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Kagan BJ, Kitchen AC, Tran NT, Habibollahi F, Khajehnejad M, Parker BJ, Bhat A, Rollo B, Razi A, Friston KJ. In vitro neurons learn and exhibit sentience when embodied in a simulated game-world. Neuron 2022; 110:3952-3969.e8. [PMID: 36228614 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2022.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2022] [Revised: 06/21/2022] [Accepted: 08/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Integrating neurons into digital systems may enable performance infeasible with silicon alone. Here, we develop DishBrain, a system that harnesses the inherent adaptive computation of neurons in a structured environment. In vitro neural networks from human or rodent origins are integrated with in silico computing via a high-density multielectrode array. Through electrophysiological stimulation and recording, cultures are embedded in a simulated game-world, mimicking the arcade game "Pong." Applying implications from the theory of active inference via the free energy principle, we find apparent learning within five minutes of real-time gameplay not observed in control conditions. Further experiments demonstrate the importance of closed-loop structured feedback in eliciting learning over time. Cultures display the ability to self-organize activity in a goal-directed manner in response to sparse sensory information about the consequences of their actions, which we term synthetic biological intelligence. Future applications may provide further insights into the cellular correlates of intelligence.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Nhi T Tran
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Forough Habibollahi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
| | - Moein Khajehnejad
- Department of Data Science and AI, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Bradyn J Parker
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Anjali Bhat
- Wellcome Trust Centre for Neuroimaging, Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Ben Rollo
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Adeel Razi
- Wellcome Trust Centre for Neuroimaging, Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, UK; Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia; Monash Biomedical Imaging, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia; CIFAR Azrieli Global Scholars Program, CIFAR, Toronto, Canada
| | - Karl J Friston
- Wellcome Trust Centre for Neuroimaging, Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, UK
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2
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Forbes LH, Andrews MR. Advances in human stem cell therapies: pre-clinical studies and the outlook for central nervous system regeneration. Neural Regen Res 2021; 16:614-617. [PMID: 33063709 PMCID: PMC8067917 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.295287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Cell transplantation has come to the forefront of regenerative medicine alongside the discovery and application of stem cells in both research and clinical settings. There are several types of stem cells currently being used for pre-clinical regenerative therapies, each with unique characteristics, benefits and limitations. This brief review will focus on recent basic science advancements made with embryonic stem cells and induced pluripotent stem cells. Both embryonic stem cells and induced pluripotent stem cells provide platforms for new neurons to replace dead and/or dying cells following injury. Due to their capacity for reprogramming and differentiation into any neuronal type, research in preclinical rodent models has shown that embryonic stem cells and induced pluripotent stem cells can integrate, survive and form connections in the nervous system similar to de novo cells. Going forward however, there are some limitations to consider with the use of either stem cell type. Ethically, embryonic stem cells are not an ideal source of cells, genetically, induced pluripotent stem cells are not ideal in terms of personalized treatment for those with certain genetic diseases the latter of which may guide regenerative medicine away from personalized stem cell based therapies and into optimized stem cell banks. Nonetheless, the potential of these stem cells in central nervous system regenerative therapy is only beginning to be appreciated. For example, through genetic modification, stem cells serve as ideal platforms to reintroduce missing or downregulated molecules into the nervous system to further induce regenerative growth. In this review, we highlight the limitations of stem cell based therapies whilst discussing some of the means of overcoming these limitations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsey H Forbes
- Medical Research Council Centre for Reproductive Health, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Melissa R Andrews
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
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3
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Noh JE, Oh SH, Park IH, Song J. Intracerebral Transplants of GMP-Grade Human Umbilical Cord-Derived Mesenchymal Stromal Cells Effectively Treat Subacute-Phase Ischemic Stroke in a Rodent Model. Front Cell Neurosci 2020; 14:546659. [PMID: 33100972 PMCID: PMC7546889 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2020.546659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2020] [Accepted: 09/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
In subacute and chronic phases of the stroke, there are no therapeutics available at present to promote functional recovery. Human umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stromal cells (hUC-MSCs) are one of the candidate cell types for treating subacute-phase stroke. The benefits of cell-based therapy largely depend on the migratory capacity of products administered, as well as their potential for engraftment in targeted tissues and paracrine activities. Timing and delivery modes may also influence the outcomes of stem-cell therapy. Still, the functional recuperative effects of differing hUC-MSC delivery modes, about cell replacement and cell-to-cell paracrine activity levels, have yet to be clarified in subacute phases of stroke.This study was conducted to compare the therapeutic effects of various delivery routes when administering Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP)-grade hUC-MSCs in a rodent model of subacute-phase stroke. Cell aliquots (1 × 106) were given to rats as intravenous (IV) injections or intracerebral (IC) transplants 1 week after middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAo). Transplanted rats were examined up to 7 weeks later using various behavioral tests and immunohistochemical analyses. Most IC-transplanted cells survived for short periods (i.e., <4 weeks after receipt) and gradually disappeared, whereas IV-injected cells were undetectable in the brain at the same time points (i.e., 3 days, 4 weeks, or 7 weeks after injection). Although short-lived, IC-transplanted cells effectively improved behavioral deficits, serving to reduce infarct volumes and glial scar formation, increase subventricular counts of proliferating neuroblasts, and promote cerebrovascular ingrowth in ischemic penumbra regions. IV injection, however, failed to improve behavioral function or histologic parameters during the same 7-week time frame. These findings overall suggest that IC transplantation is preferable to IV injection for delivery of hUC-MSCs during subacute phases of stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeong-Eun Noh
- Department of Biomedical Science, CHA Stem Cell Institute, CHA University, Seongnam-si, South Korea
| | - Seung-Hun Oh
- Department of Neurology, CHA Bundang Medical Center, CHA University, Seongnam-si, South Korea
| | - In-Hyun Park
- Department of Genetics, Yale Stem Cell Center, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Jihwan Song
- Department of Biomedical Science, CHA Stem Cell Institute, CHA University, Seongnam-si, South Korea.,iPS Bio, Inc., Seongnam-si, South Korea
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Activity in grafted human iPS cell-derived cortical neurons integrated in stroke-injured rat brain regulates motor behavior. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2020; 117:9094-9100. [PMID: 32253308 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2000690117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Stem cell transplantation can improve behavioral recovery after stroke in animal models but whether stem cell-derived neurons become functionally integrated into stroke-injured brain circuitry is poorly understood. Here we show that intracortically grafted human induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cell-derived cortical neurons send widespread axonal projections to both hemispheres of rats with ischemic lesions in the cerebral cortex. Using rabies virus-based transsynaptic tracing, we find that at 6 mo after transplantation, host neurons in the contralateral somatosensory cortex receive monosynaptic inputs from grafted neurons. Immunoelectron microscopy demonstrates myelination of the graft-derived axons in the corpus callosum and that their terminals form excitatory, glutamatergic synapses on host cortical neurons. We show that the stroke-induced asymmetry in a sensorimotor (cylinder) test is reversed by transplantation. Light-induced inhibition of halorhodopsin-expressing, grafted neurons does not recreate the impairment, indicating that its reversal is not due to neuronal activity in the graft. However, we find bilateral decrease of motor performance in the cylinder test after light-induced inhibition of either grafted or endogenous halorhodopsin-expressing cortical neurons, located in the same area, and after inhibition of endogenous halorhodopsin-expressing cortical neurons by exposure of their axons to light on the contralateral side. Our data indicate that activity in the grafted neurons, probably mediated through transcallosal connections to the contralateral hemisphere, is involved in maintaining normal motor function. This is an example of functional integration of efferent projections from grafted neurons into the stroke-affected brain's neural circuitry, which raises the possibility that such repair might be achievable also in humans affected by stroke.
