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Munarriz-Cuezva E, Meana JJ. Poly (I:C)-induced maternal immune activation generates impairment of reversal learning performance in offspring. J Neurochem 2024. [PMID: 39183542 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.16212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2024] [Revised: 08/07/2024] [Accepted: 08/09/2024] [Indexed: 08/27/2024]
Abstract
Maternal immune activation (MIA) induces a variety of behavioral and brain abnormalities in offspring of rodent models, compatible with neurodevelopmental disorders, such as schizophrenia or autism. However, it remains controversial whether MIA impairs reversal learning, a basic expression of cognitive flexibility that seems to be altered in schizophrenia. In the present study, MIA was induced by administration of a single dose of polyriboinosinic-polyribocytidylic acid (Poly (I:C) (5 mg/kg i.p.)) or saline to mouse pregnant dams in gestational day (GD) 9.5. Immune activation was monitored through changes in weight and temperature. The offspring were evaluated when they reached adulthood (8 weeks) using a touchscreen-based system to investigate the effects of Poly (I:C) on discrimination and reversal learning performance. After an initial pre-training, mice were trained to discriminate between two different stimuli, of which only one was rewarded (acquisition phase). When the correct response reached above 80% values for two consecutive days, the images were reversed (reversal phase) to assess the adaptation capacity to a changing environment. Maternal Poly (I:C) treatment did not interfere with the learning process but induced deficits in reversal learning compared to control saline animals. Thus, the accuracy in the reversal phase was lower, and Poly (I:C) animals required more sessions to complete it, suggesting impairments in cognitive flexibility. This study advances the knowledge of how MIA affects behavior, especially cognitive domains that are impaired in schizophrenia. The findings support the validity of the Poly (I:C)-based MIA model as a tool to develop pharmacological treatments targeting cognitive deficits associated with neurodevelopmental disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Munarriz-Cuezva
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country, Leioa, Bizkaia, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental, Leioa, Bizkaia, Spain
| | - Jose Javier Meana
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country, Leioa, Bizkaia, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental, Leioa, Bizkaia, Spain
- Biobizkaia Health Research Institute, Barakaldo, Bizkaia, Spain
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2
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Schaer R, Mueller FS, Notter T, Weber-Stadlbauer U, Meyer U. Intrauterine position effects in a mouse model of maternal immune activation. Brain Behav Immun 2024; 120:391-402. [PMID: 38897330 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2024.06.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2024] [Revised: 05/27/2024] [Accepted: 06/16/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Rodent models of maternal immune activation (MIA) are increasingly used as experimental tools in preclinical research of immune-mediated neurodevelopmental disorders and mental illnesses. Using a viral-like MIA model that is based on prenatal poly(I:C) exposure in mice, we have recently identified the existence of subgroups of MIA-exposed offspring that show dissociable behavioral, transcriptional, brain network and inflammatory profiles even under conditions of genetic homogeneity and identical MIA. Here, we tested the hypothesis that the intrauterine positions of fetuses, which are known to shape individual variability in litter-bearing mammals through variations in fetal hormone exposure, may contribute to the variable outcomes of MIA in mice. MIA was induced by maternal administration of poly(I:C) on gestation day 12 in C57BL/6N mice. Determining intrauterine positions using delivery by Cesarean section (C-section), we found that MIA-exposed offspring developing between female fetuses only (0M-MIA offspring) displayed significant deficits in sociability and sensorimotor gating at adult age, whereas MIA-exposed offspring developing between one or two males in utero (1/2M-MIA offspring) did not show the same deficits. These intrauterine position effects similarly emerged in male and female offspring. Furthermore, while MIA elevated fetal brain levels of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines independently of the precise intrauterine position and sex of adjacent fetuses during the acute phase, fetal brain levels of TNF-α remained elevated in 0M-MIA but not 1/2M-MIA offspring until the post-acute phase in late gestation. As expected, 1/2M offspring generally showed higher testosterone levels in the fetal brain during late gestation as compared to 0M offspring, confirming the transfer of testosterone from male fetuses to adjacent male or female fetuses. Taken together, our findings identify a novel source of within-litter variability contributing to heterogeneous outcomes of short- and long-term effects in a mouse model of MIA. In broader context, our findings highlight that individual differences in fetal exposure to hormonal and inflammatory signals may be a perinatal factor that shapes risk and resilience to MIA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ron Schaer
- Institute of Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Flavia S Mueller
- Institute of Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Tina Notter
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland; Neuroscience Center Zurich, University of Zurich and ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Ulrike Weber-Stadlbauer
- Institute of Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland; Neuroscience Center Zurich, University of Zurich and ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Urs Meyer
- Institute of Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland; Neuroscience Center Zurich, University of Zurich and ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
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Chen T, Meng H, Fang N, Shi P, Chen M, Liu Q, Lv L, Li W. Age-related changes in behavior profile in male offspring of rats treated with poly I:C-induced maternal immune activation in early gestation. Animal Model Exp Med 2024. [PMID: 38741390 DOI: 10.1002/ame2.12417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Autism and schizophrenia are environmental risk factors associated with prenatal viral infection during pregnancy. It is still unclear whether behavior phenotypes change at different developmental stages in offspring following the activation of the maternal immune system. METHODS Sprague-Dawley rats received a single caudal vein injection of 10 mg/kg polyinosinic:polycytidylic acid (poly I:C) on gestational day 9 and the offspring were comprehensively tested for behaviors in adolescence and adulthood. RESULTS Maternal serum levels of interleukin (IL)-6, IL-1β and tumor necrosis factor-α were elevated in poly I:C-treated dams. The offspring of maternal poly I:C-induced rats showed increased anxiety, impaired social approach, and progressive impaired cognitive and sensorimotor gating function. CONCLUSION Maternal immune activation led to developmental specificity behavioral impairment in offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tengfei Chen
- Henan Mental Hospital, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China
- Henan Key Lab of Biological Psychiatry of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China
- International Joint Research Laboratory for Psychiatry and Neuroscience of Henan, Xinxiang, China
| | - Huadan Meng
- Henan Mental Hospital, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China
- Henan Key Lab of Biological Psychiatry of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China
- International Joint Research Laboratory for Psychiatry and Neuroscience of Henan, Xinxiang, China
| | - Ni Fang
- Henan Mental Hospital, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China
- Henan Key Lab of Biological Psychiatry of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China
- International Joint Research Laboratory for Psychiatry and Neuroscience of Henan, Xinxiang, China
| | - Peiling Shi
- Henan Mental Hospital, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China
- Henan Key Lab of Biological Psychiatry of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China
- International Joint Research Laboratory for Psychiatry and Neuroscience of Henan, Xinxiang, China
| | - Mengxue Chen
- Henan Mental Hospital, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China
- Henan Key Lab of Biological Psychiatry of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China
- International Joint Research Laboratory for Psychiatry and Neuroscience of Henan, Xinxiang, China
| | - Qing Liu
- Henan Mental Hospital, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China
- Henan Key Lab of Biological Psychiatry of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China
- International Joint Research Laboratory for Psychiatry and Neuroscience of Henan, Xinxiang, China
| | - Luxian Lv
- Henan Mental Hospital, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China
- Henan Key Lab of Biological Psychiatry of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China
- International Joint Research Laboratory for Psychiatry and Neuroscience of Henan, Xinxiang, China
- Henan Province People's Hospital, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Wenqiang Li
- Henan Mental Hospital, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China
- Henan Key Lab of Biological Psychiatry of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China
- International Joint Research Laboratory for Psychiatry and Neuroscience of Henan, Xinxiang, China
- Henan Collaborative Innovation Center of Prevention and Treatment of Mental Disorder, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China
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Chou S, Wu R, Li M. Long-term impacts of prenatal maternal immune activation and postnatal maternal separation on maternal behavior in adult female rats: Relevance to postpartum mental disorders. Behav Brain Res 2024; 461:114831. [PMID: 38142861 PMCID: PMC10872411 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2023.114831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2023] [Revised: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 12/26/2023]
Abstract
Early life adversities are known to exert long-term negative impacts on psychological and brain functions in adulthood. The present work examined how a prenatal brain insult and a postnatal stressor independently or interactively influence the quality of maternal care of postpartum female rats and their cognitive and emotional functions, as a way to identify the behavioral dysfunctions underlying childhood trauma-induced postpartum mental disorders (as indexed by impaired maternal care). Sprague-Dawley female offspring born from mother rats exposed to polyinosinic:polycytidylic acid (PolyI:C, 4.0-6.0 mg/kg) intended to cause gestational maternal immune activation (MIA) or saline were subjected to a repeated maternal separation stress (RMS, 3 h/day) or no separation for 9 days in the first two weeks of life (a 2 × 2 design). When these offspring became mothers, their attentional filtering ability (as measured in the prepulse inhibition of acoustic startle reflex test), positive hedonic response (as measured in the sucrose preference test), and negative emotional response (as measured in the startle reflex and fear-potentiated startle test) were examined, along with their home-cage maternal behavior. Virgin littermates served as controls in all the behavioral tests except in maternal behavior. Results showed that mother rats who experienced RMS displayed impaired nest building and crouching/nursing activities. RMS also interacted with MIA to alter pup retrieval latency and startle reactivity, such that MIA-RMS dams demonstrated significantly slower pup retrieval latency and higher startle magnitude compared to either RMS-only and MIA-only mothers. MIA also disrupted attentional filtering ability, with significantly lower prepulse inhibition. However, neither prenatal MIA nor postnatal RMS impaired sucrose preference or the acquisition of fear-potentiated startle. These results indicate that prenatal stress and postnatal adversity could impair maternal behavior individually, and interact with each other, causing impairments in attention, emotion and maternal motivation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shinnyi Chou
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Ruiyong Wu
- College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Ming Li
- Department of Psychology, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China.
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Egorova M, Egorov V, Zabrodskaya Y. Maternal Influenza and Offspring Neurodevelopment. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2024; 46:355-366. [PMID: 38248325 PMCID: PMC10814929 DOI: 10.3390/cimb46010023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2023] [Revised: 12/23/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
This review examines the complex interactions between maternal influenza infection, the immune system, and the neurodevelopment of the offspring. It highlights the importance of high-quality studies to clarify the association between maternal exposure to the virus and neuropsychiatric disorders in the offspring. Additionally, it emphasizes that the development of accurate animal models is vital for studying the impact of infectious diseases during pregnancy and identifying potential therapeutic targets. By drawing attention to the complex nature of these interactions, this review underscores the need for ongoing research to improve the understanding and outcomes for pregnant women and their offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marya Egorova
- Smorodintsev Research Institute of Influenza, Russian Ministry of Health, 15/17 Ulitsa Prof. Popova, St. Petersburg 197376, Russia; (M.E.); (V.E.)
| | - Vladimir Egorov
- Smorodintsev Research Institute of Influenza, Russian Ministry of Health, 15/17 Ulitsa Prof. Popova, St. Petersburg 197376, Russia; (M.E.); (V.E.)
- Institute of Experimental Medicine, 12 Ulitsa Akademika Pavlova, St. Petersburg 197376, Russia
| | - Yana Zabrodskaya
- Smorodintsev Research Institute of Influenza, Russian Ministry of Health, 15/17 Ulitsa Prof. Popova, St. Petersburg 197376, Russia; (M.E.); (V.E.)
- Institute of Biomedical Systems and Biotechnology, Peter the Great Saint Petersburg Polytechnic University, 29 Ulitsa Polytechnicheskaya, St. Petersburg 194064, Russia
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Woods R, Lorusso J, Fletcher J, ElTaher H, McEwan F, Harris I, Kowash H, D'Souza SW, Harte M, Hager R, Glazier JD. Maternal immune activation and role of placenta in the prenatal programming of neurodevelopmental disorders. Neuronal Signal 2023; 7:NS20220064. [PMID: 37332846 PMCID: PMC10273029 DOI: 10.1042/ns20220064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2023] [Revised: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Maternal infection during pregnancy, leading to maternal immune activation (mIA) and cytokine release, increases the offspring risk of developing a variety of neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs), including schizophrenia. Animal models have provided evidence to support these mechanistic links, with placental inflammatory responses and dysregulation of placental function implicated. This leads to changes in fetal brain cytokine balance and altered epigenetic regulation of key neurodevelopmental pathways. The prenatal timing of such mIA-evoked changes, and the accompanying fetal developmental responses to an altered in utero environment, will determine the scope of the impacts on neurodevelopmental processes. Such dysregulation can impart enduring neuropathological changes, which manifest subsequently in the postnatal period as altered neurodevelopmental behaviours in the offspring. Hence, elucidation of the functional changes that occur at the molecular level in the placenta is vital in improving our understanding of the mechanisms that underlie the pathogenesis of NDDs. This has notable relevance to the recent COVID-19 pandemic, where inflammatory responses in the placenta to SARS-CoV-2 infection during pregnancy and NDDs in early childhood have been reported. This review presents an integrated overview of these collective topics and describes the possible contribution of prenatal programming through placental effects as an underlying mechanism that links to NDD risk, underpinned by altered epigenetic regulation of neurodevelopmental pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca M. Woods
- Division of Evolution, Infection and Genomics, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PT, U.K
| | - Jarred M. Lorusso
- Division of Evolution, Infection and Genomics, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PT, U.K
| | - Jennifer Fletcher
- Division of Pharmacy and Optometry, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Biology and Health, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PT, U.K
| | - Heidi ElTaher
- Division of Pharmacy and Optometry, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Biology and Health, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PT, U.K
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria University, Egypt
| | - Francesca McEwan
- Division of Evolution, Infection and Genomics, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PT, U.K
| | - Isabella Harris
- Division of Evolution, Infection and Genomics, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PT, U.K
| | - Hager M. Kowash
- Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9WL, U.K
| | - Stephen W. D'Souza
- Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9WL, U.K
| | - Michael Harte
- Division of Pharmacy and Optometry, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Biology and Health, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PT, U.K
| | - Reinmar Hager
- Division of Evolution, Infection and Genomics, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PT, U.K
| | - Jocelyn D. Glazier
- Division of Evolution, Infection and Genomics, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PT, U.K
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Deriha K, Hashimoto E, Ukai W, Marchisella F, Nishimura E, Hashiguchi H, Tayama M, Ishii T, Riva MA, Kawanishi C. Reduced sociability in a prenatal immune activation model: Modulation by a chronic blonanserin treatment through the amygdala-hippocampal axis. J Psychiatr Res 2023; 164:209-220. [PMID: 37379611 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2023.06.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2022] [Revised: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/30/2023]
Abstract
The environmental disturbances in a critical neurodevelopmental period exert organizational effects on brain intrinsic plasticity including excitatory and inhibitory (E/I) neurotransmission those can cause the onset of psychiatric illness. We previously reported that treatment of neural precursor cells with N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonist MK-801 induced reduction of GABAergic interneuron differentiation, and these changes recovered by atypical antipsychotic blonanserin treatment in vitro. However, it remains unclear how this treatment affects neural circuit changes in hippocampus and amygdala, which might contribute to the prevention of onset process of schizophrenia. To elucidate the pathogenic/preventive mechanisms underlying prenatal environmental adversity-induced schizophrenia in more detail, we administered poly (I:C) followed by antipsychotics and examined alterations in social/cognitive behaviors, GABA/glutamate-related gene expressions with cell density and E/I ratio, and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (Bdnf) transcript levels, particularly in limbic areas. Treatment with antipsychotic blonanserin ameliorated impaired social/cognitive behaviors and increased parvalbumin (PV)-positive (+) cell density and its mRNA levels as well as Bdnf with long 3'UTR mRNA levels, particularly in the dorsal hippocampus, in rats exposed to maternal immune activation (MIA). Low dose of blonanserin and haloperidol altered GABA and glutamate-related mRNA levels, the E/I ratio, and Bdnf long 3'UTR mRNA levels in the ventral hippocampus and amygdala, but did not attenuate behavioral impairments. These results strongly implicate changes in PV expression, PV(+) GABAergic interneuron density, and Bdnf long 3'UTR expression levels, particularly in the dorsal hippocampus, in the pathophysiology and treatment responses of MIA-induced schizophrenia and highlight the therapeutic potential of blonanserin for developmental stress-related schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenta Deriha
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Graduate School of Medicine, Sapporo Medical University, S-1, W-16, Chuo-ku, Sapporo, 0608543, Japan.
