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Wilsch-Bräuninger M, Peters J, Huttner WB. High-resolution 3D ultrastructural analysis of developing mouse neocortex reveals long slender processes of endothelial cells that enter neural cells. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 12:1344734. [PMID: 38500687 PMCID: PMC10945550 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2024.1344734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024] Open
Abstract
The development of the neocortex involves an interplay between neural cells and the vasculature. However, little is known about this interplay at the ultrastructural level. To gain a 3D insight into the ultrastructure of the developing neocortex, we have analyzed the embryonic mouse neocortex by serial block-face scanning electron microscopy (SBF-SEM). In this study, we report a first set of findings that focus on the interaction of blood vessels, notably endothelial tip cells (ETCs), and the neural cells in this tissue. A key observation was that the processes of ETCs, located either in the ventricular zone (VZ) or subventricular zone (SVZ)/intermediate zone (IZ), can enter, traverse the cytoplasm, and even exit via deep plasma membrane invaginations of the host cells, including apical progenitors (APs), basal progenitors (BPs), and newborn neurons. More than half of the ETC processes were found to enter the neural cells. Striking examples of this ETC process "invasion" were (i) protrusions of apical progenitors or newborn basal progenitors into the ventricular lumen that contained an ETC process inside and (ii) ETC process-containing protrusions of neurons that penetrated other neurons. Our observations reveal a - so far unknown - complexity of the ETC-neural cell interaction.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Wieland B. Huttner
- Max-Planck-Institute of Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics, Dresden, Germany
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2
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Ren Z, Chen C, Zheng Y, Zhang S, Yan J, Cheng F, Wang X, Wang Q, Li C. Refined Qingkailing protects the in vitro neurovascular unit against oxygen-glucose deprivation and re-oxygenation-induced injury. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 167:115580. [PMID: 37776640 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.115580] [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: 07/25/2023] [Revised: 09/17/2023] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Since the proposal of the neurovascular unit (NVU) theory, it has become almost mandatory for neuroprotective medicines against ischaemic stroke (IS) to focus on this unit. Refined Qingkailing (RQKL) is a compound composed of hyodeoxycholic acid, geniposide, baicalin and cholic acid, which has shown great potential in the treatment of IS, but its effect on NVU has not been fully studied. The purpose of this study was to investigate the potential biological pathways that underlie the protective effects of RQKL against NVU damage induced by oxygen-glucose deprivation and re-oxygenation (OGD/R). Using in vitro OGD/R models, we looked into whether RQKL protects the NVU. In order to create an in vitro NVU that resembles IS, we created an OGD/R injury model using primary cultures of brain microvascular endothelial cells, neurons, and astrocytes. Based on our results, we present evidence, for the first time, that RQKL treatment of the injury caused by OGD/R significantly (1) kept the blood brain barrier (BBB) functioning and maintained the architecture of the neurons, (2) mitigated the oxidative stress damage, inflammatory cytokine release, and neuronal death, and (3) upregulated the expression of neurotrophic factors generated from glial cells and the brain in the in vitro model. Therefore, RQKL has a variety of preventive effects against NVU damage caused by OGD/R. RQKL may be a suitable medication for treating IS in a clinical setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zilin Ren
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine Department, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Congai Chen
- Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100700, China
| | - Yuxiao Zheng
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine Department, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Shuang Zhang
- Department of Integration of Chinese and Western Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Juntang Yan
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine Department, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Fafeng Cheng
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine Department, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Xueqian Wang
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine Department, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100029, China.
| | - Qingguo Wang
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine Department, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100029, China.
| | - Changxiang Li
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine Department, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing 100029, China.
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Huang YQ, Gu X, Chen X, Du YT, Chen BC, Sun FY. BMECs Ameliorate High Glucose-Induced Morphological Aberrations and Synaptic Dysfunction via VEGF-Mediated Modulation of Glucose Uptake in Cortical Neurons. Cell Mol Neurobiol 2023; 43:3575-3592. [PMID: 37418138 PMCID: PMC10477237 DOI: 10.1007/s10571-023-01366-0] [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: 01/07/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023]
Abstract
It has been demonstrated that diabetes cause neurite degeneration in the brain and cognitive impairment and neurovascular interactions are crucial for maintaining brain function. However, the role of vascular endothelial cells in neurite outgrowth and synaptic formation in diabetic brain is still unclear. Therefore, present study investigated effects of brain microvascular endothelial cells (BMECs) on high glucose (HG)-induced neuritic dystrophy using a coculture model of BMECs with neurons. Multiple immunofluorescence labelling and western blot analysis were used to detect neurite outgrowth and synapsis formation, and living cell imaging was used to detect uptake function of neuronal glucose transporters. We found cocultured with BMECs significantly reduced HG-induced inhibition of neurites outgrowth (including length and branch formation) and delayed presynaptic and postsynaptic development, as well as reduction of neuronal glucose uptake capacity, which was prevented by pre-treatment with SU1498, a vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) receptor antagonist. To analyse the possible mechanism, we collected BMECs cultured condition medium (B-CM) to treat the neurons under HG culture condition. The results showed that B-CM showed the same effects as BMEC on HG-treated neurons. Furthermore, we observed VEGF administration could ameliorate HG-induced neuronal morphology aberrations. Putting together, present results suggest that cerebral microvascular endothelial cells protect against hyperglycaemia-induced neuritic dystrophy and restorate neuronal glucose uptake capacity by activation of VEGF receptors and endothelial VEGF release. This result help us to understand important roles of neurovascular coupling in pathogenesis of diabetic brain, providing a new strategy to study therapy or prevention for diabetic dementia. Hyperglycaemia induced inhibition of neuronal glucose uptake and impaired to neuritic outgrowth and synaptogenesis. Cocultured with BMECs/B-CM and VEGF treatment protected HG-induced inhibition of glucose uptake and neuritic outgrowth and synaptogenesis, which was antagonized by blockade of VEGF receptors. Reduction of glucose uptake may further deteriorate impairment of neurites outgrowth and synaptogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Qi Huang
- Department of Neurobiology and Research Institute for Aging and Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, 138 Yi-Xue-Yuan Road, Shanghai, 200032, People's Republic of China
- National Clinical Research Center for Aging and Medicine, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiao Gu
- Department of Neurobiology and Research Institute for Aging and Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, 138 Yi-Xue-Yuan Road, Shanghai, 200032, People's Republic of China
- National Clinical Research Center for Aging and Medicine, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiao Chen
- Department of Neurobiology and Research Institute for Aging and Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, 138 Yi-Xue-Yuan Road, Shanghai, 200032, People's Republic of China
- National Clinical Research Center for Aging and Medicine, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, People's Republic of China
| | - Yi-Ting Du
- Department of Neurobiology and Research Institute for Aging and Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, 138 Yi-Xue-Yuan Road, Shanghai, 200032, People's Republic of China
- National Clinical Research Center for Aging and Medicine, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, People's Republic of China
| | - Bin-Chi Chen
- Department of Neurobiology and Research Institute for Aging and Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, 138 Yi-Xue-Yuan Road, Shanghai, 200032, People's Republic of China
- National Clinical Research Center for Aging and Medicine, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, People's Republic of China
| | - Feng-Yan Sun
- Department of Neurobiology and Research Institute for Aging and Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, 138 Yi-Xue-Yuan Road, Shanghai, 200032, People's Republic of China.