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Neurons Derived from Human Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells Integrate into Rat Brain Circuits and Maintain Both Excitatory and Inhibitory Synaptic Activities. eNeuro 2019; 6:ENEURO.0148-19.2019. [PMID: 31413152 PMCID: PMC6709226 DOI: 10.1523/eneuro.0148-19.2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2019] [Revised: 07/30/2019] [Accepted: 08/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The human cerebral cortex is a complex structure with tightly interconnected excitatory and inhibitory neuronal networks. In order to study human cortical function, we recently developed a method to generate cortical neurons from human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) that form both excitatory and inhibitory neuronal networks resembling the composition of the human cortex. These cultures and organoids recapitulate neuronal populations representative of the six cortical layers and a balanced excitatory and inhibitory network that is functional and homeostatically stable. To determine whether hiPSC-derived neurons can integrate and retain physiologic activities in vivo, we labeled hiPSCs with red fluorescent protein (RFP) and introduced hiPSC-derived neural progenitors to rat brains. Efficient neural induction, followed by differentiation resulted in a RFP+ neural population with traits of forebrain identity and a balanced synaptic activity composed of both excitatory neurons and inhibitory interneurons. Ten weeks after transplantation, grafted cells structurally integrated into the rat forebrain. Remarkably, these hiPSC-derived neurons were able to fire, exhibiting both excitatory and inhibitory postsynaptic currents, which culminates in the establishment of neuronal connectivity with the host circuitry. This study demonstrates that neural progenitors derived from hiPSCs can differentiate into functional cortical neurons and can participate in neural network activity through functional synaptic integration in vivo, thereby contributing to information processing.
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Varrault A, Journot L, Bouschet T. Cerebral Cortex Generated from Pluripotent Stem Cells to Model Corticogenesis and Rebuild Cortical Circuits: In Vitro Veritas? Stem Cells Dev 2019; 28:361-369. [PMID: 30661489 DOI: 10.1089/scd.2018.0233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Organoids and cells generated in vitro from pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) are considered to be robust models of development and a conceivable source of transplants for putative cell therapy. However, a fundamental question about organoids and cells generated from PSCs is as follows: do they faithfully reproduce the in vivo tissue they are supposed to mimic and replace? This question is particularly relevant to complex tissues such as the cerebral cortex. In this review, we have tackled this issue by comparing cerebral cortices generated in vitro from PSCs to the in vivo cortex, with a particular focus on their respective cellular composition, molecular and epigenetic signatures, and brain connectivity. In short, in vitro cortex generated from PSCs reproduces most of the cardinal features of the in vivo cortex, including temporal corticogenesis and connectivity when PSC-derived cortical cells are grafted in recipient mouse cortex. However, compared to in vivo cortex, in vitro cortex lacks microglia and blood vessels and is less mature. Recent experiments show that the brain of the transplanted host provides these missing cell types together with an environment that promotes the synaptic maturation of the cortical transplant. Taken together, these data suggest that corticogenesis is largely intrinsic and well recapitulated in vitro, while the full maturation of cortical cells requires additional environmental clues. Finally, we propose some lines of work to improve corticogenesis from PSCs as a tool to model corticogenesis and rebuild cortical circuits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annie Varrault
- Institut de Génomique Fonctionnelle, IGF, CNRS, INSERM, Université de Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Laurent Journot
- Institut de Génomique Fonctionnelle, IGF, CNRS, INSERM, Université de Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Tristan Bouschet
- Institut de Génomique Fonctionnelle, IGF, CNRS, INSERM, Université de Montpellier, Montpellier, France
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7
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Forbes LH, Andrews MR. Grafted Human iPSC-Derived Neural Progenitor Cells Express Integrins and Extend Long-Distance Axons Within the Developing Corticospinal Tract. Front Cell Neurosci 2019; 13:26. [PMID: 30809126 PMCID: PMC6380224 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2019.00026] [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: 07/30/2018] [Accepted: 01/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
After spinal cord injury (SCI), regeneration of adult motor axons such as axons in the corticospinal tract (CST) is severely limited. Alongside the inhibitory lesion environment, most neuronal subtypes in the mature central nervous system (CNS) are intrinsically unrepairable. With age, expression of growth-promoting proteins in neurons, such as integrins, declines. Integrin receptors allow communication between the extracellular matrix (ECM) and cell cytoskeleton and their expression in axons facilitates growth and guidance throughout the ECM. The α9β1 integrin heterodimer binds to tenascin-C (TN-C), an ECM glycoprotein expressed during development and after injury. In the mature CST however, expression of the α9 integrin subunit is downregulated, adding to the intrinsic inability of axons to regenerate. Our previous work has shown the α9 integrin subunit is not trafficked within axons of mature CST or rubrospinal tracts (RSTs). Thus, here we have utilized human induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived neural progenitor cells (NPCs) to increase expression of α9 integrinwithin the developing rat CST. We demonstrate that human NPCs (hNPCs) express endogenous levels of both α9 and β1 integrin subunits as well as cortical neuron markers such as chicken ovalbumin upstream promoter transcription factor (COUP-TF) interacting protein 2 (Ctip2) and T-box brain 1 (Tbr1). In addition, lentivirus-mediated α9 integrin overexpression in hNPCs resulted in increased neurite outgrowth in the presence of TN-C in vitro. Following transplantation into the sensorimotor cortex of newborn rats, both wild type (WT) and α9-expressing hNPCs extend along the endogenous CST and retain expression of α9 throughout the length of the axonal compartment for up to 8 weeks following transplantation. These data highlight the growth potential of transplanted human iPSCs which may be a future target for regenerative therapies after nervous system injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsey H Forbes
- School of Medicine, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, United Kingdom
| | - Melissa R Andrews
- School of Medicine, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, United Kingdom.,Biological Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
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8
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Bruggeman KF, Moriarty N, Dowd E, Nisbet DR, Parish CL. Harnessing stem cells and biomaterials to promote neural repair. Br J Pharmacol 2019; 176:355-368. [PMID: 30444942 PMCID: PMC6329623 DOI: 10.1111/bph.14545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2018] [Revised: 10/16/2018] [Accepted: 10/22/2018] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
With the limited capacity for self-repair in the adult CNS, efforts to stimulate quiescent stem cell populations within discrete brain regions, as well as harness the potential of stem cell transplants, offer significant hope for neural repair. These new cells are capable of providing trophic cues to support residual host populations and/or replace those cells lost to the primary insult. However, issues with low-level adult neurogenesis, cell survival, directed differentiation and inadequate reinnervation of host tissue have impeded the full potential of these therapeutic approaches and their clinical advancement. Biomaterials offer novel approaches to stimulate endogenous neurogenesis, as well as for the delivery and support of neural progenitor transplants, providing a tissue-appropriate physical and trophic milieu for the newly integrating cells. In this review, we will discuss the various approaches by which bioengineered scaffolds may improve stem cell-based therapies for repair of the CNS.