| | - Eri Hashimoto
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Graduate School of Medicine, Sapporo Medical University, S-1, W-16, Chuo-ku, Sapporo, 0608543, Japan.
| | - Wataru Ukai
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Graduate School of Medicine, Sapporo Medical University, S-1, W-16, Chuo-ku, Sapporo, 0608543, Japan; Department of Institutional Research, Center for Medical Education, Sapporo Medical University, S-1, W-16, Chuo-ku, Sapporo, 0608543, Japan.
| | - Francesca Marchisella
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences University of Milan Via Balzaretti 9, 20133, Milan, Italy.
| | - Emi Nishimura
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Graduate School of Medicine, Sapporo Medical University, S-1, W-16, Chuo-ku, Sapporo, 0608543, Japan.
| | - Hanako Hashiguchi
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Graduate School of Medicine, Sapporo Medical University, S-1, W-16, Chuo-ku, Sapporo, 0608543, Japan.
| | - Masaya Tayama
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Graduate School of Medicine, Sapporo Medical University, S-1, W-16, Chuo-ku, Sapporo, 0608543, Japan.
| | - Takao Ishii
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Graduate School of Medicine, Sapporo Medical University, S-1, W-16, Chuo-ku, Sapporo, 0608543, Japan; Department of Occupational Therapy, Graduate School of Health Sciences, Sapporo Medical University, S-1, W-17, Chuo-ku, Sapporo, 0608556, Japan
| | - Marco A Riva
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences University of Milan Via Balzaretti 9, 20133, Milan, Italy; Biological Psychiatry Unit, IRCCS Istituto Centro San Giovanni di Dio Fatebenefratelli, Brescia, Italy.
| | - Chiaki Kawanishi
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Graduate School of Medicine, Sapporo Medical University, S-1, W-16, Chuo-ku, Sapporo, 0608543, Japan.
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Haddad FL, De Oliveira C, Schmid S. Investigating behavioral phenotypes related to autism spectrum disorder in a gene-environment interaction model of Cntnap2 deficiency and Poly I:C maternal immune activation. Front Neurosci 2023; 17:1160243. [PMID: 36998729 PMCID: PMC10043204 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1160243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2023] Open
Abstract
IntroductionAutism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) has been associated with a wide variety of genetic and environmental risk factors in both human and preclinical studies. Together, findings support a gene-environment interaction hypothesis whereby different risk factors independently and synergistically impair neurodevelopment and lead to the core symptoms of ASD. To date, this hypothesis has not been commonly investigated in preclinical ASD models. Mutations in the Contactin-associated protein-like 2 (Cntnap2) gene and exposure to maternal immune activation (MIA) during pregnancy have both been linked to ASD in humans, and preclinical rodent models have shown that both MIA and Cntnap2 deficiency lead to similar behavioral deficits.MethodsIn this study, we tested the interaction between these two risk factors by exposing Wildtype, Cntnap2+/–, and Cntnap2–/– rats to Polyinosinic: Polycytidylic acid (Poly I:C) MIA at gestation day 9.5.ResultsOur findings showed that Cntnap2 deficiency and Poly I:C MIA independently and synergistically altered ASD-related behaviors like open field exploration, social behavior, and sensory processing as measured through reactivity, sensitization, and pre-pulse inhibition (PPI) of the acoustic startle response. In support of the double-hit hypothesis, Poly I:C MIA acted synergistically with the Cntnap2–/– genotype to decrease PPI in adolescent offspring. In addition, Poly I:C MIA also interacted with the Cntnap2+/– genotype to produce subtle changes in locomotor hyperactivity and social behavior. On the other hand, Cntnap2 knockout and Poly I:C MIA showed independent effects on acoustic startle reactivity and sensitization.DiscussionTogether, our findings support the gene-environment interaction hypothesis of ASD by showing that different genetic and environmental risk factors could act synergistically to exacerbate behavioral changes. In addition, by showing the independent effects of each risk factor, our findings suggest that ASD phenotypes could be caused by different underlying mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faraj L. Haddad
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, The University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, The University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
| | - Cleusa De Oliveira
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, The University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
| | - Susanne Schmid
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, The University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
- Department of Psychology, The University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
- *Correspondence: Susanne Schmid,
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Guma E, Cupo L, Ma W, Gallino D, Moquin L, Gratton A, Devenyi GA, Chakravarty MM. Investigating the "two-hit hypothesis": Effects of prenatal maternal immune activation and adolescent cannabis use on neurodevelopment in mice. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2023; 120:110642. [PMID: 36150422 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2022.110642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Revised: 09/14/2022] [Accepted: 09/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
Prenatal exposure to maternal immune activation (MIA) and chronic adolescent cannabis use are both risk factors for neuropsychiatric disorders. However, exposure to a single risk factor may not result in major mental illness, indicating that multiple exposures may be required for illness onset. Here, we examine whether combined exposure to prenatal MIA and adolescent delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the main psychoactive component of cannabis, lead to enduring neuroanatomical and behavioural changes in adulthood. Mice were prenatally exposed to viral mimetic, poly I:C (5 mg/kg), or vehicle at gestational day (GD) 9, and postnatally exposed to chronic THC (5 mg/kg, intraperitoneal) or vehicle during adolescence (postnatal day [PND]28-45). Longitudinal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was performed pre-treatment, PND 25, post-treatment, PND 50, and in adulthood, PND85, followed by behavioural tests for anxiety-like, social, and sensorimotor gating. Post-mortem assessment of cannabinoid (CB)1 and 2 receptor expressing cells was performed in altered regions identified by MRI (anterior cingulate and somatosensory cortices, striatum, and hippocampus). Subtle deviations in neurodevelopmental trajectory and subthreshold anxiety-like behaviours were observed in mice exposed to both risk factors. Sex-dependent effects were observed in patterns of shared brain-behaviour covariation, indicative of potential sex differences in response to MIA and THC. Density of CB1 and CB2 receptor positive cells was significantly decreased in all mice exposed to MIA, THC, or both. These findings suggest that there may be a cumulative effect of risk factor exposure on gross neuroanatomical development, and that the endocannabinoid system may be sensitive to both prenatal MIA, adolescent THC, or the combination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Guma
- Computational Brain Anatomy Laboratory, Cerebral Imaging Center, Douglas Mental Health University Institute, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Integrated Program in Neuroscience, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Developmental Neurogenomics Unit, Human Genetics Branch, National Institute of Mental Health, Bethesda, MD, USA.
| | - Lani Cupo
- Computational Brain Anatomy Laboratory, Cerebral Imaging Center, Douglas Mental Health University Institute, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Integrated Program in Neuroscience, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Weiya Ma
- Douglas Mental Health University Institute, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Daniel Gallino
- Computational Brain Anatomy Laboratory, Cerebral Imaging Center, Douglas Mental Health University Institute, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Luc Moquin
- Douglas Mental Health University Institute, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Alain Gratton
- Integrated Program in Neuroscience, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Douglas Mental Health University Institute, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Gabriel A Devenyi
- Computational Brain Anatomy Laboratory, Cerebral Imaging Center, Douglas Mental Health University Institute, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Douglas Mental Health University Institute, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - M Mallar Chakravarty
- Computational Brain Anatomy Laboratory, Cerebral Imaging Center, Douglas Mental Health University Institute, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Integrated Program in Neuroscience, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Douglas Mental Health University Institute, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada; Department of Biological and Biomedical Engineering, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
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10
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Could psychedelic drugs have a role in the treatment of schizophrenia? Rationale and strategy for safe implementation. Mol Psychiatry 2023; 28:44-58. [PMID: 36280752 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-022-01832-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2022] [Revised: 10/02/2022] [Accepted: 10/07/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Schizophrenia is a widespread psychiatric disorder that affects 0.5-1.0% of the world's population and induces significant, long-term disability that exacts high personal and societal cost. Negative symptoms, which respond poorly to available antipsychotic drugs, are the primary cause of this disability. Association of negative symptoms with cortical atrophy and cell loss is widely reported. Psychedelic drugs are undergoing a significant renaissance in psychiatric disorders with efficacy reported in several conditions including depression, in individuals facing terminal cancer, posttraumatic stress disorder, and addiction. There is considerable evidence from preclinical studies and some support from human studies that psychedelics enhance neuroplasticity. In this Perspective, we consider the possibility that psychedelic drugs could have a role in treating cortical atrophy and cell loss in schizophrenia, and ameliorating the negative symptoms associated with these pathological manifestations. The foremost concern in treating schizophrenia patients with psychedelic drugs is induction or exacerbation of psychosis. We consider several strategies that could be implemented to mitigate the danger of psychotogenic effects and allow treatment of schizophrenia patients with psychedelics to be implemented. These include use of non-hallucinogenic derivatives, which are currently the focus of intense study, implementation of sub-psychedelic or microdosing, harnessing of entourage effects in extracts of psychedelic mushrooms, and blocking 5-HT2A receptor-mediated hallucinogenic effects. Preclinical studies that employ appropriate animal models are a prerequisite and clinical studies will need to be carefully designed on the basis of preclinical and translational data. Careful research in this area could significantly impact the treatment of one of the most severe and socially debilitating psychiatric disorders and open an exciting new frontier in psychopharmacology.
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11
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Bucknor MC, Gururajan A, Dale RC, Hofer MJ. A comprehensive approach to modeling maternal immune activation in rodents. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:1071976. [PMID: 36590294 PMCID: PMC9800799 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.1071976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Prenatal brain development is a highly orchestrated process, making it a very vulnerable window to perturbations. Maternal stress and subsequent inflammation during pregnancy leads to a state referred to as, maternal immune activation (MIA). If persistent, MIA can pose as a significant risk factor for the manifestation of neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) such as autism spectrum disorder and schizophrenia. To further elucidate this association between MIA and NDD risk, rodent models have been used extensively across laboratories for many years. However, there are few uniform approaches for rodent MIA models which make not only comparisons between studies difficult, but some established approaches come with limitations that can affect experimental outcomes. Here, we provide researchers with a comprehensive review of common experimental variables and potential limitations that should be considered when designing an MIA study based in a rodent model. Experimental variables discussed include: innate immune stimulation using poly I:C and LPS, environmental gestational stress paradigms, rodent diet composition and sterilization, rodent strain, neonatal handling, and the inclusion of sex-specific MIA offspring analyses. We discuss how some aspects of these variables have potential to make a profound impact on MIA data interpretation and reproducibility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Morgan C. Bucknor
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Charles Perkins Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Anand Gururajan
- The Brain and Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Russell C. Dale
- The Children’s Hospital at Westmead, Kids Neuroscience Centre, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia,The Children’s Hospital at Westmead Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Markus J. Hofer
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Charles Perkins Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia,*Correspondence: Markus J. Hofer,
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12
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Sun W, Mei Y, Li X, Yang Y, An L. Maternal immune activation-induced proBDNF-mediated neural information processing dysfunction at hippocampal CA3-CA1 synapses associated with memory deficits in offspring. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:1018586. [PMID: 36438556 PMCID: PMC9691851 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.1018586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2022] [Accepted: 10/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Prenatal exposure to maternal infection increases the risk of offspring developing schizophrenia in adulthood. Current theories suggest that the consequences of MIA on mBDNF secretion may underlie the increased risk of cognitive disorder. There is little evidence for whether the expression of its precursor, proBDNF, is changed and how proBDNF-mediated signaling may involve in learning and memory. In this study, proBDNF levels were detected in the hippocampal CA1 and CA3 regions of male adult rats following MIA by prenatal polyI:C exposure. Behaviorally, learning and memory were assessed in contextual fear conditioning tasks. Local field potentials were recorded in the hippocampal CA3-CA1 pathway. The General Partial Directed Coherence approach was utilized to identify the directional alternation of neural information flow between CA3 and CA1 regions. EPSCs were recorded in CA1 pyramidal neurons to explore a possible mechanism involving the proBDNF-p75NTR signaling pathway. Results showed that the expression of proBDNF in the polyI:C-treated offspring was abnormally enhanced in both CA3 and CA1 regions. Meanwhile, the mBDNF expression was reduced in both hippocampal regions. Intra-hippocampal CA1 but not CA3 injection with anti-proBDNF antibody and p75NTR inhibitor TAT-Pep5 effectively mitigated the contextual memory deficits. Meanwhile, reductions in the phase synchronization between CA3 and CA1 and the coupling directional indexes from CA3 to CA1 were enhanced by the intra-CA1 infusions. Moreover, blocking proBDNF/p75NTR signaling could reverse the declined amplitude of EPSCs in CA1 pyramidal neurons, indicating the changes in postsynaptic information processing in the polyI:C-treated offspring. Therefore, the changes in hippocampal proBDNF activity in prenatal polyI:C exposure represent a potential mechanism involved in NIF disruption leading to contextual memory impairments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Sun
- Department of Pediatric, The First Affiliated Hospital, Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang, Guizhou, China
- Behavioral Neuroscience Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital, Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang, Guizhou, China
| | - Yazi Mei
- Graduate School, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaoliang Li
- Department of Neurology, Jinan Geriatric/Rehabilitation Hospital, Jinan, China
| | - Yang Yang
- Department of Pediatric, The First Affiliated Hospital, Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang, Guizhou, China
| | - Lei An
- Department of Pediatric, The First Affiliated Hospital, Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang, Guizhou, China
- Behavioral Neuroscience Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital, Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang, Guizhou, China
- Department of Neurology, Jinan Geriatric/Rehabilitation Hospital, Jinan, China
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang, Guizhou, China
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13
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Lorusso JM, Woods RM, McEwan F, Glazier JD, Neill JC, Harte M, Hager R. Clustering of cognitive phenotypes identifies susceptible and resilient offspring in a rat model of maternal immune activation and early-life stress. Brain Behav Immun Health 2022; 25:100514. [PMID: 36177307 PMCID: PMC9513103 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbih.2022.100514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Schizophrenia and other neurodevelopmental disorders often have very heterogeneous symptoms, especially regarding cognition: while some individuals may exhibit deficient cognition, others are relatively unaffected. Studies using developmental animal models often ignore phenotypic heterogeneity in favour of traditional treatment/control comparisons. This may result in resilient or unaffected individuals masking the effects of susceptible individuals if grouped together. Here, we used maternal immune activation and limited bedding and nesting, respectively, as a two-hit neurodevelopmental model for schizophrenia. Both factors reduced cognitive function in a novel object recognition (NOR) task. While we found treatment group effects on cognitive phenotypes, behavioural clustering identified three subpopulations exposed to either insult: those exhibiting ‘typical’ cognitive performance on the NOR, an intermediate phenotype, or a marked deficit. These clusters included offspring from each treatment group, although both intermediate and marked deficit clusters were composed primarily of offspring from treated groups. Clustering allowed stratification within treatment groups into ‘susceptible’ and ‘resilient’ individuals, while also identifying conserved phenotypes across treatment groups. Using unbiased cluster analyses in preclinical models can better characterize phenotypes and enables a better understanding of both face and construct validity of phenotypic heterogeneity. The use of unbiased clustering techniques may help identify potential markers associated with individual susceptibility and resilience in neurodevelopmental disorder models. Maternal immune activation and early life stress affect recognition memory. New groups were identified using unbiased clustering based on task performance. These clusters reflected high-, low-, and intermediary recognition memory. Treatment offspring were distributed across all three unbiased clusters. These findings suggest some offspring will be resilient to developmental insults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jarred M. Lorusso
- Division of Evolution, Infection, and Genomics, School of Biological Sciences, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Faculty of Biology, Medicine & Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, M13 9PL, United Kingdom
- Corresponding author.