- National Clinical Research Center for Aging and Medicine, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, People's Republic of China.
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Bioactive Small Molecules, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, People's Republic of China.
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Wang Q, Qiao Z, Kang W, Zhu L, Zhang X. Comparative analysis of co-culture and monoculture models in simulating diabetic neurovascular dysfunction: insights into diabetic retinopathy. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1215218. [PMID: 37745714 PMCID: PMC10515208 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1215218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Interaction between retinal vascular endothelial cells and neurons plays a critical role in the pathogenesis of diabetic retinopathy (DR). This study aims to compare an in vitro model over a monoculture model to simulate the neurovascular coupling under the hyperglycemic microenvironment of diabetes. Methods Rat retinal vascular endothelial cells (RRMECs) and ganglion cells (RGCs) were seeded mono- or co-cultured in a normal (NG, 5.5 mM) and high (HG, 75 mM) glucose concentrations culture medium. Cell viability was detected by the cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assay. The ability of migration and lumen formation of RRMECs were determined by scratch wound, transwell migration, and lumen formation assays. The apoptosis index of cells was calculated and detected by propidium iodide (PI)/Hoechst staining. Quantitative and morphological analysis of RGCs was performed through the labeling of RGCs by brain-specific homeobox/POU domain protein 3A (BRN3A) and anti-beta-III tubulin (TUJ1). The gene and protein expression levels of occludin (OCLN) and zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1) were evaluated by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results The viability, migration, and lumen formation abilities of RRMECs in the HG group significantly increased (P<0.05) in both mono- and co-culture models. Migration and lumen formation abilities of RRMECs in the co-culture with HG were lower than that in the monoculture group (P<0.05). The viability of RGCs cells with HG significantly decreased in both mono- and co-culture models (Pmono<0.001, Pco<0.001), the apoptosis index of RGCs in the co-culture with HG was higher than that in the monoculture (P=0.010). The protein and gene expression of OCLN, and ZO-1 in RRMECs significantly decreased with HG culture medium in both culture models (P<0.05). In the HG group, the protein and gene expression level of the ZO-1 and OCLN of RRMECs significantly decreased in the co-culture model than that in the monoculture model (P<0.05). Conclusion Compared with mono cell culture, the established co-culture in vitro system for diabetic neurovascular dysfunction can better stimulate the micro-environment of the retinal neurovascular unit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiyun Wang
- Beijing Tongren Eye Center, Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Beijing Retinal and Choroidal Vascular Disorders Study Group, Beijing, China
| | - Zhixin Qiao
- Clinical Research Center, Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Wenting Kang
- Clinical Research Center, Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Ling Zhu
- Save Sight Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Xinyuan Zhang
- Beijing Tongren Eye Center, Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Beijing Retinal and Choroidal Vascular Disorders Study Group, Beijing, China
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Kofman S, Sun X, Ogbolu VC, Ibric L, Qiang L. Vascularized Brain Assembloids with Enhanced Cellular Complexity Provide Insights into The Cellular Deficits of Tauopathy. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.06.30.547293. [PMID: 37425812 PMCID: PMC10327194 DOI: 10.1101/2023.06.30.547293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/11/2023]
Abstract
Advanced technologies have enabled the engineering of self-organized 3-dimensional (3D) cellular structures from human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs), namely organoids, which recapitulate some key features of tissue development and functions of the human central nervous system (CNS). While hiPSC-derived 3D CNS organoids hold promise in providing a human-specific platform for studying CNS development and diseases, most of them do not incorporate the full range of implicated cell types, including vascular cell components and microglia, limiting their ability to accurately recreate the CNS environment and their utility in the study of certain aspects of the disease. Here we've developed a novel approach, called vascularized brain assembloids, for constructing hiPSC-derived 3D CNS structures with a higher level of cellular complexity. This is achieved by integrating forebrain organoids with common myeloid progenitors and phenotypically stabilized human umbilical vein endothelial cells (VeraVecs™), which can be cultured and expanded in serum-free conditions. Compared with organoids, these assembloids exhibited enhanced neuroepithelial proliferation, advanced astrocytic maturation, and increased synapse numbers. Strikingly, the assembloids derived from hiPSCs harboring the tau P301S mutation exhibited increased levels of total tau and phosphorylated tau, along with a higher proportion of rod-like microglia-like cells and enhanced astrocytic activation, when compared to the assembloids derived from isogenic hiPSCs. Additionally, they showed an altered profile of neuroinflammatory cytokines. This innovative assembloid technology serves as a compelling proof-of-concept model, opening new avenues for unraveling the intricate complexities of the human brain and accelerating progress in the development of effective treatments for neurological disorders. Significance Statement Modeling neurodegeneration in human in vitro systems has proved challenging and requires innovative tissue engineering techniques to create systems that can accurately capture the physiological features of the CNS to enable the study of disease processes. The authors develop a novel assembloid model which integrates neuroectodermal cells with endothelial cells and microglia, two critical cell types that are commonly missing from traditional organoid models. They then apply this model to investigate early manifestations of pathology in the context of tauopathy and uncover early astrocyte and microglia reactivity as a result of the tau P301S mutation.
