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Molinaro G, Bowles JE, Croom K, Gonzalez D, Mirjafary S, Birnbaum SG, Razak KA, Gibson JR, Huber KM. Female-specific dysfunction of sensory neocortical circuits in a mouse model of autism mediated by mGluR5 and estrogen receptor α. Cell Rep 2024; 43:114056. [PMID: 38581678 PMCID: PMC11112681 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2024.114056] [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: 08/17/2023] [Revised: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Little is known of the brain mechanisms that mediate sex-specific autism symptoms. Here, we demonstrate that deletion of the autism spectrum disorder (ASD)-risk gene, Pten, in neocortical pyramidal neurons (NSEPten knockout [KO]) results in robust cortical circuit hyperexcitability selectively in female mice observed as prolonged spontaneous persistent activity states. Circuit hyperexcitability in females is mediated by metabotropic glutamate receptor 5 (mGluR5) and estrogen receptor α (ERα) signaling to mitogen-activated protein kinases (Erk1/2) and de novo protein synthesis. Pten KO layer 5 neurons have a female-specific increase in mGluR5 and mGluR5-dependent protein synthesis. Furthermore, mGluR5-ERα complexes are generally elevated in female cortices, and genetic reduction of ERα rescues enhanced circuit excitability, protein synthesis, and neuron size selectively in NSEPten KO females. Female NSEPten KO mice display deficits in sensory processing and social behaviors as well as mGluR5-dependent seizures. These results reveal mechanisms by which sex and a high-confidence ASD-risk gene interact to affect brain function and behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gemma Molinaro
- Department of Neuroscience, O'Donnell Brain Institute, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Jacob E Bowles
- Department of Neuroscience, O'Donnell Brain Institute, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Katilynne Croom
- Graduate Neuroscience Program, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA, USA
| | - Darya Gonzalez
- Department of Neuroscience, O'Donnell Brain Institute, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Saba Mirjafary
- Department of Neuroscience, O'Donnell Brain Institute, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Shari G Birnbaum
- Department of Psychiatry, O'Donnell Brain Institute, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Khaleel A Razak
- Graduate Neuroscience Program, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA, USA; Department of Psychology, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA, USA
| | - Jay R Gibson
- Department of Neuroscience, O'Donnell Brain Institute, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Kimberly M Huber
- Department of Neuroscience, O'Donnell Brain Institute, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA.
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2
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Molinaro G, Bowles JE, Croom K, Gonzalez D, Mirjafary S, Birnbaum S, Razak KA, Gibson JR, Huber KM. Female specific dysfunction of sensory neocortical circuits in a mouse model of autism mediated by mGluR5 and Estrogen Receptor α. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2023.08.10.552857. [PMID: 37609208 PMCID: PMC10441407 DOI: 10.1101/2023.08.10.552857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/24/2023]
Abstract
Autism manifests differently in males and females and the brain mechanisms that mediate these sex-dependent differences are unknown. Here, we demonstrate that deletion of the ASD-risk gene, Pten, in neocortical pyramidal neurons (NSE Pten KO) results in robust hyperexcitability of local neocortical circuits in female, but not male, mice, observed as prolonged, spontaneous persistent activity states (UP states). Circuit hyperexcitability in NSE Pten KO mice is mediated by enhanced and/or altered signaling of metabotropic glutamate receptor 5 (mGluR5) and estrogen receptor α (ERα) to ERK and protein synthesis selectively in Pten deleted female neurons. In support of this idea, Pten deleted Layer 5 cortical neurons have female-specific increases in mGluR5 and mGluR5-driven protein synthesis. In addition, mGluR5-ERα complexes are elevated in female cortex and genetic reduction of ERα in Pten KO cortical neurons rescues circuit excitability, protein synthesis and enlarged neurons selectively in females. Abnormal timing and hyperexcitability of neocortical circuits in female NSE Pten KO mice are associated with deficits in temporal processing of sensory stimuli and social behaviors as well as mGluR5-dependent seizures. Female-specific cortical hyperexcitability and mGluR5-dependent seizures are also observed in a human disease relevant mouse model, germline Pten +/- mice. Our results reveal molecular mechanisms by which sex and a high impact ASD-risk gene interact to affect brain function and behavior.
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D'Antoni S, Schiavi S, Buzzelli V, Giuffrida S, Feo A, Ascone F, Busceti CL, Nicoletti F, Trezza V, Catania MV. Group I and group II metabotropic glutamate receptors are upregulated in the synapses of infant rats prenatally exposed to valproic acid. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2023; 240:2617-2629. [PMID: 37707611 PMCID: PMC10640443 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-023-06457-w] [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: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 09/15/2023]
Abstract
RATIONALE Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by impaired social interaction and restricted/stereotyped behavior. Prenatal exposure to valproic acid (VPA) is associated with an increased risk of developing ASD in humans and autistic-like behaviors in rodents. Increasing evidence indicates that dysfunctions of glutamate receptors at synapses are associated with ASD. In the VPA rat model, an involvement of glutamate receptors in autism-like phenotypes has been suggested; however, few studies were carried out on metabotropic glutamate (mGlu) receptors. OBJECTIVES We examined the protein expression levels of group I (mGlu1 and mGlu5) and group II (mGlu2/3) mGlu receptors in rats prenatally exposed to VPA and evaluated the effect of mGlu receptor modulation on an early autism-like phenotype in these animals. METHODS We used western blotting analysis on synaptosomes obtained from forebrain of control and VPA rats at different ages (postnatal day P13, 35, 90) and carried out ultrasonic vocalization (USV) emission test in infant control and VPA rats. RESULTS The expression levels of all these receptors were significantly increased in infant VPA rats. No changes were detected in adolescent and adult rats. An acute treatment with the preferential mGlu2/3 antagonist, LY341495, attenuated the impairment in the USV emission in VPA rats. No effect was observed after a treatment with the mGlu5 selective antagonist, MTEP. CONCLUSIONS Our findings demonstrate that the expression of group I and group II mGlu receptors is upregulated at synapses of infant VPA rats and suggest that mGlu2/3 receptor modulation may have a therapeutic potential in ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simona D'Antoni
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council (IRIB-CNR), Catania, Italy
| | - Sara Schiavi
- Department of Science, Section of Biomedical Sciences and Technologies, University "Roma Tre", Rome, Italy
| | - Valeria Buzzelli
- Department of Science, Section of Biomedical Sciences and Technologies, University "Roma Tre", Rome, Italy
| | - Samuele Giuffrida
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council (IRIB-CNR), Catania, Italy
| | - Alessandro Feo
- Department of Science, Section of Biomedical Sciences and Technologies, University "Roma Tre", Rome, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Ascone
- Department of Science, Section of Biomedical Sciences and Technologies, University "Roma Tre", Rome, Italy
| | | | - Ferdinando Nicoletti
- IRCCS Neuromed, Pozzilli, Italy
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Viviana Trezza
- Department of Science, Section of Biomedical Sciences and Technologies, University "Roma Tre", Rome, Italy
- Neuroendocrinology, Metabolism and Neuropharmacology Unit, IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Vincenza Catania
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council (IRIB-CNR), Catania, Italy.
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4
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Cagnetta R, Flanagan JG, Sonenberg N. Control of Selective mRNA Translation in Neuronal Subcellular Compartments in Health and Disease. J Neurosci 2023; 43:7247-7263. [PMID: 37914402 PMCID: PMC10621772 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.2240-22.2023] [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: 12/06/2022] [Revised: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023] Open
Abstract
In multiple cell types, mRNAs are transported to subcellular compartments, where local translation enables rapid, spatially localized, and specific responses to external stimuli. Mounting evidence has uncovered important roles played by local translation in vivo in axon survival, axon regeneration, and neural wiring, as well as strong links between dysregulation of local translation and neurologic disorders. Omic studies have revealed that >1000 mRNAs are present and can be selectively locally translated in the presynaptic and postsynaptic compartments from development to adulthood in vivo A large proportion of the locally translated mRNAs is specifically upregulated or downregulated in response to distinct extracellular signals. Given that the local translatome is large, selectively translated, and cue-specifically remodeled, a fundamental question concerns how selective translation is achieved locally. Here, we review the emerging regulatory mechanisms of local selective translation in neuronal subcellular compartments, their mRNA targets, and their orchestration. We discuss mechanisms of local selective translation that remain unexplored. Finally, we describe clinical implications and potential therapeutic strategies in light of the latest advances in gene therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberta Cagnetta
- Department of Biochemistry and Goodman Cancer Institute, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3A 1A3, Canada
| | - John G Flanagan
- Department of Cell Biology and Program in Neuroscience, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115
| | - Nahum Sonenberg
- Department of Biochemistry and Goodman Cancer Institute, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3A 1A3, Canada
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5
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Lim S, Lee S. Chemical Modulators for Targeting Autism Spectrum Disorders: From Bench to Clinic. Molecules 2022; 27:molecules27165088. [PMID: 36014340 PMCID: PMC9414776 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27165088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2022] [Revised: 08/05/2022] [Accepted: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are neurodevelopmental disorders characterized by diverse behavioral symptoms such as repetitive behaviors, social deficits, anxiety, hyperactivity, and irritability. Despite their increasing incidence, the specific pathological mechanisms of ASD are still unknown, and the degree and types of symptoms that vary from patient to patient make it difficult to develop drugs that target the core symptoms of ASD. Although various atypical antipsychotics and antidepressants have been applied to regulate ASD symptoms, these drugs can only alleviate the symptoms and do not target the major causes. Therefore, development of novel drugs targeting factors directly related to the onset of ASD is required. Among the various factors related to the onset of ASD, several chemical modulators to treat ASD, focused on serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine, 5-HT) and glutamate receptors, microbial metabolites, and inflammatory cytokines, are explored in this study. In particular, we focus on the chemical drugs that have improved various aspects of ASD symptoms in animal models and in clinical trials for various ages of patients with ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Songhyun Lim
- Creative Research Center for Brain Science, Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul 02792, Korea
| | - Sanghee Lee
- Creative Research Center for Brain Science, Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul 02792, Korea
- Department of HY-KIST Bio-Convergence, Hanyang University, Seoul 04763, Korea
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +82-2-958-5138
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6
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Lewis V, Rodrigue B, Arsenault E, Zhang M, Taghavi-Abkuh FF, Silva WCC, Myers M, Matta-Camacho E, Aguilar-Valles A. Translational control by ketamine and its implications for comorbid cognitive deficits in depressive disorders. J Neurochem 2022. [PMID: 35680556 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.15652] [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: 04/17/2022] [Revised: 05/19/2022] [Accepted: 05/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Ketamine has shown antidepressant effects in patients with major depressive disorder (MDD) resistant to first-line treatments and approved for use in this patient population. Ketamine induces several forms of synaptic plasticity, which are proposed to underlie its antidepressant effects. However, the molecular mechanism of action directly responsible for ketamine's antidepressant effects remains under active investigation. It was recently demonstrated that the effectors of the mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) signalling pathway, namely, eukaryotic initiation factor 4E (eIF4E) binding proteins 1 and 2 (4E-BP1 and 4E-BP2), are central in mediating ketamine-induced synaptic plasticity and behavioural antidepressant-like effect. 4E-BPs are a family of messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) translation repressors inactivated by mTORC1. We observed that their expression in inhibitory interneurons mediates ketamine's effects in the forced swim and novelty suppressed feeding tests and the long-lasting inhibition of GABAergic neurotransmission in the hippocampus. In addition, another effector pathway that regulates translation elongation downstream of mTORC1, the eukaryotic elongation factor 2 kinase (eEF2K), has been implicated in ketamine's behavioural effects. We will discuss how ketamine's rapid antidepressant effect depends on the activation of neuronal mRNA translation through 4E-BP1/2 and eEF2K. Furthermore, given that these pathways also regulate cognitive functions, we will discuss the evidence of ketamine's effect on cognitive function in MDD. Overall, the data accrued from pre-clinical research have implicated the mRNA translation pathways in treating mood symptoms of MDD. However, it is yet unclear whether the pro-cognitive potential of subanesthetic ketamine in rodents also engages these pathways and whether such an effect is consistently observed in the treatment-resistant MDD population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vern Lewis
- Department of Neuroscience, Carleton University, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Brandon Rodrigue
- Department of Neuroscience, Carleton University, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Emily Arsenault
- Department of Neuroscience, Carleton University, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Molly Zhang
- Department of Neuroscience, Carleton University, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | | | | | - Mysa Myers
- Department of Neuroscience, Carleton University, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Edna Matta-Camacho
- Department of Neuroscience, Carleton University, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
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7
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Saviuk N, Chong Y, Wang P, Bermudez S, Zhao Z, Bhaskaran AA, Bowie D, Sonenberg N, Cooper E, Haghighi AP. Loss of 4E-BP converts cerebellar long-term depression to long-term potentiation. Cell Rep 2022; 39:110911. [PMID: 35675781 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2022.110911] [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: 03/16/2021] [Revised: 10/31/2021] [Accepted: 05/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Genetic perturbances in translational regulation result in defects in cerebellar motor learning; however, little is known about the role of translational mechanisms in the regulation of cerebellar plasticity. We show that genetic removal of 4E-BP, a translational suppressor and target of mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1, results in a striking change in cerebellar synaptic plasticity. We find that cerebellar long-term depression (LTD) at parallel fiber-Purkinje cell synapses is converted to long-term potentiation in 4E-BP knockout mice. Biochemical and pharmacological experiments suggest that increased phosphatase activity largely accounts for the defects in LTD. Our results point to a model in which translational regulation through the action of 4E-BP plays a critical role in establishing the appropriate kinase/phosphatase balance required for normal synaptic plasticity in the cerebellum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natasha Saviuk
- Integrated Program in Neuroscience, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada; Department of Physiology, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Yumaine Chong
- Integrated Program in Neuroscience, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada; Department of Physiology, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Peng Wang
- Biochemistry, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Sara Bermudez
- Biochemistry, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Zhe Zhao
- Integrated Program in Neuroscience, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Arjun A Bhaskaran
- Integrated Program in Neuroscience, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada; Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Derek Bowie
- Integrated Program in Neuroscience, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada; Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | | | - Ellis Cooper
- Integrated Program in Neuroscience, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada; Department of Physiology, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada.