| | - Rebecca M. Woods
- Division of Evolution, Infection, and Genomics, School of Biological Sciences, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Faculty of Biology, Medicine & Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, M13 9PL, United Kingdom
| | - Francesca McEwan
- Division of Evolution, Infection, and Genomics, School of Biological Sciences, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Faculty of Biology, Medicine & Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, M13 9PL, United Kingdom
| | - Jocelyn D. Glazier
- Division of Evolution, Infection, and Genomics, School of Biological Sciences, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Faculty of Biology, Medicine & Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, M13 9PL, United Kingdom
| | - Joanna C. Neill
- Division of Pharmacy & Optometry, School of Health Sciences, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Faculty of Biology, Medicine & Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, M13 9PL, United Kingdom
| | - Michael Harte
- Division of Pharmacy & Optometry, School of Health Sciences, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Faculty of Biology, Medicine & Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, M13 9PL, United Kingdom
| | - Reinmar Hager
- Division of Evolution, Infection, and Genomics, School of Biological Sciences, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Faculty of Biology, Medicine & Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, M13 9PL, United Kingdom
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14
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Meyer U. Sources and Translational Relevance of Heterogeneity in Maternal Immune Activation Models. Curr Top Behav Neurosci 2022; 61:71-91. [PMID: 36306055 DOI: 10.1007/7854_2022_398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
The epidemiological literature reporting increased risk for neurodevelopmental and psychiatric disorders after prenatal exposure to maternal immune activation (MIA) is still evolving, and so are the attempts to model this association in animals. Epidemiological studies of MIA offer the advantage of directly evaluating human populations but are often limited in their ability to uncover pathogenic mechanisms. Animal models, on the other hand, are limited in their generalizability to psychiatric disorders but have made significant strides toward discovering causal relationships and biological pathways between MIA and neurobiological phenotypes. Like in any other model system, both planned and unplanned sources of variability exist in animal models of MIA. Therefore, the design, implementation, and interpretation of MIA models warrant a careful consideration of these sources, so that appropriate strategies can be developed to handle them satisfactorily. While every research group may have its own strategy to this aim, it is essential to report the methodological details of the chosen MIA model in order to enhance the transparency and comparability of models across research laboratories. Even though it poses a challenge for attempts to compare experimental findings across laboratories, variability does not undermine the utility of MIA models for translational research. In fact, variability and heterogenous outcomes in MIA models offer unique opportunities for new discoveries and developments in this field, including the identification of disease pathways and molecular mechanisms determining susceptibility and resilience to MIA. This review summarizes the most important sources of variability in animal models of MIA and discusses how model variability can be used to investigate neurobiological and immunological factors causing phenotypic heterogeneity in offspring exposed to MIA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Urs Meyer
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zurich-Vetsuisse, Zurich, Switzerland.
- Neuroscience Center Zurich, University of Zurich and ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
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15
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Hanson KL, Grant SE, Funk LH, Schumann CM, Bauman MD. Impact of Maternal Immune Activation on Nonhuman Primate Prefrontal Cortex Development: Insights for Schizophrenia. Biol Psychiatry 2022; 92:460-469. [PMID: 35773097 PMCID: PMC9888668 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2022.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2022] [Revised: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 04/13/2022] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Late adolescence is a period of dynamic change in the brain as humans learn to navigate increasingly complex environments. In particular, prefrontal cortical (PFC) regions undergo extensive remodeling as the brain is fine-tuned to orchestrate cognitive control over attention, reasoning, and emotions. Late adolescence also presents a uniquely vulnerable period as neurodevelopmental illnesses, such as schizophrenia, become evident and worsen into young adulthood. Challenges in early development, including prenatal exposure to infection, may set the stage for a cascade of maladaptive events that ultimately result in aberrant PFC connectivity and function before symptoms emerge. A growing body of research suggests that activation of the mother's immune system during pregnancy may act as a disease primer, in combination with other environmental and genetic factors, contributing to an increased risk of neurodevelopmental disorders, including schizophrenia. Animal models provide an invaluable opportunity to examine the course of brain and behavioral changes in offspring exposed to maternal immune activation (MIA). Although the vast majority of MIA research has been carried out in rodents, here we highlight the translational utility of the nonhuman primate (NHP) as a model species more closely related to humans in PFC structure and function. In this review, we consider the protracted period of brain and behavioral maturation in the NHP, describe emerging findings from MIA NHP offspring in the context of rodent preclinical models, and lastly explore the translational relevance of the NHP MIA model to expand understanding of the etiology and developmental course of PFC pathology in schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kari L Hanson
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, Davis, Davis, California; MIND Institute, University of California, Davis, Davis, California
| | - Simone E Grant
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, Davis, Davis, California
| | - Lucy H Funk
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, Davis, Davis, California
| | - Cynthia M Schumann
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, Davis, Davis, California; MIND Institute, University of California, Davis, Davis, California.
| | - Melissa D Bauman
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, Davis, Davis, California; MIND Institute, University of California, Davis, Davis, California; California National Primate Research Center, University of California, Davis, Davis, California.
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16
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Fung SG, Fakhraei R, Condran G, Regan AK, Dimanlig-Cruz S, Ricci C, Foo D, Sarna M, Török E, Fell DB. Neuropsychiatric outcomes in offspring after fetal exposure to maternal influenza infection during pregnancy: A systematic review. Reprod Toxicol 2022; 113:155-169. [PMID: 36100136 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2022.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2022] [Revised: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 09/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Increasing evidence suggests that influenza infection in pregnancy may disrupt fetal neurodevelopment. The impact of maternal influenza infection on offspring neuropsychiatric health has not been comprehensively reviewed. We systematically reviewed comparative studies evaluating associations between maternal influenza infection and neuropsychiatric health outcomes in offspring. We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, and Web of Science for articles published until January 7, 2022. Included were English studies evaluating neuropsychiatric outcomes in offspring aged > 6 months born to women with and without influenza during pregnancy, defined as clinical or laboratory-confirmed influenza illness, or being pregnant during pandemics/epidemics. Of 12,010 records screened, 42 studies were included. Heterogeneity in study design, exposures, and outcome definitions precluded meta-analyses. Four of 14 studies assessing schizophrenia reported adjusted ratio estimates from 0.5 to 8.2; most 95% CIs contained the null value; study quality was high in three of four. Two studies reported an increased risk of schizophrenia with influenza exposure any time during pregnancy (adjusted incidence rate ratio 8.2, 95% CI: 1.4-48.8; adjusted odds ratio 1.3, 95% CI: 1.2-1.5); another reported a reduced risk with first-trimester exposure (adjusted risk ratio 0.5, 95% CI: 0.3-0.9). Seven studies of autism spectrum disorder reported adjusted ratio estimates from 0.9 to 4.0; all 95% CIs included the null value; study quality was high in four. No conclusions could be drawn about the association between exposure to maternal influenza and neuropsychiatric outcomes due to the limited quantity and quality of available research. Large observational studies with long-term follow-up are required to investigate these associations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen G Fung
- Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO) Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Romina Fakhraei
- Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO) Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada; The Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada; School of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | | | - Annette K Regan
- School of Nursing and Health Professions, University of San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States; Curtin School of Population Health, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia; Wesfarmers Centre of Vaccines and Infectious Diseases, Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | | | | | - Damien Foo
- Curtin School of Population Health, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia; Wesfarmers Centre of Vaccines and Infectious Diseases, Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Mohinder Sarna
- Curtin School of Population Health, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia; Wesfarmers Centre of Vaccines and Infectious Diseases, Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | | | - Deshayne B Fell
- Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO) Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada; School of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada.
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17
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de Bartolomeis A, Barone A, Vellucci L, Mazza B, Austin MC, Iasevoli F, Ciccarelli M. Linking Inflammation, Aberrant Glutamate-Dopamine Interaction, and Post-synaptic Changes: Translational Relevance for Schizophrenia and Antipsychotic Treatment: a Systematic Review. Mol Neurobiol 2022; 59:6460-6501. [PMID: 35963926 PMCID: PMC9463235 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-022-02976-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2022] [Accepted: 07/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Evidence from clinical, preclinical, and post-mortem studies supports the inflammatory/immune hypothesis of schizophrenia pathogenesis. Less evident is the link between the inflammatory background and two well-recognized functional and structural findings of schizophrenia pathophysiology: the dopamine-glutamate aberrant interaction and the alteration of dendritic spines architecture, both believed to be the “quantal” elements of cortical-subcortical dysfunctional network. In this systematic review, we tried to capture the major findings linking inflammation, aberrant glutamate-dopamine interaction, and post-synaptic changes under a direct and inverse translational perspective, a paramount picture that at present is lacking. The inflammatory effects on dopaminergic function appear to be bidirectional: the inflammation influences dopamine release, and dopamine acts as a regulator of discrete inflammatory processes involved in schizophrenia such as dysregulated interleukin and kynurenine pathways. Furthermore, the link between inflammation and glutamate is strongly supported by clinical studies aimed at exploring overactive microglia in schizophrenia patients and maternal immune activation models, indicating impaired glutamate regulation and reduced N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) function. In addition, an inflammatory/immune-induced alteration of post-synaptic density scaffold proteins, crucial for downstream NMDAR signaling and synaptic efficacy, has been demonstrated. According to these findings, a significant increase in plasma inflammatory markers has been found in schizophrenia patients compared to healthy controls, associated with reduced cortical integrity and functional connectivity, relevant to the cognitive deficit of schizophrenia. Finally, the link between altered inflammatory/immune responses raises relevant questions regarding potential new therapeutic strategies specifically for those forms of schizophrenia that are resistant to canonical antipsychotics or unresponsive to clozapine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea de Bartolomeis
- Laboratory of Molecular and Translational Psychiatry, University School of Medicine of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy. .,Unit of Treatment Resistant Psychosis, Section of Psychiatry, Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Science and Odontostomatology, University School of Medicine of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy.
| | - Annarita Barone
- Laboratory of Molecular and Translational Psychiatry, University School of Medicine of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy.,Unit of Treatment Resistant Psychosis, Section of Psychiatry, Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Science and Odontostomatology, University School of Medicine of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Licia Vellucci
- Laboratory of Molecular and Translational Psychiatry, University School of Medicine of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy.,Unit of Treatment Resistant Psychosis, Section of Psychiatry, Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Science and Odontostomatology, University School of Medicine of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Benedetta Mazza
- Unit of Treatment Resistant Psychosis, Section of Psychiatry, Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Science and Odontostomatology, University School of Medicine of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Mark C Austin
- Clinical Psychopharmacology Program, College of Pharmacy, Idaho State University (ISU), Pocatello, ID, USA
| | - Felice Iasevoli
- Laboratory of Molecular and Translational Psychiatry, University School of Medicine of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy.,Unit of Treatment Resistant Psychosis, Section of Psychiatry, Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Science and Odontostomatology, University School of Medicine of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Mariateresa Ciccarelli
- Laboratory of Molecular and Translational Psychiatry, University School of Medicine of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy.,Unit of Treatment Resistant Psychosis, Section of Psychiatry, Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Science and Odontostomatology, University School of Medicine of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
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18
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Haddad FL, Patel SV, Doornaert EE, De Oliveira C, Allman BL, Baines KJ, Renaud SJ, Schmid S. Interleukin 15 modulates the effects of poly I:C maternal immune activation on offspring behaviour. Brain Behav Immun Health 2022; 23:100473. [PMID: 35668725 PMCID: PMC9166394 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbih.2022.100473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2022] [Accepted: 05/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Maternal infections during pregnancy are linked with an increased risk for disorders like Autism Spectrum Disorder and schizophrenia in the offspring. Although precise mechanisms are still unclear, clinical and preclinical evidence suggest a strong role for maternal immune activation (MIA) in the neurodevelopmental disruptions caused by maternal infection. Previously, studies using the Polyinosinic:Polycytidylic (Poly I:C) MIA preclinical model showed that cytokines like Interleukin 6 (Il6) are important mediators of MIA's effects. In this study, we hypothesized that Il15 may similarly act as a mediator of Poly I:C MIA, given its role in the antiviral immune response. To test this hypothesis, we induced Poly I:C MIA at gestational day 9.5 in wildtype (WT) and Il15−/− rat dams and tested their offspring in adolescence and adulthood. Poly I:C MIA and Il15 knockout produced both independent and synergistic effects on offspring behaviour. Poly I:C MIA decreased startle reactivity in adult WT offspring but resulted in increased adolescent anxiety and decreased adult locomotor activity in Il15−/− offspring. In addition, Poly I:C MIA led to genotype-independent effects on locomotor activity and prepulse inhibition. Finally, we showed that Il15−/− offspring exhibit distinct phenotypes that were unrelated to Poly I:C MIA including altered startle reactivity, locomotion and signal transduction in the auditory brainstem. Overall, our findings indicate that the lack of Il15 can leave offspring either more or less susceptible to Poly I:C MIA, depending on the phenotype in question. Future studies should examine the contribution of fetal versus maternal Il15 in MIA to determine the precise developmental mechanisms underlying these changes. Poly I:C MIA decreases startle reactivity in adult WT but not Il15−/− offspring. Il15−/− offspring exposed to Poly I:C MIA show altered PPI and open field exploration. Il15−/− rats exhibit distinct behavioural phenotypes independent from MIA.
