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Bonthron C, Burley S, Broadhead MJ, Metodieva V, Grant SGN, Chandran S, Miles GB. Excitatory to inhibitory synaptic ratios are unchanged at presymptomatic stages in multiple models of ALS. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0306423. [PMID: 39088455 PMCID: PMC11293752 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0306423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 08/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Hyperexcitability of motor neurons and spinal cord motor circuitry has been widely reported in the early stages of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). Changes in the relative amount of excitatory to inhibitory inputs onto a neuron (E:I synaptic ratio), possibly through a developmental shift in synapse formation in favour of excitatory transmission, could underlie pathological hyperexcitability. Given that astrocytes play a major role in early synaptogenesis and are implicated in ALS pathogenesis, their potential contribution to disease mechanisms involving synaptic imbalances and subsequent hyperexcitability is also of great interest. In order to assess E:I ratios in ALS, we utilised a novel primary spinal neuron / astrocyte co-culture system, derived from neonatal mice, in which synapses are formed in vitro. Using multiple ALS mouse models we found that no combination of astrocyte or neuron genotype produced alterations in E:I synaptic ratios assessed using pre- and post-synaptic anatomical markers. Similarly, we observed that ephrin-B1, a major contact-dependent astrocytic synaptogenic protein, was not differentially expressed by ALS primary astrocytes. Further to this, analysis of E:I ratios across the entire grey matter of the lumbar spinal cord in young (post-natal day 16-19) ALS mice revealed no differences versus controls. Finally, analysis in co-cultures of human iPSC-derived motor neurons and astrocytes harbouring the pathogenic C9orf72 hexanucleotide repeat expansion showed no evidence of a bias toward excitatory versus inhibitory synapse formation. We therefore conclude, utilising multiple ALS models, that we do not observe significant changes in the relative abundance of excitatory versus inhibitory synapses as would be expected if imbalances in synaptic inputs contribute to early hyperexcitability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Calum Bonthron
- School of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, United Kingdom
| | - Sarah Burley
- School of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, United Kingdom
- School of Biology, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, United Kingdom
| | - Matthew J. Broadhead
- School of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, United Kingdom
| | - Vanya Metodieva
- School of Biology, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, United Kingdom
- Centre of Biophotonics, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, United Kingdom
| | - Seth G. N. Grant
- Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- Simons Initiative for the Developing Brain (SIDB), Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Siddharthan Chandran
- Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- Simons Initiative for the Developing Brain (SIDB), Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- UK Dementia Research Institute, Edinburgh Medical School, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- Patrick Wild Centre, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Gareth B. Miles
- School of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, United Kingdom
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2
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Kok M, Brodsky JL. The biogenesis of potassium transporters: implications of disease-associated mutations. Crit Rev Biochem Mol Biol 2024:1-45. [PMID: 38946646 DOI: 10.1080/10409238.2024.2369986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2024] [Accepted: 06/16/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024]
Abstract
The concentration of intracellular and extracellular potassium is tightly regulated due to the action of various ion transporters, channels, and pumps, which reside primarily in the kidney. Yet, potassium transporters and cotransporters play vital roles in all organs and cell types. Perhaps not surprisingly, defects in the biogenesis, function, and/or regulation of these proteins are linked to range of catastrophic human diseases, but to date, few drugs have been approved to treat these maladies. In this review, we discuss the structure, function, and activity of a group of potassium-chloride cotransporters, the KCCs, as well as the related sodium-potassium-chloride cotransporters, the NKCCs. Diseases associated with each of the four KCCs and two NKCCs are also discussed. Particular emphasis is placed on how these complex membrane proteins fold and mature in the endoplasmic reticulum, how non-native forms of the cotransporters are destroyed in the cell, and which cellular factors oversee their maturation and transport to the cell surface. When known, we also outline how the levels and activities of each cotransporter are regulated. Open questions in the field and avenues for future investigations are further outlined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Morgan Kok
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Jeffrey L Brodsky
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
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3
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Kerzonkuf M, Verneuil J, Brocard C, Dingu N, Trouplin V, Ramirez Franco JJ, Bartoli M, Brocard F, Bras H. Knockdown of calpain1 in lumbar motoneurons reduces spasticity after spinal cord injury in adult rats. Mol Ther 2024; 32:1096-1109. [PMID: 38291756 PMCID: PMC11163198 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2024.01.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2023] [Revised: 12/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Spasticity, affecting ∼75% of patients with spinal cord injury (SCI), leads to hyperreflexia, muscle spasms, and cocontractions of antagonist muscles, greatly affecting their quality of life. Spasticity primarily stems from the hyperexcitability of motoneurons below the lesion, driven by an upregulation of the persistent sodium current and a downregulation of chloride extrusion. This imbalance results from the post-SCI activation of calpain1, which cleaves Nav1.6 channels and KCC2 cotransporters. Our study was focused on mitigating spasticity by specifically targeting calpain1 in spinal motoneurons. We successfully transduced lumbar motoneurons in adult rats with SCI using intrathecal administration of adeno-associated virus vector serotype 6, carrying a shRNA sequence against calpain1. This approach significantly reduced calpain1 expression in transduced motoneurons, leading to a noticeable decrease in spasticity symptoms, including hyperreflexia, muscle spasms, and cocontractions in hindlimb muscles, which are particularly evident in the second month post-SCI. In addition, this decrease, which prevented the escalation of spasticity to a severe grade, paralleled the restoration of KCC2 levels in transduced motoneurons, suggesting a reduced proteolytic activity of calpain1. These findings demonstrate that inhibiting calpain1 in motoneurons is a promising strategy for alleviating spasticity in SCI patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marjorie Kerzonkuf
- Institut des Neurosciences de la Timone (UMR7289), Aix-Marseille Université and CNRS, Marseille, France
| | - Jérémy Verneuil
- Institut des Neurosciences de la Timone (UMR7289), Aix-Marseille Université and CNRS, Marseille, France
| | - Cécile Brocard
- Institut des Neurosciences de la Timone (UMR7289), Aix-Marseille Université and CNRS, Marseille, France
| | - Nejada Dingu
- Institut des Neurosciences de la Timone (UMR7289), Aix-Marseille Université and CNRS, Marseille, France
| | - Virginie Trouplin
- Institut des Neurosciences de la Timone (UMR7289), Aix-Marseille Université and CNRS, Marseille, France
| | - Jose Jorge Ramirez Franco
- Institut des Neurosciences de la Timone (UMR7289), Aix-Marseille Université and CNRS, Marseille, France
| | - Marc Bartoli
- Institut Marseille Maladies Rares (MarMaRa), Aix-Marseille Université and INSERM, Marseille, France
| | - Frédéric Brocard
- Institut des Neurosciences de la Timone (UMR7289), Aix-Marseille Université and CNRS, Marseille, France.
| | - Hélène Bras
- Institut des Neurosciences de la Timone (UMR7289), Aix-Marseille Université and CNRS, Marseille, France.
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4
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Cheung DL, Toda T, Narushima M, Eto K, Takayama C, Ooba T, Wake H, Moorhouse AJ, Nabekura J. KCC2 downregulation after sciatic nerve injury enhances motor function recovery. Sci Rep 2023; 13:7871. [PMID: 37188694 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-34701-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2022] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Injury to mature neurons induces downregulated KCC2 expression and activity, resulting in elevated intracellular [Cl-] and depolarized GABAergic signaling. This phenotype mirrors immature neurons wherein GABA-evoked depolarizations facilitate neuronal circuit maturation. Thus, injury-induced KCC2 downregulation is broadly speculated to similarly facilitate neuronal circuit repair. We test this hypothesis in spinal cord motoneurons injured by sciatic nerve crush, using transgenic (CaMKII-KCC2) mice wherein conditional CaMKIIα promoter-KCC2 expression coupling selectively prevents injury-induced KCC2 downregulation. We demonstrate, via an accelerating rotarod assay, impaired motor function recovery in CaMKII-KCC2 mice relative to wild-type mice. Across both cohorts, we observe similar motoneuron survival and re-innervation rates, but differing post-injury reorganization patterns of synaptic input to motoneuron somas-for wild-type, both VGLUT1-positive (excitatory) and GAD67-positive (inhibitory) terminal counts decrease; for CaMKII-KCC2, only VGLUT1-positive terminal counts decrease. Finally, we recapitulate the impaired motor function recovery of CaMKII-KCC2 mice in wild-type mice by administering local spinal cord injections of bicuculline (GABAA receptor blockade) or bumetanide (lowers intracellular [Cl-] by NKCC1 blockade) during the early post-injury period. Thus, our results provide direct evidence that injury-induced KCC2 downregulation enhances motor function recovery and suggest an underlying mechanism of depolarizing GABAergic signaling driving adaptive reconfiguration of presynaptic GABAergic input.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dennis Lawrence Cheung
- Division of Homeostatic Development, National Institute for Physiological Sciences, Okazaki, Aichi, Japan
| | - Takuya Toda
- Division of Homeostatic Development, National Institute for Physiological Sciences, Okazaki, Aichi, Japan
| | - Madoka Narushima
- Division of Homeostatic Development, National Institute for Physiological Sciences, Okazaki, Aichi, Japan
| | - Kei Eto
- Division of Homeostatic Development, National Institute for Physiological Sciences, Okazaki, Aichi, Japan
- Department of Physiology, School of Allied Health Sciences, Kitasato University, Sagamihara, Kanagawa, Japan
| | | | - Tatsuko Ooba
- Division of Homeostatic Development, National Institute for Physiological Sciences, Okazaki, Aichi, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Wake
- Division of Multicellular Circuit Dynamics, National Institute for Physiological Sciences, Okazaki, Aichi, Japan
- Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Aichi, Japan
| | - Andrew John Moorhouse
- School of Biomedical Sciences, UNSW Sydney (The University of New South Wales), Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Junichi Nabekura
- Division of Homeostatic Development, National Institute for Physiological Sciences, Okazaki, Aichi, Japan.
- Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Aichi, Japan.
- School of Life Science, SOKENDAI (The Graduate University for Advanced Studies), Okazaki, Aichi, Japan.
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5
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Pajer K, Bellák T, Grósz T, Nógrádi B, Patai R, Sinkó J, Vinay L, Liabeuf S, Erdélyi M, Nógrádi A. Riluzole treatment modulates KCC2 and EAAT-2 receptor expression and Ca 2+ accumulation following ventral root avulsion injury. Eur J Cell Biol 2023; 102:151317. [PMID: 37099936 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejcb.2023.151317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Revised: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 04/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Avulsion injury results in motoneuron death due to the increased excitotoxicity developing in the affected spinal segments. This study focused on possible short and long term molecular and receptor expression alterations which are thought to be linked to the excitotoxic events in the ventral horn with or without the anti-excitotoxic riluzole treatment. In our experimental model the left lumbar 4 and 5 (L4, 5) ventral roots of the spinal cord were avulsed. Treated animals received riluzole for 2 weeks. Riluzole is a compound that acts to block voltage-activated Na+ and Ca2+ channels. In control animals the L4, 5 ventral roots were avulsed without riluzole treatment. Expression of astrocytic EAAT-2 and that of KCC2 in motoneurons on the affected side of the L4 spinal segment were detected after the injury by confocal and dSTORM imaging, intracellular Ca2+ levels in motoneurons were quantified by electron microscopy. The KCC2 labeling in the lateral and ventrolateral parts of the L4 ventral horn was weaker compared with the medial part of L4 ventral horn in both groups. Riluzole treatment dramatically enhanced motoneuron survival but was not able to prevent the down-regulation of KCC2 expression in injured motoneurons. In contrast, riluzole successfully obviated the increase of intracellular calcium level and the decrease of EAAT-2 expression in astrocytes compared with untreated injured animals. We conclude that KCC2 may not be an essential component for survival of injured motoneurons and riluzole is able to modulate the intracellular level of calcium and expression of EAAT-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krisztián Pajer
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Albert Szent-Györgyi Medical School, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Tamás Bellák
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Albert Szent-Györgyi Medical School, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Tímea Grósz
- Department of Optics and Quantum Electronics, Faculty of Science and Informatics, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Bernát Nógrádi
- Institute of Biophysics, Biological Research Centre, Szeged, Hungary; Department of Neurology, Albert Szent-Györgyi Health Center, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Roland Patai
- Institute of Biophysics, Biological Research Centre, Szeged, Hungary
| | - József Sinkó
- Department of Optics and Quantum Electronics, Faculty of Science and Informatics, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Laurent Vinay
- Institut de Neurosciences de la Timone, UMR 7289, CNRS and Aix Marseille Université, Campus Santé Timone, 13385 Marseille, France
| | - Sylvie Liabeuf
- Institut de Neurosciences de la Timone, UMR 7289, CNRS and Aix Marseille Université, Campus Santé Timone, 13385 Marseille, France
| | - Miklós Erdélyi
- Department of Optics and Quantum Electronics, Faculty of Science and Informatics, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Antal Nógrádi
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Albert Szent-Györgyi Medical School, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary.
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6
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Yang L, Cheng Y, Zhu Y, Cui L, Li X. The Serotonergic System and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: A Review of Current Evidence. Cell Mol Neurobiol 2023:10.1007/s10571-023-01320-0. [PMID: 36729314 DOI: 10.1007/s10571-023-01320-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the premature death of motor neurons. Serotonin (5-HT) is a crucial neurotransmitter, and its dysfunction, whether as a contributor or by-product, has been implicated in ALS pathogenesis. Here, we summarize current evidence linking serotonergic alterations to ALS, including results from post-mortem and neuroimaging studies, biofluid testing, and studies of ALS animal models. We also discuss the possible role of 5-HT in modulating some important mechanisms of ALS (i.e. glutamate excitotoxity and neuroinflammation) and in regulating ALS phenotypes (i.e. breathing dysfunction and metabolic defects). Finally, we discuss the promise and limitations of the serotonergic system as a target for the development of ALS biomarkers and therapeutic approaches. However, due to a relative paucity of data and standardized methodologies in previous studies, proper interpretation of existing results remains a challenge. Future research is needed to unravel the mechanisms linking serotonergic pathways and ALS and to provide valid, reproducible, and translatable findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Yang
- Department of Neurology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital (PUMCH), The Transformation Medical Center of PUMC, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College (CAMS & PUMC), Beijing, 100005, China
| | - Yanfei Cheng
- Department of Neurology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital (PUMCH), The Transformation Medical Center of PUMC, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College (CAMS & PUMC), Beijing, 100005, China
| | - Yicheng Zhu
- Department of Neurology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital (PUMCH), The Transformation Medical Center of PUMC, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College (CAMS & PUMC), Beijing, 100005, China.,Neuroscience Center, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College (CAMS & PUMC), Beijing, China
| | - Liying Cui
- Department of Neurology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital (PUMCH), The Transformation Medical Center of PUMC, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College (CAMS & PUMC), Beijing, 100005, China.,Neuroscience Center, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College (CAMS & PUMC), Beijing, China
| | - Xiaoguang Li
- Department of Neurology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital (PUMCH), The Transformation Medical Center of PUMC, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College (CAMS & PUMC), Beijing, 100005, China. .,Neuroscience Center, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College (CAMS & PUMC), Beijing, China.
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7
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Cotinat M, Boquet I, Ursino M, Brocard C, Jouve E, Alberti C, Bensoussan L, Viton JM, Brocard F, Blin O. Riluzole for treating spasticity in patients with chronic traumatic spinal cord injury: Study protocol in the phase ib/iib adaptive multicenter randomized controlled RILUSCI trial. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0276892. [PMID: 36662869 PMCID: PMC9858801 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0276892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 10/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Satisfactory treatment is often lacking for spasticity, a highly prevalent motor disorder in patients with spinal cord injury (SCI). Low concentrations of riluzole potently reduce the persistent sodium current, the post-SCI increase in which contributes to spasticity. The repurposing of this drug may therefore constitute a useful potential therapeutic option for relieving SCI patients suffering from chronic traumatic spasticity. OBJECTIVE RILUSCI is a phase 1b-2b trial designed to assess whether riluzole is a safe and biologically effective means of managing spasticity in adult patients with traumatic chronic SCI. METHODS In this multicenter double-blind trial, adults (aged 18-65 years) suffering from spasticity after SCI (target enrollment: 90 participants) will be randomly assigned to be given either a placebo or a recommended daily oral dose of riluzole for two weeks. The latter dose will be previously determined in phase 1b of the study by performing double-blind dose-finding tests using a Bayesian continuous reassessment method. The primary endpoint of the trial will be an improvement in the Modified Ashworth Score (MAS) or the Numerical Rating Score (NRS) quantifying spasticity. The secondary outcomes will be based on the safety and pharmacokinetics of riluzole as well as its impact on muscle spasms, pain, bladder dysfunction and quality of life. Analyses will be performed before, during and after the treatment and the placebo-controlled period. CONCLUSION To the best of our knowledge, this clinical trial will be the first to document the safety and efficacy of riluzole as a means of reducing spasticity in patients with chronic SCI. TRIAL REGISTRATION The clinical trial, which is already in progress, was registered on the ClinicalTrials.gov website on August 9, 2016 under the registration number NCT02859792. TRIAL SPONSOR Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Marseille.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maëva Cotinat
- Institut de Neurosciences de la Timone (UMR7289), Aix-Marseille Université and CNRS, Marseille, France
- Department of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine, Sainte Marguerite University Hospital, APHM, Marseille, France
| | - Isabelle Boquet
- Institut de Neurosciences de la Timone (UMR7289), Aix-Marseille Université and CNRS, Marseille, France
| | - Moreno Ursino
- Unit of Clinical Epidemiology, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Robert Debré, FCRIN PARTNERS Platform, Université de Paris, Sorbonne Paris-Cité, INSERM U1123 and CIC-EC 1426, Paris, France
- Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, INSERM, Sorbonne Université, USPC, Université de Paris, F-75006 Paris, France
- Inria, Paris, France
| | - Cécile Brocard
- Institut de Neurosciences de la Timone (UMR7289), Aix-Marseille Université and CNRS, Marseille, France
| | - Elisabeth Jouve
- Aix Marseille University, APHM, INSERM, Inst Neurosci Syst, UMR1106, Service de Pharmacologie Clinique et Pharmacovigilance, Marseille, France
| | - Corinne Alberti
- Unit of Clinical Epidemiology, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Robert Debré, FCRIN PARTNERS Platform, Université de Paris, Sorbonne Paris-Cité, INSERM U1123 and CIC-EC 1426, Paris, France
| | - Laurent Bensoussan