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Isosaari L, Vuorenpää H, Yrjänäinen A, Kapucu FE, Kelloniemi M, Pakarinen TK, Miettinen S, Narkilahti S. Simultaneous induction of vasculature and neuronal network formation on a chip reveals a dynamic interrelationship between cell types. Cell Commun Signal 2023; 21:132. [PMID: 37316873 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-023-01159-4] [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: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 05/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/16/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neuronal networks receive and deliver information to regulate bodily functions while the vascular network provides oxygen, nutrients, and signaling molecules to tissues. Neurovascular interactions are vital for both tissue development and maintaining homeostasis in adulthood; these two network systems align and reciprocally communicate with one another. Although communication between network systems has been acknowledged, the lack of relevant in vitro models has hindered research at the mechanistic level. For example, the current used in vitro neurovascular models are typically established to be short-term (≤ 7 days) culture models, and they miss the supporting vascular mural cells. METHODS In this study, we utilized human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC) -derived neurons, fluorescence tagged human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs), and either human bone marrow or adipose stem/stromal cells (BMSCs or ASCs) as the mural cell types to create a novel 3D neurovascular network-on-a-chip model. Collagen 1-fibrin matrix was used to establish long-term (≥ 14 days) 3D cell culture in a perfusable microphysiological environment. RESULTS Aprotinin-supplemented endothelial cell growth medium-2 (EGM-2) supported the simultaneous formation of neuronal networks, vascular structures, mural cell differentiation, and the stability of the 3D matrix. The formed neuronal and vascular networks were morphologically and functionally characterized. Neuronal networks supported vasculature formation based on direct cell contacts and by dramatically increasing the secretion of angiogenesis-related factors in multicultures in contrast to cocultures without neurons. Both utilized mural cell types supported the formation of neurovascular networks; however, the BMSCs seemed to boost neurovascular networks to greater extent. CONCLUSIONS Overall, our study provides a novel human neurovascular network model that is applicable for creating in vivo-like tissue models with intrinsic neurovascular interactions. The 3D neurovascular network model on chip forms an initial platform for the development of vascularized and innervated organ-on-chip and further body-on-chip concepts and offers the possibility for mechanistic studies on neurovascular communication both under healthy and in disease conditions. Video Abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lotta Isosaari
- NeuroGroup, Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
- Adult Stem Cell Group, Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
- Research, Development and Innovation Centre, Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland
| | - Hanna Vuorenpää
- Adult Stem Cell Group, Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
- Research, Development and Innovation Centre, Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland
| | - Alma Yrjänäinen
- Adult Stem Cell Group, Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
- Research, Development and Innovation Centre, Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland
| | - Fikret Emre Kapucu
- NeuroGroup, Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
| | - Minna Kelloniemi
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland
| | | | - Susanna Miettinen
- Adult Stem Cell Group, Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland
- Research, Development and Innovation Centre, Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland
| | - Susanna Narkilahti
- NeuroGroup, Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University, Tampere, Finland.
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Winkelman MA, Dai G. Bioengineered perfused human brain microvascular networks enhance neural progenitor cell survival, neurogenesis, and maturation. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2023; 9:eaaz9499. [PMID: 37163593 PMCID: PMC10171804 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.aaz9499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Neural progenitor cells (NPCs) have the capability to self-renew and differentiate into neurons and glial cells. In the adult brain, NPCs are found near brain microvascular networks (BMVNs) in specialized microenvironments called the neurovascular niche (NVN). Although several in vitro NVN models have been previously reported, most do not properly recapitulate the intimate cellular interactions between NPCs and perfused brain microvessels. Here, we developed perfused BMVNs composed of primary human brain endothelial cells, pericytes, and astrocytes within microfluidic devices. When induced pluripotent stem cell-derived NPCs were introduced into BMVNs, we found that NPC survival, neurogenesis, and maturation were enhanced. The application of flow during BMVN coculture was also beneficial for neuron differentiation. Collectively, our work highlighted the important role of BMVNs and flow in NPC self-renewal and neurogenesis, as well as demonstrated our model's potential to study the biological and physical interactions of human NVN in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Max A. Winkelman
- Department of Bioengineering, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, USA
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Schreiber S, Arndt P, Meuth SG, Dityatev A, Mattern H. Brain microvascular disease and functional network connectivity-a call for a stage-based approach. Brain Commun 2023; 5:fcad135. [PMID: 37180994 PMCID: PMC10171228 DOI: 10.1093/braincomms/fcad135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Revised: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 04/21/2023] [Indexed: 05/16/2023] Open
Abstract
This scientific commentary refers to 'Functional connectivity in older adults-the effect of cerebral small vessel disease' by Drenth et al. (https://doi.org/10.1093/braincomms/fcad126).