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19
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Kim A, Zisman CR, Holingue C. Influences of the Immune System and Microbiome on the Etiology of ASD and GI Symptomology of Autistic Individuals. Curr Top Behav Neurosci 2022; 61:141-161. [PMID: 35711026 DOI: 10.1007/7854_2022_371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Autism Spectrum Disorder is a developmental condition associated with impairments in communication and social interactions, and repetitive and restricted behavior or interests. Autistic individuals are more likely to experience gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms than neurotypical individuals. This may be partially due to dysbiosis of the gut microbiome. In this article, we describe the interaction of the microbiome and immune system on autism etiology. We also summarize the links between the microbiome and gastrointestinal and related symptoms among autistic individuals. We report that microbial interventions, including diet, probiotics, antibiotics, and fecal transplants, and immune-modulating therapies such as cytokine blockade during the preconception, pregnancy, and postnatal period may impact the neurodevelopment, behavior, and gastrointestinal health of autistic individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda Kim
- Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Corina R Zisman
- Department of Psychology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
| | - Calliope Holingue
- Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA. .,Center for Autism and Related Disorders, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD, USA.
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20
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Maleninska K, Janikova M, Radostova D, Vojtechova I, Petrasek T, Kirdajova D, Anderova M, Svoboda J, Stuchlik A. Selective deficits in attentional set-shifting in mice induced by maternal immune activation with poly(I:C). Behav Brain Res 2022; 419:113678. [PMID: 34838932 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2021.113678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2021] [Revised: 11/15/2021] [Accepted: 11/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Maternal immune activation has been identified as a significant risk factor for schizophrenia. Using rodent models, past work has demonstrated various behavioral and brain impairments in offspring after immune-activating events. We applied 5 mg/kg of poly(I:C) on gestation day 9 to pregnant mouse dams, whose offspring were then stressed during puberty. We show impairments in attentional set-shifting in a T-maze, and a decreased number of parvalbumin-positive interneurons in the hippocampus as a result of peripubertal stress specifically in females.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristyna Maleninska
- Laboratory of the Neurophysiology of Memory, Institute of Physiology of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Videnska 1083, Prague 14220, Czech Republic; Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic; National Institute of Mental Health, Topolova 748, Klecany, Czech Republic
| | - Martina Janikova
- Laboratory of the Neurophysiology of Memory, Institute of Physiology of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Videnska 1083, Prague 14220, Czech Republic; First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Dominika Radostova
- Laboratory of the Neurophysiology of Memory, Institute of Physiology of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Videnska 1083, Prague 14220, Czech Republic
| | - Iveta Vojtechova
- Laboratory of the Neurophysiology of Memory, Institute of Physiology of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Videnska 1083, Prague 14220, Czech Republic; National Institute of Mental Health, Topolova 748, Klecany, Czech Republic
| | - Tomas Petrasek
- Laboratory of the Neurophysiology of Memory, Institute of Physiology of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Videnska 1083, Prague 14220, Czech Republic; National Institute of Mental Health, Topolova 748, Klecany, Czech Republic
| | - Denisa Kirdajova
- Institute of Experimental Medicine of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Videnska 1083, Prague 14220, Czech Republic
| | - Miroslava Anderova
- Institute of Experimental Medicine of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Videnska 1083, Prague 14220, Czech Republic
| | - Jan Svoboda
- Laboratory of the Neurophysiology of Memory, Institute of Physiology of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Videnska 1083, Prague 14220, Czech Republic
| | - Ales Stuchlik
- Laboratory of the Neurophysiology of Memory, Institute of Physiology of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Videnska 1083, Prague 14220, Czech Republic.
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21
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Fonseca PAS, Schenkel FS, Cánovas A. Genome-wide association study using haplotype libraries and repeated measures model to identify candidate genomic regions for stillbirth in Holstein cattle. J Dairy Sci 2022; 105:1314-1326. [PMID: 34998559 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2021-20936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2021] [Accepted: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Reduced fertility is one of the main causes of economic losses on dairy farms, resulting in economic losses estimated at $938 per stillbirth case in Holstein herds. The identification of genomic regions associated with stillbirth could help to develop better management and breeding strategies aimed to reduce the frequency of undesirable gestation outcomes. Here, 10,570 cows and 50,541 birth records were used to perform a haplotype-based GWAS. A total of 41 significantly associated pseudo-SNPs (haplotypes within haplotype blocks converted to a binary classification) were identified after Bonferroni adjustment for multiple tests. A total of 117 positional candidate genes were annotated within or close (in a 200-kb interval) to significant pseudo-SNPs (haplotype blocks). The guilt-by-association functional prioritization identified 31 potential functional candidate genes for reproductive performance out of the 117 positional candidate genes annotated. These genes play crucial roles in biological processes associated with pregnancy persistence, fetus development, immune response, among others. These results helped us to better understand the genetic basis of stillbirth in dairy cattle and may be useful for the prediction of stillbirth in Holstein cattle, helping to reduce the related economic losses caused by this phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- P A S Fonseca
- Centre for Genetic Improvement of Livestock, Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - F S Schenkel
- Centre for Genetic Improvement of Livestock, Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - A Cánovas
- Centre for Genetic Improvement of Livestock, Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada.
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22
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Murlanova K, Begmatova D, Weber-Stadlbauer U, Meyer U, Pletnikov M, Pinhasov A. Double trouble: Prenatal immune activation in stress sensitive offspring. Brain Behav Immun 2022; 99:3-8. [PMID: 34547401 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2021.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2021] [Revised: 09/03/2021] [Accepted: 09/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Viral infections during pregnancy are associated with increased incidence of psychiatric disorders in offspring. The pathological outcomes of viral infection appear to be caused by the deleterious effects of innate immune response-associated factors on development of the fetus, which predispose the offspring to pathological conditions in adulthood. The negative impact of viral infections varies substantially between pregnancies. Here, we explored whether differential stress sensitivity underlies the high heterogeneity of immune reactivity and whether this may influence the pathological consequences of maternal immune activation. Using mouse models of social dominance (Dom) and submissiveness (Sub), which possess innate features of stress resilience and vulnerability, respectively, we identified differential immune reactivity to the synthetic analogue of viral double-stranded RNA, Poly(I:C), in Sub and Dom nulliparous and pregnant females. More specifically, we found that Sub females showed an exacerbated pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokine response to Poly(I:C) as compared with Dom females. Sub offspring born to Sub mothers (stress sensitive offspring) showed enhanced locomotory response to the non-competitive NMDA antagonist, MK-801, which was potentiated by prenatal Poly(I:C) exposure. Our findings suggest that inherited stress sensitivity may lead to functional changes in glutamatergic signaling, which in turn is further exacerbated by prenatal exposure to viral-like infection. The maternal immunome seems to play a crucial role in these observed phenomena.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kateryna Murlanova
- Department of Molecular Biology and Adelson School of Medicine, Ariel University, Ariel, Israel; Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Dilorom Begmatova
- Department of Molecular Biology and Adelson School of Medicine, Ariel University, Ariel, Israel
| | - Ulrike Weber-Stadlbauer
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zurich-Vetsuisse, Zurich, Switzerland; Neuroscience Center Zurich, University of Zurich and ETH, Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Urs Meyer
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zurich-Vetsuisse, Zurich, Switzerland; Neuroscience Center Zurich, University of Zurich and ETH, Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Mikhail Pletnikov
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Albert Pinhasov
- Department of Molecular Biology and Adelson School of Medicine, Ariel University, Ariel, Israel.
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23
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Mirabella F, Desiato G, Mancinelli S, Fossati G, Rasile M, Morini R, Markicevic M, Grimm C, Amegandjin C, Termanini A, Peano C, Kunderfranco P, di Cristo G, Zerbi V, Menna E, Lodato S, Matteoli M, Pozzi D. Prenatal interleukin 6 elevation increases glutamatergic synapse density and disrupts hippocampal connectivity in offspring. Immunity 2021; 54:2611-2631.e8. [PMID: 34758338 PMCID: PMC8585508 DOI: 10.1016/j.immuni.2021.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2020] [Revised: 04/24/2021] [Accepted: 10/07/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Early prenatal inflammatory conditions are thought to be a risk factor for different neurodevelopmental disorders. Maternal interleukin-6 (IL-6) elevation during pregnancy causes abnormal behavior in offspring, but whether these defects result from altered synaptic developmental trajectories remains unclear. Here we showed that transient IL-6 elevation via injection into pregnant mice or developing embryos enhanced glutamatergic synapses and led to overall brain hyperconnectivity in offspring into adulthood. IL-6 activated synaptogenesis gene programs in glutamatergic neurons and required the transcription factor STAT3 and expression of the RGS4 gene. The STAT3-RGS4 pathway was also activated in neonatal brains during poly(I:C)-induced maternal immune activation, which mimics viral infection during pregnancy. These findings indicate that IL-6 elevation at early developmental stages is sufficient to exert a long-lasting effect on glutamatergic synaptogenesis and brain connectivity, providing a mechanistic framework for the association between prenatal inflammatory events and brain neurodevelopmental disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filippo Mirabella
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Via Rita Levi Montalcini 4, 20090 Pieve Emanuele, Milan, Italy; IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, via Manzoni 56, 20089 Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Genni Desiato
- IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, via Manzoni 56, 20089 Rozzano, Milan, Italy; Institute of Neuroscience - National Research Council, 20139 Milan, Italy
| | - Sara Mancinelli
- IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, via Manzoni 56, 20089 Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Giuliana Fossati
- IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, via Manzoni 56, 20089 Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Marco Rasile
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Via Rita Levi Montalcini 4, 20090 Pieve Emanuele, Milan, Italy
| | - Raffaella Morini
- IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, via Manzoni 56, 20089 Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Marija Markicevic
- Neuroscience Center Zürich, ETH Zürich and University of Zürich, Zürich 8057, Switzerland
| | - Christina Grimm
- Neuroscience Center Zürich, ETH Zürich and University of Zürich, Zürich 8057, Switzerland
| | - Clara Amegandjin
- Department of Neurosciences, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada; CHU Sainte-Justine Research Center, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Alberto Termanini
- Bioinformatic Unit, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, 20089 Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Clelia Peano
- Institute of Genetic and Biomedical Research, UoS Milan, National Research Council, 20089 Rozzano, Milan, Italy; Genomic Unit, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, 20089 Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Paolo Kunderfranco
- Bioinformatic Unit, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, 20089 Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Graziella di Cristo
- Department of Neurosciences, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada; CHU Sainte-Justine Research Center, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Valerio Zerbi
- Neuroscience Center Zürich, ETH Zürich and University of Zürich, Zürich 8057, Switzerland; Neural Control of Movement Lab, Department of Health Sciences and Technology, ETH Zürich, Zürich 8057, Switzerland
| | - Elisabetta Menna
- IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, via Manzoni 56, 20089 Rozzano, Milan, Italy; Institute of Neuroscience - National Research Council, 20139 Milan, Italy
| | - Simona Lodato
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Via Rita Levi Montalcini 4, 20090 Pieve Emanuele, Milan, Italy; IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, via Manzoni 56, 20089 Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Michela Matteoli
- IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, via Manzoni 56, 20089 Rozzano, Milan, Italy; Institute of Neuroscience - National Research Council, 20139 Milan, Italy.
| | - Davide Pozzi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Via Rita Levi Montalcini 4, 20090 Pieve Emanuele, Milan, Italy; IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, via Manzoni 56, 20089 Rozzano, Milan, Italy.
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24
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Guerrin CGJ, Doorduin J, Sommer IE, de Vries EFJ. The dual hit hypothesis of schizophrenia: Evidence from animal models. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2021; 131:1150-1168. [PMID: 34715148 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2021.10.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2021] [Revised: 10/21/2021] [Accepted: 10/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Schizophrenia is a heterogeneous psychiatric disorder, which can severely impact social and professional functioning. Epidemiological and clinical studies show that schizophrenia has a multifactorial aetiology comprising genetic and environmental risk factors. Although several risk factors have been identified, it is still not clear how they result in schizophrenia. This knowledge gap, however, can be investigated in animal studies. In this review, we summarise animal studies regarding molecular and cellular mechanisms through which genetic and environmental factors may affect brain development, ultimately causing schizophrenia. Preclinical studies suggest that early environmental risk factors can affect the immune, GABAergic, glutamatergic, or dopaminergic system and thus increase the susceptibility to another risk factor later in life. A second insult, like social isolation, stress, or drug abuse, can further disrupt these systems and the interactions between them, leading to behavioural abnormalities. Surprisingly, first insults like maternal infection and early maternal separation can also have protective effects. Single gene mutations associated with schizophrenia did not have a major impact on the susceptibility to subsequent environmental hits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cyprien G J Guerrin
- Department of Nuclear Medicine and Medical Imaging, University of Groningen, University Medical Centre Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713, GZ, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Janine Doorduin
- Department of Nuclear Medicine and Medical Imaging, University of Groningen, University Medical Centre Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713, GZ, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Iris E Sommer
- Department of Biomedical Sciences of Cells and Systems, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713, GZ, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Erik F J de Vries
- Department of Nuclear Medicine and Medical Imaging, University of Groningen, University Medical Centre Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713, GZ, Groningen, the Netherlands.