- Institut de Neurosciences de la Timone (UMR7289), Aix-Marseille Université and CNRS, Marseille, France
- Institut Universitaire de Réadaptation de Valmante Sud, UGECAM, Marseille, France
| | - Jean-Michel Viton
- Institut de Neurosciences de la Timone (UMR7289), Aix-Marseille Université and CNRS, Marseille, France
- Department of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine, Sainte Marguerite University Hospital, APHM, Marseille, France
| | - Frédéric Brocard
- Institut de Neurosciences de la Timone (UMR7289), Aix-Marseille Université and CNRS, Marseille, France
| | - Olivier Blin
- Aix Marseille University, APHM, INSERM, Inst Neurosci Syst, UMR1106, Service de Pharmacologie Clinique et Pharmacovigilance, Marseille, France
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Hudson KE, Grau JW. Ionic Plasticity: Common Mechanistic Underpinnings of Pathology in Spinal Cord Injury and the Brain. Cells 2022; 11:2910. [PMID: 36139484 PMCID: PMC9496934 DOI: 10.3390/cells11182910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2022] [Revised: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The neurotransmitter GABA is normally characterized as having an inhibitory effect on neural activity in the adult central nervous system (CNS), which quells over-excitation and limits neural plasticity. Spinal cord injury (SCI) can bring about a modification that weakens the inhibitory effect of GABA in the central gray caudal to injury. This change is linked to the downregulation of the potassium/chloride cotransporter (KCC2) and the consequent rise in intracellular Cl- in the postsynaptic neuron. As the intracellular concentration increases, the inward flow of Cl- through an ionotropic GABA-A receptor is reduced, which decreases its hyperpolarizing (inhibitory) effect, a modulatory effect known as ionic plasticity. The loss of GABA-dependent inhibition enables a state of over-excitation within the spinal cord that fosters aberrant motor activity (spasticity) and chronic pain. A downregulation of KCC2 also contributes to the development of a number of brain-dependent pathologies linked to states of neural over-excitation, including epilepsy, addiction, and developmental disorders, along with other diseases such as hypertension, asthma, and irritable bowel syndrome. Pharmacological treatments that target ionic plasticity have been shown to bring therapeutic benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelsey E. Hudson
- Neuroscience, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - James W. Grau
- Psychological & Brain Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
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9
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Branchereau P, Cattaert D. Chloride Homeostasis in Developing Motoneurons. ADVANCES IN NEUROBIOLOGY 2022; 28:45-61. [PMID: 36066820 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-07167-6_2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Maturation of GABA/Glycine chloride-mediated synaptic inhibitions is crucial for the establishment of a balance between excitation and inhibition. GABA and glycine are excitatory neurotransmitters on immature neurons that exhibit elevated [Cl-]i. Later in development [Cl-]i drops leading to the occurrence of inhibitory synaptic activity. This ontogenic change is closely correlated to a differential expression of two cation-chloride cotransporters that are the Cl- channel K+/Cl- co-transporter type 2 (KCC2) that extrudes Cl- ions and the Na+-K+-2Cl- cotransporter NKCC1 that accumulates Cl- ions. The classical scheme built from studies performed on cortical and hippocampal networks proposes that immature neurons display high [Cl-]i because NKCC1 is overexpressed compared to KCC2 and that the co-transporters ratio reverses in mature neurons, lowering [Cl-]i. In this chapter, we will see that this classical scheme is not true in motoneurons (MNs) and that an early alteration of the chloride homeostasis may be involved in pathological conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pascal Branchereau
- Institut de Neurosciences Cognitives et Intégratives d'Aquitaine (INCIA), Univ. Bordeaux, UMR 5287, CNRS, Bordeaux, France.
| | - Daniel Cattaert
- Institut de Neurosciences Cognitives et Intégratives d'Aquitaine (INCIA), Univ. Bordeaux, UMR 5287, CNRS, Bordeaux, France
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10
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Zhou X, Wang Z, Lin Z, Zhu Y, Zhu D, Xie C, Calcutt NA, Guan Y. Rate-dependent depression is impaired in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Neurol Sci 2021; 43:1831-1838. [PMID: 34518934 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-021-05596-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2021] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We investigated rate-dependent depression (RDD) of the Hoffman reflex (H-reflex) in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a degenerative disease with ventral horn involvement. PATIENTS AND METHODS In this case-control study, we enrolled 27 patients with ALS and 30 matched healthy control subjects. Clinical and electrophysiological assessments, as well as RDD in response to various stimulation frequencies (0.5 Hz, 1 Hz, 3 Hz and 5 Hz), were compared between groups. Multiple clinical and electrophysiological factors were also explored to determine any underlying associations with RDD. RESULTS The ALS group showed a significant loss of RDD across all frequencies compared to the control group, most notably following 1 Hz stimulation (19.1 ± 20.3 vs. 34.0 ± 13.7%, p = 0.003). Among factors that might influence RDD, the enlargement of the motor unit potential (MUP) showed a significant relationship with RDD following multifactor analysis of variance (p = 0.007) and Pearson correlation analysis (ρ = - 0.70, p < 0.001), while various upper motor neuron manifestations were not correlated with RDD values (p > 0.05). CONCLUSION We report a loss of RDD in patients with ALS. The strong correlation detected between the RDD deficit and increased MUP suggests that RDD is a sensitive indicator of underlying spinal disinhibition in ALS. TRIAL REGISTRATION ChiCTR2000038848, 10/7/2020 (retrospectively registered), http://www.chictr.org.cn/ .
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiajun Zhou
- Department of Neurology, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, 160 Pujian Road, Pudong, Shanghai, 200127, China
| | - Ze Wang
- Department of Neurology, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, 160 Pujian Road, Pudong, Shanghai, 200127, China
| | - Zhi Lin
- Department of Neurology, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, 160 Pujian Road, Pudong, Shanghai, 200127, China
| | - Ying Zhu
- Department of Neurology, Shanghai International Medical Center, Shanghai, 201318, China
| | - Desheng Zhu
- Department of Neurology, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, 160 Pujian Road, Pudong, Shanghai, 200127, China
| | - Chong Xie
- Department of Neurology, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, 160 Pujian Road, Pudong, Shanghai, 200127, China
| | - Nigel A Calcutt
- Department of Pathology, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Yangtai Guan
- Department of Neurology, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, 160 Pujian Road, Pudong, Shanghai, 200127, China.
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11
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Jeffrey-Gauthier R, Bouyer J, Piché M, Côté MP, Leblond H. Locomotor deficits induced by lumbar muscle inflammation involve spinal microglia and are independent of KCC2 expression in a mouse model of complete spinal transection. Exp Neurol 2021; 338:113592. [PMID: 33388315 PMCID: PMC7904639 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2020.113592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2020] [Revised: 12/03/2020] [Accepted: 12/28/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) is associated with damage to musculoskeletal tissues of the spine. Recent findings show that pain and inflammatory processes caused by musculoskeletal injury mediate plastic changes in the spinal cord. These changes could impede the adaptive plastic changes responsible for functional recovery. The underlying mechanism remains unclear, but may involve the microglia-BDNF-KCC2 pathway, which is implicated in sensitization of dorsal horn neurons in neuropathic pain and in the regulation of spinal excitability by step-training. In the present study, we examined the effects of step-training and lumbar muscle inflammation induced by complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA) on treadmill locomotion in a mouse model of complete spinal transection. The impact on locomotor recovery of each of these interventions alone or in combination were examined in addition to changes in microglia and KCC2 expression in the dorsal and ventral horns of the sublesional spinal cord. Results show that angular motion at the hip, knee and ankle joint during locomotion were decreased by CFA injection and improved by step-training. Moreover, CFA injection enhanced the expression of the microglial marker Iba1 in both ventral and dorsal horns, with or without step-training. However, this change was not associated with a modulation of KCC2 expression, suggesting that locomotor deficits induced by inflammation are independent of KCC2 expression in the sublesional spinal cord. These results indicate that musculoskeletal injury hinders locomotor recovery after SCI and that microglia is involved in this effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renaud Jeffrey-Gauthier
- Department of Anatomy, Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières, 3351 boul. des Forges, C.P. 500, Trois-Rivières, QC G9A 5H7, Canada; CogNAC Research Group, Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières, 3351 boul. des Forges, C.P. 500, Trois-Rivières, QC G9A 5H7, Canada.
| | - Julien Bouyer
- Marion Murray Spinal Cord Research Center, Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA 19129, United States.
| | - Mathieu Piché
- Department of Anatomy, Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières, 3351 boul. des Forges, C.P. 500, Trois-Rivières, QC G9A 5H7, Canada; CogNAC Research Group, Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières, 3351 boul. des Forges, C.P. 500, Trois-Rivières, QC G9A 5H7, Canada.
| | - Marie-Pascale Côté
- Marion Murray Spinal Cord Research Center, Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA 19129, United States.
| | - Hugues Leblond
- Department of Anatomy, Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières, 3351 boul. des Forges, C.P. 500, Trois-Rivières, QC G9A 5H7, Canada; CogNAC Research Group, Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières, 3351 boul. des Forges, C.P. 500, Trois-Rivières, QC G9A 5H7, Canada.