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Affiliation(s)
- K F Bruggeman
- Laboratory of Advanced Biomaterials, Research School of EngineeringThe Australian National UniversityCanberraACTAustralia
| | - N Moriarty
- Pharmacology and Therapeutics and Galway Neuroscience CentreNational University of Ireland GalwayGalwayIreland
| | - E Dowd
- Pharmacology and Therapeutics and Galway Neuroscience CentreNational University of Ireland GalwayGalwayIreland
| | - D R Nisbet
- Laboratory of Advanced Biomaterials, Research School of EngineeringThe Australian National UniversityCanberraACTAustralia
| | - C L Parish
- The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental HealthThe University of MelbourneParkvilleVICAustralia
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9
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Nisbet DR, Wang TY, Bruggeman KF, Niclis JC, Somaa FA, Penna V, Hunt CPJ, Wang Y, Kauhausen JA, Williams RJ, Thompson LH, Parish CL. Shear Containment of BDNF within Molecular Hydrogels Promotes Human Stem Cell Engraftment and Postinfarction Remodeling in Stroke. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018. [DOI: 10.1002/adbi.201800113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- D. R. Nisbet
- Laboratory of Advanced Materials Research School of Engineering The Australian National University Canberra 2601 Australia
- Biofab3D Aikenhead Center for Medical Discovery St. Vincent's Hospital Melbourne Victoria 3065 Australia
| | - T. Y. Wang
- The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health The University of Melbourne Parkville Victoria 3010 Australia
| | - K. F. Bruggeman
- Laboratory of Advanced Materials Research School of Engineering The Australian National University Canberra 2601 Australia
| | - J. C. Niclis
- The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health The University of Melbourne Parkville Victoria 3010 Australia
| | - F. A. Somaa
- The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health The University of Melbourne Parkville Victoria 3010 Australia
| | - V. Penna
- The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health The University of Melbourne Parkville Victoria 3010 Australia
| | - C. P. J. Hunt
- The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health The University of Melbourne Parkville Victoria 3010 Australia
| | - Y. Wang
- Laboratory of Advanced Materials Research School of Engineering The Australian National University Canberra 2601 Australia
| | - J. A. Kauhausen
- The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health The University of Melbourne Parkville Victoria 3010 Australia
| | - R. J. Williams
- Biofab3D Aikenhead Center for Medical Discovery St. Vincent's Hospital Melbourne Victoria 3065 Australia
- School of Engineering RMIT University Melbourne 3001 Australia
| | - L. H. Thompson
- The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health The University of Melbourne Parkville Victoria 3010 Australia
| | - C. L. Parish
- The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health The University of Melbourne Parkville Victoria 3010 Australia
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10
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Somaa FA, Wang TY, Niclis JC, Bruggeman KF, Kauhausen JA, Guo H, McDougall S, Williams RJ, Nisbet DR, Thompson LH, Parish CL. Peptide-Based Scaffolds Support Human Cortical Progenitor Graft Integration to Reduce Atrophy and Promote Functional Repair in a Model of Stroke. Cell Rep 2018; 20:1964-1977. [PMID: 28834757 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2017.07.069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2017] [Revised: 06/07/2017] [Accepted: 07/24/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Stem cell transplants offer significant hope for brain repair following ischemic damage. Pre-clinical work suggests that therapeutic mechanisms may be multi-faceted, incorporating bone-fide circuit reconstruction by transplanted neurons, but also protection/regeneration of host circuitry. Here, we engineered hydrogel scaffolds to form "bio-bridges" within the necrotic lesion cavity, providing physical and trophic support to transplanted human embryonic stem cell-derived cortical progenitors, as well as residual host neurons. Scaffolds were fabricated by the self-assembly of peptides for a laminin-derived epitope (IKVAV), thereby mimicking the brain's major extracellular protein. Following focal ischemia in rats, scaffold-supported cell transplants induced progressive motor improvements over 9 months, compared to cell- or scaffold-only implants. These grafts were larger, exhibited greater neuronal differentiation, and showed enhanced electrophysiological properties reflective of mature, integrated neurons. Varying graft timing post-injury enabled us to attribute repair to both neuroprotection and circuit replacement. These findings highlight strategies to improve the efficiency of stem cell grafts for brain repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fahad A Somaa
- The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Ting-Yi Wang
- The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Jonathan C Niclis
- The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Kiara F Bruggeman
- Laboratory of Advanced Materials, Research School of Engineering, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia
| | - Jessica A Kauhausen
- The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Haoyao Guo
- The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Stuart McDougall
- The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
| | | | - David R Nisbet
- Laboratory of Advanced Materials, Research School of Engineering, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia
| | - Lachlan H Thompson
- The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia.
| | - Clare L Parish
- The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia.
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11
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Ramdzan YM, Trubetskov MM, Ormsby AR, Newcombe EA, Sui X, Tobin MJ, Bongiovanni MN, Gras SL, Dewson G, Miller JML, Finkbeiner S, Moily NS, Niclis J, Parish CL, Purcell AW, Baker MJ, Wilce JA, Waris S, Stojanovski D, Böcking T, Ang CS, Ascher DB, Reid GE, Hatters DM. Huntingtin Inclusions Trigger Cellular Quiescence, Deactivate Apoptosis, and Lead to Delayed Necrosis. Cell Rep 2018; 19:919-927. [PMID: 28467905 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2017.04.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2016] [Revised: 03/16/2017] [Accepted: 04/10/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Competing models exist in the literature for the relationship between mutant Huntingtin exon 1 (Httex1) inclusion formation and toxicity. In one, inclusions are adaptive by sequestering the proteotoxicity of soluble Httex1. In the other, inclusions compromise cellular activity as a result of proteome co-aggregation. Using a biosensor of Httex1 conformation in mammalian cell models, we discovered a mechanism that reconciles these competing models. Newly formed inclusions were composed of disordered Httex1 and ribonucleoproteins. As inclusions matured, Httex1 reconfigured into amyloid, and other glutamine-rich and prion domain-containing proteins were recruited. Soluble Httex1 caused a hyperpolarized mitochondrial membrane potential, increased reactive oxygen species, and promoted apoptosis. Inclusion formation triggered a collapsed mitochondrial potential, cellular quiescence, and deactivated apoptosis. We propose a revised model where sequestration of soluble Httex1 inclusions can remove the trigger for apoptosis but also co-aggregate other proteins, which curtails cellular metabolism and leads to a slow death by necrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasmin M Ramdzan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Bio21 Molecular Science and Biotechnology Institute, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Mikhail M Trubetskov
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Bio21 Molecular Science and Biotechnology Institute, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Angelique R Ormsby
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Bio21 Molecular Science and Biotechnology Institute, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Estella A Newcombe
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Bio21 Molecular Science and Biotechnology Institute, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Xiaojing Sui
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Bio21 Molecular Science and Biotechnology Institute, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Mark J Tobin
- Australian Synchrotron, 800 Blackburn Road, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia
| | | | - Sally L Gras
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering and Bio21 Molecular Science and Biotechnology Institute, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Grant Dewson
- Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, 1G Royal Parade, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia; Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Jason M L Miller
- University of Michigan Kellogg Eye Center, 1000 Wall Street, Ann Arbor, MI 48105, USA
| | - Steven Finkbeiner
- Gladstone Institute of Neurological Disease, 1650 Owens Street, San Francisco, CA 94158-2261, USA
| | - Nagaraj S Moily
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Bio21 Molecular Science and Biotechnology Institute, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Jonathan Niclis
- The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Clare L Parish
- The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Anthony W Purcell
- Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Michael J Baker
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Bio21 Molecular Science and Biotechnology Institute, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Jacqueline A Wilce
- Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Saboora Waris
- Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Diana Stojanovski
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Bio21 Molecular Science and Biotechnology Institute, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Till Böcking
- School of Medical Sciences, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Ching-Seng Ang
- Bio21 Mass Spectrometry and Proteomics Facility, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - David B Ascher
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Bio21 Molecular Science and Biotechnology Institute, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Gavin E Reid
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Bio21 Molecular Science and Biotechnology Institute, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia; School of Chemistry, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Danny M Hatters
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Bio21 Molecular Science and Biotechnology Institute, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia.
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12
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Grade S, Götz M. Neuronal replacement therapy: previous achievements and challenges ahead. NPJ Regen Med 2017; 2:29. [PMID: 29302363 PMCID: PMC5677983 DOI: 10.1038/s41536-017-0033-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2017] [Revised: 09/22/2017] [Accepted: 09/25/2017] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Lifelong neurogenesis and incorporation of newborn neurons into mature neuronal circuits operates in specialized niches of the mammalian brain and serves as role model for neuronal replacement strategies. However, to which extent can the remaining brain parenchyma, which never incorporates new neurons during the adulthood, be as plastic and readily accommodate neurons in networks that suffered neuronal loss due to injury or neurological disease? Which microenvironment is permissive for neuronal replacement and synaptic integration and which cells perform best? Can lost function be restored and how adequate is the participation in the pre-existing circuitry? Could aberrant connections cause malfunction especially in networks dominated by excitatory neurons, such as the cerebral cortex? These questions show how important connectivity and circuitry aspects are for regenerative medicine, which is the focus of this review. We will discuss the impressive advances in neuronal replacement strategies and success from exogenous as well as endogenous cell sources. Both have seen key novel technologies, like the groundbreaking discovery of induced pluripotent stem cells and direct neuronal reprogramming, offering alternatives to the transplantation of fetal neurons, and both herald great expectations. For these to become reality, neuronal circuitry analysis is key now. As our understanding of neuronal circuits increases, neuronal replacement therapy should fulfill those prerequisites in network structure and function, in brain-wide input and output. Now is the time to incorporate neural circuitry research into regenerative medicine if we ever want to truly repair brain injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofia Grade
- Physiological Genomics, Biomedical Center, Ludwig-Maximilians University Munich, 82152 Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
- Institute of Stem Cell Research, Helmholtz Center Munich, German Research Center for Environmental Health, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Magdalena Götz
- Physiological Genomics, Biomedical Center, Ludwig-Maximilians University Munich, 82152 Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
- Institute of Stem Cell Research, Helmholtz Center Munich, German Research Center for Environmental Health, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany
- SYNERGY, Excellence Cluster of Systems Neurology, Biomedical Center, Ludwig-Maximilians University Munich, 82152 Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
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13
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Niclis JC, Gantner CW, Hunt CPJ, Kauhausen JA, Durnall JC, Haynes JM, Pouton CW, Parish CL, Thompson LH. A PITX3-EGFP Reporter Line Reveals Connectivity of Dopamine and Non-dopamine Neuronal Subtypes in Grafts Generated from Human Embryonic Stem Cells. Stem Cell Reports 2017; 9:868-882. [PMID: 28867345 PMCID: PMC5599268 DOI: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2017.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2017] [Revised: 08/03/2017] [Accepted: 08/04/2017] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Development of safe and effective stem cell-based therapies for brain repair requires an in-depth understanding of the in vivo properties of neural grafts generated from human stem cells. Replacing dopamine neurons in Parkinson's disease remains one of the most anticipated applications. Here, we have used a human PITX3-EGFP embryonic stem cell line to characterize the connectivity of stem cell-derived midbrain dopamine neurons in the dopamine-depleted host brain with an unprecedented level of specificity. The results show that the major A9 and A10 subclasses of implanted dopamine neurons innervate multiple, developmentally appropriate host targets but also that the majority of graft-derived connectivity is non-dopaminergic. These findings highlight the promise of stem cell-based procedures for anatomically correct reconstruction of specific neuronal pathways but also emphasize the scope for further refinement in order to limit the inclusion of uncharacterized and potentially unwanted cell types.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan C Niclis
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Royal Parade, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Carlos W Gantner
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Royal Parade, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Cameron P J Hunt
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Royal Parade, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia; Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, 381 Royal Parade, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Jessica A Kauhausen
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Royal Parade, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Jennifer C Durnall
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Royal Parade, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - John M Haynes
- Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, 381 Royal Parade, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Colin W Pouton
- Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, 381 Royal Parade, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Clare L Parish
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Royal Parade, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia.
