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Sakaguchi K, Tawata S. Giftedness and atypical sexual differentiation: enhanced perceptual functioning through estrogen deficiency instead of androgen excess. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 15:1343759. [PMID: 38752176 PMCID: PMC11094242 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2024.1343759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Syndromic autism spectrum conditions (ASC), such as Klinefelter syndrome, also manifest hypogonadism. Compared to the popular Extreme Male Brain theory, the Enhanced Perceptual Functioning model explains the connection between ASC, savant traits, and giftedness more seamlessly, and their co-emergence with atypical sexual differentiation. Overexcitability of primary sensory inputs generates a relative enhancement of local to global processing of stimuli, hindering the abstraction of communication signals, in contrast to the extraordinary local information processing skills in some individuals. Weaker inhibitory function through gamma-aminobutyric acid type A (GABAA) receptors and the atypicality of synapse formation lead to this difference, and the formation of unique neural circuits that process external information. Additionally, deficiency in monitoring inner sensory information leads to alexithymia (inability to distinguish one's own emotions), which can be caused by hypoactivity of estrogen and oxytocin in the interoceptive neural circuits, comprising the anterior insular and cingulate gyri. These areas are also part of the Salience Network, which switches between the Central Executive Network for external tasks and the Default Mode Network for self-referential mind wandering. Exploring the possibility that estrogen deficiency since early development interrupts GABA shift, causing sensory processing atypicality, it helps to evaluate the co-occurrence of ASC with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, dyslexia, and schizophrenia based on phenotypic and physiological bases. It also provides clues for understanding the common underpinnings of these neurodevelopmental disorders and gifted populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kikue Sakaguchi
- Research Department, National Institution for Academic Degrees and Quality Enhancement of Higher Education (NIAD-QE), Kodaira-shi, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shintaro Tawata
- Graduate School of Human Sciences, Sophia University, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, Japan
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2
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Zhu F, Shi Q, Jiang YH, Zhang YQ, Zhao H. Impaired synaptic function and hyperexcitability of the pyramidal neurons in the prefrontal cortex of autism-associated Shank3 mutant dogs. Mol Autism 2024; 15:9. [PMID: 38297387 PMCID: PMC10829216 DOI: 10.1186/s13229-024-00587-4] [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: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/02/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND SHANK3 gene is a highly replicated causative gene for autism spectrum disorder and has been well characterized in multiple Shank3 mutant rodent models. When compared to rodents, domestic dogs are excellent animal models in which to study social cognition as they closely interact with humans and exhibit similar social behaviors. Using CRISPR/Cas9 editing, we recently generated a dog model carrying Shank3 mutations, which displayed a spectrum of autism-like behaviors, such as social impairment and heightened anxiety. However, the neural mechanism underlying these abnormal behaviors remains to be identified. METHODS We used Shank3 mutant dog models to examine possible relationships between Shank3 mutations and neuronal dysfunction. We studied electrophysiological properties and the synaptic transmission of pyramidal neurons from acute brain slices of the prefrontal cortex (PFC). We also examined dendrite elaboration and dendritic spine morphology in the PFC using biocytin staining and Golgi staining. We analyzed the postsynaptic density using electron microscopy. RESULTS We established a protocol for the electrophysiological recording of canine brain slices and revealed that excitatory synaptic transmission onto PFC layer 2/3 pyramidal neurons in Shank3 heterozygote dogs was impaired, and this was accompanied by reduced dendrite complexity and spine density when compared to wild-type dogs. Postsynaptic density structures were also impaired in Shank3 mutants; however, pyramidal neurons exhibited hyperexcitability. LIMITATIONS Causal links between impaired PFC pyramidal neuron function and behavioral alterations remain unclear. Further experiments such as manipulating PFC neuronal activity or restoring synaptic transmission in Shank3 mutant dogs are required to assess PFC roles in altered social behaviors. CONCLUSIONS Our study demonstrated the feasibility of using canine brain slices as a model system to study neuronal circuitry and disease. Shank3 haploinsufficiency causes morphological and functional abnormalities in PFC pyramidal neurons, supporting the notion that Shank3 mutant dogs are new and valid animal models for autism research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feipeng Zhu
- State Key Laboratory for Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
| | - Qi Shi
- State Key Laboratory for Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
- College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Yong-Hui Jiang
- Department of Genetics and Neuroscience, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, 06510, USA
| | - Yong Q Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China.
- College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China.
- School of Life Sciences, Hubei University, Wuhan, 430415, China.
| | - Hui Zhao
- State Key Laboratory for Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China.
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China.
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3
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Shih YC, Nelson L, Janeček M, Peixoto RT. Late onset and regional heterogeneity of synaptic deficits in cortical PV interneurons of Shank3B -/- mice. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.11.23.568500. [PMID: 38045377 PMCID: PMC10690261 DOI: 10.1101/2023.11.23.568500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/05/2023]
Abstract
Epilepsy and epileptiform patterns of cortical activity are highly prevalent in autism spectrum disorders (ASDs), but the neural substrates and pathophysiological mechanisms underlying the onset of cortical dysfunction in ASD remains elusive. Reduced cortical expression of Parvalbumin (PV) has been widely observed in ASD mouse models and human postmortem studies, suggesting a crucial role of PV interneurons (PVINs) in ASD pathogenesis. Shank3B -/- mice carrying a Δ13-16 deletion in SHANK3 exhibit cortical hyperactivity during postnatal development and reduced sensory responses in cortical GABAergic interneurons in adulthood. However, whether these phenotypes are associated with PVIN dysfunction is unknown. Using whole-cell electrophysiology and a viral-based strategy to label PVINs during postnatal development, we performed a developmental characterization of AMPAR miniature excitatory postsynaptic currents (mEPSCs) in PVINs and pyramidal (PYR) neurons of layer (L) 2/3 mPFC in Shank3B -/- mice. Surprisingly, reduced mEPSC frequency was observed in both PYR and PVIN populations, but only in adulthood. At P15, when cortical hyperactivity is already observed, both neuron types exhibited normal mEPSC amplitude and frequency, suggesting that glutamatergic connectivity deficits in these neurons emerge as compensatory mechanisms. Additionally, we found normal mEPSCs in adult PVINs of L2/3 somatosensory cortex, revealing region-specific phenotypic differences of cortical PVINs in Shank3B -/- mice. Together, these results demonstrate that loss of Shank3 alters PVIN function but suggest that PVIN glutamatergic synapses are a suboptimal therapeutic target for normalizing early cortical imbalances in SHANK3-associated disorders. More broadly, these findings underscore the complexity of interneuron dysfunction in ASDs, prompting further exploration of region and developmental stage specific phenotypes for understanding and developing effective interventions.
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Wang X, Zhao Z, Guo J, Mei D, Duan Y, Zhang Y, Gou L. GABA B1 receptor knockdown in prefrontal cortex induces behavioral aberrations associated with autism spectrum disorder in mice. Brain Res Bull 2023; 202:110755. [PMID: 37678443 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2023.110755] [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: 06/14/2023] [Revised: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a set of heterogeneous neurodevelopmental disorders, characterized by social interaction deficit, stereotyped or repetitive behaviors. Apart from these core symptoms, a great number of individuals with ASD exhibit higher levels of anxiety and memory deficits. Previous studies demonstrate pronounced decrease of γ-aminobutyric acid B1 receptor (GABAB1R) protein level of frontal lobe in both ASD patients and animal models. The aim of the present study was to determine the role of GABAB1R in ASD-related behavioral aberrations. Herein, the protein and mRNA levels of GABAB1R in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) of sodium valproic acid (VPA)-induced mouse ASD model were determined by Western blot and qRT-PCR analysis, respectively. Moreover, the behavioral abnormalities in naive mice with GABAB1R knockdown mediated by recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV) were assessed in a comprehensive test battery consisted of social interaction, marble burying, self-grooming, open-field, Y-maze and novel object recognition tests. Furthermore, the action potential changes induced by GABAB1R deficiency were examined in neurons within the PFC of mouse. The results show that the mRNA and protein levels of GABAB1R in the PFC of prenatal VPA-induced mouse ASD model were decreased. Concomitantly, naive mice with GABAB1R knockdown exhibited ASD-like behaviors, such as impaired social interaction and communication, elevated stereotypes, anxiety and memory deficits. Patch-clamp recordings also revealed that GABAB1R knockdown provoked enhanced neuronal excitability by increasing action potential discharge frequencies. Overall, these findings support a notion that GABAB1R deficiency might contribute to ASD-like phenotypes, with the pathogenesis most likely resulting from enhanced neuronal excitability. SUBHEADINGS: GABAB1 Knockdown Induces Behavioral Aberrations with ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaona Wang
- Children's Hospital Affiliated to Zhengzhou University, Henan Children's Hospital, Zhengzhou Children's Hospital, Henan Key Laboratory of Children's Genetics and Metabolic Diseases, Henan Children's Neurodevelopment Engineering Research Center, Zhengzhou, China.