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12
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Jørgensen HS, Jensen DB, Dimintiyanova KP, Bonnevie VS, Hedegaard A, Lehnhoff J, Moldovan M, Grondahl L, Meehan CF. Increased Axon Initial Segment Length Results in Increased Na + Currents in Spinal Motoneurones at Symptom Onset in the G127X SOD1 Mouse Model of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Neuroscience 2020; 468:247-264. [PMID: 33246068 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2020.11.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2020] [Revised: 10/22/2020] [Accepted: 11/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a neurodegenerative disease preferentially affecting motoneurones. Transgenic mouse models have been used to investigate the role of abnormal motoneurone excitability in this disease. Whilst an increased excitability has repeatedly been demonstrated in vitro in neonatal and embryonic preparations from SOD1 mouse models, the results from the only studies to record in vivo from spinal motoneurones in adult SOD1 models have produced conflicting findings. Deficits in repetitive firing have been reported in G93A SOD1(high copy number) mice but not in presymptomatic G127X SOD1 mice despite shorter motoneurone axon initial segments (AISs) in these mice. These discrepancies may be due to the earlier disease onset and prolonged disease progression in G93A SOD1 mice with recordings potentially performed at a later sub-clinical stage of the disease in this mouse. To test this, and to explore how the evolution of excitability changes with symptom onset we performed in vivo intracellular recording and AIS labelling in G127X SOD1 mice immediately after symptom onset. No reductions in repetitive firing were observed showing that this is not a common feature across all ALS models. Immunohistochemistry for the Na+ channel Nav1.6 showed that motoneurone AISs increase in length in G127X SOD1 mice at symptom onset. Consistent with this, the rate of rise of AIS components of antidromic action potentials were significantly faster confirming that this increase in length represents an increase in AIS Na+ channels occurring at symptom onset in this model.
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Affiliation(s)
- H S Jørgensen
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - D B Jensen
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - V S Bonnevie
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - A Hedegaard
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - J Lehnhoff
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - M Moldovan
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - L Grondahl
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - C F Meehan
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Copenhagen, Denmark.
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13
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Burg T, Bichara C, Scekic‐Zahirovic J, Fischer M, Stuart‐Lopez G, Brunet A, Lefebvre F, Cordero‐Erausquin M, Rouaux C. Absence of Subcerebral Projection Neurons Is Beneficial in a Mouse Model of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Ann Neurol 2020; 88:688-702. [PMID: 32588450 PMCID: PMC7540428 DOI: 10.1002/ana.25833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2019] [Revised: 06/23/2020] [Accepted: 06/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Recent studies carried out on amyotrophic lateral sclerosis patients suggest that the disease might initiate in the motor cortex and spread to its targets along the corticofugal tracts. In this study, we aimed to test the corticofugal hypothesis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis experimentally. METHODS Sod1G86R and Fezf2 knockout mouse lines were crossed to generate a model that expresses a mutant of the murine Sod1 gene ubiquitously, a condition sufficient to induce progressive motor symptoms and premature death, but genetically lacks corticospinal neurons and other subcerebral projection neurons, one of the main populations of corticofugal neurons. Disease onset and survival were recorded, and weight and motor behavior were followed longitudinally. Hyper-reflexia and spasticity were monitored using electromyographic recordings. Neurodegeneration and gliosis were assessed by histological techniques. RESULTS Absence of subcerebral projection neurons delayed disease onset, reduced weight loss and motor impairment, and increased survival without modifying disease duration. Absence of corticospinal neurons also limited presymptomatic hyper-reflexia, a typical component of the upper motoneuron syndrome. INTERPRETATION Major corticofugal tracts are crucial to the onset and progression of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. In the context of the disease, subcerebral projection neurons might carry detrimental signals to their downstream targets. In its entirety, this study provides the first experimental arguments in favor of the corticofugal hypothesis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. ANN NEUROL 2020;88:688-702.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thibaut Burg
- Inserm UMR_S 1118, Mécanismes centraux et périphériques de la neurodégénérescence, Faculté de MédecineUniversité de StrasbourgStrasbourgFrance
| | - Charlotte Bichara
- UPR 3212, Institut des neurosciences cellulaires et intégratives, UPR 3212 CNRSUniversité de StrasbourgStrasbourgFrance
| | - Jelena Scekic‐Zahirovic
- Inserm UMR_S 1118, Mécanismes centraux et périphériques de la neurodégénérescence, Faculté de MédecineUniversité de StrasbourgStrasbourgFrance
| | - Mathieu Fischer
- Inserm UMR_S 1118, Mécanismes centraux et périphériques de la neurodégénérescence, Faculté de MédecineUniversité de StrasbourgStrasbourgFrance
| | - Geoffrey Stuart‐Lopez
- Inserm UMR_S 1118, Mécanismes centraux et périphériques de la neurodégénérescence, Faculté de MédecineUniversité de StrasbourgStrasbourgFrance
| | - Aurore Brunet
- Inserm UMR_S 1118, Mécanismes centraux et périphériques de la neurodégénérescence, Faculté de MédecineUniversité de StrasbourgStrasbourgFrance
| | - François Lefebvre
- GMRC, service de santé publiqueHôpitaux Universitaires de StrasbourgStrasbourgFrance
| | - Matilde Cordero‐Erausquin
- UPR 3212, Institut des neurosciences cellulaires et intégratives, UPR 3212 CNRSUniversité de StrasbourgStrasbourgFrance
| | - Caroline Rouaux
- Inserm UMR_S 1118, Mécanismes centraux et périphériques de la neurodégénérescence, Faculté de MédecineUniversité de StrasbourgStrasbourgFrance
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14
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Wieters F, Weiss Lucas C, Gruhn M, Büschges A, Fink GR, Aswendt M. Introduction to spasticity and related mouse models. Exp Neurol 2020; 335:113491. [PMID: 33007294 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2020.113491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2020] [Revised: 09/21/2020] [Accepted: 09/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Although spasticity is one of the most common causes of motor disability worldwide, its precise definition and pathophysiology remain elusive, which to date renders its experimental targeting tricky. At least in part, this difficulty is caused by heterogeneous phenotypes of spasticity-causing neurological disorders, all causing spasticity by involving upper motor neurons. The most common clinical symptoms are a series of rapid muscle contractions (clonus), an increased muscle tone (hypertonia), and augmented tendon reflex activity (hyperreflexia). This muscle overactivity is due to disturbed inhibition of spinal reflexes following upper motor neuron dysfunction. Despite a range of physical and pharmacological therapies ameliorating the symptoms, their targeted application remains difficult. Therefore, to date, spasticity impacts rehabilitative therapy, and no therapy exists that reverses the pathology completely. In contrast to the incidence and importance of spasticity, only very little pre-clinical work in animal models exists, and this research is focused on the cat or the rat spastic tail model to decipher altered reflexes and excitability of the motor neurons in the spinal cord. Meanwhile, the characterization of spasticity in clinically more relevant mouse models of neurological disorders, such as stroke, remains understudied. Here, we provide a brief introduction into the clinical knowledge and therapy of spasticity and an in-depth review of pre-clinical studies of spasticity in mice including the current experimental challenges for clinical translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frederique Wieters
- University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine, University Hospital Cologne, Department of Neurology, Cologne, Germany
| | - Carolin Weiss Lucas
- University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine, University Hospital Cologne, Center of Neurosurgery, Cologne, Germany
| | - Matthias Gruhn
- Department for Animal Physiology, Institute for Zoology, Biocenter Cologne, University of Cologne
| | - Ansgar Büschges
- Department for Animal Physiology, Institute for Zoology, Biocenter Cologne, University of Cologne
| | - Gereon R Fink
- University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine, University Hospital Cologne, Department of Neurology, Cologne, Germany; Cognitive Neuroscience, Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine (INM-3), Research Center Juelich, Germany
| | - Markus Aswendt
- University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine, University Hospital Cologne, Department of Neurology, Cologne, Germany; Cognitive Neuroscience, Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine (INM-3), Research Center Juelich, Germany.
