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Ewens AN, Pilski A, Hastings SD, Krook-Magnuson C, Graves SM, Krook-Magnuson E, Thayer SA. Levetiracetam Prevents Neurophysiological Changes and Preserves Cognitive Function in the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)-1 Transactivator of Transcription Transgenic Mouse Model of HIV-Associated Neurocognitive Disorder. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2024; 391:104-118. [PMID: 39060163 PMCID: PMC11413936 DOI: 10.1124/jpet.124.002272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2024] [Revised: 06/24/2024] [Accepted: 07/22/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-associated neurocognitive disorder (HAND) affects nearly half of the 39 million people living with HIV. HAND symptoms range from subclinical cognitive impairment to dementia; the mechanisms that underlie HAND remain unclear and there is no treatment. The HIV protein transactivator of transcription (TAT) is thought to contribute to HAND because it persists in the central nervous system and elicits neurotoxicity in animal models. Network hyperexcitability is associated with accelerated cognitive decline in neurodegenerative disorders. Here we show that the antiepileptic drug levetiracetam (LEV) attenuated aberrant excitatory synaptic transmission, protected synaptic plasticity, reduced seizure susceptibility, and preserved cognition in inducible TAT (iTAT) transgenic male mice. iTAT mice had an increased frequency of spontaneous excitatory postsynaptic currents in hippocampal slice recordings and impaired long-term potentiation, a form of synaptic plasticity that underlies learning and memory. Two-week administration of LEV by osmotic minipump prevented both impairments. Kainic acid administered to iTAT mice induced a higher maximum behavioral seizure score, longer seizure duration, and shorter latency to first seizure, consistent with a lower seizure threshold. LEV treatment prevented these in vivo signs of hyperexcitability. Lastly, in the Barnes maze, iTAT mice required more time to reach the goal, committed more errors, and received lower cognitive scores relative to iTAT mice treated with LEV. Thus, TAT expression drives functional deficits, suggesting a causative role in HAND. As LEV not only prevented aberrant synaptic activity in iTAT mice but also prevented cognitive dysfunction, it may provide a promising pharmacological approach to the treatment of HAND. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: Approximately half of people living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) also suffer from HIV-associated neurocognitive disorder (HAND), for which there is no treatment. The HIV protein transactivator of transcription (TAT) causes toxicity that is thought to contribute to HAND. Here, the antiepileptic drug levetiracetam (LEV) prevented synaptic and cognitive impairments in a TAT-expressing mouse. LEV is widely used to treat seizures and is well-tolerated in humans, including those with HIV. This study supports further investigation of LEV-mediated neuroprotection in HAND.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley N Ewens
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota (A.N.E., A.P., S.M.G., S.A.T.); and Department of Neuroscience, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota (S.D.H., C.K.-M., E.K.-M.)
| | - Alexander Pilski
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota (A.N.E., A.P., S.M.G., S.A.T.); and Department of Neuroscience, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota (S.D.H., C.K.-M., E.K.-M.)
| | - Shayne D Hastings
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota (A.N.E., A.P., S.M.G., S.A.T.); and Department of Neuroscience, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota (S.D.H., C.K.-M., E.K.-M.)
| | - Chris Krook-Magnuson
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota (A.N.E., A.P., S.M.G., S.A.T.); and Department of Neuroscience, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota (S.D.H., C.K.-M., E.K.-M.)
| | - Steven M Graves
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota (A.N.E., A.P., S.M.G., S.A.T.); and Department of Neuroscience, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota (S.D.H., C.K.-M., E.K.-M.)
| | - Esther Krook-Magnuson
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota (A.N.E., A.P., S.M.G., S.A.T.); and Department of Neuroscience, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota (S.D.H., C.K.-M., E.K.-M.)
| | - Stanley A Thayer
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota (A.N.E., A.P., S.M.G., S.A.T.); and Department of Neuroscience, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota (S.D.H., C.K.-M., E.K.-M.)
