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Chen JJ, Kaufmann WA, Chen C, Arai I, Kim O, Shigemoto R, Jonas P. Developmental transformation of Ca 2+ channel-vesicle nanotopography at a central GABAergic synapse. Neuron 2024; 112:755-771.e9. [PMID: 38215739 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2023.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2022] [Revised: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/14/2024]
Abstract
The coupling between Ca2+ channels and release sensors is a key factor defining the signaling properties of a synapse. However, the coupling nanotopography at many synapses remains unknown, and it is unclear how it changes during development. To address these questions, we examined coupling at the cerebellar inhibitory basket cell (BC)-Purkinje cell (PC) synapse. Biophysical analysis of transmission by paired recording and intracellular pipette perfusion revealed that the effects of exogenous Ca2+ chelators decreased during development, despite constant reliance of release on P/Q-type Ca2+ channels. Structural analysis by freeze-fracture replica labeling (FRL) and transmission electron microscopy (EM) indicated that presynaptic P/Q-type Ca2+ channels formed nanoclusters throughout development, whereas docked vesicles were only clustered at later developmental stages. Modeling suggested a developmental transformation from a more random to a more clustered coupling nanotopography. Thus, presynaptic signaling developmentally approaches a point-to-point configuration, optimizing speed, reliability, and energy efficiency of synaptic transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing-Jing Chen
- Institute of Science and Technology Austria (ISTA), Am Campus 1, 3400 Klosterneuburg, Austria
| | - Walter A Kaufmann
- Institute of Science and Technology Austria (ISTA), Am Campus 1, 3400 Klosterneuburg, Austria
| | - Chong Chen
- Institute of Science and Technology Austria (ISTA), Am Campus 1, 3400 Klosterneuburg, Austria
| | - Itaru Arai
- Institute of Science and Technology Austria (ISTA), Am Campus 1, 3400 Klosterneuburg, Austria
| | - Olena Kim
- Institute of Science and Technology Austria (ISTA), Am Campus 1, 3400 Klosterneuburg, Austria
| | - Ryuichi Shigemoto
- Institute of Science and Technology Austria (ISTA), Am Campus 1, 3400 Klosterneuburg, Austria
| | - Peter Jonas
- Institute of Science and Technology Austria (ISTA), Am Campus 1, 3400 Klosterneuburg, Austria.
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2
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Rollenhagen A, Anstötz M, Zimmermann K, Kasugai Y, Sätzler K, Molnar E, Ferraguti F, Lübke JHR. Layer-specific distribution and expression pattern of AMPA- and NMDA-type glutamate receptors in the barrel field of the adult rat somatosensory cortex: a quantitative electron microscopic analysis. Cereb Cortex 2023; 33:2342-2360. [PMID: 35732315 PMCID: PMC9977369 DOI: 10.1093/cercor/bhac212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2021] [Revised: 05/05/2022] [Accepted: 05/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
AMPA (α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid) and NMDA (N-methyl-d-aspartate) glutamate receptors are driving forces for synaptic transmission and plasticity at neocortical synapses. However, their distribution pattern in the adult rat neocortex is largely unknown and was quantified using freeze fracture replication combined with postimmunogold-labeling. Both receptors were co-localized at layer (L)4 and L5 postsynaptic densities (PSDs). At L4 dendritic shaft and spine PSDs, the number of gold grains detecting AMPA was similar, whereas at L5 shaft PSDs AMPA-receptors outnumbered those on spine PSDs. Their number was significantly higher at L5 vs. L4 PSDs. At L4 and L5 dendritic shaft PSDs, the number of gold grains detecting GluN1 was ~2-fold higher than at spine PSDs. The number of gold grains detecting the GluN1-subunit was higher for both shaft and spine PSDs in L5 vs. L4. Both receptors showed a large variability in L4 and L5. A high correlation between the number of gold grains and PSD size for both receptors and targets was observed. Both receptors were distributed over the entire PSD but showed a layer- and target-specific distribution pattern. The layer- and target-specific distribution of AMPA and GluN1 glutamate receptors partially contribute to the observed functional differences in synaptic transmission and plasticity in the neocortex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Astrid Rollenhagen
- Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine INM-10, Research Centre Jülich GmbH, Leo Brandt Str., Jülich 52425, Germany
| | - Max Anstötz
- Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine INM-10, Research Centre Jülich GmbH, Leo Brandt Str., Jülich 52425, Germany.,Institute of Anatomy II, Medical Faculty, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich-Heine-University, Universitätsstr. 1, Düsseldorf 40001, Germany
| | - Kerstin Zimmermann
- Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine INM-10, Research Centre Jülich GmbH, Leo Brandt Str., Jülich 52425, Germany
| | - Yu Kasugai
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Peter Mayr Strasse 1a, Innsbruck A-6020, Austria
| | - Kurt Sätzler
- School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Ulster, Cromore Rd., Londonderry BT52 1SA, United Kingdom
| | - Elek Molnar
- School of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience, University of Bristol, University Walk, Bristol BS8 1TD, United Kingdom
| | - Francesco Ferraguti
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Peter Mayr Strasse 1a, Innsbruck A-6020, Austria
| | - Joachim H R Lübke
- Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine INM-10, Research Centre Jülich GmbH, Leo Brandt Str., Jülich 52425, Germany.,Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, RWTH/Medical University Aachen, Pauwelstr. 30, Aachen 52074, Germany.,JARA Translational Medicine Jülich/Aachen, Germany
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3
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Osakada H, Fujimoto T. On-grid labeling method for freeze-fracture replicas. Microscopy (Oxf) 2023; 72:56-59. [PMID: 36181465 DOI: 10.1093/jmicro/dfac048] [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: 08/16/2022] [Revised: 09/28/2022] [Accepted: 09/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Sodium dodecyl sulfate-treated freeze-fracture replica labeling (SDS-FRL) is an electron microscopic (EM) method that can define the two-dimensional distribution of membrane proteins and lipids in a quantitative manner. Despite its unsurpassed merit, SDS-FRL has been adopted in a limited number of labs, probably because it requires a laborious labeling process as well as equipment and technique for freeze-fracture. Here, we present a method that reduces the manual labor significantly by mounting freeze-fracture replicas on EM grids prior to labeling. This was made possible by the discovery that freeze-fracture replicas invariably adhere to the carbon-coated formvar membrane with their platinum-carbon side, ensuring that the membrane molecules retained in replicas are accessible to labeling solutions. The replicas mounted on EM grids can be stored dry until labeling, checked by light microscopy before labeling and labeled in the same manner as tissue sections. This on-grid method will make SDS-FRL easier to access for many researchers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroko Osakada
- Laboratory of Molecular Cell Biology, Research Institute for Diseases of Old Age, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-1-1 Hongo, Bunkyo, Tokyo 113-8421, Japan
| | - Toyoshi Fujimoto
- Laboratory of Molecular Cell Biology, Research Institute for Diseases of Old Age, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-1-1 Hongo, Bunkyo, Tokyo 113-8421, Japan
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4
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Liu W, Rask-Andersen H. GJB2 and GJB6 gene transcripts in the human cochlea: A study using RNAscope, confocal, and super-resolution structured illumination microscopy. Front Mol Neurosci 2022; 15:973646. [PMID: 36204137 PMCID: PMC9530750 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2022.973646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Gap junction (GJ) proteins, connexin26 and 30, are highly prevalent in the human cochlea (HC), where they are involved in transcellular signaling, metabolic supply, and fluid homeostasis. Their genes, GJB2 and GJB6, are both located at the DFNB1 locus on chromosome 13q12. Mutations in GJB2 may cause mild to profound non-syndromic deafness. Here, we analyzed for the first time the various expressions of GJB2 and GJB6 gene transcripts in the different cell networks in the HC using the RNAscope technique. Materials and methods Archival paraformaldehyde-fixed sections of surgically obtained HC were used to label single mRNA oligonucleotides using the sensitive multiplex RNAscope® technique with fluorescent-tagged probes. Positive and negative controls also included the localization of ATP1A1, ATP1A2, and KCNJ10 gene transcripts in order to validate the specificity of labeling. Results Confocal and super-resolution structured illumination microscopy (SR-SIM) detected single gene transcripts as brightly stained puncta. The GJB2 and GJB6 gene transcripts were distributed in the epithelial and connective tissue systems in all three cochlear turns. The largest number of GJB2 and GJB6 gene transcripts was in the outer sulcus, spiral ligament, and stria vascularis (SV). Oligonucleotides were present in the supporting cells of the organ of Corti (OC), spiral limbus fibrocytes, and the floor of the scala vestibuli. Multiplex gene data suggest that cells in the cochlear lateral wall contain either GJB2 or GJB6 gene transcripts or both. The GJB6, but not GJB2, gene transcripts were found in the intermediate cells but none were found in the marginal cells. There were no GJB2 or GJB6 gene transcripts found in the hair cells and only a few in the spiral ganglion cells. Conclusion Both GJB2 and GJB6 mRNA gene transcripts were localized in cells in the adult HC using RNAscope®in situ hybridization (ISH) and high resolution microscopy. Generally, GJB6 dominated over GJB2, except in the basal cells. Results suggest that cells may contain either GJB2 or GJB6 gene transcripts or both. This may be consistent with specialized GJ plaques having separate channel permeability and gating properties. A reduction in the number of GJB2 gene transcripts was found in the basal turn. Such information may be useful for future gene therapy.
