1
|
Atsoniou K, Giannopoulou E, Georganta EM, Skoulakis EMC. Drosophila Contributions towards Understanding Neurofibromatosis 1. Cells 2024; 13:721. [PMID: 38667335 PMCID: PMC11048932 DOI: 10.3390/cells13080721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2024] [Revised: 04/17/2024] [Accepted: 04/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Neurofibromatosis 1 (NF1) is a multisymptomatic disorder with highly variable presentations, which include short stature, susceptibility to formation of the characteristic benign tumors known as neurofibromas, intense freckling and skin discoloration, and cognitive deficits, which characterize most children with the condition. Attention deficits and Autism Spectrum manifestations augment the compromised learning presented by most patients, leading to behavioral problems and school failure, while fragmented sleep contributes to chronic fatigue and poor quality of life. Neurofibromin (Nf1) is present ubiquitously during human development and postnatally in most neuronal, oligodendrocyte, and Schwann cells. Evidence largely from animal models including Drosophila suggests that the symptomatic variability may reflect distinct cell-type-specific functions of the protein, which emerge upon its loss, or mutations affecting the different functional domains of the protein. This review summarizes the contributions of Drosophila in modeling multiple NF1 manifestations, addressing hypotheses regarding the cell-type-specific functions of the protein and exploring the molecular pathways affected upon loss of the highly conserved fly homolog dNf1. Collectively, work in this model not only has efficiently and expediently modelled multiple aspects of the condition and increased understanding of its behavioral manifestations, but also has led to pharmaceutical strategies towards their amelioration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kalliopi Atsoniou
- Institute for Fundamental Biomedical Research, Biomedical Sciences Research Center “Alexander Fleming”, 16672 Athens, Greece; (K.A.); (E.G.)
- Laboratory of Experimental Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Eleni Giannopoulou
- Institute for Fundamental Biomedical Research, Biomedical Sciences Research Center “Alexander Fleming”, 16672 Athens, Greece; (K.A.); (E.G.)
| | - Eirini-Maria Georganta
- Institute for Fundamental Biomedical Research, Biomedical Sciences Research Center “Alexander Fleming”, 16672 Athens, Greece; (K.A.); (E.G.)
| | - Efthimios M. C. Skoulakis
- Institute for Fundamental Biomedical Research, Biomedical Sciences Research Center “Alexander Fleming”, 16672 Athens, Greece; (K.A.); (E.G.)
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Faralli A, Fucà E, Lazzaro G, Menghini D, Vicari S, Costanzo F. Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation in neurogenetic syndromes: new treatment perspectives for Down syndrome? Front Cell Neurosci 2024; 18:1328963. [PMID: 38456063 PMCID: PMC10917937 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2024.1328963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024] Open
Abstract
This perspective review aims to explore the potential neurobiological mechanisms involved in the application of transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) for Down syndrome (DS), the leading cause of genetically-based intellectual disability. The neural mechanisms underlying tDCS interventions in genetic disorders, typically characterized by cognitive deficits, are grounded in the concept of brain plasticity. We initially present the neurobiological and functional effects elicited by tDCS applications in enhancing neuroplasticity and in regulating the excitatory/inhibitory balance, both associated with cognitive improvement in the general population. The review begins with evidence on tDCS applications in five neurogenetic disorders, including Rett, Prader-Willi, Phelan-McDermid, and Neurofibromatosis 1 syndromes, as well as DS. Available evidence supports tDCS as a potential intervention tool and underscores the importance of advancing neurobiological research into the mechanisms of tDCS action in these conditions. We then discuss the potential of tDCS as a promising non-invasive strategy to mitigate deficits in plasticity and promote fine-tuning of the excitatory/inhibitory balance in DS, exploring implications for cognitive treatment perspectives in this population.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alessio Faralli
- Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry Unit, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital (IRCCS), Rome, Italy
| | - Elisa Fucà
- Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry Unit, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital (IRCCS), Rome, Italy
| | - Giulia Lazzaro
- Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry Unit, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital (IRCCS), Rome, Italy
| | - Deny Menghini
- Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry Unit, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital (IRCCS), Rome, Italy
| | - Stefano Vicari
- Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry Unit, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital (IRCCS), Rome, Italy
- Life Sciences and Public Health Department, Catholic University of Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy
| | - Floriana Costanzo
- Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry Unit, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital (IRCCS), Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Rivera J, Sharma B, Torres MM, Kumar S. Factors affecting the GABAergic synapse function in Alzheimer's disease: Focus on microRNAs. Ageing Res Rev 2023; 92:102123. [PMID: 37967653 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2023.102123] [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: 09/01/2023] [Revised: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/17/2023]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurological disease characterized by the loss of cognitive function, confusion, and memory deficit. Accumulation of abnormal proteins, amyloid beta (Aß), and phosphorylated Tau (p-tau) forms plaques and tangles that deteriorate synapse function, resulting in neurodegeneration and cognitive decline in AD. The human brain is composed of different types of neurons and/or synapses that are functionally defective in AD. The GABAergic synapse, the most abundant inhibitory neuron in the human brain was found to be dysfunctional in AD and contributes to disrupting neurological function. This study explored the types of GABA receptors associated with neurological dysfunction and various biological and environmental factors that cause GABAergic neuron dysfunction in AD, such as Aβ, p-tau, aging, sex, astrocytes, microglia, APOE, mental disorder, diet, physical activity, and sleep. Furthermore, we explored the role of microRNAs (miRNAs) in the regulation of GABAergic synapse function in neurological disorders and AD states. We also discuss the molecular mechanisms underlying GABAergic synapse dysfunction with a focus on miR-27b, miR-30a, miR-190a/b, miR-33, miR-51, miR-129-5p, miR-376-3p, miR-376c, miR-30b and miR-502-3p. The purpose of our article is to highlight the recent research on miRNAs affecting the regulation of GABAergic synapse function and factors that contribute to the progression of AD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jazmin Rivera
- Center of Emphasis in Neuroscience, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Paul L. Foster School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, El Paso, TX, USA
| | - Bhupender Sharma
- Center of Emphasis in Neuroscience, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Paul L. Foster School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, El Paso, TX, USA
| | - Melissa M Torres
- Center of Emphasis in Neuroscience, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Paul L. Foster School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, El Paso, TX, USA
| | - Subodh Kumar
- Center of Emphasis in Neuroscience, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Paul L. Foster School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, El Paso, TX, USA; L. Frederick Francis Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, El Paso, TX, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Jetsonen E, Didio G, Winkel F, Llach Pou M, Boj C, Kuczynski-Noyau L, Võikar V, Guirado R, Taira T, Lauri SE, Castrén E, Umemori J. Activation of TrkB in Parvalbumin interneurons is required for the promotion of reversal learning in spatial and fear memory by antidepressants. Neuropsychopharmacology 2023; 48:1021-1030. [PMID: 36944718 PMCID: PMC10209093 DOI: 10.1038/s41386-023-01562-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2022] [Revised: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 02/26/2023] [Indexed: 03/23/2023]
Abstract
Critical period-like plasticity (iPlasticity) can be reinstated in the adult brain by several interventions, including drugs and optogenetic modifications. We have demonstrated that a combination of iPlasticity with optimal training improves behaviors related to neuropsychiatric disorders. In this context, the activation of TrkB, a receptor for BDNF, in Parvalbumin-positive (PV+) interneurons has a pivotal role in cortical network changes. However, it is unknown if the activation of TrkB in PV+ interneurons is important for other plasticity-related behaviors, especially for learning and memory. Here, using mice with heterozygous conditional TrkB deletion in PV+ interneurons (PV-TrkB hCKO) in IntelliCage and fear erasure paradigms, we show that chronic treatment with fluoxetine, a widely prescribed antidepressant drug that is known to promote the activation of TrkB, enhances behavioral flexibility in spatial and fear memory, largely depending on the expression of the TrkB receptor in PV+ interneurons. In addition, hippocampal long-term potentiation was enhanced by chronic treatment with fluoxetine in wild-type mice, but not in PV-TrkB hCKO mice. Transcriptomic analysis of PV+ interneurons after fluoxetine treatment indicated intrinsic changes in synaptic formation and downregulation of enzymes involved in perineuronal net formation. Consistently, immunohistochemistry has shown that the fluoxetine treatment alters PV expression and reduces PNNs in PV+ interneurons, and here we show that TrkB expression in PV+ interneurons is required for these effects. Together, our results provide molecular and network mechanisms for the induction of critical period-like plasticity in adulthood.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elias Jetsonen
- Neuroscience Center, HiLIFE, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Giuliano Didio
- Neuroscience Center, HiLIFE, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Frederike Winkel
- Neuroscience Center, HiLIFE, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Centre for Developmental Neurobiology and MRC Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Maria Llach Pou
- Neuroscience Center, HiLIFE, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Integrative Neurobiology of Cholinergic Systems, Neuroscience Department, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
| | - Chloe Boj
- Neuroscience Center, HiLIFE, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Laura Kuczynski-Noyau
- Neuroscience Center, HiLIFE, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Univ. Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, Laboratory of Development and Plasticity of the Neuroendocrine Brain, Lille Neuroscience & Cognition, UMR-S1172, EGID, F-59000, Lille, France
| | - Vootele Võikar
- Neuroscience Center, HiLIFE, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Ramon Guirado
- Neurobiology Unit, Department of Cell Biology, Interdisciplinary Research Structure for Biotechnology and Biomedicine (BIOTECMED), Universitat de Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Tomi Taira
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences and Neuroscience Center, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Sari E Lauri
- Neuroscience Center, HiLIFE, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Molecular and Integrative Biosciences Research Programme, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Eero Castrén
- Neuroscience Center, HiLIFE, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.