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2
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Tao X, Zhou Y, Wang Z, Wang L, Xia T, Yan M, Chang Q. Cajaninstilbene acid ameliorates depression-like behaviors in mice by suppressing TLR4/NF-κB mediated neuroinflammation and promoting autophagy. Behav Brain Res 2024; 471:115142. [PMID: 38972486 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2024.115142] [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: 04/03/2024] [Revised: 06/22/2024] [Accepted: 07/04/2024] [Indexed: 07/09/2024]
Abstract
Depression is a life-threatening neurodegenerative disease lacking a complete cure. Cajaninstilbene acid (CSA), a potent stilbene compound, has demonstrated neuroprotective effects, however, studies on its antidepressant mechanisms are still scarce. This study examined the effects of CSA on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced and chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS)-induced depression in mice, investigating its mechanisms related to inflammation and autophagy. Mice were treated with CSA (7.5, 15, and 30 mg/kg) daily for 3 weeks before intraperitoneal LPS injection (0.8 mg/kg). Another cohort underwent the same doses of CSA (7.5-30 mg/kg) daily for 6 weeks in accompany with CUMS stimulation. Behavioral assessments were conducted, and cortical samples were collected for molecular analysis. Findings indicate that CSA ameliorated depressive behaviors induced by both LPS and CUMS. Notably, CSA (15 mg/kg) reversed despair behavior in mice more persistently than amitriptyline, indicating that optimal doses of CSA may effectively decelerate the procession of mood despair and yield a good compliance. CSA countered CUMS-induced activation of TLR4/NF-κB pathway and the reduction in autophagy levels. Furthermore, CSA attenuated the CUMS-induced decline in neuroplasticity. Collectively, these findings suggest that CSA mitigates depression-like behaviors in mice by inhibiting TLR4/NF-κB-mediated neuroinflammation and enhancing autophagy. This research provides further insights into CSA's mechanisms of action in ameliorating depressive behaviors, offering a scientific foundation for developing CSA-based antidepressants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue Tao
- Department of Research, Beijing Rehabilitation Hospital Affiliated to Capital Medical University, Beijing 100144, China; Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Yunfeng Zhou
- Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100193, China; School of Pharmacy, Henan University, Kaifeng, 475004, China
| | - Zhi Wang
- Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Lisha Wang
- Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100193, China; Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Division of Neurogeriatrics, Karolinska Institute, Solna 17164, Sweden
| | - Tianji Xia
- Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Mingzhu Yan
- Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100193, China.
| | - Qi Chang
- Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100193, China.
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3
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Clathrin-nanoparticles deliver BDNF to hippocampus and enhance neurogenesis, synaptogenesis and cognition in HIV/neuroAIDS mouse model. Commun Biol 2022; 5:236. [PMID: 35301411 PMCID: PMC8931075 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-022-03177-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2020] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) promotes the growth, differentiation, maintenance and survival of neurons. These attributes make BDNF a potentially powerful therapeutic agent. However, its charge, instability in blood, and poor blood brain barrier (BBB) penetrability have impeded its development. Here, we show that engineered clathrin triskelia (CT) conjugated to BDNF (BDNF-CT) and delivered intranasally increased hippocampal BDNF concentrations 400-fold above that achieved previously with intranasal BDNF alone. We also show that BDNF-CT targeted Tropomyosin receptor kinase B (TrkB) and increased TrkB expression and downstream signaling in iTat mouse brains. Mice were induced to conditionally express neurotoxic HIV Transactivator-of-Transcription (Tat) protein that decreases BDNF. Down-regulation of BDNF is correlated with increased severity of HIV/neuroAIDS. BDNF-CT enhanced neurorestorative effects in the hippocampus including newborn cell proliferation and survival, granule cell neurogenesis, synaptogenesis and increased dendritic integrity. BDNF-CT exerted cognitive-enhancing effects by reducing Tat-induced learning and memory deficits. These results show that CT bionanoparticles efficiently deliver BDNF to the brain, making them potentially powerful tools in regenerative medicine.