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15
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Mòdol-Caballero G, García-Lareu B, Verdés S, Ariza L, Sánchez-Brualla I, Brocard F, Bosch A, Navarro X, Herrando-Grabulosa M. Therapeutic Role of Neuregulin 1 Type III in SOD1-Linked Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Neurotherapeutics 2020; 17:1048-1060. [PMID: 31965551 PMCID: PMC7609630 DOI: 10.1007/s13311-019-00811-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a devastating motoneuron (Mn) disease without effective cure currently available. Death of MNs in ALS is preceded by failure of neuromuscular junctions and axonal retraction. Neuregulin 1 (NRG1) is a neurotrophic factor highly expressed in MNs and neuromuscular junctions that support axonal and neuromuscular development and maintenance. NRG1 and its ErbB receptors are involved in ALS. Reduced NRG1 expression has been found in ALS patients and in the ALS SOD1G93A mouse model; however, the expression of the isoforms of NRG1 and its receptors is still controversial. Due to the reduced levels of NRG1 type III (NRG1-III) in the spinal cord of ALS patients, we used gene therapy based on intrathecal administration of adeno-associated virus to overexpress NRG1-III in SOD1G93A mice. The mice were evaluated from 9 to 16 weeks of age by electrophysiology and rotarod tests. At 16 weeks, samples were harvested for histological and molecular analyses. Our results indicate that overexpression of NRG1-III is able to preserve neuromuscular function of the hindlimbs, improve locomotor performance, increase the number of surviving MNs, and reduce glial reactivity in the treated female SOD1G93A mice. Furthermore, the NRG1-III/ErbB4 axis appears to regulate MN excitability by modulating the chloride transporter KCC2 and reduces the expression of the MN vulnerability marker MMP-9. However, NRG1-III did not have a significant effect on male mice, indicating relevant sex differences. These findings indicate that increasing NRG1-III at the spinal cord is a promising approach for promoting MN protection and functional improvement in ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guillem Mòdol-Caballero
- Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, Institute of Neurosciences, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193, Bellaterra, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), 08193, Bellaterra, Spain
| | - Belén García-Lareu
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), 08193, Bellaterra, Spain
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Institute of Neurosciences, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193, Bellaterra, Spain
| | - Sergi Verdés
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Institute of Neurosciences, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193, Bellaterra, Spain
| | - Lorena Ariza
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Institute of Neurosciences, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193, Bellaterra, Spain
| | - Irene Sánchez-Brualla
- Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, Institute of Neurosciences, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193, Bellaterra, Spain
- Team P3M, Institut de Neurosciences de la Timone, UMR7289, Aix-Marseille Université and Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), 13005, Marseille, France
| | - Frédéric Brocard
- Team P3M, Institut de Neurosciences de la Timone, UMR7289, Aix-Marseille Université and Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), 13005, Marseille, France
| | - Assumpció Bosch
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), 08193, Bellaterra, Spain
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Institute of Neurosciences, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193, Bellaterra, Spain
| | - Xavier Navarro
- Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, Institute of Neurosciences, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193, Bellaterra, Spain.
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), 08193, Bellaterra, Spain.
| | - Mireia Herrando-Grabulosa
- Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, Institute of Neurosciences, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193, Bellaterra, Spain.
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), 08193, Bellaterra, Spain.
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16
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Beverungen H, Klaszky SC, Klaszky M, Côté MP. Rehabilitation Decreases Spasticity by Restoring Chloride Homeostasis through the Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor-KCC2 Pathway after Spinal Cord Injury. J Neurotrauma 2020; 37:846-859. [PMID: 31578924 PMCID: PMC7071070 DOI: 10.1089/neu.2019.6526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Activity-based therapy is routinely integrated in rehabilitation programs to facilitate functional recovery after spinal cord injury (SCI). Among its beneficial effects is a reduction of hyperreflexia and spasticity, which affects ∼75% of the SCI population. Unlike current anti-spastic pharmacological treatments, rehabilitation attenuates spastic symptoms without causing an active depression in spinal excitability, thus avoiding further interference with motor recovery. Understanding how activity-based therapies contribute to decrease spasticity is critical to identifying new pharmacological targets and to optimize rehabilitation programs. It was recently demonstrated that a decrease in the expression of KCC2, a neuronal Cl- extruder, contributes to the development spasticity in SCI rats. Although exercise can decrease spinal hyperexcitability and increase KCC2 expression on lumbar motoneurons after SCI, a causal effect remains to be established. Activity-dependent processes include an increase in brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) expression. Interestingly, BDNF is a regulator of KCC2 but also a potent modulator of spinal excitability. Therefore, we hypothesized that after SCI, the activity-dependent increase in KCC2 expression: 1) functionally contributes to reduce hyperreflexia, and 2) is regulated by BDNF. SCI rats chronically received VU0240551 (KCC2 blocker) or TrkB-IgG (BDNF scavenger) during the daily rehabilitation sessions and the frequency-dependent depression of the H-reflex, a monitor of hyperreflexia, was recorded 4 weeks post-injury. Our results suggest that the activity-dependent increase in KCC2 functionally contributes to H-reflex recovery and critically depends on BDNF activity. This study provides a new perspective in understanding how exercise impacts hyperreflexia by identifying the biological basis of the recovery of function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henrike Beverungen
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, Marion Murray Spinal Cord Research Center, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Samantha Choyke Klaszky
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, Marion Murray Spinal Cord Research Center, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Michael Klaszky
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, Marion Murray Spinal Cord Research Center, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Marie-Pascale Côté
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, Marion Murray Spinal Cord Research Center, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
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17
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Plantier V, Sanchez-Brualla I, Dingu N, Brocard C, Liabeuf S, Gackière F, Brocard F. Calpain fosters the hyperexcitability of motoneurons after spinal cord injury and leads to spasticity. eLife 2019; 8:e51404. [PMID: 31815668 PMCID: PMC6927741 DOI: 10.7554/elife.51404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2019] [Accepted: 12/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Up-regulation of the persistent sodium current (INaP) and down-regulation of the potassium/chloride extruder KCC2 lead to spasticity after spinal cord injury (SCI). We here identified calpain as the driver of the up- and down-regulation of INaP and KCC2, respectively, in neonatal rat lumbar motoneurons. Few days after SCI, neonatal rats developed behavioral signs of spasticity with the emergence of both hyperreflexia and abnormal involuntary muscle contractions on hindlimbs. At the same time, in vitro isolated lumbar spinal cords became hyperreflexive and displayed numerous spontaneous motor outputs. Calpain-I expression paralleled with a proteolysis of voltage-gated sodium (Nav) channels and KCC2. Acute inhibition of calpains reduced this proteolysis, restored the motoneuronal expression of Nav and KCC2, normalized INaP and KCC2 function, and curtailed spasticity. In sum, by up- and down-regulating INaP and KCC2, the calpain-mediated proteolysis of Nav and KCC2 drives the hyperexcitability of motoneurons which leads to spasticity after SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa Plantier
- Institut de Neurosciences de la Timone (UMR7289), Aix-Marseille Université and CNRSMarseilleFrance
| | - Irene Sanchez-Brualla
- Institut de Neurosciences de la Timone (UMR7289), Aix-Marseille Université and CNRSMarseilleFrance
| | - Nejada Dingu
- Institut de Neurosciences de la Timone (UMR7289), Aix-Marseille Université and CNRSMarseilleFrance
| | - Cécile Brocard
- Institut de Neurosciences de la Timone (UMR7289), Aix-Marseille Université and CNRSMarseilleFrance
| | - Sylvie Liabeuf
- Institut de Neurosciences de la Timone (UMR7289), Aix-Marseille Université and CNRSMarseilleFrance
| | - Florian Gackière
- Institut de Neurosciences de la Timone (UMR7289), Aix-Marseille Université and CNRSMarseilleFrance
| | - Frédéric Brocard
- Institut de Neurosciences de la Timone (UMR7289), Aix-Marseille Université and CNRSMarseilleFrance
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18
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Mekhael W, Begum S, Samaddar S, Hassan M, Toruno P, Ahmed M, Gorin A, Maisano M, Ayad M, Ahmed Z. Repeated anodal trans-spinal direct current stimulation results in long-term reduction of spasticity in mice with spinal cord injury. J Physiol 2019; 597:2201-2223. [PMID: 30689208 PMCID: PMC6462463 DOI: 10.1113/jp276952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2018] [Accepted: 01/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
