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Akter M, Fu Z, Zheng X, Iqbal Z, Zhang N, Karim A, Li Y. Astrocytic GPCR signaling in the anterior cingulate cortex modulates decision making in rats. OXFORD OPEN NEUROSCIENCE 2024; 3:kvae010. [PMID: 38915791 PMCID: PMC11194462 DOI: 10.1093/oons/kvae010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2023] [Revised: 06/02/2024] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/26/2024]
Abstract
Decision making is a process of selecting a course of action by assessing the worth or value of the potential consequences. Rat Gambling Task (RGT) is a well-established behavioral paradigm that allows for assessment of the decision-making performance of rats. Astrocytes are emerging as key players in modulating cognitive functions. Using repeated RGTs with short intersession time intervals (48 h), the current study demonstrates that Gi pathway activation of astrocytes in the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) leads to impaired decision-making in consistently good decision-making rats. On the other hand, ACC astrocytic Gq pathway activation improves decision-making in a subset of rats who are not consistently good decision-makers. Furthermore, we show that astrocytic Gq activation is associated with an increase in the L-lactate level in the extracellular fluid of the ACC. Together, these results expand our knowledge of the role of astrocytic GPCR signaling in modulating cognitive functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mastura Akter
- Department of Neuroscience, City University of Hong Kong, 83 Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong, SAR, China
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, 83 Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong, SAR, China
| | - Zhongqi Fu
- Department of Neuroscience, City University of Hong Kong, 83 Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong, SAR, China
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, 83 Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong, SAR, China
| | - Xianlin Zheng
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, 83 Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong, SAR, China
| | - Zafar Iqbal
- Department of Neuroscience, City University of Hong Kong, 83 Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong, SAR, China
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, 83 Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong, SAR, China
- Centre for Regenerative Medicine and Health, Hong Kong Institute of Science & Innovation, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 15 Science Park West Avenue, Hong Kong Science Park, Pak Shek Kok, New Territories, Hong Kong, SAR, China
- Hong Kong Institute of Science & Innovation, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 17W, Science Park West Avenue, Hong Kong Science Park, Pak Shek Kok, New Territories, Hong Kong, SAR, China
| | - Na Zhang
- Department of Neuroscience, City University of Hong Kong, 83 Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong, SAR, China
| | - Anwarul Karim
- Department of Neuroscience, City University of Hong Kong, 83 Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong, SAR, China
| | - Ying Li
- Department of Neuroscience, City University of Hong Kong, 83 Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong, SAR, China
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, 83 Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong, SAR, China
- Centre for Regenerative Medicine and Health, Hong Kong Institute of Science & Innovation, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 15 Science Park West Avenue, Hong Kong Science Park, Pak Shek Kok, New Territories, Hong Kong, SAR, China
- Hong Kong Institute of Science & Innovation, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 17W, Science Park West Avenue, Hong Kong Science Park, Pak Shek Kok, New Territories, Hong Kong, SAR, China
- Centre for Biosystems, Neuroscience, and Nanotechnology, City University of Hong Kong, 83 Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong, SAR, China
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2
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Kim YJ, Tohyama S, Nagashima T, Nagase M, Hida Y, Hamada S, Watabe AM, Ohtsuka T. A light-controlled phospholipase C for imaging of lipid dynamics and controlling neural plasticity. Cell Chem Biol 2024:S2451-9456(24)00090-4. [PMID: 38582083 DOI: 10.1016/j.chembiol.2024.03.001] [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: 10/25/2023] [Revised: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/08/2024]
Abstract
Phospholipase C (PLC) is a key enzyme that regulates physiological processes via lipid and calcium signaling. Despite advances in protein engineering, no tools are available for direct PLC control. Here, we developed a novel optogenetic tool, light-controlled PLCβ (opto-PLCβ). Opto-PLCβ uses a light-induced dimer module, which directs an engineered PLC to the plasma membrane in a light-dependent manner. Our design includes an autoinhibitory capacity, ensuring stringent control over PLC activity. Opto-PLCβ triggers reversible calcium responses and lipid dynamics in a restricted region, allowing precise spatiotemporal control of PLC signaling. Using our system, we discovered that phospholipase D-mediated phosphatidic acid contributes to diacylglycerol clearance on the plasma membrane. Moreover, we extended its applicability in vivo, demonstrating that opto-PLCβ can enhance amygdala synaptic plasticity and associative fear learning in mice. Thus, opto-PLCβ offers precise spatiotemporal control, enabling comprehensive investigation of PLC-mediated signaling pathways, lipid dynamics, and their physiological consequences in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yeon-Jeong Kim
- Department of Biochemistry, Graduate School of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Yamanashi, 1110 Shimokato, Chuo, Yamanashi 409-3898, Japan
| | - Suguru Tohyama
- Institute of Clinical Medicine and Research, Research Center for Medical Sciences, The Jikei University School of Medicine, Chiba, Japan
| | - Takashi Nagashima
- Institute of Clinical Medicine and Research, Research Center for Medical Sciences, The Jikei University School of Medicine, Chiba, Japan
| | - Masashi Nagase
- Institute of Clinical Medicine and Research, Research Center for Medical Sciences, The Jikei University School of Medicine, Chiba, Japan
| | - Yamato Hida
- Department of Biochemistry, Graduate School of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Yamanashi, 1110 Shimokato, Chuo, Yamanashi 409-3898, Japan
| | - Shun Hamada
- Department of Biochemistry, Graduate School of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Yamanashi, 1110 Shimokato, Chuo, Yamanashi 409-3898, Japan
| | - Ayako M Watabe
- Institute of Clinical Medicine and Research, Research Center for Medical Sciences, The Jikei University School of Medicine, Chiba, Japan.
| | - Toshihisa Ohtsuka
- Department of Biochemistry, Graduate School of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Yamanashi, 1110 Shimokato, Chuo, Yamanashi 409-3898, Japan.
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3
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Refaeli R, Kreisel T, Yaish TR, Groysman M, Goshen I. Astrocytes control recent and remote memory strength by affecting the recruitment of the CA1→ACC projection to engrams. Cell Rep 2024; 43:113943. [PMID: 38483907 PMCID: PMC10995765 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2024.113943] [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: 10/08/2023] [Revised: 01/14/2024] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024] Open
Abstract
The maturation of engrams from recent to remote time points involves the recruitment of CA1 neurons projecting to the anterior cingulate cortex (CA1→ACC). Modifications of G-protein-coupled receptor pathways in CA1 astrocytes affect recent and remote recall in seemingly contradictory ways. To address this inconsistency, we manipulated these pathways in astrocytes during memory acquisition and tagged c-Fos-positive engram cells and CA1→ACC cells during recent and remote recall. The behavioral results were coupled with changes in the recruitment of CA1→ACC projection cells to the engram: Gq pathway activation in astrocytes caused enhancement of recent recall alone and was accompanied by earlier recruitment of CA1→ACC projecting cells to the engram. In contrast, Gi pathway activation in astrocytes resulted in the impairment of only remote recall, and CA1→ACC projecting cells were not recruited during remote memory. Finally, we provide a simple working model, hypothesizing that Gq and Gi pathway activation affect memory differently, by modulating the same mechanism: CA1→ACC projection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ron Refaeli
- Edmond and Lily Safra Center for Brain Sciences (ELSC), The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 91904, Israel
| | - Tirzah Kreisel
- Edmond and Lily Safra Center for Brain Sciences (ELSC), The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 91904, Israel
| | | | - Maya Groysman
- ELSC Vector Core Facility, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 91904, Israel
| | - Inbal Goshen
- Edmond and Lily Safra Center for Brain Sciences (ELSC), The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 91904, Israel.