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Guerrero-Given D, Goldin SL, Thomas CI, Anthony SA, Jerez D, Kamasawa N. Gold In-and-Out: A Toolkit for Analyzing Subcellular Distribution of Immunogold-Labeled Membrane Proteins in Freeze-Fracture Replica Images. Front Neuroanat 2022; 16:855218. [PMID: 35444519 PMCID: PMC9014018 DOI: 10.3389/fnana.2022.855218] [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: 01/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Integral membrane proteins such as ion channels, transporters, and receptors shape cell activity and mediate cell-to-cell communication in the brain. The distribution, quantity, and clustering arrangement of those proteins contribute to the physiological properties of the cell; therefore, precise quantification of their state can be used to gain insight into cellular function. Using a highly sensitive immunoelectron microscopy technique called sodium dodecyl sulfate-digested freeze-fracture replica immunogold labeling (SDS-FRL), multiple membrane proteins can be tagged with different sizes of immunogold particles at once and visualized two-dimensionally. For quantification, gold particles in the images must be annotated, and then different mathematical and statistical methods must be applied to characterize the distribution states of proteins of interest. To perform such analyses in a user-friendly manner, we developed a program with a simple graphical user interface called Gold In-and-Out (GIO), which integrates several classical and novel analysis methods for immunogold labeled replicas into one self-contained package. GIO takes an input of particle coordinates, then allows users to implement analysis methods such as nearest neighbor distance (NND) and particle clustering. The program not only performs the selected analysis but also automatically compares the results of the real distribution to a random distribution of the same number of particles on the membrane region of interest. In addition to classical approaches for analyzing protein distribution, GIO includes new tools to analyze the positional bias of a target protein relative to a morphological landmark such as dendritic spines, and can also be applied for synaptic protein analysis. Gold Rippler provides a normalized metric of particle density that is resistant to differences in labeling efficiency among samples, while Gold Star is useful for quantifying distances between a protein and landmark. This package aims to help standardize analysis methods for subcellular and synaptic protein localization with a user-friendly interface while increasing the efficiency of these time-consuming analyses.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Naomi Kamasawa
- The Imaging Center and Electron Microscopy Core Facility, Max Planck Institute for Neuroscience, Jupiter, FL, United States
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Takikawa K, Nishimune H. Similarity and Diversity of Presynaptic Molecules at Neuromuscular Junctions and Central Synapses. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12020179. [PMID: 35204679 PMCID: PMC8961632 DOI: 10.3390/biom12020179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2021] [Revised: 01/17/2022] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Synaptic transmission is essential for controlling motor functions and maintaining brain functions such as walking, breathing, cognition, learning, and memory. Neurotransmitter release is regulated by presynaptic molecules assembled in active zones of presynaptic terminals. The size of presynaptic terminals varies, but the size of a single active zone and the types of presynaptic molecules are highly conserved among neuromuscular junctions (NMJs) and central synapses. Three parameters play an important role in the determination of neurotransmitter release properties at NMJs and central excitatory/inhibitory synapses: the number of presynaptic molecular clusters, the protein families of the presynaptic molecules, and the distance between presynaptic molecules and voltage-gated calcium channels. In addition, dysfunction of presynaptic molecules causes clinical symptoms such as motor and cognitive decline in patients with various neurological disorders and during aging. This review focuses on the molecular mechanisms responsible for the functional similarities and differences between excitatory and inhibitory synapses in the peripheral and central nervous systems, and summarizes recent findings regarding presynaptic molecules assembled in the active zone. Furthermore, we discuss the relationship between functional alterations of presynaptic molecules and dysfunction of NMJs or central synapses in diseases and during aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenji Takikawa
- Laboratory of Neurobiology of Aging, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Gerontology, 35-2 Sakaecho, Itabashi-ku, Tokyo 173-0015, Japan;
| | - Hiroshi Nishimune
- Laboratory of Neurobiology of Aging, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Gerontology, 35-2 Sakaecho, Itabashi-ku, Tokyo 173-0015, Japan;
- Department of Applied Biological Science, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, 3-8-1 Harumi-cho, Fuchu-shi, Tokyo 183-8538, Japan
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +81-3-3964-3241
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7
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Beckmann A, Recktenwald J, Ferdinand A, Grißmer A, Meier C. First Responders to Hyperosmotic Stress in Murine Astrocytes: Connexin 43 Gap Junctions Are Subject to an Immediate Ultrastructural Reorganization. BIOLOGY 2021; 10:biology10121307. [PMID: 34943223 PMCID: PMC8698406 DOI: 10.3390/biology10121307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2021] [Revised: 12/04/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Simple Summary Gap junctions are intercellular channels that provide the means for direct transport of small molecules, ions, and water between connected cells. With these functions, gap junctions are essential for the maintenance of astrocytic homeostasis and of particular importance in the context of pathophysiological disbalances. These include the hyperosmolar hyperglycemic syndrome or the pathology after brain trauma. We demonstrate that short-term hyperosmolarity reduces intercellular communication via gap junctions. These functional changes coincide with the transformation of gap junction ultrastructure as evidenced by freeze-fracture replica immunolabeling and transmission electron microscopy. The hyperosmolarity-induced immediate changes in the ultrastructural assembly of connexons, the protein constituents of gap junction channels, have not been described in astrocytes before and are revealing the coherence of structure and function in gap junctions. Phosphorylation of Connexin 43, the main gap junction protein in astrocytes, at amino acid 368 (Serine) might link the two. Abstract In a short-term model of hyperosmotic stress, primary murine astrocytes were stimulated with a hyperosmolar sucrose solution for five minutes. Astrocytic gap junctions, which are mainly composed of Connexin (Cx) 43, displayed immediate ultrastructural changes, demonstrated by freeze–fracture replica immunogold labeling: their area, perimeter, and distance of intramembrane particles increased, whereas particle numbers per area decreased. Ultrastructural changes were, however, not accompanied by changes in Cx43 mRNA expression. In contrast, transcription of the gap junction regulator zonula occludens (ZO) protein 1 significantly increased, whereas its protein expression was unaffected. Phosphorylation of Serine (S) 368 of the Cx43 C–terminus has previously been associated with gap junction disassembly and reduction in gap junction communication. Hyperosmolar sucrose treatment led to enhanced phosphorylation of Cx43S368 and was accompanied by inhibition of gap junctional intercellular communication, demonstrated by a scrape loading-dye transfer assay. Taken together, Cx43 gap junctions are fast reacting elements in response to hyperosmolar challenges and can therefore be considered as one of the first responders to hyperosmolarity. In this process, phosphorylation of Cx43S368 was associated with disassembly of gap junctions and inhibition of their function. Thus, modulation of the gap junction assembly might represent a target in the treatment of brain edema or trauma.
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8
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Radulović S, Sunkara S, Maurer C, Leitinger G. Digging Deeper: Advancements in Visualization of Inhibitory Synapses in Neurodegenerative Disorders. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:12470. [PMID: 34830352 PMCID: PMC8623765 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222212470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2021] [Revised: 11/15/2021] [Accepted: 11/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent research has provided strong evidence that neurodegeneration may develop from an imbalance between synaptic structural components in the brain. Lately, inhibitory synapses communicating via the neurotransmitters GABA or glycine have come to the center of attention. Increasing evidence suggests that imbalance in the structural composition of inhibitory synapses affect deeply the ability of neurons to communicate effectively over synaptic connections. Progressive failure of synaptic plasticity and memory are thus hallmarks of neurodegenerative diseases. In order to prove that structural changes at synapses contribute to neurodegeneration, we need to visualize single-molecule interactions at synaptic sites in an exact spatial and time frame. This visualization has been restricted in terms of spatial and temporal resolution. New developments in electron microscopy and super-resolution microscopy have improved spatial and time resolution tremendously, opening up numerous possibilities. Here we critically review current and recently developed methods for high-resolution visualization of inhibitory synapses in the context of neurodegenerative diseases. We present advantages, strengths, weaknesses, and current limitations for selected methods in research, as well as present a future perspective. A range of new options has become available that will soon help understand the involvement of inhibitory synapses in neurodegenerative disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Snježana Radulović
- Gottfried Schatz Research Center, Division of Cell Biology, Histology and Embryology, Medical University of Graz, 8010 Graz, Austria; (S.R.); (S.S.)
| | - Sowmya Sunkara
- Gottfried Schatz Research Center, Division of Cell Biology, Histology and Embryology, Medical University of Graz, 8010 Graz, Austria; (S.R.); (S.S.)
| | - Christa Maurer
- Gottfried Schatz Research Center, Division of Macroscopic and Clinical Anatomy, Medical University of Graz, 8010 Graz, Austria;
| | - Gerd Leitinger
- Gottfried Schatz Research Center, Division of Cell Biology, Histology and Embryology, Medical University of Graz, 8010 Graz, Austria; (S.R.); (S.S.)
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9
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Akisaka T. Platinum replicas of broken-open osteoclasts imaged by transmission electron microscopy. J Oral Biosci 2021; 63:307-318. [PMID: 34628004 DOI: 10.1016/j.job.2021.09.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2021] [Revised: 09/02/2021] [Accepted: 09/18/2021] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Preserving the cellular structure at the highest possible resolution is a prerequisite for morphological studies to deepen our understanding of cellular functions. A revival of interest in rapid-freezing methods combined with breaking-open techniques has taken place with the development of effective and informative approaches in platinum replica electron microscopy, thus providing new approaches to address unresolved issues in cell biology. HIGHLIGHT The images produced with platinum replicas revealed 3D structures of the cell interior: (1) cell membranes associated with highly organized cytoskeletons, including podosomes or geodomes, (2) heterogeneous clathrin assemblies and membrane skeletons on the inner side of the membrane, and (3) organization of the cytoskeleton after detergent extraction. CONCLUSION In this review, I will focus on the platinum replica method after brokenopen cells have been broken open with mechanical shearing or detergent extraction. Often forgotten nowadays is the use of platinum replicas with stereomicroscopic observations for transmission electron microscopy study; these "old-fashioned" imaging techniques, combined with the breaking-open technique represent a highly informative approach to deepen our understanding of the organization of the cell interior. These are still being pursued to answer outstanding biological questions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Toshitaka Akisaka
- Department of Oral Anatomy and Neurobiology, Graduate School of Dentistry, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan.
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10
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Pereyra M, Medina JH. AMPA Receptors: A Key Piece in the Puzzle of Memory Retrieval. Front Hum Neurosci 2021; 15:729051. [PMID: 34621161 PMCID: PMC8490764 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2021.729051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2021] [Accepted: 08/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Retrieval constitutes a highly regulated and dynamic phase in memory processing. Its rapid temporal scales require a coordinated molecular chain of events at the synaptic level that support transient memory trace reactivation. AMPA receptors (AMPAR) drive the majority of excitatory transmission in the brain and its dynamic features match the singular fast timescales of memory retrieval. Here we provide a review on AMPAR contribution to memory retrieval regarding its dynamic movements along the synaptic compartments, its changes in receptor number and subunit composition that take place in activity dependent processes associated with retrieval. We highlight on the differential regulations exerted by AMPAR subunits in plasticity processes and its impact on memory recall.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Pereyra
- Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Jorge H Medina
- Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Instituto de Biología Celular y Neurociencia "Dr. Eduardo De Robertis" (IBCN), CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Instituto Tecnológico de Buenos Aires (ITBA), Buenos Aires, Argentina
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11
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Koudatsu S, Masatani T, Konishi R, Asada M, Hakimi H, Kurokawa Y, Tomioku K, Kaneko O, Fujita A. Glycosphingolipid GM3 is localized in both exoplasmic and cytoplasmic leaflets of Plasmodium falciparum malaria parasite plasma membrane. Sci Rep 2021; 11:14890. [PMID: 34290278 PMCID: PMC8295280 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-94037-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2021] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Lipid rafts, sterol-rich and sphingolipid-rich microdomains on the plasma membrane are important in processes like cell signaling, adhesion, and protein and lipid transport. The virulence of many eukaryotic parasites is related to raft microdomains on the cell membrane. In the malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum, glycosylphosphatidylinositol-anchored proteins, which are important for invasion and are possible targets for vaccine development, are localized in the raft. However, rafts are poorly understood. We used quick-freezing and freeze-fracture immuno-electron microscopy to examine the localization of monosialotetrahexosylganglioside (GM1) and monosialodihexosylganglioside (GM3), putative raft microdomain components in P. falciparum and infected erythrocytes. This method immobilizes molecules in situ, minimizing artifacts. GM3 was localized in the exoplasmic (EF) and cytoplasmic leaflets (PF) of the parasite and the parasitophorous vacuole (PV) membranes, but solely in the EF of the infected erythrocyte membrane, as in the case for uninfected erythrocytes. Phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PtdIns(4,5)P2) was localized solely in the PF of erythrocyte, parasite, and PV membranes. This is the first time that GM3, the major component of raft microdomains, was found in the PF of a biological membrane. The unique localization of raft microdomains may be due to P. falciparum lipid metabolism and its unique biological processes, like protein transport from the parasite to infected erythrocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiomi Koudatsu
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology and Biochemistry, Basic Veterinary Science, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kagoshima University, Korimoto 1-21-24, Kagoshima, 890-0065, Japan
| | - Tatsunori Masatani
- Transboundary Animal Diseases Research Center, Joint Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kagoshima University, Korimoto 1-21-24, Kagoshima, 890-0065, Japan.,Laboratory of Zoonotic Diseases, Faculty of Applied Biological Sciences, Gifu University, 1-1 Yanagido, Gifu, 501-1193, Japan
| | - Rikako Konishi
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology and Biochemistry, Basic Veterinary Science, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kagoshima University, Korimoto 1-21-24, Kagoshima, 890-0065, Japan
| | - Masahito Asada
- Department of Protozoology, Institute of Tropical Medicine (NEKKEN), Nagasaki University, Sakamoto 1-12-4, Nagasaki, 852-8523, Japan.,National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Inada-cho, Obihiro, 080-8555, Japan
| | - Hassan Hakimi
- Department of Protozoology, Institute of Tropical Medicine (NEKKEN), Nagasaki University, Sakamoto 1-12-4, Nagasaki, 852-8523, Japan.,National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Inada-cho, Obihiro, 080-8555, Japan
| | - Yuna Kurokawa
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology and Biochemistry, Basic Veterinary Science, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kagoshima University, Korimoto 1-21-24, Kagoshima, 890-0065, Japan
| | - Kanna Tomioku
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology and Biochemistry, Basic Veterinary Science, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kagoshima University, Korimoto 1-21-24, Kagoshima, 890-0065, Japan
| | - Osamu Kaneko
- Department of Protozoology, Institute of Tropical Medicine (NEKKEN), Nagasaki University, Sakamoto 1-12-4, Nagasaki, 852-8523, Japan
| | - Akikazu Fujita
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology and Biochemistry, Basic Veterinary Science, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kagoshima University, Korimoto 1-21-24, Kagoshima, 890-0065, Japan.