| | - Juzoh Umemori
- Neuroscience Center, HiLIFE, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.
- Gene and Cell Technology, A.I. Virtanen Institute, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Garg S, Williams S, Jung J, Pobric G, Nandi T, Lim B, Vassallo G, Green J, Evans DG, Stagg CJ, Parkes LM, Stivaros S. Non-invasive brain stimulation modulates GABAergic activity in neurofibromatosis 1. Sci Rep 2022; 12:18297. [PMID: 36316421 PMCID: PMC9622815 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-21907-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurofibromatosis 1 (NF1) is a single-gene disorder associated with cognitive phenotypes common to neurodevelopmental conditions such as autism. GABAergic dysregulation underlies working memory impairments seen in NF1. This mechanistic experimental study investigates whether application of anodal transcranial direct current stimulation (atDCS) can modulate GABA and working memory in NF1. Thirty-one NF1 adolescents 11-18 years, were recruited to this single-blind sham-controlled cross-over randomized trial. AtDCS or sham stimulation was applied to the left Dorsolateral Prefrontal Cortex (DLPFC) and MR Spectroscopy was collected before and after intervention in the left DLPFC and occipital cortex. Task-related functional MRI was collected before, during, and after stimulation. Higher baseline GABA+ in the left DLPFC was associated with faster response times on baseline working memory measures. AtDCS was seen to significantly reduced GABA+ and increase brain activation in the left DLPFC as compared to sham stimulation. Task performance was worse in the aTDCS group during stimulation but no group differences in behavioural outcomes were observed at the end of stimulation. Although our study suggests aTDCS modulates inhibitory activity in the DLPFC, further work is needed to determine whether repeated sessions of atDCS and strategies such as alternating current stimulation offer a better therapeutic approach.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shruti Garg
- Division of Neuroscience and Experimental Psychology, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.
- Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services, Royal Manchester Children's Hospital, Central Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Manchester, UK.
