way, Cambridge CB2 0PY, UK; Department of Physiology Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Downing Street, Cambridge CB2 3EG, UK
| | - Elizabeth M Muir
- Department of Physiology Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Downing Street, Cambridge CB2 3EG, UK
| | - Melissa R Andrews
- John van Geest Centre for Brain Repair, Forvie Site, Robinson Way, Cambridge CB2 0PY, UK
| | - Anneliese Ward
- Department of Physiology Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Downing Street, Cambridge CB2 3EG, UK
| | - Nicholas Michelmore
- Department of Physiology Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Downing Street, Cambridge CB2 3EG, UK
| | - Debayan Dasgupta
- Department of Physiology Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Downing Street, Cambridge CB2 3EG, UK
| | - Joost Verhaagen
- Laboratory for Neuroregeneration, Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, Meibergdreef 47, 1105BA Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Elizabeth B Moloney
- Laboratory for Neuroregeneration, Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, Meibergdreef 47, 1105BA Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Roger J Keynes
- Department of Physiology Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Downing Street, Cambridge CB2 3EG, UK
| | - James W Fawcett
- John van Geest Centre for Brain Repair, Forvie Site, Robinson Way, Cambridge CB2 0PY, UK
| | - John H Rogers
- Department of Physiology Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Downing Street, Cambridge CB2 3EG, UK.
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Alves CH, Pellissier LP, Vos RM, Garcia Garrido M, Sothilingam V, Seide C, Beck SC, Klooster J, Furukawa T, Flannery JG, Verhaagen J, Seeliger MW, Wijnholds J. Targeted ablation of Crb2 in photoreceptor cells induces retinitis pigmentosa. Hum Mol Genet 2014; 23:3384-401. [PMID: 24493795 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddu048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
In humans, the Crumbs homolog-1 (CRB1) gene is mutated in autosomal recessive Leber congenital amaurosis and early-onset retinitis pigmentosa. In mammals, the Crumbs family is composed of: CRB1, CRB2, CRB3A and CRB3B. Recently, we showed that removal of mouse Crb2 from retinal progenitor cells, and consequent removal from Müller glial and photoreceptor cells, results in severe and progressive retinal degeneration with concomitant loss of retinal function that mimics retinitis pigmentosa due to mutations in the CRB1 gene. Here, we studied the effects of cell-type-specific loss of CRB2 from the developing mouse retina using targeted conditional deletion of Crb2 in photoreceptors or Müller cells. We analyzed the consequences of targeted loss of CRB2 in the adult mouse retina using adeno-associated viral vectors encoding Cre recombinase and short hairpin RNA against Crb2. In vivo retinal imaging by means of optical coherence tomography on retinas lacking CRB2 in photoreceptors showed progressive thinning of the photoreceptor layer and cellular mislocalization. Electroretinogram recordings under scotopic conditions showed severe attenuation of the a-wave, confirming the degeneration of photoreceptors. Retinas lacking CRB2 in developing photoreceptors showed early onset of abnormal lamination, whereas retinas lacking CRB2 in developing Müller cells showed late onset retinal disorganization. Our data suggest that in the developing retina, CRB2 has redundant functions in Müller glial cells, while CRB2 has essential functions in photoreceptors. Our data suggest that short-term loss of CRB2 in adult mouse photoreceptors, but not in Müller glial cells, causes sporadic loss of adhesion between photoreceptors and Müller cells.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Marina Garcia Garrido
- Division of Ocular Neurodegeneration, Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Centre for Ophthalmology, Eberhard Karls University of Tübingen, Tübingen D-72076, Germany
| | - Vithiyanjali Sothilingam
- Division of Ocular Neurodegeneration, Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Centre for Ophthalmology, Eberhard Karls University of Tübingen, Tübingen D-72076, Germany
| | - Christina Seide
- Division of Ocular Neurodegeneration, Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Centre for Ophthalmology, Eberhard Karls University of Tübingen, Tübingen D-72076, Germany
| | - Susanne C Beck
- Division of Ocular Neurodegeneration, Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Centre for Ophthalmology, Eberhard Karls University of Tübingen, Tübingen D-72076, Germany
| | | | - Takahisa Furukawa
- Institute for Protein Research & CREST-JST, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan Department of Developmental Biology, Osaka Bioscience Institute, Suita, Osaka, Japan and
| | - John G Flannery
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology and The Helen Wills Neuroscience Institute, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Joost Verhaagen
- Department of Neuroregeneration, The Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences (KNAW), Meibergdreef 47, 1105 BA Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Mathias W Seeliger