KEY POINTS Spasticity is a disorder of muscle tone that is associated with lesions of the motor system. This condition involves an overactive spinal reflex loop that resists the passive lengthening of muscles. Previously, we established that application of anodal trans-spinal direct current stimulation (a-tsDCS) for short periods of time to anaesthetized mice sustaining a spinal cord injury leads to an instantaneous reduction of spasticity. However, the long-term effects of repeated a-tsDCS and its mechanism of action remained unknown. In the present study, a-tsDCS was performed for 7 days and this was found to cause long-term reduction in spasticity, increased rate-dependent depression in spinal reflexes, and improved ground and skill locomotion. Pharmacological, molecular and cellular evidence further suggest that a novel mechanism involving Na-K-Cl cotransporter isoform 1 mediates the observed long-term effects of repeated a-tsDCS. ABSTRACT Spasticity can cause pain, fatigue and sleep disturbances; restrict daily activities such as walking, sitting and bathing; and complicate rehabilitation efforts. Thus, spasticity negatively influences an individual's quality of life and novel therapeutic interventions are needed. We previously demonstrated in anaesthetized mice that a short period of trans-spinal subthreshold direct current stimulation (tsDCS) reduces spasticity. In the present study, the long-term effects of repeated tsDCS to attenuate abnormal muscle tone in awake female mice with spinal cord injuries were investigated. A motorized system was used to test velocity-dependent ankle resistance and associated electromyographical activity. Analysis of ground and skill locomotion was also performed, with electrophysiological, molecular and cellular studies being conducted to reveal a potential underlying mechanism of action. A 4 week reduction in spasticity was associated with an increase in rate-dependent depression of spinal reflexes, and ground and skill locomotion were improved following 7 days of anodal-tsDCS (a-tsDCS). Secondary molecular, cellular and pharmacological experiments further demonstrated that the expression of K-Cl co-transporter isoform 2 (KCC2) was not changed in animals with spasticity. However, Na-K-Cl cotransporter isoform 1 (NKCC1) was significantly up-regulated in mice that exhibited spasticity. When mice were treated with a-tsDCS, down regulation of NKCC1 was detected, and this level did not significantly differ from that in the non-injured control mice. Thus, long lasting reduction of spasticity by a-tsDCS via downregulation of NKCC1 may constitute a novel therapy for spasticity following spinal cord injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wagdy Mekhael
- Graduate CenterCity University of New YorkNew YorkNYUSA
| | - Sultana Begum
- Center for Developmental NeuroscienceThe College of Staten IslandStaten IslandNYUSA
| | - Sreyashi Samaddar
- Center for Developmental NeuroscienceThe College of Staten IslandStaten IslandNYUSA
- Department of Physical TherapyThe College of Staten IslandStaten IslandNYUSA
| | - Mazen Hassan
- Center for Developmental NeuroscienceThe College of Staten IslandStaten IslandNYUSA
| | - Pedro Toruno
- Center for Developmental NeuroscienceThe College of Staten IslandStaten IslandNYUSA
| | - Malik Ahmed
- Center for Developmental NeuroscienceThe College of Staten IslandStaten IslandNYUSA
| | - Alexis Gorin
- Center for Developmental NeuroscienceThe College of Staten IslandStaten IslandNYUSA
| | - Michael Maisano
- Center for Developmental NeuroscienceThe College of Staten IslandStaten IslandNYUSA
| | - Mark Ayad
- Center for Developmental NeuroscienceThe College of Staten IslandStaten IslandNYUSA
| | - Zaghloul Ahmed
- Graduate CenterCity University of New YorkNew YorkNYUSA
- Center for Developmental NeuroscienceThe College of Staten IslandStaten IslandNYUSA
- Department of Physical TherapyThe College of Staten IslandStaten IslandNYUSA
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19
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Di Scala C, Tessier M, Sapet C, Poulhes F, Sicard F, Zelphati O, Pellegrino C. A new polymer-based approach for in vivo transfection in postnatal brain. J Neurosci Methods 2019; 311:295-306. [PMID: 30408559 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneumeth.2018.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2018] [Revised: 10/26/2018] [Accepted: 11/04/2018] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gene delivery within the central nervous system at postnatal age is one of the most challenging tasks in neuroscience and currently only a few effective methods are available. COMPARISON WITH EXISTING METHODS For postnatal central nervous system cells, viral approaches are commonly used for genetic engineering but they face several biosafety requirements for production and use making them less accessible to the community. Conversely, lipid-based methods are widely used in cell culture but face limitation in vivo mainly due to the inflammatory responses they induce. To this aspect, the use of a transgenic mouse line can represent a credible answer to the community working on rat models still requires an effective and successful solution to circumvent these difficulties. NEW METHOD We describe a new polymer-based gene delivery system allowing persistent and robust in vivo transfection with low DNA amount, reduced inflammation and high diffusion. The expression profile along the brain, the stability, the diffusion of the DNA together with the quantity of cells transfected were evaluated through in vivo approaches. RESULTS With a single low-volume injection, we targeted different cell types within the rat brain. We measured the diffusion rate ranging from 1 to 5 mm based on the injected volume, in the three-dimensions axis. Finally, we modified brain susceptibility to epileptic seizures using a specific knock-down of the neuronal specific potassium-chloride transporter 2. CONCLUSIONS This safe and easy system opens perspectives for non viral gene delivery in the rat brain with perspectives to study brain function in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Di Scala
- INMED, INSERM, Aix-Marseille Univ, 163 route de luminy, BP13, Marseille, France
| | - M Tessier
- INMED, INSERM, Aix-Marseille Univ, 163 route de luminy, BP13, Marseille, France
| | - C Sapet
- OZ Biosciences, Parc Scientifique de Luminy, 163 Avenue de Luminy case 922, 13288 Marseille cedex 9, France
| | - F Poulhes
- OZ Biosciences, Parc Scientifique de Luminy, 163 Avenue de Luminy case 922, 13288 Marseille cedex 9, France
| | - F Sicard
- OZ Biosciences, Parc Scientifique de Luminy, 163 Avenue de Luminy case 922, 13288 Marseille cedex 9, France
| | - O Zelphati
- OZ Biosciences, Parc Scientifique de Luminy, 163 Avenue de Luminy case 922, 13288 Marseille cedex 9, France.
| | - C Pellegrino
- INMED, INSERM, Aix-Marseille Univ, 163 route de luminy, BP13, Marseille, France.
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20
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Huang YJ, Grau JW. Ionic plasticity and pain: The loss of descending serotonergic fibers after spinal cord injury transforms how GABA affects pain. Exp Neurol 2018; 306:105-116. [PMID: 29729247 PMCID: PMC5994379 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2018.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2017] [Revised: 04/24/2018] [Accepted: 05/01/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Activation of pain (nociceptive) fibers can sensitize neural circuits within the spinal cord, inducing an increase in excitability (central sensitization) that can foster chronic pain. The development of spinally-mediated central sensitization is regulated by descending fibers and GABAergic interneurons. In adult animals, the co-transporter KCC2 maintains a low intracellular concentration of the anion Cl-. As a result, when the GABA-A receptor is engaged, Cl- flows in the neuron which has a hyperpolarizing (inhibitory) effect. Spinal cord injury (SCI) can down-regulate KCC2 and reverse the flow of Cl-. Under these conditions, engaging the GABA-A receptor can have a depolarizing (excitatory) effect that fosters the development of nociceptive sensitization. The present paper explores how SCI alters GABA function and provides evidence that the loss of descending fibers alters pain transmission to the brain. Prior work has shown that, after SCI, administration of a GABA-A antagonist blocks the development of capsaicin-induced nociceptive sensitization, implying that GABA release plays an essential role. This excitatory effect is linked to serotonergic (5HT) fibers that descend through the dorsolateral funiculus (DLF) and impact spinal function via the 5HT-1A receptor. Supporting this, blocking the 5HT-1A receptor, or lesioning the DLF, emulated the effect of SCI. Conversely, spinal application of a 5HT-1A agonist up-regulated KCC2 and reversed the effect of bicuculline treatment. Finally, lesioning the DLF reversed how a GABA-A antagonist affects a capsaicin-induced aversion in a place conditioning task; in sham operated animals, bicuculline enhanced aversion whereas in DLF-lesioned rats biciculline had an antinociceptive effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yung-Jen Huang
- Behavioral and Cellular Neuroscience, Department of Psychology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA.
| | - James W Grau
- Behavioral and Cellular Neuroscience, Department of Psychology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
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21
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Kim J, Kobayashi S, Shimizu-Okabe C, Okabe A, Moon C, Shin T, Takayama C. Changes in the expression and localization of signaling molecules in mouse facial motor neurons during regeneration of facial nerves. J Chem Neuroanat 2018; 88:13-21. [PMID: 29113945 DOI: 10.1016/j.jchemneu.2017.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2017] [Revised: 11/01/2017] [Accepted: 11/02/2017] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
After injury, peripheral axons usually re-extend toward their target, and neuronal functions recover. Previous studies have reported that expression of various molecules are transiently altered in motor neurons after nerve injury, but the time course of these changes and their relationship with functional recovery have not been clearly demonstrated. We used the mouse facial nerve transection and suturing model, and examined the changes in expression of five molecules, choline acetyl transferase (ChAT), galanin, calcitonin gene-related protein (CGRP), gephyrin, and potassium chloride co-transporter 2 (KCC2) in the facial motor neurons after surgery until recovery. Number of ChAT-positive neurons was markedly decreased at days 3 and 7, and recovered to the normal level by day 60, when facial motor functions recovered. Localization of two neuropeptides, CGRP and galanin, was increased in the perikarya and axons during regeneration, and returned to the normal levels by days 60 and 28, respectively. Expression of two postsynaptic elements of γ-amino butyric acid synapses, gephyrin and KCC2, was decreased at days 3 and 7, and recovered by day 60. These results suggest that ChAT, CGRP, and KCC2 may be objective indicators of regeneration, and altering their expression may be related to the functional recovery and axonal re-extension.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeongtae Kim
- Department of Molecular Anatomy, School of Medicine, University of the Ryukyus, Nishihara, Okinawa 903-0215, Japan; Laboratory of Veterinary Anatomy, College of Veterinary Medicine, Jeju National University, Jeju 63243, South Korea
| | - Shiori Kobayashi
- Department of Molecular Anatomy, School of Medicine, University of the Ryukyus, Nishihara, Okinawa 903-0215, Japan
| | - Chigusa Shimizu-Okabe
- Department of Molecular Anatomy, School of Medicine, University of the Ryukyus, Nishihara, Okinawa 903-0215, Japan
| | - Akihito Okabe
- Department of Molecular Anatomy, School of Medicine, University of the Ryukyus, Nishihara, Okinawa 903-0215, Japan
| | - Changjong Moon
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy, College of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Medical Institute, Chonnam National University, Gwangju 61186, South Korea
| | - Taekyun Shin
- Laboratory of Veterinary Anatomy, College of Veterinary Medicine, Jeju National University, Jeju 63243, South Korea
| | - Chitoshi Takayama
- Department of Molecular Anatomy, School of Medicine, University of the Ryukyus, Nishihara, Okinawa 903-0215, Japan.