| | - Zhengqin Zhao
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, Guangdong, China
| | - Jisheng Guo
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Yantai Campus of Binzhou Medical University, Yantai City, Shandong, China
| | - Daoqi Mei
- Department of Neurology, Children's Hospital Affiliated to Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yongtao Duan
- Children's Hospital Affiliated to Zhengzhou University, Henan Children's Hospital, Zhengzhou Children's Hospital, Henan Key Laboratory of Children's Genetics and Metabolic Diseases, Henan Children's Neurodevelopment Engineering Research Center, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yaodong Zhang
- Children's Hospital Affiliated to Zhengzhou University, Henan Children's Hospital, Zhengzhou Children's Hospital, Henan Key Laboratory of Children's Genetics and Metabolic Diseases, Henan Children's Neurodevelopment Engineering Research Center, Zhengzhou, China.
| | - Lingshan Gou
- Peninsula Cancer Research Center, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, Shandong, China.
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5
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Park JC, Luebbers A, Dao M, Semeano A, Nguyen AM, Papakonstantinou MP, Broselid S, Yano H, Martemyanov KA, Garcia-Marcos M. Fine-tuning GPCR-mediated neuromodulation by biasing signaling through different G protein subunits. Mol Cell 2023; 83:2540-2558.e12. [PMID: 37390816 PMCID: PMC10527995 DOI: 10.1016/j.molcel.2023.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 06/02/2023] [Indexed: 07/02/2023]
Abstract
G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) mediate neuromodulation through the activation of heterotrimeric G proteins (Gαβγ). Classical models depict that G protein activation leads to a one-to-one formation of Gα-GTP and Gβγ species. Each of these species propagates signaling by independently acting on effectors, but the mechanisms by which response fidelity is ensured by coordinating Gα and Gβγ responses remain unknown. Here, we reveal a paradigm of G protein regulation whereby the neuronal protein GINIP (Gα inhibitory interacting protein) biases inhibitory GPCR responses to favor Gβγ over Gα signaling. Tight binding of GINIP to Gαi-GTP precludes its association with effectors (adenylyl cyclase) and, simultaneously, with regulator-of-G-protein-signaling (RGS) proteins that accelerate deactivation. As a consequence, Gαi-GTP signaling is dampened, whereas Gβγ signaling is enhanced. We show that this mechanism is essential to prevent the imbalances of neurotransmission that underlie increased seizure susceptibility in mice. Our findings reveal an additional layer of regulation within a quintessential mechanism of signal transduction that sets the tone of neurotransmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jong-Chan Park
- Department of Biochemistry & Cell Biology, Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston University, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Alex Luebbers
- Department of Biochemistry & Cell Biology, Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston University, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Maria Dao
- U.F. Scripps Biomedical Research, University of Florida, Jupiter, FL 33458, USA
| | - Ana Semeano
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Center for Drug Discovery, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Bouvé College of Health Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Anh Minh Nguyen
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Center for Drug Discovery, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Bouvé College of Health Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Maria P Papakonstantinou
- Department of Biochemistry & Cell Biology, Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston University, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Stefan Broselid
- Department of Biochemistry & Cell Biology, Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston University, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Hideaki Yano
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Center for Drug Discovery, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Bouvé College of Health Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | | | - Mikel Garcia-Marcos
- Department of Biochemistry & Cell Biology, Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston University, Boston, MA 02118, USA; Department of Biology, College of Arts & Sciences, Boston University, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
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6
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Ferhat AT, Verpy E, Biton A, Forget B, De Chaumont F, Mueller F, Le Sourd AM, Coqueran S, Schmitt J, Rochefort C, Rondi-Reig L, Leboucher A, Boland A, Fin B, Deleuze JF, Boeckers TM, Ey E, Bourgeron T. Excessive self-grooming, gene dysregulation and imbalance between the striosome and matrix compartments in the striatum of Shank3 mutant mice. Front Mol Neurosci 2023; 16:1139118. [PMID: 37008785 PMCID: PMC10061084 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2023.1139118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism is characterized by atypical social communication and stereotyped behaviors. Mutations in the gene encoding the synaptic scaffolding protein SHANK3 are detected in 1–2% of patients with autism and intellectual disability, but the mechanisms underpinning the symptoms remain largely unknown. Here, we characterized the behavior of Shank3Δ11/Δ11 mice from 3 to 12 months of age. We observed decreased locomotor activity, increased stereotyped self-grooming and modification of socio-sexual interaction compared to wild-type littermates. We then used RNAseq on four brain regions of the same animals to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs). DEGs were identified mainly in the striatum and were associated with synaptic transmission (e.g., Grm2, Dlgap1), G-protein-signaling pathways (e.g., Gnal, Prkcg1, and Camk2g), as well as excitation/inhibition balance (e.g., Gad2). Downregulated and upregulated genes were enriched in the gene clusters of medium-sized spiny neurons expressing the dopamine 1 (D1-MSN) and the dopamine 2 receptor (D2-MSN), respectively. Several DEGs (Cnr1, Gnal, Gad2, and Drd4) were reported as striosome markers. By studying the distribution of the glutamate decarboxylase GAD65, encoded by Gad2, we showed that the striosome compartment of Shank3Δ11/Δ11 mice was enlarged and displayed much higher expression of GAD65 compared to wild-type mice. Altogether, these results indicate altered gene expression in the striatum of Shank3-deficient mice and strongly suggest, for the first time, that the excessive self-grooming of these mice is related to an imbalance in the striatal striosome and matrix compartments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allain-Thibeault Ferhat
- Génétique Humaine et Fonctions Cognitives, Institut Pasteur, CNRS UMR 3571, IUF, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
- Department of Neuroscience, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, United States
- Zuckerman Mind Brain Behavior Institute, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
- *Correspondence: Allain-Thibeault Ferhat,
| | - Elisabeth Verpy
- Génétique Humaine et Fonctions Cognitives, Institut Pasteur, CNRS UMR 3571, IUF, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Anne Biton
- Bioinformatics and Biostatistics Hub, Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Benoît Forget
- Génétique Humaine et Fonctions Cognitives, Institut Pasteur, CNRS UMR 3571, IUF, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Fabrice De Chaumont
- Génétique Humaine et Fonctions Cognitives, Institut Pasteur, CNRS UMR 3571, IUF, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Florian Mueller
- Imagerie et Modélisation, Institut Pasteur, CNRS UMR 3691, Paris, France
| | - Anne-Marie Le Sourd
- Génétique Humaine et Fonctions Cognitives, Institut Pasteur, CNRS UMR 3571, IUF, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Sabrina Coqueran
- Génétique Humaine et Fonctions Cognitives, Institut Pasteur, CNRS UMR 3571, IUF, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Julien Schmitt
- Cerebellum Navigation and Memory Team, Institut de Biologie Paris Seine, Neurosciences Paris Seine, CNRS UMR 8246, Inserm UMR-S 1130, Sorbonne Université, Paris, France
| | - Christelle Rochefort
- Cerebellum Navigation and Memory Team, Institut de Biologie Paris Seine, Neurosciences Paris Seine, CNRS UMR 8246, Inserm UMR-S 1130, Sorbonne Université, Paris, France
| | - Laure Rondi-Reig
- Cerebellum Navigation and Memory Team, Institut de Biologie Paris Seine, Neurosciences Paris Seine, CNRS UMR 8246, Inserm UMR-S 1130, Sorbonne Université, Paris, France