| | - A Pejmun Haghighi
- Integrated Program in Neuroscience, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada; Department of Physiology, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada; Buck Institute for Research on Aging, Novato, CA, USA.
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8
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Nisar S, Bhat AA, Masoodi T, Hashem S, Akhtar S, Ali TA, Amjad S, Chawla S, Bagga P, Frenneaux MP, Reddy R, Fakhro K, Haris M. Genetics of glutamate and its receptors in autism spectrum disorder. Mol Psychiatry 2022; 27:2380-2392. [PMID: 35296811 PMCID: PMC9135628 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-022-01506-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2021] [Revised: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental impairment characterized by deficits in social interaction skills, impaired communication, and repetitive and restricted behaviors that are thought to be due to altered neurotransmission processes. The amino acid glutamate is an essential excitatory neurotransmitter in the human brain that regulates cognitive functions such as learning and memory, which are usually impaired in ASD. Over the last several years, increasing evidence from genetics, neuroimaging, protein expression, and animal model studies supporting the notion of altered glutamate metabolism has heightened the interest in evaluating glutamatergic dysfunction in ASD. Numerous pharmacological, behavioral, and imaging studies have demonstrated the imbalance in excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmitters, thus revealing the involvement of the glutamatergic system in ASD pathology. Here, we review the effects of genetic alterations on glutamate and its receptors in ASD and the role of non-invasive imaging modalities in detecting these changes. We also highlight the potential therapeutic targets associated with impaired glutamatergic pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabah Nisar
- Laboratory of Molecular and Metabolic Imaging, Sidra Medicine, P.O. Box 26999, Doha, Qatar
| | - Ajaz A Bhat
- Laboratory of Molecular and Metabolic Imaging, Sidra Medicine, P.O. Box 26999, Doha, Qatar
| | - Tariq Masoodi
- Laboratory of Molecular and Metabolic Imaging, Sidra Medicine, P.O. Box 26999, Doha, Qatar
| | - Sheema Hashem
- Laboratory of Molecular and Metabolic Imaging, Sidra Medicine, P.O. Box 26999, Doha, Qatar
| | - Sabah Akhtar
- Laboratory of Molecular and Metabolic Imaging, Sidra Medicine, P.O. Box 26999, Doha, Qatar
| | - Tayyiba Akbar Ali
- Laboratory of Molecular and Metabolic Imaging, Sidra Medicine, P.O. Box 26999, Doha, Qatar
| | - Sara Amjad
- Shibli National College, Azamgarh, Uttar Pradesh, 276001, India
| | - Sanjeev Chawla
- Department of Radiology, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Puneet Bagga
- Department of Diagnostic Imaging, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, 38105, USA
| | - Michael P Frenneaux
- Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, P.O. Box 3050, Doha, Qatar
| | - Ravinder Reddy
- Center for Advanced Metabolic Imaging in Precision Medicine, Department of Radiology, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Khalid Fakhro
- Department of Human Genetics, Sidra Medicine, P.O. Box 26999, Doha, Qatar
- Department of Genetic Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, P.O. Box 24144, Doha, Qatar
| | - Mohammad Haris
- Laboratory of Molecular and Metabolic Imaging, Sidra Medicine, P.O. Box 26999, Doha, Qatar.
- Center for Advanced Metabolic Imaging in Precision Medicine, Department of Radiology, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA.
- Laboratory of Animal Research, Qatar University, P.O. Box 2713, Doha, Qatar.
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9
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Montanari M, Martella G, Bonsi P, Meringolo M. Autism Spectrum Disorder: Focus on Glutamatergic Neurotransmission. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23073861. [PMID: 35409220 PMCID: PMC8998955 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23073861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Revised: 03/24/2022] [Accepted: 03/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Disturbances in the glutamatergic system have been increasingly documented in several neuropsychiatric disorders, including autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Glutamate-centered theories of ASD are based on evidence from patient samples and postmortem studies, as well as from studies documenting abnormalities in glutamatergic gene expression and metabolic pathways, including changes in the gut microbiota glutamate metabolism in patients with ASD. In addition, preclinical studies on animal models have demonstrated glutamatergic neurotransmission deficits and altered expression of glutamate synaptic proteins. At present, there are no approved glutamatergic drugs for ASD, but several ongoing clinical trials are currently focusing on evaluating in autistic patients glutamatergic pharmaceuticals already approved for other conditions. In this review, we provide an overview of the literature concerning the role of glutamatergic neurotransmission in the pathophysiology of ASD and as a potential target for novel treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Montanari
- Laboratory of Neurophysiology and Plasticity, IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia, 00179 Rome, Italy; (M.M.); (G.M.)
- Department of Systems Neuroscience, University Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppina Martella
- Laboratory of Neurophysiology and Plasticity, IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia, 00179 Rome, Italy; (M.M.); (G.M.)
| | - Paola Bonsi
- Laboratory of Neurophysiology and Plasticity, IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia, 00179 Rome, Italy; (M.M.); (G.M.)
- Correspondence: (P.B.); (M.M.)
| | - Maria Meringolo
- Laboratory of Neurophysiology and Plasticity, IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia, 00179 Rome, Italy; (M.M.); (G.M.)
- Correspondence: (P.B.); (M.M.)
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10
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Sadananda G, Velmurugan JD, Subramaniam JR. DMSO Delays Alzheimer Disease Causing Aβ-induced Paralysis in C. elegans Through Modulation of Glutamate/Acetylcholine Neurotransmission. Ann Neurosci 2021; 28:55-64. [PMID: 34733055 PMCID: PMC8558977 DOI: 10.1177/09727531211046369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2021] [Accepted: 08/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Alzheimer’s disease (AD), a prevalent neurodegenerative disease with
progressive dementia and neurotransmission (NT)-dysfunction-related
complications in older adults, is known to be caused by abnormal Amyloid-β
(Aβ) peptide and associated amyloid plaques in the brain. Drugs to cure AD
are not in sight. Two major excitatory neurotransmitters, glutamate (Glu)
and acetylcholine (ACh), and their signaling systems are implicated in
AD. Objective: To determine the effect of various NT-altering compounds including fenobam,
quisqualic acid, and dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) in the protection against Aβ
toxicity. Further, to identify the potential mechanism through which the
protection happens. Methods: The well-known C. elegans AD model, CL4176, in which human
Aβ expression is turned on upon a temperature shift to 25 °C that leads to
paralysis, was screened for protection/delay in paralysis because of Αβ
toxicity. While screening the compounds, dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), a
universal solvent used to solubilize compounds, was identified to provide
protection. Aldicarb and levamisole assays were performed to identify the
contribution of ACh neurotransmission in Αβ toxicity protection by DMSO. Results: One percent and two percent DMSO delayed paralysis by 48% and 90%,
respectively. DMSO was dominant over one of the Glu-NT pathway-related
compounds, Fenobam-Group I mGluR antagonist. But DMSO provided only 30% to
50% protection against Quisqualic acid, the Glu-agonist. DMSO (2%) delayed
ACh-NT, both presynaptic acetylcholine esterase inhibitor (AchEi)-aldicarb
and postsynaptic-iAChR-agonst-levamisole induced paralysis, by ∼70% in
CL4176. DMSO seems to be altering Ca2+ ion permeability essential
for NT as EthyleneDiamine Tetra-Acetic acid (EDTA) and DMSO provided similar
aldicarb resistance either combined or alone in wildtype worms. But
postsynaptic Ca2+ depletion by EDTA could reverse DMSO-induced
levamisole hypersensitivity. Surprisingly, the absence of FOrkhead boXO
(FOXO) transcription factor homolog, daf-16
(loss-of-function mutant), a critical transcription factor in the reduced
IIS-mediated longevity in C. elegans, abolished
DMSO-mediated AldR. Conclusion: DMSO and Fenobam protect against Aβ toxicity through modulation of NT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Girish Sadananda
- Center for Preclinical and Translational Medicine Research, Central Research Facility, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Janaki Devi Velmurugan
- Center for Preclinical and Translational Medicine Research, Central Research Facility, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Jamuna R Subramaniam
- Center for Preclinical and Translational Medicine Research, Central Research Facility, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
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11
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Sato A, Ikeda K. Genetic and Environmental Contributions to Autism Spectrum Disorder Through Mechanistic Target of Rapamycin. BIOLOGICAL PSYCHIATRY GLOBAL OPEN SCIENCE 2021; 2:95-105. [PMID: 36325164 PMCID: PMC9616270 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpsgos.2021.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2021] [Revised: 08/17/2021] [Accepted: 08/18/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects an individual’s reciprocal social interaction and communication ability. Numerous genetic and environmental conditions are associated with ASD, including tuberous sclerosis complex, phosphatase and tensin homolog hamartoma tumor syndrome, fragile X syndrome, and neurofibromatosis 1. The pathogenic molecular mechanisms of these diseases are integrated into the hyperactivation of mTORC1 (mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1). Rodent models of these diseases have shown high mTORC1 activity in the brain and ASD-related behavioral deficits, which were reversed by the mTORC1 inhibitor rapamycin. Environmental stress can also affect this signaling pathway. In utero exposure to valproate caused ASD in offspring and enhanced mTORC1 activity in the brain, which was sensitive to mTORC1 inhibition. mTORC1 is a signaling hub for diverse cellular functions, including protein synthesis, through the phosphorylation of its targets, such as ribosomal protein S6 kinases. Metabotropic glutamate receptor 5–mediated synaptic function is also affected by the dysregulation of mTORC1 activity, such as in fragile X syndrome and tuberous sclerosis complex. Reversing these downstream changes that are associated with mTORC1 activation normalizes behavioral defects in rodents. Despite abundant preclinical evidence, few clinical studies have investigated the treatment of ASD and cognitive deficits. Therapeutics other than mTORC1 inhibitors failed to show efficacy in fragile X syndrome and neurofibromatosis 1. mTORC1 inhibitors have been tested mainly in tuberous sclerosis complex, and their effects on ASD and neuropsychological deficits are promising. mTORC1 is a promising target for the pharmacological treatment of ASD associated with mTORC1 activation.
