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Brazhe A, Verisokin A, Verveyko D, Postnov D. Astrocytes: new evidence, new models, new roles. Biophys Rev 2023; 15:1303-1333. [PMID: 37975000 PMCID: PMC10643736 DOI: 10.1007/s12551-023-01145-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Astrocytes have been in the limelight of active research for about 3 decades now. Over this period, ideas about their function and role in the nervous system have evolved from simple assistance in energy supply and homeostasis maintenance to a complex informational and metabolic hub that integrates data on local neuronal activity, sensory and arousal context, and orchestrates many crucial processes in the brain. Rapid progress in experimental techniques and data analysis produces a growing body of data, which can be used as a foundation for formulation of new hypotheses, building new refined mathematical models, and ultimately should lead to a new level of understanding of the contribution of astrocytes to the cognitive tasks performed by the brain. Here, we highlight recent progress in astrocyte research, which we believe expands our understanding of how low-level signaling at a cellular level builds up to processes at the level of the whole brain and animal behavior. We start our review with revisiting data on the role of noradrenaline-mediated astrocytic signaling in locomotion, arousal, sensory integration, memory, and sleep. We then briefly review astrocyte contribution to the regulation of cerebral blood flow regulation, which is followed by a discussion of biophysical mechanisms underlying astrocyte effects on different brain processes. The experimental section is closed by an overview of recent experimental techniques available for modulation and visualization of astrocyte dynamics. We then evaluate how the new data can be potentially incorporated into the new mathematical models or where and how it already has been done. Finally, we discuss an interesting prospect that astrocytes may be key players in important processes such as the switching between sleep and wakefulness and the removal of toxic metabolites from the brain milieu.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexey Brazhe
- Department of Biophysics, Biological Faculty, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Leninskie Gory, 1/24, Moscow, 119234 Russia
- Department of Molecular Neurobiology, Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry RAS, GSP-7, Miklukho-Maklay Str., 16/10, Moscow, 117997 Russia
| | - Andrey Verisokin
- Department of Theoretical Physics, Kursk State University, Radishcheva st., 33, Kursk, 305000 Russia
| | - Darya Verveyko
- Department of Theoretical Physics, Kursk State University, Radishcheva st., 33, Kursk, 305000 Russia
| | - Dmitry Postnov
- Department of Optics and Biophotonics, Saratov State University, Astrakhanskaya st., 83, Saratov, 410012 Russia
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2
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Li Y, Que M, Wang X, Zhan G, Zhou Z, Luo X, Li S. Exploring Astrocyte-Mediated Mechanisms in Sleep Disorders and Comorbidity. Biomedicines 2023; 11:2476. [PMID: 37760916 PMCID: PMC10525869 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11092476] [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: 07/07/2023] [Revised: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Astrocytes, the most abundant cells in the brain, are integral to sleep regulation. In the context of a healthy neural environment, these glial cells exert a profound influence on the sleep-wake cycle, modulating both rapid eye movement (REM) and non-REM sleep phases. However, emerging literature underscores perturbations in astrocytic function as potential etiological factors in sleep disorders, either as protopathy or comorbidity. As known, sleep disorders significantly increase the risk of neurodegenerative, cardiovascular, metabolic, or psychiatric diseases. Meanwhile, sleep disorders are commonly screened as comorbidities in various neurodegenerative diseases, epilepsy, and others. Building on existing research that examines the role of astrocytes in sleep disorders, this review aims to elucidate the potential mechanisms by which astrocytes influence sleep regulation and contribute to sleep disorders in the varied settings of brain diseases. The review emphasizes the significance of astrocyte-mediated mechanisms in sleep disorders and their associated comorbidities, highlighting the need for further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yujuan Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, Hubei Key Laboratory of Geriatric Anesthesia and Perioperative Brain Health, Wuhan Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Anesthesia, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China; (Y.L.); (M.Q.); (X.W.); (G.Z.); (Z.Z.)
| | - Mengxin Que
- Department of Anesthesiology, Hubei Key Laboratory of Geriatric Anesthesia and Perioperative Brain Health, Wuhan Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Anesthesia, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China; (Y.L.); (M.Q.); (X.W.); (G.Z.); (Z.Z.)
| | - Xuan Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Hubei Key Laboratory of Geriatric Anesthesia and Perioperative Brain Health, Wuhan Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Anesthesia, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China; (Y.L.); (M.Q.); (X.W.); (G.Z.); (Z.Z.)
| | - Gaofeng Zhan
- Department of Anesthesiology, Hubei Key Laboratory of Geriatric Anesthesia and Perioperative Brain Health, Wuhan Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Anesthesia, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China; (Y.L.); (M.Q.); (X.W.); (G.Z.); (Z.Z.)
| | - Zhiqiang Zhou
- Department of Anesthesiology, Hubei Key Laboratory of Geriatric Anesthesia and Perioperative Brain Health, Wuhan Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Anesthesia, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China; (Y.L.); (M.Q.); (X.W.); (G.Z.); (Z.Z.)
| | - Xiaoxiao Luo
- Department of Oncology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Shiyong Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, Hubei Key Laboratory of Geriatric Anesthesia and Perioperative Brain Health, Wuhan Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Anesthesia, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China; (Y.L.); (M.Q.); (X.W.); (G.Z.); (Z.Z.)