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25
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Haddad FL, Lu L, Baines KJ, Schmid S. Sensory filtering disruption caused by poly I:C - Timing of exposure and other experimental considerations. Brain Behav Immun Health 2021; 9:100156. [PMID: 34589898 PMCID: PMC8474281 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbih.2020.100156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2020] [Accepted: 10/06/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Maternal immune activation (MIA) in response to infection during pregnancy has been linked through various epidemiological and preclinical studies to an increased risk of neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and schizophrenia in exposed offspring. Sensory filtering disruptions occur in both of these disorders and are typically measured using the acoustic startle response in both humans and rodents. Our study focuses on characterizing the baseline reactivity, habituation and prepulse inhibition (PPI) of the acoustic startle response following exposure to MIA. We induced MIA using polyinosinic: polycytidylic acid (poly I:C) at gestational day (GD) 9.5 or 14.5, and we tested sensory filtering phenotypes in adolescent and adult offspring. Our results show that startle reactivity was robustly increased in adult GD9.5 but not GD14.5 poly I:C offspring. In contrast to some previous studies, we found no consistent changes in short-term habituation, long-term habituation or prepulse inhibition of startle. Our study highlights the importance of MIA exposure timing and discusses sensory filtering phenotypes as they relate to ASD, schizophrenia and the poly I:C MIA model. Moreover, we analyze and discuss the potential impact of between- and within-litter variability on behavioural findings in poly I:C studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faraj L Haddad
- Anatomy & Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, The University of Western Ontario, Canada
| | - Lu Lu
- Anatomy & Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, The University of Western Ontario, Canada.,Department of Neurology, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Kelly J Baines
- Anatomy & Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, The University of Western Ontario, Canada
| | - Susanne Schmid
- Anatomy & Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, The University of Western Ontario, Canada
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26
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Hameete BC, Fernández-Calleja JM, de Groot MW, Oppewal TR, Tiemessen MM, Hogenkamp A, de Vries RB, Groenink L. The poly(I:C)-induced maternal immune activation model; a systematic review and meta-analysis of cytokine levels in the offspring. Brain Behav Immun Health 2021; 11:100192. [PMID: 34589729 PMCID: PMC8474626 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbih.2020.100192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2020] [Accepted: 12/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The maternal polyinosinic:polycytidylic acid (poly(I:C)) animal model is frequently used to study how maternal immune activation may impact neuro development in the offspring. Here, we present the first systematic review and meta-analysis on the effects of maternal poly(I:C) injection on immune mediators in the offspring and provide an openly accessible systematic map of the data including methodological characteristics. Pubmed and EMBASE were searched for relevant publications, yielding 45 unique papers that met inclusion criteria. We extracted data on immune outcomes and methodological characteristics, and assessed the risk of bias. The descriptive summary showed that most studies reported an absence of effect, with an equal number of studies reporting an increase or decrease in the immune mediator being studied. Meta-analysis showed increased IL-6 concentrations in the offspring of poly(I:C) exposed mothers. This effect appeared larger prenatally than post-weaning. Furthermore, poly(I:C) administration during mid-gestation was associated with higher IL-6 concentrations in the offspring. Maternal poly(I:C) induced changes in IL-1β, Il-10 and TNF-α concentrations were small and could not be associated with age of offspring, gestational period or sampling location. Finally, quality of reporting of potential measures to minimize bias was low, which stresses the importance of adherence to publication guidelines. Since neurodevelopmental disorders in humans tend to be associated with lifelong changes in cytokine concentrations, the absence of these effects as identified in this systematic review may suggest that combining the model with other etiological factors in future studies may provide further insight in the mechanisms through which maternal immune activation affects neurodevelopment. Long-term effects of maternal poly(I:C) on immune mediators in the offspring appear limited. Prenatal measurements and mid gestation poly(I:C) injection are associated with increases in IL-6 concentrations. Variety in methodological conduct hampers identification of key elements that affect cytokine concentrations. The quality of reporting of potential measures to minimize bias is poor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bart C. Hameete
- Department of Pharmacology, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences (UIPS), Utrecht University, Universiteitsweg 99, Utrecht, 3584 CG, the Netherlands
| | - José M.S. Fernández-Calleja
- Department of Pharmacology, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences (UIPS), Utrecht University, Universiteitsweg 99, Utrecht, 3584 CG, the Netherlands
| | - Martje W.G.D.M. de Groot
- Department of Pharmacology, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences (UIPS), Utrecht University, Universiteitsweg 99, Utrecht, 3584 CG, the Netherlands
| | - Titia Rixt Oppewal
- University College Utrecht (UCU), Campusplein 1, Utrecht, 3584 ED, the Netherlands
- Stratingh Institute for Chemistry, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 4, Groningen, 9747 AG, the Netherlands
| | - Machteld M. Tiemessen
- Research & Innovation, GCoE Immunology, Danone Nutricia Research, Uppsalalaan 12, Utrecht, 3584 CT, the Netherlands
| | - Astrid Hogenkamp
- Department of Pharmacology, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences (UIPS), Utrecht University, Universiteitsweg 99, Utrecht, 3584 CG, the Netherlands
| | - Rob B.M. de Vries
- SYstematic Review Center for Laboratory (Animal) Experimentation, Department for Health Evidence, Radboud University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein zuid 10, Nijmegen, 6525 GA, the Netherlands
| | - Lucianne Groenink
- Department of Pharmacology, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences (UIPS), Utrecht University, Universiteitsweg 99, Utrecht, 3584 CG, the Netherlands
- Corresponding author.
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27
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Rahimian R, Wakid M, O'Leary LA, Mechawar N. The emerging tale of microglia in psychiatric disorders. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2021; 131:1-29. [PMID: 34536460 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2021.09.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2021] [Revised: 08/18/2021] [Accepted: 09/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
As the professional phagocytes of the brain, microglia orchestrate the immunological response and play an increasingly important role in maintaining homeostatic brain functions. Microglia are activated by pathological events or slight alterations in brain homeostasis. This activation is dependent on the context and type of stressor or pathology. Through secretion of cytokines, chemokines and growth factors, microglia can strongly influence the response to a stressor and can, therefore, determine the pathological outcome. Psychopathologies have repeatedly been associated with long-lasting priming and sensitization of cerebral microglia. This review focuses on the diversity of microglial phenotype and function in health and psychiatric disease. We first discuss the diverse homeostatic functions performed by microglia and then elaborate on context-specific spatial and temporal microglial heterogeneity. Subsequently, we summarize microglia involvement in psychopathologies, namely major depressive disorder, schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, with a particular focus on post-mortem studies. Finally, we postulate microglia as a promising novel therapeutic target in psychiatry through antidepressant and antipsychotic treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reza Rahimian
- McGill Group for Suicide Studies, Douglas Mental Health University Institute, Verdun, QC, Canada
| | - Marina Wakid
- McGill Group for Suicide Studies, Douglas Mental Health University Institute, Verdun, QC, Canada; Integrated Program in Neuroscience, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Liam Anuj O'Leary
- McGill Group for Suicide Studies, Douglas Mental Health University Institute, Verdun, QC, Canada; Integrated Program in Neuroscience, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Naguib Mechawar
- McGill Group for Suicide Studies, Douglas Mental Health University Institute, Verdun, QC, Canada; Integrated Program in Neuroscience, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada.
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28
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Guma E, Bordignon PDC, Devenyi GA, Gallino D, Anastassiadis C, Cvetkovska V, Barry AD, Snook E, Germann J, Greenwood CMT, Misic B, Bagot RC, Chakravarty MM. Early or Late Gestational Exposure to Maternal Immune Activation Alters Neurodevelopmental Trajectories in Mice: An Integrated Neuroimaging, Behavioral, and Transcriptional Study. Biol Psychiatry 2021; 90:328-341. [PMID: 34053674 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2021.03.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2021] [Revised: 02/23/2021] [Accepted: 03/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Exposure to maternal immune activation (MIA) in utero is a risk factor for neurodevelopmental disorders later in life. The impact of the gestational timing of MIA exposure on downstream development remains unclear. METHODS We characterized neurodevelopmental trajectories of mice exposed to the viral mimetic poly I:C (polyinosinic:polycytidylic acid) either on gestational day 9 (early) or on day 17 (late) using longitudinal structural magnetic resonance imaging from weaning to adulthood. Using multivariate methods, we related neuroimaging and behavioral variables for the time of greatest alteration (adolescence/early adulthood) and identified regions for further investigation using RNA sequencing. RESULTS Early MIA exposure was associated with accelerated brain volume increases in adolescence/early adulthood that normalized in later adulthood in the striatum, hippocampus, and cingulate cortex. Similarly, alterations in anxiety-like, stereotypic, and sensorimotor gating behaviors observed in adolescence normalized in adulthood. MIA exposure in late gestation had less impact on anatomical and behavioral profiles. Multivariate maps associated anxiety-like, social, and sensorimotor gating deficits with volume of the dorsal and ventral hippocampus and anterior cingulate cortex, among others. The most transcriptional changes were observed in the dorsal hippocampus, with genes enriched for fibroblast growth factor regulation, autistic behaviors, inflammatory pathways, and microRNA regulation. CONCLUSIONS Leveraging an integrated hypothesis- and data-driven approach linking brain-behavior alterations to the transcriptome, we found that MIA timing differentially affects offspring development. Exposure in late gestation leads to subthreshold deficits, whereas exposure in early gestation perturbs brain development mechanisms implicated in neurodevelopmental disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Guma
- Integrated Program in Neuroscience, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Computational Brain Imaging Lab, Cerebral Imaging Center, Douglas Mental Health University Institute, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
| | - Pedro do Couto Bordignon
- Department of Psychology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Ludmer Center for Neuroinformatics and Mental Health, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Gabriel A Devenyi
- Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Computational Brain Imaging Lab, Cerebral Imaging Center, Douglas Mental Health University Institute, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Daniel Gallino
- Computational Brain Imaging Lab, Cerebral Imaging Center, Douglas Mental Health University Institute, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Chloe Anastassiadis
- Computational Brain Imaging Lab, Cerebral Imaging Center, Douglas Mental Health University Institute, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Institute of Medical Science & Collaborative Program in Neuroscience, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Amadou D Barry
- Departments of Human Genetics and Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Occupational Health, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Ludmer Center for Neuroinformatics and Mental Health, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Emily Snook
- Computational Brain Imaging Lab, Cerebral Imaging Center, Douglas Mental Health University Institute, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jurgen Germann
- Computational Brain Imaging Lab, Cerebral Imaging Center, Douglas Mental Health University Institute, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Celia M T Greenwood
- Gerald Bronfman Department of Oncology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Jewish General Hospital, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Departments of Human Genetics and Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Occupational Health, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Ludmer Center for Neuroinformatics and Mental Health, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Bratislav Misic
- Montreal Neurological Institute, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Rosemary C Bagot
- Department of Psychology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Ludmer Center for Neuroinformatics and Mental Health, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - M Mallar Chakravarty
- Integrated Program in Neuroscience, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Department of Biological and Biomedical Engineering, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Computational Brain Imaging Lab, Cerebral Imaging Center, Douglas Mental Health University Institute, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
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29
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Peculiarities of the Composition of Peripheral Immune Cells and Cytokine Profile in Brain Structures in Mutant DISC1-L100P Mice. Bull Exp Biol Med 2021; 171:347-351. [PMID: 34297294 DOI: 10.1007/s10517-021-05225-0] [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: 10/23/2020] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Intact Disc1-L100P mice carrying a point mutation DISC1Rgsc1390 in the second exon of the DISC1 gene (genetic model of schizophrenia) differ from the parental C57BL/6NCrl strain by higher content of CD3+ T cells and reduced number of CD19+B cells in the peripheral blood and spleen. Analysis of T cell subpopulations revealed an increase in the number of CD3+CD4+ T helpers in the blood of mutant mice and a decrease in the level of CD3+CD8+ suppressor/cytotoxic T cells and CD3+CD4+CD25+ T-regulatory cells. The distribution pattern of inflammatory (IL-1β, IL-2, IL-6, IL-17, IFNγ, and TNFα) and anti-inflammatory (IL-4, IL-10) cytokines specific for Disc1-L100P mice was revealed in the brain structures involved in the pathogenesis of schizophrenia. A possible implication of immune mechanisms in the development of schizophrenia-like endophenotype of Disc1-L100P mice is discussed.
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30
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Woods RM, Lorusso JM, Potter HG, Neill JC, Glazier JD, Hager R. Maternal immune activation in rodent models: A systematic review of neurodevelopmental changes in gene expression and epigenetic modulation in the offspring brain. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2021; 129:389-421. [PMID: 34280428 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2021.07.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Revised: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 07/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Maternal immune activation (mIA) during pregnancy is hypothesised to disrupt offspring neurodevelopment and predispose offspring to neurodevelopmental disorders such as schizophrenia. Rodent models of mIA have explored possible mechanisms underlying this paradigm and provide a vital tool for preclinical research. However, a comprehensive analysis of the molecular changes that occur in mIA-models is lacking, hindering identification of robust clinical targets. This systematic review assesses mIA-driven transcriptomic and epigenomic alterations in specific offspring brain regions. Across 118 studies, we focus on 88 candidate genes and show replicated changes in expression in critical functional areas, including elevated inflammatory markers, and reduced myelin and GABAergic signalling proteins. Further, disturbed epigenetic markers at nine of these genes support mIA-driven epigenetic modulation of transcription. Overall, our results demonstrate that current outcome measures have direct relevance for the hypothesised pathology of schizophrenia and emphasise the importance of mIA-models in contributing to the understanding of biological pathways impacted by mIA and the discovery of new drug targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca M Woods
- Division of Evolution & Genomic Sciences, School of Biological Sciences, Manchester Academic Health Science Center, Faculty of Biology, Medicine & Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, M13 9PT, United Kingdom.
| | - Jarred M Lorusso
- Division of Evolution & Genomic Sciences, School of Biological Sciences, Manchester Academic Health Science Center, Faculty of Biology, Medicine & Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, M13 9PT, United Kingdom
| | - Harry G Potter
- Division of Evolution & Genomic Sciences, School of Biological Sciences, Manchester Academic Health Science Center, Faculty of Biology, Medicine & Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, M13 9PT, United Kingdom
| | - Joanna C Neill
- Division of Pharmacy & Optometry, School of Health Sciences, Manchester Academic Health Science Center, Faculty of Biology, Medicine & Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, M13 9PL, United Kingdom
| | - Jocelyn D Glazier
- Division of Evolution & Genomic Sciences, School of Biological Sciences, Manchester Academic Health Science Center, Faculty of Biology, Medicine & Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, M13 9PT, United Kingdom
| | - Reinmar Hager
- Division of Evolution & Genomic Sciences, School of Biological Sciences, Manchester Academic Health Science Center, Faculty of Biology, Medicine & Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, M13 9PT, United Kingdom
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31
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Guo L, Xiao P, Zhang X, Yang Y, Yang M, Wang T, Lu H, Tian H, Wang H, Liu J. Inulin ameliorates schizophrenia via modulation of the gut microbiota and anti-inflammation in mice. Food Funct 2021; 12:1156-1175. [PMID: 33432310 DOI: 10.1039/d0fo02778b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The microbiome-gut-brain (MGB) axis, which regulates neurological and cognitive functions, plays an essential role in schizophrenia (SCZ) progression. Dietary inulin could be a novel strategy for the treatment of SCZ due to its modulating effects on the gut microbiota. In this study, the effects of inulin on mice with SCZ were studied. As indicated by the behavioural tests, expression of neurotransmitters, inflammatory indicators, and brain morphology, inulin administration ameliorated aberrant behaviours (locomotor hypoactivity, anxiety disorders and depressive behaviours, and impaired learning and spatial recognition memory) and effectively reduced neuroinflammation and neuronal damage. In addition, inulin improved intestinal integrity and permeability, as indicated by the elevated expression of tight junction proteins (p < 0.05). The results of 16S rRNA sequencing and analysis showed that inulin increased the abundance of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium, which were negatively correlated with 5-hydroxytryptamine and inflammatory cytokines and positively correlated with brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). Inulin caused a reduction in Akkermansia that was positively correlated with inflammatory cytokines and negatively correlated with BDNF. These results suggested that dietary inulin modulated the gut microbiota and exerted anti-inflammatory effects in mice though the MGB axis, which further ameliorated SCZ. Therefore, the results of this study provide a potential explanation for inulin intervention in the treatment of SCZ.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Guo
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750004, Ningxia, China.
| | - Peilun Xiao
- Department of Anatomy, Weifang Medical University, Weifang 261042, Shandong, China.
| | - Xiaoxia Zhang
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750004, Ningxia, China.
| | - Yang Yang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750004, Ningxia, China.
| | - Miao Yang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750004, Ningxia, China.
| | - Ting Wang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750004, Ningxia, China.
| | - Haixia Lu
- Clinical Medical College, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750004, Ningxia, China.
| | - Hongyan Tian
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750004, Ningxia, China.
| | - Hao Wang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750004, Ningxia, China.
| | - Juan Liu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750004, Ningxia, China.