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12
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Wang X, Gao C, Zhang Y, Hu S, Qiao Y, Zhao Z, Gou L, Song J, Wang Q. Overexpression of mGluR7 in the Prefrontal Cortex Attenuates Autistic Behaviors in Mice. Front Cell Neurosci 2021; 15:689611. [PMID: 34335187 PMCID: PMC8319395 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2021.689611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 06/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is associated with a range of abnormalities pertaining to socialization, communication, repetitive behaviors, and restricted interests. Owing to its complexity, the etiology of ASD remains incompletely understood. The presynaptic G protein-coupled glutamate receptor metabotropic glutamate receptor 7 (mGluR7) is known to be essential for synaptic transmission and is also tightly linked with ASD incidence. Herein, we report that prefrontal cortex (PFC) mGluR7 protein levels were decreased in C57BL/6J mice exposed to valproic acid (VPA) and BTBR T+ Itpr3tf/J mice. The overexpression of mGluR7 in the PFC of these mice using a lentiviral vector was sufficient to reduce the severity of ASD-like behavioral patterns such that animals exhibited decreases in abnormal social interactions and communication, anxiety-like, and stereotyped/repetitive behaviors. Intriguingly, patch-clamp recordings revealed that the overexpression of mGluR7 suppressed neuronal excitability by inhibiting action potential discharge frequencies, together with enhanced action potential threshold and increased rheobase. These data offer a scientific basis for the additional study of mGluR7 as a promising therapeutic target in ASD and related neurodevelopmental disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaona Wang
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical College, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Chao Gao
- Department of Rehabilitation, Children's Hospital Affiliated to Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yaodong Zhang
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical College, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Shunan Hu
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical College, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Yidan Qiao
- Department of Pathology, Children's Hospital Affiliated to Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Zhengqin Zhao
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical College, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Lingshan Gou
- Center for Genetic Medicine, Xuzhou Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Xuzhou, China
| | - Jijun Song
- Henan Infectious Disease Hospital, The Sixth People's Hospital of Zhengzhou, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Qi Wang
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Guizhou Medical University, Guizhou, China
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13
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Su LD, Wang N, Han J, Shen Y. Group 1 Metabotropic Glutamate Receptors in Neurological and Psychiatric Diseases: Mechanisms and Prospective. Neuroscientist 2021; 28:453-468. [PMID: 34088252 PMCID: PMC9449437 DOI: 10.1177/10738584211021018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluRs) are G-protein coupled receptors
that are activated by glutamate in the central nervous system (CNS).
Basically, mGluRs contribute to fine-tuning of synaptic efficacy and
control the accuracy and sharpness of neurotransmission. Among eight
subtypes, mGluR1 and mGluR5 belong to group 1 (Gp1) family, and are
implicated in multiple CNS disorders, such as Alzheimer’s disease,
autism, Parkinson’s disease, and so on. In the present review, we
systematically discussed underlying mechanisms and prospective of Gp1
mGluRs in a group of neurological and psychiatric diseases, including
Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, autism spectrum disorder,
epilepsy, Huntington’s disease, intellectual disability, Down’s
syndrome, Rett syndrome, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder,
addiction, anxiety, nociception, schizophrenia, and depression, in
order to provide more insights into the therapeutic potential of Gp1
mGluRs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Da Su
- Neuroscience Care Unit, Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Na Wang
- School of Medicine, Zhejiang University City College, Hangzhou, China
| | - Junhai Han
- School of Life Science and Technology, the Key Laboratory of Developmental Genes and Human Disease, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Ying Shen
- Department of Physiology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
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14
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Xu J, Marshall JJ, Kraniotis S, Nomura T, Zhu Y, Contractor A. Genetic disruption of Grm5 causes complex alterations in motor activity, anxiety and social behaviors. Behav Brain Res 2021; 411:113378. [PMID: 34029630 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2021.113378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2021] [Revised: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by impaired social interactions and restricted and repetitive behaviors. Although group 1 metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluRs), and in particular mGluR5, have been extensively proposed as potential targets for intervention in autism and other neurodevelopmental disorders, there has not been a comprehensive analysis of the effect of mGluR5 loss on behaviors typically assessed in autism mouse models thought to be correlates of behavioral symptoms of human disorders. Here we present a behavioral characterization of mice with complete or partial loss of mGluR5 (homozygous or heterozygous null mutations in Grm5 gene). We tested several autism related behaviors including social interaction, repetitive grooming, digging and locomotor behaviors. We found that digging and marble burying behaviors were almost completely abolished in mGluR5 ko mice, although self-grooming was not altered. Social interaction was impaired in ko but not in heterozygote (het) mice. In tests of locomotor activity and anxiety related behaviors, mGluR5 ko mice exhibited hyperactivity and reduced anxiety in the open field test but unexpectedly, showed hypoactivity in the elevated zero-maze test. There was no impairment in motor learning in the accelerating rotarod in both ko and het mutant. Together these results provide support for the importance of mGluR5 in motor and social behaviors that are specifically affected in autism disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Xu
- Department of Physiology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, United States.
| | - John J Marshall
- Department of Physiology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, United States
| | - Stephen Kraniotis
- Department of Physiology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, United States
| | - Toshihiro Nomura
- Department of Physiology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, United States
| | - Yongling Zhu
- Department of Physiology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, United States
| | - Anis Contractor
- Department of Physiology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, United States; Department of Neurobiology, Weinberg College of Arts and Sciences, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, 60611, United States.
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15
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Reduced visual cortical plasticity in autism spectrum disorder. Brain Res Bull 2021; 170:11-21. [PMID: 33545310 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2021.01.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2020] [Revised: 01/27/2021] [Accepted: 01/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
There is increasing evidence implicating altered NMDA-receptor function in autism spectrum disorder (ASD). To investigate potential alterations in NMDA-dependent cortical plasticity in ASD, we examined the effect of visual high-frequency stimulation (HFS) on changes in plasticity in the visual cortex, measured by persistent changes in visual evoked potentials (VEPs), in individuals with ASD (n = 16) and neurotypical controls (NT; n = 15). VEPs were elicited by a checkerboard circle (0.83 Hz, 2-min blocks) at baseline and at 2, 4, and 20 min following exposure to HFS (8.87 Hz, 2 min), previously shown to induce LTP-like changes in the visual cortex. Difference waves were created by subtracting VEPs measured at baseline from each Post-HFS measure, and group differences assessed. We found that HFS resulted in reduced short-term potentiation of VEPs in ASD compared to NT participants. Thus, whilst ASD participants showed significant potentiation of the VEP immediately after HFS, this enhancement was not maintained, and only persisted into the second post-HFS assessment block in NT participants. Notably, ASD individuals who self-reported being more sensitive to visual stimuli showed greater shorter-term potentiation following visual HFS. Critically, there were no group differences in degree of neural entrainment to the visual HFS, or in attentional vigilance and task performance. These findings suggests that visual cortical plasticity is atypical in ASD, results consistent with reported altered NMDA receptor function in ASD.
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16
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The eIF4E homolog 4EHP (eIF4E2) regulates hippocampal long-term depression and impacts social behavior. Mol Autism 2020; 11:92. [PMID: 33225984 PMCID: PMC7682028 DOI: 10.1186/s13229-020-00394-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2020] [Accepted: 10/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The regulation of protein synthesis is a critical step in gene expression, and its dysfunction is implicated in autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The eIF4E homologous protein (4EHP, also termed eIF4E2) binds to the mRNA 5′ cap to repress translation. The stability of 4EHP is maintained through physical interaction with GRB10 interacting GYF protein 2 (GIGYF2). Gene-disruptive mutations in GIGYF2 are linked to ASD, but causality is lacking. We hypothesized that GIGYF2 mutations cause ASD by disrupting 4EHP function. Methods Since homozygous deletion of either gene is lethal, we generated a cell-type-specific knockout model where Eif4e2 (the gene encoding 4EHP) is deleted in excitatory neurons of the forebrain (4EHP-eKO). In this model, we investigated ASD-associated synaptic plasticity dysfunction, ASD-like behaviors, and global translational control. We also utilized mice lacking one copy of Gigyf2, Eif4e2 or co-deletion of one copy of each gene to further investigate ASD-like behaviors. Results 4EHP is expressed in excitatory neurons and synaptosomes, and its amount increases during development. 4EHP-eKO mice display exaggerated mGluR-LTD, a phenotype frequently observed in mouse models of ASD. Consistent with synaptic plasticity dysfunction, the mice displayed social behavior impairments without being confounded by deficits in olfaction, anxiety, locomotion, or motor ability. Repetitive behaviors and vocal communication were not affected by loss of 4EHP in excitatory neurons. Heterozygous deletion of either Gigyf2, Eif4e2, or both genes in mice did not result in ASD-like behaviors (i.e. decreases in social behavior or increases in marble burying). Interestingly, exaggerated mGluR-LTD and impaired social behaviors were not attributed to changes in hippocampal global protein synthesis, which suggests that 4EHP and GIGYF2 regulate the translation of specific mRNAs to mediate these effects. Limitations This study did not identify which genes are translationally regulated by 4EHP and GIGYF2. Identification of mistranslated genes in 4EHP-eKO mice might provide a mechanistic explanation for the observed impairment in social behavior and exaggerated LTD. Future experiments employing affinity purification of translating ribosomes and mRNA sequencing in 4EHP-eKO mice will address this relevant issue. Conclusions Together these results demonstrate an important role of 4EHP in regulating hippocampal plasticity and ASD-associated social behaviors, consistent with the link between mutations in GIGYF2 and ASD.
