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Lu W, Lee BS, Deng HXY, Lakonishok M, Martin-Blanco E, Gelfand VI. "Mitotic" kinesin-5 is a dynamic brake for axonal growth. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.09.12.612721. [PMID: 39314406 PMCID: PMC11419024 DOI: 10.1101/2024.09.12.612721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/25/2024]
Abstract
During neuronal development, neurons undergo significant microtubule reorganization to shape axons and dendrites, establishing the framework for efficient wiring of the nervous system. Previous studies from our laboratory demonstrated the key role of kinesin-1 in driving microtubule-microtubule sliding, which provides the mechanical forces necessary for early axon outgrowth and regeneration in Drosophila melanogaster. In this study, we reveal the critical role of kinesin-5, a mitotic motor, in modulating the development of postmitotic neurons. Kinesin-5, a conserved homotetrameric motor, typically functions in mitosis by sliding antiparallel microtubules apart in the spindle. Here, we demonstrate that the Drosophila kinesin-5 homolog, Klp61F, is expressed in larval brain neurons, with high levels in ventral nerve cord (VNC) neurons. Knockdown of Klp61F using a pan-neuronal driver leads to severe locomotion defects and complete lethality in adult flies, mainly due to the absence of kinesin-5 in VNC motor neurons during early larval development. Klp61F depletion results in significant axon growth defects, both in cultured and in vivo neurons. By imaging individual microtubules, we observe a significant increase in microtubule motility, and excessive penetration of microtubules into the axon growth cone in Klp61F-depleted neurons. Adult lethality and axon growth defects are fully rescued by a chimeric human-Drosophila kinesin-5 motor, which accumulates at the axon tips, suggesting a conserved role of kinesin-5 in neuronal development. Altogether, our findings show that at the growth cone, kinesin-5 acts as a brake on kinesin-1-driven microtubule sliding, preventing premature microtubule entry into the growth cone. This regulatory role of kinesin-5 is essential for precise axon pathfinding during nervous system development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen Lu
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Brad S Lee
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Helen Xue Ying Deng
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Margot Lakonishok
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Enrique Martin-Blanco
- Instituto de Biología Molecular de Barcelona, CSIC, Parc Cientific de Barcelona, Baldiri Reixac 10-12, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Vladimir I Gelfand
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
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2
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Duarte VN, Lam VT, Rimicci DS, Thompson-Peer KL. Calcium plays an essential role in early-stage dendrite injury detection and regeneration. Prog Neurobiol 2024; 239:102635. [PMID: 38825174 PMCID: PMC11305834 DOI: 10.1016/j.pneurobio.2024.102635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2023] [Revised: 05/21/2024] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/04/2024]
Abstract
Dendrites are injured in a variety of clinical conditions such as traumatic brain and spinal cord injuries and stroke. How neurons detect injury directly to their dendrites to initiate a pro-regenerative response has not yet been thoroughly investigated. Calcium plays a critical role in the early stages of axonal injury detection and is also indispensable for regeneration of the severed axon. Here, we report cell and neurite type-specific differences in laser injury-induced elevations of intracellular calcium levels. Using a human KCNJ2 transgene, we demonstrate that hyperpolarizing neurons only at the time of injury dampens dendrite regeneration, suggesting that inhibition of injury-induced membrane depolarization (and thus early calcium influx) plays a role in detecting and responding to dendrite injury. In exploring potential downstream calcium-regulated effectors, we identify L-type voltage-gated calcium channels, inositol triphosphate signaling, and protein kinase D activity as drivers of dendrite regeneration. In conclusion, we demonstrate that dendrite injury-induced calcium elevations play a key role in the regenerative response of dendrites and begin to delineate the molecular mechanisms governing dendrite repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vinicius N Duarte
- Dept of Developmental and Cell Biology, University of California, Irvine, United States
| | - Vicky T Lam
- Dept of Developmental and Cell Biology, University of California, Irvine, United States
| | - Dario S Rimicci
- Dept of Developmental and Cell Biology, University of California, Irvine, United States
| | - Katherine L Thompson-Peer
- Dept of Developmental and Cell Biology, University of California, Irvine, United States; Center for the Neurobiology of Learning and Memory, Irvine, CA, United States; Sue and Bill Gross Stem Cell Research Center, Irvine, CA, United States; Reeve-Irvine Research Center, Irvine, CA, United States.
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3
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Rui M. Recent progress in dendritic pruning of Drosophila C4da sensory neurons. Open Biol 2024; 14:240059. [PMID: 39046196 PMCID: PMC11267989 DOI: 10.1098/rsob.240059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2024] [Revised: 05/27/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 07/25/2024] Open
Abstract
The brain can adapt to changes in the environment through alterations in the number and structure of synapses. During embryonic and early postnatal stages, the synapses in the brain undergo rapid expansion and interconnections to form circuits. However, many of these synaptic connections are redundant or incorrect. Neurite pruning is a conserved process that occurs during both vertebrate and invertebrate development. It requires precise spatiotemporal control of local degradation of cellular components, comprising cytoskeletons and membranes, refines neuronal circuits, and ensures the precise connectivity required for proper function. The Drosophila's class IV dendritic arborization (C4da) sensory neuron has a well-characterized architecture and undergoes dendrite-specific sculpting, making it a valuable model for unravelling the intricate regulatory mechanisms underlie dendritic pruning. In this review, I attempt to provide an overview of the present state of research on dendritic pruning in C4da sensory neurons, as well as potential functional mechanisms in neurodevelopmental disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Menglong Rui
- School of Life Science and Technology, the Key Laboratory of Developmental Genes and Human Disease, Southeast University, Nanjing210096, People‘s Republic of China
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4
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Wang W, Rui M. Advances in understanding the roles of actin scaffolding and membrane trafficking in dendrite development. J Genet Genomics 2024:S1673-8527(24)00152-8. [PMID: 38925347 DOI: 10.1016/j.jgg.2024.06.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2024] [Revised: 06/18/2024] [Accepted: 06/19/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
Dendritic morphology is typically highly branched, and the branching and synaptic abundance of dendrites can enhance the receptive range of neurons and the diversity of information received, thus providing the basis for information processing in the nervous system. Once dendritic development is aberrantly compromised or damaged, it may lead to abnormal connectivity of the neural network, affecting the function and stability of the nervous system and ultimately triggering a series of neurological disorders. Research on the regulation of dendritic developmental processes has flourished, and much progress is now being made in its regulatory mechanisms. Noteworthily, dendrites are characterized by an extremely complex dendritic arborization that cannot be attributed to individual protein functions alone, requiring a systematic analysis of the intrinsic and extrinsic signals and the coordinated roles among them. Actin cytoskeleton organization and membrane vesicle trafficking are required during dendrite development, with actin providing tracks for vesicles and vesicle trafficking in turn providing material for actin assembly. In this review, we focus on these two basic biological processes and discuss the molecular mechanisms and their synergistic effects underlying the morphogenesis of neuronal dendrites. We also offer insights and discuss strategies for the potential preventive and therapeutic treatment of neuropsychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wanting Wang
- School of Life Science and Technology, The Key Laboratory of Developmental Genes and Human Disease, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210031, China
| | - Menglong Rui
- School of Life Science and Technology, The Key Laboratory of Developmental Genes and Human Disease, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210031, China.
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5
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Gao Z, Huang E, Wang W, Xu L, Xu W, Zheng T, Rui M. Patronin regulates presynaptic microtubule organization and neuromuscular junction development in Drosophila. iScience 2024; 27:108944. [PMID: 38318379 PMCID: PMC10839449 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2024.108944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2023] [Revised: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Synapses are fundamental components of the animal nervous system. Synaptic cytoskeleton is essential for maintaining proper neuronal development and wiring. Perturbations in neuronal microtubules (MTs) are correlated with numerous neuropsychiatric disorders. Despite discovering multiple synaptic MT regulators, the importance of MT stability, and particularly the polarity of MT in synaptic function, is still under investigation. Here, we identify Patronin, an MT minus-end-binding protein, for its essential role in presynaptic regulation of MT organization and neuromuscular junction (NMJ) development. Analyses indicate that Patronin regulates synaptic development independent of Klp10A. Subsequent research elucidates that it is short stop (Shot), a member of the Spectraplakin family of large cytoskeletal linker molecules, works synergistically with Patronin to govern NMJ development. We further raise the possibility that normal synaptic MT polarity contributes to proper NMJ morphology. Overall, this study demonstrates an unprecedented role of Patronin, and a potential involvement of MT polarity in synaptic development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziyang Gao
- School of Life Science and Technology, the Key Laboratory of Developmental Genes and Human Disease, Southeast University, Nanjing 210096, China
| | - Erqian Huang
- School of Life Science and Technology, the Key Laboratory of Developmental Genes and Human Disease, Southeast University, Nanjing 210096, China
| | - Wanting Wang
- School of Life Science and Technology, the Key Laboratory of Developmental Genes and Human Disease, Southeast University, Nanjing 210096, China
| | - Lizhong Xu
- School of Life Science and Technology, the Key Laboratory of Developmental Genes and Human Disease, Southeast University, Nanjing 210096, China
| | - Wanyue Xu
- School of Life Science and Technology, the Key Laboratory of Developmental Genes and Human Disease, Southeast University, Nanjing 210096, China
| | - Ting Zheng
- School of Life Science and Technology, the Key Laboratory of Developmental Genes and Human Disease, Southeast University, Nanjing 210096, China
| | - Menglong Rui
- School of Life Science and Technology, the Key Laboratory of Developmental Genes and Human Disease, Southeast University, Nanjing 210096, China
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6
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Rosa E Silva I, Smetana JHC, de Oliveira JF. A comprehensive review on DDX3X liquid phase condensation in health and neurodevelopmental disorders. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 259:129330. [PMID: 38218270 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.129330] [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: 11/22/2023] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/06/2024] [Indexed: 01/15/2024]
Abstract
DEAD-box helicases are global regulators of liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS), a process that assembles membraneless organelles inside cells. An outstanding member of the DEAD-box family is DDX3X, a multi-functional protein that plays critical roles in RNA metabolism, including RNA transcription, splicing, nucleocytoplasmic export, and translation. The diverse functions of DDX3X result from its ability to bind and remodel RNA in an ATP-dependent manner. This capacity enables the protein to act as an RNA chaperone and an RNA helicase, regulating ribonucleoprotein complex assembly. DDX3X and its orthologs from mouse, yeast (Ded1), and C. elegans (LAF-1) can undergo LLPS, driving the formation of neuronal granules, stress granules, processing bodies or P-granules. DDX3X has been related to several human conditions, including neurodevelopmental disorders, such as intellectual disability and autism spectrum disorder. Although the research into the pathogenesis of aberrant biomolecular condensation in neurodegenerative diseases is increasing rapidly, the role of LLPS in neurodevelopmental disorders is underexplored. This review summarizes current findings relevant for DDX3X phase separation in neurodevelopment and examines how disturbances in the LLPS process can be related to neurodevelopmental disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivan Rosa E Silva
- Brazilian Biosciences National Laboratory, Center for Research in Energy and Materials, Campinas, SP, Brazil
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7
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Mitchell JW, Midillioglu I, Schauer E, Wang B, Han C, Wildonger J. Coordination of Pickpocket ion channel delivery and dendrite growth in Drosophila sensory neurons. PLoS Genet 2023; 19:e1011025. [PMID: 37943859 PMCID: PMC10662761 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1011025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Revised: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Sensory neurons enable an organism to perceive external stimuli, which is essential for survival. The sensory capacity of a neuron depends on the elaboration of its dendritic arbor and the localization of sensory ion channels to the dendritic membrane. However, it is not well understood when and how ion channels localize to growing sensory dendrites and whether their delivery is coordinated with growth of the dendritic arbor. We investigated the localization of the DEG/ENaC/ASIC ion channel Pickpocket (Ppk) in the peripheral sensory neurons of developing fruit flies. We used CRISPR-Cas9 genome engineering approaches to tag endogenous Ppk1 and visualize it live, including monitoring Ppk1 membrane localization via a novel secreted split-GFP approach. Fluorescently tagged endogenous Ppk1 localizes to dendrites, as previously reported, and, unexpectedly, to axons and axon terminals. In dendrites, Ppk1 is present throughout actively growing dendrite branches and is stably integrated into the neuronal cell membrane during the expansive growth of the arbor. Although Ppk channels are dispensable for dendrite growth, we found that an over-active channel mutant severely reduces dendrite growth, likely by acting at an internal membrane and not the dendritic membrane. Our data reveal that the molecular motor dynein and recycling endosome GTPase Rab11 are needed for the proper trafficking of Ppk1 to dendrites. Based on our data, we propose that Ppk channel transport is coordinated with dendrite morphogenesis, which ensures proper ion channel density and distribution in sensory dendrites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josephine W. Mitchell