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12
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Seewald A, Schönherr S, Hörtnagl H, Ehrlich I, Schmuckermair C, Ferraguti F. Fear Memory Retrieval Is Associated With a Reduction in AMPA Receptor Density at Thalamic to Amygdala Intercalated Cell Synapses. Front Synaptic Neurosci 2021; 13:634558. [PMID: 34295235 PMCID: PMC8290482 DOI: 10.3389/fnsyn.2021.634558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2020] [Accepted: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The amygdala plays a crucial role in attaching emotional significance to environmental cues. Its intercalated cell masses (ITC) are tight clusters of GABAergic neurons, which are distributed around the basolateral amygdala complex. Distinct ITC clusters are involved in the acquisition and extinction of conditioned fear responses. Previously, we have shown that fear memory retrieval reduces the AMPA/NMDA ratio at thalamic afferents to ITC neurons within the dorsal medio-paracapsular cluster. Here, we investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying the fear-mediated reduction in the AMPA/NMDA ratio at these synapses and, in particular, whether specific changes in the synaptic density of AMPA receptors underlie the observed change. To this aim, we used a detergent-digested freeze-fracture replica immunolabeling technique (FRIL) approach that enables to visualize the spatial distribution of intrasynaptic AMPA receptors at high resolution. AMPA receptors were detected using an antibody raised against an epitope common to all AMPA subunits. To visualize thalamic inputs, we virally transduced the posterior thalamic complex with Channelrhodopsin 2-YFP, which is anterogradely transported along axons. Using face-matched replica, we confirmed that the postsynaptic elements were ITC neurons due to their prominent expression of μ-opioid receptors. With this approach, we show that, following auditory fear conditioning in mice, the formation and retrieval of fear memory is linked to a significant reduction in the density of AMPA receptors, particularly at spine synapses formed by inputs of the posterior intralaminar thalamic and medial geniculate nuclei onto identified ITC neurons. Our study is one of the few that has directly linked the regulation of AMPA receptor trafficking to memory processes in identified neuronal networks, by showing that fear-memory induced reduction in AMPA/NMDA ratio at thalamic-ITC synapses is associated with a reduced postsynaptic AMPA receptor density.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Seewald
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Sabine Schönherr
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Heide Hörtnagl
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Ingrid Ehrlich
- Center for Integrative Neuroscience, Hertie Institute for Clinical Brain Research, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany.,Department of Neurobiology, Institute of Biomaterials and Biomolecular Systems, University of Stuttgart, Stuttgart, Germany
| | | | - Francesco Ferraguti
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
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13
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Bhandari P, Vandael D, Fernández-Fernández D, Fritzius T, Kleindienst D, Önal C, Montanaro J, Gassmann M, Jonas P, Kulik A, Bettler B, Shigemoto R, Koppensteiner P. GABA B receptor auxiliary subunits modulate Cav2.3-mediated release from medial habenula terminals. eLife 2021; 10:68274. [PMID: 33913808 PMCID: PMC8121548 DOI: 10.7554/elife.68274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2021] [Accepted: 04/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The synaptic connection from medial habenula (MHb) to interpeduncular nucleus (IPN) is critical for emotion-related behaviors and uniquely expresses R-type Ca2+ channels (Cav2.3) and auxiliary GABAB receptor (GBR) subunits, the K+-channel tetramerization domain-containing proteins (KCTDs). Activation of GBRs facilitates or inhibits transmitter release from MHb terminals depending on the IPN subnucleus, but the role of KCTDs is unknown. We therefore examined the localization and function of Cav2.3, GBRs, and KCTDs in this pathway in mice. We show in heterologous cells that KCTD8 and KCTD12b directly bind to Cav2.3 and that KCTD8 potentiates Cav2.3 currents in the absence of GBRs. In the rostral IPN, KCTD8, KCTD12b, and Cav2.3 co-localize at the presynaptic active zone. Genetic deletion indicated a bidirectional modulation of Cav2.3-mediated release by these KCTDs with a compensatory increase of KCTD8 in the active zone in KCTD12b-deficient mice. The interaction of Cav2.3 with KCTDs therefore scales synaptic strength independent of GBR activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pradeep Bhandari
- Institute of Science and Technology Austria (IST Austria), Klosterneuburg, Austria
| | - David Vandael
- Institute of Science and Technology Austria (IST Austria), Klosterneuburg, Austria
| | | | | | - David Kleindienst
- Institute of Science and Technology Austria (IST Austria), Klosterneuburg, Austria
| | - Cihan Önal
- Institute of Science and Technology Austria (IST Austria), Klosterneuburg, Austria
| | - Jacqueline Montanaro
- Institute of Science and Technology Austria (IST Austria), Klosterneuburg, Austria
| | - Martin Gassmann
- Department of Biomedicine, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Peter Jonas
- Institute of Science and Technology Austria (IST Austria), Klosterneuburg, Austria
| | - Akos Kulik
- Institute of Physiology II, Faculty of Medicine, Freiburg, Germany.,BIOSS Centre for Biological Signalling Studies, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Bernhard Bettler
- Department of Biomedicine, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Ryuichi Shigemoto
- Institute of Science and Technology Austria (IST Austria), Klosterneuburg, Austria
| | - Peter Koppensteiner
- Institute of Science and Technology Austria (IST Austria), Klosterneuburg, Austria
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14
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Young SM, Veeraraghavan P. Presynaptic voltage-gated calcium channels in the auditory brainstem. Mol Cell Neurosci 2021; 112:103609. [PMID: 33662542 DOI: 10.1016/j.mcn.2021.103609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2020] [Revised: 02/06/2021] [Accepted: 02/17/2021] [Indexed: 10/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Sound information encoding within the initial synapses in the auditory brainstem requires reliable and precise synaptic transmission in response to rapid and large fluctuations in action potential (AP) firing rates. The magnitude and location of Ca2+ entry through voltage-gated Ca2+ channels (CaV) in the presynaptic terminal are key determinants in triggering AP-mediated release. In the mammalian central nervous system (CNS), the CaV2.1 subtype is the critical subtype for CNS function, since it is the most efficient CaV2 subtype in triggering AP-mediated synaptic vesicle (SV) release. Auditory brainstem synapses utilize CaV2.1 to sustain fast and repetitive SV release to encode sound information. Therefore, understanding the presynaptic mechanisms that control CaV2.1 localization, organization and biophysical properties are integral to understanding auditory processing. Here, we review our current knowledge about the control of presynaptic CaV2 abundance and organization in the auditory brainstem and impact on the regulation of auditory processing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel M Young
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA; Department of Otolaryngology, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA; Iowa Neuroscience Institute, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA.
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15
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Ke CL, Liao YT, Lin CH. MSS2 maintains mitochondrial function and is required for chitosan resistance, invasive growth, biofilm formation and virulence in Candida albicans. Virulence 2021; 12:281-297. [PMID: 33427576 PMCID: PMC7808435 DOI: 10.1080/21505594.2020.1870082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Candida albicans is the most prevalent fungal pathogen in humans, particularly in immunocompromised patients. In this study, by screening a C. albicans mutant library, we first identified that the MSS2 gene, an ortholog of Saccharomyces cerevisiae MSS2 required for mitochondrial respiration, mediates chitosan resistance. Upon treatment with 0.2% chitosan, the growth of mss2Δ strains was strikingly impaired, and MSS2 expression was significantly repressed by chitosan. Furthermore, mss2Δ strains exhibited slow growth on medium supplemented with glycerol as the sole carbon source. Similar to the chitosan-treated wild-type strain, the mss2Δ strain exhibited a significantly impaired ATP production ability. These data suggest that an antifungal mechanism of chitosan against C. albicans acts by inhibiting MSS2 gene expression, leading to repression of mitochondrial function. Normal respiratory function is suggested to be required for fungal virulence. Interestingly, the mss2Δ mutant strains exhibited significantly impaired invasive ability in vitro and ex vivo but retained normal hyphal development ability in liquid medium. Furthermore, the MSS2 deletion strains could not form robust biofilms and exhibited significantly reduced virulence. Collectively, these results demonstrated that the antifungal effect of chitosan against C. albicans is mediated via inhibition of mitochondrial biogenesis. These data may provide another strategy for antifungal drug development via inhibition of fungal mitochondria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cai-Ling Ke
- Department of Biochemical Science and Technology, College of Life Science, National Taiwan University , Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Ting Liao
- Department of Biochemical Science and Technology, College of Life Science, National Taiwan University , Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ching-Hsuan Lin
- Department of Biochemical Science and Technology, College of Life Science, National Taiwan University , Taipei, Taiwan
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16
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Seemann E, Kessels MM, Qualmann B. Freeze-Fracture Replica Immunolabeling of Cryopreserved Membrane Compartments, Cultured Cells and Tissues. Methods Mol Biol 2020; 2169:11-25. [PMID: 32548815 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-0732-9_2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Membrane topology information and views of membrane-embedded protein complexes promote our understanding of membrane organization and cell biological function involving membrane compartments. Freeze-fracturing of biological membranes offers both stunning views onto integral membrane proteins and perpendicular views over wide areas of the membrane at electron microscopical resolution. This information is directly assessable for 3D analyses and quantitative analyses of the distribution of components within the membrane if it were possible to specifically detect the components of interest in the membranes. Freeze-fracture replica immunolabeling (FRIL) achieves just that. In addition, FRIL preserves antigens in their genuine cellular context free of artifacts of chemical fixation, as FRIL uses chemically unfixed cellular samples that are rapidly cryofixed. In principle, the method is not limited to integral proteins spanning the membrane. Theoretically, all membrane components should be addressable as long as they are antigenic, embedded into at least one membrane leaflet, and accessible for immunolabeling from either the intracellular or the extracellular side. Consistently, integral proteins spanning both leaflets and only partially inserted membrane proteins have been successfully identified and studied for their molecular organization and distribution in the membrane and/or in relationship to specialized membrane domains. Here we describe the freeze-fracturing of both cultured cells and tissues and the sample preparations that allowed for a successful immunogold-labeling of caveolin1 and caveolin3 or even for double-immunolabelings of caveolins with members of the syndapin family of membrane-associating and -shaping BAR domain proteins as well as with cavin 1. For this purpose samples are cryopreserved, fractured, and replicated. We also describe how the obtained stabilized membrane fractures are then cleaned to remove all loosely attached material and immunogold labeled to finally be viewed by transmission electron microscopy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Seemann
- Institute for Biochemistry I, Jena University Hospital - Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Jena, Germany
| | - Michael M Kessels
- Institute for Biochemistry I, Jena University Hospital - Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Jena, Germany.
| | - Britta Qualmann
- Institute for Biochemistry I, Jena University Hospital - Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Jena, Germany.