| | - Aziliz Leboucher
- Génétique Humaine et Fonctions Cognitives, Institut Pasteur, CNRS UMR 3571, IUF, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Anne Boland
- Centre National de Recherche en Génomique Humaine, CEA, Université Paris-Saclay, Evry, France
| | - Bertrand Fin
- Centre National de Recherche en Génomique Humaine, CEA, Université Paris-Saclay, Evry, France
| | - Jean-François Deleuze
- Centre National de Recherche en Génomique Humaine, CEA, Université Paris-Saclay, Evry, France
- Centre d’Étude du Polymorphisme Humain, Paris, France
| | - Tobias M. Boeckers
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum für Neurodegenerative Erkrankungen, Ulm, Germany
| | - Elodie Ey
- Génétique Humaine et Fonctions Cognitives, Institut Pasteur, CNRS UMR 3571, IUF, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
- Institut de Génétique et de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire, CNRS UMR 7104, Inserm UMR-S 1258, Université de Strasbourg, Illkirch-Graffenstaden, France
| | - Thomas Bourgeron
- Génétique Humaine et Fonctions Cognitives, Institut Pasteur, CNRS UMR 3571, IUF, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
- Thomas Bourgeron,
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7
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Jeon YS, Jeong D, Kweon H, Kim JH, Kim CY, Oh Y, Lee YH, Kim CH, Kim SG, Jeong JW, Kim E, Lee SH. Adolescent Parvalbumin Expression in the Left Orbitofrontal Cortex Shapes Sociability in Female Mice. J Neurosci 2023; 43:1555-1571. [PMID: 36717231 PMCID: PMC10008055 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.0918-22.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2022] [Revised: 12/27/2022] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
The adolescent social experience is essential for the maturation of the prefrontal cortex in mammalian species. However, it still needs to be determined which cortical circuits mature with such experience and how it shapes adult social behaviors in a sex-specific manner. Here, we examined social-approaching behaviors in male and female mice after postweaning social isolation (PWSI), which deprives social experience during adolescence. We found that the PWSI, particularly isolation during late adolescence, caused an abnormal increase in social approaches (hypersociability) only in female mice. We further found that the PWSI female mice showed reduced parvalbumin (PV) expression in the left orbitofrontal cortex (OFCL). When we measured neural activity in the female OFCL, a substantial number of neurons showed higher activity when mice sniffed other mice (social sniffing) than when they sniffed an object (object sniffing). Interestingly, the PWSI significantly reduced both the number of activated neurons and the activity level during social sniffing in female mice. Similarly, the CRISPR/Cas9-mediated knockdown of PV in the OFCL during late adolescence enhanced sociability and reduced the social sniffing-induced activity in adult female mice via decreased excitability of PV+ neurons and reduced synaptic inhibition in the OFCL Moreover, optogenetic activation of excitatory neurons or optogenetic inhibition of PV+ neurons in the OFCL enhanced sociability in female mice. Our data demonstrate that the adolescent social experience is critical for the maturation of PV+ inhibitory circuits in the OFCL; this maturation shapes female social behavior via enhancing social representation in the OFCL SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Adolescent social isolation often changes adult social behaviors in mammals. Yet, we do not fully understand the sex-specific effects of social isolation and the brain areas and circuits that mediate such changes. Here, we found that adolescent social isolation causes three abnormal phenotypes in female but not male mice: hypersociability, decreased PV+ neurons in the left orbitofrontal cortex (OFCL), and decreased socially evoked activity in the OFCL Moreover, parvalbumin (PV) deletion in the OFCL in vivo caused the same phenotypes in female mice by increasing excitation compared with inhibition within the OFCL Our data suggest that adolescent social experience is required for PV maturation in the OFCL, which is critical for evoking OFCL activity that shapes social behaviors in female mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Seon Jeon
- Department of Biological Sciences, KAIST, Daejeon 34141, Korea
| | - Daun Jeong
- Department of Biological Sciences, KAIST, Daejeon 34141, Korea
| | - Hanseul Kweon
- Department of Biological Sciences, KAIST, Daejeon 34141, Korea
- Center for Synaptic Brain Dysfunctions, Institute for Basic Science, KAIST, Daejeon 34141, Korea
| | - Jae-Hyun Kim
- Department of Biological Sciences, KAIST, Daejeon 34141, Korea
| | - Choong Yeon Kim
- School of Electrical Engineering, KAIST, Daejeon 34141, Korea
| | - Youngbin Oh
- Department of Biological Sciences, KAIST, Daejeon 34141, Korea
| | - Young-Ho Lee
- Department of Biological Sciences, KAIST, Daejeon 34141, Korea
| | - Chan Hyuk Kim
- Department of Biological Sciences, KAIST, Daejeon 34141, Korea
| | - Sang-Gyu Kim
- Department of Biological Sciences, KAIST, Daejeon 34141, Korea
| | - Jae-Woong Jeong
- School of Electrical Engineering, KAIST, Daejeon 34141, Korea
| | - Eunjoon Kim
- Department of Biological Sciences, KAIST, Daejeon 34141, Korea
- Center for Synaptic Brain Dysfunctions, Institute for Basic Science, KAIST, Daejeon 34141, Korea
| | - Seung-Hee Lee
- Department of Biological Sciences, KAIST, Daejeon 34141, Korea
- Center for Synaptic Brain Dysfunctions, Institute for Basic Science, KAIST, Daejeon 34141, Korea
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8
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de Coo IF, Jesse S, Le TL, Sala C, Bourgeron T. Consensus recommendations on Epilepsy in Phelan-McDermid syndrome. Eur J Med Genet 2023; 66:104746. [PMID: 36967043 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmg.2023.104746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2022] [Revised: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2023] [Indexed: 03/28/2023]
Abstract
Phelan-McDermid syndrome (PMS) is a 22q13.3 deletion syndrome that presents with a disturbed development, neurological and psychiatric characteristics, and sometimes other comorbidities like seizures. The epilepsy manifests itself in a variety of seizure semiologies. Further diagnostics using electroencephalogram (EEG) and brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are important in conjunction with the clinical picture of the seizures to decide whether anticonvulsant therapy is necessary. As part of the development of European consensus guidelines we focussed on the prevalence and semiology of epileptic seizures in PMS associated with a pathogenic variant in the SHANK3 gene or the 22q13 deletion involving SHANK3, in order to then be able to make recommendations regarding diagnosis and therapy.
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Lee K, Mills Z, Cheung P, Cheyne JE, Montgomery JM. The Role of Zinc and NMDA Receptors in Autism Spectrum Disorders. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2022; 16:ph16010001. [PMID: 36678498 PMCID: PMC9866730 DOI: 10.3390/ph16010001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Revised: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
NMDA-type glutamate receptors are critical for synaptic plasticity in the central nervous system. Their unique properties and age-dependent arrangement of subunit types underpin their role as a coincidence detector of pre- and postsynaptic activity during brain development and maturation. NMDAR function is highly modulated by zinc, which is co-released with glutamate and concentrates in postsynaptic spines. Both NMDARs and zinc have been strongly linked to autism spectrum disorders (ASDs), suggesting that NMDARs are an important player in the beneficial effects observed with zinc in both animal models and children with ASDs. Significant evidence is emerging that these beneficial effects occur via zinc-dependent regulation of SHANK proteins, which form the backbone of the postsynaptic density. For example, dietary zinc supplementation enhances SHANK2 or SHANK3 synaptic recruitment and rescues NMDAR deficits and hypofunction in Shank3ex13-16-/- and Tbr1+/- ASD mice. Across multiple studies, synaptic changes occur in parallel with a reversal of ASD-associated behaviours, highlighting the zinc-dependent regulation of NMDARs and glutamatergic synapses as therapeutic targets for severe forms of ASDs, either pre- or postnatally. The data from rodent models set a strong foundation for future translational studies in human cells and people affected by ASDs.