| | - Steve Williams
- Division of Informatics, Imaging and Data Sciences, School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - JeYoung Jung
- School of Psychology, Precision Imaging Beacon, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Gorana Pobric
- Division of Neuroscience and Experimental Psychology, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Tulika Nandi
- Wellcome Centre for Integrative Neuroimaging, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Ben Lim
- Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services, Royal Manchester Children's Hospital, Central Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Manchester, UK
| | - Grace Vassallo
- Manchester Centre for Genomic Medicine, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
| | - Jonathan Green
- Division of Neuroscience and Experimental Psychology, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services, Royal Manchester Children's Hospital, Central Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Manchester, UK
| | - D Gareth Evans
- Manchester Centre for Genomic Medicine, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
- Division of Evolution and Genomic Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Charlotte J Stagg
- Wellcome Centre for Integrative Neuroimaging, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Laura M Parkes
- Division of Neuroscience and Experimental Psychology, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- Geoffrey Jefferson Brain Research Centre, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK
| | - Stavros Stivaros
- Division of Informatics, Imaging and Data Sciences, School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- Geoffrey Jefferson Brain Research Centre, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK
- Academic Unit of Paediatric Radiology, Royal Manchester Children's Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Long Y, Cheng Y, Yang J, Yang T, Lai Y. Abeta-induced Presynaptic Release of UBC9 through Extracellular Vesicles involves SNAP23. Neurosci Lett 2022; 785:136771. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2022.136771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2022] [Revised: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 06/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
|
7
|
Noori T, Sureda A, Sobarzo-Sánchez E, Shirooie S. The Role of Natural Products in Treatment of Depressive Disorder. Curr Neuropharmacol 2022; 20:929-949. [PMID: 34979889 PMCID: PMC9881107 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x20666220103140834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2021] [Revised: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 11/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Depressive disorder is one of the most common psychiatric syndromes that, if left untreated, can cause many disturbances in a person's life. Numerous factors are involved in depression, including inflammation, brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), GABAergic system, hypothalamic- pituitary-adrenal (HPA) Axis, monoamine neurotransmitters (serotonin (5-HT), noradrenaline, and dopamine). Common treatments for depression are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, tricyclic antidepressants, and monoamine oxidase inhibitors, but these drugs have several side effects such as anxiety, diarrhea, constipation, weight loss, and sexual dysfunctions. These agents only reduce the symptoms and temporarily reduce the rate of cognitive impairment associated with depression. As a result, extensive research has recently been conducted on the potential use of antidepressant and sedative herbs. According to the available data, herbs used in traditional medicine can be significantly effective in reducing depression, depressive symptoms and improving patients' performance. The present study provides a summary of biomarkers and therapeutic goals of depression and shows that natural products such as saffron or genipin have antidepressant effects. Some of the useful natural products and their mechanisms were evaluated. Data on various herbs and natural isolated compounds reported to prevent and reduce depressive symptoms is also discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tayebeh Noori
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Health Institute, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Antoni Sureda
- Research Group on Community Nutrition and Oxidative Stress (NUCOX) and Health Research Institute of Balearic Islands (IdISBa), University of Balearic Islands-IUNICS, Palma de Mallorca E-07122, Balearic Islands, Spain;,CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBEROBN), Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), 28029, Madrid, Spain
| | - Eduardo Sobarzo-Sánchez
- Instituto de Investigación y Postgrado, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Central de Chile; Chile;,Department of Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago, Spain
| | - Samira Shirooie
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Health Institute, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran;,Address correspondence to this author at the Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Health Institute, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran; E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Li W. Excitation and Inhibition Imbalance in Rett Syndrome. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:825063. [PMID: 35250460 PMCID: PMC8894599 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.825063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
A loss of the excitation/inhibition (E/I) balance in the neural circuit has emerged as a common neuropathological feature in many neurodevelopmental disorders. Rett syndrome (RTT), a prevalent neurodevelopmental disorder that affects 1:10,000-15,000 women globally, is caused by loss-of-function mutations in the Methyl-CpG-binding Protein-2 (Mecp2) gene. E/I imbalance is recognized as the leading cellular and synaptic hallmark that is fundamental to diverse RTT neurological symptoms, including stereotypic hand movements, impaired motor coordination, breathing irregularities, seizures, and learning/memory dysfunctions. E/I balance in RTT is not homogeneously altered but demonstrates brain region and cell type specificity instead. In this review, I elaborate on the current understanding of the loss of E/I balance in a range of brain areas at molecular and cellular levels. I further describe how the underlying cellular mechanisms contribute to the disturbance of the proper E/I ratio. Last, I discuss current pharmacologic innervations for RTT and their role in modifying the E/I balance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wei Li
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Axonal CB1 Receptors Mediate Inhibitory Bouton Formation via cAMP Increase and PKA. J Neurosci 2021; 41:8279-8296. [PMID: 34413209 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.0851-21.2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2021] [Revised: 06/30/2021] [Accepted: 07/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Experience-dependent formation and removal of inhibitory synapses are essential throughout life. For instance, GABAergic synapses are removed to facilitate learning, and strong excitatory activity is accompanied by the formation of inhibitory synapses to maintain coordination between excitation and inhibition. We recently discovered that active dendrites trigger the growth of inhibitory synapses via CB1 receptor-mediated endocannabinoid signaling, but the underlying mechanism remained unclear. Using two-photon microscopy to monitor the formation of individual inhibitory boutons in hippocampal organotypic slices from mice (both sexes), we found that CB1 receptor activation mediated the formation of inhibitory boutons and promoted their subsequent stabilization. Inhibitory bouton formation did not require neuronal activity and was independent of Gi/o-protein signaling, but was directly induced by elevating cAMP levels using forskolin and by activating Gs-proteins using DREADDs. Blocking PKA activity prevented CB1 receptor-mediated inhibitory bouton formation. Our findings reveal that axonal CB1 receptors signal via unconventional downstream pathways and that inhibitory bouton formation is triggered by an increase in axonal cAMP levels. Our results demonstrate an unexpected role for axonal CB1 receptors in axon-specific, and context-dependent, inhibitory synapse formation.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Coordination between excitation and inhibition is required for proper brain function throughout life. It was previously shown that new inhibitory synapses can be formed in response to strong excitation to maintain this coordination, and this was mediated by endocannabinoid signaling via CB1 receptors. As activation of CB1 receptors generally results in the suppression of synaptic transmission, it remained unclear how CB1 receptors can mediate the formation of inhibitory synapses. Here we show that CB1 receptors on inhibitory axons signal via unconventional intracellular pathways and that inhibitory bouton formation is triggered by an increase in axonal cAMP levels and requires PKA activity. Our findings point to a central role for axonal cAMP signaling in activity-dependent inhibitory synapse formation.