- Division of Ocular Neurodegeneration, Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Centre for Ophthalmology, Eberhard Karls University of Tübingen, Tübingen D-72076, Germany
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Fagoe ND, Eggers R, Verhaagen J, Mason MRJ. A compact dual promoter adeno-associated viral vector for efficient delivery of two genes to dorsal root ganglion neurons. Gene Ther 2013; 21:242-52. [PMID: 24285216 DOI: 10.1038/gt.2013.71] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2013] [Revised: 10/23/2013] [Accepted: 10/24/2013] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Adeno-associated viral (AAV) vectors based on serotype 5 are an efficient means to target dorsal root ganglia (DRG) to study gene function in the primary sensory neurons of the peripheral nervous system. In this study, we have developed a compact AAV dual promoter vector composed of the cytomegalovirus (CMV) and chicken beta-actin (CAG) promoters in a back-to-back configuration with a shared enhancer, and show efficient expression of two proteins simultaneously in DRG neurons. We demonstrate how this is useful for experiments on axonal regeneration, by co-expressing a gene of interest and an axonal marker. Using a farnesylated form of eGFP, which is actively transported along axons, we show superior long-distance labelling of axons of DRG neurons compared with normal eGFP. Additionally, we have efficiently transduced lumbar DRG neurons by injecting the AAV dual promoter vector into the dorsal intrathecal space, which is a less invasive delivery method. In summary, we have developed an AAV dual promoter vector designed for simultaneous expression of a gene of interest and a fluorescent protein to label long-distance axonal projections, which allows specific quantification of axons from transduced neurons after injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- N D Fagoe
- Laboratory for Neuroregeneration, Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, an Institute of the Royal Academy of Arts and Sciences, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - R Eggers
- Laboratory for Neuroregeneration, Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, an Institute of the Royal Academy of Arts and Sciences, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - J Verhaagen
- 1] Laboratory for Neuroregeneration, Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, an Institute of the Royal Academy of Arts and Sciences, Amsterdam, The Netherlands [2] Center for Neurogenomics and Cognition Research, Neuroscience Campus Amsterdam, Vrije Universtiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - M R J Mason
- Laboratory for Neuroregeneration, Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, an Institute of the Royal Academy of Arts and Sciences, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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47
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Guo P, Xiao X, El-Gohary Y, Criscimanna A, Prasadan K, Rymer C, Shiota C, Wiersch J, Gaffar I, Esni F, Gittes GK. Specific transduction and labeling of pancreatic ducts by targeted recombinant viral infusion into mouse pancreatic ducts. J Transl Med 2013; 93:1241-53. [PMID: 24100509 DOI: 10.1038/labinvest.2013.113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2013] [Revised: 08/05/2013] [Accepted: 08/16/2013] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Specific labeling of pancreatic ducts has proven to be quite difficult. Such labeling has been highly sought after because of the power it would confer to studies of pancreatic ductal carcinogenesis, as well as studies of the source of new insulin-producing β-cells. Cre-loxp recombination could, in theory, lineage-tag pancreatic ducts, but results have been conflicting, mainly due to low labeling efficiencies. Here, we achieved a high pancreatic duct labeling efficiency using a recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV) with a duct-specific sox9 promoter infused into the mouse common biliary/pancreatic duct. We saw rapid, diffuse duct-specific labeling, with 50 and 89% labeling in the pancreatic tail and head region, respectively. This highly specific labeling of ducts should greatly enhance our ability to study the role of pancreatic ducts in numerous aspects of pancreatic growth, development and function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ping Guo
- Division of Pediatric General and Thoracic Surgery, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, One Children Hospital Drive, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