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Huang Q, Wang P, Liu H, Li M, Yue Y, Xu P. Inhibition of ERK1/2 regulates cognitive function by decreasing expression levels of PSD-95 in the Hippocampus of CIH Rats. Eur J Neurosci 2022; 55:1471-1482. [PMID: 35243702 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.15635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2021] [Revised: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 02/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) is a potentially severe sleep disorder characterized by intermittent hypoxia, and there is growing evidence that OSAS can lead to cognitive decline. Extracellular signal-regulated protein kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2) plays a key role in synaptic plasticity. We established CIH model in male SD rats and examined their expression of p-ERK1/2 and PSD-95, as well as in CIH group, the effect of SL327 on the expression of p-ERK1/2 and PSD-95 in hippocampus of CIH model rats was observed by pretreating the experimental rats with SL327 during peak time of p-ERK1/2 expression. Mean oxygen saturation in the tail artery was lower in the CIH group. In the CIH groups exhibited increased escape latencies in the navigation test and decreased numbers of platform crossings in the space exploration test. Reduced volume, irregular structure, deepened cytoplasmic eosinophilic staining in the cytoplasm, and decreased nuclear size were found in hippocampal neurons in the 28-d CIH 、28-d CIH + SL327 group. The hippocampus of CIH rats, p-ERK expressions gradually increased with prolonged CIH exposure but decreased after SL327 treatment. Moreover, PSD-95 expressions gradually reduced in the 14-d CIH, 21-d CIH, and 28-d CIH groups but increased in the SL327-treated group. The SL327 intervention decreased p-ERK1/2 expression, increased PSD-95 expression, and improved cognitive function in CIH rats. The present findings provide some insights into the mechanisms underlying OSAS-associated cognitive impairment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qin Huang
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, China.,The second affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, China
| | - Pei Wang
- Key Laboratory of Basic Pharmacology of Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, China.,Department of Neurology, Central Hospital of Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Haijun Liu
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Basic Pharmacology of Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, China
| | - Mingjian Li
- The second affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, China
| | - Yujiao Yue
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, China
| | - Ping Xu
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, China.,Key Laboratory of Basic Pharmacology of Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, China
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5
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Confound, Cause, or Cure: The Effect of Cannabinoids on HIV-Associated Neurological Sequelae. Viruses 2021; 13:v13071242. [PMID: 34206839 PMCID: PMC8310358 DOI: 10.3390/v13071242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2021] [Revised: 06/12/2021] [Accepted: 06/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The persistence of human immunodeficiency virus-1 (HIV)-associated neurocognitive disorders (HAND) in the era of effective antiretroviral therapy suggests that modern HIV neuropathogenesis is driven, at least in part, by mechanisms distinct from the viral life cycle. Identifying more subtle mechanisms is complicated by frequent comorbidities in HIV+ populations. One of the common confounds is substance abuse, with cannabis being the most frequently used psychoactive substance among people living with HIV. The psychoactive effects of cannabis use can themselves mimic, and perhaps magnify, the cognitive deficits observed in HAND; however, the neuromodulatory and anti-inflammatory properties of cannabinoids may counter HIV-induced excitotoxicity and neuroinflammation. Here, we review our understanding of the cross talk between HIV and cannabinoids in the central nervous system by exploring both clinical observations and evidence from preclinical in vivo and in vitro models. Additionally, we comment on recent advances in human, multi-cell in vitro systems that allow for more translatable, mechanistic studies of the relationship between cannabinoid pharmacology and this uniquely human virus.
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6
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Irollo E, Luchetta J, Ho C, Nash B, Meucci O. Mechanisms of neuronal dysfunction in HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders. Cell Mol Life Sci 2021; 78:4283-4303. [PMID: 33585975 PMCID: PMC8164580 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-021-03785-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2020] [Revised: 01/14/2021] [Accepted: 01/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
HIV-associated neurocognitive disorder (HAND) is characterized by cognitive and behavioral deficits in people living with HIV. HAND is still common in patients that take antiretroviral therapies, although they tend to present with less severe symptoms. The continued prevalence of HAND in treated patients is a major therapeutic challenge, as even minor cognitive impairment decreases patient’s quality of life. Therefore, modern HAND research aims to broaden our understanding of the mechanisms that drive cognitive impairment in people with HIV and identify promising molecular pathways and targets that could be exploited therapeutically. Recent studies suggest that HAND in treated patients is at least partially induced by subtle synaptodendritic damage and disruption of neuronal networks in brain areas that mediate learning, memory, and executive functions. Although the causes of subtle neuronal dysfunction are varied, reversing synaptodendritic damage in animal models restores cognitive function and thus highlights a promising therapeutic approach. In this review, we examine evidence of synaptodendritic damage and disrupted neuronal connectivity in HAND from clinical neuroimaging and neuropathology studies and discuss studies in HAND models that define structural and functional impairment of neurotransmission. Then, we report molecular pathways, mechanisms, and comorbidities involved in this neuronal dysfunction, discuss new approaches to reverse neuronal damage, and highlight current gaps in knowledge. Continued research on the manifestation and mechanisms of synaptic injury and network dysfunction in HAND patients and experimental models will be critical if we are to develop safe and effective therapies that reverse subtle neuropathology and cognitive impairment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Irollo
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Drexel University College of Medicine, 245 N. 15th Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19102, USA
| | - Jared Luchetta
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Drexel University College of Medicine, 245 N. 15th Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19102, USA
| | - Chunta Ho
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Drexel University College of Medicine, 245 N. 15th Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19102, USA
| | - Bradley Nash
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Drexel University College of Medicine, 245 N. 15th Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19102, USA
| | - Olimpia Meucci
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Drexel University College of Medicine, 245 N. 15th Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19102, USA. .,Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Drexel University College of Medicine, 245 N. 15th Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19102, USA. .,Center for Neuroimmunology and CNS Therapeutics, Institute for Molecular Medicine and Infectious Disease, Drexel University College of Medicine, 245 N. 15th Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19102, USA.