| | - Lachlan H Thompson
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Royal Parade, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia.
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WDR62 Regulates Early Neural and Glial Progenitor Specification of Human Pluripotent Stem Cells. Stem Cells Int 2017; 2017:7848932. [PMID: 28690640 PMCID: PMC5485354 DOI: 10.1155/2017/7848932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2016] [Accepted: 03/22/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Mutations in WD40-repeat protein 62 (WDR62) are commonly associated with primary microcephaly and other developmental cortical malformations. We used human pluripotent stem cells (hPSC) to examine WDR62 function during human neural differentiation and model early stages of human corticogenesis. Neurospheres lacking WDR62 expression showed decreased expression of intermediate progenitor marker, TBR2, and also glial marker, S100β. In contrast, inhibition of c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) signalling during hPSC neural differentiation induced upregulation of WDR62 with a corresponding increase in neural and glial progenitor markers, PAX6 and EAAT1, respectively. These findings may signify a role of WDR62 in specifying intermediate neural and glial progenitors during human pluripotent stem cell differentiation.
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15
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Struzyna LA, Adewole DO, Gordián-Vélez WJ, Grovola MR, Burrell JC, Katiyar KS, Petrov D, Harris JP, Cullen DK. Anatomically Inspired Three-dimensional Micro-tissue Engineered Neural Networks for Nervous System Reconstruction, Modulation, and Modeling. J Vis Exp 2017. [PMID: 28605376 DOI: 10.3791/55609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Functional recovery rarely occurs following injury or disease-induced degeneration within the central nervous system (CNS) due to the inhibitory environment and the limited capacity for neurogenesis. We are developing a strategy to simultaneously address neuronal and axonal pathway loss within the damaged CNS. This manuscript presents the fabrication protocol for micro-tissue engineered neural networks (micro-TENNs), implantable constructs consisting of neurons and aligned axonal tracts spanning the extracellular matrix (ECM) lumen of a preformed hydrogel cylinder hundreds of microns in diameter that may extend centimeters in length. Neuronal aggregates are delimited to the extremes of the three-dimensional encasement and are spanned by axonal projections. Micro-TENNs are uniquely poised as a strategy for CNS reconstruction, emulating aspects of brain connectome cytoarchitecture and potentially providing means for network replacement. The neuronal aggregates may synapse with host tissue to form new functional relays to restore and/or modulate missing or damaged circuitry. These constructs may also act as pro-regenerative "living scaffolds" capable of exploiting developmental mechanisms for cell migration and axonal pathfinding, providing synergistic structural and soluble cues based on the state of regeneration. Micro-TENNs are fabricated by pouring liquid hydrogel into a cylindrical mold containing a longitudinally centered needle. Once the hydrogel has gelled, the needle is removed, leaving a hollow micro-column. An ECM solution is added to the lumen to provide an environment suitable for neuronal adhesion and axonal outgrowth. Dissociated neurons are mechanically aggregated for precise seeding within one or both ends of the micro-column. This methodology reliably produces self-contained miniature constructs with long-projecting axonal tracts that may recapitulate features of brain neuroanatomy. Synaptic immunolabeling and genetically encoded calcium indicators suggest that micro-TENNs possess extensive synaptic distribution and intrinsic electrical activity. Consequently, micro-TENNs represent a promising strategy for targeted neurosurgical reconstruction of brain pathways and may also be applied as biofidelic models to study neurobiological phenomena in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura A Struzyna
- Department of Bioengineering, School of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Pennsylvania; Center for Brain Injury & Repair, Department of Neurosurgery, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania; Center for Neurotrauma, Neurodegeneration & Restoration, Michael J. Crescenz Veterans Affairs Medical Center
| | - Dayo O Adewole
- Department of Bioengineering, School of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Pennsylvania; Center for Brain Injury & Repair, Department of Neurosurgery, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania; Center for Neurotrauma, Neurodegeneration & Restoration, Michael J. Crescenz Veterans Affairs Medical Center
| | - Wisberty J Gordián-Vélez
- Department of Bioengineering, School of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Pennsylvania; Center for Brain Injury & Repair, Department of Neurosurgery, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania; Center for Neurotrauma, Neurodegeneration & Restoration, Michael J. Crescenz Veterans Affairs Medical Center
| | - Michael R Grovola
- Center for Brain Injury & Repair, Department of Neurosurgery, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania; Center for Neurotrauma, Neurodegeneration & Restoration, Michael J. Crescenz Veterans Affairs Medical Center
| | - Justin C Burrell
- Center for Brain Injury & Repair, Department of Neurosurgery, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania; Center for Neurotrauma, Neurodegeneration & Restoration, Michael J. Crescenz Veterans Affairs Medical Center
| | - Kritika S Katiyar
- Center for Brain Injury & Repair, Department of Neurosurgery, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania; Center for Neurotrauma, Neurodegeneration & Restoration, Michael J. Crescenz Veterans Affairs Medical Center; School of Biomedical Engineering, Drexel University
| | - Dmitriy Petrov
- Center for Brain Injury & Repair, Department of Neurosurgery, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania; Center for Neurotrauma, Neurodegeneration & Restoration, Michael J. Crescenz Veterans Affairs Medical Center
| | - James P Harris
- Center for Brain Injury & Repair, Department of Neurosurgery, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania; Center for Neurotrauma, Neurodegeneration & Restoration, Michael J. Crescenz Veterans Affairs Medical Center
| | - D Kacy Cullen
- Center for Brain Injury & Repair, Department of Neurosurgery, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania; Center for Neurotrauma, Neurodegeneration & Restoration, Michael J. Crescenz Veterans Affairs Medical Center;
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16
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Dunnett SB, Björklund A. Mechanisms and use of neural transplants for brain repair. PROGRESS IN BRAIN RESEARCH 2017; 230:1-51. [PMID: 28552225 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pbr.2016.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Under appropriate conditions, neural tissues transplanted into the adult mammalian brain can survive, integrate, and function so as to influence the behavior of the host, opening the prospect of repairing neuronal damage, and alleviating symptoms associated with neuronal injury or neurodegenerative disease. Alternative mechanisms of action have been postulated: nonspecific effects of surgery; neurotrophic and neuroprotective influences on disease progression and host plasticity; diffuse or locally regulated pharmacological delivery of deficient neurochemicals, neurotransmitters, or neurohormones; restitution of the neuronal and glial environment necessary for proper host neuronal support and processing; promoting local and long-distance host and graft axon growth; formation of reciprocal connections and reconstruction of local circuits within the host brain; and up to full integration and reconstruction of fully functional host neuronal networks. Analysis of neural transplants in a broad range of anatomical systems and disease models, on simple and complex classes of behavioral function and information processing, have indicated that all of these alternative mechanisms are likely to contribute in different circumstances. Thus, there is not a single or typical mode of graft function; rather grafts can and do function in multiple ways, specific to each particular context. Consequently, to develop an effective cell-based therapy, multiple dimensions must be considered: the target disease pathogenesis; the neurodegenerative basis of each type of physiological dysfunction or behavioral symptom; the nature of the repair required to alleviate or remediate the functional impairments of particular clinical relevance; and identification of a suitable cell source or delivery system, along with the site and method of implantation, that can achieve the sought for repair and recovery.