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17
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Gap Junction Intercellular Communication in the Carcinogenesis Hallmarks: Is This a Phenomenon or Epiphenomenon? Cells 2019; 8:cells8080896. [PMID: 31416286 PMCID: PMC6721698 DOI: 10.3390/cells8080896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2019] [Revised: 08/03/2019] [Accepted: 08/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
If occupational tumors are excluded, cancer causes are largely unknown. Therefore, it appeared useful to work out a theory explaining the complexity of this disease. More than fifty years ago the first demonstration that cells communicate with each other by exchanging ions or small molecules through the participation of connexins (Cxs) forming Gap Junctions (GJs) occurred. Then the involvement of GJ Intercellular Communication (GJIC) in numerous physiological cellular functions, especially in proliferation control, was proven and accounts for the growing attention elicited in the field of carcinogenesis. The aim of the present paper is to verify and discuss the role of Cxs, GJs, and GJIC in cancer hallmarks, pointing on the different involved mechanisms in the context of the multi-step theory of carcinogenesis. Functional GJIC acts both as a tumor suppressor and as a tumor enhancer in the metastatic stage. On the contrary, lost or non-functional GJs allow the uncontrolled proliferation of stem/progenitor initiated cells. Thus, GJIC plays a key role in many biological phenomena or epiphenomena related to cancer. Depending on this complexity, GJIC can be considered a tumor suppressor in controlling cell proliferation or a cancer ally, with possible preventive or therapeutic implications in both cases.
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18
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Mammano F. Inner Ear Connexin Channels: Roles in Development and Maintenance of Cochlear Function. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Med 2019; 9:a033233. [PMID: 30181354 PMCID: PMC6601451 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a033233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Connexin 26 and connexin 30 are the prevailing isoforms in the epithelial and connective tissue gap junction systems of the developing and mature cochlea. The most frequently encountered variants of the genes that encode these connexins, which are transcriptionally coregulated, determine complete loss of protein function and are the predominant cause of prelingual hereditary deafness. Reducing connexin 26 expression by Cre/loxP recombination in the inner ear of adult mice results in a decreased endocochlear potential, increased hearing thresholds, and loss of >90% of outer hair cells, indicating that this connexin is essential for maintenance of cochlear function. In the developing cochlea, connexins are necessary for intercellular calcium signaling activity. Ribbon synapses and basolateral membrane currents fail to mature in inner hair cells of mice that are born with reduced connexin expression, even though hair cells do not express any connexin. In contrast, pannexin 1, an alternative mediator of intercellular signaling, is dispensable for hearing acquisition and auditory function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabio Mammano
- University of Padova, Department of Physics and Astronomy "G. Galilei," Padova 35129, Italy
- CNR Institute of Cell Biology and Neurobiology, Monterotondo 00015, Italy
- Shanghai Institute for Advanced Immunochemical Studies, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China
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19
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Orsó E, Robenek H, Boettcher A, Wolf Z, Liebisch G, Kramer W, Schmitz G. Nonglucuronidated Ezetimibe Disrupts CD13- and CD64-Coassembly in Membrane Microdomains and Decreases Cellular Cholesterol Content in Human Monocytes/Macrophages. Cytometry A 2019; 95:869-884. [PMID: 30994973 DOI: 10.1002/cyto.a.23772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2019] [Revised: 04/01/2019] [Accepted: 04/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Ezetimibe (EZE) and glucuronidated EZE (EZE-Glu) differentially target Niemann-Pick C1-like 1 (NPC1L1) and CD13 (aminopeptidase-N) to inhibit intestinal cholesterol absorption and cholesterol processing in other cells, although the precise molecular mechanisms are not fully elucidated. Cellular effects of EZE, EZE-Glu, and the low-absorbable EZE-analogue S6130 were investigated on human monocyte-derived macrophages upon loading with atherogenic lipoproteins. EZE and S6130, but not EZE-Glu disturbed the colocalization of CD13 and its coreceptor CD64 (Fcγ receptor I) in membrane microdomains, and decreased the presence of both receptors in detergent-resistant membrane fractions. Biotinylated cholesterol absorption inhibitor C-5 (i.e., derivative of EZE) was rapidly internalized to perinuclear tubular structures of cells, resembling endoplasmic reticulum (ER), but CD13 was detected on extracellular sites of the plasma membrane and endolysosomal vesicles. Administration of EZE, but not of EZE-Glu or S6130, was associated with decreased cellular cholesteryl ester content, indicating the sterol-O acyltransferase 1 (SOAT1)-inhibition by EZE. Furthermore, EZE decreased the expression of molecules involved in cholesterol uptake and synthesis, in parallel with increased apolipoprotein A-I-mediated cholesterol efflux and upregulation of efflux-effectors. However, NPC1L1 the other claimed molecular target of EZE, was not detected in macrophages, thereby excluding this protein as target for EZE in macrophages. Thus, EZE is very likely a CD13-linked microdomain-disruptor and SOAT1-inhibitor in macrophages leading to in vitro anti-atherosclerotic effects through a decrease of net cellular cholesterol content. © 2019 International Society for Advancement of Cytometry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evelyn Orsó
- Institute for Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, University Hospital of Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Horst Robenek
- Leibniz Institute for Arteriosclerosis Research, University of Muenster, 48149 Muenster, Germany
| | - Alfred Boettcher
- Institute for Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, University Hospital of Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Zsuzsanna Wolf
- Institute for Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, University Hospital of Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Gerhard Liebisch
- Institute for Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, University Hospital of Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Werner Kramer
- Biomedical and Scientific Consulting, 55130 Mainz, Germany
| | - Gerd Schmitz
- Institute for Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, University Hospital of Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
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20
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Nagy JI, Pereda AE, Rash JE. On the occurrence and enigmatic functions of mixed (chemical plus electrical) synapses in the mammalian CNS. Neurosci Lett 2019; 695:53-64. [PMID: 28911821 PMCID: PMC5845811 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2017.09.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2017] [Revised: 06/28/2017] [Accepted: 09/10/2017] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Electrical synapses with diverse configurations and functions occur at a variety of interneuronal appositions, thereby significantly expanding the physiological complexity of neuronal circuitry over that provided solely by chemical synapses. Gap junctions between apposed dendritic and somatic plasma membranes form "purely electrical" synapses that allow for electrical communication between coupled neurons. In addition, gap junctions at axon terminals synapsing on dendrites and somata allow for "mixed" (dual chemical+electrical) synaptic transmission. "Dual transmission" was first documented in the autonomic nervous system of birds, followed by its detection in the central nervous systems of fish, amphibia, and reptiles. Subsequently, mixed synapses have been detected in several locations in the mammalian CNS, where their properties and functional roles remain undetermined. Here, we review available evidence for the presence, complex structural composition, and emerging functional properties of mixed synapses in the mammalian CNS.
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Affiliation(s)
- James I Nagy
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Faculty of Medicine, 745 Bannatyne Ave, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba R3E 0J9, Canada.
| | - Alberto E Pereda
- Dominick P. Purpura Department of Neuroscience, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, United States
| | - John E Rash
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, and Program in Molecular, Cellular and Integrative Neurosciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, United States
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21
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Beckmann A, Hainz N, Tschernig T, Meier C. Facets of Communication: Gap Junction Ultrastructure and Function in Cancer Stem Cells and Tumor Cells. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:cancers11030288. [PMID: 30823688 PMCID: PMC6468480 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11030288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2019] [Revised: 02/22/2019] [Accepted: 02/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Gap junction proteins are expressed in cancer stem cells and non-stem cancer cells of many tumors. As the morphology and assembly of gap junction channels are crucial for their function in intercellular communication, one focus of our review is to outline the data on gap junction plaque morphology available for cancer cells. Electron microscopic studies and freeze-fracture analyses on gap junction ultrastructure in cancer are summarized. As the presence of gap junctions is relevant in solid tumors, we exemplarily outline their role in glioblastomas and in breast cancer. These were also shown to contain cancer stem cells, which are an essential cause of tumor onset and of tumor transmission into metastases. For these processes, gap junctional communication was shown to be important and thus we summarize, how the expression of gap junction proteins and the resulting communication between cancer stem cells and their surrounding cells contributes to the dissemination of cancer stem cells via blood or lymphatic vessels. Based on their importance for tumors and metastases, future cancer-specific therapies are expected to address gap junction proteins. In turn, gap junctions also seem to contribute to the unattainability of cancer stem cells by certain treatments and might thus contribute to therapeutic resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anja Beckmann
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Saarland University, 66421 Homburg, Germany.
| | - Nadine Hainz
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Saarland University, 66421 Homburg, Germany.
| | - Thomas Tschernig
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Saarland University, 66421 Homburg, Germany.
| | - Carola Meier
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Saarland University, 66421 Homburg, Germany.
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22
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23
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Beckmann A, Grißmer A, Wolf S, Recktenwald J, Meier C. Oxygen-Glucose Deprivation in Mouse Astrocytes is Associated with Ultrastructural Changes in Connexin 43 Gap Junctions. Neuroscience 2018; 397:67-79. [PMID: 30513376 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2018.11.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2018] [Revised: 11/26/2018] [Accepted: 11/28/2018] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
In the intact brain, astrocytes play an important role in a number of physiological functions like spatial buffering of potassium, maintenance of calcium homeostasis, neurotransmitter release, regulation of the cerebral blood flow, and many more. As pathophysiological events upon hypoxic-ischemic brain injury include excitotoxicity by glutamate release as well as oxidative stress, astrocytes and their gap junction-based syncytium are of major relevance for regulating the extent of resulting brain damage. The gap junction protein Connexin (Cx) 43 contributes mainly to the astrocytic intercellular communication. As little is known about the ultrastructural assemblage of Cx43 and its changes in response to hypoxic events, we chose temporary oxygen and glucose deprivation with subsequent reoxygenation (OGD-R) as a metabolic inhibition model of hypoxia in primary murine astrocytes. Gap junction morphology and assembly/disintegration were analyzed at the ultrastructural level using freeze-fracture replica immunolabeling. The exposure of cultured astrocytes to short-term OGD-R resulted in the activation of ERK1/2 (p44/p42), downregulation of Cx43 protein expression, and the rearrangement of Cx43 particles within the cell membrane and within gap junctions. These changes in gap junction morphology were associated with phosphorylation of Cx43 at Serine 368. Analysis of the nearest-neighbor distance within gap junction plaques revealed the loosening of Cx43 particle clusters. Together with the observation of additional connexons being present in the vicinity of gap junction plaques after OGD-R treatment, our study indicates that changes in gap junction assembly are associated with the early phase of hypoxic cell damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anja Beckmann
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Saarland University, 66421 Homburg, Saar, Germany
| | - Alexander Grißmer
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Saarland University, 66421 Homburg, Saar, Germany
| | - Sandra Wolf
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Saarland University, 66421 Homburg, Saar, Germany
| | - Johanna Recktenwald
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Saarland University, 66421 Homburg, Saar, Germany
| | - Carola Meier
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Saarland University, 66421 Homburg, Saar, Germany.