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7
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Dos Reis RS, Sant S, Keeney H, Wagner MCE, Ayyavoo V. Modeling HIV-1 neuropathogenesis using three-dimensional human brain organoids (hBORGs) with HIV-1 infected microglia. Sci Rep 2020; 10:15209. [PMID: 32938988 PMCID: PMC7494890 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-72214-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2020] [Accepted: 08/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
HIV-1 associated neurocognitive disorder (HAND) is characterized by neuroinflammation and glial activation that, together with the release of viral proteins, trigger a pathogenic cascade resulting in synaptodendritic damage and neurodegeneration that lead to cognitive impairment. However, the molecular events underlying HIV neuropathogenesis remain elusive, mainly due to lack of brain-representative experimental systems to study HIV-CNS pathology. To fill this gap, we developed a three-dimensional (3D) human brain organoid (hBORG) model containing major cell types important for HIV-1 neuropathogenesis; neurons and astrocytes along with incorporation of HIV-infected microglia. Both infected and uninfected microglia infiltrated into hBORGs resulting in a triculture system (MG-hBORG) that mirrors the multicellular network observed in HIV-infected human brain. Moreover, the MG-hBORG model supported productive viral infection and exhibited increased inflammatory response by HIV-infected MG-hBORGs, releasing tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α) and interleukin-1 (IL-1β) and thereby mimicking the chronic neuroinflammatory environment observed in HIV-infected individuals. This model offers great promise for basic understanding of how HIV-1 infection alters the CNS compartment and induces pathological changes, paving the way for discovery of biomarkers and new therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberta S Dos Reis
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Microbiology, Graduate School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, 15261, USA
| | - Shilpa Sant
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, McGowan Institute for Regenerative Medicine, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA, 15261, USA.
- Department of Bioengineering, Swanson School of Engineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, 15261, USA.
| | - Hannah Keeney
- Department of Bioengineering, Swanson School of Engineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, 15261, USA
| | - Marc C E Wagner
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Microbiology, Graduate School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, 15261, USA
| | - Velpandi Ayyavoo
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Microbiology, Graduate School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, 15261, USA.
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8
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Gorska AM, Eugenin EA. The Glutamate System as a Crucial Regulator of CNS Toxicity and Survival of HIV Reservoirs. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2020; 10:261. [PMID: 32670889 PMCID: PMC7326772 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2020.00261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2019] [Accepted: 05/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Glutamate (Glu) is the most abundant excitatory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system (CNS). HIV-1 and viral proteins compromise glutamate synaptic transmission, resulting in poor cell-to-cell signaling and bystander toxicity. In this study, we identified that myeloid HIV-1-brain reservoirs survive in Glu and glutamine (Gln) as a major source of energy. Thus, we found a link between synaptic compromise, metabolomics of viral reservoirs, and viral persistence. In the current manuscript we will discuss all these interactions and the potential to achieve eradication and cure using this unique metabolic profile.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Maria Gorska
- Department of Neuroscience, Cell Biology, and Anatomy, The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, United States
| | - Eliseo A Eugenin
- Department of Neuroscience, Cell Biology, and Anatomy, The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, United States
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9
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Jacobs IR, Xu C, Hermes DJ, League AF, Xu C, Nath B, Jiang W, Niphakis MJ, Cravatt BF, Mackie K, Mukhopadhyay S, Lichtman AH, Ignatowska-Jankowska BM, Fitting S. Inhibitory Control Deficits Associated with Upregulation of CB 1R in the HIV-1 Tat Transgenic Mouse Model of Hand. J Neuroimmune Pharmacol 2019; 14:661-678. [PMID: 31372820 PMCID: PMC6898753 DOI: 10.1007/s11481-019-09867-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2019] [Accepted: 07/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