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Jahan MS, Tsuzuki T, Ito T, Bhuiyan MER, Takahashi I, Takamatsu H, Kumanogoh A, Negishi T, Yukawa K. PlexinA1-deficient mice exhibit decreased cell density and augmented oxidative stress in parvalbumin-expressing interneurons in the medial prefrontal cortex. IBRO Neurosci Rep 2022; 13:500-512. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ibneur.2022.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2022] [Revised: 10/20/2022] [Accepted: 11/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
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Yoo T, Yoo YE, Kang H, Kim E. Age, brain region, and gene dosage-differential transcriptomic changes in Shank3-mutant mice. Front Mol Neurosci 2022; 15:1017512. [PMID: 36311023 PMCID: PMC9597470 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2022.1017512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2022] [Accepted: 09/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Shank3 is an abundant excitatory postsynaptic scaffolding protein implicated in various neurodevelopmental disorders, including autism spectrum disorder (ASD), Phelan-McDermid syndrome, intellectual disability, and schizophrenia. Shank3-mutant mice show various molecular, synaptic, and behavioral deficits, but little is known about how transcriptomic phenotypes vary across different ages, brain regions, and gene dosages. Here, we report transcriptomic patterns in the forebrains of juvenile and adult homozygous Shank3-mutant mice that lack exons 14–16 and also the prefrontal, hippocampal, and striatal transcriptomes in adult heterozygous and homozygous Shank3-mutant mice. The juvenile and adult mutant transcriptomes show patterns opposite from and similar to those observed in ASD (termed reverse-ASD and ASD-like patterns), respectively. The juvenile transcriptomic changes accompany synaptic upregulations and ribosomal and mitochondrial downregulations, whereas the adult transcriptome show opposite changes. The prefrontal, hippocampal, and striatal transcriptomes show differential changes in ASD-related gene expressions and biological functions associated with synapse, ribosome, mitochondria, and spliceosome. These patterns also differ across heterozygous and homozygous Shank3-mutant mice. These results suggest age, brain region, and gene dosage-differential transcriptomic changes in Shank3-mutant mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taesun Yoo
- Center for Synaptic Brain Dysfunctions, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Daejeon, South Korea
| | - Ye-Eun Yoo
- Center for Synaptic Brain Dysfunctions, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Daejeon, South Korea
| | - Hyojin Kang
- Division of National Supercomputing, Korea Institute of Science and Technology Information (KISTI), Daejeon, South Korea
| | - Eunjoon Kim
- Center for Synaptic Brain Dysfunctions, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Daejeon, South Korea
- Department of Biological Sciences, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, South Korea
- *Correspondence: Eunjoon Kim,
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12
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Recent Developments in Autism Genetic Research: A Scientometric Review from 2018 to 2022. Genes (Basel) 2022; 13:genes13091646. [PMID: 36140813 PMCID: PMC9498399 DOI: 10.3390/genes13091646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Revised: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Genetic research in Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) has progressed tremendously in recent decades. Dozens of genetic loci and hundreds of alterations in the genetic sequence, expression, epigenetic transformation, and interactions with other physiological and environmental systems have been found to increase the likelihood of developing ASD. There is therefore a need to represent this wide-ranging yet voluminous body of literature in a systematic manner so that this information can be synthesised and understood at a macro level. Therefore, this study made use of scientometric methods, particularly document co-citation analysis (DCA), to systematically review literature on ASD genetic research from 2018 to 2022. A total of 14,818 articles were extracted from Scopus and analyzed with CiteSpace. An optimized DCA analysis revealed that recent literature on ASD genetic research can be broadly organised into 12 major clusters representing various sub-topics. These clusters are briefly described in the manuscript and potential applications of this study are discussed.
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13
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Jung S, Park M. Shank postsynaptic scaffolding proteins in autism spectrum disorder: Mouse models and their dysfunctions in behaviors, synapses, and molecules. Pharmacol Res 2022; 182:106340. [DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2022.106340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2022] [Revised: 06/29/2022] [Accepted: 06/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
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14
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Fortier AV, Meisner OC, Nair AR, Chang SWC. Prefrontal Circuits guiding Social Preference: Implications in Autism Spectrum Disorder. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2022; 141:104803. [PMID: 35908593 PMCID: PMC10122914 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2022.104803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2022] [Revised: 07/10/2022] [Accepted: 07/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Although Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is increasing in diagnostic prevalence, treatment options are inadequate largely due to limited understanding of ASD's underlying neural mechanisms. Contributing to difficulties in treatment development is the vast heterogeneity of ASD, from physiological causes to clinical presentations. Recent studies suggest that distinct genetic and neurological alterations may converge onto similar underlying neural circuits. Therefore, an improved understanding of neural circuit-level dysfunction in ASD may be a more productive path to developing broader treatments that are effective across a greater spectrum of ASD. Given the social preference behavioral deficits commonly seen in ASD, dysfunction in circuits mediating social preference may contribute to the atypical development of social cognition. We discuss some of the animal models used to study ASD and examine the function and effects of dysregulation of the social preference circuits, notably the medial prefrontal cortex-amygdala and the medial prefrontal cortex-nucleus accumbens circuits, in these animal models. Using the common circuits underlying similar behavioral disruptions of social preference behaviors as an example, we highlight the importance of identifying disruption in convergent circuits to improve the translational success of animal model research for ASD treatment development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abigail V Fortier
- Department of Psychology, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06520, USA; Department of Molecular, Cellular, Developmental Biology, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Olivia C Meisner
- Department of Psychology, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06520, USA; Department of Neuroscience, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
| | - Amrita R Nair
- Department of Psychology, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Steve W C Chang
- Department of Psychology, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06520, USA; Department of Neuroscience, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA; Kavli Institute for Neuroscience, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA; Wu Tsai Institute, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
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15
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Kim S, Kim YE, Song I, Ujihara Y, Kim N, Jiang YH, Yin HH, Lee TH, Kim IH. Neural circuit pathology driven by Shank3 mutation disrupts social behaviors. Cell Rep 2022; 39:110906. [PMID: 35675770 PMCID: PMC9210496 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2022.110906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2021] [Revised: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 05/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Dysfunctional sociability is a core symptom in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) that may arise from neural-network dysconnectivity between multiple brain regions. However, pathogenic neural-network mechanisms underlying social dysfunction are largely unknown. Here, we demonstrate that circuit-selective mutation (ctMUT) of ASD-risk Shank3 gene within a unidirectional projection from the prefrontal cortex to the basolateral amygdala alters spine morphology and excitatory-inhibitory balance of the circuit. Shank3 ctMUT mice show reduced sociability as well as elevated neural activity and its amplitude variability, which is consistent with the neuroimaging results from human ASD patients. Moreover, the circuit hyper-activity disrupts the temporal correlation of socially tuned neurons to the events of social interactions. Finally, optogenetic circuit activation in wild-type mice partially recapitulates the reduced sociability of Shank3 ctMUT mice, while circuit inhibition in Shank3 ctMUT mice partially rescues social behavior. Collectively, these results highlight a circuit-level pathogenic mechanism of Shank3 mutation that drives social dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sunwhi Kim
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN 38163, USA; Neuroscience Institute, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN 38163, USA
| | - Yong-Eun Kim
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN 38163, USA; Neuroscience Institute, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN 38163, USA
| | - Inuk Song
- Department of Psychology, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA
| | - Yusuke Ujihara
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN 38163, USA; Neuroscience Institute, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN 38163, USA
| | - Namsoo Kim
- Janelia Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Ashburn, VA 20147, USA
| | - Yong-Hui Jiang
- Department of Genetics, Pediatrics and Neuroscience, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Henry H Yin
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA
| | - Tae-Ho Lee
- Department of Psychology, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA
| | - Il Hwan Kim
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN 38163, USA; Neuroscience Institute, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN 38163, USA.
