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Gonzalez-Ramos A, Puigsasllosas-Pastor C, Arcas-Marquez A, Tornero D. Updated Toolbox for Assessing Neuronal Network Reconstruction after Cell Therapy. Bioengineering (Basel) 2024; 11:487. [PMID: 38790353 PMCID: PMC11118929 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering11050487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2024] [Revised: 05/02/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Cell therapy has proven to be a promising treatment for a range of neurological disorders, including Parkinson Disease, drug-resistant epilepsy, and stroke, by restoring function after brain damage. Nevertheless, evaluating the true effectiveness of these therapeutic interventions requires a deep understanding of the functional integration of grafted cells into existing neural networks. This review explores a powerful arsenal of molecular techniques revolutionizing our ability to unveil functional integration of grafted cells within the host brain. From precise manipulation of neuronal activity to pinpoint the functional contribution of transplanted cells by using opto- and chemo-genetics, to real-time monitoring of neuronal dynamics shedding light on functional connectivity within the reconstructed circuits by using genetically encoded (calcium) indicators in vivo. Finally, structural reconstruction and mapping communication pathways between grafted and host neurons can be achieved by monosynaptic tracing with viral vectors. The cutting-edge toolbox presented here holds immense promise for elucidating the impact of cell therapy on neural circuitry and guiding the development of more effective treatments for neurological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Gonzalez-Ramos
- Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research at Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Claudia Puigsasllosas-Pastor
- Laboratory of Neural Stem Cells and Brain Damage, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Neurosciences, University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
- Institut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ainhoa Arcas-Marquez
- Laboratory of Neural Stem Cells and Brain Damage, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Neurosciences, University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
- Institut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Daniel Tornero
- Laboratory of Neural Stem Cells and Brain Damage, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Neurosciences, University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
- Institut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), 08036 Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), 28029 Madrid, Spain
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Li Y, Yang B, Wang Y, Huang Z, Wang J, Pu X, Wen J, Ao Q, Xiao K, Wu J, Yin G. Postoperatively Noninvasive Optogenetic Stimulation via Upconversion Nanoparticles Enhancing Sciatic Nerve Repair. NANO LETTERS 2024; 24:5403-5412. [PMID: 38669639 DOI: 10.1021/acs.nanolett.3c04619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
The efficacy of electrical stimulation facilitating peripheral nerve regeneration is evidenced extensively, while the associated secondary damage resulting from repeated electrode invasion and indiscriminate stimulation is inevitable. Here, we present an optogenetics strategy that utilizes upconversion nanoparticles (UCNPs) to convert deeply penetrating near-infrared excitation into blue emission, which activates an adeno-associated virus-encoding ChR2 photoresponsive ion channel on cell membranes. The induced Ca2+ flux, similar to the ion flux in the electrical stimulation approach, efficiently regulates viability and proliferation, secretion of nerve growth factor, and neural function of RSC96 cells. Furthermore, deep near-infrared excitation is harnessed to stimulate autologous Schwann cells in situ via a UCNP-composited scaffold, which enhances nerve sprouting and myelination, consequently promoting functional recovery, electrophysiological restoration, and reinnervation of damaged nerves. This developed postoperatively noninvasive optogenetics strategy presents a novel, minimally traumatic, and enduring therapeutic stimulus to effectively promote peripheral nerve repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ya Li
- College of Biomedical Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
- Institute of Regulatory Science for Medical Devices, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
| | - Bing Yang
- College of Biomedical Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
- Precision Medicine Research Center of West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610093, China
| | - Yulin Wang
- College of Biomedical Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
- Institute of Regulatory Science for Medical Devices, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
| | - Zhongbing Huang
- College of Biomedical Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
| | - Juan Wang
- College of Biomedical Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
| | - Ximing Pu
- College of Biomedical Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