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3
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Que M, Li Y, Wang X, Zhan G, Luo X, Zhou Z. Role of astrocytes in sleep deprivation: accomplices, resisters, or bystanders? Front Cell Neurosci 2023; 17:1188306. [PMID: 37435045 PMCID: PMC10330732 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2023.1188306] [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: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Sleep plays an essential role in all studied animals with a nervous system. However, sleep deprivation leads to various pathological changes and neurobehavioral problems. Astrocytes are the most abundant cells in the brain and are involved in various important functions, including neurotransmitter and ion homeostasis, synaptic and neuronal modulation, and blood-brain barrier maintenance; furthermore, they are associated with numerous neurodegenerative diseases, pain, and mood disorders. Moreover, astrocytes are increasingly being recognized as vital contributors to the regulation of sleep-wake cycles, both locally and in specific neural circuits. In this review, we begin by describing the role of astrocytes in regulating sleep and circadian rhythms, focusing on: (i) neuronal activity; (ii) metabolism; (iii) the glymphatic system; (iv) neuroinflammation; and (v) astrocyte-microglia cross-talk. Moreover, we review the role of astrocytes in sleep deprivation comorbidities and sleep deprivation-related brain disorders. Finally, we discuss potential interventions targeting astrocytes to prevent or treat sleep deprivation-related brain disorders. Pursuing these questions would pave the way for a deeper understanding of the cellular and neural mechanisms underlying sleep deprivation-comorbid brain disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengxin Que
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Geriatric Anesthesia and Perioperative Brain Health, Department of Anesthesiology, Tongji Medical College, Wuhan Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Anesthesia, Tongji Hospital, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yujuan Li
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Geriatric Anesthesia and Perioperative Brain Health, Department of Anesthesiology, Tongji Medical College, Wuhan Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Anesthesia, Tongji Hospital, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xuan Wang
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Geriatric Anesthesia and Perioperative Brain Health, Department of Anesthesiology, Tongji Medical College, Wuhan Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Anesthesia, Tongji Hospital, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Gaofeng Zhan
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Geriatric Anesthesia and Perioperative Brain Health, Department of Anesthesiology, Tongji Medical College, Wuhan Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Anesthesia, Tongji Hospital, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiaoxiao Luo
- Department of Oncology, Tongji Medical College, Tongji Hospital, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhiqiang Zhou
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Geriatric Anesthesia and Perioperative Brain Health, Department of Anesthesiology, Tongji Medical College, Wuhan Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Anesthesia, Tongji Hospital, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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4
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Shigetomi E, Koizumi S. The role of astrocytes in behaviors related to emotion and motivation. Neurosci Res 2023; 187:21-39. [PMID: 36181908 DOI: 10.1016/j.neures.2022.09.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2022] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
Astrocytes are present throughout the brain and intimately interact with neurons and blood vessels. Three decades of research have shown that astrocytes reciprocally communicate with neurons and other non-neuronal cells in the brain and dynamically regulate cell function. Astrocytes express numerous receptors for neurotransmitters, neuromodulators, and cytokines and receive information from neurons, other astrocytes, and other non-neuronal cells. Among those receptors, the main focus has been G-protein coupled receptors. Activation of G-protein coupled receptors leads to dramatic changes in intracellular signaling (Ca2+ and cAMP), which is considered a form of astrocyte activity. Methodological improvements in measurement and manipulation of astrocytes have advanced our understanding of the role of astrocytes in circuits and have begun to reveal unexpected functions of astrocytes in behavior. Recent studies have suggested that astrocytic activity regulates behavior flexibility, such as coping strategies for stress exposure, and plays an important role in behaviors related to emotion and motivation. Preclinical evidence suggests that impairment of astrocytic function contributes to psychiatric diseases, especially major depression. Here, we review recent progress on the role of astrocytes in behaviors related to emotion and motivation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eiji Shigetomi
- Department of Neuropharmacology, Interdisciplinary Graduate School of Medicine, University of Yamanashi, Japan; Yamanashi GLIA Center, Graduate School of Medical Science, Interdisciplinary Graduate School of Medicine, University of Yamanashi, Japan.
| | - Schuichi Koizumi
- Department of Neuropharmacology, Interdisciplinary Graduate School of Medicine, University of Yamanashi, Japan; Yamanashi GLIA Center, Graduate School of Medical Science, Interdisciplinary Graduate School of Medicine, University of Yamanashi, Japan.