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16
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Choi M, Ko SY, Seo JY, Kim DG, Lee H, Chung H, Son H. Autistic-like social deficits in hippocampal MeCP2 knockdown rat models are rescued by ketamine. BMB Rep 2022. [PMID: 35410641 PMCID: PMC9152577 DOI: 10.5483/bmbrep.2022.55.5.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism or autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a behavioral syndrome characterized by persistent deficits in social interaction, and repetitive patterns of behavior, interests, or activities. The gene encoding Methyl-CpG binding protein 2 (MeCP2) is one of a few exceptional genes of established causal effect in ASD. Although genetically engineered mice studies may shed light on how MeCP2 loss affects synaptic activity patterns across the whole brain, such studies are not considered practical in ASD patients due to the overall level of impairment, and are technically challenging in mice. For the first time, we show that hippo-campal MeCP2 knockdown produces behavioral abnormalities associated with autism-like traits in rats, providing a new strategy to investigate the efficacy of therapeutics in ASD. Ketamine, an N-Methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) blocker, has been proposed as a possible treatment for autism. Using the MeCP2 knockdown rats in conjunction with a rat model of valproic acid (VPA)-induced ASD, we examined gene expression and ASD behaviors upon ketamine treatment. We report that the core symptoms of autism in MeCP2 knockdown rats with social impairment recovered dramatically following a single treatment with ketamine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miyeon Choi
- Hanyang Biomedical Research Institute, Hanyang University, Seoul 04763, Korea
| | - Seung Yeon Ko
- Hanyang Biomedical Research Institute, Hanyang University, Seoul 04763, Korea
| | - Jee Young Seo
- Graduate School of Biomedical Science and Engineering, Hanyang University, Seoul 04763, Korea
| | - Do Gyeong Kim
- Graduate School of Biomedical Science and Engineering, Hanyang University, Seoul 04763, Korea
| | - Huiju Lee
- Graduate School of Biomedical Science and Engineering, Hanyang University, Seoul 04763, Korea
| | - Heekyoung Chung
- Graduate School of Biomedical Science and Engineering, Hanyang University, Seoul 04763, Korea
| | - Hyeon Son
- Graduate School of Biomedical Science and Engineering, Hanyang University, Seoul 04763, Korea
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, Hanyang University, Seoul 04763, Korea
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17
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Delling JP, Boeckers TM. Comparison of SHANK3 deficiency in animal models: phenotypes, treatment strategies, and translational implications. J Neurodev Disord 2021; 13:55. [PMID: 34784886 PMCID: PMC8594088 DOI: 10.1186/s11689-021-09397-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition, which is characterized by clinical heterogeneity and high heritability. Core symptoms of ASD include deficits in social communication and interaction, as well as restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior, interests, or activities. Many genes have been identified that are associated with an increased risk for ASD. Proteins encoded by these ASD risk genes are often involved in processes related to fetal brain development, chromatin modification and regulation of gene expression in general, as well as the structural and functional integrity of synapses. Genes of the SH3 and multiple ankyrin repeat domains (SHANK) family encode crucial scaffolding proteins (SHANK1-3) of excitatory synapses and other macromolecular complexes. SHANK gene mutations are highly associated with ASD and more specifically the Phelan-McDermid syndrome (PMDS), which is caused by heterozygous 22q13.3-deletion resulting in SHANK3-haploinsufficiency, or by SHANK3 missense variants. SHANK3 deficiency and potential treatment options have been extensively studied in animal models, especially in mice, but also in rats and non-human primates. However, few of the proposed therapeutic strategies have translated into clinical practice yet. MAIN TEXT This review summarizes the literature concerning SHANK3-deficient animal models. In particular, the structural, behavioral, and neurological abnormalities are described and compared, providing a broad and comprehensive overview. Additionally, the underlying pathophysiologies and possible treatments that have been investigated in these models are discussed and evaluated with respect to their effect on ASD- or PMDS-associated phenotypes. CONCLUSIONS Animal models of SHANK3 deficiency generated by various genetic strategies, which determine the composition of the residual SHANK3-isoforms and affected cell types, show phenotypes resembling ASD and PMDS. The phenotypic heterogeneity across multiple models and studies resembles the variation of clinical severity in human ASD and PMDS patients. Multiple therapeutic strategies have been proposed and tested in animal models, which might lead to translational implications for human patients with ASD and/or PMDS. Future studies should explore the effects of new therapeutic approaches that target genetic haploinsufficiency, like CRISPR-mediated activation of promotors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Philipp Delling
- Institute for Anatomy and Cell Biology, Ulm University, Albert-Einstein-Allee 11, Ulm, 89081, Germany.
| | - Tobias M Boeckers
- Institute for Anatomy and Cell Biology, Ulm University, Albert-Einstein-Allee 11, Ulm, 89081, Germany. .,Ulm Site, DZNE, Ulm, Germany.
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18
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Wan L, Ai JQ, Yang C, Jiang J, Zhang QL, Luo ZH, Huang RJ, Tu T, Pan A, Tu E, Manavis J, Xiao B, Yan XX. Expression of the Excitatory Postsynaptic Scaffolding Protein, Shank3, in Human Brain: Effect of Age and Alzheimer's Disease. Front Aging Neurosci 2021; 13:717263. [PMID: 34504419 PMCID: PMC8421777 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2021.717263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Shank3 is a postsynaptic scaffolding protein of excitatory synapses. Mutations or variations of SHANK3 are associated with various psychiatric and neurological disorders. We set to determine its normal expression pattern in the human brain, and its change, if any, with age and Alzheimer’s disease (AD)-type β-amyloid (Aβ) and Tau pathogenesis. In general, Shank3 immunoreactivity (IR) exhibited largely a neuropil pattern with differential laminar/regional distribution across brain regions. In youth and adults, subsets of pyramidal/multipolar neurons in the cerebrum, striatum, and thalamus showed moderate IR, while some large-sized neurons in the brainstem and the granule cells in the cerebellar cortex exhibited light IR. In double immunofluorescence, Shank3 IR occurred at the sublemmal regions in neuronal somata and large dendrites, apposing to synaptophysin-labeled presynaptic terminals. In aged cases, immunolabeled neuronal somata were reduced, with disrupted neuropil labeling seen in the molecular layer of the dentate gyrus in AD cases. In immunoblot, levels of Shank3 protein were positively correlated with that of the postsynaptic density protein 95 (PSD95) among different brain regions. Levels of Shank3, PSD95, and synaptophysin immunoblotted in the prefrontal, precentral, and cerebellar cortical lysates were reduced in the aged and AD relative to youth and adult groups. Taken together, the differential Shank3 expression among brain structures/regions indicates the varied local density of the excitatory synapses. The enriched Shank3 expression in the forebrain subregions appears inconsistent with a role of this protein in the modulation of high cognitive functions. The decline of its expression in aged and AD brains may relate to the degeneration of excitatory synapses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lily Wan
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jia-Qi Ai
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Central South University Xiangya School of Medicine, Changsha, China
| | - Chen Yang
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Central South University Xiangya School of Medicine, Changsha, China
| | - Juan Jiang
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Central South University Xiangya School of Medicine, Changsha, China
| | - Qi-Lei Zhang
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Central South University Xiangya School of Medicine, Changsha, China
| | - Zhao-Hui Luo
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Rou-Jie Huang
- Medical Doctor Program, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Tian Tu
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Aihua Pan
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Central South University Xiangya School of Medicine, Changsha, China
| | - Ewen Tu
- Department of Neurology, Brain Hospital of Hunan Province, Changsha, China
| | - Jim Manavis
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Bo Xiao
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Xiao-Xin Yan
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Central South University Xiangya School of Medicine, Changsha, China
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19
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Boksha IS, Prokhorova TA, Tereshkina EB, Savushkina OK, Burbaeva GS. Protein Phosphorylation Signaling Cascades in Autism: The Role of mTOR Pathway. BIOCHEMISTRY (MOSCOW) 2021; 86:577-596. [PMID: 33993859 DOI: 10.1134/s0006297921050072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling pathway is a central regulator of cell metabolism, growth, and survival in response to hormones, growth factors, nutrients, and stress-induced signals. In this review, we analyzed the studies on the molecular abnormalities of the mTOR-associated signaling cascades in autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) and outlined the prospects for the pathogenicity-targeting pharmacotherapeutic approaches to ASDs, in particular syndromic ASDs. Based on available experimental and clinical data, we suggest that very early detection of molecular abnormalities in the ASD risk groups can be facilitated by using peripheral blood platelets. Also, identification of the time window of critical dysregulations in the described pathways in the ASD risk groups might suggest further research directions leading to more efficacious pharmacotherapeutic interventions in ASDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irina S Boksha