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefanie Schreiber
- Correspondence to: Stefanie Schreiber Department of Neurology, Otto von Guericke University, DZNE within the Helmholtz Association, Magdeburg 39120, Germany E-mail:
| | | | - Sven G Meuth
- Department of Neurology, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf 40225, Germany
| | - Alexander Dityatev
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) within the Helmholtz Association, Magdeburg 39120, Germany
- Center for Behavioral Brain Sciences (CBBS), Magdeburg 39120, Germany
- Medical Faculty, Otto von Guericke University, Magdeburg 39120, Germany
| | - Hendrik Mattern
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) within the Helmholtz Association, Magdeburg 39120, Germany
- Center for Behavioral Brain Sciences (CBBS), Magdeburg 39120, Germany
- Department of Biomedical Magnetic Resonance, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg, Magdeburg 39120, Germany
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Li Y, Wang ML, Zhang B, Fan XX, Tang Q, Yu X, Li LN, Fan AR, Chang HS, Zhang LZ. Antidepressant-Like Effect and Mechanism of Ginsenoside Rd on Rodent Models of Depression. Drug Des Devel Ther 2022; 16:843-861. [PMID: 35370402 PMCID: PMC8974469 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s351421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 03/03/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Background There is growing evidence to suggest that ginsenoside Rd (GRd) has a therapeutic effect on depression, but the specific mechanisms behind its activity require further study. Objective This study is designed to investigate the antidepressant-like effect and underlying mechanisms of GRd. Methods In this study, the behavioral despair mouse model of depression and chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) rat model of depression were established to explore the effects of GRd on depression-like behavior and its underlying mechanisms. Behavioral tests were used to evaluate the replication of animal models and depression-like behaviors. The hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) blocker 2-methoxyestradiol (2-ME) was injected to determine the role of HIF-1α in the antidepressant-like effect of GRd. In addition, molecular biology techniques were used to determine the mRNA and protein expression of HIF-1ɑ signaling pathway and synaptic plasticity-related regulators, that is synapsin 1 (SYN 1) and postsynaptic density protein 95 (PSD 95). In silico binding interaction studies of GRd with focused target proteins were performed using molecular docking to predict the affinity and optimal binding mode between ligands and receptors. Results Our data show that GRd significantly reversed depression-like behavior and promoted mRNA and protein expression of HIF-1ɑ signaling pathway and synaptic plasticity-related regulators. However, the antidepressant-like effect of GRd disappeared upon inhibition of HIF-1α expression following administration of 2-ME. Furthermore, molecular docking results showed that GRd possessed significant binding affinity for HIF-1α, VEGF, and VEGFR-2. Conclusion Our results show that GRd exhibits significant antidepressant-like effect and that HIF-1α signaling pathway is a promising target for the treatment of depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Li
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 102488, People's Republic of China
| | - Mei-Ling Wang
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 102488, People's Republic of China
| | - Bo Zhang
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 102488, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiao-Xu Fan
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 102488, People's Republic of China
| | - Qin Tang
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 102488, People's Republic of China
| | - Xue Yu
- School of Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 102488, People's Republic of China
| | - Li-Na Li
- School of Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 102488, People's Republic of China
| | - Ang-Ran Fan
- School of Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 102488, People's Republic of China
| | - Hong-Sheng Chang
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 102488, People's Republic of China
| | - Lan-Zhen Zhang
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 102488, People's Republic of China
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Mezu-Ndubuisi OJ, Maheshwari A. Role of the Endothelium in Neonatal Diseases. NEWBORN 2022; 1:44-57. [PMID: 35754998 PMCID: PMC9217741 DOI: 10.5005/jp-journals-11002-0025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
In both fetal and neonatal physiologic and pathologic processes in most organs, endothelial cells are known to play critical roles. Although the endothelium is one of the most ubiquitous cell type in the body, the tight adherence to the blood vessel wall has made it difficult to study their diverse function and structure. In this article, we have reviewed endothelial cell origins and explored their heterogeneity in terms of structure, function, developmental changes, and their role in inflammatory and infectious diseases. We have also attempted to evaluate the untapped therapeutic potentials of endothelial cells in neonatal disease. This article comprises various peer-reviewed studies, including ours, and an extensive database literature search from EMBASE, PubMed, and Scopus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olachi J Mezu-Ndubuisi
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin, United States of America
| | - Akhil Maheshwari
- Global Newborn Society, Clarksville, Maryland, United States of America
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11
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Bhattacharya A, Choi WWY, Muffat J, Li Y. Modeling Developmental Brain Diseases Using Human Pluripotent Stem Cells-Derived Brain Organoids - Progress and Perspective. J Mol Biol 2021; 434:167386. [PMID: 34883115 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2021.167386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2021] [Revised: 11/26/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Developmental brain diseases encompass a group of conditions resulting from genetic or environmental perturbations during early development. Despite the increased research attention in recent years following recognition of the prevalence of these diseases, there is still a significant lack of knowledge of their etiology and treatment options. The genetic and clinical heterogeneity of these diseases, in addition to the limitations of experimental animal models, contribute to this difficulty. In this regard, the advent of brain organoid technology has provided a new means to study the cause and progression of developmental brain diseases in vitro. Derived from human pluripotent stem cells, brain organoids have been shown to recapitulate key developmental milestones of the early human brain. Combined with technological advancements in genome editing, tissue engineering, electrophysiology, and multi-omics analysis, brain organoids have expanded the frontiers of human neurobiology, providing valuable insight into the cellular and molecular mechanisms of normal and pathological brain development. This review will summarize the current progress of applying brain organoids to model human developmental brain diseases and discuss the challenges that need to be overcome to further advance their utility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Afrin Bhattacharya
- Program in Developmental and Stem Cell Biology, The Hospital for Sick Children, 686 Bay Street, Toronto, ON M5G 0A4, Canada; The University of Toronto, Department of Molecular Genetics, 1 King's College Circle, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Wendy W Y Choi
- Program in Developmental and Stem Cell Biology, The Hospital for Sick Children, 686 Bay Street, Toronto, ON M5G 0A4, Canada; The University of Toronto, Department of Molecular Genetics, 1 King's College Circle, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada; Program in Genetics and Genome Biology, The Hospital for Sick Children, 686 Bay Street, Toronto, ON M5G 0A4, Canada
| | - Julien Muffat
- Program in Developmental and Stem Cell Biology, The Hospital for Sick Children, 686 Bay Street, Toronto, ON M5G 0A4, Canada; The University of Toronto, Department of Molecular Genetics, 1 King's College Circle, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada; Program in Neurosciences and Mental Health, The Hospital for Sick Children, 686 Bay Street, Toronto, ON M5G 0A4, Canada
| | - Yun Li
- Program in Developmental and Stem Cell Biology, The Hospital for Sick Children, 686 Bay Street, Toronto, ON M5G 0A4, Canada; The University of Toronto, Department of Molecular Genetics, 1 King's College Circle, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada.