- Integrated Program in Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, United States of America
- Biochemistry Department, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, United States of America
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Kalamazoo College, Kalamazoo, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Ipek Midillioglu
- Pediatrics, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California, United States of America
| | - Ethan Schauer
- Pediatrics, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California, United States of America
| | - Bei Wang
- Weill Institute for Cell and Molecular Biology, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, United States of America
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, United States of America
| | - Chun Han
- Weill Institute for Cell and Molecular Biology, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, United States of America
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, United States of America
| | - Jill Wildonger
- Biochemistry Department, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, United States of America
- Pediatrics, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California, United States of America
- Cell & Developmental Biology, School of Biological Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California, United States of America
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8
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Xing J, Theune WC, Lukomska A, Frost MP, Damania A, Trakhtenberg EF. Experimental upregulation of developmentally downregulated ribosomal protein large subunits 7 and 7A promotes axon regeneration after injury in vivo. Exp Neurol 2023; 368:114510. [PMID: 37633482 PMCID: PMC10529763 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2023.114510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2023] [Revised: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 08/28/2023]
Abstract
Ribosomal proteins are involved in neurodevelopment and central nervous system (CNS) disease and injury. However, the roles of specific ribosomal protein subunits in developmental axon growth, and their potential as therapeutic targets for treating CNS injuries, are still poorly understood. Here, we show that ribosomal protein large (Rpl) and small (Rps) subunit genes are substantially (56-fold) enriched amongst the genes, which are downregulated during maturation of retinal ganglion cell (RGC) CNS projection neurons. We also show that Rpl and Rps subunits are highly co-regulated in RGCs, and partially re-upregulated after optic nerve crush (ONC). Because developmental downregulation of ribosomal proteins coincides with developmental decline in neuronal intrinsic axon growth capacity, we hypothesized that Rpl/Rps incomplete re-upregulation after injury may be a part of the cellular response which attempts to reactivate intrinsic axon growth mechanisms. We found that experimentally upregulating Rpl7 and Rpl7A promoted axon regeneration after ONC in vivo. Finally, we characterized gene networks associated with Rpl/Rps, and showed that Rpl7 and Rpl7A belong to the cluster of genes, which are shared between translational and neurodevelopmental biological processes (based on gene-ontology) that are co-downregulated in maturing RGCs during the decline in intrinsic axon growth capacity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Xing
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, 263 Farmington Ave, Farmington, CT 06030, USA
| | - William C Theune
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, 263 Farmington Ave, Farmington, CT 06030, USA
| | - Agnieszka Lukomska
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, 263 Farmington Ave, Farmington, CT 06030, USA
| | - Matthew P Frost
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, 263 Farmington Ave, Farmington, CT 06030, USA
| | - Ashiti Damania
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, 263 Farmington Ave, Farmington, CT 06030, USA
| | - Ephraim F Trakhtenberg
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, 263 Farmington Ave, Farmington, CT 06030, USA.
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9
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Swope RD, Hertzler JI, Stone MC, Kothe GO, Rolls MM. The exocyst complex is required for developmental and regenerative neurite growth in vivo. Dev Biol 2022; 492:1-13. [PMID: 36162553 PMCID: PMC10228574 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2022.09.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2022] [Revised: 09/13/2022] [Accepted: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The exocyst complex is an important regulator of intracellular trafficking and tethers secretory vesicles to the plasma membrane. Understanding of its role in neuron outgrowth remains incomplete, and previous studies have come to different conclusions about its importance for axon and dendrite growth, particularly in vivo. To investigate exocyst function in vivo we used Drosophila sensory neurons as a model system. To bypass early developmental requirements in other cell types, we used neuron-specific RNAi to target seven exocyst subunits. Initial neuronal development proceeded normally in these backgrounds, however, we considered this could be due to residual exocyst function. To probe neuronal growth capacity at later times after RNAi initiation, we used laser microsurgery to remove axons or dendrites and prompt regrowth. Exocyst subunit RNAi reduced axon regeneration, although new axons could be specified. In control neurons, a vesicle trafficking marker often concentrated in the new axon, but this pattern was disrupted in Sec6 RNAi neurons. Dendrite regeneration was also severely reduced by exocyst RNAi, even though the trafficking marker did not accumulate in a strongly polarized manner during normal dendrite regeneration. The requirement for the exocyst was not limited to injury contexts as exocyst subunit RNAi eliminated dendrite regrowth after developmental pruning. We conclude that the exocyst is required for injury-induced and developmental neurite outgrowth, but that residual protein function can easily mask this requirement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel D Swope
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and the Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, University Park, PA, 16802, USA
| | - J Ian Hertzler
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and the Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, University Park, PA, 16802, USA
| | - Michelle C Stone
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and the Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, University Park, PA, 16802, USA
| | - Gregory O Kothe
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and the Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, University Park, PA, 16802, USA
| | - Melissa M Rolls
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and the Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, University Park, PA, 16802, USA.
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10
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Bhattacharjee S, Lottes EN, Nanda S, Golshir A, Patel AA, Ascoli GA, Cox DN. PP2A phosphatase regulates cell-type specific cytoskeletal organization to drive dendrite diversity. Front Mol Neurosci 2022; 15:926567. [PMID: 36452406 PMCID: PMC9702092 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2022.926567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2022] [Accepted: 10/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Uncovering molecular mechanisms regulating dendritic diversification is essential to understanding the formation and modulation of functional neural circuitry. Transcription factors play critical roles in promoting dendritic diversity and here, we identify PP2A phosphatase function as a downstream effector of Cut-mediated transcriptional regulation of dendrite development. Mutant analyses of the PP2A catalytic subunit (mts) or the scaffolding subunit (PP2A-29B) reveal cell-type specific regulatory effects with the PP2A complex required to promote dendritic growth and branching in Drosophila Class IV (CIV) multidendritic (md) neurons, whereas in Class I (CI) md neurons, PP2A functions in restricting dendritic arborization. Cytoskeletal analyses reveal requirements for Mts in regulating microtubule stability/polarity and F-actin organization/dynamics. In CIV neurons, mts knockdown leads to reductions in dendritic localization of organelles including mitochondria and satellite Golgi outposts, while CI neurons show increased Golgi outpost trafficking along the dendritic arbor. Further, mts mutant neurons exhibit defects in neuronal polarity/compartmentalization. Finally, genetic interaction analyses suggest β-tubulin subunit 85D is a common PP2A target in CI and CIV neurons, while FoxO is a putative target in CI neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Erin N. Lottes
- Neuroscience Institute, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Sumit Nanda
- Center for Neural Informatics, Structures, and Plasticity, Krasnow Institute for Advanced Study, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA, United States
| | - Andre Golshir
- Neuroscience Institute, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Atit A. Patel
- Neuroscience Institute, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Giorgio A. Ascoli
- Center for Neural Informatics, Structures, and Plasticity, Krasnow Institute for Advanced Study, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA, United States
| | - Daniel N. Cox
- Neuroscience Institute, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, United States
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11
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Metastable spiking networks in the replica-mean-field limit. PLoS Comput Biol 2022; 18:e1010215. [PMID: 35714155 PMCID: PMC9246178 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pcbi.1010215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2021] [Revised: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Characterizing metastable neural dynamics in finite-size spiking networks remains a daunting challenge. We propose to address this challenge in the recently introduced replica-mean-field (RMF) limit. In this limit, networks are made of infinitely many replicas of the finite network of interest, but with randomized interactions across replicas. Such randomization renders certain excitatory networks fully tractable at the cost of neglecting activity correlations, but with explicit dependence on the finite size of the neural constituents. However, metastable dynamics typically unfold in networks with mixed inhibition and excitation. Here, we extend the RMF computational framework to point-process-based neural network models with exponential stochastic intensities, allowing for mixed excitation and inhibition. Within this setting, we show that metastable finite-size networks admit multistable RMF limits, which are fully characterized by stationary firing rates. Technically, these stationary rates are determined as the solutions of a set of delayed differential equations under certain regularity conditions that any physical solutions shall satisfy. We solve this original problem by combining the resolvent formalism and singular-perturbation theory. Importantly, we find that these rates specify probabilistic pseudo-equilibria which accurately capture the neural variability observed in the original finite-size network. We also discuss the emergence of metastability as a stochastic bifurcation, which can be interpreted as a static phase transition in the RMF limits. In turn, we expect to leverage the static picture of RMF limits to infer purely dynamical features of metastable finite-size networks, such as the transition rates between pseudo-equilibria.
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12
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Thyagarajan P, Feng C, Lee D, Shorey M, Rolls MM. Microtubule polarity is instructive for many aspects of neuronal polarity. Dev Biol 2022; 486:56-70. [PMID: 35341730 PMCID: PMC9058238 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2022.03.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2021] [Revised: 03/04/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Many neurons in bilaterian animals are polarized with functionally distinct axons and dendrites. Microtubule polarity, microtubule stability, and the axon initial segment (AIS) have all been shown to influence polarized transport in neurons. Each of these cytoskeletal cues could act independently to control axon and dendrite identity, or there could be a hierarchy in which one acts upstream of the others. Here we test the hypothesis that microtubule polarity acts as a master regulator of neuronal polarity by using a Drosophila genetic background in which some dendrites have normal minus-end-out microtubule polarity and others have the axonal plus-end-out polarity. In these mosaic dendrite arbors, we found that ribosomes, which are more abundant in dendrites than axons, were reduced in plus-end-out dendrites, while an axonal cargo was increased. In addition, we determined that microtubule stability was different in plus-end-out and minus-end-out dendrites, with plus-end-out ones having more stable microtubules like axons. Similarly, we found that ectopic diffusion barriers, like those at the AIS, formed at the base of dendrites with plus-end-out regions. Thus, changes in microtubule polarity were sufficient to rearrange other cytoskeletal features associated with neuronal polarization. However, overall neuron shape was maintained with only subtle changes in branching in mosaic arbors. We conclude that microtubule polarity can act upstream of many aspects of intracellular neuronal polarization, but shape is relatively resilient to changes in microtubule polarity in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pankajam Thyagarajan
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and the Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA
| | - Chengye Feng
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and the Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA
| | - David Lee
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and the Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA
| | - Matthew Shorey
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and the Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA
| | - Melissa M Rolls
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and the Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA.