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17
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Hooshmandi M, Wong C, Khoutorsky A. Dysregulation of translational control signaling in autism spectrum disorders. Cell Signal 2020; 75:109746. [PMID: 32858122 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2020.109746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2020] [Revised: 08/17/2020] [Accepted: 08/18/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Deviations from the optimal level of mRNA translation are linked to disorders with high rates of autism. Loss of function mutations in genes encoding translational repressors such as PTEN, TSC1, TSC2, and FMRP are associated with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) in humans and their deletion in animals recapitulates many ASD-like phenotypes. Importantly, the activity of key translational control signaling pathways such as PI3K-mTORC1 and ERK is frequently dysregulated in autistic patients and animal models and their normalization rescues many abnormal phenotypes, suggesting a causal relationship. Mutations in several genes encoding proteins not directly involved in translational control have also been shown to mediate ASD phenotypes via altered signaling upstream of translation. This raises the possibility that the dysregulation of translational control signaling is a converging mechanism not only in familiar but also in sporadic forms of autism. Here, we overview the current knowledge on translational signaling in ASD and highlight how correcting the activity of key pathways upstream of translation reverses distinct ASD-like phenotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehdi Hooshmandi
- Department of Anesthesia, Faculty of Dentistry, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3A 0G1, Canada
| | - Calvin Wong
- Department of Anesthesia, Faculty of Dentistry, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3A 0G1, Canada
| | - Arkady Khoutorsky
- Department of Anesthesia, Faculty of Dentistry, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3A 0G1, Canada.
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18
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Telias M. Pharmacological Treatments for Fragile X Syndrome Based on Synaptic Dysfunction. Curr Pharm Des 2020; 25:4394-4404. [PMID: 31682210 DOI: 10.2174/1381612825666191102165206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2019] [Accepted: 10/31/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fragile X syndrome (FXS) is the most common form of monogenic hereditary cognitive impairment, including intellectual disability, autism, hyperactivity, and epilepsy. METHODS This article reviews the literature pertaining to the role of synaptic dysfunction in FXS. RESULTS In FXS, synaptic dysfunction alters the excitation-inhibition ratio, dysregulating molecular and cellular processes underlying cognition, learning, memory, and social behavior. Decades of research have yielded important hypotheses that could explain, at least in part, the development of these neurological disorders in FXS patients. However, the main goal of translating lab research in animal models to pharmacological treatments in the clinic has been so far largely unsuccessful, leaving FXS a still incurable disease. CONCLUSION In this concise review, we summarize and analyze the main hypotheses proposed to explain synaptic dysregulation in FXS, by reviewing the scientific evidence that led to pharmaceutical clinical trials and their outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Telias
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, United States
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19
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Wiebe S, Nagpal A, Sonenberg N. Dysregulated translational control in brain disorders: from genes to behavior. Curr Opin Genet Dev 2020; 65:34-41. [PMID: 32535350 DOI: 10.1016/j.gde.2020.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2020] [Revised: 04/20/2020] [Accepted: 05/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Control of protein synthesis (mRNA translation) is essential for proper brain development and function. Perturbations to the mechanisms governing mRNA translation have repeatedly been shown to constitute a neurodegenerative, neuropsychiatric, and neurodevelopmental disorder risk factor. Developing effective therapeutics for brain disorders will require a better understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying the control of protein synthesis in brain function. Studies using transgenic animal models have been invaluable towards this end, providing exciting new insights into the genetic basis of brain disorders with hopeful prospects for new and effective treatment options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shane Wiebe
- Department of Biochemistry, McGill University, McIntyre Medical Building, 3655 Promenade Sir William Osler, Montreal, QC H3G 1Y6, Canada; Goodman Cancer Research Centre, 1160 Pine Avenue West, Montreal, QC H3A 1A3, Canada
| | - Anmol Nagpal
- Department of Biochemistry, McGill University, McIntyre Medical Building, 3655 Promenade Sir William Osler, Montreal, QC H3G 1Y6, Canada; Goodman Cancer Research Centre, 1160 Pine Avenue West, Montreal, QC H3A 1A3, Canada; Integrated Program in Neuroscience, McGill University, Montreal Neurological Institute, 3801 University Street, Montreal, QC H3A 2B4, Canada
| | - Nahum Sonenberg
- Department of Biochemistry, McGill University, McIntyre Medical Building, 3655 Promenade Sir William Osler, Montreal, QC H3G 1Y6, Canada; Goodman Cancer Research Centre, 1160 Pine Avenue West, Montreal, QC H3A 1A3, Canada.
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20
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Chronic Activation of Gp1 mGluRs Leads to Distinct Refinement of Neural Network Activity through Non-Canonical p53 and Akt Signaling. eNeuro 2020; 7:ENEURO.0438-19.2020. [PMID: 32161037 PMCID: PMC7218008 DOI: 10.1523/eneuro.0438-19.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2019] [Revised: 01/17/2020] [Accepted: 03/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Group 1 metabotropic glutamate receptors (Gp1 mGluRs), including mGluR1 and mGluR5, are critical regulators for neuronal and synaptic plasticity. Dysregulated Gp1 mGluR signaling is observed with various neurologic disorders, including Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, epilepsy, and autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). It is well established that acute activation of Gp1 mGluRs leads to elevation of neuronal intrinsic excitability and long-term synaptic depression. However, it remains unknown how chronic activation of Gp1 mGluRs can affect neural activity and what molecular mechanisms might be involved. In the current study, we employed a multielectrode array (MEA) recording system to evaluate neural network activity of primary mouse cortical neuron cultures. We demonstrated that chronic activation of Gp1 mGluRs leads to elevation of spontaneous spike frequency while burst activity and cross-electrode synchronization are maintained at the baseline. We further showed that these neural network properties are achieved through proteasomal degradation of Akt that is dependent on the tumor suppressor p53. Genetically knocking down p53 disrupts the elevation of spontaneous spike frequency and alters the burst activity and cross-electrode synchronization following chronic activation of Gp1 mGluRs. Importantly, these deficits can be restored by pharmacologically inhibiting Akt to mimic inactivation of Akt mediated by p53. Together, our findings reveal the effects of chronic activation of Gp1 mGluRs on neural network activity and identify a unique signaling pathway involving p53 and Akt for these effects. Our data can provide insights into constitutively active Gp1 mGluR signaling observed in many neurologic and psychiatric disorders.
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21
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Crespi BJ. Comparative psychopharmacology of autism and psychotic-affective disorders suggests new targets for treatment. Evol Med Public Health 2019; 2019:149-168. [PMID: 31548888 PMCID: PMC6748779 DOI: 10.1093/emph/eoz022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2018] [Accepted: 08/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The first treatments showing effectiveness for some psychiatric disorders, such as lithium for bipolar disorder and chlorpromazine for schizophrenia, were discovered by accident. Currently, psychiatric drug design is seen as a scientific enterprise, limited though it remains by the complexity of brain development and function. Relatively few novel and effective drugs have, however, been developed for many years. The purpose of this article is to demonstrate how evolutionary biology can provide a useful framework for psychiatric drug development. The framework is based on a diametrical nature of autism, compared with psychotic-affective disorders (mainly schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and depression). This paradigm follows from two inferences: (i) risks and phenotypes of human psychiatric disorders derive from phenotypes that have evolved along the human lineage and (ii) biological variation is bidirectional (e.g. higher vs lower, faster vs slower, etc.), such that dysregulation of psychological traits varies in two opposite ways. In this context, the author review the evidence salient to the hypothesis that autism and psychotic-affective disorders represent diametrical disorders in terms of current, proposed and potential psychopharmacological treatments. Studies of brain-derived neurotrophic factor, the PI3K pathway, the NMDA receptor, kynurenic acid metabolism, agmatine metabolism, levels of the endocannabinoid anandamide, antidepressants, anticonvulsants, antipsychotics, and other treatments, demonstrate evidence of diametric effects in autism spectrum disorders and phenotypes compared with psychotic-affective disorders and phenotypes. These findings yield insights into treatment mechanisms and the development of new pharmacological therapies, as well as providing an explanation for the longstanding puzzle of antagonism between epilepsy and psychosis. Lay Summary: Consideration of autism and schizophrenia as caused by opposite alterations to brain development and function leads to novel suggestions for pharmacological treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bernard J Crespi
- Department of Biological Sciences, Simon Fraser University, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, BC V5A 1S6, Canada
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22
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Kroon T, Dawitz J, Kramvis I, Anink J, Obermayer J, Verhoog MB, Wilbers R, Goriounova NA, Idema S, Baayen JC, Aronica E, Mansvelder HD, Meredith RM. Group I mGluR-Mediated Activation of Martinotti Cells Inhibits Local Cortical Circuitry in Human Cortex. Front Cell Neurosci 2019; 13:315. [PMID: 31354435 PMCID: PMC6637283 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2019.00315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2019] [Accepted: 06/27/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Group I metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluRs) mediate a range of signaling and plasticity processes in the brain and are of growing importance as potential therapeutic targets in clinical trials for neuropsychiatric and neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs). Fundamental knowledge regarding the functional effects of mGluRs upon pyramidal neurons and interneurons is derived largely from rodent brain, and their effects upon human neurons are predominantly untested. We therefore addressed how group I mGluRs affect microcircuits in human neocortex. We show that activation of group I mGluRs elicits action potential firing in Martinotti cells, which leads to increased synaptic inhibition onto neighboring neurons. Some other interneurons, including fast-spiking interneurons, are depolarized but do not fire action potentials in response to group I mGluR activation. Furthermore, we confirm the existence of group I mGluR-mediated depression of excitatory synapses in human pyramidal neurons. We propose that the strong increase in inhibition and depression of excitatory synapses onto layer 2/3 pyramidal neurons upon group I mGluR activation likely results in a shift in the balance between excitation and inhibition in the human cortical network.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tim Kroon
- Department of Integrative Neurophysiology, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, VU University Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Julia Dawitz
- Department of Integrative Neurophysiology, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, VU University Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Ioannis Kramvis
- Department of Integrative Neurophysiology, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, VU University Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Jasper Anink
- Department of Neuropathology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Stichting Epilepsie Instellingen Nederland, Heemstede, Netherlands
| | - Joshua Obermayer
- Department of Integrative Neurophysiology, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, VU University Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Matthijs B. Verhoog
- Department of Integrative Neurophysiology, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, VU University Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - René Wilbers
- Department of Integrative Neurophysiology, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, VU University Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Natalia A. Goriounova
- Department of Integrative Neurophysiology, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, VU University Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Sander Idema
- Department of Neurosurgery, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Johannes C. Baayen
- Department of Neurosurgery, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Eleonora Aronica
- Department of Neuropathology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Stichting Epilepsie Instellingen Nederland, Heemstede, Netherlands
| | - Huibert D. Mansvelder
- Department of Integrative Neurophysiology, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, VU University Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Rhiannon M. Meredith
- Department of Integrative Neurophysiology, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, VU University Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
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23
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Lee K, Vyas Y, Garner CC, Montgomery JM. Autism‐associated
Shank3
mutations alter mGluR expression and mGluR‐dependent but not NMDA receptor‐dependent long‐term depression. Synapse 2019; 73:e22097. [DOI: 10.1002/syn.22097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2018] [Revised: 02/20/2019] [Accepted: 03/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Lee
- Department of Physiology, Centre for Brain Research University of Auckland Auckland New Zealand
| | - Yukti Vyas
- Department of Physiology, Centre for Brain Research University of Auckland Auckland New Zealand
| | - Craig C. Garner
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Disorders Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin Berlin Germany
| | - Johanna M. Montgomery
- Department of Physiology, Centre for Brain Research University of Auckland Auckland New Zealand
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24
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Zoicas I, Kornhuber J. The Role of Metabotropic Glutamate Receptors in Social Behavior in Rodents. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20061412. [PMID: 30897826 PMCID: PMC6470515 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20061412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2019] [Revised: 03/15/2019] [Accepted: 03/20/2019] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The appropriate display of social behavior is critical for the well-being and survival of an individual. In many psychiatric disorders, including social anxiety disorder, autism spectrum disorders, depression and schizophrenia social behavior is severely impaired. Selective targeting of metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluRs) has emerged as a novel treatment strategy for these disorders. In this review, we describe some of the behavioral paradigms used to assess different types of social behavior, such as social interaction, social memory, aggressive behavior and sexual behavior. We then focus on the effects of pharmacological modulation of mGluR1-8 on these types of social behavior. Indeed, accumulating evidence indicates beneficial effects of selective ligands of specific mGluRs in ameliorating innate or pharmacologically-induced deficits in social interaction and social memory as well as in reducing aggression in rodents. We emphasize the importance of future studies investigating the role of selective mGluR ligands on different types of social behavior to provide a better understanding of the neural mechanisms involved which, in turn, might promote the development of selective mGluR-targeted tools for the improved treatment of psychiatric disorders associated with social deficits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iulia Zoicas
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen 91054, Germany.