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12
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Peguera B, Segarra M, Acker-Palmer A. Neurovascular crosstalk coordinates the central nervous system development. Curr Opin Neurobiol 2021; 69:202-213. [PMID: 34077852 PMCID: PMC8411665 DOI: 10.1016/j.conb.2021.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2021] [Revised: 04/18/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Purpose of the review: The synchronic development of vascular and nervous systems is orchestrated by common molecules that regulate the communication between both systems. The identification of these common guiding cues and the developmental processes regulated by neurovascular communication are slowly emerging. In this review, we describe the molecules modulating the neurovascular development and their impact in processes such as angiogenesis, neurogenesis, neuronal migration, and brain homeostasis. Recent findings: Blood vessels not only are involved in nutrient and oxygen supply of the central nervous system (CNS) but also exert instrumental functions controlling developmental neurogenesis, CNS cytoarchitecture, and neuronal plasticity. Conversely, neurons modulate CNS vascularization and brain endothelial properties such as blood–brain barrier and vascular hyperemia. Summary: The integration of the active role of endothelial cells in the development and maintenance of neuronal function is important to obtain a more holistic view of the CNS complexity and also to understand how the vasculature is involved in neuropathological conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Blanca Peguera
- Neuro and Vascular Guidance, Buchmann Institute for Molecular Life Sciences (BMLS) and Institute of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, Max-von-Laue-Str. 15, D-60438, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Marta Segarra
- Neuro and Vascular Guidance, Buchmann Institute for Molecular Life Sciences (BMLS) and Institute of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, Max-von-Laue-Str. 15, D-60438, Frankfurt am Main, Germany; Cardio-Pulmonary Institute (CPI), Max-von-Laue-Str. 15, Frankfurt am Main, D-60438, Germany
| | - Amparo Acker-Palmer
- Neuro and Vascular Guidance, Buchmann Institute for Molecular Life Sciences (BMLS) and Institute of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, Max-von-Laue-Str. 15, D-60438, Frankfurt am Main, Germany; Cardio-Pulmonary Institute (CPI), Max-von-Laue-Str. 15, Frankfurt am Main, D-60438, Germany; Max Planck Institute for Brain Research, Max-von-Laue-Str. 4 Frankfurt am Main, 60438, Germany.
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13
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Chico TJA, Kugler EC. Cerebrovascular development: mechanisms and experimental approaches. Cell Mol Life Sci 2021; 78:4377-4398. [PMID: 33688979 PMCID: PMC8164590 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-021-03790-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2020] [Revised: 02/04/2021] [Accepted: 02/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The cerebral vasculature plays a central role in human health and disease and possesses several unique anatomic, functional and molecular characteristics. Despite their importance, the mechanisms that determine cerebrovascular development are less well studied than other vascular territories. This is in part due to limitations of existing models and techniques for visualisation and manipulation of the cerebral vasculature. In this review we summarise the experimental approaches used to study the cerebral vessels and the mechanisms that contribute to their development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy J A Chico
- Department of Infection, Immunity and Cardiovascular Disease, Medical School, University of Sheffield, Beech Hill Road, Sheffield, S10 2RX, UK.
- The Bateson Centre, Firth Court, University of Sheffield, Western Bank, Sheffield, S10 2TN, UK.
- Insigneo Institute for in Silico Medicine, The Pam Liversidge Building, Sheffield, S1 3JD, UK.
| | - Elisabeth C Kugler
- Department of Infection, Immunity and Cardiovascular Disease, Medical School, University of Sheffield, Beech Hill Road, Sheffield, S10 2RX, UK.
- The Bateson Centre, Firth Court, University of Sheffield, Western Bank, Sheffield, S10 2TN, UK.
- Insigneo Institute for in Silico Medicine, The Pam Liversidge Building, Sheffield, S1 3JD, UK.