In the era of combined antiretroviral therapy, HIV-1 infected individuals are living longer lives; however, longevity is met with an increasing number of HIV-1 associated neurocognitive disorders (HAND) diagnoses. The transactivator of transcription (Tat) is known to mediate the neurotoxic effects in HAND by acting directly on neurons and also indirectly via its actions on glia. The Go/No-Go (GNG) task was used to examine HAND in the Tat transgenic mouse model. The GNG task involves subjects discriminating between two stimuli sets in order to determine whether or not to inhibit a previously trained response. Data reveal inhibitory control deficits in female Tat(+) mice (p = .048) and an upregulation of cannabinoid type 1 receptors (CB1R) in the infralimbic (IL) cortex in the same female Tat(+) group (p < .05). A significant negative correlation was noted between inhibitory control and IL CB1R expression (r = −.543, p = .045), with CB1R expression predicting 30% of the variance of inhibitory control (R2 = .295, p = .045). Furthermore, there was a significant increase in spontaneous excitatory postsynaptic current (sEPSC) frequencies in Tat(+) compared to Tat(−) mice (p = .008, across sexes). The increase in sEPSC frequency was significantly attenuated by bath application of PF3845, a fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) enzyme inhibitor (p < .001). Overall, the GNG task is a viable measure to assess inhibitory control deficits in Tat transgenic mice and results suggest a potential therapeutic treatment for the observed deficits with drugs which modulate endocannabinoid enzyme activity. Results of the Go/No-Go operant conditioning task reveal inhibitory control deficits in female transgenic Tat(+) mice without significantly affecting males. The demonstrated inhibitory control deficits appear to be associated with an upregulation of cannabinoid type 1 receptors (CB1R) in the infralimbic (IL) cortex in the same female Tat(+) group. ![]()
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MESH Headings
- AIDS Dementia Complex/genetics
- AIDS Dementia Complex/metabolism
- AIDS Dementia Complex/psychology
- Animals
- Disease Models, Animal
- Female
- HIV-1
- Inhibition, Psychological
- Limbic Lobe/metabolism
- Male
- Mice
- Mice, Inbred C57BL
- Mice, Transgenic
- Neurocognitive Disorders/genetics
- Neurocognitive Disorders/metabolism
- Psychomotor Performance/physiology
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB1/biosynthesis
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB1/genetics
- Up-Regulation/physiology
- tat Gene Products, Human Immunodeficiency Virus/biosynthesis
- tat Gene Products, Human Immunodeficiency Virus/genetics
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Affiliation(s)
- Ian R Jacobs
- Department of Psychology & Neuroscience, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA.
| | - Changqing Xu
- Department of Psychology & Neuroscience, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Douglas J Hermes
- Department of Psychology & Neuroscience, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Alexis F League
- Department of Psychology & Neuroscience, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Callie Xu
- Department of Psychology & Neuroscience, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Bhupendra Nath
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, North Carolina Central University, Durham, NC, 27707, USA
| | - Wei Jiang
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA
| | - Micah J Niphakis
- The Skaggs Institute for Chemical Biology, Department of Chemistry, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, 92037, USA
| | - Benjamin F Cravatt
- The Skaggs Institute for Chemical Biology, Department of Chemistry, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, 92037, USA
| | - Ken Mackie
- Department of Psychological & Brain Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, 47405, USA
| | - Somnath Mukhopadhyay
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, North Carolina Central University, Durham, NC, 27707, USA
| | - Aron H Lichtman
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, 23298, USA
| | | | - Sylvia Fitting
- Department of Psychology & Neuroscience, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA.
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10
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Abstract
Cerebral organoids are an emerging cutting-edge technology to model human brain
development and neurodevelopmental disorders, for which mouse models exhibit significant
limitations. In the human brain, synaptic connections define neural circuits, and synaptic
deficits account for various neurodevelopmental disorders. Thus, harnessing the full power
of cerebral organoids for human brain modeling requires the ability to visualize and
analyze synapses in cerebral organoids. Previously, we devised an optimized method to
generate human cerebral organoids, and showed that optimal organoids express mature-neuron
markers, including synaptic proteins and neurotransmitter receptors and transporters.