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13
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Bu S, Tang Q, Wang Y, Lau SSY, Yong WL, Yu F. Drosophila CLASP regulates microtubule orientation and dendrite pruning by suppressing Par-1 kinase. Cell Rep 2022; 39:110887. [PMID: 35649352 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2022.110887] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2021] [Revised: 04/04/2022] [Accepted: 05/06/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The evolutionarily conserved CLASPs (cytoplasmic linker-associated proteins) are microtubule-associated proteins that inhibit microtubule catastrophe and promote rescue. CLASPs can regulate axonal elongation and dendrite branching in growing neurons. However, their roles in microtubule orientation and neurite pruning in remodeling neurons remain unknown. Here, we identify the Drosophila CLASP homolog Orbit/MAST, which is required for dendrite pruning in ddaC sensory neurons during metamorphosis. Orbit is important for maintenance of the minus-end-out microtubule orientation in ddaC dendrites. Our structural analysis reveals that the microtubule lattice-binding TOG2 domain is required for Orbit to regulate dendritic microtubule orientation and dendrite pruning. In a genetic modifier screen, we further identify the conserved Par-1 kinase as a suppressor of Orbit in dendritic microtubule orientation. Moreover, elevated Par-1 function impairs dendritic microtubule orientation and dendrite pruning, phenocopying orbit mutants. Overall, our study demonstrates that Drosophila CLASP governs dendritic microtubule orientation and dendrite pruning at least partly via suppressing Par-1 kinase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shufeng Bu
- Temasek Life Sciences Laboratory, 1 Research Link, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore; Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Quan Tang
- Temasek Life Sciences Laboratory, 1 Research Link, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Yan Wang
- Temasek Life Sciences Laboratory, 1 Research Link, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Samuel Song Yuan Lau
- Temasek Life Sciences Laboratory, 1 Research Link, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Wei Lin Yong
- Temasek Life Sciences Laboratory, 1 Research Link, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Fengwei Yu
- Temasek Life Sciences Laboratory, 1 Research Link, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore; Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore.
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14
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Law AD, Cassar M, Long DM, Chow ES, Giebultowicz JM, Venkataramanan A, Strauss R, Kretzschmar D. FTD-associated mutations in Tau result in a combination of dominant and recessive phenotypes. Neurobiol Dis 2022; 170:105770. [PMID: 35588988 PMCID: PMC9261467 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2022.105770] [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: 12/14/2021] [Revised: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Although mutations in the microtubules-associated protein Tau have long been connected with several neurodegenerative diseases, the underlying molecular mechanisms causing these tauopathies are still not fully understood. Studies in various models suggested that dominant gain-of-function effects underlie the pathogenicity of these mutants; however, there is also evidence that the loss of normal physiological functions of Tau plays a role in tauopathies. Previous studies on Tau in Drosophila involved expressing the human Tau protein in the background of the endogenous Tau gene in addition to inducing high expression levels. To study Tau pathology in more physiological conditions, we recently created Drosophila knock-in models that express either wildtype human Tau (hTauWT) or disease-associated mutant hTau (hTauV337M and hTauK369I) in place of the endogenous Drosophila Tau (dTau). Analyzing these flies as homozygotes, we could therefore detect recessive effects of the mutations while identifying dominant effects in heterozygotes. Using memory, locomotion and sleep assays, we found that homozygous mutant hTau flies showed deficits already when quite young whereas in heterozygous flies, disease phenotypes developed with aging. Homozygotes also revealed an increase in microtubule diameter, suggesting that changes in the cytoskeleton underlie the axonal degeneration we observed in these flies. In contrast, heterozygous mutant hTau flies showed abnormal axonal targeting and no detectable changes in microtubules. However, we previously showed that heterozygosity for hTauV337M interfered with synaptic homeostasis in central pacemaker neurons and we now show that heterozygous hTauK369I flies have decreased levels of proteins involved in the release of synaptic vesicles. Taken together, our results demonstrate that both mutations induce a combination of dominant and recessive disease-related phenotypes that provide behavioral and molecular insights into the etiology of Tauopathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander D Law
- Oregon Institute of Occupational Health Sciences, 3181 S.W. Sam Jackson Park Road, Portland, OR 97219, USA
| | - Marlène Cassar
- Oregon Institute of Occupational Health Sciences, 3181 S.W. Sam Jackson Park Road, Portland, OR 97219, USA
| | - Dani M Long
- Oregon Institute of Occupational Health Sciences, 3181 S.W. Sam Jackson Park Road, Portland, OR 97219, USA
| | - Eileen S Chow
- Department of Integrative Biology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA
| | | | - Anjana Venkataramanan
- Institut für Entwicklungsbiologie und Neurobiologie, Johannes Gutenberg-Universität Mainz, Hanns-Dieter-Hüsch Weg 15, 55128 Mainz, Germany
| | - Roland Strauss
- Institut für Entwicklungsbiologie und Neurobiologie, Johannes Gutenberg-Universität Mainz, Hanns-Dieter-Hüsch Weg 15, 55128 Mainz, Germany
| | - Doris Kretzschmar
- Oregon Institute of Occupational Health Sciences, 3181 S.W. Sam Jackson Park Road, Portland, OR 97219, USA.
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15
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Chen N, Zhang Y, Adel M, Kuklin EA, Reed ML, Mardovin JD, Bakthavachalu B, VijayRaghavan K, Ramaswami M, Griffith LC. Local translation provides the asymmetric distribution of CaMKII required for associative memory formation. Curr Biol 2022; 32:2730-2738.e5. [PMID: 35545085 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2022.04.047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Revised: 03/18/2022] [Accepted: 04/14/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
How compartment-specific local proteomes are generated and maintained is inadequately understood, particularly in neurons, which display extreme asymmetries. Here we show that local enrichment of Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII) in axons of Drosophila mushroom body neurons is necessary for cellular plasticity and associative memory formation. Enrichment is achieved via enhanced axoplasmic translation of CaMKII mRNA, through a mechanism requiring the RNA-binding protein Mub and a 23-base Mub-recognition element in the CaMKII 3' UTR. Perturbation of either dramatically reduces axonal, but not somatic, CaMKII protein without altering the distribution or amount of mRNA in vivo, and both are necessary and sufficient to enhance axonal translation of reporter mRNA. Together, these data identify elevated levels of translation of an evenly distributed mRNA as a novel strategy for generating subcellular biochemical asymmetries. They further demonstrate the importance of distributional asymmetry in the computational and biological functions of neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nannan Chen
- Department of Biology, Volen National Center for Complex Systems, Brandeis University, 415 South Street, Waltham, MA 02454-9110, USA
| | - Yunpeng Zhang
- Department of Biology, Volen National Center for Complex Systems, Brandeis University, 415 South Street, Waltham, MA 02454-9110, USA
| | - Mohamed Adel
- Department of Biology, Volen National Center for Complex Systems, Brandeis University, 415 South Street, Waltham, MA 02454-9110, USA
| | - Elena A Kuklin
- Department of Biology, Volen National Center for Complex Systems, Brandeis University, 415 South Street, Waltham, MA 02454-9110, USA
| | - Martha L Reed
- Department of Biology, Volen National Center for Complex Systems, Brandeis University, 415 South Street, Waltham, MA 02454-9110, USA
| | - Jacob D Mardovin
- Department of Biology, Volen National Center for Complex Systems, Brandeis University, 415 South Street, Waltham, MA 02454-9110, USA
| | - Baskar Bakthavachalu
- National Centre for Biological Sciences, Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, Bellary Road, Bangalore 560065, India; School of Basic Science, Indian Institute of Technology Mandi, Mandi, India
| | - K VijayRaghavan
- National Centre for Biological Sciences, Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, Bellary Road, Bangalore 560065, India; School of Basic Science, Indian Institute of Technology Mandi, Mandi, India
| | - Mani Ramaswami
- Trinity College Institute of Neuroscience, School of Genetics and Microbiology and School of Natural Sciences, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin 2, Ireland; National Centre for Biological Sciences, Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, Bellary Road, Bangalore 560065, India; School of Basic Science, Indian Institute of Technology Mandi, Mandi, India
| | - Leslie C Griffith
- Department of Biology, Volen National Center for Complex Systems, Brandeis University, 415 South Street, Waltham, MA 02454-9110, USA.
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16
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Gujar MR, Wang H. A fly's eye view of quiescent neural stem cells. OXFORD OPEN NEUROSCIENCE 2022; 1:kvac001. [PMID: 38596705 PMCID: PMC10913722 DOI: 10.1093/oons/kvac001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2021] [Revised: 01/18/2022] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
The balance between proliferation and quiescence of stem cells is crucial in maintaining tissue homeostasis. Neural stem cells (NSCs) in the brain have the ability to be reactivated from a reversible quiescent state to generate new neurons. However, how NSCs transit between quiescence and reactivation remains largely elusive. Drosophila larval brain NSCs, also known as neuroblasts, have emerged as an excellent in vivo model to study molecular mechanisms underlying NSC quiescence and reactivation. Here, we discuss our current understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying the reactivation of quiescent NSCs in Drosophila. We review the most recent advances on epigenetic regulations and microtubule cytoskeleton in Drosophila quiescent NSCs and their cross-talk with signaling pathways that are required in regulating NSC reactivation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahekta R Gujar
- Neuroscience & Behavioral Disorders Programme, Duke-NUS Medical School, 8 College Road, 169857, Singapore
| | - Hongyan Wang
- Neuroscience & Behavioral Disorders Programme, Duke-NUS Medical School, 8 College Road, 169857, Singapore
- Department of Physiology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 117597, Singapore
- NUS Graduate School for Integrative Sciences and Engineering, National University of Singapore, 28 Medical Drive, 117456, Singapore
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17
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Liao M, Kuo YW, Howard J. Counting fluorescently labeled proteins in tissues in the spinning disk microscope using single-molecule calibrations. Mol Biol Cell 2022; 33:ar48. [PMID: 35323029 PMCID: PMC9265152 DOI: 10.1091/mbc.e21-12-0618] [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: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Quantification of molecular numbers and concentrations in living cells is critical for testing models of complex biological phenomena. Counting molecules in cells requires estimation of the fluorescence intensity of single molecules, which is generally limited to imaging near cell surfaces, in isolated cells, or where motions are diffusive. To circumvent this difficulty, we have devised a calibration technique for spinning–disk confocal microscopy, commonly used for imaging in tissues, that uses single–step bleaching kinetics to estimate the single–fluorophore intensity. To cross–check our calibrations, we compared the brightness of fluorophores in the SDC microscope to those in the total internal reflection and epifluorescence microscopes. We applied this calibration method to quantify the number of end–binding protein 1 (EB1)–eGFP in the comets of growing microtubule ends and to measure the cytoplasmic concentration of EB1–eGFP in sensory neurons in fly larvae. These measurements allowed us to estimate the dissociation constant of EB1–eGFP from the microtubules as well as the GTP–tubulin cap size. Our results show the unexplored potential of single–molecule imaging using spinning–disk confocal microscopy and provide a straightforward method to count the absolute number of fluorophores in tissues that can be applied to a wide range of biological systems and imaging techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maijia Liao
- Department of Molecular Biophysics and Biochemistry, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Yin-Wei Kuo
- Department of Molecular Biophysics and Biochemistry, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Jonathon Howard
- Department of Molecular Biophysics and Biochemistry, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
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18
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Rolls MM. Principles of microtubule polarity in linear cells. Dev Biol 2022; 483:112-117. [PMID: 35016908 PMCID: PMC10071391 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2022.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2021] [Accepted: 01/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
The microtubule cytoskeleton is critical for maintenance of long and long-lived neurons. The overlapping array of microtubules extends from the major site of synthesis in the cell body to the far reaches of axons and dendrites. New materials are transported from the cell body along these neuronal roads by motor proteins, and building blocks and information about the state of affairs in other parts of the cell are returned by motors moving in the opposite direction. As motor proteins walk only in one direction along microtubules, the combination of correct motor and correctly oriented microtubules is essential for moving cargoes in the right direction. In this review, we focus on how microtubule polarity is established and maintained in neurons. At first thought, it seems that figuring out how microtubules are organized in neurons should be simple. After all, microtubules are essentially sticks with a slow-growing minus end and faster-growing plus end, and arranging sticks within the constrained narrow tubes of axons and dendrites should be straightforward. It is therefore quite surprising how many mechanisms contribute to making sure they are arranged in the correct polarity. Some of these mechanisms operate to generate plus-end-out polarity of axons, and others control mixed or minus-end-out dendrites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa M Rolls
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and the Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA
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19
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Dey S, Ghosh-Roy A. In vivo Assessment of Microtubule Dynamics and Orientation in Caenorhabditis elegans Neurons. J Vis Exp 2021:10.3791/62744. [PMID: 34866634 PMCID: PMC7614928 DOI: 10.3791/62744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022] Open
Abstract
In neurons, microtubule orientation has been a key assessor to identify axons that have plus-end out microtubules and dendrites that generally have mixed orientation. Here we describe methods to label, image, and analyze the microtubule dynamics and growth during the development and regeneration of touch neurons in C. elegans. Using genetically encoded fluorescent reporters of microtubule tips, we imaged the axonal microtubules. The local changes in microtubule behavior that initiates axon regeneration following axotomy can be quantified using this protocol. This assay is adaptable to other neurons and genetic backgrounds to investigate the regulation of microtubule dynamics in various cellular processes.