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Bindu DS, Tan CX, Savage JT, Eroglu C. GEARBOCS: An Adeno Associated Virus Tool for In Vivo Gene Editing in Astrocytes. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.01.17.524433. [PMID: 36711516 PMCID: PMC9884502 DOI: 10.1101/2023.01.17.524433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
In the mammalian central nervous system (CNS), astrocytes are indispensable for brain development, function, and health. However, non-invasive tools to study astrocyte biology and function in vivo have been limited to genetically modified mice. CRISPR/Cas9-based genome engineering enables rapid and precise gene manipulations in the CNS. Here, we developed a non-invasive astrocyte-specific method utilizing a single AAV vector, GEARBOCS (Gene Editing in AstRocytes Based On CRISPR/Cas9 System). We verified GEARBOCS' specificity to mouse cortical astrocytes and demonstrated its utility for three types of gene manipulations: knockout (KO); tagging (TagIN); and reporter gene knock-in (Gene-TRAP) strategies. We deployed GEARBOCS to determine whether cortical astrocytes express Vamp2 protein. The presence of Vamp2-positive vesicles in cultured astrocytes is well-established, however, Vamp2 protein expression in astrocytes in vivo has proven difficult to ascertain due to its overwhelming abundance in neurons. Using GEARBOCS, we delineated the in vivo astrocytic Vamp2 expression and found that it is required for maintaining excitatory and inhibitory synapse numbers in the visual cortex. GEARBOCS strategy provides fast and efficient means to study astrocyte biology in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Christabel Xin Tan
- Department of Cell Biology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Justin T. Savage
- Department of Cell Biology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA
- Department of Neurobiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Cagla Eroglu
- Department of Cell Biology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA
- Department of Neurobiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA
- Duke Institute for Brain Sciences (DIBS), Durham, NC 27710, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Duke University, Durham, NC, 27710, USA
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De Backer JF, Grunwald Kadow IC. A role for glia in cellular and systemic metabolism: insights from the fly. CURRENT OPINION IN INSECT SCIENCE 2022; 53:100947. [PMID: 35772690 DOI: 10.1016/j.cois.2022.100947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2022] [Revised: 06/18/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Excitability and synaptic transmission make neurons high-energy consumers. However, neurons do not store carbohydrates or lipids. Instead, they need support cells to fuel their metabolic demands. This role is assumed by glia, both in vertebrates and invertebrates. Many questions remain regarding the coupling between neuronal activity and energy demand on the one hand, and nutrient supply by glia on the other hand. Here, we review recent advances showing that fly glia, similar to their role in vertebrates, fuel neurons in times of high energetic demand, such as during memory formation and long-term storage. Vertebrate glia also play a role in the modulation of neurons, their communication, and behavior, including food search and feeding. We discuss recent literature pointing to similar roles of fly glia in behavior and metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean-François De Backer
- Technical University of Munich, School of Life Sciences, Liesel-Beckmann-Str. 4, 85354 Freising, Germany; University of Bonn, Faculty of Medicine, UKB, Institute of Physiology II, Nussallee 11, 53115 Bonn, Germany
| | - Ilona C Grunwald Kadow
- Technical University of Munich, School of Life Sciences, Liesel-Beckmann-Str. 4, 85354 Freising, Germany; University of Bonn, Faculty of Medicine, UKB, Institute of Physiology II, Nussallee 11, 53115 Bonn, Germany.
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Gray SR, Ye L, Ye JY, Paukert M. Noradrenergic terminal short-term potentiation enables modality-selective integration of sensory input and vigilance state. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2021; 7:eabk1378. [PMID: 34919424 PMCID: PMC8682997 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abk1378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Accepted: 10/28/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Recent years have seen compelling demonstrations of the importance of behavioral state on sensory processing and attention. Arousal plays a dominant role in controlling brain-wide neural activity patterns, particularly through modulation by norepinephrine. Noradrenergic brainstem nuclei, including locus coeruleus, can be activated by stimuli of multiple sensory modalities and broadcast modulatory signals via axonal projections throughout the brain. This organization might suggest proportional brain-wide norepinephrine release during states of heightened vigilance. Here, however, we have found that low-intensity, nonarousing visual stimuli enhanced vigilance-dependent noradrenergic signaling locally in visual cortex, revealed using dual-site fiber photometry to monitor noradrenergic Ca2+ responses of astroglia simultaneously in cerebellum and visual cortex and two-photon microscopy to monitor noradrenergic axonal terminal Ca2+ dynamics. Nitric oxide, following N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor activation in neuronal nitric oxide synthase-positive interneurons, mediated transient acceleration of norepinephrine-dependent astroglia Ca2+ activation. These findings reveal a candidate cortical microcircuit for sensory modality-selective modulation of attention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shawn R. Gray
- Department of Cellular and Integrative Physiology, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
- Joint UTSA/UTHSCSA Graduate Program in Biomedical Engineering, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Liang Ye
- Department of Cellular and Integrative Physiology, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Jing Yong Ye
- Joint UTSA/UTHSCSA Graduate Program in Biomedical Engineering, San Antonio, TX, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Martin Paukert
- Department of Cellular and Integrative Physiology, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
- Joint UTSA/UTHSCSA Graduate Program in Biomedical Engineering, San Antonio, TX, USA
- Center for Biomedical Neuroscience, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
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