Here, we give evidence for synaptogenesis in cerebral organoids, via microscopical
visualization of synapses. We also describe multiple approaches to quantitatively analyze
synapses in cerebral organoids. Collectively, our work provides sufficient evidence for
the possibility of modeling synaptogenesis and synaptic disorders in cerebral organoids,
and may help advance the use of cerebral organoids in molecular neuroscience and studies
of neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abraam M Yakoub
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Mark Sadek
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, University of Illinois College of Pharmacy, Chicago, IL, USA.,Department of Research and Development, Akorn Pharmaceuticals, Vernon Hills, IL, USA
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11
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Zhang X, Green MV, Thayer SA. HIV gp120-induced neuroinflammation potentiates NMDA receptors to overcome basal suppression of inhibitory synapses by p38 MAPK. J Neurochem 2019; 148:499-515. [PMID: 30520043 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.14640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2018] [Revised: 11/21/2018] [Accepted: 11/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
HIV-associated neurocognitive disorder affects about half of HIV-infected patients. HIV impairs neuronal function through indirect mechanisms mainly mediated by inflammatory cytokines and neurotoxic viral proteins, such as the envelope protein gp120. HIV gp120 elicits a neuroinflammatory response that potentiates NMDA receptor function and induces the loss of excitatory synapses. How gp120 influences neuronal inhibition remains unknown. In this study, we expressed a green fluorescent protein (GFP)-tagged recombinant antibody-like protein that binds to the post-synaptic scaffolding protein gephyrin to label inhibitory synapses in living neurons. Treatment with 600 pM gp120 for 24 h increased the number of labeled inhibitory synapses. HIV gp120 evoked the release of interleukin-1β (IL-1β) from microglia to activate IL-1 receptors on neurons. Subsequent activation of the tyrosine kinase Src and GluN2A-containing NMDA receptors increased the number of inhibitory synapses via a process that required protein synthesis. In naïve cultures, inhibition of neuronal p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38 MAPK) increased the number of inhibitory synapses suggesting that p38 MAPK produces a basal suppression of inhibitory synapses that is overcome in the presence of gp120. Direct activation of a mutant form of p38 MAPK expressed in neurons mimicked basal suppression of inhibitory synapses. This study shows for the first time that gp120-induced neuroinflammation increases the number of inhibitory synapses and that this increase overcomes a basal suppression of synaptic inhibition. Increased inhibition may be an adaptive mechanism enabling neurons to counteract excess excitatory input in order to maintain network homeostasis. OPEN SCIENCE BADGES: This article has received a badge for *Open Materials* because it provided all relevant information to reproduce the study in the manuscript. The complete Open Science Disclosure form for this article can be found at the end of the article. More information about the Open Practices badges can be found at https://cos.io/our-services/open-science-badges/.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinwen Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Matthew V Green
- Graduate Program in Neuroscience, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Stanley A Thayer
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA.,Graduate Program in Neuroscience, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
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Lata S, Mishra R, Banerjea AC. Proteasomal Degradation Machinery: Favorite Target of HIV-1 Proteins. Front Microbiol 2018; 9:2738. [PMID: 30524389 PMCID: PMC6262318 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2018.02738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2018] [Accepted: 10/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Proteasomal degradation pathways play a central role in regulating a variety of protein functions by controlling not only their turnover but also the physiological behavior of the cell. This makes it an attractive target for the pathogens, especially viruses which rely on the host cellular machinery for their propagation and pathogenesis. Viruses have evolutionarily developed various strategies to manipulate the host proteasomal machinery thereby creating a cellular environment favorable for their own survival and replication. Human immunodeficiency virus-1 (HIV-1) is one of the most dreadful viruses which has rapidly spread throughout the world and caused high mortality due to its high evolution rate. Here, we review the various mechanisms adopted by HIV-1 to exploit the cellular proteasomal machinery in order to escape the host restriction factors and components of host immune system for supporting its own multiplication, and successfully created an infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sneh Lata
- Virology Lab II, National Institute of Immunology, New Delhi, India
| | - Ritu Mishra
- Virology Lab II, National Institute of Immunology, New Delhi, India
| | - Akhil C Banerjea
- Virology Lab II, National Institute of Immunology, New Delhi, India