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20
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Das R, Bhattacharjee S, Letcher JM, Harris JM, Nanda S, Foldi I, Lottes EN, Bobo HM, Grantier BD, Mihály J, Ascoli GA, Cox DN. Formin 3 directs dendritic architecture via microtubule regulation and is required for somatosensory nociceptive behavior. Development 2021; 148:dev187609. [PMID: 34322714 PMCID: PMC8380456 DOI: 10.1242/dev.187609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2019] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Dendrite shape impacts functional connectivity and is mediated by organization and dynamics of cytoskeletal fibers. Identifying the molecular factors that regulate dendritic cytoskeletal architecture is therefore important in understanding the mechanistic links between cytoskeletal organization and neuronal function. We identified Formin 3 (Form3) as an essential regulator of cytoskeletal architecture in nociceptive sensory neurons in Drosophila larvae. Time course analyses reveal that Form3 is cell-autonomously required to promote dendritic arbor complexity. We show that form3 is required for the maintenance of a population of stable dendritic microtubules (MTs), and mutants exhibit defects in the localization of dendritic mitochondria, satellite Golgi, and the TRPA channel Painless. Form3 directly interacts with MTs via FH1-FH2 domains. Mutations in human inverted formin 2 (INF2; ortholog of form3) have been causally linked to Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) disease. CMT sensory neuropathies lead to impaired peripheral sensitivity. Defects in form3 function in nociceptive neurons result in severe impairment of noxious heat-evoked behaviors. Expression of the INF2 FH1-FH2 domains partially recovers form3 defects in MTs and nocifensive behavior, suggesting conserved functions, thereby providing putative mechanistic insights into potential etiologies of CMT sensory neuropathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ravi Das
- Neuroscience Institute, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA 30303, USA
| | | | - Jamin M. Letcher
- Neuroscience Institute, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA 30303, USA
| | - Jenna M. Harris
- Neuroscience Institute, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA 30303, USA
| | - Sumit Nanda
- Krasnow Institute for Advanced Study, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA 22030, USA
| | - Istvan Foldi
- Biological Research Centre, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Institute of Genetics, MTA-SZBK NAP B Axon Growth and Regeneration Group, Temesvári krt. 62, Szeged H-6726, Hungary
| | - Erin N. Lottes
- Neuroscience Institute, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA 30303, USA
| | - Hansley M. Bobo
- Neuroscience Institute, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA 30303, USA
| | | | - József Mihály
- Biological Research Centre, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Institute of Genetics, MTA-SZBK NAP B Axon Growth and Regeneration Group, Temesvári krt. 62, Szeged H-6726, Hungary
| | - Giorgio A. Ascoli
- Krasnow Institute for Advanced Study, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA 22030, USA
| | - Daniel N. Cox
- Neuroscience Institute, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA 30303, USA
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21
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Shorey M, Rao K, Stone MC, Mattie FJ, Sagasti A, Rolls MM. Microtubule organization of vertebrate sensory neurons in vivo. Dev Biol 2021; 478:1-12. [PMID: 34147472 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2021.06.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2021] [Revised: 06/11/2021] [Accepted: 06/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons are the predominant cell type that innervates the vertebrate skin. They are typically described as pseudounipolar cells that have central and peripheral axons branching from a single root exiting the cell body. The peripheral axon travels within a nerve to the skin, where free sensory endings can emerge and branch into an arbor that receives and integrates information. In some immature vertebrates, DRG neurons are preceded by Rohon-Beard (RB) neurons. While the sensory endings of RB and DRG neurons function like dendrites, we use live imaging in zebrafish to show that they have axonal plus-end-out microtubule polarity at all stages of maturity. Moreover, we show both cell types have central and peripheral axons with plus-end-out polarity. Surprisingly, in DRG neurons these emerge separately from the cell body, and most cells never acquire the signature pseudounipolar morphology. Like another recently characterized cell type that has multiple plus-end-out neurites, ganglion cells in Nematostella, RB and DRG neurons maintain a somatic microtubule organizing center even when mature. In summary, we characterize key cellular and subcellular features of vertebrate sensory neurons as a foundation for understanding their function and maintenance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Shorey
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and the Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA
| | - Kavitha Rao
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and the Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA
| | - Michelle C Stone
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and the Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA
| | - Floyd J Mattie
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and the Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA
| | - Alvaro Sagasti
- Molecular, Cell and Developmental Biology Department and Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Melissa M Rolls
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and the Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA.
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22
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Feng C, Cleary JM, Kothe GO, Stone MC, Weiner AT, Hertzler JI, Hancock WO, Rolls MM. Trim9 and Klp61F promote polymerization of new dendritic microtubules along parallel microtubules. J Cell Sci 2021; 134:jcs258437. [PMID: 34096607 PMCID: PMC8214762 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.258437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2021] [Accepted: 05/04/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Axons and dendrites are distinguished by microtubule polarity. In Drosophila, dendrites are dominated by minus-end-out microtubules, whereas axons contain plus-end-out microtubules. Local nucleation in dendrites generates microtubules in both orientations. To understand why dendritic nucleation does not disrupt polarity, we used live imaging to analyze the fate of microtubules generated at branch points. We found that they had different rates of success exiting the branch based on orientation: correctly oriented minus-end-out microtubules succeeded in leaving about twice as often as incorrectly oriented microtubules. Increased success relied on other microtubules in a parallel orientation. From a candidate screen, we identified Trim9 and kinesin-5 (Klp61F) as machinery that promoted growth of new microtubules. In S2 cells, Eb1 recruited Trim9 to microtubules. Klp61F promoted microtubule growth in vitro and in vivo, and could recruit Trim9 in S2 cells. In summary, the data argue that Trim9 and kinesin-5 act together at microtubule plus ends to help polymerizing microtubules parallel to pre-existing ones resist catastrophe.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chengye Feng
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Department and the Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
| | - Joseph M. Cleary
- Biomedical Engineering, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
| | - Gregory O. Kothe
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Department and the Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
| | - Michelle C. Stone
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Department and the Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
| | - Alexis T. Weiner
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Department and the Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
| | - James I. Hertzler
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Department and the Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
| | - William O. Hancock
- Biomedical Engineering, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
| | - Melissa M. Rolls
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Department and the Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
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23
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To nucleate or not, that is the question in neurons. Neurosci Lett 2021; 751:135806. [PMID: 33705928 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2021.135806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2020] [Revised: 02/23/2021] [Accepted: 02/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Microtubules are the structural center of neurons, stretching in overlapping arrays from the cell body to the far reaches of axons and dendrites. They also act as the tracks for long-range transport mediated by dynein and kinesin motors. Transcription and most translation take place in the cell body, and newly made cargoes must be shipped from this site of synthesis to sites of function in axons and dendrites. This constant demand for transport means that the microtubule array must be present without gaps throughout the cell over the lifetime of the animal. This task is made slightly easier in many animals by the relatively long, stable microtubules present in neurons. However, even stable neuronal microtubules have ends that are dynamic, and individual microtubules typically last on the order of hours, while the neurons around them last a lifetime. "Birth" of new microtubules is therefore required to maintain the neuronal microtubule array. In this review we discuss the nucleation of new microtubules in axons and dendrites, including how and where they are nucleated. In addition, it is becoming clear that neuronal microtubule nucleation is highly regulated, with unexpected machinery impinging on the decision of whether nucleation sites are active or inactive through space and time.
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24
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Furusawa K, Emoto K. Spatiotemporal regulation of developmental neurite pruning: Molecular and cellular insights from Drosophila models. Neurosci Res 2020; 167:54-63. [PMID: 33309868 DOI: 10.1016/j.neures.2020.11.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2020] [Revised: 11/10/2020] [Accepted: 11/10/2020] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Developmental neurite pruning is a process by which neurons selectively eliminate unnecessary processes of axons and/or dendrites without cell death, which shapes the mature wiring of nervous systems. In this sense, developmental neurite pruning requires spatiotemporally precise control of local degradation of cellular components including cytoskeletons and membranes. The Drosophila nervous system undergoes large-scale remodeling, including axon/dendrite pruning, during metamorphosis. In addition to this unique phenomenon in the nervous system, powerful genetic tools make the Drosophila nervous system a sophisticated model to investigate spatiotemporal regulation of neural remodeling. This article reviews recent advances to our understanding of the molecular and cellular mechanisms of developmental axon/dendrite pruning, mainly focusing on studies in Drosophila sensory neurons and mushroom body neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kotaro Furusawa
- Department of Biological Sciences, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan.
| | - Kazuo Emoto
- Department of Biological Sciences, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan; International Research Center for Neurointelligence (WPI-IRCN), The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan.