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4
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Shigetomi E, Sakai K, Koizumi S. Extracellular ATP/adenosine dynamics in the brain and its role in health and disease. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 11:1343653. [PMID: 38304611 PMCID: PMC10830686 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1343653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 12/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Extracellular ATP and adenosine are neuromodulators that regulate numerous neuronal functions in the brain. Neuronal activity and brain insults such as ischemic and traumatic injury upregulate these neuromodulators, which exert their effects by activating purinergic receptors. In addition, extracellular ATP/adenosine signaling plays a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of neurological diseases. Virtually every cell type in the brain contributes to the elevation of ATP/adenosine, and various mechanisms underlying this increase have been proposed. Extracellular adenosine is thought to be mainly produced via the degradation of extracellular ATP. However, adenosine is also released from neurons and glia in the brain. Therefore, the regulation of extracellular ATP/adenosine in physiological and pathophysiological conditions is likely far more complex than previously thought. To elucidate the complex mechanisms that regulate extracellular ATP/adenosine levels, accurate methods of assessing their spatiotemporal dynamics are needed. Several novel techniques for acquiring spatiotemporal information on extracellular ATP/adenosine, including fluorescent sensors, have been developed and have started to reveal the mechanisms underlying the release, uptake and degradation of ATP/adenosine. Here, we review methods for analyzing extracellular ATP/adenosine dynamics as well as the current state of knowledge on the spatiotemporal dynamics of ATP/adenosine in the brain. We focus on the mechanisms used by neurons and glia to cooperatively produce the activity-dependent increase in ATP/adenosine and its physiological and pathophysiological significance in the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eiji Shigetomi
- Department of Neuropharmacology, Interdisciplinary Graduate School of Medicine, University of Yamanashi, Chuo, Japan
- Yamanashi GLIA Center, Interdisciplinary Graduate School of Medicine, University of Yamanashi, Chuo, Japan
| | - Kent Sakai
- Department of Neuropharmacology, Interdisciplinary Graduate School of Medicine, University of Yamanashi, Chuo, Japan
- Yamanashi GLIA Center, Interdisciplinary Graduate School of Medicine, University of Yamanashi, Chuo, Japan
| | - Schuichi Koizumi
- Department of Neuropharmacology, Interdisciplinary Graduate School of Medicine, University of Yamanashi, Chuo, Japan
- Yamanashi GLIA Center, Interdisciplinary Graduate School of Medicine, University of Yamanashi, Chuo, Japan
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Courtney CD, Sobieski C, Ramakrishnan C, Ingram RJ, Wojnowski NM, DeFazio RA, Deisseroth K, Christian-Hinman CA. Optoα1AR activation in astrocytes modulates basal hippocampal synaptic excitation and inhibition in a stimulation-specific manner. Hippocampus 2023; 33:1277-1291. [PMID: 37767862 PMCID: PMC10842237 DOI: 10.1002/hipo.23580] [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: 06/09/2023] [Revised: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
Astrocytes play active roles at synapses and can monitor, respond, and adapt to local synaptic activity. While there is abundant evidence that astrocytes modulate excitatory transmission in the hippocampus, evidence for astrocytic modulation of hippocampal synaptic inhibition remains more limited. Furthermore, to better investigate roles for astrocytes in modulating synaptic transmission, more tools that can selectively activate native G protein signaling pathways in astrocytes with both spatial and temporal precision are needed. Here, we utilized AAV8-GFAP-Optoα1AR-eYFP (Optoα1AR), a viral vector that enables activation of Gq signaling in astrocytes via light-sensitive α1-adrenergic receptors. To determine if stimulating astrocytic Optoα1AR modulates hippocampal synaptic transmission, recordings were made in CA1 pyramidal cells with surrounding astrocytes expressing Optoα1AR, channelrhodopsin (ChR2), or GFP. Both high-frequency (20 Hz, 45-ms light pulses, 5 mW, 5 min) and low-frequency (0.5 Hz, 1-s pulses at increasing 1, 5, and 10 mW intensities, 90 s per intensity) blue light stimulation were tested. 20 Hz Optoα1AR stimulation increased both inhibitory and excitatory postsynaptic current (IPSC and EPSC) frequency, and the effect on miniature IPSCs (mIPSCs) was largely reversible within 20 min. However, low-frequency stimulation of Optoα1AR did not modulate either IPSCs or EPSCs, suggesting that astrocytic Gq -dependent modulation of basal synaptic transmission in the hippocampus is stimulation-dependent. By contrast, low-frequency stimulation of astrocytic ChR2 was effective in increasing both synaptic excitation and inhibition. Together, these data demonstrate that Optoα1AR activation in astrocytes changes basal GABAergic and glutamatergic transmission, but only following high-frequency stimulation, highlighting the importance of temporal dynamics when using optical tools to manipulate astrocyte function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Connor D Courtney
- Neuroscience Program, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, USA
| | - Courtney Sobieski
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, USA
- Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, USA
| | - Charu Ramakrishnan
- Department of Bioengineering, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Robbie J Ingram
- Neuroscience Program, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, USA
| | - Natalia M Wojnowski
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, USA
| | - R Anthony DeFazio
- Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Karl Deisseroth
- Department of Bioengineering, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Catherine A Christian-Hinman
- Neuroscience Program, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, USA
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, USA
- Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, USA
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6
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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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7
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Ozawa K, Nagao M, Konno A, Iwai Y, Vittani M, Kusk P, Mishima T, Hirai H, Nedergaard M, Hirase H. Astrocytic GPCR-Induced Ca 2+ Signaling Is Not Causally Related to Local Cerebral Blood Flow Changes. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:13590. [PMID: 37686396 PMCID: PMC10487464 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241713590] [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: 03/21/2023] [Revised: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 08/27/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Activation of Gq-type G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) gives rise to large cytosolic Ca2+ elevations in astrocytes. Previous in vitro and in vivo studies have indicated that astrocytic Ca2+ elevations are closely associated with diameter changes in the nearby blood vessels, which astrocytes enwrap with their endfeet. However, the causal relationship between astrocytic Ca2+ elevations and blood vessel diameter changes has been questioned, as mice with diminished astrocytic Ca2+ signaling show normal sensory hyperemia. We addressed this controversy by imaging cortical vasculature while optogenetically elevating astrocyte Ca2+ in a novel transgenic mouse line, expressing Opto-Gq-type GPCR Optoα1AR (Astro-Optoα1AR) in astrocytes. Blue light illumination on the surface of the somatosensory cortex induced Ca2+ elevations in cortical astrocytes and their endfeet in mice under anesthesia. Blood vessel diameter did not change significantly with Optoα1AR-induced Ca2+ elevations in astrocytes, while it was increased by forelimb stimulation. Next, we labeled blood plasma with red fluorescence using AAV8-P3-Alb-mScarlet in Astro-Optoα1AR mice. We were able to identify arterioles that display diameter changes in superficial areas of the somatosensory cortex through the thinned skull. Photo-stimulation of astrocytes in the cortical area did not result in noticeable changes in the arteriole diameters compared with their background strain C57BL/6. Together, compelling evidence for astrocytic Gq pathway-induced vasodiameter changes was not observed. Our results support the notion that short-term (<10 s) hyperemia is not mediated by GPCR-induced astrocytic Ca2+ signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katsuya Ozawa
- Laboratory for Neuron-Glia Circuitry, RIKEN Center for Brain Science, Wako 351-0106, Saitama, Japan; (K.O.)
| | - Masaki Nagao
- Center for Translational Neuromedicine, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 1172 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ayumu Konno
- Department of Neurophysiology and Neural Repair, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Maebashi 371-8511, Gunma, Japan
- Viral Vector Core, Gunma University, Initiative for Advanced Research, Maebashi 371-8511, Gunma, Japan
| | - Youichi Iwai
- Laboratory for Neuron-Glia Circuitry, RIKEN Center for Brain Science, Wako 351-0106, Saitama, Japan; (K.O.)