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22
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Baker D, Pryce G, Visintin C, Sisay S, Bondarenko AI, Vanessa Ho WS, Jackson SJ, Williams TE, Al-Izki S, Sevastou I, Okuyama M, Graier WF, Stevenson LA, Tanner C, Ross R, Pertwee RG, Henstridge CM, Irving AJ, Schulman J, Powell K, Baker MD, Giovannoni G, Selwood DL. Big conductance calcium-activated potassium channel openers control spasticity without sedation. Br J Pharmacol 2017; 174:2662-2681. [PMID: 28677901 PMCID: PMC5522996 DOI: 10.1111/bph.13889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2017] [Revised: 04/27/2017] [Accepted: 05/17/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Purpose Our initial aim was to generate cannabinoid agents that control spasticity, occurring as a consequence of multiple sclerosis (MS), whilst avoiding the sedative side effects associated with cannabis. VSN16R was synthesized as an anandamide (endocannabinoid) analogue in an anti‐metabolite approach to identify drugs that target spasticity. Experimental Approach Following the initial chemistry, a variety of biochemical, pharmacological and electrophysiological approaches, using isolated cells, tissue‐based assays and in vivo animal models, were used to demonstrate the activity, efficacy, pharmacokinetics and mechanism of action of VSN16R. Toxicological and safety studies were performed in animals and humans. Key Results VSN16R had nanomolar activity in tissue‐based, functional assays and dose‐dependently inhibited spasticity in a mouse experimental encephalomyelitis model of MS. This effect occurred with over 1000‐fold therapeutic window, without affecting normal muscle tone. Efficacy was achieved at plasma levels that are feasible and safe in humans. VSN16R did not bind to known CB1/CB2/GPPR55 cannabinoid‐related receptors in receptor‐based assays but acted on a vascular cannabinoid target. This was identified as the major neuronal form of the big conductance, calcium‐activated potassium (BKCa) channel. Drug‐induced opening of neuronal BKCa channels induced membrane hyperpolarization, limiting excessive neural‐excitability and controlling spasticity. Conclusions and Implications We identified the neuronal form of the BKCa channel as the target for VSN16R and demonstrated that its activation alleviates neuronal excitability and spasticity in an experimental model of MS, revealing a novel mechanism to control spasticity. VSN16R is a potential, safe and selective ligand for controlling neural hyper‐excitability in spasticity.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Baker
- Neuroimmunology Unit, Blizard Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK.,Department of Neuroinflammation, UCL Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Gareth Pryce
- Neuroimmunology Unit, Blizard Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK.,Department of Neuroinflammation, UCL Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Cristina Visintin
- Department of Neuroinflammation, UCL Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, UK.,Department of Medicinal Chemistry, UCL Wolfson Institute for Biomedical Research, University College London, London, UK
| | - Sofia Sisay
- Neuroimmunology Unit, Blizard Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Alexander I Bondarenko
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria.,A.A. Bogomoletz Institute of Physiology, Kiev, Ukraine
| | - W S Vanessa Ho
- Vascular Biology Research Centre. St. George's, University of London, London, UK
| | - Samuel J Jackson
- Neuroimmunology Unit, Blizard Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Thomas E Williams
- Neuroimmunology Unit, Blizard Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Sarah Al-Izki
- Neuroimmunology Unit, Blizard Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Ioanna Sevastou
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, UCL Wolfson Institute for Biomedical Research, University College London, London, UK
| | - Masahiro Okuyama
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, UCL Wolfson Institute for Biomedical Research, University College London, London, UK
| | - Wolfgang F Graier
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Lesley A Stevenson
- Vascular Biology Research Centre. St. George's, University of London, London, UK
| | - Carolyn Tanner
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
| | - Ruth Ross
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
| | - Roger G Pertwee
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
| | - Christopher M Henstridge
- Neurosciences Institute, Division of Pathology and Neuroscience, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Andrew J Irving
- Neurosciences Institute, Division of Pathology and Neuroscience, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Jesse Schulman
- Canbex Therapeutics Ltd, London BioScience Innovation Centre, London, UK
| | - Keith Powell
- Canbex Therapeutics Ltd, London BioScience Innovation Centre, London, UK
| | - Mark D Baker
- Neuroimmunology Unit, Blizard Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Gavin Giovannoni
- Neuroimmunology Unit, Blizard Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK.,Department of Neuroinflammation, UCL Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, UK
| | - David L Selwood
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, UCL Wolfson Institute for Biomedical Research, University College London, London, UK
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23
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Mancuso R, Navarro X. Sigma-1 Receptor in Motoneuron Disease. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2017; 964:235-254. [PMID: 28315275 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-50174-1_16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS ) is a neurodegenerative disease affecting spinal cord and brain motoneurons , leading to paralysis and early death. Multiple etiopathogenic mechanisms appear to contribute in the development of ALS , including glutamate excitotoxicity, oxidative stress , protein misfolding, mitochondrial defects, impaired axonal transport, inflammation and glial cell alterations. The Sigma-1 receptor is highly expressed in motoneurons of the spinal cord, particularly enriched in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) at postsynaptic cisternae of cholinergic C-terminals. Several evidences point to participation of Sigma-1R alterations in motoneuron degeneration. Thus, mutations of the transmembrane domain of the Sigma-1R have been described in familial ALS cases. Interestingly, Sigma-1R KO mice display muscle weakness and motoneuron loss. On the other hand, Sigma-1R agonists promote neuroprotection and neurite elongation through activation of protein kinase C on motoneurons in vitro and in vivo after ventral root avulsion. Remarkably, treatment of SOD1 mice, the most usual animal model of ALS , with Sigma-1R agonists resulted in significantly enhanced motoneuron function and preservation, and increased animal survival. Sigma-1R activation also reduced microglial reactivity and increased the glial expression of neurotrophic factors. Two main interconnected mechanisms seem to underlie the effects of Sigma-1R manipulation on motoneurons: modulation of neuronal excitability and regulation of calcium homeostasis. In addition, Sigma-1R also contributes to regulating protein degradation, and reducing oxidative stress. Therefore, the multi-functional nature of the Sigma-1R represents an attractive target for treating aspects of ALS and other motoneuron diseases .
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Affiliation(s)
- Renzo Mancuso
- Center for Biological Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton General Hospital, SO16 6YD, Southampton, UK
| | - Xavier Navarro
- Institute of Neurosciences and Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, and Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Bellaterra, Spain.