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25
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Wilkes OR, Moore AW. Distinct Microtubule Organizing Center Mechanisms Combine to Generate Neuron Polarity and Arbor Complexity. Front Cell Neurosci 2020; 14:594199. [PMID: 33328893 PMCID: PMC7711044 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2020.594199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2020] [Accepted: 11/02/2020] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Dendrite and axon arbor wiring patterns determine the connectivity and computational characteristics of a neuron. The identities of these dendrite and axon arbors are created by differential polarization of their microtubule arrays, and their complexity and pattern are generated by the extension and organization of these arrays. We describe how several molecularly distinct microtubule organizing center (MTOC) mechanisms function during neuron differentiation to generate and arrange dendrite and axon microtubules. The temporal and spatial organization of these MTOCs generates, patterns, and diversifies arbor wiring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oliver R Wilkes
- Laboratory for Neurodiversity, RIKEN Center for Brain Science, Wako-shi, Japan.,Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Institute for Translational Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Adrian W Moore
- Laboratory for Neurodiversity, RIKEN Center for Brain Science, Wako-shi, Japan
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26
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Stone MC, Kothe GO, Rolls MM, Jegla T. Cytoskeletal and synaptic polarity of LWamide-like+ ganglion neurons in the sea anemone Nematostella vectensis. J Exp Biol 2020; 223:jeb233197. [PMID: 32968001 PMCID: PMC7673360 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.233197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2020] [Accepted: 09/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
The centralized nervous systems of bilaterian animals rely on directional signaling facilitated by polarized neurons with specialized axons and dendrites. It is not known whether axo-dendritic polarity is exclusive to bilaterians or was already present in early metazoans. We therefore examined neurite polarity in the starlet sea anemone Nematostella vectensis (Cnidaria). Cnidarians form a sister clade to bilaterians and share many neuronal building blocks characteristic of bilaterians, including channels, receptors and synaptic proteins, but their nervous systems comprise a comparatively simple net distributed throughout the body. We developed a tool kit of fluorescent polarity markers for live imaging analysis of polarity in an identified neuron type, large ganglion cells of the body column nerve net that express the LWamide-like neuropeptide. Microtubule polarity differs in bilaterian axons and dendrites, and this in part underlies polarized distribution of cargo to the two types of processes. However, in LWamide-like+ neurons, all neurites had axon-like microtubule polarity suggesting that they may have similar contents. Indeed, presynaptic and postsynaptic markers trafficked to all neurites and accumulated at varicosities where neurites from different neurons often crossed, suggesting the presence of bidirectional synaptic contacts. Furthermore, we could not identify a diffusion barrier in the plasma membrane of any of the neurites like the axon initial segment barrier that separates the axonal and somatodendritic compartments in bilaterian neurons. We conclude that at least one type of neuron in Nematostella vectensis lacks the axo-dendritic polarity characteristic of bilaterian neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle C Stone
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and the Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
| | - Gregory O Kothe
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and the Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
| | - Melissa M Rolls
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and the Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
| | - Timothy Jegla
- Department of Biology and the Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
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27
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Valenzuela A, Meservey L, Nguyen H, Fu MM. Golgi Outposts Nucleate Microtubules in Cells with Specialized Shapes. Trends Cell Biol 2020; 30:792-804. [PMID: 32863092 DOI: 10.1016/j.tcb.2020.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2020] [Revised: 07/11/2020] [Accepted: 07/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Classically, animal cells nucleate or form new microtubules off the perinuclear centrosome. In recent years, the Golgi outpost has emerged as a satellite organelle that can function as an acentrosomal microtubule-organizing center (MTOC), nucleating new microtubules at distances far from the nucleus or cell body. Golgi outposts can nucleate new microtubules in specialized cells with unique cytoarchitectures, including Drosophila neurons, mouse muscle cells, and rodent oligodendrocytes. This review compares and contrasts topics of functional relevance, including Golgi outpost heterogeneity, formation and transport, as well as regulation of microtubule polarity and branching. Golgi outposts have also been implicated in the pathology of diseases including muscular dystrophy, and neurodegenerative diseases, such as Parkinson's disease (PD). Since Golgi outposts are relatively understudied, many outstanding questions regarding their function and roles in disease remain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alex Valenzuela
- Department of Neurobiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Lindsey Meservey
- Department of Neurobiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Huy Nguyen
- Department of Neurology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Meng-Meng Fu
- Department of Neurobiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA; National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, Bethesda, MD, USA.
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28
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Hertzler JI, Simonovitch SI, Albertson RM, Weiner AT, Nye DMR, Rolls MM. Kinetochore proteins suppress neuronal microtubule dynamics and promote dendrite regeneration. Mol Biol Cell 2020; 31:2125-2138. [PMID: 32673176 PMCID: PMC7530905 DOI: 10.1091/mbc.e20-04-0237-t] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Kinetochores connect centromeric chromatin to spindle microtubules during mitosis. Neurons are postmitotic, so it was surprising to identify transcripts of structural kinetochore (KT) proteins and regulatory chromosome passenger complex (CPC) and spindle assembly checkpoint (SAC) proteins in Drosophila neurons after dendrite injury. To test whether these proteins function during dendrite regeneration, postmitotic RNA interference (RNAi) was performed and dendrites or axons were removed using laser microsurgery. Reduction of KT, CPC, and SAC proteins decreased dendrite regeneration without affecting axon regeneration. To understand whether neuronal functions of these proteins rely on microtubules, we analyzed microtubule behavior in uninjured neurons. The number of growing plus, but not minus, ends increased in dendrites with reduced KT, CPC, and SAC proteins, while axonal microtubules were unaffected. Increased dendritic microtubule dynamics was independent of dual leucine zipper kinase (DLK)-mediated stress but was rescued by concurrent reduction of γ-tubulin, the core microtubule nucleation protein. Reduction of γ-tubulin also rescued dendrite regeneration in backgrounds containing kinetochore RNAi transgenes. We conclude that kinetochore proteins function postmitotically in neurons to suppress dendritic microtubule dynamics by inhibiting nucleation.
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Affiliation(s)
- James I Hertzler
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and the Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802
| | - Samantha I Simonovitch
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and the Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802
| | - Richard M Albertson
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and the Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802.,MSTP Program, Milton S. Hershey College of Medicine, Hershey, PA 17033
| | - Alexis T Weiner
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and the Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802
| | - Derek M R Nye
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and the Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802.,MSTP Program, Milton S. Hershey College of Medicine, Hershey, PA 17033
| | - Melissa M Rolls
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and the Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802
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29
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Kinetochore protein Spindly controls microtubule polarity in Drosophila axons. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2020; 117:12155-12163. [PMID: 32430325 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2005394117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Microtubule polarity in axons and dendrites defines the direction of intracellular transport in neurons. Axons contain arrays of uniformly polarized microtubules with plus-ends facing the tips of the processes (plus-end-out), while dendrites contain microtubules with a minus-end-out orientation. It has been shown that cytoplasmic dynein, targeted to cortical actin, removes minus-end-out microtubules from axons. Here we have identified Spindly, a protein known for recruitment of dynein to kinetochores in mitosis, as a key factor required for dynein-dependent microtubule sorting in axons of Drosophila neurons. Depletion of Spindly affects polarity of axonal microtubules in vivo and in primary neuronal cultures. In addition to these defects, depletion of Spindly in neurons causes major collapse of axonal patterning in the third-instar larval brain as well as severe coordination impairment in adult flies. These defects can be fully rescued by full-length Spindly, but not by variants with mutations in its dynein-binding site. Biochemical analysis demonstrated that Spindly binds F-actin, suggesting that Spindly serves as a link between dynein and cortical actin in axons. Therefore, Spindly plays a critical role during neurodevelopment by mediating dynein-driven sorting of axonal microtubules.
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30
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Tang Q, Rui M, Bu S, Wang Y, Chew LY, Yu F. A microtubule polymerase is required for microtubule orientation and dendrite pruning in Drosophila. EMBO J 2020; 39:e103549. [PMID: 32267553 DOI: 10.15252/embj.2019103549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2019] [Revised: 02/27/2020] [Accepted: 02/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Drosophila class IV ddaC neurons selectively prune all larval dendrites to refine the nervous system during metamorphosis. During dendrite pruning, severing of proximal dendrites is preceded by local microtubule (MT) disassembly. Here, we identify an unexpected role of Mini spindles (Msps), a conserved MT polymerase, in governing dendrite pruning. Msps associates with another MT-associated protein TACC, and both stabilize each other in ddaC neurons. Moreover, Msps and TACC are required to orient minus-end-out MTs in dendrites. We further show that the functions of msps in dendritic MT orientation and dendrite pruning are antagonized by the kinesin-13 MT depolymerase Klp10A. Excessive MT depolymerization, which is induced by pharmacological treatment and katanin overexpression, also perturbs dendritic MT orientation and dendrite pruning, phenocopying msps mutants. Thus, we demonstrate that the MT polymerase Msps is required to form dendritic minus-end-out MTs and thereby promotes dendrite pruning in Drosophila sensory neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Quan Tang
- Temasek Life Sciences Laboratory, Singapore City, Singapore.,Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore City, Singapore
| | - Menglong Rui
- Temasek Life Sciences Laboratory, Singapore City, Singapore
| | - Shufeng Bu
- Temasek Life Sciences Laboratory, Singapore City, Singapore.,Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore City, Singapore
| | - Yan Wang
- Temasek Life Sciences Laboratory, Singapore City, Singapore
| | - Liang Yuh Chew
- Temasek Life Sciences Laboratory, Singapore City, Singapore.,Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore City, Singapore
| | - Fengwei Yu
- Temasek Life Sciences Laboratory, Singapore City, Singapore.,Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore City, Singapore.,NUS Graduate School for Integrative Sciences and Engineering, Centre for Life Sciences, Singapore City, Singapore.,Neuroscience and Behavioral Disorder Program, Duke-NUS Graduate Medical School Singapore, Singapore City, Singapore
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31
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Rui M, Ng KS, Tang Q, Bu S, Yu F. Protein phosphatase PP2A regulates microtubule orientation and dendrite pruning in Drosophila. EMBO Rep 2020; 21:e48843. [PMID: 32187821 DOI: 10.15252/embr.201948843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2019] [Revised: 02/20/2020] [Accepted: 03/04/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Pruning that selectively eliminates inappropriate projections is crucial for sculpting neural circuits during development. During Drosophila metamorphosis, ddaC sensory neurons undergo dendrite-specific pruning in response to the steroid hormone ecdysone. However, the understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying dendrite pruning remains incomplete. Here, we show that protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A) is required for dendrite pruning. The catalytic (Microtubule star/Mts), scaffolding (PP2A-29B), and two regulatory subunits (Widerborst/Wdb and Twins/Tws) play important roles in dendrite pruning. Functional analyses indicate that PP2A, via Wdb, facilitates the expression of Sox14 and Mical prior to dendrite pruning. Furthermore, PP2A, via Tws, governs the minus-end-out orientation of microtubules (MTs) in the dendrites. Moreover, the levels of Klp10A, a MT depolymerase, increase when PP2A is compromised. Attenuation of Klp10A fully rescues the MT orientation defects in mts or pp2a-29b RNAi ddaC neurons, suggesting that PP2A governs dendritic MT orientation by suppressing Klp10A levels and/or function. Taken together, this study sheds light on a novel function of PP2A in regulating dendrite pruning and dendritic MT polarity in sensory neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Menglong Rui
- Temasek Life Sciences Laboratory, National University of Singapore, Singapore City, Singapore
| | - Kay Siong Ng
- Temasek Life Sciences Laboratory, National University of Singapore, Singapore City, Singapore
| | - Quan Tang