Collapse
|
10
|
Morris G, Walder K, Kloiber S, Amminger P, Berk M, Bortolasci CC, Maes M, Puri BK, Carvalho AF. The endocannabinoidome in neuropsychiatry: Opportunities and potential risks. Pharmacol Res 2021; 170:105729. [PMID: 34119623 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2021.105729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2021] [Revised: 05/31/2021] [Accepted: 06/09/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) comprises two cognate endocannabinoid receptors referred to as CB1R and CB2R. ECS dysregulation is apparent in neurodegenerative/neuro-psychiatric disorders including but not limited to schizophrenia, major depressive disorder and potentially bipolar disorder. The aim of this paper is to review mechanisms whereby both receptors may interact with neuro-immune and neuro-oxidative pathways, which play a pathophysiological role in these disorders. CB1R is located in the presynaptic terminals of GABAergic, glutamatergic, cholinergic, noradrenergic and serotonergic neurons where it regulates the retrograde suppression of neurotransmission. CB1R plays a key role in long-term depression, and, to a lesser extent, long-term potentiation, thereby modulating synaptic transmission and mediating learning and memory. Optimal CB1R activity plays an essential neuroprotective role by providing a defense against the development of glutamate-mediated excitotoxicity, which is achieved, at least in part, by impeding AMPA-mediated increase in intracellular calcium overload and oxidative stress. Moreover, CB1R activity enables optimal neuron-glial communication and the function of the neurovascular unit. CB2R receptors are detected in peripheral immune cells and also in central nervous system regions including the striatum, basal ganglia, frontal cortex, hippocampus, amygdala as well as the ventral tegmental area. CB2R upregulation inhibits the presynaptic release of glutamate in several brain regions. CB2R activation also decreases neuroinflammation partly by mediating the transition from a predominantly neurotoxic "M1" microglial phenotype to a more neuroprotective "M2" phenotype. CB1R and CB2R are thus novel drug targets for the treatment of neuro-immune and neuro-oxidative disorders including schizophrenia and affective disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gerwyn Morris
- Deakin University, IMPACT - the Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, Geelong, Australia
| | - Ken Walder
- Deakin University, IMPACT - the Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, Geelong, Australia; Deakin University, Centre for Molecular and Medical Research, School of Medicine, Geelong, Australia
| | - Stefan Kloiber
- Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 33 Ursula Franklin Street, Toronto, ON, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Paul Amminger
- Orygen, Parkville, Victoria, Australia; Centre for Youth Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Michael Berk
- Deakin University, IMPACT - the Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, Geelong, Australia; Orygen, The National Centre of Excellence in Youth Mental Health, Centre for Youth Mental Health, Florey Institute for Neuroscience and Mental Health and the Department of Psychiatry, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Chiara C Bortolasci
- Deakin University, IMPACT - the Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, Geelong, Australia
| | - Michael Maes
- Deakin University, IMPACT - the Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, Geelong, Australia; Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand; Department of Psychiatry, Medical University of Plovdiv, Plovdiv, Bulgaria
| | | | - Andre F Carvalho
- Deakin University, IMPACT - the Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, Geelong, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Hanganu-Opatz IL, Butt SJB, Hippenmeyer S, De Marco García NV, Cardin JA, Voytek B, Muotri AR. The Logic of Developing Neocortical Circuits in Health and Disease. J Neurosci 2021; 41:813-822. [PMID: 33431633 PMCID: PMC7880298 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.1655-20.