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14
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Kay VR, Rätsep MT, Figueiró-Filho EA, Croy BA. Preeclampsia may influence offspring neuroanatomy and cognitive function: a role for placental growth factor†. Biol Reprod 2020; 101:271-283. [PMID: 31175349 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioz095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2018] [Revised: 01/30/2019] [Accepted: 06/06/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Preeclampsia (PE) is a common pregnancy complication affecting 3-5% of women. Preeclampsia is diagnosed clinically as new-onset hypertension with associated end organ damage after 20 weeks of gestation. Despite being diagnosed as a maternal syndrome, fetal experience of PE is a developmental insult with lifelong cognitive consequences. These cognitive alterations are associated with distorted neuroanatomy and cerebrovasculature, including a higher risk of stroke. The pathophysiology of a PE pregnancy is complex, with many factors potentially able to affect fetal development. Deficient pro-angiogenic factor expression is one aspect that may impair fetal vascularization, alter brain structure, and affect future cognition. Of the pro-angiogenic growth factors, placental growth factor (PGF) is strongly linked to PE. Concentrations of PGF are inappropriately low in maternal blood both before and during a PE gestation. Fetal concentrations of PGF appear to mirror maternal circulating concentrations. Using Pgf-/- mice that may model effects of PE on offspring, we demonstrated altered central nervous system vascularization, neuroanatomy, and behavior. Overall, we propose that development of the fetal brain is impaired in PE, making the offspring of preeclamptic pregnancies a unique cohort with greater risk of altered cognition and cerebrovasculature. These individuals may benefit from early interventions, either pharmacological or environmental. The early neonatal period may be a promising window for intervention while the developing brain retains plasticity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa R Kay
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Matthew T Rätsep
- Department of Medicine, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - B Anne Croy
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
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15
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PRDM16 orchestrates angiogenesis via neural differentiation in the developing brain. Cell Death Differ 2020; 27:2313-2329. [PMID: 32015502 DOI: 10.1038/s41418-020-0504-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2019] [Revised: 01/17/2020] [Accepted: 01/21/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Angiogenesis plays crucial roles in maintaining the complex operation of central nervous system (CNS) development. The architecture of communication between neurogenesis and angiogenesis is essential to maintain normal brain development and function. Hence, any disruption of neuron-vascular communications may lead to the pathophysiology of cerebrovascular diseases and blood-brain barrier (BBB) dysfunction. Here we demonstrate that neural differentiation and communication are required for vascular development. Regarding the cellular and molecular mechanism, our results show that PRDM16 activity determines the production of mature neurons and their specific positions in the neocortex. In the cortical plate (CP), aberrant neurons fail to secrete modular calcium-binding protein 1 (SMOC1), an important neuronal signal that participates in neurovascular communication to regulate CNS angiogenesis. Neuronal SMOC1 interacts with TGFBR1 by activating the transcription factors phospho-Smad2/3 to convey intercellular signals to endothelial cells (ECs) in the TGF-β-Smad signaling pathway. Together, our results highlight a crucial coordinated neurovascular development process orchestrated by PRDM16 and reveal the importance of intimate communication for building the neurovascular network during brain development.
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16
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Zhang T, Wu C, Yang X, Liu Y, Yang H, Yuan L, Liu Y, Sun S, Yang J. Pseudoginsenoside-F11 Protects against Transient Cerebral Ischemia Injury in Rats Involving Repressing Calcium Overload. Neuroscience 2019; 411:86-104. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2019.05.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2018] [Revised: 05/06/2019] [Accepted: 05/15/2019] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
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17
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Martín-Segura A, Casadomé-Perales Á, Fazzari P, Mas JM, Artigas L, Valls R, Nebreda AR, Dotti CG. Aging Increases Hippocampal DUSP2 by a Membrane Cholesterol Loss-Mediated RTK/p38MAPK Activation Mechanism. Front Neurol 2019; 10:675. [PMID: 31293510 PMCID: PMC6603139 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2019.00675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2019] [Accepted: 06/10/2019] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Numerous studies suggest that the increased activity of p38MAPK plays an important role in the abnormal immune and inflammatory response observed in the course of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease. On the other hand, high levels of p38MAPK are present in the brain during normal aging, suggesting the existence of mechanisms that keep the p38MAPK-regulated pro-inflammatory activity within physiological limits. In this study, we show that high p38MAPK activity in the hippocampus of old mice is in part due to the reduction in membrane cholesterol that constitutively occurs in the aging brain. Mechanistically, membrane cholesterol reduction increases p38MAPK activity through the stimulation of a subset of tyrosine kinase receptors (RTKs). In turn, activated p38MAPK increases the expression and activity of the phosphatase DUSP2, which is known to reduce the activity of different MAPKs, including p38MAPK. These results suggest that the loss of membrane cholesterol that constitutively occurs with age takes part in a negative-feedback loop that keeps p38MAPK activity levels within physiological range. Thus, conditions that increase p38MAPK activity such as cellular stressors or that inhibit DUSP2 will amplify inflammatory activity with its consequent deleterious functional changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adrián Martín-Segura
- Department of Molecular Neuropathology, Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa, CSIC/UAM, Madrid, Spain.,Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, United States
| | - Álvaro Casadomé-Perales
- Department of Molecular Neuropathology, Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa, CSIC/UAM, Madrid, Spain
| | - Pietro Fazzari
- Department of Molecular Neuropathology, Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa, CSIC/UAM, Madrid, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Príncipe Felipe, Valencia, Spain
| | | | | | | | - Angel R Nebreda
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Barcelona, Spain.,Institució Catalana de Recerca i Estudis Avançats, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Carlos G Dotti
- Department of Molecular Neuropathology, Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa, CSIC/UAM, Madrid, Spain
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18
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Song L, Yuan X, Jones Z, Griffin K, Zhou Y, Ma T, Li Y. Assembly of Human Stem Cell-Derived Cortical Spheroids and Vascular Spheroids to Model 3-D Brain-like Tissues. Sci Rep 2019; 9:5977. [PMID: 30979929 PMCID: PMC6461701 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-42439-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 97] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2018] [Accepted: 04/01/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Human cerebral organoids derived from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) provide novel tools for recapitulating the cytoarchitecture of human brain and for studying biological mechanisms of neurological disorders. However, the heterotypic interactions of neurovascular units, composed of neurons, pericytes, astrocytes, and brain microvascular endothelial cells, in brain-like tissues are less investigated. The objective of this study is to investigate the impacts of neural spheroids and vascular spheroids interactions on the regional brain-like tissue patterning in cortical spheroids derived from human iPSCs. Hybrid neurovascular spheroids were constructed by fusion of human iPSC-derived cortical neural progenitor cell (iNPC) spheroids, endothelial cell (iEC) spheroids, and the supporting human mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). Single hybrid spheroids were constructed at different iNPC: iEC: MSC ratios of 4:2:0, 3:2:1 2:2:2, and 1:2:3 in low-attachment 96-well plates. The incorporation of MSCs upregulated the secretion levels of cytokines VEGF-A, PGE2, and TGF-β1 in hybrid spheroid system. In addition, tri-cultured spheroids had high levels of TBR1 (deep cortical layer VI) and Nkx2.1 (ventral cells), and matrix remodeling genes, MMP2 and MMP3, as well as Notch-1, indicating the crucial role of matrix remodeling and cell-cell communications on cortical spheroid and organoid patterning. Moreover, tri-culture system elevated blood-brain barrier gene expression (e.g., GLUT-1), CD31, and tight junction protein ZO1 expression. Treatment with AMD3100, a CXCR4 antagonist, showed the immobilization of MSCs during spheroid fusion, indicating a CXCR4-dependent manner of hMSC migration and homing. This forebrain-like model has potential applications in understanding heterotypic cell-cell interactions and novel drug screening in diseased human brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liqing Song
- Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, FAMU-FSU College of Engineering, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL, USA
| | - Xuegang Yuan
- Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, FAMU-FSU College of Engineering, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL, USA
| | - Zachary Jones
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida, USA
| | - Kyle Griffin
- Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, FAMU-FSU College of Engineering, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL, USA
| | - Yi Zhou
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida, USA
| | - Teng Ma
- Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, FAMU-FSU College of Engineering, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL, USA.