| | - Marta Vittani
- Center for Translational Neuromedicine, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 1172 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Peter Kusk
- Center for Translational Neuromedicine, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 1172 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Tsuneko Mishima
- Center for Translational Neuromedicine, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 1172 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Hirokazu Hirai
- Department of Neurophysiology and Neural Repair, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Maebashi 371-8511, Gunma, Japan
- Viral Vector Core, Gunma University, Initiative for Advanced Research, Maebashi 371-8511, Gunma, Japan
| | - Maiken Nedergaard
- Center for Translational Neuromedicine, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 1172 Copenhagen, Denmark
- Center for Translational Neuromedicine, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY 14642, USA
| | - Hajime Hirase
- Center for Translational Neuromedicine, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 1172 Copenhagen, Denmark
- Center for Translational Neuromedicine, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY 14642, USA
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8
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Ingiosi AM, Hayworth CR, Frank MG. Activation of Basal Forebrain Astrocytes Induces Wakefulness without Compensatory Changes in Sleep Drive. J Neurosci 2023; 43:5792-5809. [PMID: 37487739 PMCID: PMC10423050 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.0163-23.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2023] [Revised: 07/08/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Mammalian sleep is regulated by a homeostatic process that increases sleep drive and intensity as a function of prior wake time. Sleep homeostasis has traditionally been thought to be a product of neurons, but recent findings demonstrate that this process is also modulated by glial astrocytes. The precise role of astrocytes in the accumulation and discharge of sleep drive is unknown. We investigated this question by selectively activating basal forebrain (BF) astrocytes using designer receptors exclusively activated by designer drugs (DREADDs) in male and female mice. DREADD activation of the Gq-protein-coupled pathway in BF astrocytes produced long and continuous periods of wakefulness that paradoxically did not cause the expected homeostatic response to sleep loss (e.g., increases in sleep time or intensity). Further investigations showed that this was not because of indirect effects of the ligand that activated DREADDs. These findings suggest that the need for sleep is not only driven by wakefulness per se, but also by specific neuronal-glial circuits that are differentially activated in wakefulness.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Sleep drive is controlled by a homeostatic process that increases sleep duration and intensity based on prior time spent awake. Non-neuronal brain cells (e.g., glial astrocytes) influence this homeostatic process, but their precise role is unclear. We used a genetic technique to activate astrocytes in the basal forebrain (BF) of mice, a brain region important for sleep and wake expression and sleep homeostasis. Astroglial activation induced prolonged wakefulness without the expected homeostatic increase in sleep drive (i.e., sleep duration and intensity). These findings indicate that our need to sleep is also driven by non-neuronal cells, and not only by time spent awake.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley M Ingiosi
- Department of Translational Medicine and Physiology, Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine, Washington State University, Spokane, Washington 99202
| | - Christopher R Hayworth
- Department of Translational Medicine and Physiology, Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine, Washington State University, Spokane, Washington 99202
| | - Marcos G Frank
- Department of Translational Medicine and Physiology, Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine, Washington State University, Spokane, Washington 99202
- Gleason Institute for Neuroscience, Washington State University, Spokane, Washington 99202
- Sleep Performance and Research Center, Washington State University, Spokane, Washington, 99202
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9
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Sato K, Yamashita T, Ohuchi H. Mammalian type opsin 5 preferentially activates G14 in Gq-type G proteins triggering intracellular calcium response. J Biol Chem 2023; 299:105020. [PMID: 37423300 PMCID: PMC10432815 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2023.105020] [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: 12/20/2022] [Revised: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 07/01/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Mammalian type opsin 5 (Opn5m), a UV-sensitive G protein-coupled receptor opsin highly conserved in vertebrates, would provide a common basis for UV sensing from lamprey to humans. However, G protein coupled with Opn5m remains controversial due to variations in assay conditions and the origin of Opn5m across different reports. Here, we examined Opn5m from diverse species using an aequorin luminescence assay and Gα-KO cell line. Beyond the commonly studied major Gα classes, Gαq, Gα11, Gα14, and Gα15 in the Gq class were individually investigated in this study, as they can drive distinct signaling pathways in addition to a canonical calcium response. UV light triggered a calcium response via all the tested Opn5m proteins in 293T cells, which was abolished by Gq-type Gα deletion and rescued by cotransfection with mouse and medaka Gq-type Gα proteins. Opn5m preferentially activated Gα14 and close relatives. Mutational analysis implicated specific regions, including α3-β5 and αG-α4 loops, αG and α4 helices, and the extreme C terminus, in the preferential activation of Gα14 by Opn5m. FISH revealed co-expression of genes encoding Opn5m and Gα14 in the scleral cartilage of medaka and chicken eyes, supporting their physiological coupling. This suggests that the preferential activation of Gα14 by Opn5m is relevant for UV sensing in specific cell types.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keita Sato
- Department of Cytology and Histology, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University, Okayama City, Okayama, Japan.
| | - Takahiro Yamashita
- Department of Biophysics, Graduate School of Science, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Hideyo Ohuchi
- Department of Cytology and Histology, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University, Okayama City, Okayama, Japan.
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10
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Kanaya T, Ito R, Morizawa YM, Sasaki D, Yamao H, Ishikane H, Hiraoka Y, Tanaka K, Matsui K. Glial modulation of the parallel memory formation. Glia 2023. [PMID: 37364894 DOI: 10.1002/glia.24431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2022] [Revised: 06/04/2023] [Accepted: 06/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
Actions from glial cells could affect the readiness and efficacy of learning and memory. Using a mouse cerebellar-dependent horizontal optokinetic response motor learning paradigm, short-term memory (STM) formation during the online training period and long-term memory (LTM) formation during the offline rest period were studied. A large variability of online and offline learning efficacies was found. The early bloomers with booming STM often had a suppressed LTM formation and late bloomers with no apparent acute training effect often exhibited boosted offline learning performance. Anion channels containing LRRC8A are known to release glutamate. Conditional knockout of LRRC8A specifically in astrocytes including cerebellar Bergmann glia resulted in a complete loss of STM formation while the LTM formation during the rest period remained. Optogenetic manipulation of glial activity by channelrhodopsin-2 or archaerhodopsin-T (ArchT) during the online training resulted in enhancement or suppression of STM formation, respectively. STM and LTM are likely to be triggered simultaneously during online training, but LTM is expressed later during the offline period. STM appears to be volatile and the achievement during the online training is not handed over to LTM. In addition, we found that glial ArchT photoactivation during the rest period resulted in the augmentation of LTM formation. These data suggest that STM formation and LTM formation are parallel separate processes. Strategies to weigh more on the STM or the LTM could depend on the actions of the glial cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teppei Kanaya
- Super-Network Brain Physiology, Graduate School of Medicine, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan
| | - Ryo Ito
- Super-Network Brain Physiology, Graduate School of Life Sciences, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan
| | - Yosuke M Morizawa
- Super-Network Brain Physiology, Graduate School of Life Sciences, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan
| | - Daichi Sasaki
- Super-Network Brain Physiology, Graduate School of Life Sciences, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan
| | - Hiroki Yamao
- Super-Network Brain Physiology, Graduate School of Life Sciences, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Ishikane
- Department of Psychology, Graduate School of Humanities, Senshu University, Kawasaki, Japan
| | - Yuichi Hiraoka
- Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, Medical Research Institute (MRI), Tokyo Medical and Dental University (TMDU), Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kohichi Tanaka
- Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, Medical Research Institute (MRI), Tokyo Medical and Dental University (TMDU), Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ko Matsui
- Super-Network Brain Physiology, Graduate School of Medicine, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan
- Super-Network Brain Physiology, Graduate School of Life Sciences, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan
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11
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Ma W, Si T, Wang Z, Wen P, Zhu Z, Liu Q, Wang J, Xu F, Li Q. Astrocytic α4-containing nAChR signaling in the hippocampus governs the formation of temporal association memory. Cell Rep 2023; 42:112674. [PMID: 37352098 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2023.112674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Revised: 03/24/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Everyday episodic memories involve linking together related events that are temporally separated. However, the mechanisms of forming this temporal association have remained unclear. Here, using astrocyte-specific manipulations, we show that potentiating astrocyte Ca2+ signaling in the hippocampal cornu ammonis 1 (CA1) enhances the strength of such temporal association, in parallel with long-term potentiation (LTP) enhancement of temporoammonic pathway to CA1, whereas attenuation of astrocyte Ca2+ signaling has the opposite effect. Moreover, we identify that these effects are mediated by astrocytic α4 subunit-containing nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (α4-nAChRs) via mechanisms involving NMDAR co-agonist supply. Finally, astrocytic α4-nAChRs underlie the cognitive enhancer nicotine's physiological effects. Together, these findings highlight the importance of astrocyte Ca2+ signaling in cognitive behavior and reveal a mechanism in governing the temporal association of episodic memory formation that operates through α4-nAChRs on hippocampal astrocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenyu Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance and Atomic and Molecular Physics, Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance in Biological Systems, Wuhan Center for Magnetic Resonance, Innovation Academy for Precision Measurement Science and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430071, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Tengxiao Si