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17
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Structural divergence of essential triad ribbon synapse proteins among placental mammals - Implications for preclinical trials in photoreceptor transplantation therapy. Exp Eye Res 2017; 159:156-167. [PMID: 28322827 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2017.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2016] [Revised: 01/24/2017] [Accepted: 03/17/2017] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
As photoreceptor transplantation rapidly moves closer to the clinic, verifying graft efficacy in animal models may have unforeseen xenogeneic barriers. Although photoreceptor transplants have most convincingly exhibited functional synaptogenesis in conspecific studies, such evidence (while ruling out false-positives due to: viral graft labeling, fusion/cytosolic transfer, or neuroprotection) has not yet been shown for discordant xenografts. From this, a fundamental question should be raised: is useful xenosynaptogenesis likely between human photoreceptors and mouse retina? The triad ribbon synapse (TRS) that would normally form is unique and contains trans-synaptic proteins essential to its formation and function. Thus, could interspecific structural divergence be present that may inhibit this trans-synaptic bridge in discordant xenografts? In an effort to address this question computationally, we compared eight recently confirmed (including subcellular location) TRS specific (or predominantly expressed at the TRS) proteins among placental mammals (1-to-1 orthologs) using HyPhy selection analysis (a predictive measure of structural divergence) and by using Phyre2 tertiary structural modeling. Here, selection analysis revealed strong positive (diversifying) selection acting on a particularly important TRS protein: pikachurin. This positive selection was localized to its second Laminin-G (LG)-like domain and on its N-terminal domain - a putative region of trans-synaptic interaction. Localization of structural divergence to the N-terminus of each putative post-translational cleavage (PTC) product may suggest neofunctionalization from ancestral uncleaved pikachurin - this would be consistent with a recent counter-paradigm report of pikachurin cleavage predominating at the TRS. From this, we suggest a dual role after cleavage where the N-terminal fragment can still mediate the trans-synaptic bridge, while the C-terminal fragment may act as a diffusible trophic or "homing" factor for bipolar cell dendrite migration. Tertiary structural models mirrored the conformational divergence predicted by selection analysis. With human and mouse pikachurin (as well as other TRS proteins) likely to diverge considerably in structure among placental mammals - alongside known inter-mammalian variation in TRS phenotype and protein repertoire, high levels of diversifying selection acting on genes involving sensation, considerable timespans allowing for genetic drift that can create xenogeneic epistasis, and uncertainty surrounding the extent of xenosynaptogenesis in PPC transplant studies to date - use of distantly related hosts to test human photoreceptor graft therapeutic efficacy should be considered with caution.
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18
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Niclis JC, Turner C, Durnall J, McDougal S, Kauhausen JA, Leaw B, Dottori M, Parish CL, Thompson LH. Long-Distance Axonal Growth and Protracted Functional Maturation of Neurons Derived from Human Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells After Intracerebral Transplantation. Stem Cells Transl Med 2017; 6:1547-1556. [PMID: 28198124 PMCID: PMC5689777 DOI: 10.1002/sctm.16-0198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2016] [Accepted: 10/31/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The capacity for induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells to be differentiated into a wide range of neural cell types makes them an attractive donor source for autologous neural transplantation therapies aimed at brain repair. Translation to the in vivo setting has been difficult, however, with mixed results in a wide variety of preclinical models of brain injury and limited information on the basic in vivo properties of neural grafts generated from human iPS cells. Here we have generated a human iPS cell line constitutively expressing green fluorescent protein as a basis to identify and characterize grafts resulting from transplantation of neural progenitors into the adult rat brain. The results show that the grafts contain a mix of neural cell types, at various stages of differentiation, including neurons that establish extensive patterns of axonal growth and progressively develop functional properties over the course of 1 year after implantation. These findings form an important basis for the design and interpretation of preclinical studies using human stem cells for functional circuit re‐construction in animal models of brain injury. Stem Cells Translational Medicine2017;6:1547–1556
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan C Niclis
- Florey Institute for Neuroscience and Mental Health, Royal Parade, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Christopher Turner
- Florey Institute for Neuroscience and Mental Health, Royal Parade, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jennifer Durnall
- Florey Institute for Neuroscience and Mental Health, Royal Parade, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Stuart McDougal
- Florey Institute for Neuroscience and Mental Health, Royal Parade, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jessica A Kauhausen
- Florey Institute for Neuroscience and Mental Health, Royal Parade, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Bryan Leaw
- Florey Institute for Neuroscience and Mental Health, Royal Parade, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Mirella Dottori
- Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Centre for Neural Engineering, University of Melbourne, Royal Parade, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Clare L Parish
- Florey Institute for Neuroscience and Mental Health, Royal Parade, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Lachlan H Thompson
- Florey Institute for Neuroscience and Mental Health, Royal Parade, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
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19
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Newland B, Dunnett SB, Dowd E. Targeting delivery in Parkinson's disease. Drug Discov Today 2016; 21:1313-20. [DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2016.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2015] [Revised: 05/23/2016] [Accepted: 06/06/2016] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
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20
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Harris JP, Struzyna LA, Murphy PL, Adewole DO, Kuo E, Cullen DK. Advanced biomaterial strategies to transplant preformed micro-tissue engineered neural networks into the brain. J Neural Eng 2016; 13:016019. [PMID: 26760138 DOI: 10.1088/1741-2560/13/1/016019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Connectome disruption is a hallmark of many neurological diseases and trauma with no current strategies to restore lost long-distance axonal pathways in the brain. We are creating transplantable micro-tissue engineered neural networks (micro-TENNs), which are preformed constructs consisting of embedded neurons and long axonal tracts to integrate with the nervous system to physically reconstitute lost axonal pathways. APPROACH We advanced micro-tissue engineering techniques to generate micro-TENNs consisting of discrete populations of mature primary cerebral cortical neurons spanned by long axonal fascicles encased in miniature hydrogel micro-columns. Further, we improved the biomaterial encasement scheme by adding a thin layer of low viscosity carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) to enable needle-less insertion and rapid softening for mechanical similarity with brain tissue. MAIN RESULTS The engineered architecture of cortical micro-TENNs facilitated robust neuronal viability and axonal cytoarchitecture to at least 22 days in vitro. Micro-TENNs displayed discrete neuronal populations spanned by long axonal fasciculation throughout the core, thus mimicking the general systems-level anatomy of gray matter-white matter in the brain. Additionally, micro-columns with thin CMC-coating upon mild dehydration were able to withstand a force of 893 ± 457 mN before buckling, whereas a solid agarose cylinder of similar dimensions was predicted to withstand less than 150 μN of force. This thin CMC coating increased the stiffness by three orders of magnitude, enabling needle-less insertion into brain while significantly reducing the footprint of previous needle-based delivery methods to minimize insertion trauma. SIGNIFICANCE Our novel micro-TENNs are the first strategy designed for minimally invasive implantation to facilitate nervous system repair by simultaneously providing neuronal replacement and physical reconstruction of long-distance axon pathways in the brain. The micro-TENN approach may offer the ability to treat several disorders that disrupt the connectome, including Parkinson's disease, traumatic brain injury, stroke, and brain tumor excision.