| | - Yan Li
- Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, FAMU-FSU College of Engineering, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL, USA.
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19
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Studying Heterotypic Cell⁻Cell Interactions in the Human Brain Using Pluripotent Stem Cell Models for Neurodegeneration. Cells 2019; 8:cells8040299. [PMID: 30939814 PMCID: PMC6523455 DOI: 10.3390/cells8040299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2019] [Revised: 03/26/2019] [Accepted: 03/29/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Human cerebral organoids derived from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) provide novel tools for recapitulating the cytoarchitecture of the human brain and for studying biological mechanisms of neurological disorders. However, the heterotypic interactions of neurovascular units, composed of neurons, pericytes (i.e., the tissue resident mesenchymal stromal cells), astrocytes, and brain microvascular endothelial cells, in brain-like tissues are less investigated. In addition, most cortical organoids lack a microglia component, the resident immune cells in the brain. Impairment of the blood-brain barrier caused by improper crosstalk between neural cells and vascular cells is associated with many neurodegenerative disorders. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), with a phenotype overlapping with pericytes, have promotion effects on neurogenesis and angiogenesis, which are mainly attributed to secreted growth factors and extracellular matrices. As the innate macrophages of the central nervous system, microglia regulate neuronal activities and promote neuronal differentiation by secreting neurotrophic factors and pro-/anti-inflammatory molecules. Neuronal-microglia interactions mediated by chemokines signaling can be modulated in vitro for recapitulating microglial activities during neurodegenerative disease progression. In this review, we discussed the cellular interactions and the physiological roles of neural cells with other cell types including endothelial cells and microglia based on iPSC models. The therapeutic roles of MSCs in treating neural degeneration and pathological roles of microglia in neurodegenerative disease progression were also discussed.
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20
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Kou ZW, Mo JL, Wu KW, Qiu MH, Huang YL, Tao F, Lei Y, Lv LL, Sun FY. Vascular endothelial growth factor increases the function of calcium-impermeable AMPA receptor GluA2 subunit in astrocytes via activation of protein kinase C signaling pathway. Glia 2019; 67:1344-1358. [PMID: 30883902 PMCID: PMC6594043 DOI: 10.1002/glia.23609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2018] [Revised: 01/23/2019] [Accepted: 02/19/2019] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Astrocytic calcium signaling plays pivotal roles in the maintenance of neural functions and neurovascular coupling in the brain. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), an original biological substance of vessels, regulates the movement of calcium and potassium ions across neuronal membrane. In this study, we investigated whether and how VEGF regulates glutamate-induced calcium influx in astrocytes. We used cultured astrocytes combined with living cell imaging to detect the calcium influx induced by glutamate. We found that VEGF quickly inhibited the glutamate/hypoxia-induced calcium influx, which was blocked by an AMPA receptor antagonist CNQX, but not D-AP5 or UBP310, NMDA and kainate receptor antagonist, respectively. VEGF increased phosphorylation of PKCα and AMPA receptor subunit GluA2 in astrocytes, and these effects were diminished by SU1498 or calphostin C, a PKC inhibitor. With the pHluorin assay, we observed that VEGF significantly increased membrane insertion and expression of GluA2, but not GluA1, in astrocytes. Moreover, siRNA-produced knockdown of GluA2 expression in astrocytes reversed the inhibitory effect of VEGF on glutamate-induced calcium influx. Together, our results suggest that VEGF reduces glutamate-induced calcium influx in astrocytes via enhancing PKCα-mediated GluA2 phosphorylation, which in turn promotes the membrane insertion and expression of GluA2 and causes AMPA receptors to switch from calcium-permeable to calcium-impermeable receptors, thereby inhibiting astrocytic calcium influx. The present study reveals that excitatory neurotransmitter glutamate-mediated astrocytic calcium influx can be regulated by vascular biological factor via activation of AMPA receptor GluA2 subunit and uncovers a novel coupling mechanism between astrocytes and endothelial cells within the neurovascular unit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeng-Wei Kou
- Department of Neurobiology and State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, PR China.,Institute for Basic Research on Aging and Medicine of School of Basic Medical Sciences and National Clinical Research Center for Aging and Medicine, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Jia-Lin Mo
- Department of Neurobiology and State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, PR China.,Institute for Basic Research on Aging and Medicine of School of Basic Medical Sciences and National Clinical Research Center for Aging and Medicine, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Kun-Wei Wu
- Department of Neurobiology and State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, PR China.,Department of System Biology for Medicine, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Mei-Hong Qiu
- Department of Neurobiology and State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, PR China.,Institute for Basic Research on Aging and Medicine of School of Basic Medical Sciences and National Clinical Research Center for Aging and Medicine, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Ya-Lin Huang
- Department of Neurobiology and State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, PR China.,Department of System Biology for Medicine, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Feng Tao
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University College of Dentistry, Dallas, Texas
| | - Yu Lei
- Department of Neurobiology and State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, PR China.,Institute for Basic Research on Aging and Medicine of School of Basic Medical Sciences and National Clinical Research Center for Aging and Medicine, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Ling-Ling Lv