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2020] [Revised: 12/15/2020] [Accepted: 12/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The sensory and cognitive abilities of the mammalian neocortex are underpinned by intricate columnar and laminar circuits formed from an array of diverse neuronal populations. One approach to determining how interactions between these circuit components give rise to complex behavior is to investigate the rules by which cortical circuits are formed and acquire functionality during development. This review summarizes recent research on the development of the neocortex, from genetic determination in neural stem cells through to the dynamic role that specific neuronal populations play in the earliest circuits of neocortex, and how they contribute to emergent function and cognition. While many of these endeavors take advantage of model systems, consideration will also be given to advances in our understanding of activity in nascent human circuits. Such cross-species perspective is imperative when investigating the mechanisms underlying the dysfunction of early neocortical circuits in neurodevelopmental disorders, so that one can identify targets amenable to therapeutic intervention.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ileana L Hanganu-Opatz
- Institute of Developmental Neurophysiology, Center for Molecular Neurobiology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, 20246, Germany
| | - Simon J B Butt
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy & Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX1 3PT, United Kingdom
| | - Simon Hippenmeyer
- Institute of Science and Technology Austria, Klosterneuburg, 3400, Austria
| | - Natalia V De Marco García
- Center for Neurogenetics, Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York 10021
| | - Jessica A Cardin
- Department of Neuroscience and Kavli Institute for Neuroscience, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut 06520
| | - Bradley Voytek
- University of California San Diego, Department of Cognitive Science, Halıcıoğlu Data Science Institute, Neurosciences Graduate Program, La Jolla, California 92093
- University of California San Diego, Kavli Institute for Brain and Mind, La Jolla, California 92093
| | - Alysson R Muotri
- University of California San Diego, Kavli Institute for Brain and Mind, La Jolla, California 92093
- University of California San Diego, School of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics/Rady Children's Hospital San Diego, Department of Cellular & Molecular Medicine, Center for Academic Research and Training in Anthropogeny, La Jolla, California 92037
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
GABAergic Interneuron and Neurotransmission Are mTOR-Dependently Disturbed in Experimental Focal Cortical Dysplasia. Mol Neurobiol 2020; 58:156-169. [PMID: 32909150 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-020-02086-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2020] [Accepted: 08/21/2020] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Focal cortical dysplasia (FCD) is a major cause for drug-resistant epilepsies. The molecular and cellular mechanisms of epileptogenesis in FCD are still poorly understood. Some studies have suggested that deficiencies of γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) system may play an important role in type II FCD, but it remains controversial. In order to examine whether and how GABAergic interneurons and synaptic function are affected, we generated a somatic mTOR hyperactivation-based mouse model of type II FCD by in utero electroporation, quantified densities of interneurons in the malformed cortices, and recorded miniature inhibitory postsynaptic currents in dysmorphic neurons. We detected 20-25% reduction of GABAergic interneurons within malformed cortices, independent of cortical regions and cell subtypes but proportionate to the decrease of global neuron counts. GABAergic synaptic transmission from interneurons to mTOR hyperactivated dysmorphic neurons was dramatically disrupted, outweighing the decrease of interneuron counts. Postnatal mTOR inhibition partially rescued these alterations of GABAergic system. We also quantified the expression of GABAA receptor, GABA transporter, and chloridion transporter encoding genes and found that their expression was relatively intact within the malformed cortices. Taken together, these results confirmed that GABAergic interneuron and synapse transmission are disturbed profoundly in an mTOR-dependent manner in type II FCD. Our study suggests that postsynaptic mechanisms independent of interneuron reduction or altered expression of GABA synapse genes might be accountable for the impaired GABAergic neurotransmission in type II FCD as well as other mTOR-related epilepsies.