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Affiliation(s)
- J P Harris
- Center for Brain Injury and Repair, Department of Neurosurgery, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA. Philadelphia Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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21
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Struzyna LA, Wolf JA, Mietus CJ, Adewole DO, Chen HI, Smith DH, Cullen DK. Rebuilding Brain Circuitry with Living Micro-Tissue Engineered Neural Networks. Tissue Eng Part A 2015; 21:2744-56. [PMID: 26414439 DOI: 10.1089/ten.tea.2014.0557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Prominent neuropathology following trauma, stroke, and various neurodegenerative diseases includes neuronal degeneration as well as loss of long-distance axonal connections. While cell replacement and axonal pathfinding strategies are often explored independently, there is no strategy capable of simultaneously replacing lost neurons and re-establishing long-distance axonal connections in the central nervous system. Accordingly, we have created micro-tissue engineered neural networks (micro-TENNs), which are preformed constructs consisting of long integrated axonal tracts spanning discrete neuronal populations. These living micro-TENNs reconstitute the architecture of long-distance axonal tracts, and thus may serve as an effective substrate for targeted neurosurgical reconstruction of damaged pathways in the brain. Cerebral cortical neurons or dorsal root ganglia neurons were precisely delivered into the tubular constructs, and properties of the hydrogel exterior and extracellular matrix internal column (180-500 μm diameter) were optimized for robust neuronal survival and to promote axonal extensions across the 2.0 cm tube length. The very small diameter permits minimally invasive delivery into the brain. In this study, preformed micro-TENNs were stereotaxically injected into naive rats to bridge deep thalamic structures with the cerebral cortex to assess construct survival and integration. We found that micro-TENN neurons survived at least 1 month and maintained their long axonal architecture along the cortical-thalamic axis. Notably, we also found neurite penetration from micro-TENN neurons into the host cortex, with evidence of synapse formation. These micro-TENNs represent a new strategy to facilitate nervous system repair by recapitulating features of neural pathways to restore or modulate damaged brain circuitry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura A Struzyna
- 1 Center for Brain Injury and Repair, Department of Neurosurgery, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania , Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.,2 Philadelphia Veterans Affairs Medical Center , Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.,3 Department of Bioengineering, School of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Pennsylvania , Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - John A Wolf
- 1 Center for Brain Injury and Repair, Department of Neurosurgery, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania , Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.,2 Philadelphia Veterans Affairs Medical Center , Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Constance J Mietus
- 1 Center for Brain Injury and Repair, Department of Neurosurgery, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania , Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Dayo O Adewole
- 1 Center for Brain Injury and Repair, Department of Neurosurgery, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania , Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.,2 Philadelphia Veterans Affairs Medical Center , Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.,3 Department of Bioengineering, School of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Pennsylvania , Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - H Isaac Chen
- 1 Center for Brain Injury and Repair, Department of Neurosurgery, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania , Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.,2 Philadelphia Veterans Affairs Medical Center , Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Douglas H Smith
- 1 Center for Brain Injury and Repair, Department of Neurosurgery, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania , Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - D Kacy Cullen
- 1 Center for Brain Injury and Repair, Department of Neurosurgery, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania , Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.,2 Philadelphia Veterans Affairs Medical Center , Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
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Carmona-Mora P, Widagdo J, Tomasetig F, Canales CP, Cha Y, Lee W, Alshawaf A, Dottori M, Whan RM, Hardeman EC, Palmer SJ. The nuclear localization pattern and interaction partners of GTF2IRD1 demonstrate a role in chromatin regulation. Hum Genet 2015; 134:1099-115. [PMID: 26275350 DOI: 10.1007/s00439-015-1591-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2015] [Accepted: 08/04/2015] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
GTF2IRD1 is one of the three members of the GTF2I gene family, clustered on chromosome 7 within a 1.8 Mb region that is prone to duplications and deletions in humans. Hemizygous deletions cause Williams-Beuren syndrome (WBS) and duplications cause WBS duplication syndrome. These copy number variations disturb a variety of developmental systems and neurological functions. Human mapping data and analyses of knockout mice show that GTF2IRD1 and GTF2I underpin the craniofacial abnormalities, mental retardation, visuospatial deficits and hypersociability of WBS. However, the cellular role of the GTF2IRD1 protein is poorly understood due to its very low abundance and a paucity of reagents. Here, for the first time, we show that endogenous GTF2IRD1 has a punctate pattern in the nuclei of cultured human cell lines and neurons. To probe the functional relationships of GTF2IRD1 in an unbiased manner, yeast two-hybrid libraries were screened, isolating 38 novel interaction partners, which were validated in mammalian cell lines. These relationships illustrate GTF2IRD1 function, as the isolated partners are mostly involved in chromatin modification and transcriptional regulation, whilst others indicate an unexpected role in connection with the primary cilium. Mapping of the sites of protein interaction also indicates key features regarding the evolution of the GTF2IRD1 protein. These data provide a visual and molecular basis for GTF2IRD1 nuclear function that will lead to an understanding of its role in brain, behaviour and human disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paulina Carmona-Mora
- Cellular and Genetic Medicine Unit, School of Medical Sciences, UNSW Australia, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - Jocelyn Widagdo
- Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, 4072, Australia
| | - Florence Tomasetig
- Cellular and Genetic Medicine Unit, School of Medical Sciences, UNSW Australia, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - Cesar P Canales
- Cellular and Genetic Medicine Unit, School of Medical Sciences, UNSW Australia, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - Yeojoon Cha
- Cellular and Genetic Medicine Unit, School of Medical Sciences, UNSW Australia, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - Wei Lee
- Cellular and Genetic Medicine Unit, School of Medical Sciences, UNSW Australia, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - Abdullah Alshawaf
- Centre for Neural Engineering, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, 3010, Australia
| | - Mirella Dottori
- Centre for Neural Engineering, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, 3010, Australia
| | - Renee M Whan
- Biomedical Imaging Facility, Mark Wainwright Analytical Centre, UNSW Australia, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - Edna C Hardeman
- Cellular and Genetic Medicine Unit, School of Medical Sciences, UNSW Australia, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - Stephen J Palmer
- Cellular and Genetic Medicine Unit, School of Medical Sciences, UNSW Australia, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia.
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23
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Li D, Zhang M, Zhang Q, Wang Y, Song X, Zhang Q. Functional recovery after acute intravenous administration of human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells in rats with cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury. Intractable Rare Dis Res 2015; 4:98-104. [PMID: 25984429 PMCID: PMC4428194 DOI: 10.5582/irdr.2015.01010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2015] [Revised: 04/16/2015] [Accepted: 04/22/2015] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Cell therapy is a potential approach for treatment of strokes. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are a potential cell source for clinical use because they are safe and easy to obtain. A peptide solution can promote neural regeneration. Previously, such a solution was stereotactically injected into the brain of rats with cerebral infarction, resulting in improvement in the animal's neurological function and reduction in the infarction volume, but the injury was relatively severe. The current study established a rat model of cerebral ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury. MSCs isolated from Wharton's jelly of human umbilical cords (HUMSCs) were injected intravenously immediately after cerebral I/R injury(3 × 10(6) cells per rat). Twenty-four h and 14 d after surgery, animal behavior was evaluated using the Rogers test and infarct lesion volume was evaluated by 2,3,5-triphenyltetrazolium chloride staining. Fourteen d after surgery, brain tissues were collected at 14 d to study migration/implantation of HUMSCs, cellular proliferation, neural regeneration and astrocyte activation. Compared to cerebral I/R injury alone, HUMSC treatment improved function at 14 d after surgery, with no reduction in infarct volume or migration or implantation of cells into the damaged brain areas. Nevertheless, 14 d after surgery, HUMSC administration increased cellular proliferation and the level of neurofilament 200 level and decreased the level of glial fibrillary acidic protein. After cerebral I/R injury, acute intravenous administration of HUMSCs could promote recovery by activating endogenous neural regeneration and inhibiting astrocyte activation, without migration and implantation directly into lesions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongmei Li
- Department of Neurology, Qingdao Municipal Hospital, Qingdao, Shandong, China
| | - Min Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Qingdao Municipal Hospital, Qingdao, Shandong, China
- Address correspondence to: Dr. Min Zhang, Department of Neurology, Qingdao Municipal Hospital, Qingdao, No.1, Jiaozhou Road, 266011 Qingdao, Shandong, China. E-mail:
| | - Qiuhua Zhang
- Department of Rehabilitation, Shuangshan Hospital of the Zibo Mining Group, Zibo, Shangdong, China
| | - Yue Wang
- Department of Neurology, Qingdao Municipal Hospital, Qingdao, Shandong, China
| | - Xuxia Song
- Department of Neurology, Qingdao Municipal Hospital, Qingdao, Shandong, China
| | - Qiuling Zhang
- Department of Physiology, Taishan Medical College, Taian, Shandong, China
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Thompson LH, Björklund A. Reconstruction of brain circuitry by neural transplants generated from pluripotent stem cells. Neurobiol Dis 2015; 79:28-40. [PMID: 25913029 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2015.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2015] [Revised: 04/09/2015] [Accepted: 04/15/2015] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Pluripotent stem cells (embryonic stem cells, ESCs, and induced pluripotent stem cells, iPSCs) have the capacity to generate neural progenitors that are intrinsically patterned to undergo differentiation into specific neuronal subtypes and express in vivo properties that match the ones formed during normal embryonic development. Remarkable progress has been made in this field during recent years thanks to the development of more refined protocols for the generation of transplantable neuronal progenitors from pluripotent stem cells, and the access to new tools for tracing of neuronal connectivity and assessment of integration and function of grafted neurons. Recent studies in brains of neonatal mice or rats, as well as in rodent models of brain or spinal cord damage, have shown that ESC- or iPSC-derived neural progenitors can be made to survive and differentiate after transplantation, and that they possess a remarkable capacity to extend axons over long distances and become functionally integrated into host neural circuitry. Here, we summarize these recent developments in the perspective of earlier studies using intracerebral and intraspinal transplants of primary neurons derived from fetal brain, with special focus on the ability of human ESC- and iPSC-derived progenitors to reconstruct damaged neural circuitry in cortex, hippocampus, the nigrostriatal system and the spinal cord, and we discuss the intrinsic and extrinsic factors that determine the growth properties of the grafted neurons and their capacity to establish target-specific long-distance axonal connections in the damaged host brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lachlan H Thompson
- Florey Institute for Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Royal Parade, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Anders Björklund
- Wallenberg Neuroscience Center, Department of Experimental Medical Science, Lund University, S-22184 Lund, Sweden.