- Mental Health Research Center, Moscow, 115522, Russia. .,Gamaleya Research Center of Epidemiology and Microbiology, Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Moscow, 123098, Russia
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20
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Bucher M, Niebling S, Han Y, Molodenskiy D, Hassani Nia F, Kreienkamp HJ, Svergun D, Kim E, Kostyukova AS, Kreutz MR, Mikhaylova M. Autism-associated SHANK3 missense point mutations impact conformational fluctuations and protein turnover at synapses. eLife 2021; 10:66165. [PMID: 33945465 PMCID: PMC8169116 DOI: 10.7554/elife.66165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2020] [Accepted: 05/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Members of the SH3- and ankyrin repeat (SHANK) protein family are considered as master scaffolds of the postsynaptic density of glutamatergic synapses. Several missense mutations within the canonical SHANK3 isoform have been proposed as causative for the development of autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). However, there is a surprising paucity of data linking missense mutation-induced changes in protein structure and dynamics to the occurrence of ASD-related synaptic phenotypes. In this proof-of-principle study, we focus on two ASD-associated point mutations, both located within the same domain of SHANK3 and demonstrate that both mutant proteins indeed show distinct changes in secondary and tertiary structure as well as higher conformational fluctuations. Local and distal structural disturbances result in altered synaptic targeting and changes of protein turnover at synaptic sites in rat primary hippocampal neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Bucher
- AG Optobiology, Institute of Biology, Humboldt-University, Berlin, Germany.,DFG Emmy Noether Guest Group 'Neuronal Protein Transport', Institute for Molecular Neurogenetics, Center for Molecular Neurobiology (ZMNH), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), Hamburg, Germany.,RG Neuroplasticity, Leibniz-Institute for Neurobiology (LIN), Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Stephan Niebling
- Molecular Biophysics and High-Throughput Crystallization, European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), Hamburg, Germany
| | - Yuhao Han
- DFG Emmy Noether Guest Group 'Neuronal Protein Transport', Institute for Molecular Neurogenetics, Center for Molecular Neurobiology (ZMNH), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), Hamburg, Germany.,Structural Cell Biology of Viruses, Centre for Structural Systems Biology (CSSB) and Leibniz Institute for Experimental Virology, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Dmitry Molodenskiy
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL) Hamburg Unit, DESY, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Fatemeh Hassani Nia
- Institute of Human Genetics, Center for Obstetrics and Pediatrics, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), Hamburg, Germany
| | - Hans-Jürgen Kreienkamp
- Institute of Human Genetics, Center for Obstetrics and Pediatrics, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), Hamburg, Germany
| | - Dmitri Svergun
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL) Hamburg Unit, DESY, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Eunjoon Kim
- Center for Synaptic Brain Dysfunctions, Institute for Basic Science (IBS) and Department of Biological Sciences, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Alla S Kostyukova
- DFG Emmy Noether Guest Group 'Neuronal Protein Transport', Institute for Molecular Neurogenetics, Center for Molecular Neurobiology (ZMNH), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), Hamburg, Germany.,The Gene and Linda Voiland School of Chemical Engineering and Bioengineering, Washington State University (WSU), Pullman, United States
| | - Michael R Kreutz
- RG Neuroplasticity, Leibniz-Institute for Neurobiology (LIN), Magdeburg, Germany.,Leibniz Group 'Dendritic Organelles and Synaptic Function', Center for Molecular Neurobiology (ZMNH), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), Hamburg, Germany.,German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases, Magdeburg, Germany.,Center for Behavioral Brain Sciences, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Marina Mikhaylova
- AG Optobiology, Institute of Biology, Humboldt-University, Berlin, Germany.,DFG Emmy Noether Guest Group 'Neuronal Protein Transport', Institute for Molecular Neurogenetics, Center for Molecular Neurobiology (ZMNH), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), Hamburg, Germany
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21
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Mariscal MG, Berry-Kravis E, Buxbaum JD, Ethridge LE, Filip-Dhima R, Foss-Feig JH, Kolevzon A, Modi ME, Mosconi MW, Nelson CA, Powell CM, Siper PM, Soorya L, Thaliath A, Thurm A, Zhang B, Sahin M, Levin AR. Shifted phase of EEG cross-frequency coupling in individuals with Phelan-McDermid syndrome. Mol Autism 2021; 12:29. [PMID: 33910615 PMCID: PMC8082621 DOI: 10.1186/s13229-020-00411-9] [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] [Accepted: 12/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Phelan-McDermid Syndrome (PMS) is a rare condition caused by deletion or mutation of the SHANK3 gene. Individuals with PMS frequently present with intellectual disability, autism spectrum disorder, and other neurodevelopmental challenges. Electroencephalography (EEG) can provide a window into network-level function in PMS. METHODS Here, we analyze EEG data collected across multiple sites in individuals with PMS (n = 26) and typically developing individuals (n = 15). We quantify oscillatory power, alpha-gamma phase-amplitude coupling strength, and phase bias, a measure of the phase of cross frequency coupling thought to reflect the balance of feedforward (bottom-up) and feedback (top-down) activity. RESULTS We find individuals with PMS display increased alpha-gamma phase bias (U = 3.841, p < 0.0005), predominantly over posterior electrodes. Most individuals with PMS demonstrate positive overall phase bias while most typically developing individuals demonstrate negative overall phase bias. Among individuals with PMS, strength of alpha-gamma phase-amplitude coupling was associated with Sameness, Ritualistic, and Compulsive behaviors as measured by the Repetitive Behavior Scales-Revised (Beta = 0.545, p = 0.011). CONCLUSIONS Increased phase bias suggests potential circuit-level mechanisms underlying phenotype in PMS, offering opportunities for back-translation of findings into animal models and targeting in clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Elizabeth Berry-Kravis
- Department of Pediatrics, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL, USA
- Department of Neurological Sciences, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL, USA
- Department of Biochemistry, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Joseph D Buxbaum
- Seaver Autism Center, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai Hospital, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Lauren E Ethridge
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Oklahoma Health Science Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Rajna Filip-Dhima
- Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jennifer H Foss-Feig
- Seaver Autism Center, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai Hospital, New York, NY, USA
| | - Alexander Kolevzon
- Seaver Autism Center, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai Hospital, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Meera E Modi
- Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Matthew W Mosconi
- Clinical Child Psychology Program, Schiefelbusch Institute for Life Span Studies, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS, USA
| | - Charles A Nelson
- Department of Pediatrics, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Craig M Powell
- Department of Neurobiology, UAB School of Medicine, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Paige M Siper
- Seaver Autism Center, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai Hospital, New York, NY, USA
| | - Latha Soorya
- Department of Psychiatry, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Andrew Thaliath
- Department of Pediatrics, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Audrey Thurm
- Intramural Research Program, National Institute of Mental Health, Bethesda, USA
| | - Bo Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Mustafa Sahin
- Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - April R Levin
- Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.
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22
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Wan L, Liu D, Xiao WB, Zhang BX, Yan XX, Luo ZH, Xiao B. Association of SHANK Family with Neuropsychiatric Disorders: An Update on Genetic and Animal Model Discoveries. Cell Mol Neurobiol 2021; 42:1623-1643. [PMID: 33595806 DOI: 10.1007/s10571-021-01054-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Accepted: 02/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The Shank family proteins are enriched at the postsynaptic density (PSD) of excitatory glutamatergic synapses. They serve as synaptic scaffolding proteins and appear to play a critical role in the formation, maintenance and functioning of synapse. Increasing evidence from genetic association and animal model studies indicates a connection of SHANK genes defects with the development of neuropsychiatric disorders. In this review, we first update the current understanding of the SHANK family genes and their encoded protein products. We then denote the literature relating their alterations to the risk of neuropsychiatric diseases. We further review evidence from animal models that provided molecular insights into the biological as well as pathogenic roles of Shank proteins in synapses, and the potential relationship to the development of abnormal neurobehavioral phenotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lily Wan
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Du Liu
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China.,Taikang Tongji Hospital, Wuhan, 430050, Hubei, China
| | - Wen-Biao Xiao
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Bo-Xin Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Xiao-Xin Yan
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
| | - Zhao-Hui Luo
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China.
| | - Bo Xiao
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China.