| | - Jirui Wen
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery/Deep Underground Space Medical Center West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 37 Guoxuexiang, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Qiang Ao
- Institute of Regulatory Science for Medical Devices, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
| | - Kai Xiao
- Precision Medicine Research Center of West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610093, China
| | - Jiang Wu
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery/Deep Underground Space Medical Center West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 37 Guoxuexiang, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Guangfu Yin
- College of Biomedical Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
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Mitroshina E, Kalinina E, Vedunova M. Optogenetics in Alzheimer's Disease: Focus on Astrocytes. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:1856. [PMID: 37891935 PMCID: PMC10604138 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12101856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2023] [Revised: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common form of dementia, resulting in disability and mortality. The global incidence of AD is consistently surging. Although numerous therapeutic agents with promising potential have been developed, none have successfully treated AD to date. Consequently, the pursuit of novel methodologies to address neurodegenerative processes in AD remains a paramount endeavor. A particularly promising avenue in this search is optogenetics, enabling the manipulation of neuronal activity. In recent years, research attention has pivoted from neurons to glial cells. This review aims to consider the potential of the optogenetic correction of astrocyte metabolism as a promising strategy for correcting AD-related disorders. The initial segment of the review centers on the role of astrocytes in the genesis of neurodegeneration. Astrocytes have been implicated in several pathological processes associated with AD, encompassing the clearance of β-amyloid, neuroinflammation, excitotoxicity, oxidative stress, and lipid metabolism (along with a critical role in apolipoprotein E function). The effect of astrocyte-neuronal interactions will also be scrutinized. Furthermore, the review delves into a number of studies indicating that changes in cellular calcium (Ca2+) signaling are one of the causes of neurodegeneration. The review's latter section presents insights into the application of various optogenetic tools to manipulate astrocytic function as a means to counteract neurodegenerative changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Mitroshina
- Institute of Biology and Biomedicine, Lobachevsky State University of Nizhny Novgorod, 23 Gagarin Avenue, 603022 Nizhny Novgorod, Russia (M.V.)
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Geng Y, Li Z, Zhu J, Du C, Yuan F, Cai X, Ali A, Yang J, Tang C, Cong Z, Ma C. Advances in Optogenetics Applications for Central Nervous System Injuries. J Neurotrauma 2023. [PMID: 36305381 DOI: 10.1089/neu.2022.0290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Injuries to the central nervous system (CNS) often lead to severe neurological dysfunction and even death. However, there are still no effective measures to improve functional recovery following CNS injuries. Optogenetics, an ideal method to modulate neural activity, has shown various advantages in controlling neural circuits, promoting neural remapping, and improving cell survival. In particular, the emerging technique of optogenetics has exhibited promising therapeutic methods for CNS injuries. In this review, we introduce the light-sensitive proteins and light stimulation system that are important components of optogenetic technology in detail and summarize the development trends. In addition, we construct a comprehensive picture of the current application of optogenetics in CNS injuries and highlight recent advances for the treatment and functional recovery of neurological deficits. Finally, we discuss the therapeutic challenges and prospective uses of optogenetics therapy by photostimulation/photoinhibition modalities that would be suitable for clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanming Geng
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Affiliated Jinling Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Zhenxing Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, Jinling Hospital, Nanjing, China.,Department of Neurosurgery, Affiliated Jinling Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Junhao Zhu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Affiliated Jinling Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Chaonan Du
- Department of Neurosurgery, Affiliated Jinling Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Feng Yuan
- Department of Neurosurgery, Affiliated Jinling Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiangming Cai
- School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Alleyar Ali
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Affiliated Jinling Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jin Yang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Jinling Hospital, Nanjing, China