- Temasek Life Sciences Laboratory, National University of Singapore, Singapore City, Singapore.,Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore City, Singapore
| | - Shufeng Bu
- Temasek Life Sciences Laboratory, National University of Singapore, Singapore City, Singapore.,Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore City, Singapore
| | - Fengwei Yu
- Temasek Life Sciences Laboratory, National University of Singapore, Singapore City, Singapore.,Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore City, Singapore.,NUS Graduate School for Integrative Sciences and Engineering, Centre for Life Sciences, Singapore City, Singapore.,Neuroscience and Behavioral Disorder Program, Duke-NUS Medical School Singapore, Singapore City, Singapore
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32
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Weiner AT, Seebold DY, Torres-Gutierrez P, Folker C, Swope RD, Kothe GO, Stoltz JG, Zalenski MK, Kozlowski C, Barbera DJ, Patel MA, Thyagarajan P, Shorey M, Nye DMR, Keegan M, Behari K, Song S, Axelrod JD, Rolls MM. Endosomal Wnt signaling proteins control microtubule nucleation in dendrites. PLoS Biol 2020; 18:e3000647. [PMID: 32163403 PMCID: PMC7067398 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pbio.3000647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2019] [Accepted: 02/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Dendrite microtubules are polarized with minus-end-out orientation in Drosophila neurons. Nucleation sites concentrate at dendrite branch points, but how they localize is not known. Using Drosophila, we found that canonical Wnt signaling proteins regulate localization of the core nucleation protein γTubulin (γTub). Reduction of frizzleds (fz), arrow (low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein [LRP] 5/6), dishevelled (dsh), casein kinase Iγ, G proteins, and Axin reduced γTub-green fluorescent protein (GFP) at branch points, and two functional readouts of dendritic nucleation confirmed a role for Wnt signaling proteins. Both dsh and Axin localized to branch points, with dsh upstream of Axin. Moreover, tethering Axin to mitochondria was sufficient to recruit ectopic γTub-GFP and increase microtubule dynamics in dendrites. At dendrite branch points, Axin and dsh colocalized with early endosomal marker Rab5, and new microtubule growth initiated at puncta marked with fz, dsh, Axin, and Rab5. We propose that in dendrites, canonical Wnt signaling proteins are housed on early endosomes and recruit nucleation sites to branch points.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexis T. Weiner
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Dylan Y. Seebold
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Pedro Torres-Gutierrez
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Christin Folker
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Rachel D. Swope
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Gregory O. Kothe
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Jessica G. Stoltz
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Madeleine K. Zalenski
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Christopher Kozlowski
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Dylan J. Barbera
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Mit A. Patel
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Pankajam Thyagarajan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Matthew Shorey
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Derek M. R. Nye
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Matthew Keegan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Kana Behari
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Song Song
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, United States of America
| | - Jeffrey D. Axelrod
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, United States of America
| | - Melissa M. Rolls
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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33
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Boto T, Stahl A, Tomchik SM. Cellular and circuit mechanisms of olfactory associative learning in Drosophila. J Neurogenet 2020; 34:36-46. [PMID: 32043414 DOI: 10.1080/01677063.2020.1715971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Recent years have witnessed significant progress in understanding how memories are encoded, from the molecular to the cellular and the circuit/systems levels. With a good compromise between brain complexity and behavioral sophistication, the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster is one of the preeminent animal models of learning and memory. Here we review how memories are encoded in Drosophila, with a focus on short-term memory and an eye toward future directions. Forward genetic screens have revealed a large number of genes and transcripts necessary for learning and memory, some acting cell-autonomously. Further, the relative numerical simplicity of the fly brain has enabled the reverse engineering of learning circuits with remarkable precision, in some cases ascribing behavioral phenotypes to single neurons. Functional imaging and physiological studies have localized and parsed the plasticity that occurs during learning at some of the major loci. Connectomics projects are significantly expanding anatomical knowledge of the nervous system, filling out the roadmap for ongoing functional/physiological and behavioral studies, which are being accelerated by simultaneous tool development. These developments have provided unprecedented insight into the fundamental neural principles of learning, and lay the groundwork for deep understanding in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamara Boto
- Department of Neuroscience, The Scripps Research Institute, Jupiter, FL, USA
| | - Aaron Stahl
- Department of Neuroscience, The Scripps Research Institute, Jupiter, FL, USA
| | - Seth M Tomchik
- Department of Neuroscience, The Scripps Research Institute, Jupiter, FL, USA
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34
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Goaillard JM, Moubarak E, Tapia M, Tell F. Diversity of Axonal and Dendritic Contributions to Neuronal Output. Front Cell Neurosci 2020; 13:570. [PMID: 32038171 PMCID: PMC6987044 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2019.00570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2019] [Accepted: 12/09/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Our general understanding of neuronal function is that dendrites receive information that is transmitted to the axon, where action potentials (APs) are initiated and propagated to eventually trigger neurotransmitter release at synaptic terminals. Even though this canonical division of labor is true for a number of neuronal types in the mammalian brain (including neocortical and hippocampal pyramidal neurons or cerebellar Purkinje neurons), many neuronal types do not comply with this classical polarity scheme. In fact, dendrites can be the site of AP initiation and propagation, and even neurotransmitter release. In several interneuron types, all functions are carried out by dendrites as these neurons are devoid of a canonical axon. In this article, we present a few examples of "misbehaving" neurons (with a non-canonical polarity scheme) to highlight the diversity of solutions that are used by mammalian neurons to transmit information. Moreover, we discuss how the contribution of dendrites and axons to neuronal excitability may impose constraints on the morphology of these compartments in specific functional contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean-Marc Goaillard
- UMR_S 1072, Aix Marseille Université, INSERM, Faculté de Médecine Secteur Nord, Marseille, France
| | - Estelle Moubarak
- UMR_S 1072, Aix Marseille Université, INSERM, Faculté de Médecine Secteur Nord, Marseille, France
| | - Mónica Tapia
- UMR_S 1072, Aix Marseille Université, INSERM, Faculté de Médecine Secteur Nord, Marseille, France
| | - Fabien Tell
- UMR_S 1072, Aix Marseille Université, INSERM, Faculté de Médecine Secteur Nord, Marseille, France
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35
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Arnés M, Romero N, Casas-Tintó S, Acebes Á, Ferrús A. PI3K activation prevents Aβ42-induced synapse loss and favors insoluble amyloid deposit formation. Mol Biol Cell 2019; 31:244-260. [PMID: 31877058 PMCID: PMC7183762 DOI: 10.1091/mbc.e19-05-0303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Excess of Aβ42 peptide is considered a hallmark of the disease. Here we express the human Aβ42 peptide to assay the neuroprotective effects of PI3K in adult Drosophila melanogaster. The neuronal expression of the human peptide elicits progressive toxicity in the adult fly. The pathological traits include reduced axonal transport, synapse loss, defective climbing ability and olfactory perception, as well as lifespan reduction. The Aβ42-dependent synapse decay does not involve transcriptional changes in the core synaptic protein encoding genes bruchpilot, liprin and synaptobrevin. All toxicity features, however, are suppressed by the coexpression of PI3K. Moreover, PI3K activation induces a significant increase of 6E10 and thioflavin-positive amyloid deposits. Mechanistically, we suggest that Aβ42-Ser26 could be a candidate residue for direct or indirect phosphorylation by PI3K. Along with these in vivo experiments, we further analyze Aβ42 toxicity and its suppression by PI3K activation in in vitro assays with SH-SY5Y human neuroblastoma cell cultures, where Aβ42 aggregation into large insoluble deposits is reproduced. Finally, we show that the Aβ42 toxicity syndrome includes the transcriptional shut down of PI3K expression. Taken together, these results uncover a potential novel pharmacological strategy against this disease through the restoration of PI3K activity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ninovska Romero
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Institute of Biomedical Technologies, University of La Laguna, Tenerife 38200, Spain
| | | | - Ángel Acebes
- Cajal Institute (CSIC), Madrid 28002, Spain.,Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Institute of Biomedical Technologies, University of La Laguna, Tenerife 38200, Spain
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36
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Feng C, Thyagarajan P, Shorey M, Seebold DY, Weiner AT, Albertson RM, Rao KS, Sagasti A, Goetschius DJ, Rolls MM. Patronin-mediated minus end growth is required for dendritic microtubule polarity. J Cell Biol 2019; 218:2309-2328. [PMID: 31076454 PMCID: PMC6605808 DOI: 10.1083/jcb.201810155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2018] [Revised: 03/13/2019] [Accepted: 04/23/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Feng et al. describe persistent neuronal microtubule minus end growth that depends on the CAMSAP protein Patronin and is needed for dendritic minus-end-out polarity. Microtubule minus ends are thought to be stable in cells. Surprisingly, in Drosophila and zebrafish neurons, we observed persistent minus end growth, with runs lasting over 10 min. In Drosophila, extended minus end growth depended on Patronin, and Patronin reduction disrupted dendritic minus-end-out polarity. In fly dendrites, microtubule nucleation sites localize at dendrite branch points. Therefore, we hypothesized minus end growth might be particularly important beyond branch points. Distal dendrites have mixed polarity, and reduction of Patronin lowered the number of minus-end-out microtubules. More strikingly, extra Patronin made terminal dendrites almost completely minus-end-out, indicating low Patronin normally limits minus-end-out microtubules. To determine whether minus end growth populated new dendrites with microtubules, we analyzed dendrite development and regeneration. Minus ends extended into growing dendrites in the presence of Patronin. In sum, our data suggest that Patronin facilitates sustained microtubule minus end growth, which is critical for populating dendrites with minus-end-out microtubules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chengye Feng
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and the Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA
| | - Pankajam Thyagarajan
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and the Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA
| | - Matthew Shorey
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and the Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA
| | - Dylan Y Seebold
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and the Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA
| | - Alexis T Weiner
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and the Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA
| | - Richard M Albertson
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and the Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA
| | - Kavitha S Rao
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and the Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA
| | - Alvaro Sagasti
- Molecular, Cell, and Developmental Biology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Daniel J Goetschius
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and the Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA
| | - Melissa M Rolls
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and the Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA
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37
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Wang Y, Rui M, Tang Q, Bu S, Yu F. Patronin governs minus-end-out orientation of dendritic microtubules to promote dendrite pruning in Drosophila. eLife 2019; 8:39964. [PMID: 30920370 PMCID: PMC6438692 DOI: 10.7554/elife.39964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2018] [Accepted: 03/08/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Class IV ddaC neurons specifically prune larval dendrites without affecting axons during Drosophila metamorphosis. ddaCs distribute the minus ends of microtubules (MTs) to dendrites but the plus ends to axons. However, a requirement of MT minus-end-binding proteins in dendrite-specific pruning remains completely unknown. Here, we identified Patronin, a minus-end-binding protein, for its crucial and dose-sensitive role in ddaC dendrite pruning. The CKK domain is important for Patronin’s function in dendrite pruning. Moreover, we show that both patronin knockdown and overexpression resulted in a drastic decrease of MT minus ends and a concomitant increase of plus-end-out MTs in ddaC dendrites, suggesting that Patronin stabilizes dendritic minus-end-out MTs. Consistently, attenuation of Klp10A MT depolymerase in patronin mutant neurons significantly restored minus-end-out MTs in dendrites and thereby rescued dendrite-pruning defects. Thus, our study demonstrates that Patronin orients minus-end-out MT arrays in dendrites to promote dendrite-specific pruning mainly through antagonizing Klp10A activity. Editorial note: This article has been through an editorial process in which the authors decide how to respond to the issues raised during peer review. The Reviewing Editor's assessment is that minor issues remain unresolved (see decision letter).