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24
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Luján R, Aguado C, Ciruela F, Arus XM, Martín-Belmonte A, Alfaro-Ruiz R, Martínez-Gómez J, de la Ossa L, Watanabe M, Adelman JP, Shigemoto R, Fukazawa Y. SK2 Channels Associate With mGlu 1α Receptors and Ca V2.1 Channels in Purkinje Cells. Front Cell Neurosci 2018; 12:311. [PMID: 30283304 PMCID: PMC6156379 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2018.00311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2018] [Accepted: 08/28/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The small-conductance, Ca2+-activated K+ (SK) channel subtype SK2 regulates the spike rate and firing frequency, as well as Ca2+ transients in Purkinje cells (PCs). To understand the molecular basis by which SK2 channels mediate these functions, we analyzed the exact location and densities of SK2 channels along the neuronal surface of the mouse cerebellar PCs using SDS-digested freeze-fracture replica labeling (SDS-FRL) of high sensitivity combined with quantitative analyses. Immunogold particles for SK2 were observed on post- and pre-synaptic compartments showing both scattered and clustered distribution patterns. We found an axo-somato-dendritic gradient of the SK2 particle density increasing 12-fold from soma to dendritic spines. Using two different immunogold approaches, we also found that SK2 immunoparticles were frequently adjacent to, but never overlap with, the postsynaptic density of excitatory synapses in PC spines. Co-immunoprecipitation analysis demonstrated that SK2 channels form macromolecular complexes with two types of proteins that mobilize Ca2+: CaV2.1 channels and mGlu1α receptors in the cerebellum. Freeze-fracture replica double-labeling showed significant co-clustering of particles for SK2 with those for CaV2.1 channels and mGlu1α receptors. SK2 channels were also detected at presynaptic sites, mostly at the presynaptic active zone (AZ), where they are close to CaV2.1 channels, though they are not significantly co-clustered. These data demonstrate that SK2 channels located in different neuronal compartments can associate with distinct proteins mobilizing Ca2+, and suggest that the ultrastructural association of SK2 with CaV2.1 and mGlu1α provides the mechanism that ensures voltage (excitability) regulation by distinct intracellular Ca2+ transients in PCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafael Luján
- Synaptic Structure Laboratory, Instituto de Investigación en Discapacidades Neurológicas (IDINE), Departamento de Ciencias Médicas, Facultad de Medicina, Campus Biosanitario, Universidad Castilla-La Mancha, Albacete, Spain
| | - Carolina Aguado
- Synaptic Structure Laboratory, Instituto de Investigación en Discapacidades Neurológicas (IDINE), Departamento de Ciencias Médicas, Facultad de Medicina, Campus Biosanitario, Universidad Castilla-La Mancha, Albacete, Spain
| | - Francisco Ciruela
- Unitat de Farmacologia, Departament de Patologia i Terapèutica Experimental, Facultat de Medicina i Ciències de la Salut, IDIBELL, Universitat de Barcelona, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain.,Institut de Neurociències, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Ghent, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Xavier Morató Arus
- Unitat de Farmacologia, Departament de Patologia i Terapèutica Experimental, Facultat de Medicina i Ciències de la Salut, IDIBELL, Universitat de Barcelona, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Alejandro Martín-Belmonte
- Synaptic Structure Laboratory, Instituto de Investigación en Discapacidades Neurológicas (IDINE), Departamento de Ciencias Médicas, Facultad de Medicina, Campus Biosanitario, Universidad Castilla-La Mancha, Albacete, Spain
| | - Rocío Alfaro-Ruiz
- Synaptic Structure Laboratory, Instituto de Investigación en Discapacidades Neurológicas (IDINE), Departamento de Ciencias Médicas, Facultad de Medicina, Campus Biosanitario, Universidad Castilla-La Mancha, Albacete, Spain
| | - Jesús Martínez-Gómez
- Departamento de Sistemas Informáticos, Escuela Superior de Ingeniería Informática, Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, Albacete, Spain
| | - Luis de la Ossa
- Departamento de Sistemas Informáticos, Escuela Superior de Ingeniería Informática, Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, Albacete, Spain
| | - Masahiko Watanabe
- Department of Anatomy, Graduate School of Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - John P Adelman
- Vollum Institute, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, United States
| | - Ryuichi Shigemoto
- Institute of Science and Technology (IST Austria), Klosterneuburg, Austria
| | - Yugo Fukazawa
- Division of Brain Structure and Function, Research Center for Child Mental Development, Life Science Advancement Program, Faculty of Medical Science, University of Fukui, Fukui, Japan
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25
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Abstract
Immunogold labeling of freeze-fracture replicas has recently been used for high-resolution visualization of protein localization in electron microscopy. This method has higher labeling efficiency than conventional immunogold methods for membrane molecules allowing precise quantitative measurements. However, one of the limitations of freeze-fracture replica immunolabeling is difficulty in keeping structural orientation and identifying labeled profiles in complex tissues like brain. The difficulty is partly due to fragmentation of freeze-fracture replica preparations during labeling procedures and limited morphological clues on the replica surface. To overcome these issues, we introduce here a grid-glued replica method combined with SEM observation. This method allows histological staining before dissolving the tissue and easy handling of replicas during immunogold labeling, and keeps the whole replica surface intact without fragmentation. The procedure described here is also useful for matched double-replica analysis allowing further identification of labeled profiles in corresponding P-face and E-face.
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26
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Nagy JI, Pereda AE, Rash JE. Electrical synapses in mammalian CNS: Past eras, present focus and future directions. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA. BIOMEMBRANES 2018; 1860:102-123. [PMID: 28577972 PMCID: PMC5705454 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamem.2017.05.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2017] [Revised: 05/26/2017] [Accepted: 05/27/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Gap junctions provide the basis for electrical synapses between neurons. Early studies in well-defined circuits in lower vertebrates laid the foundation for understanding various properties conferred by electrical synaptic transmission. Knowledge surrounding electrical synapses in mammalian systems unfolded first with evidence indicating the presence of gap junctions between neurons in various brain regions, but with little appreciation of their functional roles. Beginning at about the turn of this century, new approaches were applied to scrutinize electrical synapses, revealing the prevalence of neuronal gap junctions, the connexin protein composition of many of those junctions, and the myriad diverse neural systems in which they occur in the mammalian CNS. Subsequent progress indicated that electrical synapses constitute key elements in synaptic circuitry, govern the collective activity of ensembles of electrically coupled neurons, and in part orchestrate the synchronized neuronal network activity and rhythmic oscillations that underlie fundamental integrative processes. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Gap Junction Proteins edited by Jean Claude Herve.
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Affiliation(s)
- James I Nagy
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada.
| | - Alberto E Pereda
- Dominick P. Purpura Department of Neuroscience, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, 10461, United States
| | - John E Rash
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, and Program in Molecular, Cellular and Integrative Neurosciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, United States
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27
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Differential association of GABA B receptors with their effector ion channels in Purkinje cells. Brain Struct Funct 2017; 223:1565-1587. [PMID: 29177691 PMCID: PMC5869904 DOI: 10.1007/s00429-017-1568-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2017] [Accepted: 11/10/2017] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Metabotropic GABAB receptors mediate slow inhibitory effects presynaptically and postsynaptically through the modulation of different effector signalling pathways. Here, we analysed the distribution of GABAB receptors using highly sensitive SDS-digested freeze-fracture replica labelling in mouse cerebellar Purkinje cells. Immunoreactivity for GABAB1 was observed on presynaptic and, more abundantly, on postsynaptic compartments, showing both scattered and clustered distribution patterns. Quantitative analysis of immunoparticles revealed a somato-dendritic gradient, with the density of immunoparticles increasing 26-fold from somata to dendritic spines. To understand the spatial relationship of GABAB receptors with two key effector ion channels, the G protein-gated inwardly rectifying K+ (GIRK/Kir3) channel and the voltage-dependent Ca2+ channel, biochemical and immunohistochemical approaches were performed. Co-immunoprecipitation analysis demonstrated that GABAB receptors co-assembled with GIRK and CaV2.1 channels in the cerebellum. Using double-labelling immunoelectron microscopic techniques, co-clustering between GABAB1 and GIRK2 was detected in dendritic spines, whereas they were mainly segregated in the dendritic shafts. In contrast, co-clustering of GABAB1 and CaV2.1 was detected in dendritic shafts but not spines. Presynaptically, although no significant co-clustering of GABAB1 and GIRK2 or CaV2.1 channels was detected, inter-cluster distance for GABAB1 and GIRK2 was significantly smaller in the active zone than in the dendritic shafts, and that for GABAB1 and CaV2.1 was significantly smaller in the active zone than in the dendritic shafts and spines. Thus, GABAB receptors are associated with GIRK and CaV2.1 channels in different subcellular compartments. These data provide a better framework for understanding the different roles played by GABAB receptors and their effector ion channels in the cerebellar network.
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28
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Freeze fracture: new avenues for the ultrastructural analysis of cells in vitro. Histochem Cell Biol 2017; 149:3-13. [PMID: 29134300 DOI: 10.1007/s00418-017-1617-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/03/2017] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
The ultrastructural analysis of biological membranes by freeze fracture has a 60-year tradition. In this review, we summarize the benefits of the freeze-fracture technique and review special structures analyzed by freeze fracture and by combined freeze-fracture replica immunogold labeling (FRIL) of cell cultures. In principle, every cellular membrane whether of cell suspensions, mono- or bilayers of cell cultures can be analyzed in freeze fracture. The combination of freeze fracture and immunogold labeling of the replica allows the ultrastructural identification of protein assemblies in combination with the molecular identification of their constituent proteins using specific antibodies. The analysis of fractured and labeled intramembrane particles enables determination of the arrangement and organization of proteins within the membrane due to the high resolution of the transmission electron microscope. Because of cell-specific ultrastructural features such as square arrays, identification of cell types can be performed in parallel. This review is aimed at presenting the possibilities of freeze fracture and FRIL in the high-resolution ultrastructural analysis of membrane proteins and their assembly in naïve, transfected or otherwise treated cultured cells. At the interface of molecular approaches and morphology, the application of FRIL in genetically modified cells provides a novel and intriguing aspect for their analysis.
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29
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Campbell M, Cassidy PS, O'Callaghan J, Crosbie DE, Humphries P. Manipulating ocular endothelial tight junctions: Applications in treatment of retinal disease pathology and ocular hypertension. Prog Retin Eye Res 2017; 62:120-133. [PMID: 28951125 DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2017.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2017] [Revised: 09/01/2017] [Accepted: 09/20/2017] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Protein levels of endothelial tight-junctions of the inner retinal microvasculature, together with those of Schlemm's canal, can be readily manipulated by RNA interference (RNAi), resulting in the paracellular clefts between such cells to be reversibly modulated. This facilitates access to the retina of systemically-deliverable low molecular weight, potentially therapeutic compounds, while also allowing potentially toxic material, for example, soluble Amyloid-β1-40, to be removed from the retina into the peripheral circulation. The technique has also been shown to be highly effective in alleviation of pathological cerebral oedema and we speculate that it may therefore have similar utility in the oedematous retina. Additionally, by manipulating endothelial tight-junctions of Schlemm's canal, inflow of aqueous humour from the trabecular meshwork into the Canal can be radically enhanced, suggesting a novel avenue for control of intraocular pressure. Here, we review the technology underlying this approach together with specific examples of clinical targets that are, or could be, amenable to this novel form of genetic intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Campbell
- Smurfit Institute of Genetics, Lincoln Place Gate, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin 2, Ireland.
| | - Paul S Cassidy
- Smurfit Institute of Genetics, Lincoln Place Gate, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | - Jeffrey O'Callaghan
- Smurfit Institute of Genetics, Lincoln Place Gate, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | - Darragh E Crosbie
- Smurfit Institute of Genetics, Lincoln Place Gate, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | - Pete Humphries
- Smurfit Institute of Genetics, Lincoln Place Gate, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin 2, Ireland.