| | - Johannes Kornhuber
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen 91054, Germany.
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25
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Richter M, Murtaza N, Scharrenberg R, White SH, Johanns O, Walker S, Yuen RKC, Schwanke B, Bedürftig B, Henis M, Scharf S, Kraus V, Dörk R, Hellmann J, Lindenmaier Z, Ellegood J, Hartung H, Kwan V, Sedlacik J, Fiehler J, Schweizer M, Lerch JP, Hanganu-Opatz IL, Morellini F, Scherer SW, Singh KK, Calderon de Anda F. Altered TAOK2 activity causes autism-related neurodevelopmental and cognitive abnormalities through RhoA signaling. Mol Psychiatry 2019; 24:1329-1350. [PMID: 29467497 PMCID: PMC6756231 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-018-0025-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2017] [Revised: 12/01/2017] [Accepted: 12/06/2017] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Atypical brain connectivity is a major contributor to the pathophysiology of neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) including autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). TAOK2 is one of several genes in the 16p11.2 microdeletion region, but whether it contributes to NDDs is unknown. We performed behavioral analysis on Taok2 heterozygous (Het) and knockout (KO) mice and found gene dosage-dependent impairments in cognition, anxiety, and social interaction. Taok2 Het and KO mice also have dosage-dependent abnormalities in brain size and neural connectivity in multiple regions, deficits in cortical layering, dendrite and synapse formation, and reduced excitatory neurotransmission. Whole-genome and -exome sequencing of ASD families identified three de novo mutations in TAOK2 and functional analysis in mice and human cells revealed that all the mutations impair protein stability, but they differentially impact kinase activity, dendrite growth, and spine/synapse development. Mechanistically, loss of Taok2 activity causes a reduction in RhoA activation, and pharmacological enhancement of RhoA activity rescues synaptic phenotypes. Together, these data provide evidence that TAOK2 is a neurodevelopmental disorder risk gene and identify RhoA signaling as a mediator of TAOK2-dependent synaptic development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melanie Richter
- 0000 0001 2180 3484grid.13648.38Center for Molecular Neurobiology Hamburg (ZMNH), Research Group Neuronal Development, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Nadeem Murtaza
- 0000 0004 1936 8227grid.25073.33Stem Cell and Cancer Research Institute, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario Canada ,0000 0004 1936 8227grid.25073.33Department of Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences, Michael G. DeGroote School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario Canada
| | - Robin Scharrenberg
- 0000 0001 2180 3484grid.13648.38Center for Molecular Neurobiology Hamburg (ZMNH), Research Group Neuronal Development, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Sean H. White
- 0000 0004 1936 8227grid.25073.33Stem Cell and Cancer Research Institute, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario Canada ,0000 0004 1936 8227grid.25073.33Department of Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences, Michael G. DeGroote School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario Canada
| | - Ole Johanns
- 0000 0001 2180 3484grid.13648.38Center for Molecular Neurobiology Hamburg (ZMNH), Research Group Neuronal Development, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Susan Walker
- 0000 0004 0473 9646grid.42327.30The Centre for Applied Genomics and Program in Genetics and Genome Biology, Peter Gilgan Centre for Research and Learning, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario Canada ,0000 0001 2157 2938grid.17063.33Department of Molecular Genetics and McLaughlin Centre, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario Canada
| | - Ryan K. C. Yuen
- 0000 0004 0473 9646grid.42327.30The Centre for Applied Genomics and Program in Genetics and Genome Biology, Peter Gilgan Centre for Research and Learning, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario Canada ,0000 0001 2157 2938grid.17063.33Department of Molecular Genetics and McLaughlin Centre, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario Canada
| | - Birgit Schwanke
- 0000 0001 2180 3484grid.13648.38Center for Molecular Neurobiology Hamburg (ZMNH), Research Group Neuronal Development, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Bianca Bedürftig
- 0000 0001 2180 3484grid.13648.38Center for Molecular Neurobiology Hamburg (ZMNH), Research Group Neuronal Development, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Melad Henis
- 0000 0001 2180 3484grid.13648.38Center for Molecular Neurobiology Hamburg (ZMNH), Research Group Neuronal Development, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany ,0000 0000 8632 679Xgrid.252487.eDepartment of Anatomy and Histology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Sarah Scharf
- 0000 0001 2180 3484grid.13648.38Center for Molecular Neurobiology Hamburg (ZMNH), Research Group Behavioral Biology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Vanessa Kraus
- 0000 0001 2180 3484grid.13648.38Center for Molecular Neurobiology Hamburg (ZMNH), Research Group Behavioral Biology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Ronja Dörk
- 0000 0001 2180 3484grid.13648.38Center for Molecular Neurobiology Hamburg (ZMNH), Research Group Behavioral Biology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Jakob Hellmann
- 0000 0001 2180 3484grid.13648.38Center for Molecular Neurobiology Hamburg (ZMNH), Research Group Behavioral Biology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Zsuzsa Lindenmaier
- 0000 0004 0473 9646grid.42327.30Mouse Imaging Center, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario Canada ,0000 0001 2157 2938grid.17063.33Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario Canada
| | - Jacob Ellegood
- 0000 0004 0473 9646grid.42327.30Mouse Imaging Center, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario Canada
| | - Henrike Hartung
- 0000 0001 2180 3484grid.13648.38Developmental Neurophysiology, Institute of Neuroanatomy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany ,0000 0004 0410 2071grid.7737.4Present Address: Laboratory of Neurobiology, Department of Biosciences, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Vickie Kwan
- 0000 0004 1936 8227grid.25073.33Stem Cell and Cancer Research Institute, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario Canada ,0000 0004 1936 8227grid.25073.33Department of Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences, Michael G. DeGroote School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario Canada
| | - Jan Sedlacik
- 0000 0001 2180 3484grid.13648.38Department of Neuroradiology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Jens Fiehler
- 0000 0001 2180 3484grid.13648.38Department of Neuroradiology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Michaela Schweizer
- 0000 0001 2180 3484grid.13648.38Center for Molecular Neurobiology Hamburg (ZMNH), Core Facility Morphology and Electronmicroscopy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Jason P. Lerch
- 0000 0004 0473 9646grid.42327.30Mouse Imaging Center, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario Canada ,0000 0001 2157 2938grid.17063.33Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario Canada
| | - Ileana L. Hanganu-Opatz
- 0000 0001 2180 3484grid.13648.38Developmental Neurophysiology, Institute of Neuroanatomy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Fabio Morellini
- 0000 0001 2180 3484grid.13648.38Center for Molecular Neurobiology Hamburg (ZMNH), Research Group Behavioral Biology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Stephen W. Scherer
- 0000 0004 0473 9646grid.42327.30The Centre for Applied Genomics and Program in Genetics and Genome Biology, Peter Gilgan Centre for Research and Learning, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario Canada ,0000 0001 2157 2938grid.17063.33Department of Molecular Genetics and McLaughlin Centre, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario Canada
| | - Karun K. Singh
- 0000 0004 1936 8227grid.25073.33Stem Cell and Cancer Research Institute, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario Canada ,0000 0004 1936 8227grid.25073.33Department of Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences, Michael G. DeGroote School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario Canada
| | - Froylan Calderon de Anda
- Center for Molecular Neurobiology Hamburg (ZMNH), Research Group Neuronal Development, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany.