Collapse
|
13
|
Capogna M, Castillo PE, Maffei A. The ins and outs of inhibitory synaptic plasticity: Neuron types, molecular mechanisms and functional roles. Eur J Neurosci 2020; 54:6882-6901. [PMID: 32663353 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.14907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2020] [Revised: 06/30/2020] [Accepted: 07/08/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
GABAergic interneurons are highly diverse, and their synaptic outputs express various forms of plasticity. Compelling evidence indicates that activity-dependent changes of inhibitory synaptic transmission play a significant role in regulating neural circuits critically involved in learning and memory and circuit refinement. Here, we provide an updated overview of inhibitory synaptic plasticity with a focus on the hippocampus and neocortex. To illustrate the diversity of inhibitory interneurons, we discuss the case of two highly divergent interneuron types, parvalbumin-expressing basket cells and neurogliaform cells, which support unique roles on circuit dynamics. We also present recent progress on the molecular mechanisms underlying long-term, activity-dependent plasticity of fast inhibitory transmission. Lastly, we discuss the role of inhibitory synaptic plasticity in neuronal circuits' function. The emerging picture is that inhibitory synaptic transmission in the CNS is extremely diverse, undergoes various mechanistically distinct forms of plasticity and contributes to a much more refined computational role than initially thought. Both the remarkable diversity of inhibitory interneurons and the various forms of plasticity expressed by GABAergic synapses provide an amazingly rich inhibitory repertoire that is central to a variety of complex neural circuit functions, including memory.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marco Capogna
- Department of Biomedicine, Danish National Research Foundation Center of Excellence PROMEMO, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Pablo E Castillo
- Dominck P Purpura Department of Neuroscience, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA.,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Arianna Maffei
- Center for Neural Circuit Dynamics and Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Shin SM, Skaar S, Danielson E, Lee SH. Aberrant expression of S-SCAM causes the loss of GABAergic synapses in hippocampal neurons. Sci Rep 2020; 10:83. [PMID: 31919468 PMCID: PMC6952429 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-57053-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2019] [Accepted: 12/19/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The duplication and deletion mutations of the S-SCAM/MAGI-2 gene are associated with schizophrenia and infantile spasms, respectively. S-SCAM is a unique synaptic scaffolding protein that localizes to both excitatory and GABAergic synapses. However, consequences of aberrant S-SCAM expression on GABAergic synapses is little studied. Here we report the effect of S-SCAM knockdown and overexpression on GABAergic synapses. S-SCAM knockdown in cultured hippocampal neurons caused a drastic loss of both pre- and post-synaptic components of GABAergic synapses, indicating its essential role in GABAergic synapse formation and maintenance. Surprisingly, S-SCAM overexpression also attenuated GABAergic synapses, but the effect is mediated by the loss of postsynaptic GABAA receptors, gephyrin, and neuroligin 2 and does not involve presynaptic component vesicular GABA transporters. Overexpression studies using S-SCAM mutants with various domain deletions indicated that GABAergic synapse loss correlates with their ability to increase excitatory synaptic function. Consistently, AMPA receptor antagonist CNQX or calcineurin inhibitor FK506 abolished the S-SCAM overexpression-induced loss of GABAA receptors, supporting that GABAergic synapse loss by S-SCAM overexpression is due to the activity-induced dispersal of synaptic GABAA receptors. These results suggest that abnormal S-SCAM protein levels disrupt excitation/inhibition balance in neurons, which may explain the pathogenic nature of S-SCAM copy number variations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Seung Min Shin
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical College of Wisconsin, 8701 Watertown Plank Road, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Samantha Skaar
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical College of Wisconsin, 8701 Watertown Plank Road, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Eric Danielson
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical College of Wisconsin, 8701 Watertown Plank Road, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Sang H Lee
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical College of Wisconsin, 8701 Watertown Plank Road, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA. .,Neuroscience Research Center, Medical College of Wisconsin, 8701 Watertown Plank Road, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Wang J, Cauwenberghs G, Broccard FD. Neuromorphic Dynamical Synapses With Reconfigurable Voltage-Gated Kinetics. IEEE Trans Biomed Eng 2019; 67:1831-1840. [PMID: 31647418 DOI: 10.1109/tbme.2019.2948809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Although biological synapses express a large variety of receptors in neuronal membranes, the current hardware implementation of neuromorphic synapses often rely on simple models ignoring the heterogeneity of synaptic transmission. Our objective is to emulate different types of synapses with distinct properties. METHODS Conductance-based chemical and electrical synapses were implemented between silicon neurons on a fully programmable and reconfigurable, biophysically realistic neuromorphic VLSI chip. Different synaptic properties were achieved by configuring on-chip digital parameters for the conductances, reversal potentials, and voltage dependence of the channel kinetics. The measured I-V characteristics of the artificial synapses were compared with biological data. RESULTS We reproduced the response properties of five different types of chemical synapses, including both excitatory ( AMPA, NMDA) and inhibitory ( GABAA, GABAC, glycine) ionotropic receptors. In addition, electrical synapses were implemented in a small network of four silicon neurons. CONCLUSION Our work extends the repertoire of synapse types between silicon neurons, providing greater flexibility for the design and implementation of biologically realistic neural networks on neuromorphic chips. SIGNIFICANCE A higher synaptic heterogeneity in neuromorphic chips is relevant for the hardware implementation of energy-efficient population codes as well as for dynamic clamp applications where neural models are implemented in neuromorphic VLSI hardware.
Collapse
|
16
|
Cutsuridis V. Memory Prosthesis: Is It Time for a Deep Neuromimetic Computing Approach? Front Neurosci 2019; 13:667. [PMID: 31333399 PMCID: PMC6624412 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2019.00667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2019] [Accepted: 06/11/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Memory loss, one of the most dreaded afflictions of the human condition, presents considerable burden on the world's health care system and it is recognized as a major challenge in the elderly. There are only a few neuromodulation treatments for memory dysfunctions. Open loop deep brain stimulation is such a treatment for memory improvement, but with limited success and conflicting results. In recent years closed-loop neuroprosthesis systems able to simultaneously record signals during behavioral tasks and generate with the use of internal neural factors the precise timing of stimulation patterns are presented as attractive alternatives and show promise in memory enhancement and restoration. A few such strides have already been made in both animals and humans, but with limited insights into their mechanisms of action. Here, I discuss why a deep neuromimetic computing approach linking multiple levels of description, mimicking the dynamics of brain circuits, interfaced with recording and stimulating electrodes could enhance the performance of current memory prosthesis systems, shed light into the neurobiology of learning and memory and accelerate the progress of memory prosthesis research. I propose what the necessary components (nodes, structure, connectivity, learning rules, and physiological responses) of such a deep neuromimetic model should be and what type of data are required to train/test its performance, so it can be used as a true substitute of damaged brain areas capable of restoring/enhancing their missing memory formation capabilities. Considerations to neural circuit targeting, tissue interfacing, electrode placement/implantation, and multi-network interactions in complex cognition are also provided.
Collapse
|
17
|
Activity-dependent development of GABAergic synapses. Brain Res 2019; 1707:18-26. [DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2018.11.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2018] [Revised: 11/05/2018] [Accepted: 11/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
|
18
|
Lucchese G, Stahl B. Peptide Sharing Between Viruses and DLX Proteins: A Potential Cross-Reactivity Pathway to Neuropsychiatric Disorders. Front Neurosci 2018; 12:150. [PMID: 29618965 PMCID: PMC5871705 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2018.00150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2017] [Accepted: 02/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The present study seeks to determine potential associations between viral infections and neuropsychiatric diseases. To address this issue, we investigated the peptide commonalities between viruses that have been related to psychiatric and neurological disorders—such as rubella, human immunodeficiency virus, and herpesviruses—and human distal-less homeobox (DLX) proteins expressed in developing brain—namely, DLX1, DLX2, DLX5, and DLX6. Peptide matching analyses revealed a high degree of pentapeptide sharing. From an immunological perspective, this overlap is relevant because pentapeptides are endowed with immunogenicity and antigenicity—that is, they are immune determinants. Moreover, infection-induced immune cross-reactions might have functional, spatial, and temporal implications related to the functions and expression patterns of DLX1 and DLX5 in the fetal and adult human brain. In sum, our data support the hypothesis that viral infections may be linked to neuropsychiatric diseases through autoimmune cross-reactions caused by molecular mimicry between viral proteins and brain-specific DLX self-antigens.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Guglielmo Lucchese
- Brain Language Laboratory, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany.,Department of Neurology, Universitätsmedizin Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Benjamin Stahl
- Department of Neurology, Universitätsmedizin Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany.,Department of Neurology, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany.,Department of Neurophysics, Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences, Leipzig, Germany.,Psychologische Hochschule Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| |
Collapse
|