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30
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Functional characterization of an aquaporin from a microsporidium, Nosema bombycis. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0181703. [PMID: 28749993 PMCID: PMC5531513 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0181703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2017] [Accepted: 07/04/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Microsporidia are a diverse group of eukaryotic organisms, capable of causing parasitic infections in both vertebrates and invertebrates. During the germination process, there is an increase in the osmotic pressure of microsporidian spores. As part of this study, we cloned a homologous aquaporin gene in Nosema bombycis, and named it Nosema bombycis aquaporin (NbAQP). Sequence analysis revealed that the NbAQP contains an open reading frame with a length of 750 bp and encodes a polypeptide of 249 amino acids. Amino acid sequence homology was greater than 50% that of five aquaporins from other microsporidian species. Indirect immunofluorescence (IFA) and immunogold electron microscopy showed NbAQP to be located predominantly in the spore wall of N. bombycis spores. The results of qRT-PCR analysis revealed that NbAQP expression remained high 0 h after inoculation and decreased sharply to 24 h, increased gradually from 2 days and peaked at 6 days. After expression of NbAQP in Xenopus laevis oocytes, it was observed that NbAQP can promote rapid penetration of water into oocytes. The associated permeation rate was 2–3 times that of the water-injected and uninjected oocytes. Antibody blocking experiments showed that the inhibition rate of spore germination was approximately 28% after antibody blocking. The difference in germination rate between the control group and the NbAQP group was significant (P < 0.05). This study shows for the first time that N. bombycis contains functional water channel proteins and provides a platform suitable for further research into the mechanisms underlying the regulation of NbAQP protein expression. Further study of NbAQP and their inhibitors may have significance for prevention of microsporidiosis.
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31
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Numbers of presynaptic Ca 2+ channel clusters match those of functionally defined vesicular docking sites in single central synapses. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2017; 114:E5246-E5255. [PMID: 28607047 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1704470114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Many central synapses contain a single presynaptic active zone and a single postsynaptic density. Vesicular release statistics at such "simple synapses" indicate that they contain a small complement of docking sites where vesicles repetitively dock and fuse. In this work, we investigate functional and morphological aspects of docking sites at simple synapses made between cerebellar parallel fibers and molecular layer interneurons. Using immunogold labeling of SDS-treated freeze-fracture replicas, we find that Cav2.1 channels form several clusters per active zone with about nine channels per cluster. The mean value and range of intersynaptic variation are similar for Cav2.1 cluster numbers and for functional estimates of docking-site numbers obtained from the maximum numbers of released vesicles per action potential. Both numbers grow in relation with synaptic size and decrease by a similar extent with age between 2 wk and 4 wk postnatal. Thus, the mean docking-site numbers were 3.15 at 2 wk (range: 1-10) and 2.03 at 4 wk (range: 1-4), whereas the mean numbers of Cav2.1 clusters were 2.84 at 2 wk (range: 1-8) and 2.37 at 4 wk (range: 1-5). These changes were accompanied by decreases of miniature current amplitude (from 93 pA to 56 pA), active-zone surface area (from 0.0427 μm2 to 0.0234 μm2), and initial success rate (from 0.609 to 0.353), indicating a tightening of synaptic transmission with development. Altogether, these results suggest a close correspondence between the number of functionally defined vesicular docking sites and that of clusters of voltage-gated calcium channels.
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32
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Wang SG, Tsao DD, Vanderpool KG, Yasumura T, Rash JE, Nagy JI. Connexin36 localization to pinealocytes in the pineal gland of mouse and rat. Eur J Neurosci 2017; 45:1594-1605. [PMID: 28474748 PMCID: PMC5507615 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.13602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2017] [Revised: 04/27/2017] [Accepted: 04/28/2017] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Several cell types in the pineal gland are known to establish intercellular gap junctions, but the connexin constituents of those junctions have not been fully characterized. Specifically, the expression of connexin36 (Cx36) protein and mRNA has been examined in the pineal, but the identity of cells that produce Cx36 and that form Cx36-containing gap junctions has not been determined. We used immunofluorescence and freeze fracture replica immunogold labelling (FRIL) of Cx36 to investigate the cellular and subcellular localization of Cx36 in the pineal gland of adult mouse and rat. Immunofluorescence labelling of Cx36 was visualized exclusively as puncta or short immunopositive strands that were distributed throughout the pineal, and which were absent in pineal sections from Cx36 null mice. By double immunofluorescence labelling, Cx36 was localized to tryptophan hydroxylase-positive and 5-hydroxytryptamine-positive pinealocyte cell bodies and their large initial processes, including at intersections of those processes and at sites displaying a confluence of processes. Labelling for the cell junction marker zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1) either overlapped or was closely associated with labelling for Cx36. Pinealocytes thus form Cx36-containing gap junctions that also incorporate the scaffolding protein ZO-1. FRIL revealed labelling of Cx36 at ultrastructurally defined gap junctions between pinealocytes, most of which was at gap junctions having reticular, ribbon or string configurations. The results suggest that the endocrine functions of pinealocytes and their secretion of melatonin is supported by their intercellular communication via Cx36-containing gap junctions, which may now be tested by the use of Cx36 null mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- S G Wang
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Manitoba, 745 Bannatyne Ave, Winnipeg, MB, R3E 0J9, Canada
| | - D D Tsao
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Manitoba, 745 Bannatyne Ave, Winnipeg, MB, R3E 0J9, Canada
| | - K G Vanderpool
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA
| | - T Yasumura
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA
| | - J E Rash
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA
| | - J I Nagy
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Manitoba, 745 Bannatyne Ave, Winnipeg, MB, R3E 0J9, Canada
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33
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Wang X, Wang N, Li L, Xiao R, Yuan L, Yang X, Li N. Evaluation of red and near infrared fluorescent silver nanoclusters as potential in vivo indicators of tight junction opening. RSC Adv 2017. [DOI: 10.1039/c7ra05561g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
A double fluorescence probe strategy based on silver nanoclusters for study of the TJ structure change.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyi Wang
- College of Sciences
- Shenyang Agricultural University
- Shenyang 110161
- China
| | - Na Wang
- Department of Pharmacognosy
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences
- Hebei Medical University
- Shijiazhuang 050017
- China
| | - Limei Li
- College of Sciences
- Shenyang Agricultural University
- Shenyang 110161
- China
| | - Ruyue Xiao
- State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs
- Department of Chemical Biology
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences
- Peking University
- Beijing 100083
| | - Lan Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs
- Department of Chemical Biology
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences
- Peking University
- Beijing 100083
| | - Xiaoda Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs
- Department of Chemical Biology
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences
- Peking University
- Beijing 100083
| | - Na Li
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences (BNLMS)
- The Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Chemistry and Molecular Engineering
- Ministry of Education
- College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering
- Peking University
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34
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Hipp K, Rau P, Schäfer B, Pfannstiel J, Jeske H. Translation, modification and cellular distribution of two AC4 variants of African cassava mosaic virus in yeast and their pathogenic potential in plants. Virology 2016; 498:136-148. [PMID: 27584591 DOI: 10.1016/j.virol.2016.07.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2016] [Revised: 07/05/2016] [Accepted: 07/07/2016] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Plant infecting geminiviruses encode a small (A)C4 protein within the open reading frame of the replication-initiator protein. In African cassava mosaic virus, two in-frame start codons may be used for the translation of a longer and a shorter AC4 variant. Both were fused to green fluorescent protein or glutathione-S-transferase genes and expressed in fission yeast. The longer variant accumulated in discrete spots in the cytoplasm, whereas the shorter variant localized to the plasma membrane. A similar expression pattern was found in plants. A myristoylation motif may promote a targeting of the shorter variant to the plasma membrane. Mass spectrometry analysis of the yeast-expressed shorter variant detected the corresponding myristoylation. The biological relevance of the second start codon was confirmed using mutated infectious clones. Whereas mutating the first start codon had no effect on the infectivity in Nicotiana benthamiana plants, the second start codon proved to be essential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharina Hipp
- University of Stuttgart, Institute of Biomaterials and biomolecular Systems, Department of Molecular Biology and Plant Virology, Pfaffenwaldring 57, 70550 Stuttgart, Germany.