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Zhou F, Liu X, Zuo D, Xue M, Gao L, Yang Y, Wang J, Niu L, Cao Q, Li X, Hua H, Zhang B, Hu M, Gao D, Zheng K, Izumiya Y, Tang R. HIV-1 Nef-induced lncRNA AK006025 regulates CXCL9/10/11 cluster gene expression in astrocytes through interaction with CBP/P300. J Neuroinflammation 2018; 15:303. [PMID: 30382871 PMCID: PMC6208068 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-018-1343-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2018] [Accepted: 10/23/2018] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Background HIV-associated neurocognitive disorder (HAND) is a neurodegenerative disease associated with persistent neuroinflammation and subsequent neuron damage. Pro-inflammatory factors and neurotoxins from activated astrocytes by HIV-1 itself and its encoded proteins, including the negative factor (Nef), are involved in the pathogenesis of HAND. This study was designed to find potential lncRNAs that regulate astrocyte functions and inflammation process. Methods We performed microarray analysis of lncRNAs from primary mouse astrocytes treated with Nef protein. Top ten lncRNAs were validated through real-time PCR analysis. Gene ontology (GO) and KEGG pathway analysis were applied to explore the potential functions of lncRNAs. RIP and ChIP assays were performed to demonstrate the mechanism of lncRNA regulating gene expression. Results There were 638 co-upregulated lncRNAs and 372 co-downregulated lncRNAs in primary astrocytes treated with Nef protein for both 6 h and 12 h. GO and KEGG pathway analysis showed that the biological functions of top differential-expressed mRNAs were associated with inflammatory cytokines and chemokine. Knockdown of lncRNA AK006025, not AK138360, inhibited significantly CXCL9, CXCL10 (IP-10), and CXCL11 expression in astrocytes treated with Nef protein. Mechanism study showed that AK006025 associated with CBP/P300 was enriched in the promoter of CXCL9, CXCL10, and CXCL11 genes. Conclusions Our findings uncovered the expression profiles of lncRNAs and mRNAs in vitro, which might help to understand the pathways that regulate astrocyte activation during the process of HAND. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12974-018-1343-x) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng Zhou
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Brain Disease Bioinformation, Research Center for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China. .,Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology and Laboratory of Infection and Immunity, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China.
| | - Xiaomei Liu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology and Laboratory of Infection and Immunity, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Dongjiao Zuo
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology and Laboratory of Infection and Immunity, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Min Xue
- Department of Physiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Lin Gao
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology and Laboratory of Infection and Immunity, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Ying Yang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology and Laboratory of Infection and Immunity, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Jing Wang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology and Laboratory of Infection and Immunity, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Liping Niu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology and Laboratory of Infection and Immunity, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Qianwen Cao
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology and Laboratory of Infection and Immunity, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiangyang Li
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology and Laboratory of Infection and Immunity, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Hui Hua
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology and Laboratory of Infection and Immunity, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Bo Zhang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology and Laboratory of Infection and Immunity, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Minmin Hu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology and Laboratory of Infection and Immunity, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Dianshuai Gao
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Kuiyang Zheng
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology and Laboratory of Infection and Immunity, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Yoshihiro Izumiya
- Department of Dermatology, University of California Davis (UC Davis) School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Renxian Tang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology and Laboratory of Infection and Immunity, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China.
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Abstract
A defining feature of HIV-associated neurocognitive disorder (HAND) is the loss of excitatory synaptic connections. Synaptic changes that occur during exposure to HIV appear to result, in part, from a homeostatic scaling response. Here we discuss the mechanisms of these changes from the perspective that they might be part of a coping mechanism that reduces synapses to prevent excitotoxicity. In transgenic animals expressing the HIV proteins Tat or gp120, the loss of synaptic markers precedes changes in neuronal number. In vitro studies have shown that HIV-induced synapse loss and cell death are mediated by distinct mechanisms. Both in vitro and animal studies suggest that HIV-induced synaptic scaling engages new mechanisms that suppress network connectivity and that these processes might be amenable to therapeutic intervention. Indeed, pharmacological reversal of synapse loss induced by HIV Tat restores cognitive function. In summary, studies indicate that there are temporal, mechanistic and pharmacological features of HIV-induced synapse loss that are consistent with homeostatic plasticity. The increasingly well delineated signaling mechanisms that regulate synaptic scaling may reveal pharmacological targets suitable for normalizing synaptic function in chronic neuroinflammatory states such as HAND.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew V Green
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA
| | - Jonathan D Raybuck
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA
| | - Xinwen Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA
| | - Mariah M Wu
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA
| | - Stanley A Thayer
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA.