- State Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance and Atomic and Molecular Physics, Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance in Biological Systems, Wuhan Center for Magnetic Resonance, Innovation Academy for Precision Measurement Science and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430071, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Zan Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance and Atomic and Molecular Physics, Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance in Biological Systems, Wuhan Center for Magnetic Resonance, Innovation Academy for Precision Measurement Science and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430071, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Pengjie Wen
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Viral Vectors for Biomedicine, NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Viral Vector Technology in Cell and Gene Therapy Medicinal Products, Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science-Shenzhen Fundamental Research Institutions, Brain Cognition and Brain Disease Institute (BCBDI), Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Zhenxiang Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance and Atomic and Molecular Physics, Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance in Biological Systems, Wuhan Center for Magnetic Resonance, Innovation Academy for Precision Measurement Science and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430071, China; Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Viral Vectors for Biomedicine, NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Viral Vector Technology in Cell and Gene Therapy Medicinal Products, Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science-Shenzhen Fundamental Research Institutions, Brain Cognition and Brain Disease Institute (BCBDI), Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518055, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Qing Liu
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Viral Vectors for Biomedicine, NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Viral Vector Technology in Cell and Gene Therapy Medicinal Products, Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science-Shenzhen Fundamental Research Institutions, Brain Cognition and Brain Disease Institute (BCBDI), Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518055, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Jie Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance and Atomic and Molecular Physics, Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance in Biological Systems, Wuhan Center for Magnetic Resonance, Innovation Academy for Precision Measurement Science and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430071, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Fuqiang Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance and Atomic and Molecular Physics, Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance in Biological Systems, Wuhan Center for Magnetic Resonance, Innovation Academy for Precision Measurement Science and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430071, China; Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Viral Vectors for Biomedicine, NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Viral Vector Technology in Cell and Gene Therapy Medicinal Products, Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science-Shenzhen Fundamental Research Institutions, Brain Cognition and Brain Disease Institute (BCBDI), Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518055, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China.
| | - Qin Li
- State Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance and Atomic and Molecular Physics, Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance in Biological Systems, Wuhan Center for Magnetic Resonance, Innovation Academy for Precision Measurement Science and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430071, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China.
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12
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Hirase H, Nedergaard M. Locomotion Induces Fundamentally Different Patterns of Ca 2+ Signaling in Astrocytes and Neurons. FUNCTION 2023; 4:zqad028. [PMID: 37361194 PMCID: PMC10290529 DOI: 10.1093/function/zqad028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | - Maiken Nedergaard
- Center for Translational Neuromedicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen 2200, Denmark
- Center for Translational Neuromedicine, Department of Neurosurgery, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY 14642, USA
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13
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Rasmussen RN, Asiminas A, Carlsen EMM, Kjaerby C, Smith NA. Astrocytes: integrators of arousal state and sensory context. Trends Neurosci 2023; 46:418-425. [PMID: 37003933 PMCID: PMC10192111 DOI: 10.1016/j.tins.2023.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2023] [Revised: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/05/2023] [Indexed: 04/01/2023]
Abstract
The integration of external information with the internal state of the body is central to the survival of virtually every multicellular organism. However, a complete picture of the mechanisms that govern this process is lacking. In this opinion article, we synthesize evidence demonstrating that astrocytes sense the momentary arousal state - through neuromodulator release - as well as the sensory inputs - through local synaptic activity - and respond to them with changes in calcium (Ca2+) signaling. We hypothesize that astrocytes integrate sensory signals with the internal state and that this process is necessary to secure optimal behavior. Finally, we argue that dysfunctional astrocytic Ca2+ signaling could be an underlying factor in disorders characterized by disrupted sensory processing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rune Nguyen Rasmussen
- Center for Translational Neuromedicine, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Antonis Asiminas
- Center for Translational Neuromedicine, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Celia Kjaerby
- Center for Translational Neuromedicine, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Nathan Anthony Smith
- Del Monte Institute for Neuroscience, Department of Neuroscience, University of Rochester, School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY 14642, USA.
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14
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Delepine C, Shih J, Li K, Gaudeaux P, Sur M. Differential Effects of Astrocyte Manipulations on Learned Motor Behavior and Neuronal Ensembles in the Motor Cortex. J Neurosci 2023; 43:2696-2713. [PMID: 36894315 PMCID: PMC10089242 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.1982-22.2023] [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: 10/20/2022] [Revised: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Although motor cortex is crucial for learning precise and reliable movements, whether and how astrocytes contribute to its plasticity and function during motor learning is unknown. Here, we report that astrocyte-specific manipulations in primary motor cortex (M1) during a lever push task alter motor learning and execution, as well as the underlying neuronal population coding. Mice that express decreased levels of the astrocyte glutamate transporter 1 (GLT1) show impaired and variable movement trajectories, whereas mice with increased astrocyte Gq signaling show decreased performance rates, delayed response times, and impaired trajectories. In both groups, which include male and female mice, M1 neurons have altered interneuronal correlations and impaired population representations of task parameters, including response time and movement trajectories. RNA sequencing further supports a role for M1 astrocytes in motor learning and shows changes in astrocytic expression of glutamate transporter genes, GABA transporter genes, and extracellular matrix protein genes in mice that have acquired this learned behavior. Thus, astrocytes coordinate M1 neuronal activity during motor learning, and our results suggest that this contributes to learned movement execution and dexterity through mechanisms that include regulation of neurotransmitter transport and calcium signaling.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT We demonstrate for the first time that in the M1 of mice, astrocyte function is critical for coordinating neuronal population activity during motor learning. We demonstrate that knockdown of astrocyte glutamate transporter GLT1 affects specific components of learning, such as smooth trajectory formation. Altering astrocyte calcium signaling by activation of Gq-DREADD upregulates GLT1 and affects other components of learning, such as response rates and reaction times as well as trajectory smoothness. In both manipulations, neuronal activity in motor cortex is dysregulated, but in different ways. Thus, astrocytes have a crucial role in motor learning via their influence on motor cortex neurons, and they do so by mechanisms that include regulation of glutamate transport and calcium signals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chloe Delepine
- The Picower Institute for Learning and Memory, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139
- Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139
| | - Jennifer Shih
- The Picower Institute for Learning and Memory, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139
- Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139
| | - Keji Li
- The Picower Institute for Learning and Memory, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139
- Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139
| | - Pierre Gaudeaux
- The Picower Institute for Learning and Memory, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139
| | - Mriganka Sur
- The Picower Institute for Learning and Memory, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139
- Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139
- Simons Center for the Social Brain, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139
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15
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Astrocytes in memory formation and maintenance. Essays Biochem 2023; 67:107-117. [PMID: 36148596 DOI: 10.1042/ebc20220091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2022] [Revised: 09/05/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Learning and memory are fundamental but highly complex functions of the brain. They rely on multiple mechanisms including the processing of sensory information, memory formation, maintenance of short- and long-term memory, memory retrieval and memory extinction. Recent experiments provide strong evidence that, besides neurons, astrocytes crucially contribute to these higher brain functions. However, the complex interplay of astrocytes and neurons in local neuron-glia assemblies is far from being understood. Although important basic cellular principles that govern and link neuronal and astrocytic cellular functions have been established, additional mechanisms clearly continue to emerge. In this short essay, we first review current technologies allowing the experimenter to explore the role of astrocytes in behaving animals, with focus on spatial memory. We then discuss astrocytic signaling mechanisms and their role in learning and memory. We also reveal gaps in our knowledge that currently prevent a comprehensive understanding of how astrocytes contribute to acquisition, storage and retrieval of memory by modulating neuronal signaling in local circuits.