| | - Peter Rau
- University of Stuttgart, Institute of Biomaterials and biomolecular Systems, Department of Molecular Biology and Plant Virology, Pfaffenwaldring 57, 70550 Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Benjamin Schäfer
- University of Stuttgart, Institute of Biomaterials and biomolecular Systems, Department of Molecular Biology and Plant Virology, Pfaffenwaldring 57, 70550 Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Jens Pfannstiel
- University of Hohenheim, Mass Spectrometry Core Facility, August-von-Hartmann-Straße 3, 70599 Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Holger Jeske
- University of Stuttgart, Institute of Biomaterials and biomolecular Systems, Department of Molecular Biology and Plant Virology, Pfaffenwaldring 57, 70550 Stuttgart, Germany
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35
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Wang X, Wang N, Yuan L, Li N, Wang J, Yang X. Exploring tight junction alteration using double fluorescent probe combination of lanthanide complex with gold nanoclusters. Sci Rep 2016; 6:32218. [PMID: 27574102 PMCID: PMC5004201 DOI: 10.1038/srep32218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2016] [Accepted: 08/03/2016] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Tight junctions play a key role in restricting or regulating passage of liquids, ions and large solutes through various biological barriers by the paracellular route. Changes in paracellular permeation indicate alteration of the tight junction. However, it is very difficult to obtain the structural change information by measuring paracellular flux based on transepithelial electrical resistance or using fluorescein-labeled dextrans. Here we show that the BSA and GSH stabilized gold nanoclusters exhibit marginal cytotoxicity and pass through the MDCK monolayer exclusively through the paracellular pathway. We propose a double fluorescence probe strategy, the combination of a proven paracellular indicator (europium complex) with fluorescent gold nanoclusters. We calculate changes of structural parameters in tight junctions based on determination of the diffusion coefficients of the probes. Two different types of tight junction openers are used to validate our strategy. Results show that EDTA disrupts tight junction structures and induces large and smooth paracellular pore paths with an average radius of 17 nm, but vanadyl complexes induce paths with the radius of 6 nm. The work suggests that the double fluorescence probe strategy is a useful and convenient approach for in vitro investigation of tight junction structural alternations caused by pharmacological or pathological events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyi Wang
- Department of Chemical Biology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China.,College of Sciences, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang 110161, China
| | - Na Wang
- Department of Chemical Biology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China.,Department of Pharmacognosy, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 050017, China
| | - Lan Yuan
- Department of Chemical Biology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Na Li
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences (BNLMS), The Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Junxia Wang
- Department of Molecular Biology, Hebei Key Lab of Laboratory Animal, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 050017, China
| | - Xiaoda Yang
- Department of Chemical Biology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
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36
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Kerti-Szigeti K, Nusser Z. Similar GABAA receptor subunit composition in somatic and axon initial segment synapses of hippocampal pyramidal cells. eLife 2016; 5. [PMID: 27537197 PMCID: PMC4990423 DOI: 10.7554/elife.18426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2016] [Accepted: 08/08/2016] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Hippocampal pyramidal cells (PCs) express many GABAAR subunit types and receive GABAergic inputs from distinct interneurons. Previous experiments revealed input-specific differences in α1 and α2 subunit densities in perisomatic synapses, suggesting distinct IPSC decay kinetics. However, IPSC decays evoked by axo-axonic, parvalbumin- or cholecystokinin-expressing basket cells were found to be similar. Using replica immunogold labeling, here we show that all CA1 PC somatic and AIS synapses contain the α1, α2, β1, β2, β3 and γ2 subunits. In CA3 PCs, 90% of the perisomatic synapses are immunopositive for the α1 subunit and all synapses are positive for the remaining five subunits. Somatic synapses form unimodal distributions based on their immunoreactivity for these subunits. The α2 subunit densities in somatic synapses facing Cav2.1 (i.e. parvalbumin) or Cav2.2 (cholecystokinin) positive presynaptic active zones are comparable. We conclude that perisomatic synapses made by three distinct interneuron types have similar GABAA receptor subunit content. DOI:http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.18426.001
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Affiliation(s)
- Katalin Kerti-Szigeti
- Laboratory of Cellular Neurophysiology, Institute of Experimental Medicine, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Zoltan Nusser
- Laboratory of Cellular Neurophysiology, Institute of Experimental Medicine, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Budapest, Hungary
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37
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Beckmann A, Schubert M, Hainz N, Haase A, Martin U, Tschernig T, Meier C. Ultrastructural demonstration of Cx43 gap junctions in induced pluripotent stem cells from human cord blood. Histochem Cell Biol 2016; 146:529-537. [PMID: 27456332 DOI: 10.1007/s00418-016-1469-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/15/2016] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Gap junction proteins are essential for direct intercellular communication but also influence cellular differentiation and migration. The expression of various connexin gap junction proteins has been demonstrated in embryonic stem cells, with Cx43 being the most intensely studied. As Cx43 is the most prominent gap junction protein in the heart, cardiomyocyte-differentiated stem cells have been studied intensely. To date, however, little is known about the expression and the subcellular distribution of Cx43 in undifferentiated stem cells or about the structural arrangement of channels. We, therefore, here investigate expression of Cx43 in undifferentiated human cord-blood-derived induced pluripotent stem cells (hCBiPS2). For this purpose, we carried out quantitative real-time PCR and immunohistochemistry. For analysis of Cx43 ultrastructure and protein assembly, we performed freeze-fracture replica immunogold labeling (FRIL). Cx43 expression was detected at mRNA and protein level in hCBIPS2 cells. For the first time, ultrastructural data are presented on gap junction morphology in induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells from cord blood: Our FRIL and electron microscopical analysis revealed the occurrence of gap junction plaques in undifferentiated iPS cells. In addition, these gap junctions were shown to contain the gap junction protein Cx43.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anja Beckmann
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Saarland University, Kirrberger Straße, Building 61, 66421, Homburg/Saar, Germany
| | - Madline Schubert
- Leibniz Research Laboratories for Biotechnology and Artificial Organs (LEBAO), Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Transplant and Vascular Surgery, Hannover Medical School, 30625, Hannover, Germany.,REBIRTH-Cluster of Excellence, Hannover Medical School, 30625, Hannover, Germany
| | - Nadine Hainz
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Saarland University, Kirrberger Straße, Building 61, 66421, Homburg/Saar, Germany
| | - Alexandra Haase
- Leibniz Research Laboratories for Biotechnology and Artificial Organs (LEBAO), Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Transplant and Vascular Surgery, Hannover Medical School, 30625, Hannover, Germany.,REBIRTH-Cluster of Excellence, Hannover Medical School, 30625, Hannover, Germany
| | - Ulrich Martin
- Leibniz Research Laboratories for Biotechnology and Artificial Organs (LEBAO), Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Transplant and Vascular Surgery, Hannover Medical School, 30625, Hannover, Germany.,REBIRTH-Cluster of Excellence, Hannover Medical School, 30625, Hannover, Germany
| | - Thomas Tschernig
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Saarland University, Kirrberger Straße, Building 61, 66421, Homburg/Saar, Germany
| | - Carola Meier
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Saarland University, Kirrberger Straße, Building 61, 66421, Homburg/Saar, Germany.
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38
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Ohno S, Saitoh Y, Ohno N, Terada N. Renaissance of morphological studies: the examination of functional structures in living animal organs using the in vivo cryotechnique. Anat Sci Int 2016; 92:55-78. [DOI: 10.1007/s12565-016-0355-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2016] [Accepted: 06/27/2016] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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39
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Gao Y, Lui WY, Lee WM, Cheng CY. Polarity protein Crumbs homolog-3 (CRB3) regulates ectoplasmic specialization dynamics through its action on F-actin organization in Sertoli cells. Sci Rep 2016; 6:28589. [PMID: 27358069 PMCID: PMC4928075 DOI: 10.1038/srep28589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2016] [Accepted: 06/07/2016] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Crumbs homolog 3 (or Crumbs3, CRB3) is a polarity protein expressed by Sertoli and germ cells at the basal compartment in the seminiferous epithelium. CRB3 also expressed at the blood-testis barrier (BTB), co-localized with F-actin, TJ proteins occludin/ZO-1 and basal ES (ectoplasmic specialization) proteins N-cadherin/β-catenin at stages IV-VII only. The binding partners of CRB3 in the testis were the branched actin polymerization protein Arp3, and the barbed end-capping and bundling protein Eps8, illustrating its possible role in actin organization. CRB3 knockdown (KD) by RNAi in Sertoli cells with an established tight junction (TJ)-permeability barrier perturbed the TJ-barrier via changes in the distribution of TJ- and basal ES-proteins at the cell-cell interface. These changes were the result of CRB3 KD-induced re-organization of actin microfilaments, in which actin microfilaments were truncated, and extensively branched, thereby destabilizing F-actin-based adhesion protein complexes at the BTB. Using Polyplus in vivo-jetPEI as a transfection medium with high efficiency for CRB3 KD in the testis, the CRB3 KD testes displayed defects in spermatid and phagosome transport, and also spermatid polarity due to a disruption of F-actin organization. In summary, CRB3 is an actin microfilament regulator, playing a pivotal role in organizing actin filament bundles at the ES.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Gao
- The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, 1230 York Ave, New York, 10065, New York, USA
| | - Wing-Yee Lui
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Will M Lee
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - C Yan Cheng
- The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive Research, Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, 1230 York Ave, New York, 10065, New York, USA
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40
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Zihni C, Mills C, Matter K, Balda MS. Tight junctions: from simple barriers to multifunctional molecular gates. Nat Rev Mol Cell Biol 2016; 17:564-80. [PMID: 27353478 DOI: 10.1038/nrm.2016.80] [Citation(s) in RCA: 852] [Impact Index Per Article: 106.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Epithelia and endothelia separate different tissue compartments and protect multicellular organisms from the outside world. This requires the formation of tight junctions, selective gates that control paracellular diffusion of ions and solutes. Tight junctions also form the border between the apical and basolateral plasma-membrane domains and are linked to the machinery that controls apicobasal polarization. Additionally, signalling networks that guide diverse cell behaviours and functions are connected to tight junctions, transmitting information to and from the cytoskeleton, nucleus and different cell adhesion complexes. Recent advances have broadened our understanding of the molecular architecture and cellular functions of tight junctions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ceniz Zihni
- Department of Cell Biology, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, Bath Street, London EC1V 9EL, UK
| | - Clare Mills
- Department of Cell Biology, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, Bath Street, London EC1V 9EL, UK
| | - Karl Matter
- Department of Cell Biology, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, Bath Street, London EC1V 9EL, UK
| | - Maria S Balda
- Department of Cell Biology, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, Bath Street, London EC1V 9EL, UK
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41
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Loukanov A, Emin S. Biotinylated vanadium and chromium sulfide nanoparticles as probes for colocalization of membrane proteins. Microsc Res Tech 2016; 79:799-805. [DOI: 10.1002/jemt.22701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2016] [Revised: 04/25/2016] [Accepted: 06/03/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Alexandre Loukanov
- Graduate School of Science and Engineering; Saitama University; Shimo-Ohkubo 255 Sakura Ku Saitama 338-8570 Japan
- Department of Engineering Geoecology, Laboratory of Engineering NanoBiotechnology; University of Mining and Geology “St. Ivan Rilski”; Bulgaria
| | - Saim Emin
- Materials Research Laboratory; University of Nova Gorica; SI-5000 Slovenia
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42
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Rash JE, Vanderpool KG, Yasumura T, Hickman J, Beatty JT, Nagy JI. KV1 channels identified in rodent myelinated axons, linked to Cx29 in innermost myelin: support for electrically active myelin in mammalian saltatory conduction. J Neurophysiol 2016; 115:1836-59. [PMID: 26763782 PMCID: PMC4869480 DOI: 10.1152/jn.01077.2015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2015] [Accepted: 01/04/2016] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Saltatory conduction in mammalian myelinated axons was thought to be well understood before recent discoveries revealed unexpected subcellular distributions and molecular identities of the K(+)-conductance pathways that provide for rapid axonal repolarization. In this study, we visualize, identify, localize, quantify, and ultrastructurally characterize axonal KV1.1/KV1.2 channels in sciatic nerves of rodents. With the use of light microscopic immunocytochemistry and freeze-fracture replica immunogold labeling electron microscopy, KV1.1/KV1.2 channels are localized to three anatomically and compositionally distinct domains in the internodal axolemmas of large myelinated axons, where they form densely packed "rosettes" of 9-nm intramembrane particles. These axolemmal KV1.1/KV1.2 rosettes are precisely aligned with and ultrastructurally coupled to connexin29 (Cx29) channels, also in matching rosettes, in the surrounding juxtaparanodal myelin collars and along the inner mesaxon. As >98% of transmembrane proteins large enough to represent ion channels in these specialized domains, ∼500,000 KV1.1/KV1.2 channels define the paired juxtaparanodal regions as exclusive membrane domains for the voltage-gated K(+)conductance that underlies rapid axonal repolarization in mammals. The 1:1 molecular linkage of KV1 channels to Cx29 channels in the apposed juxtaparanodal collars, plus their linkage to an additional 250,000-400,000 Cx29 channels along each inner mesaxon in every large-diameter myelinated axon examined, supports previously proposed K(+)conductance directly from juxtaparanodal axoplasm into juxtaparanodal myeloplasm in mammalian axons. With neither Cx29 protein nor myelin rosettes detectable in frog myelinated axons, these data showing axon-to-myelin linkage by abundant KV1/Cx29 channels in rodent axons support renewed consideration of an electrically active role for myelin in increasing both saltatory conduction velocity and maximum propagation frequency in mammalian myelinated axons.