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23
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Alò R, Olivito I, Fazzari G, Zizza M, Di Vito A, Avolio E, Mandalà M, Bruno R, Barni T, Canonaco M, Facciolo RM. Correlation of distinct behaviors to the modified expression of cerebral Shank1,3 and BDNF in two autistic animal models. Behav Brain Res 2021; 404:113165. [PMID: 33577886 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2021.113165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2020] [Revised: 12/27/2020] [Accepted: 02/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a heterogeneous neurodevelopmental disorder featuring altered neuronal circuitry and consequently impaired social interactions, restrictive interests plus repetitive stereotypic activities. In the present study, differentiated behaviors of valproic (VPA) and propionic (PPA) acid-mediated autism rats were correlated to cerebral scaffolding proteins (Shank1,3) and BDNF expression variations. Sprague-Dawley offspring that received VPA during pregnancy displayed a notably diminished permanence (-78 %, p < 0.01) in the light chamber of light dark (LD) test, reduced exploratory tasks, i.e. grooming (-90 %) and rearing (-65 %). Moreover, they executed extremely greater climbing intervals (+300 %, p < 0.001) in novel cage (NC) test, plus exhibited an extremely reduced (-331 %) discrimination index in novel object recognition (NOR) test when compared to controls. PPA-treated postnatal days (PND) 12-16 rats also displayed anxiety-like behaviors, although in a less evident manner, as indicated by a moderate time (+55 %; p < 0.05) spent in dark chamber along with notable and moderate decreases in digging (-78 %) plus grooming (-52 %), respectively. Contextually, VPA- more than PPA supplied opposite Shank1,3 expression changes in cerebellum (CB; -62 %; +78 %), dorsomedial prefrontal cortex (DM-PFC; +95 % -76 %), respectively, while resulting extremely upregulated in hippocampus (HIP; +125 % - +155 %). Even BDNF resulted to be substantially and notably diminished in HIP (-85 %) and DM-PFC (-72 %), respectively, of VPA rats while it was only moderately reduced (-35 % to -45 %) in these same areas of PPA rats. The early altered brain-specific expression levels accounting for different behavioral performances may provide useful diagnostic indications and constitute valuable therapeutic strategies for autistic patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raffaella Alò
- Comparative Anatomy & Cytology, Dept. of Biology, Ecology and Earth Science, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende-Cosenza, Italy
| | - Ilaria Olivito
- Comparative Anatomy & Cytology, Dept. of Biology, Ecology and Earth Science, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende-Cosenza, Italy
| | - Gilda Fazzari
- Comparative Anatomy & Cytology, Dept. of Biology, Ecology and Earth Science, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende-Cosenza, Italy
| | - Merylin Zizza
- Comparative Anatomy & Cytology, Dept. of Biology, Ecology and Earth Science, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende-Cosenza, Italy
| | - Anna Di Vito
- Dept. of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catanzaro "Magna Graecia", Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Ennio Avolio
- Comparative Anatomy & Cytology, Dept. of Biology, Ecology and Earth Science, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende-Cosenza, Italy; Health Center srl, Biomedical and Nutritional Center, via Sabotino 66, 87100 Cosenza, Italy
| | - Maurizio Mandalà
- Vascular Physiology Lab., Dept. of Biology, Ecology and Earth Science, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende-Cosenza, Italy
| | - Rosalinda Bruno
- Dept. of Pharmacy and Science of Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende-Cosenza, Italy
| | - Tullio Barni
- Dept. of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catanzaro "Magna Graecia", Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Marcello Canonaco
- Comparative Anatomy & Cytology, Dept. of Biology, Ecology and Earth Science, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende-Cosenza, Italy.
| | - Rosa Maria Facciolo
- Comparative Anatomy & Cytology, Dept. of Biology, Ecology and Earth Science, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende-Cosenza, Italy
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24
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Jin C, Kang H, Yoo T, Ryu JR, Yoo YE, Ma R, Zhang Y, Kang HR, Kim Y, Seong H, Bang G, Park S, Kwon SK, Sun W, Kim H, Kim JY, Kim E, Han K. The Neomycin Resistance Cassette in the Targeted Allele of Shank3B Knock-Out Mice Has Potential Off-Target Effects to Produce an Unusual Shank3 Isoform. Front Mol Neurosci 2021; 13:614435. [PMID: 33505245 PMCID: PMC7831789 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2020.614435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2020] [Accepted: 12/02/2020] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Variants of the SH3 and multiple ankyrin repeat domains 3 (SHANK3), which encodes postsynaptic scaffolds, are associated with brain disorders. The targeted alleles in a few Shank3 knock-out (KO) lines contain a neomycin resistance (Neo) cassette, which may perturb the normal expression of neighboring genes; however, this has not been investigated in detail. We previously reported an unexpected increase in the mRNA expression of Shank3 exons 1–12 in the brains of Shank3B KO mice generated by replacing Shank3 exons 13–16 with the Neo cassette. In this study, we confirmed that the increased Shank3 mRNA in Shank3B KO brains produced an unusual ∼60 kDa Shank3 isoform (Shank3-N), which did not properly localize to the synaptic compartment. Functionally, Shank3-N overexpression altered the dendritic spine morphology in cultured neurons. Importantly, Shank3-N expression in Shank3B KO mice was not a compensatory response to a reduction of full-length Shank3 because expression was still detected in the brain after normalizing the level of full-length Shank3. Moreover, in another Shank3 KO line (Shank3 gKO) with a similar Shank3 exonal deletion as that in Shank3B KO mice but without a Neo cassette, the mRNA expression levels of Shank3 exons 1–12 were lower than those of wild-type mice and Shank3-N was not detected in the brain. In addition, the expression levels of genes neighboring Shank3 on chromosome 15 were altered in the striatum of Shank3B KO but not Shank3 gKO mice. These results suggest that the Neo cassette has potential off-target effects in Shank3B KO mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunmei Jin
- Department of Neuroscience, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul, South Korea.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Hyojin Kang
- Division of National Supercomputing, Korea Institute of Science and Technology Information, Daejeon, South Korea
| | - Taesun Yoo
- Center for Synaptic Brain Dysfunctions, Institute for Basic Science, Daejeon, South Korea
| | - Jae Ryun Ryu
- Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Ye-Eun Yoo
- Department of Biological Sciences, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Daejeon, South Korea
| | - Ruiying Ma
- Department of Neuroscience, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul, South Korea.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Yinhua Zhang
- Department of Neuroscience, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul, South Korea.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Hyae Rim Kang
- Department of Neuroscience, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul, South Korea.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Yoonhee Kim
- Department of Neuroscience, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Hyunyoung Seong
- Department of Neuroscience, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Geul Bang
- Research Center for Bioconvergence Analysis, Korea Basic Science Institute, Ochang, South Korea.,College of Pharmacy, Korea University, Sejong, South Korea
| | - Sangwoo Park
- Research Center for Bioconvergence Analysis, Korea Basic Science Institute, Ochang, South Korea
| | - Seok-Kyu Kwon
- Center for Functional Connectomics, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Brain Science Institute, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Woong Sun
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul, South Korea.,Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Hyunkyung Kim
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul, South Korea.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Jin Young Kim
- Research Center for Bioconvergence Analysis, Korea Basic Science Institute, Ochang, South Korea
| | - Eunjoon Kim
- Center for Synaptic Brain Dysfunctions, Institute for Basic Science, Daejeon, South Korea.,Department of Biological Sciences, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Daejeon, South Korea
| | - Kihoon Han
- Department of Neuroscience, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul, South Korea.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul, South Korea
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25
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Reichova A, Bacova Z, Bukatova S, Kokavcova M, Meliskova V, Frimmel K, Ostatnikova D, Bakos J. Abnormal neuronal morphology and altered synaptic proteins are restored by oxytocin in autism-related SHANK3 deficient model. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2020; 518:110924. [PMID: 32619581 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2020.110924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2020] [Revised: 05/22/2020] [Accepted: 06/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Oxytocin has been suggested as a potential therapeutic agent in autism and other neuropsychiatric conditions. Although, the link between the deficit in "SH3 domain and ankyrin repeat containing protein 3" (SHANK3) and autism spectrum disorders is highly studied topic, developmental mechanisms are still poorly understood. In this study, we clearly confirm that SHANK3 deficiency is accompanied with abnormalities in neurite number and length, which are reversed by oxytocin treatment (1 μM, 48h) in primary hippocampal neurons. Transient silencing for the SHANK3 gene (siSHANK3) in neuron-like cell line (SH-SY5Y) revealed a significant decrease in the expression levels of Neurexins 1α, 1β, 2α and 2β. Oxytocin treatment compensated reduced levels of Synapsin I, PSD95 and Neuroligin 3 in siSHANK3 cells suggesting a marked potential of oxytocin to ameliorate defects present in conditions of SHANK3 deficiency. Further analysis of hippocampal tissue revealed that oxytocin application (0.1 μg/μl, s.c. at P2 and P3 day) affects levels of synaptic proteins and GTPases in both WT and SHANK3 deficient mice on day P5. Oxytocin stimulated the mRNA expression of RhoB and Rac1 in both WT and SHANK3 deficient mice. Our data suggest that autism relevant synaptic pathologies could be reversed by oxytocin treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Reichova
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology, Biomedical Research Center, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Zuzana Bacova
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology, Biomedical Research Center, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Stanislava Bukatova
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology, Biomedical Research Center, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Martina Kokavcova
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology, Biomedical Research Center, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Veronika Meliskova
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology, Biomedical Research Center, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Karel Frimmel
- Centre of Experimental Medicine, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Daniela Ostatnikova
- Institute of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Jan Bakos
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology, Biomedical Research Center, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Bratislava, Slovakia; Institute of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University, Bratislava, Slovakia.
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26
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Javed S, Selliah T, Lee YJ, Huang WH. Dosage-sensitive genes in autism spectrum disorders: From neurobiology to therapy. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2020; 118:538-567. [PMID: 32858083 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2020.08.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2020] [Revised: 07/26/2020] [Accepted: 08/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are a group of heterogenous neurodevelopmental disorders affecting 1 in 59 children. Syndromic ASDs are commonly associated with chromosomal rearrangements or dosage imbalance involving a single gene. Many of these genes are dosage-sensitive and regulate transcription, protein homeostasis, and synaptic function in the brain. Despite vastly different molecular perturbations, syndromic ASDs share core symptoms including social dysfunction and repetitive behavior. However, each ASD subtype has a unique pathogenic mechanism and combination of comorbidities that require individual attention. We have learned a great deal about how these dosage-sensitive genes control brain development and behaviors from genetically-engineered mice. Here we describe the clinical features of eight monogenic neurodevelopmental disorders caused by dosage imbalance of four genes, as well as recent advances in using genetic mouse models to understand their pathogenic mechanisms and develop intervention strategies. We propose that applying newly developed quantitative molecular and neuroscience technologies will advance our understanding of the unique neurobiology of each disorder and enable the development of personalized therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sehrish Javed
- Centre for Research in Neuroscience, Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, The Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Tharushan Selliah
- Centre for Research in Neuroscience, Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, The Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Yu-Ju Lee
- Centre for Research in Neuroscience, Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, The Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Wei-Hsiang Huang
- Centre for Research in Neuroscience, Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, The Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montréal, Québec, Canada.
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27
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Yoo T, Kim SG, Yang SH, Kim H, Kim E, Kim SY. A DLG2 deficiency in mice leads to reduced sociability and increased repetitive behavior accompanied by aberrant synaptic transmission in the dorsal striatum. Mol Autism 2020; 11:19. [PMID: 32164788 PMCID: PMC7069029 DOI: 10.1186/s13229-020-00324-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2019] [Accepted: 03/02/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background DLG2, also known as postsynaptic density protein-93 (PSD-93) or chapsyn-110, is an excitatory postsynaptic scaffolding protein that interacts with synaptic surface receptors and signaling molecules. A recent study has demonstrated that mutations in the DLG2 promoter region are significantly associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Although DLG2 is well known as a schizophrenia-susceptibility gene, the mechanisms that link DLG2 gene disruption with ASD-like behaviors remain unclear. Methods Mice lacking exon 14 of the Dlg2 gene (Dlg2–/– mice) were used to investigate whether Dlg2 deletion leads to ASD-like behavioral abnormalities. To this end, we performed a battery of behavioral tests assessing locomotion, anxiety, sociability, and repetitive behaviors. In situ hybridization was performed to determine expression levels of Dlg2 mRNA in different mouse brain regions during embryonic and postnatal brain development. We also measured excitatory and inhibitory synaptic currents to determine the impacts of Dlg2 deletion on synaptic transmission in the dorsolateral striatum. Results Dlg2–/– mice showed hypoactivity in a novel environment. They also exhibited decreased social approach, but normal social novelty recognition, compared with wild-type animals. In addition, Dlg2–/– mice displayed strong self-grooming, both in home cages and novel environments. Dlg2 mRNA levels in the striatum were heightened until postnatal day 7 in mice, implying potential roles of DLG2 in the development of striatal connectivity. In addition, the frequency of excitatory, but not inhibitory, spontaneous postsynaptic currents in the Dlg2–/– dorsolateral striatum was significantly reduced. Conclusion These results suggest that homozygous Dlg2 deletion in mice leads to ASD-like behavioral phenotypes, including social deficits and increased repetitive behaviors, as well as reductions in excitatory synaptic input onto dorsolateral spiny projection neurons, implying that the dorsal striatum is one of the brain regions vulnerable to the developmental dysregulation of DLG2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taesun Yoo
- Department of Biological Sciences, Korea Advanced Institute for Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, 34141, Korea
| | - Sun-Gyun Kim
- Center for Synaptic Brain Dysfunctions, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Daejeon, 34141, Korea
| | - Soo Hyun Yang
- Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Korea
| | - Hyun Kim
- Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Korea
| | - Eunjoon Kim
- Department of Biological Sciences, Korea Advanced Institute for Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, 34141, Korea.,Center for Synaptic Brain Dysfunctions, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Daejeon, 34141, Korea
| | - Soo Young Kim
- College of Pharmacy, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan, 38541, Korea.
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28
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Kim Y, Noh YW, Kim K, Yang E, Kim H, Kim E. IRSp53 Deletion in Glutamatergic and GABAergic Neurons and in Male and Female Mice Leads to Distinct Electrophysiological and Behavioral Phenotypes. Front Cell Neurosci 2020; 14:23. [PMID: 32116566 PMCID: PMC7026675 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2020.00023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2019] [Accepted: 01/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
IRSp53 (also known as BAIAP2) is an abundant excitatory postsynaptic scaffolding protein implicated in autism spectrum disorders (ASD), schizophrenia, and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). IRSp53 is expressed in different cell types across different brain regions, although it remains unclear how IRSp53 deletion in different cell types affects brain functions and behaviors in mice. Here, we deleted IRSp53 in excitatory and inhibitory neurons in mice and compared resulting phenotypes in males and females. IRSp53 deletion in excitatory neurons driven by Emx1 leads to strong social deficits and hyperactivity without affecting anxiety-like behavior, whereas IRSp53 deletion in inhibitory neurons driven by Viaat has minimal impacts on these behaviors in male mice. In female mice, excitatory neuronal IRSp53 deletion induces hyperactivity but moderate social deficits. Excitatory neuronal IRSp53 deletion in male mice induces an increased ratio of evoked excitatory and inhibitory synaptic transmission (E/I ratio) in layer V pyramidal neurons in the prelimbic region of the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC), whereas the same mutation does not alter the E/I ratio in female neurons. These results suggest that IRSp53 deletion in excitatory and inhibitory neurons and in male and female mice has distinct impacts on behaviors and synaptic transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yangsik Kim
- Graduate School of Medical Science and Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, South Korea
| | - Young Woo Noh
- Department of Biological Sciences, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, South Korea
| | - Kyungdeok Kim
- Department of Biological Sciences, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, South Korea
| | - Esther Yang
- Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Hyun Kim
- Department of Anatomy, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Eunjoon Kim
- Department of Biological Sciences, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, South Korea.,Center for Synaptic Brain Dysfunctions, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Daejeon, South Korea
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