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16
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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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17
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Maltsev A, Roshchin M, Bezprozvanny I, Smirnov I, Vlasova O, Balaban P, Borodinova A. Bidirectional regulation by "star forces": Ionotropic astrocyte's optical stimulation suppresses synaptic plasticity, metabotropic one strikes back. Hippocampus 2023; 33:18-36. [PMID: 36484471 DOI: 10.1002/hipo.23486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2022] [Revised: 11/24/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The role of astrocytes in modulating synaptic plasticity is an important question that until recently was not addressed due to limitations of previously existing technology. In the present study, we took an advantage of optogenetics to specifically activate astrocytes in hippocampal slices in order to study effects on synaptic function. Using the AAV-based delivery strategy, we expressed the ionotropic channelrhodopsin-2 (ChR2) or the metabotropic Gq-coupled Opto-a1AR opsins specifically in hippocampal astrocytes to compare different modalities of astrocyte activation. In electrophysiological experiments, we observed a depression of basal field excitatory postsynaptic potentials (fEPSPs) in the CA1 hippocampal layer following light stimulation of astrocytic ChR2. The ChR2-mediated depression increased under simultaneous light and electrical theta-burst stimulation (TBS). Application of the type 2 purinergic receptor antagonist suramin prevented depression of basal synaptic transmission, and switched the ChR2-dependent depression into potentiation. The GABAB receptor antagonist, phaclofen, did not prevent the depression of basal fEPSPs, but switched the ChR2-dependent depression into potentiation comparable to the values for TBS in control slices. In contrast, light stimulation of Opto-a1AR expressed in astrocytes led to an increase in basal fEPSPs, as well as a potentiation of synaptic responses to TBS significantly. A specific blocker of the Gq protein downstream target, the phospholipase C, U73122, completely prevented the effects of Opto-a1AR stimulation on basal fEPSPs or Opto + TBS responses. To understand molecular basis for the observed effects, we performed an analysis of gene expression in these slices using quantitative PCR approach. We observed a significant upregulation of "immediate-early" gene expression in hippocampal slices after light activation of Opto-a1AR-expressing astrocytes alone (cRel, Arc, Fos, JunB, and Egr1) or paired with TBS (cRel, Fos, and Egr1). Activation of ChR2-expressing hippocampal astrocytes was insufficient to affect expression of these genes in our experimental conditions. Thus, we concluded that optostimulation of astrocytes with ChR2 and Opto-a1AR optogenetic tools enables bidirectional modulation of synaptic plasticity and gene expression in hippocampus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Maltsev
- Laboratory of Cellular Neurobiology of Learning, Institute of Higher Nervous Activity and Neurophysiology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - Matvey Roshchin
- Laboratory of Cellular Neurobiology of Learning, Institute of Higher Nervous Activity and Neurophysiology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - Ilya Bezprozvanny
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurodegeneration, Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University, St. Petersburg, Russia.,Department of Physiology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Ivan Smirnov
- Laboratory of Cellular Neurobiology of Learning, Institute of Higher Nervous Activity and Neurophysiology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - Olga Vlasova
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurodegeneration, Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Pavel Balaban
- Laboratory of Cellular Neurobiology of Learning, Institute of Higher Nervous Activity and Neurophysiology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - Anastasia Borodinova
- Laboratory of Cellular Neurobiology of Learning, Institute of Higher Nervous Activity and Neurophysiology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
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18
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Takahashi TM, Hirano A, Kanda T, Saito VM, Ashitomi H, Tanaka KZ, Yokoshiki Y, Masuda K, Yanagisawa M, Vogt KE, Tokuda T, Sakurai T. Optogenetic induction of hibernation-like state with modified human Opsin4 in mice. CELL REPORTS METHODS 2022; 2:100336. [PMID: 36452866 PMCID: PMC9701604 DOI: 10.1016/j.crmeth.2022.100336] [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: 01/25/2022] [Revised: 09/01/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
We recently determined that the excitatory manipulation of Qrfp-expressing neurons in the preoptic area of the hypothalamus (quiescence-inducing neurons [Q neurons]) induced a hibernation-like hypothermic/hypometabolic state (QIH) in mice. To control the QIH with a higher time resolution, we develop an optogenetic method using modified human opsin4 (OPN4; also known as melanopsin), a G protein-coupled-receptor-type blue-light photoreceptor. C-terminally truncated OPN4 (OPN4dC) stably and reproducibly induces QIH for at least 24 h by illumination with low-power light (3 μW, 473 nm laser) with high temporal resolution. The high sensitivity of OPN4dC allows us to transcranially stimulate Q neurons with blue-light-emitting diodes and non-invasively induce the QIH. OPN4dC-mediated QIH recapitulates the kinetics of the physiological changes observed in natural hibernation, revealing that Q neurons concurrently contribute to thermoregulation and cardiovascular function. This optogenetic method may facilitate identification of the neural mechanisms underlying long-term dormancy states such as sleep, daily torpor, and hibernation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tohru M. Takahashi
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
- International Integrative Institute for Sleep medicine (WPI-IIIS), University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Arisa Hirano
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
- International Integrative Institute for Sleep medicine (WPI-IIIS), University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
- JST PRESTO, Japan
| | - Takeshi Kanda
- International Integrative Institute for Sleep medicine (WPI-IIIS), University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Viviane M. Saito
- Memory Research Unit, Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University (OIST), Okinawa, Japan
| | - Hiroto Ashitomi
- Memory Research Unit, Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University (OIST), Okinawa, Japan
| | - Kazumasa Z. Tanaka
- Memory Research Unit, Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University (OIST), Okinawa, Japan
| | - Yasufumi Yokoshiki
- Institute of Innovative Research (IIR), Tokyo Institute of Technology, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kosaku Masuda
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
- International Integrative Institute for Sleep medicine (WPI-IIIS), University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Masashi Yanagisawa
- International Integrative Institute for Sleep medicine (WPI-IIIS), University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Kaspar E. Vogt
- International Integrative Institute for Sleep medicine (WPI-IIIS), University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Takashi Tokuda
- JST PRESTO, Japan
- Institute of Innovative Research (IIR), Tokyo Institute of Technology, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takeshi Sakurai
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
- International Integrative Institute for Sleep medicine (WPI-IIIS), University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
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19
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Kruyer A. Astrocyte Heterogeneity in Regulation of Synaptic Activity. Cells 2022; 11:cells11193135. [PMID: 36231097 PMCID: PMC9562199 DOI: 10.3390/cells11193135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2022] [Revised: 10/02/2022] [Accepted: 10/02/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Our awareness of the number of synapse regulatory functions performed by astroglia is rapidly expanding, raising interesting questions regarding astrocyte heterogeneity and specialization across brain regions. Whether all astrocytes are poised to signal in a multitude of ways, or are instead tuned to surrounding synapses and how astroglial signaling is altered in psychiatric and cognitive disorders are fundamental questions for the field. In recent years, molecular and morphological characterization of astroglial types has broadened our ability to design studies to better analyze and manipulate specific functions of astroglia. Recent data emerging from these studies will be discussed in depth in this review. I also highlight remaining questions emerging from new techniques recently applied toward understanding the roles of astrocytes in synapse regulation in the adult brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Kruyer
- Department of Neuroscience, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC 29425, USA
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20