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Xu X, Song L, Hanganu-Opatz IL. Knock-Down of Hippocampal DISC1 in Immune-Challenged Mice Impairs the Prefrontal-Hippocampal Coupling and the Cognitive Performance Throughout Development. Cereb Cortex 2021; 31:1240-1258. [PMID: 33037815 PMCID: PMC7786359 DOI: 10.1093/cercor/bhaa291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2020] [Revised: 08/21/2020] [Accepted: 09/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Disrupted-in-schizophrenia 1 (DISC1) gene represents an intracellular hub of developmental processes. When combined with early environmental stressors, such as maternal immune activation, but not in the absence of thereof, whole-brain DISC1 knock-down leads to memory and executive deficits as result of impaired prefrontal–hippocampal communication throughout development. While synaptic dysfunction in neonatal prefrontal cortex (PFC) has been recently identified as one source of abnormal long-range coupling, the contribution of hippocampus (HP) is still unknown. Here, we aim to fill this knowledge gap by combining in vivo electrophysiology and optogenetics with morphological and behavioral assessment of immune-challenged mice with DISC1 knock-down either in the whole brain (GE) or restricted to pyramidal neurons in hippocampal CA1 area (GHPE). We found abnormal network activity, sharp-waves, and neuronal firing in CA1 that complement the deficits in upper layer of PFC. Moreover, optogenetic activating CA1 pyramidal neurons fails to activate the prefrontal local circuits. These deficits that persist till prejuvenile age relate to dendrite sparsification and loss of spines of CA1 pyramidal neurons. As a long-term consequence, DISC1 knock-down in HP leads to poorer recognition memory at prejuvenile age. Thus, DISC1-controlled developmental processes in HP in immune-challenged mice are critical for circuit function and cognitive behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaxia Xu
- Institute of Developmental Neurophysiology, Center for Molecular Neurobiology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20251 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Lingzhen Song
- Institute of Developmental Neurophysiology, Center for Molecular Neurobiology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20251 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Ileana L Hanganu-Opatz
- Institute of Developmental Neurophysiology, Center for Molecular Neurobiology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20251 Hamburg, Germany
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Transplantation of microbiota from drug-free patients with schizophrenia causes schizophrenia-like abnormal behaviors and dysregulated kynurenine metabolism in mice. Mol Psychiatry 2020; 25:2905-2918. [PMID: 31391545 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-019-0475-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 169] [Impact Index Per Article: 42.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2019] [Revised: 05/28/2019] [Accepted: 06/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Accumulating evidence suggests that gut microbiota plays a role in the pathogenesis of schizophrenia via the microbiota-gut-brain axis. This study sought to investigate whether transplantation of fecal microbiota from drug-free patients with schizophrenia into specific pathogen-free mice could cause schizophrenia-like behavioral abnormalities. The results revealed that transplantation of fecal microbiota from schizophrenic patients into antibiotic-treated mice caused behavioral abnormalities such as psychomotor hyperactivity, impaired learning and memory in the recipient animals. These mice also showed elevation of the kynurenine-kynurenic acid pathway of tryptophan degradation in both periphery and brain, as well as increased basal extracellular dopamine in prefrontal cortex and 5-hydroxytryptamine in hippocampus, compared with their counterparts receiving feces from healthy controls. Furthermore, colonic luminal filtrates from the mice transplanted with patients' fecal microbiota increased both kynurenic acid synthesis and kynurenine aminotransferase II activity in cultured hepatocytes and forebrain cortical slices. Sixty species of donor-derived bacteria showed significant difference between the mice colonized with the patients' and the controls' fecal microbiota, highlighting 78 differentially enriched functional modules including tryptophan biosynthesis function. In conclusion, our study suggests that the abnormalities in the composition of gut microbiota contribute to the pathogenesis of schizophrenia partially through the manipulation of tryptophan-kynurenine metabolism.
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Monocytic Infiltrates Contribute to Autistic-like Behaviors in a Two-Hit Model of Neurodevelopmental Defects. J Neurosci 2020; 40:9386-9400. [PMID: 33127853 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.1171-20.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2020] [Revised: 10/19/2020] [Accepted: 10/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Growing evidence suggests that early-life interactions among genetic, immune, and environment factors may modulate neurodevelopment and cause psycho-cognitive deficits. Maternal immune activation (MIA) induces autism-like behaviors in offspring, but how it interplays with perinatal brain injury (especially birth asphyxia or hypoxia ischemia [HI]) is unclear. Herein we compared the effects of MIA (injection of poly[I:C] to dam at gestational day 12.5), HI at postnatal day 10, and the combined MIA/HI insult in murine offspring of both sexes. We found that MIA induced autistic-like behaviors without microglial activation but amplified post-HI NFκB signaling, pro-inflammatory responses, and brain injury in offspring. Conversely, HI neither provoked autistic-like behaviors nor concealed them in the MIA offspring. Instead, the dual MIA/HI insult added autistic-like behaviors with diminished synaptic density and reduction of autism-related PSD-95 and Homer-1 in the hippocampus, which were missing in the singular MIA or HI insult. Further, the dual MIA/HI insult enhanced the brain influx of Otx2-positive monocytes that are associated with an increase of perineuronal net-enwrapped parvalbumin neurons. Using CCR2-CreER mice to distinguish monocytes from the resident microglia, we found that the monocytic infiltrates gradually adopted a ramified morphology and expressed the microglial signature genes (Tmem119, P2RY12, and Sall1) in post-MIA/HI brains, with some continuing to express the proinflammatory cytokine TNFα. Finally, genetic or pharmacological obstruction of monocytic influx significantly reduced perineuronal net-enwrapped parvalbumin neurons and autistic-like behaviors in MIA/HI offspring. Together, these results suggest a pathologic role of monocytes in the two-hit (immune plus neonatal HI) model of neurodevelopmental defects.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT In autism spectrum disorders (ASDs), prenatal infection or maternal immune activation (MIA) may act as a primer for multiple genetic and environmental factors to impair neurodevelopment. This study examined whether MIA cooperates with neonatal cerebral hypoxia ischemia to promote ASD-like aberrations in mice using a novel two-hit model. It was shown that the combination of MIA and neonatal hypoxia ischemia produces autistic-like behaviors in the offspring, and has synergistic effects in inducing neuroinflammation, monocytic infiltrates, synaptic defects, and perineuronal nets. Furthermore, genetic or pharmacological intervention of the MCP1-CCR2 chemoattractant pathway markedly reduced monocytic infiltrates, perineuronal nets, and autistic-like behaviors. These results suggest reciprocal escalation of immune and neonatal brain injury in a subset of ASD that may benefit from monocyte-targeted treatments.
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Maternal Immunity in Autism Spectrum Disorders: Questions of Causality, Validity, and Specificity. J Clin Med 2020; 9:jcm9082590. [PMID: 32785127 PMCID: PMC7464885 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9082590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2020] [Revised: 08/05/2020] [Accepted: 08/06/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are complex neurodevelopmental disorders with unknown heterogeneous aetiologies. Epidemiological studies have found an association between maternal infection and development of ASD in the offspring, and clinical findings reveal a state of immune dysregulation in the pre- and postnatal period of affected subjects. Maternal immune activation (MIA) has been proposed to mediate this association by altering fetal neurodevelopment and leading to autism. Although animal models have supported a causal link between MIA and development of ASD, their validity needs to be explored. Moreover, considering that only a small proportion of affected offspring develop autism, and that MIA has been implicated in related diseases such as schizophrenia, a key unsolved question is how disease specificity and phenotypic outcome are determined. Here, we have integrated preclinical and clinical evidence, including the use of animal models for establishing causality, to explore the role of maternal infections in ASD. A proposed priming/multi-hit model may offer insights into the clinical heterogeneity of ASD, its convergence with related disorders, and therapeutic strategies.
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Haddad FL, Patel SV, Schmid S. Maternal Immune Activation by Poly I:C as a preclinical Model for Neurodevelopmental Disorders: A focus on Autism and Schizophrenia. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2020; 113:546-567. [PMID: 32320814 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2020.04.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2019] [Revised: 01/28/2020] [Accepted: 04/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Maternal immune activation (MIA) in response to a viral infection during early and mid-gestation has been linked through various epidemiological studies to a higher risk for the child to develop autism or schizophrenia-related symptoms.. This has led to the establishment of the pathogen-free poly I:C-induced MIA animal model for neurodevelopmental disorders, which shows relatively high construct and face validity. Depending on the experimental variables, particularly the timing of poly I:C administration, different behavioural and molecular phenotypes have been described that relate to specific symptoms of neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism spectrum disorder and/or schizophrenia. We here review and summarize epidemiological evidence for the effects of maternal infection and immune activation, as well as major findings in different poly I:C MIA models with a focus on poly I:C exposure timing, behavioural and molecular changes in the offspring, and characteristics of the model that relate it to autism spectrum disorder and schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faraj L Haddad
- Anatomy & Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, The University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada.
| | - Salonee V Patel
- Anatomy & Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, The University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada.
| | - Susanne Schmid
- Anatomy & Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, The University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada.
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37
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Bauman MD, Van de Water J. Translational opportunities in the prenatal immune environment: Promises and limitations of the maternal immune activation model. Neurobiol Dis 2020; 141:104864. [PMID: 32278881 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2020.104864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2019] [Revised: 03/03/2020] [Accepted: 04/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The prenatal environment, and in particular, the maternal-fetal immune environment, has emerged as a targeted area of research for central nervous system (CNS) diseases with neurodevelopmental origins. Converging evidence from both clinical and preclinical research indicates that changes in the maternal gestational immune environment can alter fetal brain development and increase the risk for certain neurodevelopmental disorders. Here we focus on the translational potential of one prenatal animal model - the maternal immune activation (MIA) model. This model stems from the observation that a subset of pregnant women who are exposed to infection during pregnancy have an increased risk of giving birth to a child who will later be diagnosed with a neurodevelopmental disorder, such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or schizophrenia (SZ). The preclinical MIA model provides a system in which to explore causal relationships, identify underlying neurobiological mechanisms, and, ultimately, develop novel therapeutic interventions and preventative strategies. In this review, we will highlight converging evidence from clinical and preclinical research that links changes in the maternal-fetal immune environment with lasting changes in offspring brain and behavioral development. We will then explore the promises and limitations of the MIA model as a translational tool to develop novel therapeutic interventions. As the translational potential of the MIA model has been the focus of several excellent review articles, here we will focus on what is perhaps the least well developed area of MIA model research - novel preventative strategies and therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa D Bauman
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, Davis, United States of America; California National Primate Research Center, University of California, Davis, United States of America; The MIND Institute, University of California, Davis, United States of America.