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26
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Amorim IS, Lach G, Gkogkas CG. The Role of the Eukaryotic Translation Initiation Factor 4E (eIF4E) in Neuropsychiatric Disorders. Front Genet 2018; 9:561. [PMID: 30532767 PMCID: PMC6265315 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2018.00561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2018] [Accepted: 11/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Protein synthesis in eukaryotic cells is a complex, multi-step and tightly regulated process. Translation initiation, the rate limiting step in protein synthesis, is dependent on the activity of eukaryotic translation Initiation Factor 4E (eIF4E). eIF4E is the cap-binding protein which, in synergy with proteins such as the helicase eIF4A and the scaffolding protein eIF4G, binds to mRNA, allowing the recruitment of ribosomes and translation initiation. The function of eIF4E is tightly regulated in cells under normal physiological conditions and can be controlled by post-translational modifications, such as phosphorylation, and by the binding of inhibitory proteins, including eIF4E binding proteins (4E-BPs) and CYFIP1. Recent studies have highlighted the importance of eIF4E in normal or aberrant function of the nervous system. In this mini-review, we will highlight the role of eIF4E function and regulation in the pathophysiology of neurodevelopmental and neuropsychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inês S Amorim
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Gilliard Lach
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Christos G Gkogkas
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom.,The Patrick Wild Centre, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
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27
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Moy SS, Teng BL, Nikolova VD, Riddick NV, Simpson CD, Van Deusen A, Janzen WP, Sassano MF, Pedersen CA, Jarstfer MB. Prosocial effects of an oxytocin metabolite, but not synthetic oxytocin receptor agonists, in a mouse model of autism. Neuropharmacology 2018; 144:301-311. [PMID: 30399367 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2018.10.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2018] [Revised: 10/22/2018] [Accepted: 10/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Currently, there are no established pharmaceutical strategies that effectively treat social deficits in autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Oxytocin, a neurohormone that plays a role in multiple types of social behaviors, has been proposed as a possible therapeutic against social impairment and other symptoms in ASD. However, from the standpoint of pharmacotherapy, oxytocin has several liabilities as a standard clinical treatment, including rapid metabolism, low brain penetrance, and activity at the vasopressin (antidiuretic hormone) receptors. The present studies describe findings from a preclinical screening program to evaluate oxytocin receptor (OXTR) agonists and oxytocin metabolites for potential clinical use as more optimal treatments. We first investigated two synthetic oxytocin analogs, TC-OT-39 and carbetocin, using in vitro cell-based assays for pharmacological characterization and behavioral tests in the BALB/cByJ mouse model of ASD-like social deficits. Although both TC-OT-39 and carbetocin selectively activate the OXTR, neither synthetic agonist had prosocial efficacy in the BALB/cByJ model. We next evaluated two oxytocin metabolites: OT(4-9) and OT(5-9). While OT(5-9) failed to affect social deficits, the metabolite OT(4-9) led to significant social preference in the BALB/cByJ model, in a dose-dependent manner. The increased sociability was observed at both 24 h and 12 days following the end of a subchronic regimen with OT(4-9) (2.0 mg/kg). Overall, these results suggest that the prosocial effects of oxytocin could be mediated by downstream activity of oxytocin metabolites, raising the possibility of new pathways to target for drug discovery relevant to ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheryl S Moy
- Carolina Institute for Developmental Disabilities, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA; Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA.
| | - Brian L Teng
- Carolina Institute for Developmental Disabilities, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA; Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Viktoriya D Nikolova
- Carolina Institute for Developmental Disabilities, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA; Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Natallia V Riddick
- Carolina Institute for Developmental Disabilities, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA; Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Catherine D Simpson
- Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Amy Van Deusen
- Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA; Center for Integrative Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - William P Janzen
- Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA; Center for Integrative Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Maria F Sassano
- Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA; Department of Pharmacology, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Cort A Pedersen
- Carolina Institute for Developmental Disabilities, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA; Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Michael B Jarstfer
- Carolina Institute for Developmental Disabilities, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA; Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA.
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28
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Dahlhaus R. Of Men and Mice: Modeling the Fragile X Syndrome. Front Mol Neurosci 2018; 11:41. [PMID: 29599705 PMCID: PMC5862809 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2018.00041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2017] [Accepted: 01/31/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The Fragile X Syndrome (FXS) is one of the most common forms of inherited intellectual disability in all human societies. Caused by the transcriptional silencing of a single gene, the fragile x mental retardation gene FMR1, FXS is characterized by a variety of symptoms, which range from mental disabilities to autism and epilepsy. More than 20 years ago, a first animal model was described, the Fmr1 knock-out mouse. Several other models have been developed since then, including conditional knock-out mice, knock-out rats, a zebrafish and a drosophila model. Using these model systems, various targets for potential pharmaceutical treatments have been identified and many treatments have been shown to be efficient in preclinical studies. However, all attempts to turn these findings into a therapy for patients have failed thus far. In this review, I will discuss underlying difficulties and address potential alternatives for our future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Regina Dahlhaus
- Institute for Biochemistry, Emil-Fischer Centre, University of Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
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29
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Liu DC, Seimetz J, Lee KY, Kalsotra A, Chung HJ, Lu H, Tsai NP. Mdm2 mediates FMRP- and Gp1 mGluR-dependent protein translation and neural network activity. Hum Mol Genet 2018; 26:3895-3908. [PMID: 29016848 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddx276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2016] [Accepted: 07/11/2017] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Activating Group 1 (Gp1) metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluRs), including mGluR1 and mGluR5, elicits translation-dependent neural plasticity mechanisms that are crucial to animal behavior and circuit development. Dysregulated Gp1 mGluR signaling has been observed in numerous neurological and psychiatric disorders. However, the molecular pathways underlying Gp1 mGluR-dependent plasticity mechanisms are complex and have been elusive. In this study, we identified a novel mechanism through which Gp1 mGluR mediates protein translation and neural plasticity. Using a multi-electrode array (MEA) recording system, we showed that activating Gp1 mGluR elevates neural network activity, as demonstrated by increased spontaneous spike frequency and burst activity. Importantly, we validated that elevating neural network activity requires protein translation and is dependent on fragile X mental retardation protein (FMRP), the protein that is deficient in the most common inherited form of mental retardation and autism, fragile X syndrome (FXS). In an effort to determine the mechanism by which FMRP mediates protein translation and neural network activity, we demonstrated that a ubiquitin E3 ligase, murine double minute-2 (Mdm2), is required for Gp1 mGluR-induced translation and neural network activity. Our data showed that Mdm2 acts as a translation suppressor, and FMRP is required for its ubiquitination and down-regulation upon Gp1 mGluR activation. These data revealed a novel mechanism by which Gp1 mGluR and FMRP mediate protein translation and neural network activity, potentially through de-repressing Mdm2. Our results also introduce an alternative way for understanding altered protein translation and brain circuit excitability associated with Gp1 mGluR in neurological diseases such as FXS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dai-Chi Liu
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, School of Molecular and Cellular Biology.,Neuroscience Program
| | - Joseph Seimetz
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | - Kwan Young Lee
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, School of Molecular and Cellular Biology
| | - Auinash Kalsotra
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA.,Carl R.Woese Institute of Genomic Biology, University of Illinois, Champaign, IL 61801, USA
| | - Hee Jung Chung
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, School of Molecular and Cellular Biology.,Neuroscience Program.,Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | - Hua Lu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology.,Tulane Cancer Center, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
| | - Nien-Pei Tsai
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, School of Molecular and Cellular Biology.,Neuroscience Program.,Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
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30
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Ledonne A, Mango D, Latagliata EC, Chiacchierini G, Nobili A, Nisticò R, D'Amelio M, Puglisi-Allegra S, Mercuri NB. Neuregulin 1/ErbB signalling modulates hippocampal mGluRI-dependent LTD and object recognition memory. Pharmacol Res 2018; 130:12-24. [PMID: 29427771 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2018.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2017] [Revised: 01/19/2018] [Accepted: 02/02/2018] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
The neurotrophic factors neuregulins (NRGs) and their receptors, ErbB tyrosine kinases, regulate neurotransmission, synaptic plasticity and cognitive functions and their alterations have been associated to different neuropsychiatric disorders. Group 1 metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluRI)-dependent mechanisms are also altered in animal models of neuropsychiatric diseases, especially mGluRI-induced glutamatergic long-term depression (mGluRI-LTD), a form of synaptic plasticity critically involved in learning and memory. Despite this evidence, a potential link between NRGs/ErbB signalling and mGluRI-LTD has never been considered. Here, we aimed to test the hypothesis that NRGs/ErbB signalling regulates mGluRI functions in the hippocampus, thus controlling CA1 pyramidal neurons excitability and synaptic plasticity as well as mGluRI-dependent behaviors. We investigated the functional interaction between NRG1/ErbB signalling and mGluRI in hippocampal CA1 pyramidal neurons, by analyzing the effect of a pharmacological modulation of NRG1/ErbB signalling on the excitation of pyramidal neurons and on the LTD at CA3-CA1 synapses induced by an mGluRI agonist. Furthermore, we verified the involvement of ErbB signalling in mGluRI-dependent learning processes, by evaluating the consequence of an intrahippocampal in vivo injection of a pan-ErbB inhibitor in the object recognition test in mice, a learning task dependent on hippocampal mGluRI. We found that NRG1 potentiates mGluRI-dependent functions on pyramidal neurons excitability and synaptic plasticity at CA3-CA1 synapses. Further, endogenous ErbB signalling per se regulates, through mGluRI, neuronal excitability and LTD in CA1 pyramidal neurons, since ErbB inhibition reduces mGluRI-induced neuronal excitation and mGluRI-LTD. In vivo intrahippocampal injection of the ErbB inhibitor, PD158780, impairs mGluRI-LTD at CA3-CA1 synapses and affects the exploratory behavior in the object recognition test. Thus, our results identify a key role for NRG1/ErbB signalling in the regulation of hippocampal mGluRI-dependent synaptic and cognitive functions, whose alteration might contribute to the pathogenesis of different brain diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ada Ledonne
- Department of Experimental Neuroscience, Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy.
| | - Dalila Mango
- Pharmacology of Synaptic Disease Lab, European Brain Research Institute, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Giulia Chiacchierini
- Department of Psychology and "Daniel Bovet" Center, University "La Sapienza", Rome, Italy
| | - Annalisa Nobili
- Department of Experimental Neuroscience, Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy; Department of Medicine, University Campus-Biomedico, Rome, Italy
| | - Robert Nisticò
- Pharmacology of Synaptic Disease Lab, European Brain Research Institute, Rome, Italy; Department of Biology, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Rome, Italy
| | - Marcello D'Amelio
- Department of Experimental Neuroscience, Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy; Department of Medicine, University Campus-Biomedico, Rome, Italy
| | - Stefano Puglisi-Allegra
- Department of Experimental Neuroscience, Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy; Department of Psychology and "Daniel Bovet" Center, University "La Sapienza", Rome, Italy
| | - Nicola Biagio Mercuri
- Department of Experimental Neuroscience, Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy; Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Rome, Italy
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31
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Lum JS, Pan B, Deng C, Huang XF, Ooi L, Newell KA. Effects of short- and long-term aripiprazole treatment on Group I mGluRs in the nucleus accumbens: Comparison with haloperidol. Psychiatry Res 2018; 260:152-157. [PMID: 29195167 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2017.11.048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2017] [Revised: 11/10/2017] [Accepted: 11/17/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
The D2 receptor partial agonist, aripiprazole, has shown increased therapeutic efficacy for schizophrenia, autism and Tourette's syndrome compared to traditional antipsychotics such as the D2 receptor antagonist, haloperidol. Recent evidence suggests this superior profile may be associated with downstream effects on glutamatergic synapses. Group 1 metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluRs) and their endogenous modulators, Norbin and Homer1, are regulated by D2 receptor activity, particularly within the nucleus accumbens (NAc), a target region of aripiprazole and haloperidol. This study sought to evaluate the effects of aripiprazole on Group 1 mGluRs, Norbin and Homer1 in the NAc, in comparison to haloperidol. Sprague-Dawley rats were orally administered daily doses of aripiprazole (2.25mg/kg), haloperidol (0.3mg/kg) or vehicle for 1 or 10-weeks. Immunoblot analyses revealed Group 1 mGluR protein levels were not altered following 1-week and 10-week aripiprazole or haloperidol treatment, compared to vehicle treated rodents. However, 1-week aripiprazole and haloperidol treatment significantly elevated Homer1a and Norbin protein expression, respectively. After 10 weeks of treatment, aripiprazole, but not haloperidol, significantly increased Norbin expression. These findings indicate the antipsychotics, aripiprazole and haloperidol, exert differential temporal effects on Norbin and Homer1 expression that may have consequences on synaptic glutamatergic transmission underlying their therapeutic profile.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeremy S Lum
- Faculty of Science, Medicine and Health, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales 2522, Australia; Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Wollongong, New South Wales 2522, Australia; Schizophrenia Research Institute, 405 Liverpool Street, Darlinghurst, New South Wales 2010, Australia; Centre for Translational Neuroscience, School of Medicine, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia
| | - Bo Pan
- Faculty of Science, Medicine and Health, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales 2522, Australia; Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Wollongong, New South Wales 2522, Australia; Centre for Translational Neuroscience, School of Medicine, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia; Antipsychotic Research Laboratory, Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia; Department of Pharmacy, Medical Academy, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225001, Jiangsu, China
| | - Chao Deng
- Faculty of Science, Medicine and Health, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales 2522, Australia; Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Wollongong, New South Wales 2522, Australia; Centre for Translational Neuroscience, School of Medicine, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia; Antipsychotic Research Laboratory, Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia
| | - Xu-Feng Huang
- Faculty of Science, Medicine and Health, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales 2522, Australia; Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Wollongong, New South Wales 2522, Australia; Centre for Translational Neuroscience, School of Medicine, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia
| | - Lezanne Ooi
- Faculty of Science, Medicine and Health, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales 2522, Australia; Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Wollongong, New South Wales 2522, Australia
| | - Kelly A Newell
- Faculty of Science, Medicine and Health, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales 2522, Australia; Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, Wollongong, New South Wales 2522, Australia; Centre for Translational Neuroscience, School of Medicine, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia.