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Walker CD, Sexton HG, Hyde J, Greene B, Risher ML. Diverging Effects of Adolescent Ethanol Exposure on Tripartite Synaptic Development across Prefrontal Cortex Subregions. Cells 2022; 11:3111. [PMID: 36231073 PMCID: PMC9561972 DOI: 10.3390/cells11193111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2022] [Revised: 09/27/2022] [Accepted: 09/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Adolescence is a developmental period that encompasses, but is not limited to, puberty and continues into early adulthood. During this period, maturation and refinement are observed across brain regions such as the prefrontal cortex (PFC), which is critical for cognitive function. Adolescence is also a time when excessive alcohol consumption in the form of binge drinking peaks, increasing the risk of long-term cognitive deficits and the risk of developing an alcohol use disorder later in life. Animal models have revealed that adolescent ethanol (EtOH) exposure results in protracted disruption of neuronal function and performance on PFC-dependent tasks that require higher-order decision-making. However, the role of astrocytes in EtOH-induced disruption of prefrontal cortex-dependent function has yet to be elucidated. Astrocytes have complex morphologies with an extensive network of peripheral astrocyte processes (PAPs) that ensheathe pre- and postsynaptic terminals to form the 'tripartite synapse.' At the tripartite synapse, astrocytes play several critical roles, including synaptic maintenance, dendritic spine maturation, and neurotransmitter clearance through proximity-dependent interactions. Here, we investigate the effects of adolescent binge EtOH exposure on astrocyte morphology, PAP-synaptic proximity, synaptic stabilization proteins, and dendritic spine morphology in subregions of the PFC that are important in the emergence of higher cognitive function. We found that adolescent binge EtOH exposure resulted in subregion specific changes in astrocyte morphology and astrocyte-neuronal interactions. While this did not correspond to a loss of astrocytes, synapses, or dendritic spines, there was a corresponding region-specific and EtOH-dependent shift in dendritic spine phenotype. Lastly, we found that changes in astrocyte-neuronal interactions were not a consequence of changes in the expression of key synaptic structural proteins neurexin, neuroligin 1, or neuroligin 3. These data demonstrate that adolescent EtOH exposure results in enduring effects on neuron-glia interactions that persist into adulthood in a subregion-specific PFC manner, suggesting selective vulnerability. Further work is necessary to understand the functional and behavioral implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher Douglas Walker
- Department of Biomedical Research, Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine, Marshall University, Huntington, WV 25701, USA
- Neurobiology Research Laboratory, Hershel ‘Woody’ Williams Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Huntington, WV 25704, USA
| | - Hannah Gray Sexton
- Department of Biomedical Research, Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine, Marshall University, Huntington, WV 25701, USA
- Neurobiology Research Laboratory, Hershel ‘Woody’ Williams Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Huntington, WV 25704, USA
| | - Jentre Hyde
- Department of Biomedical Research, Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine, Marshall University, Huntington, WV 25701, USA
| | - Brittani Greene
- Department of Biomedical Research, Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine, Marshall University, Huntington, WV 25701, USA
| | - Mary-Louise Risher
- Department of Biomedical Research, Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine, Marshall University, Huntington, WV 25701, USA
- Neurobiology Research Laboratory, Hershel ‘Woody’ Williams Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Huntington, WV 25704, USA
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21
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Gorina YV, Salmina AB, Erofeev AI, Gerasimov EI, Bolshakova AV, Balaban PM, Bezprozvanny IB, Vlasova OL. Astrocyte Activation Markers. BIOCHEMISTRY. BIOKHIMIIA 2022; 87:851-870. [PMID: 36180985 DOI: 10.1134/s0006297922090012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2022] [Revised: 06/27/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Astrocytes are the most common type of glial cells that provide homeostasis and protection of the central nervous system. Important specific characteristic of astrocytes is manifestation of morphological heterogeneity, which is directly dependent on localization in a particular area of the brain. Astrocytes can integrate into neural networks and keep neurons active in various areas of the brain. Moreover, astrocytes express a variety of receptors, channels, and membrane transporters, which underlie their peculiar metabolic activity, and, hence, determine plasticity of the central nervous system during development and aging. Such complex structural and functional organization of astrocytes requires the use of modern methods for their identification and analysis. Considering the important fact that determining the most appropriate marker for polymorphic and multiple subgroups of astrocytes is of decisive importance for studying their multifunctionality, this review presents markers, modern imaging techniques, and identification of astrocytes, which comprise a valuable resource for studying structural and functional properties of astrocytes, as well as facilitate better understanding of the extent to which astrocytes contribute to neuronal activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yana V Gorina
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurodegeneration, Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University, St. Petersburg, 194091, Russia.
- Research Institute of Molecular Medicine and Pathobiochemistry, Voino-Yasenetsky Krasnoyarsk State Medical University, Krasnoyarsk, 660022, Russia
| | - Alla B Salmina
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurodegeneration, Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University, St. Petersburg, 194091, Russia
- Research Institute of Molecular Medicine and Pathobiochemistry, Voino-Yasenetsky Krasnoyarsk State Medical University, Krasnoyarsk, 660022, Russia
- Laboratory of Neurobiology and Tissue Engineering, Brain Institute, Research Center of Neurology, Moscow, 105064, Russia
| | - Alexander I Erofeev
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurodegeneration, Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University, St. Petersburg, 194091, Russia
| | - Evgeniy I Gerasimov
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurodegeneration, Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University, St. Petersburg, 194091, Russia
| | - Anastasia V Bolshakova
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurodegeneration, Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University, St. Petersburg, 194091, Russia
| | - Pavel M Balaban
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurodegeneration, Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University, St. Petersburg, 194091, Russia
- Laboratory of Cellular Neurobiology of Learning, Institute of Higher Nervous Activity, Moscow, 117485, Russia
| | - Ilya B Bezprozvanny
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurodegeneration, Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University, St. Petersburg, 194091, Russia
- Department of Physiology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Olga L Vlasova
- Laboratory of Molecular Neurodegeneration, Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University, St. Petersburg, 194091, Russia
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22
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de Siqueira Mendes FDCC, de Almeida MNF, Falsoni M, Andrade MLF, Felício APG, da Paixão LTVB, Júnior FLDA, Anthony DC, Brites D, Diniz CWP, Sosthenes MCK. The Sedentary Lifestyle and Masticatory Dysfunction: Time to Review the Contribution to Age-Associated Cognitive Decline and Astrocyte Morphotypes in the Dentate Gyrus. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23116342. [PMID: 35683023 PMCID: PMC9180988 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23116342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Revised: 05/15/2022] [Accepted: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
As aging and cognitive decline progresses, the impact of a sedentary lifestyle on the appearance of environment-dependent cellular morphologies in the brain becomes more apparent. Sedentary living is also associated with poor oral health, which is known to correlate with the rate of cognitive decline. Here, we will review the evidence for the interplay between mastication and environmental enrichment and assess the impact of each on the structure of the brain. In previous studies, we explored the relationship between behavior and the morphological features of dentate gyrus glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP)-positive astrocytes during aging in contrasting environments and in the context of induced masticatory dysfunction. Hierarchical cluster and discriminant analysis of GFAP-positive astrocytes from the dentate gyrus molecular layer revealed that the proportion of AST1 (astrocyte arbors with greater complexity phenotype) and AST2 (lower complexity) are differentially affected by environment, aging and masticatory dysfunction, but the relationship is not straightforward. Here we re-evaluated our previous reconstructions by comparing dorsal and ventral astrocyte morphologies in the dentate gyrus, and we found that morphological complexity was the variable that contributed most to cluster formation across the experimental groups. In general, reducing masticatory activity increases astrocyte morphological complexity, and the effect is most marked in the ventral dentate gyrus, whereas the effect of environment was more marked in the dorsal dentate gyrus. All morphotypes retained their basic structural organization in intact tissue, suggesting that they are subtypes with a non-proliferative astrocyte profile. In summary, the increased complexity of astrocytes in situations where neuronal loss and behavioral deficits are present is counterintuitive, but highlights the need to better understand the role of the astrocyte in these conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabíola de Carvalho Chaves de Siqueira Mendes
- Laboratório de Investigações em Neurodegeneração e Infecção, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Hospital Universitário João de Barros Barreto, Universidade Federal do Pará, Belém 66073-005, PA, Brazil; (F.d.C.C.d.S.M.); (M.N.F.d.A.); (M.F.); (M.L.F.A.); (A.P.G.F.); (L.T.V.B.d.P.); (F.L.d.A.J.); (C.W.P.D.)