| | - Judy Van de Water
- The MIND Institute, University of California, Davis, United States of America; Rheumatology/Allergy and Clinical Immunology, University of California, Davis, United States of America
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Gyertyán I. How can preclinical cognitive research further neuropsychiatric drug discovery? Chances and challenges. Expert Opin Drug Discov 2020; 15:659-670. [DOI: 10.1080/17460441.2020.1739645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- István Gyertyán
- Cognitive Translational Behavioural Pharmacology Group, Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
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39
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Aguilar-Valles A, Rodrigue B, Matta-Camacho E. Maternal Immune Activation and the Development of Dopaminergic Neurotransmission of the Offspring: Relevance for Schizophrenia and Other Psychoses. Front Psychiatry 2020; 11:852. [PMID: 33061910 PMCID: PMC7475700 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2020.00852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2020] [Accepted: 08/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Prenatal infections have been linked to the development of schizophrenia (SCZ) and other neurodevelopmental disorders in the offspring, and work in animal models indicates that this is to occur through the maternal inflammatory response triggered by infection. Several studies in animal models demonstrated that acute inflammatory episodes are sufficient to trigger brain alterations in the adult offspring, especially in the mesolimbic dopamine (DA) system, involved in the pathophysiology of SCZ and other disorders involving psychosis. In the current review, we synthesize the literature on the clinical studies implicating prenatal infectious events in the development of SCZ. Then, we summarize evidence from animal models of maternal immune activation (MIA) and the behavioral and molecular alterations relevant for the function of the DAergic system. Furthermore, we discuss the evidence supporting the involvement of maternal cytokines, such as interleukin 6 (IL-6) and leptin (a hormone with effects on inflammation) in mediating the effects of MIA on the fetal brain, leading to the long-lasting effects on the offspring. In particular, IL-6 has been involved in mediating the effects of MIA animal models in the offspring through actions on the placenta, induction of IL-17a, or triggering the decrease in non-heme iron (hypoferremia). Maternal infection is very likely interacting with additional genetic and environmental risk factors in the development of SCZ; systematically investigating how these interactions produce specific phenotypes is the next step in understanding the etiology of complex psychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Brandon Rodrigue
- Department of Neuroscience, Carleton University, Ottawa, ON, Canada
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Al-Haddad BJS, Oler E, Armistead B, Elsayed NA, Weinberger DR, Bernier R, Burd I, Kapur R, Jacobsson B, Wang C, Mysorekar I, Rajagopal L, Adams Waldorf KM. The fetal origins of mental illness. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2019; 221:549-562. [PMID: 31207234 PMCID: PMC6889013 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2019.06.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 166] [Impact Index Per Article: 33.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2019] [Revised: 06/07/2019] [Accepted: 06/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The impact of infections and inflammation during pregnancy on the developing fetal brain remains incompletely defined, with important clinical and research gaps. Although the classic infectious TORCH pathogens (ie, Toxoplasma gondii, rubella virus, cytomegalovirus [CMV], herpes simplex virus) are known to be directly teratogenic, emerging evidence suggests that these infections represent the most extreme end of a much larger spectrum of injury. We present the accumulating evidence that prenatal exposure to a wide variety of viral and bacterial infections-or simply inflammation-may subtly alter fetal brain development, leading to neuropsychiatric consequences for the child later in life. The link between influenza infections in pregnant women and an increased risk for development of schizophrenia in their children was first described more than 30 years ago. Since then, evidence suggests that a range of infections during pregnancy may also increase risk for autism spectrum disorder and depression in the child. Subsequent studies in animal models demonstrated that both pregnancy infections and inflammation can result in direct injury to neurons and neural progenitor cells or indirect injury through activation of microglia and astrocytes, which can trigger cytokine production and oxidative stress. Infectious exposures can also alter placental serotonin production, which can perturb neurotransmitter signaling in the developing brain. Clinically, detection of these subtle injuries to the fetal brain is difficult. As the neuropsychiatric impact of perinatal infections or inflammation may not be known for decades after birth, our construct for defining teratogenic infections in pregnancy (eg, TORCH) based on congenital anomalies is insufficient to capture the full adverse impact on the child. We discuss the clinical implications of this body of evidence and how we might place greater emphasis on prevention of prenatal infections. For example, increasing uptake of the seasonal influenza vaccine is a key strategy to reduce perinatal infections and the risk for fetal brain injury. An important research gap exists in understanding how antibiotic therapy during pregnancy affects the fetal inflammatory load and how to avoid inflammation-mediated injury to the fetal brain. In summary, we discuss the current evidence and mechanisms linking infections and inflammation with the increased lifelong risk of neuropsychiatric disorders in the child, and how we might improve prenatal care to protect the fetal brain.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Elizabeth Oler
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | - Blair Armistead
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington Seattle, WA; Center for Global Infectious Disease Research, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA
| | - Nada A Elsayed
- Integrated Research Center for Fetal Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Daniel R Weinberger
- Lieber Institute for Brain Development, Departments of Psychiatry, Neurology, Neuroscience, and McKusick-Nathans Institute of Genetic Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine Baltimore, MD
| | - Raphael Bernier
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | - Irina Burd
- Integrated Research Center for Fetal Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD; Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Raj Kapur
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington, Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, WA
| | - Bo Jacobsson
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Clinical Science, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden; Region Västra Götaland, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden; Department of Genetics and Bioinformatics, Domain of Health Data and Digitalization, Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
| | - Caihong Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Health Sciences, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO
| | - Indira Mysorekar
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Pathology and Immunology, Center for Reproductive Health Sciences, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO
| | - Lakshmi Rajagopal
- Center for Innate Immunity and Immune Disease, Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA; Center for Global Infectious Disease Research, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA
| | - Kristina M Adams Waldorf
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology and Global Health, Center for Innate Immunity and Immune Disease, Center for Emerging and Reemerging Infectious Diseases, University of Washington, Seattle, WA; Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.
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41
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Kowash HM, Potter HG, Edye ME, Prinssen EP, Bandinelli S, Neill JC, Hager R, Glazier JD. Poly(I:C) source, molecular weight and endotoxin contamination affect dam and prenatal outcomes, implications for models of maternal immune activation. Brain Behav Immun 2019; 82:160-166. [PMID: 31415868 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2019.08.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2019] [Revised: 08/10/2019] [Accepted: 08/10/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The viral mimetic polyinosinic:polycytidylic acid (poly(I:C)) is increasingly used to induce maternal immune activation (mIA) to model neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs). Robust and reproducible phenotypes across studies are essential for the generation of models that will enhance our understanding of NDDs and enable the development of improved therapeutic strategies. However, differences in mIA-induced phenotypes using poly(I:C) have been widely observed, and this has prompted the reporting of useful and much needed methodological guidelines. Here, we perform a detailed investigation of molecular weight and endotoxin variations in poly(I:C) procured from two of the most commonly used suppliers, Sigma and InvivoGen. We demonstrate that endotoxin contamination and molecular weight differences in poly(I:C) composition lead to considerable variability in maternal IL-6 response in rats treated on gestational day (GD)15 and impact on fetal outcomes. Specifically, both endotoxin contamination and molecular weight predicted reductions in litter size on GD21. Further, molecular weight predicted a reduction in placental weight at GD21. While fetal body weight at GD21 was not affected by poly(I:C) treatment, male fetal brain weight was significantly reduced by poly(I:C), dependent on supplier. Our data are in agreement with recent reports of the importance of poly(I:C) molecular weight, and extend this work to demonstrate a key role of endotoxin on relevant phenotypic outcomes. We recommend that the source and batch numbers of poly(I:C) used should always be stated and that molecular weight variability and endotoxin contamination should be minimised for more robust mIA modelling.
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Affiliation(s)
- H M Kowash
- Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9WL, UK
| | - H G Potter
- Division of Evolution and Genomic Sciences, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PT, UK
| | - M E Edye
- Division of Pharmacy and Optometry, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Biology and Health, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PT, UK
| | - E P Prinssen
- Roche Innovation Centre, Basel, 124 Grenzacherstrasse, Basel, CH 4070, Switzerland
| | - S Bandinelli
- Roche Innovation Centre, Basel, 124 Grenzacherstrasse, Basel, CH 4070, Switzerland
| | - J C Neill
- Division of Pharmacy and Optometry, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Biology and Health, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PT, UK. http://www.b-neuro.com
| | - R Hager
- Division of Evolution and Genomic Sciences, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PT, UK
| | - J D Glazier
- Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9WL, UK; Division of Evolution and Genomic Sciences, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PT, UK
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42
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Mueller FS, Richetto J, Hayes LN, Zambon A, Pollak DD, Sawa A, Meyer U, Weber-Stadlbauer U. Influence of poly(I:C) variability on thermoregulation, immune responses and pregnancy outcomes in mouse models of maternal immune activation. Brain Behav Immun 2019; 80:406-418. [PMID: 30980948 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2019.04.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2019] [Revised: 04/04/2019] [Accepted: 04/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Maternal immune activation (MIA) models that are based on administration of the viral mimetic, poly(I:C), are widely used as experimental tools to study neuronal and behavioral dysfunctions in relation to immune-mediated neurodevelopmental disorders and mental illnesses. Evidence from investigations in non-pregnant rodents suggests that different poly(I:C) products can vary in terms of their immunogenicity, even if they are obtained from the same vendor. The present study aimed at extending these findings to pregnant mice, while also controlling various poly(I:C) products for potential contamination with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). We found significant variability between different batches of poly(I:C) potassium salt obtained from the same vendor (Sigma-Aldrich) in terms of the relative amount of dsRNA fragments in the high molecular weight range (1000-6000 nucleotides long) and with regards to their effects on maternal thermoregulation and immune responses in maternal plasma, placenta and fetal brain. Batches of poly(I:C) potassium salt containing larger amounts of high molecular weight fragments induced more extensive effects on thermoregulation and immune responses compared to batches with minimal amounts of high molecular weight fragments. Consistent with these findings, poly(I:C) enriched for high molecular weight dsRNA (HMW) caused larger maternal and placental immune responses compared to low molecular weight (LMW) poly(I:C). These variable effects were unrelated to possible LPS contamination. Finally, we found marked variability between different batches of the poly(I:C) potassium salt in terms of their effects on spontaneous abortion rates. This batch-to-batch variability was confirmed by three independent research groups using distinct poly(I:C) administration protocols in mice. Taken together, the present data confirm that different poly(I:C) products can induce varying immune responses and can differentially affect maternal physiology and pregnancy outcomes. It is therefore pivotal that researchers working with poly(I:C)-based MIA models ascertain and consider the precise molecular composition and immunogenicity of the product in use. We recommend the establishment of reference databases that combine phenotype data with empirically acquired quality information, which can aid the design, implementation and interpretation of poly(I:C)-based MIA models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Flavia S Mueller
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zurich - Vetsuisse, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Juliet Richetto
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zurich - Vetsuisse, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Lindsay N Hayes
- Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, USA
| | - Alice Zambon
- Department of Neurophysiology and Neuropharmacology, Center for Physiology and Pharmacology, Medical University of Vienna, Austria
| | - Daniela D Pollak
- Department of Neurophysiology and Neuropharmacology, Center for Physiology and Pharmacology, Medical University of Vienna, Austria
| | - Akira Sawa
- Departments of Psychiatry, Neuroscience, and Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, USA; Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, USA; Bloomberg School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins Hospital and Medical Institutions, Baltimore, USA
| | - Urs Meyer
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zurich - Vetsuisse, Zurich, Switzerland; Neuroscience Center Zurich, University of Zurich and ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
| | - Ulrike Weber-Stadlbauer
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zurich - Vetsuisse, Zurich, Switzerland
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43
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Kakuda K, Niwa A, Honda R, Yamaguchi KI, Tomita H, Nojebuzzaman M, Hara A, Goto Y, Osawa M, Kuwata K. A DISC1 point mutation promotes oligomerization and impairs information processing in a mouse model of schizophrenia. J Biochem 2019; 165:369-378. [PMID: 30561706 DOI: 10.1093/jb/mvy116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2018] [Accepted: 12/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Disrupted-in-schizophrenia 1 (DISC1) is strongly associated with schizophrenia, but it remains elusive how the modification of the intermolecular interaction of DISC1 affects the information processing in brain. We show that a DISC1 point mutation alters intermolecular cohesiveness promoting the phase separation, and disrupts sensorimotor gating monitored by the prepulse inhibition in a mouse model of schizophrenia. Although the conformation of DISC1 partial peptide with the schizophrenia-related mutation L607F in human or the corresponding L604F in mouse was essentially indistinguishable from the wild type (WT) as long as monitored by fluorescence, circular dichroism, ultracentrifugation, dynamic light scattering and nuclear magnetic resonance, the atomic force microscopy was able to detect their morphological distinctions. The WT peptides were round and well dispersed, while mutants were inhomogeneous and disrupted to form dimer to trimer that aligned along one direction without apparent aggregate formation. Homozygous L604F mutant mice created by CRISPR exhibited the significant decrease in DISC1 level in the immunohistopathology at the hippocampal region compared to the WTs. The ratio of prepulse inhibition of the homozygous mutant mice was significantly impaired compared to WTs. Altered DISC1 distribution or function caused by aberrant intermolecular interactions may contribute to information processing characteristics in schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyosuke Kakuda
- United Graduate School of Drug Discovery and Medical Information Sciences, Gifu University, 1-1 Yanagido, Gifu
| | - Ayumi Niwa
- Department of Tumor Pathology, Gifu University Graduate School of Medicine, 1-1 Yanagido, Gifu
| | - Ryo Honda
- United Graduate School of Drug Discovery and Medical Information Sciences, Gifu University, 1-1 Yanagido, Gifu
| | - Kei-Ichi Yamaguchi
- Institute for Protein Research, Osaka University, 3-2 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka
| | - Hiroyuki Tomita
- Department of Tumor Pathology, Gifu University Graduate School of Medicine, 1-1 Yanagido, Gifu
| | - Md Nojebuzzaman
- Division of Regeneration Technology, Gifu University Graduate School of Medicine, Gifu, Japan
| | - Akira Hara
- Department of Tumor Pathology, Gifu University Graduate School of Medicine, 1-1 Yanagido, Gifu
| | - Yuji Goto
- Institute for Protein Research, Osaka University, 3-2 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka
| | - Masatake Osawa
- Division of Regeneration Technology, Gifu University Graduate School of Medicine, Gifu, Japan
| | - Kazuo Kuwata
- United Graduate School of Drug Discovery and Medical Information Sciences, Gifu University, 1-1 Yanagido, Gifu
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44
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Bygrave AM, Masiulis S, Kullmann DM, Bannerman DM, Kätzel D. Gene-Environment Interaction in a Conditional NMDAR-Knockout Model of Schizophrenia. Front Behav Neurosci 2019; 12:332. [PMID: 30687034 PMCID: PMC6338026 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2018.00332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2018] [Accepted: 12/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Interactions between genetic and environmental risk factors take center stage in the pathology of schizophrenia. We assessed if the stressor of reduced environmental enrichment applied in adulthood provokes deficits in the positive, negative or cognitive symptom domains of schizophrenia in a mouse line modeling NMDA-receptor (NMDAR) hypofunction in forebrain inhibitory interneurons (Grin1ΔPpp1r2). We find that Grin1ΔPpp1r2 mice, when group-housed in highly enriched cages, appear largely normal across a wide range of schizophrenia-related behavioral tests. However, they display various short-term memory deficits when exposed to minimal enrichment. This demonstrates that the interaction between risk genes causing NMDA-receptor hypofunction and environmental risk factors may negatively impact cognition later in life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexei M Bygrave
- Department of Experimental Psychology, Medical Sciences Division, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Simonas Masiulis
- Department of Experimental Psychology, Medical Sciences Division, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Dimitri M Kullmann
- Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - David M Bannerman
- Department of Experimental Psychology, Medical Sciences Division, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Dennis Kätzel
- Department of Experimental Psychology, Medical Sciences Division, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom.,Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, United Kingdom.,Institute of Applied Physiology, University of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
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45
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Transient Knock-Down of Prefrontal DISC1 in Immune-Challenged Mice Causes Abnormal Long-Range Coupling and Cognitive Dysfunction throughout Development. J Neurosci 2019; 39:1222-1235. [PMID: 30617212 PMCID: PMC6381232 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.2170-18.2018] [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: 08/22/2018] [Revised: 11/20/2018] [Accepted: 11/21/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Compromised brain development has been hypothesized to account for mental illness. This concept was underpinned by the function of the molecule disrupted-in-schizophrenia 1 (DISC1), which represents an intracellular hub of developmental processes and has been related to cognitive dysfunction in psychiatric disorders. Mice with whole-brain DISC1 knock-down show impaired prefrontal–hippocampal function and cognitive abilities throughout development and at adulthood, especially when combined with early environmental stressors, such as maternal immune activation (MIA). However, the contribution of abnormal DISC1-driven maturation of either prefrontal cortex (PFC) or hippocampus (HP) to these deficits is still unknown. Here, we use in utero electroporation to restrict the DISC1 knock-down to prefrontal layer II/III pyramidal neurons during perinatal development and expose these mice to MIA as an environmental stressor (dual-hit GPFCE mice, both sexes). Combining in vivo electrophysiology and neuroanatomy with behavioral testing, we show that GPFCE mice at neonatal age have abnormal patterns of oscillatory activity and firing in PFC, but not HP. Abnormal firing rates in PFC of GPFCE mice relate to sparser dendritic arborization and lower spine density. Moreover, the long-range coupling within prefrontal–hippocampal networks is decreased at this age. The transient prefrontal DISC1 knock-down was sufficient to permanently perturb the prefrontal–hippocampal communication and caused poorer recognition memory performance at pre-juvenile age. Thus, developmental dysfunction of prefrontal circuitry causes long-lasting disturbances related to mental illness. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Hypofrontality is considered a main cause of cognitive deficits in mental disorders, yet the underlying mechanisms are still largely unknown. During development, long before the emergence of disease symptoms, the functional coupling within the prefrontal–hippocampal network, which is the core brain circuit involved in cognitive processing, is reduced. To assess to which extent impaired prefrontal development contributes to the early dysfunction, immune-challenged mice with transient DISC1 knock-down confined to PFC were investigated in their prefrontal–hippocampal communication throughout development by in vivo electrophysiology and behavioral testing. We show that perturbing developmental processes of prefrontal layer II/III pyramidal neurons is sufficient to diminish prefrontal–hippocampal coupling and decrease the cognitive performance throughout development.