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32
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Sanathara NM, Garau C, Alachkar A, Wang L, Wang Z, Nishimori K, Xu X, Civelli O. Melanin concentrating hormone modulates oxytocin-mediated marble burying. Neuropharmacology 2018; 128:22-32. [PMID: 28888943 PMCID: PMC5830107 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2017.09.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2017] [Revised: 08/15/2017] [Accepted: 09/05/2017] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Repetitive and perseverative behaviors are common features of a number of neuropsychiatric diseases such as Angelman's syndrome, Tourette's syndrome, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and autism spectrum disorders. The oxytocin system has been linked to the regulation of repetitive behavior in both animal models and humans, but many of its downstream targets have still to be found. We report that the melanin-concentrating hormone (MCH) system is a target of the oxytocin system in regulating one repetitive behavior, marble burying. First we report that nearly 60% of MCH neurons express oxytocin receptors, and demonstrate using rabies mediated tract tracing that MCH neurons receive direct presynaptic input from oxytocin neurons. Then we show that MCH receptor knockout (MCHR1KO) mice and MCH ablated animals display increased marble burying response while central MCH infusion decreases it. Finally, we demonstrate the downstream role of the MCH system on oxytocin mediated marble burying by showing that central infusions of MCH and oxytocin alone or together reduce it while antagonizing the MCH system blocks oxytocin-mediated reduction of this behavior. Our findings reveal a novel role for the MCH system as a mediator of the role of oxytocin in regulating marble-burying behavior in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nayna M Sanathara
- Department of Pharmacology, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - Celia Garau
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - Amal Alachkar
- Department of Pharmacology, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - Lien Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - Zhiwei Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - Katsuhiko Nishimori
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Tohoku University, 1-1 Tsutsumidori-Amamiyamachi, Aoba-ku, Sendai, Miyagi, 981-8555, Japan
| | - Xiangmin Xu
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - Olivier Civelli
- Department of Pharmacology, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA; Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA; Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA.
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33
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Stoppel LJ, Auerbach BD, Senter RK, Preza AR, Lefkowitz RJ, Bear MF. β-Arrestin2 Couples Metabotropic Glutamate Receptor 5 to Neuronal Protein Synthesis and Is a Potential Target to Treat Fragile X. Cell Rep 2017; 18:2807-2814. [PMID: 28329674 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2017.02.075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2016] [Revised: 01/31/2017] [Accepted: 02/24/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Synaptic protein synthesis is essential for modification of the brain by experience and is aberrant in several genetically defined disorders, notably fragile X (FX), a heritable cause of autism and intellectual disability. Neural activity directs local protein synthesis via activation of metabotropic glutamate receptor 5 (mGlu5), yet how mGlu5 couples to the intracellular signaling pathways that regulate mRNA translation is poorly understood. Here, we provide evidence that β-arrestin2 mediates mGlu5-stimulated protein synthesis in the hippocampus and show that genetic reduction of β-arrestin2 corrects aberrant synaptic plasticity and cognition in the Fmr1-/y mouse model of FX. Importantly, reducing β-arrestin2 does not induce psychotomimetic activity associated with full mGlu5 inhibitors and does not affect Gq signaling. Thus, in addition to identifying a key requirement for mGlu5-stimulated protein synthesis, these data suggest that β-arrestin2-biased negative modulators of mGlu5 offer significant advantages over first-generation inhibitors for the treatment of FX and related disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura J Stoppel
- The Picower Institute for Learning and Memory, Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Benjamin D Auerbach
- The Center for Hearing and Deafness, Department of Communicative Disorders and Sciences, The State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14214, USA
| | - Rebecca K Senter
- The Picower Institute for Learning and Memory, Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Anthony R Preza
- The Picower Institute for Learning and Memory, Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Robert J Lefkowitz
- Departments of Medicine and Biochemistry, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Mark F Bear
- The Picower Institute for Learning and Memory, Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA.
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34
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Goniotaki D, Lakkaraju AKK, Shrivastava AN, Bakirci P, Sorce S, Senatore A, Marpakwar R, Hornemann S, Gasparini F, Triller A, Aguzzi A. Inhibition of group-I metabotropic glutamate receptors protects against prion toxicity. PLoS Pathog 2017; 13:e1006733. [PMID: 29176838 PMCID: PMC5720820 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1006733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2017] [Revised: 12/07/2017] [Accepted: 11/04/2017] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Prion infections cause inexorable, progressive neurological dysfunction and neurodegeneration. Expression of the cellular prion protein PrPC is required for toxicity, suggesting the existence of deleterious PrPC-dependent signaling cascades. Because group-I metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluR1 and mGluR5) can form complexes with the cellular prion protein (PrPC), we investigated the impact of mGluR1 and mGluR5 inhibition on prion toxicity ex vivo and in vivo. We found that pharmacological inhibition of mGluR1 and mGluR5 antagonized dose-dependently the neurotoxicity triggered by prion infection and by prion-mimetic anti-PrPC antibodies in organotypic brain slices. Prion-mimetic antibodies increased mGluR5 clustering around dendritic spines, mimicking the toxicity of Aβ oligomers. Oral treatment with the mGluR5 inhibitor, MPEP, delayed the onset of motor deficits and moderately prolonged survival of prion-infected mice. Although group-I mGluR inhibition was not curative, these results suggest that it may alleviate the neurological dysfunctions induced by prion diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Amulya N. Shrivastava
- École Normale Supérieure, Institut de Biologie de l'ENS (IBENS) INSERM CNRS PSL Research University, Paris, France
- Paris-Saclay Institute of Neuroscience, CNRS, Gif-sur-Yvette, France
| | - Pamela Bakirci
- Institute of Neuropathology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Silvia Sorce
- Institute of Neuropathology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Assunta Senatore
- Institute of Neuropathology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | | | - Simone Hornemann
- Institute of Neuropathology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | | | - Antoine Triller
- École Normale Supérieure, Institut de Biologie de l'ENS (IBENS) INSERM CNRS PSL Research University, Paris, France
| | - Adriano Aguzzi
- Institute of Neuropathology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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35
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Iacoangeli A, Dosunmu A, Eom T, Stefanov DG, Tiedge H. Regulatory BC1 RNA in cognitive control. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2017; 24:267-277. [PMID: 28620074 PMCID: PMC5473108 DOI: 10.1101/lm.045427.117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2017] [Accepted: 04/12/2017] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Dendritic regulatory BC1 RNA is a non-protein-coding (npc) RNA that operates in the translational control of gene expression. The absence of BC1 RNA in BC1 knockout (KO) animals causes translational dysregulation that entails neuronal phenotypic alterations including prolonged epileptiform discharges, audiogenic seizure activity in vivo, and excessive cortical oscillations in the γ frequency band. Here we asked whether BC1 RNA control is also required for higher brain functions such as learning, memory, or cognition. To address this question, we used odor/object attentional set shifting tasks in which prefrontal cortical performance was assessed in a series of discrimination and conflict learning sessions. Results obtained in these behavioral trials indicate that BC1 KO animals were significantly impaired in their cognitive flexibility. When faced with conflicting information sources, BC1 KO animals committed regressive errors as they were compromised in their ability to disengage from recently acquired memories even though recall of such memories was in conflict with new situational context. The observed cognitive deficits are reminiscent of those previously described in subtypes of human autism spectrum disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Iacoangeli
- The Robert F. Furchgott Center for Neural and Behavioral Science, State University of New York Downstate Medical Center, Brooklyn, New York 11203, USA.,Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, State University of New York Downstate Medical Center, Brooklyn, New York 11203, USA
| | - Aderemi Dosunmu
- The Robert F. Furchgott Center for Neural and Behavioral Science, State University of New York Downstate Medical Center, Brooklyn, New York 11203, USA.,Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, State University of New York Downstate Medical Center, Brooklyn, New York 11203, USA
| | - Taesun Eom
- The Robert F. Furchgott Center for Neural and Behavioral Science, State University of New York Downstate Medical Center, Brooklyn, New York 11203, USA.,Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, State University of New York Downstate Medical Center, Brooklyn, New York 11203, USA
| | - Dimitre G Stefanov
- Statistical Design and Analysis, Research Division, State University of New York Downstate Medical Center, Brooklyn, New York 11203, USA
| | - Henri Tiedge
- The Robert F. Furchgott Center for Neural and Behavioral Science, State University of New York Downstate Medical Center, Brooklyn, New York 11203, USA .,Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, State University of New York Downstate Medical Center, Brooklyn, New York 11203, USA.,Department of Neurology, State University of New York Downstate Medical Center, Brooklyn, New York 11203, USA
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36
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Genetic and Pharmacological Reversibility of Phenotypes in Mouse Models of Autism Spectrum Disorder. ADVANCES IN ANATOMY, EMBRYOLOGY, AND CELL BIOLOGY 2017; 224:189-211. [PMID: 28551757 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-52498-6_10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
As autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is largely regarded as a neurodevelopmental condition, long-time consensus was that its hallmark features are irreversible. However, several studies from recent years using defined mouse models of ASD have provided clear evidence that in mice neurobiological and behavioural alterations can be ameliorated or even reversed by genetic restoration or pharmacological treatment either before or after symptom onset. Here, we review findings on genetic and pharmacological reversibility of phenotypes in mouse models of ASD. Our review should give a comprehensive overview on both aspects and encourage future studies to better understand the underlying molecular mechanisms that might be translatable from animals to humans.