- Department of Neurobiology and State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, PR China.,Institute for Basic Research on Aging and Medicine of School of Basic Medical Sciences and National Clinical Research Center for Aging and Medicine, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Feng-Yan Sun
- Department of Neurobiology and State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, PR China.,Institute for Basic Research on Aging and Medicine of School of Basic Medical Sciences and National Clinical Research Center for Aging and Medicine, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, PR China.,Department of System Biology for Medicine, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, PR China
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21
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Shen J, Xiao R, Bair J, Wang F, Vandenberghe LH, Dartt D, Baranov P, Ng YSE. Novel engineered, membrane-localized variants of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) protect retinal ganglion cells: a proof-of-concept study. Cell Death Dis 2018; 9:1018. [PMID: 30282966 PMCID: PMC6170416 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-018-1049-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2018] [Revised: 08/19/2018] [Accepted: 09/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Endogenous vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF-A) can protect retinal ganglion cells (RGC) from stress-induced cell death in ocular hypertensive glaucoma. To exploit the neuroprotective function of VEGF-A for therapeutic application in ocular disorders such as glaucoma while minimizing unwanted vascular side effects, we engineered two novel VEGF variants, eVEGF-38 and eVEGF-53. These variants of the diffusible VEGF-A isoform VEGF121 are expressed as dimeric concatamers and remain tethered to the cell membrane, thus restricting the effects of the engineered VEGF to the cells expressing the protein. For comparison, we tested a Myc-tagged version of VEGF189, an isoform that binds tightly to the extracellular matrix and heparan sulfate proteoglycans at the cell surface, supporting only autocrine and localized juxtacrine signaling. In human retinal endothelial cells (hREC), expression of eVEGF-38, eVEGF-53, or VEGF189 increased VEGFR2 phosphorylation without increasing expression of pro-inflammatory markers, relative to VEGF165 protein and vector controls. AAV2-mediated transduction of eVEGF-38, eVEGF-53, or VEGF189 into primary mouse RGC promoted synaptogenesis and increased the average total length of neurites and axons per RGC by ~ 12-fold, an increase that was mediated by VEGFR2 and PI3K/AKT signaling. Expression of eVEGF-38 in primary RGC enhanced expression of genes associated with neuritogenesis, axon outgrowth, axon guidance, and cell survival. Transduction of primary RGC with any of the membrane-associated VEGF constructs increased survival both under normal culture conditions and in the presence of the cytotoxic chemicals H2O2 (via VEGFR2/PI3K/AKT signaling) and N-methyl-d-aspartate (via reduced Ca2+ influx). Moreover, RGC number was increased in mouse embryonic stem cell-derived retinal organoid cultures transduced with the eVEGF-53 construct. The novel, engineered VEGF variants eVEGF-38 and eVEGF-53 show promise as potential therapeutics for retinal RGC neuroprotection when delivered using a gene therapy approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junhui Shen
- Harvard Ophthalmology, Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Boston, MA, USA.,Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Eye Center of the 2nd Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Ru Xiao
- Harvard Ophthalmology, Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jeffrey Bair
- Harvard Ophthalmology, Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Fang Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Luk H Vandenberghe
- Harvard Ophthalmology, Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Boston, MA, USA.,Grousbeck Gene Therapy Center, Ocular Genomics Institute, Mass Eye and Ear, Boston, MA, USA.,The Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Darlene Dartt
- Harvard Ophthalmology, Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Petr Baranov
- Harvard Ophthalmology, Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Yin Shan Eric Ng
- Harvard Ophthalmology, Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Boston, MA, USA.
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22
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Paredes I, Himmels P, Ruiz de Almodóvar C. Neurovascular Communication during CNS Development. Dev Cell 2018; 45:10-32. [PMID: 29634931 DOI: 10.1016/j.devcel.2018.01.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 140] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2017] [Revised: 11/22/2017] [Accepted: 01/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
A precise communication between the nervous and the vascular systems is crucial for proper formation and function of the central nervous system (CNS). Interestingly, this communication does not only occur by neural cells regulating the growth and properties of the vasculature, but new studies show that blood vessels actively control different neurodevelopmental processes. Here, we review the current knowledge on how neurons in particular influence growing blood vessels during CNS development and on how vessels participate in shaping the neural compartment. We also review the identified molecular mechanisms of this bidirectional communication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isidora Paredes
- Biochemistry Center, Heidelberg University, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; Interdisciplinary Center for Neurosciences, Heidelberg University, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Patricia Himmels
- Biochemistry Center, Heidelberg University, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; Interdisciplinary Center for Neurosciences, Heidelberg University, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Carmen Ruiz de Almodóvar
- Biochemistry Center, Heidelberg University, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; Interdisciplinary Center for Neurosciences, Heidelberg University, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany.
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