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Affiliation(s)
- John E Rash
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado; Program in Molecular, Cellular and Integrative Neurosciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado; and
| | - Kimberly G Vanderpool
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado
| | - Thomas Yasumura
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado
| | - Jordan Hickman
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado
| | - Jonathan T Beatty
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado
| | - James I Nagy
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
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43
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High-Resolution Localization of Membrane Proteins by SDS-Digested Freeze-Fracture Replica Labeling (SDS-FRL). NEUROMETHODS 2016. [DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-3064-7_17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
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44
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Beckmann A, Grissmer A, Krause E, Tschernig T, Meier C. Pannexin-1 channels show distinct morphology and no gap junction characteristics in mammalian cells. Cell Tissue Res 2015; 363:751-63. [PMID: 26386583 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-015-2281-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2015] [Accepted: 08/24/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Pannexins (Panx) are proteins with a similar membrane topology to connexins, the integral membrane protein of gap junctions. Panx1 channels are generally of major importance in a large number of system and cellular processes and their function has been thoroughly characterized. In contrast, little is known about channel structure and subcellular distribution. We therefore determine the subcellular localization of Panx1 channels in cultured cells and aim at the identification of channel morphology in vitro. Using freeze-fracture replica immunolabeling on EYFP-Panx1-overexpressing HEK 293 cells, large particles were identified in plasma membranes, which were immunogold-labeled using either GFP or Panx1 antibodies. There was no labeling or particles in the nuclear membranes of these cells, pointing to plasma membrane localization of Panx1-EYFP channels. The assembly of particles was irregular, this being in contrast to the regular pattern of gap junctions. The fact that no counterparts were identified on apposing cells, which would have been indicative of intercellular signaling, supported the idea of Panx1 channels within one membrane. Control cells (transfected with EYFP only, non-transfected) were devoid of both particles and immunogold labeling. Altogether, this study provides the first demonstration of Panx1 channel morphology and assembly in intact cells. The identification of Panx1 channels as large particles within the plasma membrane provides the knowledge required to enable recognition of Panx1 channels in tissues in future studies. Thus, these results open up new avenues for the detailed analysis of the subcellular localization of Panx1 and of its nearest neighbors such as purinergic receptors in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anja Beckmann
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Saarland University, Building 61, 66421, Homburg/Saar, Germany
| | - Alexander Grissmer
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Saarland University, Building 61, 66421, Homburg/Saar, Germany
| | - Elmar Krause
- Department of Physiology, Saarland University, 66421, Homburg/Saar, Germany
| | - Thomas Tschernig
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Saarland University, Building 61, 66421, Homburg/Saar, Germany
| | - Carola Meier
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Saarland University, Building 61, 66421, Homburg/Saar, Germany.
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45
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Saitoh Y, Suzuki H, Tani K, Nishikawa K, Irie K, Ogura Y, Tamura A, Tsukita S, Fujiyoshi Y. Tight junctions. Structural insight into tight junction disassembly by Clostridium perfringens enterotoxin. Science 2015; 347:775-8. [PMID: 25678664 DOI: 10.1126/science.1261833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 151] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
The C-terminal region of Clostridium perfringens enterotoxin (C-CPE) can bind to specific claudins, resulting in the disintegration of tight junctions (TJs) and an increase in the paracellular permeability across epithelial cell sheets. Here we present the structure of mammalian claudin-19 in complex with C-CPE at 3.7 Å resolution. The structure shows that C-CPE forms extensive hydrophobic and hydrophilic interactions with the two extracellular segments of claudin-19. The claudin-19/C-CPE complex shows no density of a short extracellular helix that is critical for claudins to assemble into TJ strands. The helix displacement may thus underlie C-CPE-mediated disassembly of TJs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasunori Saitoh
- Cellular and Structural Physiology Institute, Nagoya University, Chikusa, Nagoya 464-8601, Japan. Department of Basic Medical Science, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Science, Nagoya University, Chikusa, Nagoya 464-8601, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Suzuki
- Cellular and Structural Physiology Institute, Nagoya University, Chikusa, Nagoya 464-8601, Japan
| | - Kazutoshi Tani
- Cellular and Structural Physiology Institute, Nagoya University, Chikusa, Nagoya 464-8601, Japan
| | - Kouki Nishikawa
- Cellular and Structural Physiology Institute, Nagoya University, Chikusa, Nagoya 464-8601, Japan
| | - Katsumasa Irie
- Cellular and Structural Physiology Institute, Nagoya University, Chikusa, Nagoya 464-8601, Japan. Department of Basic Medical Science, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Science, Nagoya University, Chikusa, Nagoya 464-8601, Japan
| | - Yuki Ogura
- Laboratory of Biological Science, Graduate School of Frontier Biosciences and Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Atsushi Tamura
- Laboratory of Biological Science, Graduate School of Frontier Biosciences and Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Sachiko Tsukita
- Laboratory of Biological Science, Graduate School of Frontier Biosciences and Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Yoshinori Fujiyoshi
- Cellular and Structural Physiology Institute, Nagoya University, Chikusa, Nagoya 464-8601, Japan. Department of Basic Medical Science, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Science, Nagoya University, Chikusa, Nagoya 464-8601, Japan.
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46
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Zilles K, Amunts K. Anatomical Basis for Functional Specialization. FMRI: FROM NUCLEAR SPINS TO BRAIN FUNCTIONS 2015. [DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4899-7591-1_4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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47
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Abstract
Low-temperature electron microscopy endeavors to provide "solidification of a biological specimen by cooling with the aim of minimal displacement of its components through the use of low temperature as a physical fixation strategy" (Steinbrecht and Zierold, Cryotechniques in biological electron microscopy. Springer-Verlag, Berlin, p 293, 1987). The intention is to maintain confidence that the tissue observed retains the morphology and dimensions of the living material while also ensuring soluble cellular components are not displaced. As applied to both scanning and transmission electron microscopy, cryo-electron microscopy is a strategy whereby the application of low-temperature techniques are used to reduce or remove processing artifacts which are commonly encountered in more conventional room temperature electron microscopy techniques which rely heavily on chemical fixation and heavy metal staining. Often, cryo-electron microscopy allows direct observation of specimens, which have not been stained or chemically fixed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roland A Fleck
- Centre for Ultrastructural Imaging, King's College London, New Hunts House, Guy's Campus, London, SE1 1UL, UK,
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48
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Luján R, Aguado C. Localization and Targeting of GIRK Channels in Mammalian Central Neurons. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF NEUROBIOLOGY 2015; 123:161-200. [PMID: 26422985 DOI: 10.1016/bs.irn.2015.05.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
G protein-gated inwardly rectifying K(+) (GIRK/K(ir)3) channels are critical to brain function. They hyperpolarize neurons in response to activation of different G protein-coupled receptors, reducing cell excitability. Molecular cloning has revealed four distinct mammalian genes (GIRK1-4), which, with the exception of GIRK4, are broadly expressed in the central nervous system (CNS) and have been implicated in a variety of neurological disorders. Although the molecular structure and composition of GIRK channels are key determinants of their biophysical properties, their cellular and subcellular localization patterns and densities on the neuronal surface are just as important to nerve function. Current data obtained with high-resolution quantitative localization techniques reveal complex, subcellular compartment-specific distribution patterns of GIRK channel subunits. Recent efforts have focused on determining the associated proteins that form macromolecular complexes with GIRK channels. Demonstration of the precise subcellular compartmentalization of GIRK channels and their associated proteins represents a crucial step in understanding the contribution of these channels to specific aspects of neuronal function under both physiological and pathological conditions. Here, we present an overview of studies aimed at determining the cellular and subcellular localization of GIRK channel subunits in mammalian brain neurons and discuss implications for neuronal physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafael Luján
- Instituto de Investigación en Discapacidades Neurológicas (IDINE), Departamento de Ciencias Médicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Castilla-La Mancha, Campus Biosanitario, Albacete, Spain.
| | - Carolina Aguado
- Instituto de Investigación en Discapacidades Neurológicas (IDINE), Departamento de Ciencias Médicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Castilla-La Mancha, Campus Biosanitario, Albacete, Spain
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49
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Nakamura Y, Harada H, Kamasawa N, Matsui K, Rothman JS, Shigemoto R, Silver RA, DiGregorio DA, Takahashi T. Nanoscale distribution of presynaptic Ca(2+) channels and its impact on vesicular release during development. Neuron 2014; 85:145-158. [PMID: 25533484 PMCID: PMC4305191 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2014.11.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 163] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/14/2014] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Synaptic efficacy and precision are influenced by the coupling of voltage-gated Ca2+ channels (VGCCs) to vesicles. But because the topography of VGCCs and their proximity to vesicles is unknown, a quantitative understanding of the determinants of vesicular release at nanometer scale is lacking. To investigate this, we combined freeze-fracture replica immunogold labeling of Cav2.1 channels, local [Ca2+] imaging, and patch pipette perfusion of EGTA at the calyx of Held. Between postnatal day 7 and 21, VGCCs formed variable sized clusters and vesicular release became less sensitive to EGTA, whereas fixed Ca2+ buffer properties remained constant. Experimentally constrained reaction-diffusion simulations suggest that Ca2+ sensors for vesicular release are located at the perimeter of VGCC clusters (<30 nm) and predict that VGCC number per cluster determines vesicular release probability without altering release time course. This “perimeter release model” provides a unifying framework accounting for developmental changes in both synaptic efficacy and time course. Ca2+ channels form clusters with highly variable numbers of channels EGTA sensitivity suggests that synaptic vesicles are tightly coupled to clusters Ca2+ channel number per cluster alters synaptic efficacy, but not precision A perimeter model accounts for synaptic efficacy and precision during development
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Affiliation(s)
- Yukihiro Nakamura
- Laboratory of Molecular Synaptic Function, Graduate School of Brain Science, Doshisha University, Kyoto 610-0394, Japan; Cellular & Molecular Synaptic Function Unit, Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University, Okinawa 904-0495, Japan; Laboratory of Dynamic Neuronal Imaging, Institut Pasteur, 25 rue du Dr Roux, 75724 Paris Cedex 15, France; CNRS UMR 3571, 25 rue du Dr Roux, 75724 Paris Cedex 15, France
| | - Harumi Harada
- Division of Cerebral Structure, Department of Cerebral Research, National Institute for Physiological Sciences, Myodaiji, Okazaki 444-8787, Japan; Institute of Science and Technology Austria, A-3400 Klosterneuburg, Austria
| | - Naomi Kamasawa
- Division of Cerebral Structure, Department of Cerebral Research, National Institute for Physiological Sciences, Myodaiji, Okazaki 444-8787, Japan
| | - Ko Matsui
- Division of Cerebral Structure, Department of Cerebral Research, National Institute for Physiological Sciences, Myodaiji, Okazaki 444-8787, Japan
| | - Jason S Rothman
- Department of Neuroscience, Physiology and Pharmacology, University College London, Gower Street London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Ryuichi Shigemoto
- Division of Cerebral Structure, Department of Cerebral Research, National Institute for Physiological Sciences, Myodaiji, Okazaki 444-8787, Japan; Institute of Science and Technology Austria, A-3400 Klosterneuburg, Austria
| | - R Angus Silver
- Department of Neuroscience, Physiology and Pharmacology, University College London, Gower Street London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - David A DiGregorio
- Laboratory of Dynamic Neuronal Imaging, Institut Pasteur, 25 rue du Dr Roux, 75724 Paris Cedex 15, France; CNRS UMR 3571, 25 rue du Dr Roux, 75724 Paris Cedex 15, France.
| | - Tomoyuki Takahashi
- Laboratory of Molecular Synaptic Function, Graduate School of Brain Science, Doshisha University, Kyoto 610-0394, Japan; Cellular & Molecular Synaptic Function Unit, Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University, Okinawa 904-0495, Japan.
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50
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Kan FWK. Freeze-fracture immunocytochemistry: fracture-label and label-fracture for the localization of membrane proteins. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014; 65:4.28.1-15. [PMID: 25447078 DOI: 10.1002/0471143030.cb0428s65] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Freeze-fracture is a unique investigative tool for visualization of the en face topography of individual membrane leaflets of cell membranes at high resolution under the electron microscope. The development of a system of freeze-fracture cytochemical and immunocytochemical techniques has further advanced the utility of this methodological approach for high-resolution localization of specific membrane and intracellular macromolecules in tissues and cells. The unit focuses on description, in a step-by-step manner, of the experimental procedures for two specific freeze-fracture labeling techniques, namely fracture-label and label-fracture. Users are guided in a stepwise manner, starting from the preparation of tissue or cell samples to the final retrieval and mounting of fracture-label and label-fracture specimens for examination on the electron microscope.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frederick W K Kan
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
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