- Curso de Medicina, Centro Universitário do Estado do Pará, Belém 66613-903, PA, Brazil
| | - Marina Negrão Frota de Almeida
- Laboratório de Investigações em Neurodegeneração e Infecção, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Hospital Universitário João de Barros Barreto, Universidade Federal do Pará, Belém 66073-005, PA, Brazil; (F.d.C.C.d.S.M.); (M.N.F.d.A.); (M.F.); (M.L.F.A.); (A.P.G.F.); (L.T.V.B.d.P.); (F.L.d.A.J.); (C.W.P.D.)
| | - Manoela Falsoni
- Laboratório de Investigações em Neurodegeneração e Infecção, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Hospital Universitário João de Barros Barreto, Universidade Federal do Pará, Belém 66073-005, PA, Brazil; (F.d.C.C.d.S.M.); (M.N.F.d.A.); (M.F.); (M.L.F.A.); (A.P.G.F.); (L.T.V.B.d.P.); (F.L.d.A.J.); (C.W.P.D.)
| | - Marcia Lorena Ferreira Andrade
- Laboratório de Investigações em Neurodegeneração e Infecção, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Hospital Universitário João de Barros Barreto, Universidade Federal do Pará, Belém 66073-005, PA, Brazil; (F.d.C.C.d.S.M.); (M.N.F.d.A.); (M.F.); (M.L.F.A.); (A.P.G.F.); (L.T.V.B.d.P.); (F.L.d.A.J.); (C.W.P.D.)
| | - André Pinheiro Gurgel Felício
- Laboratório de Investigações em Neurodegeneração e Infecção, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Hospital Universitário João de Barros Barreto, Universidade Federal do Pará, Belém 66073-005, PA, Brazil; (F.d.C.C.d.S.M.); (M.N.F.d.A.); (M.F.); (M.L.F.A.); (A.P.G.F.); (L.T.V.B.d.P.); (F.L.d.A.J.); (C.W.P.D.)
| | - Luisa Taynah Vasconcelos Barbosa da Paixão
- Laboratório de Investigações em Neurodegeneração e Infecção, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Hospital Universitário João de Barros Barreto, Universidade Federal do Pará, Belém 66073-005, PA, Brazil; (F.d.C.C.d.S.M.); (M.N.F.d.A.); (M.F.); (M.L.F.A.); (A.P.G.F.); (L.T.V.B.d.P.); (F.L.d.A.J.); (C.W.P.D.)
| | - Fábio Leite do Amaral Júnior
- Laboratório de Investigações em Neurodegeneração e Infecção, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Hospital Universitário João de Barros Barreto, Universidade Federal do Pará, Belém 66073-005, PA, Brazil; (F.d.C.C.d.S.M.); (M.N.F.d.A.); (M.F.); (M.L.F.A.); (A.P.G.F.); (L.T.V.B.d.P.); (F.L.d.A.J.); (C.W.P.D.)
| | - Daniel Clive Anthony
- Laboratory of Experimental Neuropathology, Department of Pharmacology, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3QT, UK;
| | - Dora Brites
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-004 Lisbon, Portugal;
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Medicines, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-004 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Cristovam Wanderley Picanço Diniz
- Laboratório de Investigações em Neurodegeneração e Infecção, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Hospital Universitário João de Barros Barreto, Universidade Federal do Pará, Belém 66073-005, PA, Brazil; (F.d.C.C.d.S.M.); (M.N.F.d.A.); (M.F.); (M.L.F.A.); (A.P.G.F.); (L.T.V.B.d.P.); (F.L.d.A.J.); (C.W.P.D.)
| | - Marcia Consentino Kronka Sosthenes
- Laboratório de Investigações em Neurodegeneração e Infecção, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Hospital Universitário João de Barros Barreto, Universidade Federal do Pará, Belém 66073-005, PA, Brazil; (F.d.C.C.d.S.M.); (M.N.F.d.A.); (M.F.); (M.L.F.A.); (A.P.G.F.); (L.T.V.B.d.P.); (F.L.d.A.J.); (C.W.P.D.)
- Correspondence:
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23
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Structure-guided optimization of light-activated chimeric G-protein-coupled receptors. Structure 2022; 30:1075-1087.e4. [PMID: 35588733 DOI: 10.1016/j.str.2022.04.012] [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: 01/11/2022] [Revised: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 04/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are the largest human receptor family and involved in virtually every physiological process. One hallmark of their function is specific coupling to selected signaling pathways. The ability to tune this coupling would make development of receptors with new capabilities possible. Complexes of GPCRs and G-proteins have recently been resolved at high resolution, but this information was in only few cases harnessed for rational receptor engineering. Here, we demonstrate structure-guided optimization of light-activated OptoXRs. Our hypothesis was that incorporation of GPCR-Gα contacts would lead to improved coupling. We first evaluated structure-based alignments for chimeric receptor fusion. We then show in a light-activated β2AR that including Gα contacts increased signaling 7- to 20-fold compared with other designs. In turn, contact elimination diminished function. Finally, this platform allowed optimization of a further OptoXR and spectral tuning. Our work exemplifies structure-based OptoXR development for targeted cell and network manipulation.
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24
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Oliveira JF, Araque A. Astrocyte regulation of neural circuit activity and network states. Glia 2022; 70:1455-1466. [PMID: 35460131 PMCID: PMC9232995 DOI: 10.1002/glia.24178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2021] [Revised: 02/23/2022] [Accepted: 02/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Astrocytes are known to influence neuronal activity through different mechanisms, including the homeostatic control of extracellular levels of ions and neurotransmitters and the exchange of signaling molecules that regulate synaptic formation, structure, and function. While a great effort done in the past has defined many molecular mechanisms and cellular processes involved in astrocyte-neuron interactions at the cellular level, the consequences of these interactions at the network level in vivo have only relatively recently been identified. This review describes and discusses recent findings on the regulatory effects of astrocytes on the activity of neuronal networks in vivo. Accumulating but still limited, evidence indicates that astrocytes regulate neuronal network rhythmic activity and synchronization as well as brain states. These studies demonstrate a critical contribution of astrocytes to brain activity and are paving the way for a more thorough understanding of the cellular bases of brain function.
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Affiliation(s)
- João Filipe Oliveira
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Health Sciences, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal.,ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga, Portugal.,IPCA-EST-2Ai, Polytechnic Institute of Cávado and Ave, Applied Artificial Intelligence Laboratory, Campus of IPCA, Barcelos, Portugal
| | - Alfonso Araque
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
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25
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Lyon KA, Allen NJ. From Synapses to Circuits, Astrocytes Regulate Behavior. Front Neural Circuits 2022; 15:786293. [PMID: 35069124 PMCID: PMC8772456 DOI: 10.3389/fncir.2021.786293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 11/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Astrocytes are non-neuronal cells that regulate synapses, neuronal circuits, and behavior. Astrocytes ensheath neuronal synapses to form the tripartite synapse where astrocytes influence synapse formation, function, and plasticity. Beyond the synapse, recent research has revealed that astrocyte influences on the nervous system extend to the modulation of neuronal circuitry and behavior. Here we review recent findings on the active role of astrocytes in behavioral modulation with a focus on in vivo studies, primarily in mice. Using tools to acutely manipulate astrocytes, such as optogenetics or chemogenetics, studies reviewed here have demonstrated a causal role for astrocytes in sleep, memory, sensorimotor behaviors, feeding, fear, anxiety, and cognitive processes like attention and behavioral flexibility. Current tools and future directions for astrocyte-specific manipulation, including methods for probing astrocyte heterogeneity, are discussed. Understanding the contribution of astrocytes to neuronal circuit activity and organismal behavior will be critical toward understanding how nervous system function gives rise to behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krissy A Lyon
- Molecular Neurobiology Laboratory, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Nicola J Allen
- Molecular Neurobiology Laboratory, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, CA, United States
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26
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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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27
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Akther S, Hirase H. Assessment of astrocytes as a mediator of memory and learning in rodents. Glia 2021; 70:1484-1505. [PMID: 34582594 DOI: 10.1002/glia.24099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Revised: 09/15/2021] [Accepted: 09/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
The classical view of astrocytes is that they provide supportive functions for neurons, transporting metabolites and maintaining the homeostasis of the extracellular milieu. This view is gradually changing with the advent of molecular genetics and optical methods allowing interrogation of selected cell types in live experimental animals. An emerging view that astrocytes additionally act as a mediator of synaptic plasticity and contribute to learning processes has gained in vitro and in vivo experimental support. Here we focus on the literature published in the past two decades to review the roles of astrocytes in brain plasticity in rodents, whereby the roles of neurotransmitters and neuromodulators are considered to be comparable to those in humans. We outline established inputs and outputs of astrocytes and discuss how manipulations of astrocytes have impacted the behavior in various learning paradigms. Multiple studies suggest that the contribution of astrocytes has a considerably longer time course than neuronal activation, indicating metabolic roles of astrocytes. We advocate that exploring upstream and downstream mechanisms of astrocytic activation will further provide insight into brain plasticity and memory/learning impairment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonam Akther
- Center for Translational Neuromedicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Hajime Hirase
- Center for Translational Neuromedicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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28
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Sherwood MW, Arizono M, Panatier A, Mikoshiba K, Oliet SHR. Astrocytic IP 3Rs: Beyond IP 3R2. Front Cell Neurosci 2021; 15:695817. [PMID: 34393726 PMCID: PMC8363081 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2021.695817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2021] [Accepted: 06/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Astrocytes are sensitive to ongoing neuronal/network activities and, accordingly, regulate neuronal functions (synaptic transmission, synaptic plasticity, behavior, etc.) by the context-dependent release of several gliotransmitters (e.g., glutamate, glycine, D-serine, ATP). To sense diverse input, astrocytes express a plethora of G-protein coupled receptors, which couple, via Gi/o and Gq, to the intracellular Ca2+ release channel IP3-receptor (IP3R). Indeed, manipulating astrocytic IP3R-Ca2+ signaling is highly consequential at the network and behavioral level: Depleting IP3R subtype 2 (IP3R2) results in reduced GPCR-Ca2+ signaling and impaired synaptic plasticity; enhancing IP3R-Ca2+ signaling affects cognitive functions such as learning and memory, sleep, and mood. However, as a result of discrepancies in the literature, the role of GPCR-IP3R-Ca2+ signaling, especially under physiological conditions, remains inconclusive. One primary reason for this could be that IP3R2 has been used to represent all astrocytic IP3Rs, including IP3R1 and IP3R3. Indeed, IP3R1 and IP3R3 are unique Ca2+ channels in their own right; they have unique biophysical properties, often display distinct distribution, and are differentially regulated. As a result, they mediate different physiological roles to IP3R2. Thus, these additional channels promise to enrich the diversity of spatiotemporal Ca2+ dynamics and provide unique opportunities for integrating neuronal input and modulating astrocyte–neuron communication. The current review weighs evidence supporting the existence of multiple astrocytic-IP3R isoforms, summarizes distinct sub-type specific properties that shape spatiotemporal Ca2+ dynamics. We also discuss existing experimental tools and future refinements to better recapitulate the endogenous activities of each IP3R isoform.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark W Sherwood
- University of Bordeaux, INSERM, Neurocentre Magendie, U1215, Bordeaux, France
| | - Misa Arizono
- University of Bordeaux, CNRS, Interdisciplinary Institute for Neuroscience, IINS, UMR 5297, Bordeaux, France
| | - Aude Panatier
- University of Bordeaux, INSERM, Neurocentre Magendie, U1215, Bordeaux, France
| | - Katsuhiko Mikoshiba
- ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China.,Faculty of Science, Toho University, Funabashi, Japan.,RIKEN CLST, Kobe, Japan
| | - Stéphane H R Oliet
- University of Bordeaux, INSERM, Neurocentre Magendie, U1215, Bordeaux, France
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29
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Nagai J, Bellafard A, Qu Z, Yu X, Ollivier M, Gangwani MR, Diaz-Castro B, Coppola G, Schumacher SM, Golshani P, Gradinaru V, Khakh BS. Specific and behaviorally consequential astrocyte G q GPCR signaling attenuation in vivo with iβARK. Neuron 2021; 109:2256-2274.e9. [PMID: 34139149 PMCID: PMC8418870 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2021.05.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2020] [Revised: 04/14/2021] [Accepted: 05/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Astrocytes respond to neurotransmitters and neuromodulators using G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) to mediate physiological responses. Despite their importance, there has been no method to genetically, specifically, and effectively attenuate astrocyte Gq GPCR pathways to explore consequences of this prevalent signaling mechanism in vivo. We report a 122-residue inhibitory peptide from β-adrenergic receptor kinase 1 (iβARK; and inactive D110A control) to attenuate astrocyte Gq GPCR signaling. iβARK significantly attenuated Gq GPCR Ca2+ signaling in brain slices and, in vivo, altered behavioral responses, spared other GPCR responses, and did not alter astrocyte spontaneous Ca2+ signals, morphology, electrophysiological properties, or gene expression in the striatum. Furthermore, brain-wide attenuation of astrocyte Gq GPCR signaling with iβARK using PHP.eB adeno-associated viruses (AAVs), when combined with c-Fos mapping, suggested nuclei-specific contributions to behavioral adaptation and spatial memory. iβARK extends the toolkit needed to explore functions of astrocyte Gq GPCR signaling within neural circuits in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Nagai
- Department of Physiology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095-1751, USA; RIKEN Center for Brain Science, 2-1 Hirosawa Wako City, Saitama 351-0198, Japan
| | - Arash Bellafard
- Department of Neurology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095-1751, USA
| | - Zhe Qu
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA
| | - Xinzhu Yu
- Department of Physiology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095-1751, USA; Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 514 Burrill Hall, 407 S. Goodwin Ave, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | - Matthias Ollivier
- Department of Physiology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095-1751, USA
| | - Mohitkumar R Gangwani
- Department of Physiology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095-1751, USA
| | - Blanca Diaz-Castro
- Department of Physiology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095-1751, USA
| | - Giovanni Coppola
- Department of Neurology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095-1751, USA; Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095-1751, USA; Center for Neurobehavioral Genetics, Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095-1751, USA
| | - Sarah M Schumacher
- Department of Cardiovascular & Metabolic Sciences, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, 9500 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
| | - Peyman Golshani
- Department of Neurology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095-1751, USA; Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095-1751, USA; Center for Neurobehavioral Genetics, Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095-1751, USA; Integrative Center for Learning and Memory, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095-1751, USA; West LA Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 90073, USA; Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Viviana Gradinaru
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA
| | - Baljit S Khakh
- Department of Physiology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095-1751, USA; Department of Neurobiology, University of California, David Geffen School of Medicine, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095-1751, USA.
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