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Increased hippocampal neurogenesis and accelerated response to antidepressants in mice with specific deletion of CREB in the hippocampus: role of cAMP response-element modulator τ. J Neurosci 2013; 33:13673-85. [PMID: 23966689 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.1669-13.2013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The transcription factor cAMP response element-binding protein (CREB) has been implicated in the pathophysiology of depression as well as in the efficacy of antidepressant treatment. However, altering CREB levels appears to have differing effects on anxiety- and depression-related behaviors, depending on which brain region is examined. Furthermore, many manipulations of CREB lead to corresponding changes in other CREB family proteins, and the impact of these changes has been largely ignored. To further investigate the region-specific importance of CREB in depression-related behavior and antidepressant response, we used Creb(loxP/loxP) mice to localize CREB deletion to the hippocampus. In an assay sensitive to chronic antidepressant response, the novelty-induced hypophagia procedure, hippocampal CREB deletion, did not alter the response to chronic antidepressant treatment. In contrast, mice with hippocampal CREB deletion responded to acute antidepressant treatment in this task, and this accelerated response was accompanied by an increase in hippocampal neurogenesis. Upregulation of the CREB-family protein cAMP response-element modulator (CREM) was observed after CREB deletion. Viral overexpression of the activator isoform of CREM, CREMτ, in the hippocampus also resulted in an accelerated response to antidepressants as well as increased hippocampal neurogenesis. This is the first demonstration of CREMτ within the brain playing a role in behavior and specifically in behavioral outcomes following antidepressant treatment. The current results suggest that activation of CREMτ may provide a means to accelerate the therapeutic efficacy of current antidepressant treatment.
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Soden ME, Gore BB, Zweifel LS. Defining functional gene-circuit interfaces in the mouse nervous system. GENES BRAIN AND BEHAVIOR 2013; 13:2-12. [PMID: 24007626 DOI: 10.1111/gbb.12082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2013] [Revised: 07/18/2013] [Accepted: 08/30/2013] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Complexity in the nervous system is established by developmental genetic programs, maintained by differential genetic profiles and sculpted by experiential and environmental influence over gene expression. Determining how specific genes define neuronal phenotypes, shape circuit connectivity and regulate circuit function is essential for understanding how the brain processes information, directs behavior and adapts to changing environments. Mouse genetics has contributed greatly to current percepts of gene-circuit interfaces in behavior, but considerable work remains. Large-scale initiatives to map gene expression and connectivity in the brain, together with advanced techniques in molecular genetics, now allow detailed exploration of the genetic basis of nervous system function at the level of specific circuit connections. In this review, we highlight several key advances for defining the function of specific genes within a neural network.
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Affiliation(s)
- M E Soden
- Department of Pharmacology; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
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Hillestad ML, Guenzel AJ, Nath KA, Barry MA. A vector-host system to fingerprint virus tropism. Hum Gene Ther 2013; 23:1116-26. [PMID: 22834781 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2011.116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Reporter genes are important tools for assessing vector pharmacology in vivo. Although useful, current systems are limited by (1) the need to generate a new vector for each different reporter, (2) the inability to package reporter genes in small vectors, and (3) variations in reporter gene feedback due to variations in cell-to-cell vector copy number. To circumvent these problems, we have used Cre recombinase as a "cat's paw" to activate reporter genes embedded in transgenic mice. The small Cre gene was introduced into self-complementary adeno-associated viral (scAAV) vectors with limited packaging capacity. Injection of scAAV-Cre vectors into mice with loxP-inactivated luciferase enabled in vivo imaging distributions comparable to the signal observed after AAV-luciferase injection. When injected into mT/mG mice, AAV-Cre converted ubiquitous expression of red fluorescent protein (RFP) to green fluorescent protein (GFP) expression only where the vectors transduced cells. Injection into F(1) hybrid luciferase and mT/mG mice enabled simultaneous three-reporter tracking. This system was able to discriminate cell-specific transduction in all organs tested, with particular usefulness for detecting AAV serotype-specific transduction in the liver, kidney, and muscle. Given that F(1) mice bear exactly one copy of luciferase and one copy of RFP-GFP, each reporter gene is either "on" or "off" in a cell. The Cre system therefore provides a unique quantum method to quantify vector delivery that can be applied when vector capacity is limited.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew L Hillestad
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
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