| | - Chao Tang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Jinling Hospital, Nanjing, China
| | - Zixiang Cong
- Department of Neurosurgery, Jinling Hospital, Nanjing, China
| | - Chiyuan Ma
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Affiliated Jinling Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.,Department of Neurosurgery, Jinling Hospital, Nanjing, China.,Department of Neurosurgery, Affiliated Jinling Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China.,School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, China.,Department of Neurosurgery, Jinling Hospital, the First School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Nanjing, China
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Monreal-Trigo J, Terres-Haro JM, Martinez-Rojas B, Sanchez-Martin MDM, Giraldo E, Moreno Manzano V, Alcaniz Fillol M. Optogenetic Stimulation Array for Confocal Microscopy Fast Transient Monitoring. IEEE TRANSACTIONS ON BIOMEDICAL CIRCUITS AND SYSTEMS 2022; PP:1397-1405. [PMID: 37015589 DOI: 10.1109/tbcas.2022.3226558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
Optogenetics is an emerging discipline with multiple applications in neuroscience, allowing to study neuronal pathways or serving for therapeutic applications such as in the treatment of anxiety disorder, autism spectrum disorders (ASDs), or Parkinson's disease. More recently optogenetics is opening its way also to stem cell-based therapeutic applications for neuronal regeneration after stroke or spinal cord injury. The results of optogenetic stimulation are usually evaluated by immunofluorescence or flow cytometry, and the observation of transient responses after stimulation, as in cardiac electrophysiology studies, by optical microscopy. However, certain phenomena, such as the ultra-fast calcium waves acquisition upon simultaneous optogenetics, are beyond the scope of current instrumentation, since they require higher image resolution in real-time, employing for instance time-lapse confocal microscopy. Therefore, in this work, an optogenetic stimulation matrix controllable from a graphical user interface has been developed for its use with a standard 24-well plate for an inverted confocal microscope use and validated by using a photoactivable adenyl cyclase (bPAC) overexpressed in rat fetal cortical neurons and the consequent calcium waves propagation upon 100 ms pulsed blue light stimulation.
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Cuenca-Ortolá I, Martínez-Rojas B, Moreno-Manzano V, García Castelló M, Monleón Pradas M, Martínez-Ramos C, Más Estellés J. A Strategy for Magnetic and Electric Stimulation to Enhance Proliferation and Differentiation of NPCs Seeded over PLA Electrospun Membranes. Biomedicines 2022; 10:2736. [PMID: 36359255 PMCID: PMC9687775 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10112736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Revised: 10/07/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 09/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Neural progenitor cells (NPCs) have been shown to serve as an efficient therapeutic strategy in different cell therapy approaches, including spinal cord injury treatment. Despite the reported beneficial effects of NPC transplantation, the low survival and differentiation rates constrain important limitations. Herein, a new methodology has been developed to overcome both limitations by applying a combination of wireless electrical and magnetic stimulation to NPCs seeded on aligned poly(lactic acid) nanofibrous scaffolds for in vitro cell conditioning prior transplantation. Two stimulation patterns were tested and compared, continuous (long stimulus applied once a day) and intermittent (short stimulus applied three times a day). The results show that applied continuous stimulation promotes NPC proliferation and preferential differentiation into oligodendrocytic and neuronal lineages. A neural-like phenotypic induction was observed when compared to unstimulated NPCs. In contrast, intermittent stimulation patterns did not affect NPC proliferation and differentiation to oligodendrocytes or astrocytes morphology with a detrimental effect on neuronal differentiation. This study provides a new approach of using a combination of electric and magnetic stimulation to induce proliferation and further neuronal differentiation, which would improve therapy outcomes in disorders such as spinal cord injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene Cuenca-Ortolá
- Center for Biomaterials and Tissue Engineering, Universitat Politècnica de València, Cno. de Vera s/n, 46022 Valencia, Spain
| | - Beatriz Martínez-Rojas
- Neuronal and Tissue Regeneration Laboratory, Centro de Investigación Príncipe Felipe, 46012 Valencia, Spain
| | - Victoria Moreno-Manzano
- Neuronal and Tissue Regeneration Laboratory, Centro de Investigación Príncipe Felipe, 46012 Valencia, Spain
| | - Marcos García Castelló
- Center for Biomaterials and Tissue Engineering, Universitat Politècnica de València, Cno. de Vera s/n, 46022 Valencia, Spain
| | - Manuel Monleón Pradas
- Center for Biomaterials and Tissue Engineering, Universitat Politècnica de València, Cno. de Vera s/n, 46022 Valencia, