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Diehl MM, Moscarello JM, Trask S. Behavioral outputs and overlapping circuits between conditional fear and active avoidance. Neurobiol Learn Mem 2024; 213:107943. [PMID: 38821256 DOI: 10.1016/j.nlm.2024.107943] [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: 03/08/2024] [Revised: 05/19/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/02/2024]
Abstract
Aversive learning can produce a wide variety of defensive behavioral responses depending on the circumstances, ranging from reactive responses like freezing to proactive avoidance responses. While most of this initial learning is behaviorally supported by an expectancy of an aversive outcome and neurally supported by activity within the basolateral amygdala, activity in other brain regions become necessary for the execution of defensive strategies that emerge in other aversive learning paradigms such as active avoidance. Here, we review the neural circuits that support both reactive and proactive defensive behaviors that are motivated by aversive learning, and identify commonalities between the neural substrates of these distinct (and often exclusive) behavioral strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria M Diehl
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS, USA
| | | | - Sydney Trask
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA; Purdue Institute for Integrative Neuroscience, West Lafayette, IN, USA.
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Demchuk AM, Esteves IM, Chang H, Sun J, McNaughton BL. Hierarchical Gradients of Encoded Spatial and Sensory Information in the Neocortex Are Attenuated by Dorsal Hippocampal Lesions. J Neurosci 2024; 44:e1619232024. [PMID: 38942472 PMCID: PMC11293447 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.1619-23.2024] [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: 08/21/2023] [Revised: 04/16/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 06/30/2024] Open
Abstract
During navigation, the neocortex actively integrates learned spatial context with current sensory experience to guide behaviors. However, the relative encoding of spatial and sensorimotor information among cortical cells, and whether hippocampal feedback continues to modify these properties after learning, remains poorly understood. Thus, two-photon microscopy of male and female Thy1-GCaMP6s mice was used to longitudinally image neurons spanning superficial retrosplenial cortex and layers II-Va of primary and secondary motor cortices before and after bilateral dorsal hippocampal lesions. During behavior on a familiar cued treadmill, the locations of two obstacles were interchanged to decouple place-tuning from cue-tuning among position-correlated cells with fields at those locations. Subpopulations of place and cue cells each formed interareal gradients such that higher-level cortical regions exhibited higher fractions of place cells, whereas lower-level regions exhibited higher fractions of cue cells. Position-correlated cells in the motor cortex also formed translaminar gradients; more superficial cells were more likely to exhibit fields and were more sparsely and precisely tuned than deeper cells. After dorsal hippocampal lesions, a neural representation of the learned environment persisted, but retrosplenial cortex exhibited significantly increased cue-tuning, and, in motor cortices, both position-correlated cell recruitment and population activity at the unstable obstacle locations became more homogeneously elevated across laminae. Altogether, these results support that the hippocampus continues to modulate cortical responses in familiar environments, and the relative impact of descending feedback obeys hierarchical interareal and interlaminar gradients opposite to the flow of ascending sensory inputs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aubrey M Demchuk
- Canadian Centre for Behavioural Neuroscience, Department of Neuroscience, University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, Alberta T1K 3M4, Canada
| | - Ingrid M Esteves
- Canadian Centre for Behavioural Neuroscience, Department of Neuroscience, University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, Alberta T1K 3M4, Canada
| | - HaoRan Chang
- Canadian Centre for Behavioural Neuroscience, Department of Neuroscience, University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, Alberta T1K 3M4, Canada
| | - Jianjun Sun
- Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary Foothills, Calgary, Alberta T2N 4N1, Canada
| | - Bruce L McNaughton
- Canadian Centre for Behavioural Neuroscience, Department of Neuroscience, University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, Alberta T1K 3M4, Canada
- Department of Neurobiology and Behaviour, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, California 92697
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3
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Li JS, Tun SM, Ficek-Tani B, Xu W, Wang S, Horien CL, Toyonaga T, Nuli SS, Zeiss CJ, Powers AR, Zhao Y, Mormino EC, Fredericks CA. Medial amygdalar tau is associated with mood symptoms in preclinical Alzheimer's disease. BIOLOGICAL PSYCHIATRY. COGNITIVE NEUROSCIENCE AND NEUROIMAGING 2024:S2451-9022(24)00200-3. [PMID: 39059466 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpsc.2024.07.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2024] [Revised: 07/01/2024] [Accepted: 07/15/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND While the amygdala receives early tau deposition in Alzheimer's disease (AD) and is involved in social and emotional processing, the relationship between amygdalar tau and early neuropsychiatric symptoms in AD is unknown. We sought to determine whether focal tau binding in the amygdala and abnormal amygdalar connectivity were detectable in a preclinical AD cohort and identify relationships between these and self-reported mood symptoms. METHODS We examined n=598 individuals (n=347 amyloid-positive (58% female), n=251 amyloid-negative (62% female); subset into tau PET and fMRI cohorts) from the A4 Study. In the tau PET cohort, we used amygdalar segmentations to examine representative nuclei from three functional divisions of the amygdala. We analyzed between-group differences in division-specific tau binding in the amygdala in preclinical AD. We conducted seed-based functional connectivity analyses from each division in the fMRI cohort. Finally, we conducted exploratory post-hoc correlation analyses between neuroimaging biomarkers of interest and anxiety and depression scores. RESULTS Amyloid-positive individuals demonstrated increased tau binding in medial and lateral amygdala, and tau binding in these regions was associated with mood symptoms. Across amygdalar divisions, amyloid-positive individuals had relatively higher regional connectivity from amygdala to other temporal regions, insula, and orbitofrontal cortex, but medial amygdala to retrosplenial cortex was lower. Medial amygdala to retrosplenial connectivity was negatively associated with anxiety symptoms, as was retrosplenial tau. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest that preclinical tau deposition in the amygdala and associated changes in functional connectivity may relate to early mood symptoms in AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joyce S Li
- Department of Neurology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT
| | - Samantha M Tun
- Department of Neurology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT
| | | | - Wanwan Xu
- Department of Biostatistics, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT
| | - Selena Wang
- Department of Biostatistics, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT
| | | | - Takuya Toyonaga
- Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT
| | | | - Caroline J Zeiss
- Department of Comparative Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT
| | - Albert R Powers
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT
| | - Yize Zhao
- Department of Biostatistics, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT
| | - Elizabeth C Mormino
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
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4
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Cheng HY, Fournier DI, Todd TP. Retrosplenial cortex and aversive conditioning. Front Behav Neurosci 2024; 18:1341705. [PMID: 38983870 PMCID: PMC11232490 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2024.1341705] [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: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 07/11/2024] Open
Abstract
The retrosplenial cortex (RSC) is well-known for its contribution to episodic memory, as well as contextual and spatial learning and memory. However, two literatures have also emerged examining the role of the RSC in aversive conditioning. The purpose of this manuscript is to review, and attempt to integrate, these two literatures. We focus on studies in which discrete cues, such as tones, predict the occurrence of aversive outcomes, such as mild shocks. Using both electrophysiological recordings and lesion methods, the first literature has examined RSC contributions to discriminative avoidance conditioning. The second, and more recent literature, has focused on the role of the RSC in Pavlovian fear conditioning. We discuss both literatures in terms of the type of information processed by the RSC, the role of the RSC in memory storage, and how the aversive conditioning literature might be consistent with a role for the RSC in contextual learning and memory.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Travis P. Todd
- Department of Psychological Science, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, United States
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Li JS, Tun SM, Ficek-Tani B, Xu W, Wang S, Horien CL, Toyonaga T, Nuli SS, Zeiss CJ, Powers AR, Zhao Y, Mormino EC, Fredericks CA. Medial amygdalar tau is associated with anxiety symptoms in preclinical Alzheimer's disease. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.06.03.597160. [PMID: 38895308 PMCID: PMC11185761 DOI: 10.1101/2024.06.03.597160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND While the amygdala receives early tau deposition in Alzheimer's disease (AD) and is involved in social and emotional processing, the relationship between amygdalar tau and early neuropsychiatric symptoms in AD is unknown. We sought to determine whether focal tau binding in the amygdala and abnormal amygdalar connectivity were detectable in a preclinical AD cohort and identify relationships between these and self-reported mood symptoms. METHODS We examined n=598 individuals (n=347 amyloid-positive (58% female), n=251 amyloid-negative (62% female); subset into tau PET and fMRI cohorts) from the A4 Study. In our tau PET cohort, we used amygdalar segmentations to examine representative nuclei from three functional divisions of the amygdala. We analyzed between-group differences in division-specific tau binding in the amygdala in preclinical AD. We conducted seed-based functional connectivity analyses from each division in the fMRI cohort. Finally, we conducted exploratory post-hoc correlation analyses between neuroimaging biomarkers of interest and anxiety and depression scores. RESULTS Amyloid-positive individuals demonstrated increased tau binding in medial and lateral amygdala (F(4,442)=14.61, p=0.00045; F(4,442)=5.83, p=0.024, respectively). Across amygdalar divisions, amyloid-positive individuals had relatively increased regional connectivity from amygdala to other temporal regions, insula, and orbitofrontal cortex. There was an interaction by amyloid group between tau binding in the medial and lateral amygdala and anxiety. Medial amygdala to retrosplenial connectivity negatively correlated with anxiety symptoms (rs=-0.103, p=0.015). CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest that preclinical tau deposition in the amygdala may result in meaningful changes in functional connectivity which may predispose patients to mood symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joyce S Li
- Department of Neurology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT
| | - Samantha M Tun
- Department of Neurology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT
| | | | - Wanwan Xu
- Department of Biostatistics, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT
| | - Selena Wang
- Department of Biostatistics, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT
| | | | - Takuya Toyonaga
- Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT
| | | | - Caroline J Zeiss
- Department of Comparative Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT
| | - Albert R Powers
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT
| | - Yize Zhao
- Department of Biostatistics, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT
| | - Elizabeth C Mormino
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
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Sheppard PAS, Oomen CA, Bussey TJ, Saksida LM. The Granular Retrosplenial Cortex Is Necessary in Male Rats for Object-Location Associative Learning and Memory, But Not Spatial Working Memory or Visual Discrimination and Reversal, in the Touchscreen Operant Chamber. eNeuro 2024; 11:ENEURO.0120-24.2024. [PMID: 38844347 PMCID: PMC11208985 DOI: 10.1523/eneuro.0120-24.2024] [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: 03/18/2024] [Revised: 05/28/2024] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024] Open
Abstract
The retrosplenial cortex (RSC) is a hub of diverse afferent and efferent projections thought to be involved in associative learning. RSC shows early pathology in mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer's disease (AD), which impairs associative learning. To understand and develop therapies for diseases such as AD, animal models are essential. Given the importance of human RSC in object-location associative learning and the success of object-location associative paradigms in human studies and in the clinic, it would be of considerable value to establish a translational model of object-location learning for the rodent. For this reason, we sought to test the role of RSC in object-location learning in male rats using the object-location paired-associates learning (PAL) touchscreen task. First, increased cFos immunoreactivity was observed in granular RSC following PAL training when compared with extended pretraining controls. Following this, RSC lesions following PAL acquisition were used to explore the necessity of the RSC in object-location associative learning and memory and two tasks involving only one modality: trial-unique nonmatching-to-location for spatial working memory and pairwise visual discrimination/reversal. RSC lesions impaired both memory for learned paired-associates and learning of new object-location associations but did not affect performance in either the spatial or visual single-modality tasks. These findings provide evidence that RSC is necessary for object-location learning and less so for learning and memory involving the individual modalities therein.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul A S Sheppard
- Robarts Research Institute, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, ON N6A 5B7, Canada
| | - Charlotte A Oomen
- Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1TN, United Kingdom
- MRC and Wellcome Trust Behavioural and Clinical Neurosciences Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1TN, United Kingdom
| | - Timothy J Bussey
- Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1TN, United Kingdom
- MRC and Wellcome Trust Behavioural and Clinical Neurosciences Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1TN, United Kingdom
| | - Lisa M Saksida
- Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1TN, United Kingdom
- MRC and Wellcome Trust Behavioural and Clinical Neurosciences Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1TN, United Kingdom
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Rogers SA, Heller EA, Corder G. Psilocybin-enhanced fear extinction linked to bidirectional modulation of cortical ensembles. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.02.04.578811. [PMID: 38352491 PMCID: PMC10862786 DOI: 10.1101/2024.02.04.578811] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
The serotonin 2 receptor (5HT2R) agonist psilocybin displays rapid and persistent therapeutic efficacy across neuropsychiatric disorders characterized by cognitive inflexibility. However, the impact of psilocybin on patterns of neural activity underlying sustained changes in behavioral flexibility has not been characterized. To test the hypothesis that psilocybin enhances behavioral flexibility by altering activity in cortical neural ensembles, we performed longitudinal single-cell calcium imaging in the retrosplenial cortex across a five-day trace fear learning and extinction assay. A single dose of psilocybin induced ensemble turnover between fear learning and extinction days while oppositely modulating activity in fear- and extinction- active neurons. The acute suppression of fear-active neurons and delayed recruitment of extinction-active neurons were predictive of psilocybin-enhanced fear extinction. A computational model revealed that acute inhibition of fear-active neurons by psilocybin is sufficient to explain its neural and behavioral effects days later. These results align with our hypothesis and introduce a new mechanism involving the suppression of fear-active populations in the retrosplenial cortex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie A. Rogers
- Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, Mahoney Institute for Neurosciences, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Elizabeth A. Heller
- Department of Systems Pharmacology and Translational Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Gregory Corder
- Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, Mahoney Institute for Neurosciences, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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McElroy DL, Sabir H, Glass AE, Greba Q, Howland JG. The anterior retrosplenial cortex is required for short-term object in place recognition memory retrieval: Role of ionotropic glutamate receptors in male and female Long-Evans rats. Eur J Neurosci 2024; 59:2260-2275. [PMID: 38411499 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.16284] [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: 09/25/2023] [Revised: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/28/2024]
Abstract
The anterior retrosplenial cortex (aRSC) integrates multimodal sensory information into cohesive associative recognition memories. Little is known about how information is integrated during different learning phases (i.e., encoding and retrieval). Additionally, sex differences are observed in performance of some visuospatial memory tasks; however, inconsistent findings warrant more research. We conducted three experiments using the 1-h delay object-in-place (1-h OiP) test to assess recognition memory retrieval in male and female Long-Evans rats. (i) We found both sexes performed equally in three repeated 1-h OiP test sessions. (ii) We showed infusions of a mixture of muscimol/baclofen (GABAA/B receptor agonists) into the aRSC ~15-min prior to the test phase disrupted 1-h OiP in both sexes. (iii) We assessed the role of aRSC ionotropic glutamate receptors in 1-h OiP retrieval using another squad of cannulated rats and confirmed that infusions of either the competitive AMPA/Kainate receptor antagonist CNQX (3 mM) or competitive NMDA receptor antagonist AP-5 (30 mM) (volumes = 0.50 uL/side) significantly impaired 1-h OiP retrieval in both sexes compared to controls. Taken together, findings challenge reported sex differences and clearly establish a role for aRSC ionotropic glutamate receptors in short-term visuospatial recognition memory retrieval. Thus, modulating neural activity in the aRSC may alleviate some memory processing impairments in related disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan L McElroy
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology, and Pharmacology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - Hassaan Sabir
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology, and Pharmacology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - Aiden E Glass
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology, and Pharmacology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - Quentin Greba
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology, and Pharmacology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - John G Howland
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology, and Pharmacology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
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Krasne FB, Fanselow MS. Remote memory in a Bayesian model of context fear conditioning (BaconREM). Front Behav Neurosci 2024; 17:1295969. [PMID: 38515786 PMCID: PMC10955142 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2023.1295969] [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: 09/17/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Here, we propose a model of remote memory (BaconREM), which is an extension of a previously published Bayesian model of context fear learning (BACON) that accounts for many aspects of recently learned context fear. BaconREM simulates most known phenomenology of remote context fear as studied in rodents and makes new predictions. In particular, it predicts the well-known observation that fear that was conditioned to a recently encoded context becomes hippocampus-independent and shows much-enhanced generalization ("hyper-generalization") when systems consolidation occurs (i.e., when memory becomes remote). However, the model also predicts that there should be circumstances under which the generalizability of remote fear may not increase or even decrease. It also predicts the established finding that a "reminder" exposure to a feared context can abolish hyper-generalization while at the same time making remote fear again hippocampus-dependent. This observation has in the past been taken to suggest that reminders facilitate access to detail memory that remains permanently in the hippocampus even after systems consolidation is complete. However, the present model simulates this result even though it totally moves all the contextual memory that it retains to the neo-cortex when context fear becomes remote.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franklin B. Krasne
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
- Brain Research Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Michael S. Fanselow
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
- Brain Research Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
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10
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Jeffery KJ. The mosaic structure of the mammalian cognitive map. Learn Behav 2024; 52:19-34. [PMID: 38231426 PMCID: PMC10923978 DOI: 10.3758/s13420-023-00618-9] [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] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2024]
Abstract
The cognitive map, proposed by Tolman in the 1940s, is a hypothetical internal representation of space constructed by the brain to enable an animal to undertake flexible spatial behaviors such as navigation. The subsequent discovery of place cells in the hippocampus of rats suggested that such a map-like representation does exist, and also provided a tool with which to explore its properties. Single-neuron studies in rodents conducted in small singular spaces have suggested that the map is founded on a metric framework, preserving distances and directions in an abstract representational format. An open question is whether this metric structure pertains over extended, often complexly structured real-world space. The data reviewed here suggest that this is not the case. The emerging picture is that instead of being a single, unified construct, the map is a mosaic of fragments that are heterogeneous, variably metric, multiply scaled, and sometimes laid on top of each other. Important organizing factors within and between fragments include boundaries, context, compass direction, and gravity. The map functions not to provide a comprehensive and precise rendering of the environment but rather to support adaptive behavior, tailored to the species and situation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kate J Jeffery
- School of Psychology and Neuroscience, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK.
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Met Hoxha E, Robinson PK, Greer KM, Trask S. Generalization and discrimination of inhibitory avoidance differentially engage anterior and posterior retrosplenial subregions. Front Behav Neurosci 2024; 18:1327858. [PMID: 38304851 PMCID: PMC10832059 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2024.1327858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction In a variety of behavioral procedures animals will show selective fear responding in shock-associated contexts, but not in other contexts. However, several factors can lead to generalized fear behavior, where responding is no longer constrained to the conditioning context and will transfer to novel contexts. Methods Here, we assessed memory generalization using an inhibitory avoidance paradigm to determine if generalized avoidance behavior engages the retrosplenial cortex (RSC). Male and female Long Evans rats received inhibitory avoidance training prior to testing in the same context or a shifted context in two distinct rooms; one room that had fluorescent lighting (Light) and one that had red LED lighting (Dark). Results We found that animals tested in a light context maintained context-specificity; animals tested in the same context as training showed longer latencies to cross and animals tested in the shifted context showed shorter latencies to cross. However, animals tested in the dark generalized their avoidance behavior; animals tested in the same context and animals tested in the shifted context showed similarly-high latencies to cross. We next examined expression of the immediate early gene zif268 and perineuronal nets (PNNs) following testing and found that while activity in the basolateral amygdala corresponded with overall levels of avoidance behaviors, anterior RSC (aRSC) activity corresponded with learned avoidance generally, but posterior RSC (pRSC) activity seemed to correspond with generalized memory. PNN reduction in the RSC was associated with memory formation and retrieval, suggesting a role for PNNs in synaptic plasticity. Further, PNNs did not reduce in the RSC in animals who showed a generalized avoidance behavior, in line with their hypothesized role in memory consolidation. Discussion These findings suggest that there is differential engagement of retrosplenial subregions along the rostrocaudal axis to generalization and discrimination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erisa Met Hoxha
- Purdue University Department of Psychological Sciences, West Lafayette, IN, United States
| | - Payton K Robinson
- Purdue University Department of Psychological Sciences, West Lafayette, IN, United States
| | - Kaitlyn M Greer
- Purdue University Department of Psychological Sciences, West Lafayette, IN, United States
| | - Sydney Trask
- Purdue University Department of Psychological Sciences, West Lafayette, IN, United States
- Purdue University Institute for Integrative Neuroscience, West Lafayette, IN, United States
- Purdue University Center on Aging and the Life Course, West Lafayette, IN, United States
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Jin B, Gongwer MW, Ohanian L, Holden-Wingate L, Le B, Darmawan A, Nakayama Y, Rueda Mora SA, DeNardo LA. A developmental brain-wide screen identifies retrosplenial cortex as a key player in the emergence of persistent memory. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.01.07.574554. [PMID: 38260633 PMCID: PMC10802387 DOI: 10.1101/2024.01.07.574554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
Memories formed early in life are short-lived while those formed later persist. Recent work revealed that infant memories are stored in a latent state. But why they fail to be retrieved is poorly understood. Here we investigated brain-wide circuit mechanisms underlying infantile amnesia in mice. We performed a screen that combined activity-dependent neuronal tagging at different postnatal ages, tissue clearing and light sheet microscopy. We observed striking developmental transitions in the organization of fear memory networks and changes in the activity and functional connectivity of the retrosplenial cortex (RSP) that aligned with the emergence of persistent memory. 7 days after learning, chemogenetic reactivation of tagged RSP ensembles enhanced memory in adults but not in infants. But after 33 days, reactivating infant-tagged RSP ensembles recovered forgotten memories. These studies show that RSP ensembles store latent infant memories, reveal the time course of RSP functional maturation, and suggest that immature RSP functional networks contribute to infantile amnesia.
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Nachtigall EG, de C Myskiw J, Izquierdo I, Furini CRG. Cellular mechanisms of contextual fear memory reconsolidation: Role of hippocampal SFKs, TrkB receptors and GluN2B-containing NMDA receptors. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2024; 241:61-73. [PMID: 37700085 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-023-06463-y] [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: 01/10/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/14/2023]
Abstract
Memories are stored into long-term representations through a process that depends on protein synthesis. However, a consolidated memory is not static and inflexible and can be reactivated under certain circumstances, the retrieval is able to reactivate memories and destabilize them engaging a process of restabilization known as reconsolidation. Although the molecular mechanisms that mediate fear memory reconsolidation are not entirely known, so here we investigated the molecular mechanisms in the hippocampus involved in contextual fear conditioning memory (CFC) reconsolidation in male Wistar rats. We demonstrated that the blockade of Src family kinases (SFKs), GluN2B-containing NMDA receptors and TrkB receptors (TrkBR) in the CA1 region of the hippocampus immediately after the reactivation session impaired contextual fear memory reconsolidation. These impairments were blocked by the neurotrophin BDNF and the NMDAR agonist, D-Serine. Considering that the study of the link between synaptic proteins is crucial for understanding memory processes, targeting the reconsolidation process may provide new ways of disrupting maladaptive memories, such as those seen in post-traumatic stress disorder. Here we provide new insights into the cellular mechanisms involved in contextual fear memory reconsolidation, demonstrating that SFKs, GluN2B-containing NMDAR, and TrkBR are necessary for the reconsolidation process. Our findings suggest a link between BDNF and SFKs and GluN2B-containing NMDAR as well as a link between NMDAR and SFKs and TrkBR in fear memory reconsolidation. These preliminary pharmacological findings provide new evidence of the mechanisms involved in the reconsolidation of fear memory and have the potential to contribute to the development of treatments for psychiatric disorders involving maladaptive memories.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eduarda G Nachtigall
- Laboratory of Cognition and Memory Neurobiology, Brain Institute, Pontifical Catholic University of Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Av. Ipiranga, 6690 - 3rd floor, Porto Alegre, RS, 90610-000, Brazil
- Memory Center, Brain Institute, Pontifical Catholic University of Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Av. Ipiranga, 6690 - 2nd floor - HSL, Porto Alegre, RS, 90610-000, Brazil
| | - Jociane de C Myskiw
- Memory Center, Brain Institute, Pontifical Catholic University of Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Av. Ipiranga, 6690 - 2nd floor - HSL, Porto Alegre, RS, 90610-000, Brazil
| | - Ivan Izquierdo
- Memory Center, Brain Institute, Pontifical Catholic University of Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Av. Ipiranga, 6690 - 2nd floor - HSL, Porto Alegre, RS, 90610-000, Brazil
| | - Cristiane R G Furini
- Laboratory of Cognition and Memory Neurobiology, Brain Institute, Pontifical Catholic University of Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Av. Ipiranga, 6690 - 3rd floor, Porto Alegre, RS, 90610-000, Brazil.
- Memory Center, Brain Institute, Pontifical Catholic University of Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Av. Ipiranga, 6690 - 2nd floor - HSL, Porto Alegre, RS, 90610-000, Brazil.
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14
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Laing BT, Anderson MS, Bonaventura J, Jayan A, Sarsfield S, Gajendiran A, Michaelides M, Aponte Y. Anterior hypothalamic parvalbumin neurons are glutamatergic and promote escape behavior. Curr Biol 2023; 33:3215-3228.e7. [PMID: 37490921 PMCID: PMC10529150 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2023.06.070] [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: 09/21/2022] [Revised: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 07/27/2023]
Abstract
The anterior hypothalamic area (AHA) is a critical structure for defensive responding. Here, we identified a cluster of parvalbumin-expressing neurons in the AHA (AHAPV) that are glutamatergic with fast-spiking properties and send axonal projections to the dorsal premammillary nucleus (PMD). Using in vivo functional imaging, optogenetics, and behavioral assays, we determined the role of these AHAPV neurons in regulating behaviors essential for survival. We observed that AHAPV neuronal activity significantly increases when mice are exposed to a predator, and in a real-time place preference assay, we found that AHAPV neuron photoactivation is aversive. Moreover, activation of both AHAPV neurons and the AHAPV → PMD pathway triggers escape responding during a predator-looming test. Furthermore, escape responding is impaired after AHAPV neuron ablation, and anxiety-like behavior as measured by the open field and elevated plus maze assays does not seem to be affected by AHAPV neuron ablation. Finally, whole-brain metabolic mapping using positron emission tomography combined with AHAPV neuron photoactivation revealed discrete activation of downstream areas involved in arousal, affective, and defensive behaviors including the amygdala and the substantia nigra. Our results indicate that AHAPV neurons are a functional glutamatergic circuit element mediating defensive behaviors, thus expanding the identity of genetically defined neurons orchestrating fight-or-flight responses. Together, our work will serve as a foundation for understanding neuropsychiatric disorders triggered by escape such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
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Affiliation(s)
- Brenton T Laing
- Neuronal Circuits and Behavior Section, National Institute on Drug Abuse Intramural Research Program, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD 21224-6823, USA
| | - Megan S Anderson
- Neuronal Circuits and Behavior Section, National Institute on Drug Abuse Intramural Research Program, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD 21224-6823, USA
| | - Jordi Bonaventura
- Biobehavioral Imaging and Molecular Neuropsychopharmacology Unit, National Institute on Drug Abuse Intramural Research Program, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD 21224-6823, USA
| | - Aishwarya Jayan
- Neuronal Circuits and Behavior Section, National Institute on Drug Abuse Intramural Research Program, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD 21224-6823, USA
| | - Sarah Sarsfield
- Neuronal Circuits and Behavior Section, National Institute on Drug Abuse Intramural Research Program, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD 21224-6823, USA
| | - Anjali Gajendiran
- Neuronal Circuits and Behavior Section, National Institute on Drug Abuse Intramural Research Program, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD 21224-6823, USA
| | - Michael Michaelides
- Biobehavioral Imaging and Molecular Neuropsychopharmacology Unit, National Institute on Drug Abuse Intramural Research Program, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD 21224-6823, USA; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Yeka Aponte
- Neuronal Circuits and Behavior Section, National Institute on Drug Abuse Intramural Research Program, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD 21224-6823, USA; The Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA.
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15
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Nachtigall EG, D R de Freitas J, de C Myskiw J, R G Furini C. Role of hippocampal Wnt signaling pathways on contextual fear memory reconsolidation. Neuroscience 2023:S0306-4522(23)00248-8. [PMID: 37286160 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2023.05.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2022] [Revised: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 05/27/2023] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Memories already consolidated when reactivated return to a labile state and can be modified, this process is known as reconsolidation. It is known the Wnt signaling pathways can modulate hippocampal synaptic plasticity as well as learning and memory. Yet, Wnt signaling pathways interact with NMDA (N-methyl-D-aspartate) receptors. However, whether canonical Wnt/β-catenin and non-canonical Wnt/Ca2+ signaling pathways are required in the CA1 region of hippocampus for contextual fear memory reconsolidation remains unclear. So, here we verified that the inhibition of canonical Wnt/β-catenin pathway with DKK1 (Dickkopf-1) into CA1 impaired the reconsolidation of contextual fear conditioning (CFC) memory when administered immediately and 2h after reactivation session but not 6h later, while the inhibition of non-canonical Wnt/Ca2+ signaling pathway with SFRP1 (Secreted frizzled-related protein-1) into CA1 immediately after reactivation session had no effect. Moreover, the impairment induced by DKK1 was blocked by the administration of the agonist of the NMDA receptors glycine site, D-Serine, immediately and 2h after reactivation session. We found that hippocampal canonical Wnt/β-catenin is necessary to the reconsolidation of CFC memory at least two hours after reactivation, while non-canonical Wnt/Ca2+ signaling pathway is not involved in this process and, that there is a link between Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway and NMDA receptors. In view of this, this study provides new evidence regarding the neural mechanisms underlying contextual fear memory reconsolidation and contributes to provide a new possible target for the treatment of fear related disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eduarda G Nachtigall
- Laboratory of Cognition and Memory Neurobiology, Brain Institute, Pontifical Catholic University of Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Av. Ipiranga, 6690 - Bldg. 63, 3(rd) floor, 90610-000, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Júlia D R de Freitas
- Laboratory of Cognition and Memory Neurobiology, Brain Institute, Pontifical Catholic University of Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Av. Ipiranga, 6690 - Bldg. 63, 3(rd) floor, 90610-000, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Jociane de C Myskiw
- Psychobiology and Neurocomputation Laboratory (LPBNC), Department of Biophysics, Institute of Biosciences, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS). Av. Bento Gonçalves, 9500, Bldg. 43422, room 208A, 91501-970, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Cristiane R G Furini
- Laboratory of Cognition and Memory Neurobiology, Brain Institute, Pontifical Catholic University of Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Av. Ipiranga, 6690 - Bldg. 63, 3(rd) floor, 90610-000, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil; Institute of Geriatrics and Gerontology, Pontifical Catholic University of Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Av. Ipiranga, 6681 - Bldg. 40, 8(th) floor, 90610-000, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.
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16
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Brunswick CA, Baldwin DJ, Bodinayake KK, McKenna AR, Lo CY, Bellfy L, Urban MW, Stuart EM, Murakami S, Smies CW, Kwapis JL. The clock gene Per1 is necessary in the retrosplenial cortex-but not in the suprachiasmatic nucleus-for incidental learning in young and aging male mice. Neurobiol Aging 2023; 126:77-90. [PMID: 36958103 PMCID: PMC10106450 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurobiolaging.2023.02.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2022] [Revised: 02/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/18/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023]
Abstract
Aging impairs both circadian rhythms and memory, though the relationship between these impairments is not fully understood. Circadian rhythms are largely dictated by clock genes within the body's central pacemaker, the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN), though these genes are also expressed in local clocks throughout the body. As circadian rhythms can directly affect memory performance, one possibility is that memory deficits observed with age are downstream of global circadian rhythm disruptions stemming from the SCN. Here, we demonstrate that expression of clock gene Period1 within a memory-relevant cortical structure, the retrosplenial cortex (RSC), is necessary for incidental learning, and that age-related disruption of Period1 within the RSC-but not necessarily the SCN-contributes to cognitive decline. These data expand the known functions of clock genes beyond maintaining circadian rhythms and suggests that age-associated changes in clock gene expression modulates circadian rhythms and memory performance in a brain region-dependent manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chad A Brunswick
- Department of Biology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA
| | - Derek J Baldwin
- Department of Biology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA
| | - Kasuni K Bodinayake
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA
| | | | - Chen-Yu Lo
- Department of Biology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA
| | - Lauren Bellfy
- Department of Biology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA
| | - Mark W Urban
- Department of Biology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA
| | - Emily M Stuart
- Department of Biology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA
| | - Shoko Murakami
- Department of Biology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA
| | - Chad W Smies
- Department of Biology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA
| | - Janine L Kwapis
- Department of Biology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA.
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17
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Ehtezazi T, Rahman K, Davies R, Leach AG. The Pathological Effects of Circulating Hydrophobic Bile Acids in Alzheimer's Disease. J Alzheimers Dis Rep 2023; 7:173-211. [PMID: 36994114 PMCID: PMC10041467 DOI: 10.3233/adr-220071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent clinical studies have revealed that the serum levels of toxic hydrophobic bile acids (deoxy cholic acid, lithocholic acid [LCA], and glycoursodeoxycholic acid) are significantly higher in patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD) and amnestic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI) when compared to control subjects. The elevated serum bile acids may be the result of hepatic peroxisomal dysfunction. Circulating hydrophobic bile acids are able to disrupt the blood-brain barrier and promote the formation of amyloid-β plaques through enhancing the oxidation of docosahexaenoic acid. Hydrophobic bile acid may find their ways into the neurons via the apical sodium-dependent bile acid transporter. It has been shown that hydrophobic bile acids impose their pathological effects by activating farnesoid X receptor and suppressing bile acid synthesis in the brain, blocking NMDA receptors, lowering brain oxysterol levels, and interfering with 17β-estradiol actions such as LCA by binding to E2 receptors (molecular modelling data exclusive to this paper). Hydrophobic bile acids may interfere with the sonic hedgehog signaling through alteration of cell membrane rafts and reducing brain 24(S)-hydroxycholesterol. This article will 1) analyze the pathological roles of circulating hydrophobic bile acids in the brain, 2) propose therapeutic approaches, and 3) conclude that consideration be given to reducing/monitoring toxic bile acid levels in patients with AD or aMCI, prior/in combination with other treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Touraj Ehtezazi
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, UK
| | - Khalid Rahman
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, UK
| | - Rhys Davies
- The Walton Centre, NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, UK
| | - Andrew G Leach
- School of Pharmacy, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
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18
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Kant D, Jha SK. Compensatory Contextual Fear Memory Pathways Develop in the Infralimbic Cortex within 3 Days after the First Test in the Absence of the Dorsal Hippocampus. ACS Chem Neurosci 2023; 14:619-627. [PMID: 36748948 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.2c00407] [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: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The dorsal hippocampus (DH) is primarily involved in the formation of contextual fear-conditioned (CxFC) memory. However, CxFC memory can be formed even in the absence of the DH. In addition to the DH, the infralimbic cortex (IL), a sub-region of the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC), also plays an important role in the consolidation of CxFC memory. However, role of IL in the development of compensatory CxFC memory is not known. Here, we have examined (a) the development of the compensatory circuitry of CxFC memory within 3 days after the first test in the absence of the DH and (b) the role of IL in the induction of compensatory CxFC memory in the absence of the DH. The DH-lesioned rats re-trained for CxFC 1 day after the first testing exhibited significantly less freezing compared to the control group. However, the DH-lesioned rats, re-trained for CxFC 3 days after the first testing, showed a robust freezing response. It suggests that the fully functional compensatory circuitry of contextual fear memory develops after multiple training separated by 3 days. Furthermore, we observed that reversible inactivation of the IL of the DH-lesioned rats during the first training waned the formation of compensatory CxFC. It suggests that (a) the IL receives contextual fear memory information during the first trial in the absence of the DH and (b) perturbation in fear memory information encoding in the IL during the first trial impairs the development of the compensatory network in the absence of the DH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deepika Kant
- School of Life Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi 110067, India
| | - Sushil K Jha
- School of Life Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi 110067, India
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19
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Inoue R, Ni X, Mori H. Blockade of D-serine signaling and adult hippocampal neurogenesis attenuates remote contextual fear memory following multiple memory retrievals in male mice. Front Neurosci 2023; 16:1030702. [PMID: 36685240 PMCID: PMC9845639 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.1030702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The retrieval of fear memories induces two opposing processes, reconsolidation, and extinction. The memory reconsolidation is an active process that involves gene expression and updates an existing memory. It is hypothesized that blockade of reconsolidation by manipulating the neurobiological factors, which are mechanistically involved in the process, could weaken or disrupt the original fear memory. The N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor and hippocampal neurogenesis play crucial roles in hippocampus-dependent memory processes, including reconsolidation. Using contextual fear conditioning paradigm with multiple retrievals, we attempted to weaken the original contextual fear memory by repeatedly disrupting retrieval-induced reconsolidation via downregulation of NMDA receptor signaling and inhibition of neurogenesis. In the first experiment, prior to fear conditioning, NMDA receptor signaling was downregulated by the genetic reduction of its co-agonist, D-serine, and the neurogenesis was dampened by focal X-ray irradiation on the hippocampus. We found that simultaneous D-serine reduction and neurogenesis dampening resulted in a progressive decrease in freezing following each retrieval, leading to an attenuation of remote contextual fear memory on day 28. In the second experiment using the same behavioral protocols, after conditioning, pharmacological approaches were conducted to simultaneously block D-serine signaling and neurogenesis, resulting in a similar suppressive effect on the remote fear memory. The present findings provide insights for understanding the role of D-serine-mediated NMDA receptor signaling and neurogenesis in memory retrieval and the maintenance of remote fear memory, and improving the efficacy of exposure-based therapy for the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
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Affiliation(s)
- Ran Inoue
- Department of Molecular Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toyama, Toyama, Japan,Research Center for Idling Brain Science, University of Toyama, Toyama, Japan
| | - Xiance Ni
- Department of Molecular Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toyama, Toyama, Japan,Graduate School of Innovative Life Science, University of Toyama, Toyama, Japan
| | - Hisashi Mori
- Department of Molecular Neuroscience, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toyama, Toyama, Japan,Research Center for Idling Brain Science, University of Toyama, Toyama, Japan,*Correspondence: Hisashi Mori,
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20
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Goodman J, Leong KC, Packard MG. NMDA receptor blockade in the dorsolateral striatum impairs consolidation but not retrieval of habit memory. Neurobiol Learn Mem 2023; 197:107709. [PMID: 36503101 DOI: 10.1016/j.nlm.2022.107709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2022] [Revised: 10/24/2022] [Accepted: 12/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The present study investigated whether N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptors in the dorsolateral striatum (DLS) mediate consolidation and retrieval of habit memory. Adult male Long-Evans rats were trained in a response learning version of a water plus-maze task in which rats were reinforced to make a habitual and consistent body-turn response at the maze choice point in order to mount a hidden escape platform. Prior research indicates that acquisition, consolidation, and retrieval in this task requires DLS function. The present study consisted of two experiments. In Experiment 1, rats received intra-DLS post-training injections of the NMDA receptor antagonist 2-amino-5- phosphonopentanoic acid (AP5; 2 µg/side) to examine the role of NMDA receptors in consolidation of habit memory. In Experiment 2, different groups of rats received a single pre-retrieval injection of AP5 in the DLS (AP5; 2 µg/side) during the last day of maze training to examine the potential role of NMDA receptors in retrieval of habit memory. Results indicated that post-training intra-DLS AP5 injections impaired memory consolidation. However, administration of AP5 at the same dose that impaired consolidation had no effect on memory retrieval. The findings are consistent with previous research indicating a role for NMDA receptors in the DLS in memory consolidation, and suggest that NMDA-dependent synaptic activity in the DLS may not be a critical component of habit memory retrieval.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jarid Goodman
- Department of Psychology, Delaware State University, Dover, DE, United States
| | - Kah-Chung Leong
- Department of Psychology, Trinity University, San Antonio, TX, United States
| | - Mark G Packard
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States
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21
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Daglas M, Truong PH, Miles LQ, Juan SMA, Rao SS, Adlard PA. Deferiprone attenuates neuropathology and improves outcome following traumatic brain injury. Br J Pharmacol 2023; 180:214-234. [PMID: 36102035 DOI: 10.1111/bph.15950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2022] [Revised: 08/27/2022] [Accepted: 09/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Traumatic brain injury (TBI) remains a leading cause of mortality and morbidity in young adults. The role of iron in potentiating neurodegeneration following TBI has gained recent interest as iron deposition has been detected in the injured brain in the weeks to months post-TBI, in both the preclinical and clinical setting. A failure in iron homeostasis can lead to oxidative stress, inflammation and excitotoxicity; and whether this is a cause or consequence of the long-term effects of TBI remains unknown. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH We investigated the role of iron and the effect of therapeutic intervention using a brain-permeable iron chelator, deferiprone, in a controlled cortical impact mouse model of TBI. An extensive assessment of cognitive, motor and anxiety/depressive outcome measures were examined, and neuropathological and biochemical changes, over a 3-month period post-TBI. KEY RESULTS Lesion volume was significantly reduced at 3 months, which was preceded by a reduction in astrogliosis, microglia/macrophages and preservation of neurons in the injured brain at 2 weeks and/or 1 month post-TBI in mice receiving oral deferiprone. Deferiprone treatment showed significant improvements in neurological severity scores, locomotor/gait performance and cognitive function, and attenuated anxiety-like symptoms post-TBI. Deferiprone reduced iron levels, lipid peroxidation/oxidative stress and altered expression of neurotrophins in the injured brain over this period. CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS Our findings support a detrimental role of iron in the injured brain and suggest that deferiprone (or similar iron chelators) may be promising therapeutic approaches to improve survival, functional outcomes and quality of life following TBI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Daglas
- Synaptic Neurobiology Laboratory, The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Phan H Truong
- Synaptic Neurobiology Laboratory, The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Linh Q Miles
- Synaptic Neurobiology Laboratory, The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Sydney M A Juan
- Synaptic Neurobiology Laboratory, The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Shalini S Rao
- Synaptic Neurobiology Laboratory, The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Paul A Adlard
- Synaptic Neurobiology Laboratory, The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
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22
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Hussin AT, Abbaspoor S, Hoffman KL. Retrosplenial and Hippocampal Synchrony during Retrieval of Old Memories in Macaques. J Neurosci 2022; 42:7947-7956. [PMID: 36261267 PMCID: PMC9617609 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.0001-22.2022] [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: 01/01/2022] [Revised: 06/05/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Memory for events from the distant past relies on multiple brain regions, but little is known about the underlying neural dynamics that give rise to such abilities. We recorded neural activity in the hippocampus and retrosplenial cortex of two female rhesus macaques as they visually selected targets in year-old and newly acquired object-scene associations. Whereas hippocampal activity was unchanging with memory age, the retrosplenial cortex responded with greater magnitude alpha oscillations (10-15 Hz) and greater phase locking to memory-guided eye movements during retrieval of old events. A similar old-memory enhancement was observed in the anterior cingulate cortex but in a beta2/gamma band (28-35 Hz). In contrast, remote retrieval was associated with decreased gamma-band synchrony between the hippocampus and each neocortical area. The increasing retrosplenial alpha oscillation and decreasing hippocampocortical synchrony with memory age may signify a shift in frank memory allocation or, alternatively, changes in selection among distributed memory representations in the primate brain.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Memory depends on multiple brain regions, whose involvement is thought to change with time. Here, we recorded neuronal population activity from the hippocampus and retrosplenial cortex as nonhuman primates searched for objects embedded in scenes. These memoranda were either newly presented or a year old. Remembering old material drove stronger oscillations in the retrosplenial cortex and led to a greater locking of neural activity to search movements. Remembering new material revealed stronger oscillatory synchrony between the hippocampus and retrosplenial cortex. These results suggest that with age, memories may come to rely more exclusively on neocortical oscillations for retrieval and search guidance and less on long-range coupling with the hippocampus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed T Hussin
- Department of Biology, Centre for Vision Research, York University, Toronto Ontario M3J 1P3, Canada
| | | | - Kari L Hoffman
- Department of Biology, Centre for Vision Research, York University, Toronto Ontario M3J 1P3, Canada
- Departments of Psychology
- Biomedical Engineering, Vanderbilt Vision Research Center, Vanderbilt Brain Institute, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37240
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23
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Chao OY, Nikolaus S, Yang YM, Huston JP. Neuronal circuitry for recognition memory of object and place in rodent models. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2022; 141:104855. [PMID: 36089106 PMCID: PMC10542956 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2022.104855] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2022] [Revised: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
Rats and mice are used for studying neuronal circuits underlying recognition memory due to their ability to spontaneously remember the occurrence of an object, its place and an association of the object and place in a particular environment. A joint employment of lesions, pharmacological interventions, optogenetics and chemogenetics is constantly expanding our knowledge of the neural basis for recognition memory of object, place, and their association. In this review, we summarize current studies on recognition memory in rodents with a focus on the novel object preference, novel location preference and object-in-place paradigms. The evidence suggests that the medial prefrontal cortex- and hippocampus-connected circuits contribute to recognition memory for object and place. Under certain conditions, the striatum, medial septum, amygdala, locus coeruleus and cerebellum are also involved. We propose that the neuronal circuitry for recognition memory of object and place is hierarchically connected and constructed by different cortical (perirhinal, entorhinal and retrosplenial cortices), thalamic (nucleus reuniens, mediodorsal and anterior thalamic nuclei) and primeval (hypothalamus and interpeduncular nucleus) modules interacting with the medial prefrontal cortex and hippocampus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Owen Y Chao
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Minnesota Medical School, Duluth, MN 55812, USA
| | - Susanne Nikolaus
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich-Heine University, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Yi-Mei Yang
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Minnesota Medical School, Duluth, MN 55812, USA; Department of Neuroscience, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA.
| | - Joseph P Huston
- Center for Behavioral Neuroscience, Institute of Experimental Psychology, Heinrich-Heine University, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany.
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24
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Zhao Y, Wang D, Wang X, Chiu SC. Brain mechanisms underlying the influence of emotions on spatial decision-making: An EEG study. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:989988. [PMID: 36248638 PMCID: PMC9562092 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.989988] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2022] [Accepted: 08/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
It is common for people to make bad decisions because of their emotions in life. When these decisions are important, such as aeronautical decisions and driving decisions, the mistakes of decisions can cause irreversible damage. Therefore, it is important to explore how emotions influence decision-making, so as to avoid the negative influence of emotions on decision-making as much as possible. Although existing researchers have found some mechanisms of emotion's influence on decision-making, only a few studies focused on the influence of emotions on decision-making based on electroencephalography (EEG). In addition, most of them were focused on risky and uncertain decision-making. We designed a novel experimental task to explore the influence of emotion on spatial decision-making and recorded subjective data, decision-making behavioral data, and EEG data. By analyzing these data, we came to three conclusions. Firstly, we observed three similar event-related potentials (ERP) microstates in the decision-making process under different emotions by microstate analysis. Additionally, the prefrontal, parietal and occipital lobes played key roles in decision-making. Secondly, we found that the P2 component of the prefrontal lobe presented the influence of different emotions on decision-making by ERP analysis. Among them, positive emotion evoked the largest P2 amplitude compared to negative emotions and no stimuli. Thirdly, we found some graph metrics that were significantly associated with decision accuracy by effective connectivity analysis combined with graph theoretic analysis. In consequence, the finding of our study may shed more light on the brain mechanisms underlying the influence of emotions on spatial decision-making, thereby providing a basis for avoiding decision-making accidents caused by emotions and realizing better decision-making.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanyan Zhao
- State Key Laboratory for Management and Control of Complex Systems, Institute of Automation, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- School of Artificial Intelligence, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Danli Wang
- State Key Laboratory for Management and Control of Complex Systems, Institute of Automation, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- School of Artificial Intelligence, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Danli Wang
| | - Xinyuan Wang
- State Key Laboratory for Management and Control of Complex Systems, Institute of Automation, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- School of Artificial Intelligence, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Steve C. Chiu
- ECE Department, Idaho State University, Pocatello, ID, United States
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25
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Ren LY, Cicvaric A, Zhang H, Meyer MA, Guedea AL, Gao P, Petrovic Z, Sun X, Lin Y, Radulovic J. Stress-induced changes of the cholinergic circuitry promote retrieval-based generalization of aversive memories. Mol Psychiatry 2022; 27:3795-3805. [PMID: 35551246 PMCID: PMC9846583 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-022-01610-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Revised: 04/13/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Generalization, the process of applying knowledge acquired in one context to other contexts, often drives the expression of similar behaviors in related situations. At the cellular level, generalization is thought to depend on the activity of overlapping neurons that represent shared features between contexts (general representations). Using contextual fear conditioning in mice, we demonstrate that generalization can also occur in response to stress and result from reactivation of specific, rather than general context representations. We found that generalization emerges during memory retrieval, along with stress-induced abnormalities of septohippocampal oscillatory activity and acetylcholine release, which are typically found in negative affective states. In hippocampal neurons that represent aversive memories and drive generalization, cholinergic septohippocampal afferents contributed to a unique reactivation pattern of cFos, Npas4, and repressor element-1 silencing transcription factor (REST). Together, these findings suggest that generalization can be triggered by perceptually dissimilar but valence-congruent memories of specific aversive experiences. Through promoting the reactivation of such memories and their interference with ongoing behavior, abnormal cholinergic signaling could underlie maladaptive cognitive and behavioral generalization linked to negative affective states.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lynn Y Ren
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
| | - Ana Cicvaric
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
- Dominick P. Purpura Department of Neuroscience, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Hui Zhang
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
- Dominick P. Purpura Department of Neuroscience, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Mariah Aa Meyer
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
| | - Anita L Guedea
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
| | - Pan Gao
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
| | - Zorica Petrovic
- Dominick P. Purpura Department of Neuroscience, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Xiaochen Sun
- Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Yingxi Lin
- Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, State University of New York Upstate Medical University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jelena Radulovic
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA.
- Dominick P. Purpura Department of Neuroscience, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, NY, USA.
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, NY, USA.
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.
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26
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Strategy updating mediated by specific retrosplenial-parafascicular-basal ganglia networks. Curr Biol 2022; 32:3477-3492.e5. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2022.06.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2022] [Revised: 06/07/2022] [Accepted: 06/10/2022] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
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27
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Pan TT, Liu C, Li DM, Zhang TH, Zhang W, Zhao SL, Zhou QX, Nie BB, Zhu GH, Xu L, Liu H. Retrosplenial Cortex Effects Contextual Fear Formation Relying on Dysgranular Constituent in Rats. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:886858. [PMID: 35592254 PMCID: PMC9112855 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.886858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Animal contextual fear conditioning (CFC) models are the most-studied forms used to explore the neural substances of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). In addition to the well-recognized hippocampal–amygdalar system, the retrosplenial cortex (RSC) is getting more and more attention due to substantial involvement in CFC, but with a poor understanding of the specific roles of its two major constituents—dysgranular (RSCd) and granular (RSCg). The current study sought to identify their roles and underlying brain network mechanisms during the encoding processing of the rat CFC model. Rats with pharmacologically inactivated RSCd, RSCg, and corresponding controls underwent contextual fear conditioning. [18F]-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography (18F-FDG PET/CT) scanning was performed for each animal. The 5-h and 24-h retrieval were followed to test the formation of contextual memory. Graph theoretic tools were used to identify the brain metabolic network involved in encoding phase, and changes of nodal (brain region) properties linked, respectively, to disturbed RSCd and RSCg were analyzed. Impaired retrieval occurred in disturbed RSCd animals, not in RSCg ones. The RSC, hippocampus (Hip), amygdala (Amy), piriform cortex (Pir), and visual cortex (VC) are hub nodes of the brain-wide network for contextual fear memory encoding in rats. Nodal degree and efficiency of hippocampus and its connectivity with amygdala, Pir, and VC were decreased in rats with disturbed RSCd, while not in those with suppressed RSCg. The RSC plays its role in contextual fear memory encoding mainly relying on its RSCd part, whose condition would influence the activity of the hippocampal–amygdalar system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting-Ting Pan
- School of Physics and Microelectronics, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Beijing Engineering Research Center of Radiographic Techniques and Equipment, Institute of High Energy Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- CAS Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms, and KIZ-SU Joint Laboratory of Animal Model and Drug Development, and Laboratory of Learning and Memory, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, China
| | - Chao Liu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms, and KIZ-SU Joint Laboratory of Animal Model and Drug Development, and Laboratory of Learning and Memory, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, China
- Kunming College of Life Science, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, China
| | - De-Min Li
- School of Physics and Microelectronics, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Tian-Hao Zhang
- Beijing Engineering Research Center of Radiographic Techniques and Equipment, Institute of High Energy Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- School of Nuclear Science and Technology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- Beijing Engineering Research Center of Radiographic Techniques and Equipment, Institute of High Energy Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- School of Nuclear Science and Technology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Shi-Lun Zhao
- Beijing Engineering Research Center of Radiographic Techniques and Equipment, Institute of High Energy Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- School of Nuclear Science and Technology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Qi-Xin Zhou
- CAS Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms, and KIZ-SU Joint Laboratory of Animal Model and Drug Development, and Laboratory of Learning and Memory, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, China
- Kunming College of Life Science, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, China
| | - Bin-Bin Nie
- Beijing Engineering Research Center of Radiographic Techniques and Equipment, Institute of High Energy Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- School of Nuclear Science and Technology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Bin-Bin Nie,
| | - Gao-Hong Zhu
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
- Gao-Hong Zhu,
| | - Lin Xu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms, and KIZ-SU Joint Laboratory of Animal Model and Drug Development, and Laboratory of Learning and Memory, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, China
- Kunming College of Life Science, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, China
- CAS Centre for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligent Technology, Shanghai, China
- Gao-Hong Zhu,
| | - Hua Liu
- Beijing Engineering Research Center of Radiographic Techniques and Equipment, Institute of High Energy Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- School of Nuclear Science and Technology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Hua Liu,
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28
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Trask S, Fournier DI. Examining a role for the retrosplenial cortex in age-related memory impairment. Neurobiol Learn Mem 2022; 189:107601. [PMID: 35202816 DOI: 10.1016/j.nlm.2022.107601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Revised: 02/06/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Aging is often characterized by changes in the ability to form and accurately recall episodic memories, and this is especially evident in neuropsychiatric conditions including Alzheimer's disease and dementia. Memory impairments and cognitive decline associated with aging mirror the impairments observed following damage to the retrosplenial cortex, suggesting that this region might be important for continued cognitive function throughout the lifespan. Here, we review lines of evidence demonstrating that degeneration of the retrosplenial cortex is critically involved in age-related memory impairment and suggest that preservation of function in this region as part of a larger circuit that supports memory maintenance will decrease the deleterious effects of aging on memory processing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sydney Trask
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Purdue University, United States.
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29
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Smith DM, Yang YY, Subramanian DL, Miller AMP, Bulkin DA, Law LM. The limbic memory circuit and the neural basis of contextual memory. Neurobiol Learn Mem 2022; 187:107557. [PMID: 34808337 PMCID: PMC8755583 DOI: 10.1016/j.nlm.2021.107557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2021] [Revised: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
The hippocampus, retrosplenial cortex and anterior thalamus are key components of a neural circuit known to be involved in a variety of memory functions, including spatial, contextual and episodic memory. In this review, we focus on the role of this circuit in contextual memory processes. The background environment, or context, is a powerful cue for memory retrieval, and neural representations of the context provide a mechanism for efficiently retrieving relevant memories while avoiding interference from memories that belong to other contexts. Data from experimental lesions and neural manipulation techniques indicate that each of these regions is critical for contextual memory. Neurophysiological evidence from the hippocampus and retrosplenial cortex suggest that contextual information is represented within this circuit by population-level neural firing patterns that reliably differentiate each context a subject encounters. These findings indicate that encoding contextual information to support context-dependent memory retrieval is a key function of this circuit.
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Affiliation(s)
- David M Smith
- Department of Psychology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, United States.
| | - Yan Yu Yang
- Department of Psychology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, United States
| | | | - Adam M P Miller
- Department of Psychology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, United States
| | - David A Bulkin
- Department of Psychology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, United States
| | - L Matthew Law
- Department of Psychology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, United States
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30
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Stress-induced generalization of negative memories is mediated by an extended hippocampal circuit. Neuropsychopharmacology 2022; 47:516-523. [PMID: 34493828 PMCID: PMC8674250 DOI: 10.1038/s41386-021-01174-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2021] [Revised: 08/20/2021] [Accepted: 08/29/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Memories of negative experiences exert important control of behavior in the face of actual or anticipated threat. Sometimes, however, this control extends to non-threatening situations, a phenomenon known as overgeneralization of negative memories. Overgeneralization is a reliable cognitive phenotype of major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder. We therefore sought to develop an animal model to study stress-induced generalization of negative memories (SIG) and determine its dependence on the episodic-like memory circuit. We found that male and female mice, which were trained to differentiate a threatening from neutral context, exhibited robust SIG in response to subsequent social stress. Using chemogenetic circuit manipulations during memory retrieval, we demonstrated that both excitatory afferents to the dorsal hippocampus (DH) from the ventral tegmental area (VTA), and excitatory efferents from the DH to the retrosplenial cortex (RSC) contribute to SIG. Based on the known roles of these projections, we suggest that (1) by targeting subcortical VTA circuits that provide valence signals to the DH, stress prioritizes the retrieval of negative over neutral memories, and (2) by forwarding such information to the RSC, stress engages cortical mechanisms that support the retrieval of general relative to specific memory features. Altogether, these results suggest that various components of the extended hippocampal circuit can serve as treatment targets for memory overgeneralization.
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31
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Jovasevic V, Zhang H, Petrovic Z, Cicvaric A, Radulovic J. Protocol for assessing the role of hippocampal perineuronal nets in aversive memories. STAR Protoc 2021; 2:100931. [PMID: 34778848 PMCID: PMC8577157 DOI: 10.1016/j.xpro.2021.100931] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Perineuronal nets (PNNs) are emerging as critical regulators of memory-related neuronal processes. However, their exact contribution depends on type of memory, consolidation stage, or brain region, and remains to be fully investigated. We describe here a protocol to evaluate the importance of PNNs in the dorsal hippocampus in different stages of aversive memories using a mouse model. The protocol provides detailed instructions for surgical implantation of hippocampal cannulas, drug infusion, contextual fear conditioning procedures, and immunohistochemistry for PNN visualization. For complete details on the use and execution of this protocol, please refer to Jovasevic et al. (2021).
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Affiliation(s)
- Vladimir Jovasevic
- Department of Pharmacology, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Hui Zhang
- Department of Neuroscience and Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA
| | - Zorica Petrovic
- Department of Neuroscience and Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA
| | - Ana Cicvaric
- Department of Neuroscience and Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA
| | - Jelena Radulovic
- Department of Neuroscience and Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
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32
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Motanis H, Khorasani LN, Giza CC, Harris NG. Peering into the Brain through the Retrosplenial Cortex to Assess Cognitive Function of the Injured Brain. Neurotrauma Rep 2021; 2:564-580. [PMID: 34901949 PMCID: PMC8655812 DOI: 10.1089/neur.2021.0044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The retrosplenial cortex (RSC) is a posterior cortical area that has been drawing increasing interest in recent years, with a growing number of studies studying its contribution to cognitive and sensory functions. From an anatomical perspective, it has been established that the RSC is extensively and often reciprocally connected with the hippocampus, neocortex, and many midbrain regions. Functionally, the RSC is an important hub of the default-mode network. This endowment, with vast anatomical and functional connections, positions the RSC to play an important role in episodic memory, spatial and contextual learning, sensory-cognitive activities, and multi-modal sensory information processing and integration. Additionally, RSC dysfunction has been reported in cases of cognitive decline, particularly in Alzheimer's disease and stroke. We review the literature to examine whether the RSC can act as a cortical marker of persistent cognitive dysfunction after traumatic brain injury (TBI). Because the RSC is easily accessible at the brain's surface using in vivo techniques, we argue that studying RSC network activity post-TBI can shed light into the mechanisms of less-accessible brain regions, such as the hippocampus. There is a fundamental gap in the TBI field about the microscale alterations occurring post-trauma, and by studying the RSC's neuronal activity at the cellular level we will be able to design better therapeutic tools. Understanding how neuronal activity and interactions produce normal and abnormal activity in the injured brain is crucial to understanding cognitive dysfunction. By using this approach, we expect to gain valuable insights to better understand brain disorders like TBI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helen Motanis
- UCLA Brain Injury Research Center, Department of Neurosurgery, Geffen Medical School, UCLA Mattel Children's Hospital, University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Laila N. Khorasani
- UCLA Brain Injury Research Center, Department of Neurosurgery, Geffen Medical School, UCLA Mattel Children's Hospital, University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Christopher C. Giza
- UCLA Brain Injury Research Center, Department of Neurosurgery, Geffen Medical School, UCLA Mattel Children's Hospital, University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, UCLA Mattel Children's Hospital, University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Neil G. Harris
- UCLA Brain Injury Research Center, Department of Neurosurgery, Geffen Medical School, UCLA Mattel Children's Hospital, University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Intellectual Development and Disabilities Research Center, UCLA Mattel Children's Hospital, University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
- *Address correspondence to: Neil G. Harris, PhD, Department of Neurosurgery, University of California at Los Angeles, Wasserman Building, 300 Stein Plaza, Room 551, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA;
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33
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Trask S, Ferrara NC, Jasnow AM, Kwapis JL. Contributions of the rodent cingulate-retrosplenial cortical axis to associative learning and memory: A proposed circuit for persistent memory maintenance. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2021; 130:178-184. [PMID: 34450181 PMCID: PMC8511298 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2021.08.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2020] [Revised: 08/18/2021] [Accepted: 08/22/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
While the anterior cingulate (ACC) and retrosplenial (RSC) cortices have been extensively studied for their role in spatial navigation, less is known about how they contribute to associative learning and later memory recall. The limited work that has been conducted on this topic suggests that each of these cortical regions makes distinct, but similar contributions to associative learning and memory. Here, we review evidence from the rodent literature demonstrating that while ACC activity seems to be necessary at remote time points associated with imprecise or generalized memories, the role of the RSC seems to be uniform over time. Together, the lines of evidence reviewed here suggest that the ACC and RSC likely function together to support memory formation and maintenance following associative learning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sydney Trask
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, 47907, United States
| | - Nicole C Ferrara
- Department of Pharmacology, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL, 60064, United States
| | - Aaron M Jasnow
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology & Neuroscience, University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Columbia, SC, 29209, United States
| | - Janine L Kwapis
- Department of Biology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, United States.
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34
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Urban MW, Lo C, Bodinayake KK, Brunswick CA, Murakami S, Heimann AC, Kwapis JL. The circadian clock gene Per1 modulates context fear memory formation within the retrosplenial cortex in a sex-specific manner. Neurobiol Learn Mem 2021; 185:107535. [PMID: 34624524 PMCID: PMC8595856 DOI: 10.1016/j.nlm.2021.107535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2021] [Revised: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 09/30/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Context memory formation is a complex process that requires transcription in many subregions of the brain including the dorsal hippocampus and retrosplenial cortex. One critical gene necessary for memory formation is the circadian gene Period1 (Per1), which has been shown to function in the dorsal hippocampus to modulate spatial memory in addition to its well-documented role in regulating the diurnal clock within the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN). We recently found that alterations in Per1 expression in the dorsal hippocampus can modulate spatial memory formation, with reduced hippocampal Per1 impairing memory and overexpression of Per1 ameliorating age-related impairments in spatial memory. Whether Per1 similarly functions within other memory-relevant brain regions is currently unknown. Here, to test whether Per1 is a general mechanism that modulates memory across the brain, we tested the role of Per1 in the retrosplenial cortex (RSC), a brain region necessary for context memory formation. First, we demonstrate that context fear conditioning drives a transient increase in Per1 mRNA expression within the anterior RSC that peaks 60 m after training. Next, using HSV-CRISPRi-mediated knockdown of Per1, we show that reducing Per1 within the anterior RSC before context fear acquisition impairs memory in both male and female mice. In contrast, overexpressing Per1 with either HSV-CRISPRa or HSV-Per1 before context fear acquisition drives a sex-specific memory impairment; males show impaired context fear memory whereas females are not affected by Per1 overexpression. Finally, as Per1 levels are known to rhythmically oscillate across the day/night cycle, we tested the possibility that Per1 overexpression might have different effects on memory depending on the time of day. In contrast to the impairment in memory we observed during the daytime, Per1 overexpression has no effect on context fear memory during the night in either male or female mice. Together, our results indicate that Per1 modulates memory in the anterior retrosplenial cortex in addition to its documented role in regulating memory within the dorsal hippocampus, although this role may differ between males and females.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark W Urban
- Department of Biology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
| | - Chenyu Lo
- Department of Biology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
| | - Kasuni K Bodinayake
- Department of Biology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
| | - Chad A Brunswick
- Department of Biology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
| | - Shoko Murakami
- Department of Biology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
| | - Ashley C Heimann
- Department of Biology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
| | - Janine L Kwapis
- Department of Biology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA.
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35
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Sun W, Choi I, Stoyanov S, Senkov O, Ponimaskin E, Winter Y, Pakan JMP, Dityatev A. Context value updating and multidimensional neuronal encoding in the retrosplenial cortex. Nat Commun 2021; 12:6045. [PMID: 34663792 PMCID: PMC8523535 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-26301-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2019] [Accepted: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The retrosplenial cortex (RSC) has diverse functional inputs and is engaged by various sensory, spatial, and associative learning tasks. We examine how multiple functional aspects are integrated on the single-cell level in the RSC and how the encoding of task-related parameters changes across learning. Using a visuospatial context discrimination paradigm and two-photon calcium imaging in behaving mice, a large proportion of dysgranular RSC neurons was found to encode multiple task-related dimensions while forming context-value associations across learning. During reversal learning requiring increased cognitive flexibility, we revealed an increased proportion of multidimensional encoding neurons that showed higher decoding accuracy for behaviorally relevant context-value associations. Chemogenetic inactivation of RSC led to decreased behavioral context discrimination during learning phases in which context-value associations were formed, while recall of previously formed associations remained intact. RSC inactivation resulted in a persistent positive behavioral bias in valuing contexts, indicating a role for the RSC in context-value updating.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weilun Sun
- grid.424247.30000 0004 0438 0426Molecular Neuroplasticity, German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Magdeburg, Germany ,grid.418723.b0000 0001 2109 6265Center for Behavioral Brain Sciences (CBBS), Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Ilseob Choi
- grid.424247.30000 0004 0438 0426Molecular Neuroplasticity, German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Magdeburg, Germany ,grid.418723.b0000 0001 2109 6265Center for Behavioral Brain Sciences (CBBS), Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Stoyan Stoyanov
- grid.424247.30000 0004 0438 0426Molecular Neuroplasticity, German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Oleg Senkov
- grid.424247.30000 0004 0438 0426Molecular Neuroplasticity, German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Evgeni Ponimaskin
- grid.10423.340000 0000 9529 9877Department of Cellular Neurophysiology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - York Winter
- grid.7468.d0000 0001 2248 7639Institute for Biology, Humboldt University, Berlin, Germany
| | - Janelle M. P. Pakan
- grid.418723.b0000 0001 2109 6265Center for Behavioral Brain Sciences (CBBS), Magdeburg, Germany ,grid.5807.a0000 0001 1018 4307Institute of Cognitive Neurology and Dementia Research, Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany ,grid.424247.30000 0004 0438 0426German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Alexander Dityatev
- grid.424247.30000 0004 0438 0426Molecular Neuroplasticity, German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Magdeburg, Germany ,grid.418723.b0000 0001 2109 6265Center for Behavioral Brain Sciences (CBBS), Magdeburg, Germany ,grid.5807.a0000 0001 1018 4307Medical Faculty, Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
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Retrosplenial cortex inactivation during retrieval, but not encoding, impairs remotely acquired auditory fear conditioning in male rats. Neurobiol Learn Mem 2021; 185:107517. [PMID: 34500052 DOI: 10.1016/j.nlm.2021.107517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2021] [Revised: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 09/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Prior studies with permanent lesion methods have demonstrated a role for the retrosplenial cortex (RSC) in the retrieval of remotely, but not recently, acquired delay fear conditioning. To extend the generalizability of these prior findings, the present experiments used chemogenetics to temporarily inactivate the RSC during either retrieval or encoding of delay auditory fear conditioning. Inactivation of the RSC at the time of test impaired retrieval of a remotely conditioned auditory cue, but not a recently conditioned one. In addition, inactivation of the RSC during encoding had no impact on freezing during later retrieval testing for both a remotely and recently conditioned auditory cue. These findings indicate that the RSC contributes to the retrieval, but not encoding, of remotely acquired auditory fear conditioning, and suggest it has less of a role in both retrieval and encoding of recently acquired auditory fear conditioning.
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Franco LM, Goard MJ. A distributed circuit for associating environmental context with motor choice in retrosplenial cortex. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2021; 7:eabf9815. [PMID: 34433557 PMCID: PMC8386923 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abf9815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2020] [Accepted: 07/02/2021] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
During navigation, animals often use recognition of familiar environmental contexts to guide motor action selection. The retrosplenial cortex (RSC) receives inputs from both visual cortex and subcortical regions required for spatial memory and projects to motor planning regions. However, it is not known whether RSC is important for associating familiar environmental contexts with specific motor actions. We test this possibility by developing a task in which motor trajectories are chosen based on the context. We find that mice exhibit differential predecision activity in RSC and that optogenetic suppression of RSC activity impairs task performance. Individual RSC neurons encode a range of task variables, often multiplexed with distinct temporal profiles. However, the responses are spatiotemporally organized, with task variables represented along a posterior-to-anterior gradient along RSC during the behavioral performance, consistent with histological characterization. These results reveal an anatomically organized retrosplenial cortical circuit for associating environmental contexts with appropriate motor outputs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luis M Franco
- Neuroscience Research Institute, University of California, Santa Barbara, CA 93106, USA
| | - Michael J Goard
- Neuroscience Research Institute, University of California, Santa Barbara, CA 93106, USA.
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, University of California, Santa Barbara, CA 93106, USA
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, University of California, Santa Barbara, CA 93106, USA
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Gao M, Noguchi A, Ikegaya Y. The subiculum sensitizes retrosplenial cortex layer 2/3 pyramidal neurons. J Physiol 2021; 599:3151-3167. [PMID: 33878801 DOI: 10.1113/jp281152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2020] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
KEY POINTS Neurons in the retrosplenial cortex (RSC), a cerebral region that connects synaptically with various brain regions, are known to increase neuronal activity in accordance with hippocampal sharp wave-ripples. Pyramidal cells in granular RSC (gRSC) layer 2/3, but not layer 5, exhibit slowly ramping depolarization and considerably delayed spikes in response to a step-pulse current injection. The latencies of delayed spikes in RSC layer 2/3 pyramidal neurons were shortened by a preceding current injection. This effect was mimicked by activation of axonal afferents from the subiculum, but not of neocortical afferents. The subiculum is likely to facilitate information processing and flow in the RSC. ABSTRACT The retrosplenial cortex (RSC), a cerebral region involved in diverse cognitive functions, is an anatomical hub that forms monosynaptic connections with various brain areas. Here, we report a unique form of short-term intrinsic plasticity in mouse granular RSC layer 2/3 pyramidal cells. These cells exhibited delayed spikes in response to somatic current injection, but the spike latencies were shortened by a preceding brief depolarization (priming). This priming-induced sensitization is distinct from desensitization, which is commonly observed in other cortical neurons. The facilitatory priming effect lasted for more than 3 s, providing a time window for increased sensitivity to RSC inputs. Based on in vitro and in vivo patch-clamp recordings following optogenetic stimulation of axonal fibres, we found that preactivation of subicular afferents replicated the facilitatory priming effect. The results suggest that subicular inputs to RSC layer 2/3 neurons may modulate subsequent information integration in the RSC layer 2/3 circuits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengxuan Gao
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, 113-0033, Japan
| | - Asako Noguchi
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, 113-0033, Japan
| | - Yuji Ikegaya
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, 113-0033, Japan.,Institute of AI and Beyond, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, 113-0033, Japan.,Center for Information and Neural Networks, National Institute of Information and Communications Technology, Suita City, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
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Yoshida M, Chinzorig C, Matsumoto J, Nishimaru H, Ono T, Yamazaki M, Nishijo H. Configural Cues Associated with Reward Elicit Theta Oscillations of Rat Retrosplenial Cortical Neurons Phase-Locked to LFP Theta Cycles. Cereb Cortex 2021; 31:2729-2741. [PMID: 33415336 DOI: 10.1093/cercor/bhaa395] [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] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Previous behavioral studies implicated the retrosplenial cortex (RSC) in stimulus-stimulus associations, and also in the retrieval of remote associative memory based on EEG theta oscillations. However, neural mechanisms involved in the retrieval of stored information of such associations and memory in the RSC remain unclear. To investigate the neural mechanisms underlying these processes, RSC neurons and local field potentials (LFPs) were simultaneously recorded from well-trained rats performing a cue-reward association task. In the task, simultaneous presentation of two multimodal conditioned stimuli (configural CSs) predicted a reward outcome opposite to that associated with the individual presentation of each elemental CS. Here, we show neurophysiological evidence that the RSC is involved in stimulus-stimulus association where configural CSs are discriminated from each elementary CS that is a constituent of the configural CSs, and that memory retrieval of rewarding CSs is associated with theta oscillation of RSC neurons during CS presentation, which is phase-locked to LFP theta cycles. The results suggest that cue (elementary and configural CSs)-reinforcement associations are stored in the RSC neural circuits, and are retrieved in synchronization with LFP theta rhythm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masashi Yoshida
- Department of Anesthesiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toyama, Toyama 930-0194, Japan
| | - Choijiljav Chinzorig
- Department of System Emotional Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toyama, Toyama 930-0194, Japan.,Department of Physiology, School of Bio-medicine, Mongolian National University of Medical Sciences, Ulaanbaatar 14210, Mongolia
| | - Jumpei Matsumoto
- Department of System Emotional Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toyama, Toyama 930-0194, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Nishimaru
- Department of System Emotional Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toyama, Toyama 930-0194, Japan.,Graduate School of Innovative Life Science, University of Toyama, Toyama 930-0194, Japan.,Research Center for Idling Brain Science (RCIBS), University of Toyama, Toyama 930-0194, Japan
| | - Taketoshi Ono
- Department of System Emotional Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toyama, Toyama 930-0194, Japan
| | - Mitsuaki Yamazaki
- Department of Anesthesiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toyama, Toyama 930-0194, Japan
| | - Hisao Nishijo
- Department of System Emotional Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toyama, Toyama 930-0194, Japan.,Graduate School of Innovative Life Science, University of Toyama, Toyama 930-0194, Japan.,Research Center for Idling Brain Science (RCIBS), University of Toyama, Toyama 930-0194, Japan
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Miller AMP, Serrichio AC, Smith DM. Dual-Factor Representation of the Environmental Context in the Retrosplenial Cortex. Cereb Cortex 2020; 31:2720-2728. [PMID: 33386396 DOI: 10.1093/cercor/bhaa386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The retrosplenial cortex (RSC) is thought to be involved in a variety of spatial and contextual memory processes. However, we do not know how contextual information might be encoded in the RSC or whether the RSC representations may be distinct from context representations seen in other brain regions such as the hippocampus. We recorded RSC neuronal responses while rats explored different environments and discovered 2 kinds of context representations: one involving a novel rate code in which neurons reliably fire at a higher rate in the preferred context regardless of spatial location, and a second involving context-dependent spatial firing patterns similar to those seen in the hippocampus. This suggests that the RSC employs a unique dual-factor representational mechanism to support contextual memory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam M P Miller
- Department of Psychology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - Anna C Serrichio
- Department of Psychology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - David M Smith
- Department of Psychology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
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41
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Bostanciklioğlu M. Unexpected awakenings in severe dementia from case reports to laboratory. Alzheimers Dement 2020; 17:125-136. [PMID: 33064369 DOI: 10.1002/alz.12162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2020] [Revised: 06/17/2020] [Accepted: 07/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Case report notions of unexpected memory retrieval in patients with severe dementia near to death are starting to alter the central "irreversible" paradigm of dementia and locate dementia as a problem of memory retrieval, not consolidation. We suggest that the most likely central tenet of this paradoxical memory retrieval is the fluctuation of neuromodulators projecting from the brain stem to the medial prefrontal cortex and the hippocampus. The neuromodulation-centric explanation of this phenomenon aims to open the "irreversible" paradigm of dementia up for discussion and suggest a plausible treatment strategy by questioning how the devastating process of death fluctuates memory performance in severe dementia. BACKGROUND Supporting demented patients, who are mostly unresponsive, without making demands or asking a question and regarding them as valuable human beings unexpectedly improve their memory performance around the time of death. NEW LUCIDITY HYPOTHESIS Around the time of death, neurological signs (hyper-arousal and -attention) of demented people point out that neurotransmitter discharges are dramatically changed. Relatively resistant neuromodulator circuits to neurodegeneration can maintain optimal levels of arousal and attention for memory processing. In this way, unexpected episodes of lucidity can be triggered. Also, corticotropin-releasing peptides might increase mental clarity by increasing the excitability of the neuromodulator circuits. The science of memory retrieval is more complicated and nuanced than retrieval observations in case reports, but the rapid development of new techniques holds promise for future understanding of lucidity in severe dementia. MAJOR CHALLENGE FOR THE MODEL There is no an animal or human model to test this hypothesis; however, the similarities between neurological signs (instantaneous cognitive fluctuations) of delirium and paradoxical lucidity could provide a unique window to understand neural events of terminal lucidity on a modified animal model of delirium. Likewise, similarities between unexpected consciousness signs of terminal lucidity and lucid dreaming suggest that lucid dreaming episodes might be considered a human model for terminal lucidity research.
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de Lima MAX, Baldo MVC, Canteras NS. Revealing a Cortical Circuit Responsive to Predatory Threats and Mediating Contextual Fear Memory. Cereb Cortex 2020; 29:3074-3090. [PMID: 30085040 DOI: 10.1093/cercor/bhy173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2018] [Revised: 06/27/2018] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The ventral part of the anteromedial thalamic nucleus (AMv) receives substantial inputs from hypothalamic sites that are highly responsive to a live predator or its odor trace and represents an important thalamic hub for conveying predatory threat information to the cerebral cortex. In the present study, we begin by examining the cortico-amygdalar-hippocampal projections of the main AMv cortical targets, namely, the caudal prelimbic, rostral anterior cingulate, and medial visual areas, as well as the rostral part of the ventral retrosplenial area, one of the main targets of the anterior cingulate area. We observed that these areas form a clear cortical network. Next, we revealed that in animals exposed to a live cat, all of the elements of this circuit presented a differential increase in Fos, supporting the idea of a predator threat-responsive cortical network. Finally, we showed that bilateral cytotoxic lesions in each element of this cortical network did not change innate fear responses but drastically reduced contextual conditioning to the predator-associated environment. Overall, the present findings suggest that predator threat has an extensive representation in the cerebral cortex and revealed a cortical network that is responsive to predatory threats and exerts a critical role in processing fear memory.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marcus Vinicius C Baldo
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo; São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Newton Sabino Canteras
- Department of Anatomy, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo; São Paulo, SP, Brazil
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Safari V, Nategh M, Dargahi L, Zibaii ME, Khodagholi F, Rafiei S, Khatami L, Motamedi F. Individual Subnuclei of the Rat Anterior Thalamic Nuclei Differently affect Spatial Memory and Passive Avoidance Tasks. Neuroscience 2020; 444:19-32. [PMID: 32745505 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2020.07.046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2020] [Revised: 07/10/2020] [Accepted: 07/25/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The role of the anterior thalamic nuclei (ATN) has been proven in different learning and memory tasks. The ATN consist of three main subnuclei, the anterodorsal (AD), anteroventral (AV) and anteromedial (AM), which have different biological characteristics such as distinct circuitry, cell population and neurotransmitter content. The role of ATN subnuclei in learning and memory has been shown in several studies. However, their probable role in different phases of memory including acquisition, consolidation and retrieval are not still well-known. For this purpose, the effect of reversible inactivation of each ATN subnucleus on different memory phases in two behavioral tasks including passive avoidance (PA) and Morris water maze (MWM) was studied. Wister male rats were bilaterally implanted with cannulas above the AD, AV or AM subnucleus in separate experimental groups in order to inject lidocaine (4%) for their temporal inactivation or, equal volume of saline. Animals were trained in the behavioral tasks and different phases of memory were investigated. Our findings indicated that the AV inactivation strongly disrupts all memory phases in the MWM, and consolidation and retrieval phases in the PA tasks. The AM inactivation had no effect on acquisition of both tasks while it impaired the PA consolidation and MWM retrieval. However, the AD inactivation could not disrupt memory phases in the PA task but impaired the MWM retrieval. In conclusion, it seems that the ATN distinct subnuclei differently affect different phases of memory in these two tasks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vajihe Safari
- School of Cognitive Science, Institute for Research in Fundamental Sciences (IPM), P.O. Box 1954851167, Tehran, Iran; Neuroscience Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, P.O. Box 19615-1178, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohsen Nategh
- Neuroscience Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, P.O. Box 19615-1178, Tehran, Iran; The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Leila Dargahi
- Neuro Biology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Fariba Khodagholi
- Neuroscience Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, P.O. Box 19615-1178, Tehran, Iran; Neuro Biology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shahrbanoo Rafiei
- Neuroscience Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, P.O. Box 19615-1178, Tehran, Iran
| | - Leila Khatami
- School of Cognitive Science, Institute for Research in Fundamental Sciences (IPM), P.O. Box 1954851167, Tehran, Iran; Neuroscience Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, P.O. Box 19615-1178, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fereshteh Motamedi
- Neuroscience Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, P.O. Box 19615-1178, Tehran, Iran.
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Opalka AN, Wang DV. Hippocampal efferents to retrosplenial cortex and lateral septum are required for memory acquisition. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 27:310-318. [PMID: 32669386 PMCID: PMC7365017 DOI: 10.1101/lm.051797.120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2020] [Accepted: 06/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Learning and memory involves a large neural network of many brain regions, including the notable hippocampus along with the retrosplenial cortex (RSC) and lateral septum (LS). Previous studies have established that the dorsal hippocampus (dHPC) plays a critical role during the acquisition and retrieval/expression of episodic memories. However, the role of downstream circuitry from the dHPC, including the dHPC-to-RSC and dHPC-to-LS pathways, has come under scrutiny only recently. Here, we used an optogenetic approach with contextual fear conditioning in mice to determine whether the above two pathways are involved in acquisition and expression of contextual fear memory. We found that a selective inhibition of the dHPC neuronal terminals in either the RSC or LS during acquisition impaired subsequent memory performance, suggesting that both the dHPC-to-RSC and dHPC-to-LS pathways play a critical role in memory acquisition. We also selectively inhibited the two dHPC efferent pathways during memory retrieval and found a differential effect on memory performance. These results indicate the intricacies of memory processing and that hippocampal efferents to cortical and subcortical regions may be differentially involved in aspects of physiological and cognitive memory processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley N Opalka
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19129, USA
| | - Dong V Wang
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19129, USA
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Fournier DI, Monasch RR, Bucci DJ, Todd TP. Retrosplenial cortex damage impairs unimodal sensory preconditioning. Behav Neurosci 2020; 134:198-207. [PMID: 32150422 PMCID: PMC7244381 DOI: 10.1037/bne0000365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The retrosplenial cortex (RSC) is positioned at the interface between cortical sensory regions and the structures that compose the medial temporal lobe memory system. It has recently been suggested that 1 functional role of the RSC involves the formation of associations between cues in the environment (stimulus-stimulus [S-S] learning; Bucci & Robinson, 2014). This suggestion is based, in part, on the finding that lesions or temporary inactivation of the RSC impair sensory preconditioning. However, all prior studies examining the role of the RSC in sensory preconditioning have used cues from multiple modalities (both visual and auditory stimuli). The purpose of the present experiment was to determine whether the RSC contributes to unimodal sensory preconditioning. In the present study we found that both electrolytic and neurotoxic lesions of the RSC impaired sensory preconditioning with auditory cues. Together with previous experiments, these findings indicate that the RSC contributes to both multisensory and unimodal sensory integration, which suggests a general role for the RSC in linking sensory cues in the environment. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2020 APA, all rights reserved).
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Bostancıklıoğlu M. An update on memory formation and retrieval: An engram-centric approach. Alzheimers Dement 2020; 16:926-937. [PMID: 32333509 DOI: 10.1002/alz.12071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2019] [Revised: 09/26/2019] [Accepted: 01/03/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We explore here that memory loss observed in the early stage of Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a disorder of memory retrieval, instead of a storage impairment. This engram-centric explanation aims to enlarge the conceptual frame of memory as an emergent behavior of the brain and to propose a new treatment strategy for memory retrieval in dementia-AD. BACKGROUND The conventional memory hypothesis suggests that memory is stored as multiple traces in hippocampal neurons but recent evidence indicates that there are specialized memory engrams responsible for the storage and the retrieval of different memory types. UPDATED MEMORY HYPOTHESIS There are specialized memory engram neurons for each memory type and when information will be stored as a memory arrives in the hippocampus through afferent neurons finds its neuron according to the excitability states of engram neurons. The excitability level in engram neurons seems like a code canalizing the interactions between engrams and information. Therefore, to enhance the excitability of memory engram neurons improves memory loss observed in AD. In addition, we suggest that the hippocampus creates an index for information stored in memory engram cells in specialized regions for different types of memory, instead of storing all information; and different anatomic locations of engram cells and their roles in memory retrieval point out that memory could be an emergent behavior of the brain, and the interaction between serotonin fluctuation and engram neurons could be neural underpinnings of terminal lucidity. MAJOR CHALLENGES FOR THE MODEL The major challenge for this engram-centric memory retrieval model is the translation from bench to patient, specifically the delivery of optogenetic tools in patients. Engram neurons can be specifically activated by optogenetic tools, but optogenetics is an invasive technique which requires optic fiber implantation into the brain. In addition, light can overheat the tissue and thus induce damage in tissue. Furthermore, light is a foreign object and its direct implantation into the brain may cause neuroinflammation, the main trigger of neurodegenerative diseases. Therefore, to test the engram hypothesis in human, new tools to allow specific engram activation should be discovered.
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Retrograde and anterograde contextual fear amnesia induced by selective elimination of layer IV-Va neurons in the granular retrosplenial cortex (A29). Neurobiol Learn Mem 2020; 171:107229. [PMID: 32289450 DOI: 10.1016/j.nlm.2020.107229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2019] [Revised: 04/02/2020] [Accepted: 04/10/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Differences in cytoarchitectural organization and connectivity distinguishes granular (or area 29, A29) and dysgranular (or area 30, A30) subdivisions of the retrosplenial cortex (RSC). Although increasing evidence supports the participation of RSC in contextual fear learning and memory, the contribution of each RSC subdivision remains unknown. Here we used orchiectomized rats and intraperitoneal (i.p.) injections of saline (control) or 5 mg/kg MK801, to trigger selective degeneration of pyramidal neurons in layers IV-Va of A29 (A29MK801 neurons). These treatments were applied 3 days before or two days after contextual fear conditioning, and contextual fear memory was evaluated by scoring freezing in the conditioned context five days after training. Afterwards, brains were fixed and c-Fos and Egr-1 expression were assessed as surrogates of neuronal activity elicited by the recall in A29, A30 and in limbic areas. We found that eliminating A29MK801 neurons after training reduces conditioned freezing to 43.1 ± 9.9% respect to control rats. This was associated with a significant reduction of c-Fos and Egr-1 expression in A30, but not in other limbic areas. On the other hand, eliminating A29MK801 neurons before training caused a mild but significant reduction of conditioned freezing to 79.7 ± 6.8%, which was associated to enhanced expression of c-Fos in A29, A30 and CA1 field of hippocampus, while Egr-1 expression in caudomedial (CEnt) entorhinal cortex was not depressed as in control animals. These observations show that severeness of amnesia differs according to whether A29MK801 neurons were eliminated before or after conditioning, likely because loss of A29MK801 neurons after conditioning disrupt memory engram while their elimination before training allow recruitment of other neurons in A29 for partial compensation of contextual fear learning and memory. These observations add further support for the critical role of A29MK801 neurons in contextual fear learning and memory by connecting limbic structures with A30.
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48
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Yousuf H, Nye AN, Moyer JR. Heterogeneity of neuronal firing type and morphology in retrosplenial cortex of male F344 rats. J Neurophysiol 2020; 123:1849-1863. [PMID: 32267193 DOI: 10.1152/jn.00577.2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The rodent granular retrosplenial cortex (gRSC) has reciprocal connections to the hippocampus to support fear memories. Although activity-dependent plasticity occurs within the RSC during memory formation, the intrinsic and morphological properties of RSC neurons are poorly understood. The present study used whole-cell recordings to examine intrinsic neuronal firing and morphology of neurons in layer 2/3 (L2/3) and layer 5 (L5) of the gRSC in adult male rats. Five different classifications were observed: regular-spiking (RS), regular-spiking afterdepolarization (RSADP), late-spiking (LS), burst-spiking (BS), and fast-spiking (FS) neurons. RSADP neurons were the most commonly observed neuronal class, identified by their robust spike frequency adaptation and pronounced afterdepolarization (ADP) following an action potential (AP). They also had the most extensive dendritic branching compared with other cell types. LS neurons were predominantly found in L2/3 and exhibited a long delay before onset of their initial AP. They also had reduced dendritic branching compared with other cell types. BS neurons were limited to L5 and generated an initial burst of two or more APs. FS neurons demonstrated sustained firing and little frequency adaptation and were the only nonpyramidal firing type. Relative to adults, RS neurons from juvenile rats (PND 14-30) lacked an ADP and were less excitable. Bath application of group 1 mGluR blockers attenuated the ADP in adult neurons. In other fear-related brain structures, the ADP has been shown to enhance excitability and synaptic plasticity. Thus, understanding cellular mechanisms of the gRSC will provide insight regarding its precise role in memory-related processes across the lifespan.NEW & NOTEWORTHY This is the first study to demonstrate that granular retrosplenial cortical (gRSC) neurons exhibit five distinctive firing types: regular spiking (RS), regular spiking with an afterdepolarization (RSADP), late spiking (LS), burst spiking (BS), and fast spiking (FS). RSADP neurons were the most frequently observed cell type in adult gRSC neurons. Interestingly, RS neurons without an ADP were most common in gRSC neurons of juvenile rats (PND 14-30). Thus, the ADP property, which was previously shown to enhance neuronal excitability, emerges during development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanna Yousuf
- Department of Psychology, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
| | - Andrew N Nye
- Department of Psychology, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
| | - James R Moyer
- Department of Psychology, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, Wisconsin.,Department of Biological Sciences University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
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49
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Excitatory VTA to DH projections provide a valence signal to memory circuits. Nat Commun 2020; 11:1466. [PMID: 32193428 PMCID: PMC7081331 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-020-15035-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2019] [Accepted: 02/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The positive or negative value (valence) of past experiences is normally integrated into neuronal circuits that encode episodic memories and plays an important role in guiding behavior. Here, we show, using mouse behavioral models, that glutamatergic afferents from the ventral tegmental area to the dorsal hippocampus (VTA→DH) signal negative valence to memory circuits, leading to the formation of fear-inducing context memories and to context-specific reinstatement of fear. To a lesser extent, these projections also contributed to opioid-induced place preference, suggesting a role in signaling positive valence as well, and thus a lack of dedicated polarity. Manipulations of VTA terminal activity were more effective in females and paralleled by sex differences in glutamatergic signaling. By prioritizing retrieval of negative and positive over neutral memories, the VTA→DH circuit can facilitate the selection of adaptive behaviors when current and past experiences are valence congruent. The neuronal pathway that signals the positive or negative value of memories is not well understood. Here, the authors report that an excitatory projection from the ventral tegmental area to the dorsal hippocampus carries the valence information, contributing, especially in females, to the recurrence of fear and to drug seeking behavior.
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Yousuf H, Ehlers VL, Sehgal M, Song C, Moyer JR. Modulation of intrinsic excitability as a function of learning within the fear conditioning circuit. Neurobiol Learn Mem 2019; 167:107132. [PMID: 31821881 DOI: 10.1016/j.nlm.2019.107132] [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: 10/01/2019] [Accepted: 11/27/2019] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Experience-dependent neuronal plasticity is a fundamental substrate of learning and memory. Intrinsic excitability is a form of neuronal plasticity that can be altered by learning and indicates the pattern of neuronal responding to external stimuli (e.g. a learning or synaptic event). Associative fear conditioning is one form of learning that alters intrinsic excitability, reflecting an experience-dependent change in neuronal function. After fear conditioning, intrinsic excitability changes are evident in brain regions that are a critical part of the fear circuit, including the amygdala, hippocampus, retrosplenial cortex, and prefrontal cortex. Some of these changes are transient and/or reversed by extinction as well as learning-specific (i.e. they are not observed in neurons from control animals). This review will explore how intrinsic neuronal excitability changes within brain structures that are critical for fear learning, and it will also discuss evidence promoting intrinsic excitability as a vital mechanism of associative fear memories. This work has raised interesting questions regarding the role of fear learning in changes of intrinsic excitability within specific subpopulations of neurons, including those that express immediate early genes and thus demonstrate experience-dependent activity, as well as in neurons classified as having a specific firing type (e.g. burst-spiking vs. regular-spiking). These findings have interesting implications for how intrinsic excitability can serve as a neural substrate of learning and memory, and suggest that intrinsic plasticity within specific subpopulations of neurons may promote consolidation of the memory trace in a flexible and efficient manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanna Yousuf
- Department of Psychology, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI 53201, USA
| | - Vanessa L Ehlers
- Department of Psychology, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI 53201, USA
| | - Megha Sehgal
- Department of Psychology, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI 53201, USA
| | - Chenghui Song
- Department of Psychology, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI 53201, USA
| | - James R Moyer
- Department of Psychology, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI 53201, USA; Department of Biological Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI 53201, USA.
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