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37
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Ade KK, Wan Y, Hamann HC, O’Hare JK, Guo W, Quian A, Kumar S, Bhagat S, Rodriguiz RM, Wetsel WC, Conn PJ, Dzirasa K, Huber KM, Calakos N. Increased Metabotropic Glutamate Receptor 5 Signaling Underlies Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder-like Behavioral and Striatal Circuit Abnormalities in Mice. Biol Psychiatry 2016; 80:522-33. [PMID: 27436084 PMCID: PMC5536332 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2016.04.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2015] [Revised: 04/29/2016] [Accepted: 04/29/2016] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Development of treatments for obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is hampered by a lack of mechanistic understanding about this prevalent neuropsychiatric condition. Although circuit changes such as elevated frontostriatal activity are linked to OCD, the underlying molecular signaling that drives OCD-related behaviors remains largely unknown. Here, we examine the significance of type 5 metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluR5s) for behavioral and circuit abnormalities relevant to OCD. METHODS Sapap3 knockout (KO) mice treated acutely with an mGluR5 antagonist were evaluated for OCD-relevant phenotypes of self-grooming, anxiety-like behaviors, and increased striatal activity. The role of mGluR5 in the striatal circuit abnormalities of Sapap3 KO mice was further explored using two-photon calcium imaging to monitor striatal output from the direct and indirect pathways. A contribution of constitutive signaling to increased striatal mGluR5 activity in Sapap3 KO mice was investigated using pharmacologic and biochemical approaches. Finally, sufficiency of mGluR5 to drive OCD-like behavior in wild-type mice was tested by potentiating mGluR5 with a positive allosteric modulator. RESULTS Excessive mGluR5 signaling underlies OCD-like behaviors and striatal circuit abnormalities in Sapap3 KO mice. Accordingly, enhancing mGluR5 activity acutely recapitulates these behavioral phenotypes in wild-type mice. In Sapap3 KO mice, elevated mGluR5 signaling is associated with constitutively active receptors and increased and imbalanced striatal output that is acutely corrected by antagonizing striatal mGluR5. CONCLUSIONS These findings demonstrate a causal role for increased mGluR5 signaling in driving striatal output abnormalities and behaviors with relevance to OCD and show the tractability of acute mGluR5 inhibition to remedy circuit and behavioral abnormalities.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Nicole Calakos
- Departments of Neurology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina; Neurobiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina.
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38
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Piochon C, Kano M, Hansel C. LTD-like molecular pathways in developmental synaptic pruning. Nat Neurosci 2016; 19:1299-310. [PMID: 27669991 PMCID: PMC5070480 DOI: 10.1038/nn.4389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2015] [Accepted: 07/27/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
In long-term depression (LTD) at synapses in the adult brain, synaptic strength is reduced in an experience-dependent manner. LTD thus provides a cellular mechanism for information storage in some forms of learning. A similar activity-dependent reduction in synaptic strength also occurs in the developing brain and there provides an essential step in synaptic pruning and the postnatal development of neural circuits. Here we review evidence suggesting that LTD and synaptic pruning share components of their underlying molecular machinery and may thus represent two developmental stages of the same type of synaptic modulation that serve different, but related, functions in neural circuit plasticity. We also assess the relationship between LTD and synaptic pruning in the context of recent findings of LTD dysregulation in several mouse models of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and discuss whether LTD deficits can indicate impaired pruning processes that are required for proper brain development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claire Piochon
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
- Department of Physiology, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Masanobu Kano
- Department of Neurophysiology, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Christian Hansel
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
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39
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Beraldo FH, Ostapchenko VG, Caetano FA, Guimaraes ALS, Ferretti GDS, Daude N, Bertram L, Nogueira KOPC, Silva JL, Westaway D, Cashman NR, Martins VR, Prado VF, Prado MAM. Regulation of Amyloid β Oligomer Binding to Neurons and Neurotoxicity by the Prion Protein-mGluR5 Complex. J Biol Chem 2016; 291:21945-21955. [PMID: 27563063 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m116.738286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2016] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The prion protein (PrPC) has been suggested to operate as a scaffold/receptor protein in neurons, participating in both physiological and pathological associated events. PrPC, laminin, and metabotropic glutamate receptor 5 (mGluR5) form a protein complex on the plasma membrane that can trigger signaling pathways involved in neuronal differentiation. PrPC and mGluR5 are co-receptors also for β-amyloid oligomers (AβOs) and have been shown to modulate toxicity and neuronal death in Alzheimer's disease. In the present work, we addressed the potential crosstalk between these two signaling pathways, laminin-PrPC-mGluR5 or AβO-PrPC-mGluR5, as well as their interplay. Herein, we demonstrated that an existing complex containing PrPC-mGluR5 has an important role in AβO binding and activity in neurons. A peptide mimicking the binding site of laminin onto PrPC (Ln-γ1) binds to PrPC and induces intracellular Ca2+ increase in neurons via the complex PrPC-mGluR5. Ln-γ1 promotes internalization of PrPC and mGluR5 and transiently decreases AβO biding to neurons; however, the peptide does not impact AβO toxicity. Given that mGluR5 is critical for toxic signaling by AβOs and in prion diseases, we tested whether mGlur5 knock-out mice would be susceptible to prion infection. Our results show mild, but significant, effects on disease progression, without affecting survival of mice after infection. These results suggest that PrPC-mGluR5 form a functional response unit by which multiple ligands can trigger signaling. We propose that trafficking of PrPC-mGluR5 may modulate signaling intensity by different PrPC ligands.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Fabiana A Caetano
- From the Robarts Research Institute and the Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario N6A 5B7,Canada
| | - Andre L S Guimaraes
- From the Robarts Research Institute and the Universidade Estadual de Montes Claros, Montes Claros, MG 39401-089, Brazil
| | - Giulia D S Ferretti
- From the Robarts Research Institute and the Programa de Biologia Estrutural, Instituto de Bioquimica Medica Leopoldo de Meis, Instututo Nacional de Biologia Estrutural e Bioimagem, Centro Nacional de Ressonacia Magnetica Nuclear Jiri Jonas, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-901, Brazil
| | - Nathalie Daude
- the Center for Prions and Protein Folding Diseases, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta T6G 2M8, Canada
| | - Lisa Bertram
- the Center for Brain Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Katiane O P C Nogueira
- From the Robarts Research Institute and the Instituto de Ciências Exatas e Biológicas, Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Ouro Preto, Campus Morro do Cruzeiro S/N, Ouro Preto, Minas Gerais 35400-000, Brazil
| | - Jerson L Silva
- the Programa de Biologia Estrutural, Instituto de Bioquimica Medica Leopoldo de Meis, Instututo Nacional de Biologia Estrutural e Bioimagem, Centro Nacional de Ressonacia Magnetica Nuclear Jiri Jonas, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-901, Brazil
| | - David Westaway
- the Center for Prions and Protein Folding Diseases, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta T6G 2M8, Canada
| | - Neil R Cashman
- the Center for Brain Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Vilma R Martins
- the International Center for Research and Education, A. C. Camargo Cancer Center, São Paulo, SP CEP 01509-010, Brazil, and
| | - Vania F Prado
- From the Robarts Research Institute and the Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario N6A 5B7,Canada, the Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario N6A 3K7, Canada
| | - Marco A M Prado
- From the Robarts Research Institute and the Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario N6A 5B7,Canada, the Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario N6A 3K7, Canada
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40
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Mullins C, Fishell G, Tsien RW. Unifying Views of Autism Spectrum Disorders: A Consideration of Autoregulatory Feedback Loops. Neuron 2016; 89:1131-1156. [PMID: 26985722 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2016.02.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 129] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/08/2016] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Understanding the mechanisms underlying autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) is a challenging goal. Here we review recent progress on several fronts, including genetics, proteomics, biochemistry, and electrophysiology, that raise motivation for forming a viable pathophysiological hypothesis. In place of a traditionally unidirectional progression, we put forward a framework that extends homeostatic hypotheses by explicitly emphasizing autoregulatory feedback loops and known synaptic biology. The regulated biological feature can be neuronal electrical activity, the collective strength of synapses onto a dendritic branch, the local concentration of a signaling molecule, or the relative strengths of synaptic excitation and inhibition. The sensor of the biological variable (which we have termed the homeostat) engages mechanisms that operate as negative feedback elements to keep the biological variable tightly confined. We categorize known ASD-associated gene products according to their roles in such feedback loops and provide detailed commentary for exemplar genes within each module.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caitlin Mullins
- Department of Neuroscience and Physiology, Neuroscience Institute, New York University Langone Medical Center, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Gord Fishell
- Department of Neuroscience and Physiology, Neuroscience Institute, New York University Langone Medical Center, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Richard W Tsien
- Department of Neuroscience and Physiology, Neuroscience Institute, New York University Langone Medical Center, New York, NY 10016, USA.
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41
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Ayers-Ringler JR, Oliveros A, Qiu Y, Lindberg DM, Hinton DJ, Moore RM, Dasari S, Choi DS. Label-Free Proteomic Analysis of Protein Changes in the Striatum during Chronic Ethanol Use and Early Withdrawal. Front Behav Neurosci 2016; 10:46. [PMID: 27014007 PMCID: PMC4786553 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2016.00046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2015] [Accepted: 02/26/2016] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The molecular mechanisms underlying the neuronal signaling changes in alcohol addiction and withdrawal are complex and multifaceted. The cortico-striatal circuit is highly implicated in these processes, and the striatum plays a significant role not only in the early stages of addiction, but in the developed-addictive state as well, including withdrawal symptoms. Transcriptional analysis is a useful method for determining changes in gene expression, however, the results do not always accurately correlate with protein levels. In this study, we employ label-free proteomic analysis to determine changes in protein expression within the striatum during chronic ethanol use and early withdrawal. The striatum, composed primarily of medium spiny GABAergic neurons, glutamatergic and dopaminergic nerve terminals and astrocytes, is relatively homogeneous for proteomic analysis. We were able to analyze more than 5000 proteins from both the dorsal (caudate and putamen) and ventral (nucleus accumbens) striatum and identified significant changes following chronic intermittent ethanol exposure and acute (8 h) withdrawal compared to ethanol naïve and ethanol exposure groups respectively. Our results showed significant changes in proteins involved in glutamate and opioid peptide signaling, and also uncovered novel pathways including mitochondrial function and lipid/cholesterol metabolism, as revealed by changes in electron transport chain proteins and RXR activation pathways. These results will be useful in the development of novel treatments for alcohol withdrawal and thereby aid in recovery from alcohol use disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alfredo Oliveros
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Mayo Graduate School, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Yanyan Qiu
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Mayo Graduate School, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Daniel M Lindberg
- Neurobiology of Disease PhD Program, Mayo Graduate School, Mayo Clinic Rochester, MN, USA
| | - David J Hinton
- Neurobiology of Disease PhD Program, Mayo Graduate School, Mayo Clinic Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Raymond M Moore
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Center for Individualized Medicine, Mayo Clinic Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Surendra Dasari
- Department of Health Sciences Research, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Doo-Sup Choi
- Neurobiology of Disease PhD Program, Mayo Graduate School, Mayo ClinicRochester, MN, USA; Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Mayo Graduate School, Mayo Clinic College of MedicineRochester, MN, USA; Department of Psychiatry and Psychology, Mayo Clinic College of MedicineRochester, MN, USA
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