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Human ESC-derived dopamine neurons show similar preclinical efficacy and potency to fetal neurons when grafted in a rat model of Parkinson's disease. Cell Stem Cell 2014; 15:653-65. [PMID: 25517469 PMCID: PMC4232736 DOI: 10.1016/j.stem.2014.09.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 300] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2014] [Revised: 08/19/2014] [Accepted: 09/24/2014] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Considerable progress has been made in generating fully functional and transplantable dopamine neurons from human embryonic stem cells (hESCs). Before these cells can be used for cell replacement therapy in Parkinson’s disease (PD), it is important to verify their functional properties and efficacy in animal models. Here we provide a comprehensive preclinical assessment of hESC-derived midbrain dopamine neurons in a rat model of PD. We show long-term survival and functionality using clinically relevant MRI and PET imaging techniques and demonstrate efficacy in restoration of motor function with a potency comparable to that seen with human fetal dopamine neurons. Furthermore, we show that hESC-derived dopamine neurons can project sufficiently long distances for use in humans, fully regenerate midbrain-to-forebrain projections, and innervate correct target structures. This provides strong preclinical support for clinical translation of hESC-derived dopamine neurons using approaches similar to those established with fetal cells for the treatment of Parkinson’s disease. Transplants of hESC-DA survive long term and restore DA neurotransmission in vivo The functional potency of hESC-DA is similar to human fetal midbrain DA neurons hESC-DA are capable of long-distance, target-specific innervation of the host brain The axonal outgrowth capacity of hESC-DA meets the requirements for use in humans
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Ding P, Yang Z, Wang W, Wang J, Xue L. Transplantation of bone marrow stromal cells enhances infiltration and survival of CNP and Schwann cells to promote axonal sprouting following complete transection of spinal cord in adult rats. Am J Transl Res 2014; 6:224-235. [PMID: 24936216 PMCID: PMC4058305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2014] [Accepted: 03/21/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the roles of bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs) in promoting axonal regeneration after complete transection of spinal cord in adult rats. Transplantation was done 9 days after injury. Only a few BMSCs were detected at the injury site 8 weeks after transplantation, yet there was robust growth of axons. The scarcity of surviving BMSCs may attribute to the adverse conditions in their ambient environment. In this connection, the immediate accumulation of a large number of macrophages/reactive microglia following BMSCs transplantation and subsequent cavitation of tissues may be detrimental to their survival. An unexpected finding following BMSCs transplantation was the marked increase in the nestin, GFAP, NF200, olig 3 and CNP positive cells at the injury site. Immunoelectron microscopy showed CNP cells were oval or fibroblast-like and had multiple perineurial-like compartments with long extending filopodia. The spatial relationship between regenerating axons and CNP-positive cells was also confirmed by double immunofluorescence staining. Our results suggest that transplantation of BMSCs elicits the influx and survival of local cells including CNP positive cells and Schwann cells into injury site, which provide structural support for the axon regeneration and remyelination after spinal cord injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Ding
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University295 Xichang Rd, Kunming 650032, China
| | - Zhiyong Yang
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University295 Xichang Rd, Kunming 650032, China
| | - Weimin Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University295 Xichang Rd, Kunming 650032, China
| | - Jinkun Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University295 Xichang Rd, Kunming 650032, China
| | - Liping Xue
- Department of Ophthalmology, Yunnan NO.2 Provincial People’s Hospital176 Qingnian Rd, Kunming 650021, China
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27
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Mattis VB, Wakeman DR, Tom C, Dodiya HB, Yeung SY, Tran AH, Bernau K, Ornelas L, Sahabian A, Reidling J, Sareen D, Thompson LM, Kordower JH, Svendsen CN. Neonatal immune-tolerance in mice does not prevent xenograft rejection. Exp Neurol 2014; 254:90-8. [PMID: 24440640 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2014.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2013] [Revised: 01/03/2014] [Accepted: 01/07/2014] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Assessing the efficacy of human stem cell transplantation in rodent models is complicated by the significant immune rejection that occurs. Two recent reports have shown conflicting results using neonatal tolerance to xenografts in rats. Here we extend this approach to mice and assess whether neonatal tolerance can prevent the rapid rejection of xenografts. In three strains of neonatal immune-intact mice, using two different brain transplant regimes and three independent stem cell types, we conclusively show that there is rapid rejection of the implanted cells. We also address specific challenges associated with the generation of humanized mouse models of disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Virginia B Mattis
- Regenerative Medicine Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | | | - Colton Tom
- Regenerative Medicine Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | | | | | | | | | - Loren Ornelas
- Regenerative Medicine Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Anais Sahabian
- Regenerative Medicine Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | | | - Dhruv Sareen
- Regenerative Medicine Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | | | | | - Clive N Svendsen
- Regenerative Medicine Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
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28
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Antonic A, Sena ES, Lees JS, Wills TE, Skeers P, Batchelor PE, Macleod MR, Howells DW. Stem cell transplantation in traumatic spinal cord injury: a systematic review and meta-analysis of animal studies. PLoS Biol 2013; 11:e1001738. [PMID: 24358022 PMCID: PMC3866091 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pbio.1001738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2012] [Accepted: 11/01/2013] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a devastating condition that causes substantial morbidity and mortality and for which no treatments are available. Stem cells offer some promise in the restoration of neurological function. We used systematic review, meta-analysis, and meta-regression to study the impact of stem cell biology and experimental design on motor and sensory outcomes following stem cell treatments in animal models of SCI. One hundred and fifty-six publications using 45 different stem cell preparations met our prespecified inclusion criteria. Only one publication used autologous stem cells. Overall, allogeneic stem cell treatment appears to improve both motor (effect size, 27.2%; 95% Confidence Interval [CI], 25.0%-29.4%; 312 comparisons in 5,628 animals) and sensory (effect size, 26.3%; 95% CI, 7.9%-44.7%; 23 comparisons in 473 animals) outcome. For sensory outcome, most heterogeneity between experiments was accounted for by facets of stem cell biology. Differentiation before implantation and intravenous route of delivery favoured better outcome. Stem cell implantation did not appear to improve sensory outcome in female animals and appeared to be enhanced by isoflurane anaesthesia. Biological plausibility was supported by the presence of a dose-response relationship. For motor outcome, facets of stem cell biology had little detectable effect. Instead most heterogeneity could be explained by the experimental modelling and the outcome measure used. The location of injury, method of injury induction, and presence of immunosuppression all had an impact. Reporting of measures to reduce bias was higher than has been seen in other neuroscience domains but were still suboptimal. Motor outcomes studies that did not report the blinded assessment of outcome gave inflated estimates of efficacy. Extensive recent preclinical literature suggests that stem-cell-based therapies may offer promise, however the impact of compromised internal validity and publication bias mean that efficacy is likely to be somewhat lower than reported here.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Antonic
- Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne Lance Townsend Building, Austin Hospital, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia
| | - Emily S. Sena
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Victoria, Australia
- Division of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Edinburgh, Western General Hospital, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Jennifer S. Lees
- Division of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Edinburgh, Western General Hospital, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Taryn E. Wills
- Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne Lance Townsend Building, Austin Hospital, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Victoria, Australia
| | - Peta Skeers
- Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne Lance Townsend Building, Austin Hospital, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia
| | - Peter E. Batchelor
- Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne Lance Townsend Building, Austin Hospital, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Victoria, Australia
| | - Malcolm R. Macleod
- Division of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Edinburgh, Western General Hospital, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - David W. Howells
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Victoria, Australia
- * E-mail:
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Shinoyama M, Ideguchi M, Kida H, Kajiwara K, Kagawa Y, Maeda Y, Nomura S, Suzuki M. Cortical region-specific engraftment of embryonic stem cell-derived neural progenitor cells restores axonal sprouting to a subcortical target and achieves motor functional recovery in a mouse model of neonatal hypoxic-ischemic brain injury. Front Cell Neurosci 2013; 7:128. [PMID: 23970853 PMCID: PMC3748369 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2013.00128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2013] [Accepted: 07/25/2013] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) at birth could cause cerebral palsy (CP), mental retardation, and epilepsy, which last throughout the individual's lifetime. However, few restorative treatments for ischemic tissue are currently available. Cell replacement therapy offers the potential to rescue brain damage caused by HI and to restore motor function. In the present study, we evaluated the ability of embryonic stem cell-derived neural progenitor cells (ES-NPCs) to become cortical deep layer neurons, to restore the neural network, and to repair brain damage in an HIE mouse model. ES cells stably expressing the reporter gene GFP are induced to a neural precursor state by stromal cell co-culture. Forty-hours after the induction of HIE, animals were grafted with ES-NPCs targeting the deep layer of the motor cortex in the ischemic brain. Motor function was evaluated 3 weeks after transplantation. Immunohistochemistry and neuroanatomical tracing with GFP were used to analyze neuronal differentiation and axonal sprouting. ES-NPCs could differentiate to cortical neurons with pyramidal morphology and expressed the deep layer-specific marker, Ctip2. The graft showed good survival and an appropriate innervation pattern via axonal sprouting from engrafted cells in the ischemic brain. The motor functions of the transplanted HIE mice also improved significantly compared to the sham-transplanted group. These findings suggest that cortical region specific engraftment of preconditioned cortical precursor cells could support motor functional recovery in the HIE model. It is not clear whether this is a direct effect of the engrafted cells or due to neurotrophic factors produced by these cells. These results suggest that cortical region-specific NPC engraftment is a promising therapeutic approach for brain repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mizuya Shinoyama
- Department of Neurosurgery, Yamaguchi University School of Medicine Ube, Japan
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Perdomini M, Hick A, Puccio H, Pook MA. Animal and cellular models of Friedreich ataxia. J Neurochem 2013; 126 Suppl 1:65-79. [PMID: 23859342 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.12219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2012] [Revised: 02/01/2013] [Accepted: 02/04/2013] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The development and use of animal and cellular models of Friedreich ataxia (FRDA) are essential requirements for the understanding of FRDA disease mechanisms and the investigation of potential FRDA therapeutic strategies. Although animal and cellular models of lower organisms have provided valuable information on certain aspects of FRDA disease and therapy, it is intuitive that the most useful models are those of mammals and mammalian cells, which are the closest in physiological terms to FRDA patients. To date, there have been considerable efforts put into the development of several different FRDA mouse models and relevant FRDA mouse and human cell line systems. We summarize the principal mammalian FRDA models, discuss the pros and cons of each system, and describe the ways in which such models have been used to address two of the fundamental, as yet unanswered, questions regarding FRDA. Namely, what is the exact pathophysiology of FRDA and what is the detailed genetic and epigenetic basis of FRDA?
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Affiliation(s)
- Morgane Perdomini
- Translational Medecine and Neurogenetics, IGBMC-Institut de Génétique et de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire, Illkirch, France
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Jaber M, Gaillard A. Cell transplantation: relevance in understanding brain development and prospects in brain repair. Front Cell Neurosci 2012. [PMID: 23189040 PMCID: PMC3504934 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2012.00056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Jaber
- Experimental and Clinical Neurosciences Laboratory, INSERM U1084, University of Poitiers Poitiers, France
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32
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Kauhausen J, Thompson LH, Parish CL. Cell intrinsic and extrinsic factors contribute to enhance neural circuit reconstruction following transplantation in Parkinsonian mice. J Physiol 2012; 591:77-91. [PMID: 23045338 DOI: 10.1113/jphysiol.2012.243063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Cell replacement therapy for Parkinson's disease has predominantly focused on ectopic transplantation of fetal dopamine (DA) neurons into the striatum as a means to restore neurotransmission, rather than homotopic grafts into the site of cell loss, which would require extensive axonal growth. However, ectopic grafts fail to restore important aspects of DA circuitry necessary for controlled basal ganglia output, and this may underlie the suboptimal and variable functional outcomes in patients. We recently showed that DA neurons in homotopic allografts of embryonic ventral mesencephalon (VM) can send long axonal projections along the nigrostriatal pathway in order to innervate forebrain targets, although the extent of striatal reinnervation remains substantially less than can be achieved with ectopic placement directly into the striatal target. Here, we examined the possible benefits of using younger VM donor tissue and over-expression of glial cell-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) in the striatal target to improve the degree of striatal innervation from homotopic grafts. Younger donor tissue, collected on embryonic day (E)10, generated 4-fold larger grafts with greater striatal targeting, compared to grafts generated from more conventional E12 donor VM. Over-expression of GDNF in the host brain also significantly increased DA axonal growth and striatal innervation. Furthermore, a notable increase in the number and proportion of A9 DA neurons, essential for functional recovery, was observed in younger donor grafts treated with GDNF. Behavioural testing confirmed functional integration of younger donor tissue and demonstrated that improved motor function could be attributed to both local midbrain and striatal innervation. Together, these findings suggest there is significant scope for further development of intra-nigral grafting as a restorative approach for Parkinson's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Kauhausen
- The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
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Abstract
Both embryonic and adult neurogenesis involves the self-renewal/proliferation, survival, migration and lineage differentiation of neural stem/progenitor cells. Such dynamic process is tightly regulated by intrinsic and extrinsic factors and complex signaling pathways. Misregulated neurogenesis contributes much to a large range of neurodevelopmental defects and neurodegenerative diseases. The signaling of NFκB regulates many genes important in inflammation, immunity, cell survival and neural plasticity. During neurogenesis, NFκB signaling mediates the effect of numerous niche factors such as cytokines, chemokines, growth factors, extracellular matrix molecules, but also crosstalks with other signaling pathways such as Notch, Shh, Wnt/β-catenin. This review summarizes current progress on the NFκB signaling in all aspects of neurogenesis, focusing on the novel role of NFκB signaling in initiating early neural differentiation of neural stem cells and embryonic stem cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yonggang Zhang
- Department of Neuroscience, Temple University School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA
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Gincberg G, Arien-Zakay H, Lazarovici P, Lelkes PI. Neural stem cells: therapeutic potential for neurodegenerative diseases. Br Med Bull 2012; 104:7-19. [PMID: 22988303 DOI: 10.1093/bmb/lds024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Neural stem cells (NSCs) from specific brain areas or developed from progenitors of different sources are of therapeutic potential for neurodegenerative diseases. SOURCES OF DATA Treatment strategies involve the (i) transplantation of exogenous NSCs; (ii) pharmacological modulations of endogenous NSCs and (iii) modulation of endogenous NSCs via the transplantation of exogenous NSCs. AREAS OF AGREEMENT There is a consensus about the therapeutic potential of transplanted NSCs. The ability of NSCs to home into areas of central nervous system injury allows their delivery by intravenous injection. There is also a general agreement about the neuroprotective mechanisms of NSCs involving a 'bystander effect'. AREAS OF CONTROVERSY Individual laboratories may be using phenotypically diverse NSCs, since these cells have been differentiated by a variety of neurotrophins and/or cultured on different ECM proteins, therefore differing in the expression of neuronal markers. GROWING POINTS Optimization of the dose, delivery route, timing of administration of NSCs, their interactions with the immune system and combination therapies in conjunction with tissue engineered neural prostheses are under investigation. AREAS TIMELY FOR DEVELOPING RESEARCH In-depth understanding of the biological properties of NSCs, including mechanisms of therapy, safety, efficacy and elimination from the organism. These areas are central for further use in cell therapy. CAUTIONARY NOTE: As long as critical safety and efficacy issues are not resolved, we need to be careful in translating NSC therapy from animal models to patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Galit Gincberg
- The School of Pharmacy Institute for Drug Research, Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
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