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Wang
- Temasek Life Sciences Laboratory, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore.,NUS Graduate School for Integrative Sciences and Engineering, Centre for Life Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Menglong Rui
- Temasek Life Sciences Laboratory, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Quan Tang
- Temasek Life Sciences Laboratory, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore.,Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Shufeng Bu
- Temasek Life Sciences Laboratory, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore.,Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Fengwei Yu
- Temasek Life Sciences Laboratory, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore.,NUS Graduate School for Integrative Sciences and Engineering, Centre for Life Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore.,Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore.,Neuroscience and Behavioral Disorder Program, Duke-NUS Graduate Medical School, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
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38
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Cusumano P, Damulewicz M, Carbognin E, Caccin L, Puricella A, Specchia V, Bozzetti MP, Costa R, Mazzotta GM. The RNA Helicase BELLE Is Involved in Circadian Rhythmicity and in Transposons Regulation in Drosophila melanogaster. Front Physiol 2019; 10:133. [PMID: 30842743 PMCID: PMC6392097 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2019.00133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2017] [Accepted: 02/04/2019] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Circadian clocks control and synchronize biological rhythms of several behavioral and physiological phenomena in most, if not all, organisms. Rhythm generation relies on molecular auto-regulatory oscillations of interlocked transcriptional-translational feedback loops. Rhythmic clock-gene expression is at the base of rhythmic protein accumulation, though post-transcriptional and post-translational mechanisms have evolved to adjust and consolidate the proper pace of the clock. In Drosophila, BELLE, a conserved DEAD-box RNA helicase playing important roles in reproductive capacity, is involved in the small RNA-mediated regulation associated to the piRNA pathway. Here, we report that BELLE is implicated in the circadian rhythmicity and in the regulation of endogenous transposable elements (TEs) in both nervous system and gonads. We suggest that BELLE acts as important element in the piRNA-mediated regulation of the TEs and raise the hypothesis that this specific regulation could represent another level of post-transcriptional control adopted by the clock to ensure the proper rhythmicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola Cusumano
- Department of Biology, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Milena Damulewicz
- Department of Cell Biology and Imaging, Jagiellonian University, Kraków, Poland
| | | | - Laura Caccin
- Department of Biology, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Antonietta Puricella
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences and Technologies, University of Salento, Lecce, Italy
| | - Valeria Specchia
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences and Technologies, University of Salento, Lecce, Italy
| | - Maria Pia Bozzetti
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences and Technologies, University of Salento, Lecce, Italy
| | - Rodolfo Costa
- Department of Biology, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
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39
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Sphingolipid-dependent Dscam sorting regulates axon segregation. Nat Commun 2019; 10:813. [PMID: 30778062 PMCID: PMC6379420 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-019-08765-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2016] [Accepted: 01/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurons are highly polarized cells with distinct protein compositions in axonal and dendritic compartments. Cellular mechanisms controlling polarized protein sorting have been described for mature nervous system but little is known about the segregation in newly differentiated neurons. In a forward genetic screen for regulators of Drosophila brain circuit development, we identified mutations in SPT, an evolutionary conserved enzyme in sphingolipid biosynthesis. Here we show that reduced levels of sphingolipids in SPT mutants cause axonal morphology defects similar to loss of cell recognition molecule Dscam. Loss- and gain-of-function studies show that neuronal sphingolipids are critical to prevent aggregation of axonal and dendritic Dscam isoforms, thereby ensuring precise Dscam localization to support axon branch segregation. Furthermore, SPT mutations causing neurodegenerative HSAN-I disorder in humans also result in formation of stable Dscam aggregates and axonal branch phenotypes in Drosophila neurons, indicating a causal link between developmental protein sorting defects and neuronal dysfunction. Little is known about the initial segregation of axonal and dendritic proteins during the differentiation of newly generated neurons. Here authors use a forward genetic screen to identify the role of sphingolipids in regulating the sub-cellular distribution of Dscam for neuronal patterning in Drosophila Mushroom Bodies
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40
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Sivanantharajah L, Mudher A, Shepherd D. An evaluation of Drosophila as a model system for studying tauopathies such as Alzheimer's disease. J Neurosci Methods 2019; 319:77-88. [PMID: 30633936 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneumeth.2019.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2018] [Revised: 12/17/2018] [Accepted: 01/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Work spanning almost two decades using the fruit fly, Drosophila melanogaster, to study tau-mediated neurodegeneration has provided valuable and novel insights into the causes and mechanisms of tau-mediated toxicity and dysfunction in tauopathies such as Alzheimer's disease (AD). The fly has proven to be an excellent model for human diseases because of its cost efficiency, and the availability of powerful genetic tools for use in a comparatively less-complicated, but evolutionarily conserved, in vivo system. In this review, we provide a critical evaluation of the insights provided by fly models, highlighting both the advantages and limitations of the system. The fly has contributed to a greater understanding of the causes of tau abnormalities, the role of these abnormalities in mediating toxicity and/or dysfunction, and the nature of causative species mediating tau-toxicity. However, it is not possible to perfectly model all aspects of human degenerative diseases. What sets the fly apart from other animal models is its genetic tractability, which makes it highly amenable to overcoming experimental limitations. The explosion of genetic technology since the first fly disease models were established has translated into fly lines that allow for greater temporal control in restricting tau expression to single neuron types, and lines that can label and monitor the function of subcellular structures and components; thus, fly models offer an unprecedented view of the neurodegenerative process. Emerging genetic technology means that the fly provides an ever-evolving experimental platform for studying disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Amritpal Mudher
- Faculty of Natural and Environmental Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - David Shepherd
- School of Natural Sciences, Bangor University, Bangor, Gwynedd, UK
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41
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McLaughlin CN, Broihier HT. Keeping Neurons Young and Foxy: FoxOs Promote Neuronal Plasticity. Trends Genet 2018; 34:65-78. [PMID: 29102406 DOI: 10.1016/j.tig.2017.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2017] [Revised: 10/10/2017] [Accepted: 10/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Any adult who has tried to take up the piano or learn a new language is faced with the sobering realization that acquiring such skills is more challenging as an adult than as a child. Neuronal plasticity, or the malleability of brain circuits, declines with age. Young neurons tend to be more adaptable and can alter the size and strength of their connections more readily than can old neurons. Myriad circuit- and synapse-level mechanisms that shape plasticity have been identified. Yet, molecular mechanisms setting the overall competence of young neurons for distinct forms of plasticity remain largely obscure. Recent studies indicate evolutionarily conserved roles for FoxO proteins in establishing the capacity for cell-fate, morphological, and synaptic plasticity in neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colleen N McLaughlin
- Department of Neurosciences, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Heather T Broihier
- Department of Neurosciences, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA.
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42
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Tillery MML, Blake-Hedges C, Zheng Y, Buchwalter RA, Megraw TL. Centrosomal and Non-Centrosomal Microtubule-Organizing Centers (MTOCs) in Drosophila melanogaster. Cells 2018; 7:E121. [PMID: 30154378 PMCID: PMC6162459 DOI: 10.3390/cells7090121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2018] [Revised: 08/19/2018] [Accepted: 08/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The centrosome is the best-understood microtubule-organizing center (MTOC) and is essential in particular cell types and at specific stages during Drosophila development. The centrosome is not required zygotically for mitosis or to achieve full animal development. Nevertheless, centrosomes are essential maternally during cleavage cycles in the early embryo, for male meiotic divisions, for efficient division of epithelial cells in the imaginal wing disc, and for cilium/flagellum assembly in sensory neurons and spermatozoa. Importantly, asymmetric and polarized division of stem cells is regulated by centrosomes and by the asymmetric regulation of their microtubule (MT) assembly activity. More recently, the components and functions of a variety of non-centrosomal microtubule-organizing centers (ncMTOCs) have begun to be elucidated. Throughout Drosophila development, a wide variety of unique ncMTOCs form in epithelial and non-epithelial cell types at an assortment of subcellular locations. Some of these cell types also utilize the centrosomal MTOC, while others rely exclusively on ncMTOCs. The impressive variety of ncMTOCs being discovered provides novel insight into the diverse functions of MTOCs in cells and tissues. This review highlights our current knowledge of the composition, assembly, and functional roles of centrosomal and non-centrosomal MTOCs in Drosophila.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marisa M L Tillery
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Florida State University, 1115 West Call St., Tallahassee, FL 32306, USA.
| | - Caitlyn Blake-Hedges
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Florida State University, 1115 West Call St., Tallahassee, FL 32306, USA.
| | - Yiming Zheng
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Florida State University, 1115 West Call St., Tallahassee, FL 32306, USA.
| | - Rebecca A Buchwalter
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Florida State University, 1115 West Call St., Tallahassee, FL 32306, USA.
| | - Timothy L Megraw
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Florida State University, 1115 West Call St., Tallahassee, FL 32306, USA.
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43
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Identification of Proteins Required for Precise Positioning of Apc2 in Dendrites. G3-GENES GENOMES GENETICS 2018; 8:1841-1853. [PMID: 29602811 PMCID: PMC5940173 DOI: 10.1534/g3.118.200205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
In Drosophila neurons, uniform minus-end-out polarity in dendrites is maintained in part by kinesin-2-mediated steering of growing microtubules at branch points. Apc links the kinesin motor to growing microtubule plus ends and Apc2 recruits Apc to branch points where it functions. Because Apc2 acts to concentrate other steering proteins to branch points, we wished to understand how Apc2 is targeted. From an initial broad candidate RNAi screen, we found Miro (a mitochondrial transport protein), Ank2, Axin, spastin and Rac1 were required to position Apc2-GFP at dendrite branch points. YFP-Ank2-L8, Axin-GFP and mitochondria also localized to branch points suggesting the screen identified relevant proteins. By performing secondary screens, we found that energy production by mitochondria was key for Apc2-GFP positioning and spastin acted upstream of mitochondria. Ank2 seems to act independently from other players, except its membrane partner, Neuroglian (Nrg). Rac1 likely acts through Arp2/3 to generate branched actin to help recruit Apc2-GFP. Axin can function in a variety of wnt signaling pathways, one of which includes heterotrimeric G proteins and Frizzleds. Knockdown of Gαs, Gαo, Fz and Fz2, reduced targeting of Apc2 and Axin to branch points. Overall our data suggest that mitochondrial energy production, Nrg/Ank2, branched actin generated by Arp2/3 and Fz/G proteins/Axin function as four modules that control localization of the microtubule regulator Apc2 to its site of action in dendrite branch points.