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46
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Winship IR, Dursun SM, Baker GB, Balista PA, Kandratavicius L, Maia-de-Oliveira JP, Hallak J, Howland JG. An Overview of Animal Models Related to Schizophrenia. CANADIAN JOURNAL OF PSYCHIATRY. REVUE CANADIENNE DE PSYCHIATRIE 2019; 64:5-17. [PMID: 29742910 PMCID: PMC6364139 DOI: 10.1177/0706743718773728] [Citation(s) in RCA: 127] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Schizophrenia is a heterogeneous psychiatric disorder that is poorly treated with current therapies. In this brief review, we provide an update regarding the use of animal models to study schizophrenia in an attempt to understand its aetiology and develop novel therapeutic strategies. Tremendous progress has been made developing and validating rodent models that replicate the aetiologies, brain pathologies, and behavioural abnormalities associated with schizophrenia in humans. Here, models are grouped into 3 categories-developmental, drug induced, and genetic-to reflect the heterogeneous risk factors associated with schizophrenia. Each of these models is associated with varied but overlapping pathophysiology, endophenotypes, behavioural abnormalities, and cognitive impairments. Studying schizophrenia using multiple models will permit an understanding of the core features of the disease, thereby facilitating preclinical research aimed at the development and validation of better pharmacotherapies to alter the progression of schizophrenia or alleviate its debilitating symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ian R Winship
- 1 Neuroscience and Mental Health Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta
| | - Serdar M Dursun
- 2 Department of Psychiatry, Neurochemical Research Unit and Bebensee Schizophrenia Research Unit, Neuroscience and Mental Health Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta.,3 National Institute of Science and Technology-Translational Science, Brazil
| | - Glen B Baker
- 2 Department of Psychiatry, Neurochemical Research Unit and Bebensee Schizophrenia Research Unit, Neuroscience and Mental Health Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta.,3 National Institute of Science and Technology-Translational Science, Brazil
| | - Priscila A Balista
- 4 Department of Pharmacy, Centro Universitario das Faculdades Metropolitanas Unidas, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ludmyla Kandratavicius
- 5 Department of Neuroscience and Behavior, Faculty of Medicine of Ribeirao Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirao Preto, Brazil
| | - Joao Paulo Maia-de-Oliveira
- 3 National Institute of Science and Technology-Translational Science, Brazil.,6 Department of Clinical Medicine, Rio Grande do Norte Federal University, Natal, Brazil
| | - Jaime Hallak
- 3 National Institute of Science and Technology-Translational Science, Brazil.,5 Department of Neuroscience and Behavior, Faculty of Medicine of Ribeirao Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirao Preto, Brazil.,7 Department of Psychiatry (NRU), University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta
| | - John G Howland
- 8 Department of Physiology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan
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Uzuneser TC, Speidel J, Kogias G, Wang AL, de Souza Silva MA, Huston JP, Zoicas I, von Hörsten S, Kornhuber J, Korth C, Müller CP. Disrupted-in-Schizophrenia 1 (DISC1) Overexpression and Juvenile Immune Activation Cause Sex-Specific Schizophrenia-Related Psychopathology in Rats. Front Psychiatry 2019; 10:222. [PMID: 31057438 PMCID: PMC6465888 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2019.00222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2019] [Accepted: 03/26/2019] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Synaptic pruning is a critical refinement step during neurodevelopment, and schizophrenia has been associated with overpruning of cortical dendritic spines. Both human studies and animal models implicate disrupted-in-schizophrenia 1 (DISC1) gene as a strong susceptibility factor for schizophrenia. Accumulating evidence supports the involvement of DISC1 protein in the modulation of synaptic elimination during critical periods of neurodevelopment and of dopamine D2-receptor-mediated signaling during adulthood. In many species, synaptic pruning occurs during juvenile and adolescent periods and is mediated by microglia, which can be over-activated by an immune challenge, giving rise to overpruning. Therefore, we sought to investigate possible interactions between a transgenic DISC1 model (tgDISC1) and juvenile immune activation (JIA) by the bacterial cell wall endotoxin lipopolysaccharide on the induction of schizophrenia-related behavioral and neurochemical disruptions in adult female and male rats. We examined possible behavioral aberrations along three major symptom dimensions of schizophrenia including psychosis, social and emotional disruptions, and cognitive impairments. We detected significant gene-environment interactions in the amphetamine-induced locomotion in female animals and in the amphetamine-induced anxiety in male animals. Surprisingly, gene-environment interactions improved social memory in both male and female animals. JIA alone disrupted spatial memory and recognition memory, but only in male animals. DISC1 overexpression alone induced an improvement in sensorimotor gating, but only in female animals. Our neurochemical analyses detected sex- and manipulation-dependent changes in the postmortem monoamine content of animals. Taken together, we here report sex-specific effects of environment and genotype as well as their interaction on behavioral phenotypes and neurochemical profiles relevant for schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taygun C Uzuneser
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Jil Speidel
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Georgios Kogias
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - An-Li Wang
- Center for Behavioral Neuroscience, Institute of Experimental Psychology, University of Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Maria A de Souza Silva
- Center for Behavioral Neuroscience, Institute of Experimental Psychology, University of Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Joseph P Huston
- Center for Behavioral Neuroscience, Institute of Experimental Psychology, University of Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Iulia Zoicas
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Stephan von Hörsten
- Department of Experimental Therapy, Preclinical Experimental Center, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Johannes Kornhuber
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Carsten Korth
- Department of Neuropathology, Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine-University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Christian P Müller
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
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48
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Glass R, Norton S, Fox N, Kusnecov AW. Maternal immune activation with staphylococcal enterotoxin A produces unique behavioral changes in C57BL/6 mouse offspring. Brain Behav Immun 2019; 75:12-25. [PMID: 29772261 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2018.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2017] [Revised: 04/27/2018] [Accepted: 05/04/2018] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Stimulation of the immune system during pregnancy, known as maternal immune activation (MIA), can cause long-lasting neurobiological and behavioral changes in the offspring. This phenomenon has been implicated in the etiology of developmental psychiatric disorders, such as autism and schizophrenia. Much of this evidence is predicated on animal models using bacterial agents such as LPS and/or viral mimics such as Poly I:C, both of which act through toll-like receptors. However, fewer studies have examined the role of direct activation of maternal T-cells during pregnancy using microbial agents. Bacterial superantigens, such as Staphylococcal Enterotoxin A and B (SEA; SEB), are microbial proteins that activate CD4+ T-cells and cause prominent T-cell proliferation and cytokine production. We injected pregnant and non-pregnant adult female C57BL/6 mice with 200 μg/Kg of SEA, SEB, or 0.9% saline, and measured splenic T-cell-derived cytokine concentrations (viz., IL-2, IFN-γ, IL-6, and IL-4) 2 h later; animals injected with SEA were also measured for splenic concentrations of TNF-α and IL-17A. Half of the injected pregnant animals were brought to term, and their offspring were tested on a series of behavioral tasks starting at six weeks of age (postnatal day 42 [P42]). These tasks included social interaction, the elevated plus maze (EPM), an open field and object recognition (OR) task, prepulse inhibition (PPI) of sensorimotor gating, and the Morris water maze (MWM). Results showed that SEA and SEB induced significant concentrations of all measured cytokines, and in particular IFN-γ, although cytokine responses were greater following SEA exposure. In addition, pregnancy induced an inhibitory effect on cytokine production. Behavioral results showed distinct phenotypes among offspring from SEA- or SEB-injected mothers, very likely due to differences in the magnitude of cytokines generated in response to each toxin. Offspring from SEA-injected mothers displayed modest decreases in social behavior, but increased anxiety, locomotion, interest in a novel object, and short-term spatial memory, while offspring of SEB-injected mothers only exhibited increased anxiety and locomotion. There were no deficits in PPI, which was actually pronounced in SEA and SEB offspring. Overall, the novel use of SEA and SEB as prenatal immune challenges elicited distinct behavioral profiles in the offspring that both mirrors and diverges from previous models of maternal immune activation in important ways. We conclude that superantigen-induced T-cell-mediated maternal immune activation is a valid and valuable model for studying and expanding our understanding of the effects of prenatal immune challenge on neurodevelopmental and behavioral alterations in offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruthy Glass
- Rutgers University, 152 Frelinghuysen Rd, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA.
| | - Sara Norton
- Rutgers University, 152 Frelinghuysen Rd, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
| | - Nicholas Fox
- Rutgers University, 152 Frelinghuysen Rd, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA
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49
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Bergdolt L, Dunaevsky A. Brain changes in a maternal immune activation model of neurodevelopmental brain disorders. Prog Neurobiol 2018; 175:1-19. [PMID: 30590095 DOI: 10.1016/j.pneurobio.2018.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 144] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2018] [Revised: 12/13/2018] [Accepted: 12/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The developing brain is sensitive to a variety of insults. Epidemiological studies have identified prenatal exposure to infection as a risk factor for a range of neurological disorders, including autism spectrum disorder and schizophrenia. Animal models corroborate this association and have been used to probe the contribution of gene-environment interactions to the etiology of neurodevelopmental disorders. Here we review the behavior and brain phenotypes that have been characterized in MIA offspring, including the studies that have looked at the interaction between maternal immune activation and genetic risk factors for autism spectrum disorder or schizophrenia. These phenotypes include behaviors relevant to autism, schizophrenia, and other neurological disorders, alterations in brain anatomy, and structural and functional neuronal impairments. The link between maternal infection and these phenotypic changes is not fully understood, but there is increasing evidence that maternal immune activation induces prolonged immune alterations in the offspring's brain which could underlie epigenetic alterations which in turn may mediate the behavior and brain changes. These concepts will be discussed followed by a summary of the pharmacological interventions that have been tested in the maternal immune activation model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lara Bergdolt
- University of Nebraska Medical Center, Neurological Sciences, 985960 Nebraska Medical Center, 68105, Omaha, NE, United States
| | - Anna Dunaevsky
- University of Nebraska Medical Center, Neurological Sciences, 985960 Nebraska Medical Center, 68105, Omaha, NE, United States.
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50
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Ma JH, Sun XY, Guo TJ, Barot E, Wang DF, Yan LL, Ni DW, Huang NH, Xie Q, Zeng J, Ou-Yang L, Liu YQ, Lu QB. Association on DISC1 SNPs with schizophrenia risk: A meta-analysis. Psychiatry Res 2018; 270:306-309. [PMID: 30286368 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2018.09.056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2018] [Revised: 09/17/2018] [Accepted: 09/22/2018] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Schizophrenia is a major psychiatric disorder with complex genetic, environmental, and psychological etiologies. Although DISC1 gene has been shown as a risk factor for schizophrenia in some reports, there is a lack of a consensus. We therefore performed separate meta-analyses aiming to assess the associations between DISC1 SNPs and schizophrenia risk. We found that SNP rs821597 is significantly associated with schizophrenia risk in terms of both allelic and genotypic distribution, while SNP rs821616 is associated with schizophrenia in terms of genotypic distribution, especially in cases above 40 years old.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia-Hui Ma
- Department of Laboratorial Science and Technology, School of Public Health, Peking University, No. 38 Xue-Yuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing 100191, PR China.
| | - Xiao-Yu Sun
- Department of Laboratorial Science and Technology, School of Public Health, Peking University, No. 38 Xue-Yuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing 100191, PR China.
| | - Tong-Jun Guo
- Graduate School of Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China.
| | - Emily Barot
- Bioinformatics Center, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen 2200, Denmark.
| | | | - Lai-Lai Yan
- Department of Laboratorial Science and Technology, School of Public Health, Peking University, No. 38 Xue-Yuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing 100191, PR China.
| | - Da-Wei Ni
- Central Hospital of Fengxian, Shanghai 201499, China
| | - Ning-Hua Huang
- Department of Laboratorial Science and Technology, School of Public Health, Peking University, No. 38 Xue-Yuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing 100191, PR China.
| | - Qing Xie
- Department of Laboratorial Science and Technology, School of Public Health, Peking University, No. 38 Xue-Yuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing 100191, PR China.
| | - Jing Zeng
- Department of Laboratorial Science and Technology, School of Public Health, Peking University, No. 38 Xue-Yuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing 100191, PR China.
| | - Li Ou-Yang
- Department of Laboratorial Science and Technology, School of Public Health, Peking University, No. 38 Xue-Yuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing 100191, PR China.
| | - Ya-Qiong Liu
- Department of Laboratorial Science and Technology, School of Public Health, Peking University, No. 38 Xue-Yuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing 100191, PR China.
| | - Qing-Bin Lu
- Department of Laboratorial Science and Technology, School of Public Health, Peking University, No. 38 Xue-Yuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing 100191, PR China.
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