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24
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Dutheil S, Watabe I, Sadlaoud K, Tonetto A, Tighilet B. BDNF Signaling Promotes Vestibular Compensation by Increasing Neurogenesis and Remodeling the Expression of Potassium-Chloride Cotransporter KCC2 and GABAA Receptor in the Vestibular Nuclei. J Neurosci 2016; 36:6199-212. [PMID: 27277799 PMCID: PMC6604891 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.0945-16.2016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2016] [Revised: 04/29/2016] [Accepted: 05/02/2016] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
UNLABELLED Reactive cell proliferation occurs rapidly in the cat vestibular nuclei (VN) after unilateral vestibular neurectomy (UVN) and has been reported to facilitate the recovery of posturo-locomotor functions. Interestingly, whereas animals experience impairments for several weeks, extraordinary plasticity mechanisms take place in the local microenvironment of the VN: newborn cells survive and acquire different phenotypes, such as microglia, astrocytes, or GABAergic neurons, whereas animals eventually recover completely from their lesion-induced deficits. Because brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) can modulate vestibular functional recovery and neurogenesis in mammals, in this study, we examined the effect of BDNF chronic intracerebroventricular infusion versus K252a (a Trk receptor antagonist) in our UVN model. Results showed that long-term intracerebroventricular infusion of BDNF accelerated the restoration of vestibular functions and significantly increased UVN-induced neurogenesis, whereas K252a blocked that effect and drastically delayed and prevented the complete restoration of vestibular functions. Further, because the level of excitability in the deafferented VN is correlated with behavioral recovery, we examined the state of neuronal excitability using two specific markers: the cation-chloride cotransporter KCC2 (which determines the hyperpolarizing action of GABA) and GABAA receptors. We report for the first time that, during an early time window after UVN, significant BDNF-dependent remodeling of excitability markers occurs in the brainstem. These data suggest that GABA acquires a transient depolarizing action during recovery from UVN, which potentiates the observed reactive neurogenesis and accelerates vestibular functional recovery. These findings suggest that BDNF and/or KCC2 could represent novel treatment strategies for vestibular pathologies. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT In this study, we report for the first time that brain-derived neurotrophic factor potentiates vestibular neurogenesis and significantly accelerates functional recovery after unilateral vestibular injury. We also show that specific markers of excitability, the potassium-chloride cotransporter KCC2 and GABAA receptors, undergo remarkable fluctuations within vestibular nuclei (VN), strongly suggesting that GABA acquires a transient depolarizing action in the VN during the recovery period. This novel plasticity mechanism could explain in part how the system returns to electrophysiological homeostasis between the deafferented and intact VN, considered in the literature to be a key parameter of vestibular compensation. In this context, our results open new perspectives for the development of therapeutic approaches to alleviate the vestibular symptoms and favor vestibular function recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie Dutheil
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut 06519
| | - Isabelle Watabe
- Laboratoire de Neurosciences Intégratives et Adaptatives, UMR 7260 Aix-Marseille Université-CNRS, Fédération de Recherche 3C, 13331 Marseille Cedex 03, France, and
| | - Karina Sadlaoud
- Laboratoire de Neurosciences Intégratives et Adaptatives, UMR 7260 Aix-Marseille Université-CNRS, Fédération de Recherche 3C, 13331 Marseille Cedex 03, France, and
| | - Alain Tonetto
- Fédération de Recherche Sciences Chimiques Marseille FR 1739, Pôle PRATIM, 13331 Marseille Cedex 03, France
| | - Brahim Tighilet
- Laboratoire de Neurosciences Intégratives et Adaptatives, UMR 7260 Aix-Marseille Université-CNRS, Fédération de Recherche 3C, 13331 Marseille Cedex 03, France, and
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25
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Mancuso R, Navarro X. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: Current perspectives from basic research to the clinic. Prog Neurobiol 2015; 133:1-26. [PMID: 26253783 DOI: 10.1016/j.pneurobio.2015.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2014] [Revised: 07/30/2015] [Accepted: 07/31/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a neurodegenerative disease characterized by progressive degeneration of upper and lower motoneurons, leading to muscle weakness and paralysis, and finally death. Considerable recent advances have been made in basic research and preclinical therapeutic attempts using experimental models, leading to increasing clinical and translational research in the context of this disease. In this review we aim to summarize the most relevant findings from a variety of aspects about ALS, including evaluation methods, animal models, pathophysiology, and clinical findings, with particular emphasis in understanding the role of every contributing mechanism to the disease for elucidating the causes underlying degeneration of motoneurons and the development of new therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renzo Mancuso
- Institute of Neurosciences and Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, and Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Bellaterra, Spain
| | - Xavier Navarro
- Institute of Neurosciences and Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, and Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Bellaterra, Spain.
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26
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Hedegaard A, Lehnhoff J, Moldovan M, Grøndahl L, Petersen NC, Meehan CF. Postactivation depression of the Ia EPSP in motoneurons is reduced in both the G127X SOD1 model of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and in aged mice. J Neurophysiol 2015; 114:1196-210. [PMID: 26084911 DOI: 10.1152/jn.00745.2014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2014] [Accepted: 06/17/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Postactivation depression (PActD) of Ia afferent excitatory postsynaptic potentials (EPSPs) in spinal motoneurons results in a long-lasting depression of the stretch reflex. This phenomenon (PActD) is of clinical interest as it has been shown to be reduced in a number of spastic disorders. Using in vivo intracellular recordings of Ia EPSPs in adult mice, we demonstrate that PActD in adult (100-220 days old) C57BL/6J mice is both qualitatively and quantitatively similar to that which has been observed in larger animals with respect to both the magnitude (with ∼20% depression of EPSPs at 0.5 ms after a train of stimuli) and the time course (returning to almost normal amplitudes by 5 ms after the train). This validates the use of mouse models to study PActD. Changes in such excitatory inputs to spinal motoneurons may have important implications for hyperreflexia and/or glutamate-induced excitotoxicity in the neurodegenerative disease amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). With the use of the G127X SOD1 mutant mouse, an ALS model with a prolonged asymptomatic phase and fulminant symptom onset, we observed that PActD is significantly reduced at both presymptomatic (16% depression) and symptomatic (17.3% depression) time points compared with aged-matched controls (22.4% depression). The PActD reduction was not markedly altered by symptom onset. Comparing these PActD changes at the EPSP with the known effect of the depression on the monosynaptic reflex, we conclude that this is likely to have a much larger effect on the reflex itself (a 20-40% difference). Nevertheless, it should also be accounted that in aged (580 day old) C57BL/6J mice there was also a reduction in PActD although, aging is not usually associated with spasticity.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Hedegaard
- Department of Neuroscience and Pharmacology, University of Copenhagen, Panum Institute, Copenhagen, Denmark; and
| | - J Lehnhoff
- Department of Neuroscience and Pharmacology, University of Copenhagen, Panum Institute, Copenhagen, Denmark; and
| | - M Moldovan
- Department of Neuroscience and Pharmacology, University of Copenhagen, Panum Institute, Copenhagen, Denmark; and
| | - L Grøndahl
- Department of Neuroscience and Pharmacology, University of Copenhagen, Panum Institute, Copenhagen, Denmark; and
| | - N C Petersen
- Department of Neuroscience and Pharmacology, University of Copenhagen, Panum Institute, Copenhagen, Denmark; and Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports, University of Copenhagen, Panum Institute, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - C F Meehan
- Department of Neuroscience and Pharmacology, University of Copenhagen, Panum Institute, Copenhagen, Denmark; and
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27
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Riancho J, Ruiz-Soto M, Villagrá NT, Berciano J, Berciano MT, Lafarga M. Compensatory Motor Neuron Response to Chromatolysis in the Murine hSOD1(G93A) Model of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Front Cell Neurosci 2014; 8:346. [PMID: 25374511 PMCID: PMC4206191 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2014.00346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2014] [Accepted: 10/06/2014] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
We investigated neuronal self-defense mechanisms in a murine model of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), the transgenic hSOD1(G93A), during both the asymptomatic and symptomatic stages. This is an experimental model of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress with severe chromatolysis. As a compensatory response to translation inhibition, chromatolytic neurons tended to reorganize the protein synthesis machinery at the perinuclear region, preferentially at nuclear infolding domains enriched in nuclear pores. This organization could facilitate nucleo-cytoplasmic traffic of RNAs and proteins at translation sites. By electron microscopy analysis, we observed that the active euchromatin pattern and the reticulated nucleolar configuration of control motor neurons were preserved in ALS chromatolytic neurons. Moreover the 5'-fluorouridine (5'-FU) transcription assay, at the ultrastructural level, revealed high incorporation of the RNA precursor 5'-FU into nascent RNA. Immunogold particles of 5'-FU incorporation were distributed throughout the euchromatin and on the dense fibrillar component of the nucleolus in both control and ALS motor neurons. The high rate of rRNA transcription in ALS motor neurons could maintain ribosome biogenesis under conditions of severe dysfunction of proteostasis. Collectively, the perinuclear reorganization of protein synthesis machinery, the predominant euchromatin architecture, and the active nucleolar transcription could represent compensatory mechanisms in ALS motor neurons in response to the disturbance of ER proteostasis. In this scenario, epigenetic activation of chromatin and nucleolar transcription could have important therapeutic implications for neuroprotection in ALS and other neurodegenerative diseases. Although histone deacetylase inhibitors are currently used as therapeutic agents, we raise the untapped potential of the nucleolar transcription of ribosomal genes as an exciting new target for the therapy of some neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javier Riancho
- Service of Neurology, University Hospital Marqués de Valdecilla, Instituto de Investigación Valdecilla (IDIVAL), University of Cantabria , Santander , Spain
| | - Maria Ruiz-Soto
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Instituto de Investigación Valdecilla, University of Cantabria , Santander , Spain
| | - Nuria T Villagrá
- Service of Pathology, University Hospital Marqués de Valdecilla, Instituto de Investigación Valdecilla, University of Cantabria , Santander , Spain
| | - Jose Berciano
- Service of Neurology, University Hospital Marqués de Valdecilla, Instituto de Investigación Valdecilla (IDIVAL), University of Cantabria , Santander , Spain
| | - Maria T Berciano
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Instituto de Investigación Valdecilla, University of Cantabria , Santander , Spain
| | - Miguel Lafarga
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Instituto de Investigación Valdecilla, University of Cantabria , Santander , Spain
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28
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Tapia R. Cellular and molecular mechanisms of motor neuron death in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: a perspective. Front Cell Neurosci 2014; 8:241. [PMID: 25177274 PMCID: PMC4132292 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2014.00241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2014] [Accepted: 07/29/2014] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Ricardo Tapia
- División de Neurociencias, Instituto de Fisiología Celular, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México Mexico City, Mexico
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