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Zhang X, Thayer SA. Monoacylglycerol lipase inhibitor JZL184 prevents HIV-1 gp120-induced synapse loss by altering endocannabinoid signaling. Neuropharmacology 2018; 128:269-281. [PMID: 29061509 PMCID: PMC5752128 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2017.10.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2017] [Revised: 10/16/2017] [Accepted: 10/19/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Monoacylglycerol lipase (MGL) hydrolyzes 2-arachidonoylglycerol to arachidonic acid and glycerol. Inhibition of MGL may attenuate neuroinflammation by enhancing endocannabinoid signaling and decreasing prostaglandin (PG) production. Almost half of HIV infected individuals are afflicted with HIV-associated neurocognitive disorder (HAND), a neuroinflammatory disease in which cognitive decline correlates with synapse loss. HIV infected cells shed the envelope protein gp120 which is a potent neurotoxin that induces synapse loss. Here, we tested whether inhibition of MGL, using the selective inhibitor JZL184, would prevent synapse loss induced by gp120. The number of synapses between rat hippocampal neurons in culture was quantified by imaging clusters of a GFP-tagged antibody-like protein that selectively binds to the postsynaptic scaffolding protein, PSD95. JZL184 completely blocked gp120-induced synapse loss. Inhibition of MGL decreased gp120-induced interleukin-1β (IL-1β) production and subsequent potentiation of NMDA receptor-mediated calcium influx. JZL184-mediated protection of synapses was reversed by a selective cannabinoid type 2 receptor (CB2R) inverse agonist/antagonist. JZL184 also reduced gp120-induced prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) production; PG signaling was required for gp120-induced IL-1β expression and synapse loss. Inhibition of MGL prevented gp120-induced synapse loss by activating CB2R resulting in decreased production of the inflammatory cytokine IL-1β. Because PG signaling was required for gp120-induced synapse loss, JZL184-induced decreases in PGE2 levels may also protect synapses. MGL presents a promising target for preventing synapse loss in neuroinflammatory conditions such as HAND.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinwen Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Stanley A Thayer
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, USA.
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A GluN2B-Selective NMDAR Antagonist Reverses Synapse Loss and Cognitive Impairment Produced by the HIV-1 Protein Tat. J Neurosci 2017; 37:7837-7847. [PMID: 28716964 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.0226-17.2017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2017] [Revised: 05/18/2017] [Accepted: 07/07/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
HIV-associated neurocognitive disorder (HAND) affects approximately half of HIV-infected patients. Loss of synaptic connections is a hallmark of many neurocognitive disorders, including HAND. The HIV-1 protein transactivator of transcription (Tat) disrupts synaptic connections both in vitro and in vivo and has been linked to impaired neurocognitive function in humans. In vitro studies have shown that ifenprodil, an antagonist selective for GluN2B-containing NMDARs, reverses synapse loss when applied after Tat. Here, we tested the hypothesis that Tat-induced loss and ifenprodil-mediated rescue of synaptic spines in vivo would predict impairment and rescue of cognitive function. Using intracranial multiphoton imaging, we found that infusion of 100 ng of HIV-1 Tat into the lateral ventricle of yellow fluorescent protein-expressing transgenic mice produced a 17 ± 1% loss of dendritic spines in layer 1 of retrosplenial cortex. Repeated imaging of the same dendrites over 3 weeks enabled longitudinal experiments that demonstrated sustained spine loss after Tat infusion and transient rescue after ifenprodil administration (10 mg/kg, i.p.). Parallel trace fear conditioning experiments showed that spine loss predicted learning deficits and that the time course of ifenprodil-induced rescue of spine density correlated with restoration of cognitive function. These results show for the first time that, during exposure to an HIV-1 neurotoxin in vivo, alteration of GluN2B-containing NMDAR signaling suppresses spine density and impairs learning. Pharmacological inhibition of these NMDARs rescued spines and restored cognitive function. Drugs that rescue synapses may improve neurocognitive function in HAND.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Synaptodendritic damage correlates with cognitive decline in HIV-associated neurocognitive disorder (HAND) patients. We developed an in vivo imaging approach for longitudinal tracking of spine density that enabled correlation of synaptic changes with behavioral outcomes in a model of HAND. We show for the first time that spine loss after exposure to an HIV-1 protein can be reversed pharmacologically and that loss and recovery of dendritic spines predict impairment and restoration of cognitive function, respectively. Therefore, synapse loss, the hallmark of cognitive decline in HAND, is reversible. Drugs that restore spine density may have broad application for improving cognitive function during the early phases of neurodegenerative diseases.
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