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44
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Kelliher MT, Yue Y, Ng A, Kamiyama D, Huang B, Verhey KJ, Wildonger J. Autoinhibition of kinesin-1 is essential to the dendrite-specific localization of Golgi outposts. J Cell Biol 2018; 217:2531-2547. [PMID: 29728423 PMCID: PMC6028532 DOI: 10.1083/jcb.201708096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2017] [Revised: 03/01/2018] [Accepted: 04/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuronal polarity relies on the axon- or dendrite-specific localization of cargo by molecular motors such as kinesin-1. This study shows how autoinhibition regulates both kinesin-1 activity and localization to keep dendritic Golgi outposts from entering axons. Neuronal polarity relies on the selective localization of cargo to axons or dendrites. The molecular motor kinesin-1 moves cargo into axons but is also active in dendrites. This raises the question of how kinesin-1 activity is regulated to maintain the compartment-specific localization of cargo. Our in vivo structure–function analysis of endogenous Drosophila melanogaster kinesin-1 reveals a novel role for autoinhibition in enabling the dendrite-specific localization of Golgi outposts. Mutations that disrupt kinesin-1 autoinhibition result in the axonal mislocalization of Golgi outposts. Autoinhibition also regulates kinesin-1 localization. Uninhibited kinesin-1 accumulates in axons and is depleted from dendrites, correlating with the change in outpost distribution and dendrite growth defects. Genetic interaction tests show that a balance of kinesin-1 inhibition and dynein activity is necessary to localize Golgi outposts to dendrites and keep them from entering axons. Our data indicate that kinesin-1 activity is precisely regulated by autoinhibition to achieve the selective localization of dendritic cargo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael T Kelliher
- Integrated Program in Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI.,Biochemistry Department, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI
| | - Yang Yue
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Ashley Ng
- Biochemistry Department, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI.,Biochemistry Scholars Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI
| | - Daichi Kamiyama
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Bo Huang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Kristen J Verhey
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Jill Wildonger
- Biochemistry Department, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI
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45
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Azuma Y, Mizuta I, Tokuda T, Mizuno T. Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Model. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2018; 1076:79-95. [PMID: 29951816 DOI: 10.1007/978-981-13-0529-0_6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal neurodegenerative disease that affects upper and lower motor neurons in the brain and the spinal cord. Due to the progressive neurodegeneration, ALS leads to paralysis and death caused by respiratory failure 2-5 years after the onset of symptoms. There is no effective cure available. Most ALS cases are sporadic, without family history, whereas 10% of the cases are familial. Identification of variants in more than 30 different loci has provided insight into the pathogenic molecular mechanisms mediating disease pathogenesis. Studies of a Drosophila melanogaster model for each of the ALS genes can contribute to uncovering pathophysiological mechanism of ALS and finding targets of the disease-modifying therapy. In this review, we focus on three ALS-causing genes: TAR DNA-binding protein (TDP-43), fused in sarcoma/translocated in liposarcoma (FUS/TLS), and chromosome 9 open reading frame 72 (C9orf72).
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Affiliation(s)
- Yumiko Azuma
- Department of Neurology, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan.
| | - Ikuko Mizuta
- Department of Neurology, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Takahiko Tokuda
- Department of Neurology, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
- Molecular Pathobiology of Brain Diseases, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Toshiki Mizuno
- Department of Neurology, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
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46
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Herzmann S, Götzelmann I, Reekers LF, Rumpf S. Spatial regulation of microtubule disruption during dendrite pruning in Drosophila. Development 2018; 145:dev.156950. [DOI: 10.1242/dev.156950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2017] [Accepted: 04/18/2018] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Large scale neurite pruning is an important specificity mechanism during neuronal morphogenesis. Drosophila sensory neurons prune their larval dendrites during metamorphosis. Pruning dendrites are severed in their proximal regions, but how this spatial information is encoded is not clear. Dendrite severing is preceded by local breakdown of dendritic microtubules through PAR-1-mediated inhibition of Tau. Here, we investigated spatial aspects of microtubule breakdown during dendrite pruning. Live imaging of fluorescently tagged tubulin shows that microtubule breakdown first occurs at proximal dendritic branchpoints, followed by breakdown at more distal branchpoints, suggesting that the process is triggered by a signal emanating from the soma. In fly dendrites, microtubules are arranged in uniformly oriented arrays where all plus ends face towards the soma. Mutants in kinesin-1 and -2, which are required for uniform microtubule orientation, cause defects in microtubule breakdown and dendrite pruning. Our data suggest that the local microtubule organization at branch points determines where microtubule breakdown occurs. Local microtubule organization may therefore contribute spatial information for severing sites during dendrite pruning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Svende Herzmann
- Insitute for Neurobiology, University of Münster, Badestrasse 9, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Ina Götzelmann
- Insitute for Neurobiology, University of Münster, Badestrasse 9, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Lea-Franziska Reekers
- Insitute for Neurobiology, University of Münster, Badestrasse 9, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Sebastian Rumpf
- Insitute for Neurobiology, University of Münster, Badestrasse 9, 48149 Münster, Germany
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47
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Cyclic AMP-dependent plasticity underlies rapid changes in odor coding associated with reward learning. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2017; 115:E448-E457. [PMID: 29284750 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1709037115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Learning and memory rely on dopamine and downstream cAMP-dependent plasticity across diverse organisms. Despite the central role of cAMP signaling, it is not known how cAMP-dependent plasticity drives coherent changes in neuronal physiology that encode the memory trace, or engram. In Drosophila, the mushroom body (MB) is critically involved in olfactory classical conditioning, and cAMP signaling molecules are necessary and sufficient for normal memory in intrinsic MB neurons. To evaluate the role of cAMP-dependent plasticity in learning, we examined how cAMP manipulations and olfactory classical conditioning modulate olfactory responses in the MB with in vivo imaging. Elevating cAMP pharmacologically or optogenetically produced plasticity in MB neurons, altering their responses to odorants. Odor-evoked Ca2+ responses showed net facilitation across anatomical regions. At the single-cell level, neurons exhibited heterogeneous responses to cAMP elevation, suggesting that cAMP drives plasticity to discrete subsets of MB neurons. Olfactory appetitive conditioning enhanced MB odor responses, mimicking the cAMP-dependent plasticity in directionality and magnitude. Elevating cAMP to equivalent levels as appetitive conditioning also produced plasticity, suggesting that the cAMP generated during conditioning affects odor-evoked responses in the MB. Finally, we found that this plasticity was dependent on the Rutabaga type I adenylyl cyclase, linking cAMP-dependent plasticity to behavioral modification. Overall, these data demonstrate that learning produces robust cAMP-dependent plasticity in intrinsic MB neurons, which is biased toward naturalistic reward learning. This suggests that cAMP signaling may serve to modulate intrinsic MB responses toward salient stimuli.
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48
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Jenkins BV, Saunders HAJ, Record HL, Johnson-Schlitz DM, Wildonger J. Effects of mutating α-tubulin lysine 40 on sensory dendrite development. J Cell Sci 2017; 130:4120-4131. [PMID: 29122984 PMCID: PMC5769580 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.210203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2017] [Accepted: 11/06/2017] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Microtubules are essential for neuronal structure and function. Axonal and dendritic microtubules are enriched in post-translational modifications that impact microtubule dynamics, transport and microtubule-associated proteins. Acetylation of α-tubulin lysine 40 (K40) is a prominent and conserved modification of neuronal microtubules. However, the cellular role of microtubule acetylation remains controversial. To resolve how microtubule acetylation might affect neuronal morphogenesis, we mutated endogenous α-tubulin in vivo using a new Drosophila strain that facilitates the rapid knock-in of designer αTub84B alleles (the predominant α-tubulin-encoding gene in flies). Leveraging our new strain, we found that microtubule acetylation, as well as polyglutamylation and (de)tyrosination, is not essential for survival. However, we found that dendrite branch refinement in sensory neurons relies on α-tubulin K40. Mutagenesis of K40 reveals moderate yet significant changes in dendritic lysosome transport, microtubule polymerization and Futsch protein distribution in dendrites but not in axons. Our studies point to an unappreciated role for α-tubulin K40 and acetylation in dendrite morphogenesis. While our results are consistent with the idea that acetylation tunes microtubule function within neurons, they also suggest there may be an acetylation-independent requirement for α-tubulin K40. This article has an associated First Person interview with the first author of the paper. Highlighted Article: Neurons are enriched in post-translationally modified microtubules. Targeted mutagenesis of endogenous α-tubulin in flies reveals that dendrite branch refinement is altered by acetylation-blocking mutations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian V Jenkins
- Biochemistry Department, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Harriet A J Saunders
- Biochemistry Department, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA.,Integrated Program in Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Helena L Record
- Biochemistry Department, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | | | - Jill Wildonger
- Biochemistry Department, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA
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49
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Dias RA, Gonçalves BP, da Rocha JF, da Cruz E Silva OAB, da Silva AMF, Vieira SI. NeuronRead, an open source semi-automated tool for morphometric analysis of phase contrast and fluorescence neuronal images. Mol Cell Neurosci 2017; 85:57-69. [PMID: 28847569 DOI: 10.1016/j.mcn.2017.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2017] [Revised: 07/07/2017] [Accepted: 08/10/2017] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurons are specialized cells of the Central Nervous System whose function is intricately related to the neuritic network they develop to transmit information. Morphological evaluation of this network and other neuronal structures is required to establish relationships between neuronal morphology and function, and may allow monitoring physiological and pathophysiologic alterations. Fluorescence-based microphotographs are the most widely used in cellular bioimaging, but phase contrast (PhC) microphotographs are easier to obtain, more affordable, and do not require invasive, complicated and disruptive techniques. Despite the various freeware tools available for fluorescence-based images analysis, few exist that can tackle the more elusive and harder-to-analyze PhC images. To surpass this, an interactive semi-automated image processing workflow was developed to easily extract relevant information (e.g. total neuritic length, average cell body area) from both PhC and fluorescence neuronal images. This workflow, named 'NeuronRead', was developed in the form of an ImageJ macro. Its robustness and adaptability were tested and validated on rat cortical primary neurons under control and differentiation inhibitory conditions. Validation included a comparison to manual determinations and to a golden standard freeware tool for fluorescence image analysis. NeuronRead was subsequently applied to PhC images of neurons at distinct differentiation days and exposed or not to DAPT, a pharmacological inhibitor of the γ-secretase enzyme, which cleaves the well-known Alzheimer's amyloid precursor protein (APP) and the Notch receptor. Data obtained confirms a neuritogenic regulatory role for γ-secretase products and validates NeuronRead as a time- and cost-effective useful monitoring tool.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto A Dias
- Cell Differentiation and Regeneration group, Institute of Biomedicine (iBiMED), Department of Medical Sciences, Universidade de Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal; Neurosciences and Signalling group, Institute of Biomedicine (iBiMED), Department of Medical Sciences, Universidade de Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Bruno P Gonçalves
- Cell Differentiation and Regeneration group, Institute of Biomedicine (iBiMED), Department of Medical Sciences, Universidade de Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal; Neurosciences and Signalling group, Institute of Biomedicine (iBiMED), Department of Medical Sciences, Universidade de Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Joana F da Rocha
- Cell Differentiation and Regeneration group, Institute of Biomedicine (iBiMED), Department of Medical Sciences, Universidade de Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal; Neurosciences and Signalling group, Institute of Biomedicine (iBiMED), Department of Medical Sciences, Universidade de Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Odete A B da Cruz E Silva
- Neurosciences and Signalling group, Institute of Biomedicine (iBiMED), Department of Medical Sciences, Universidade de Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Augusto M F da Silva
- Instituto de Engenharia Electrónica e Telemática (IEETA), Departamento de Electrónica e Telecomunicações (DETI), Universidade de Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Sandra I Vieira
- Cell Differentiation and Regeneration group, Institute of Biomedicine (iBiMED), Department of Medical Sciences, Universidade de Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal; Neurosciences and Signalling group, Institute of Biomedicine (iBiMED), Department of Medical Sciences, Universidade de Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal.
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50
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Probing microtubules polarity in mitotic spindles in situ using Interferometric Second Harmonic Generation Microscopy. Sci Rep 2017; 7:6758. [PMID: 28754928 PMCID: PMC5533768 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-06648-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2017] [Accepted: 06/15/2017] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The polarity of microtubules is thought to be involved in spindle assembly, cytokinesis or active molecular transport. However, its exact role remains poorly understood, mainly because of the challenge to measure microtubule polarity in intact cells. We report here the use of fast Interferometric Second Harmonic Generation microscopy to study the polarity of microtubules forming the mitotic spindles in a zebrafish embryo. This technique provides a powerful tool to study mitotic spindle formation and may be directly transferable for investigating the kinetics and function of microtubule polarity in other aspects of subcellular motility or in native tissues.
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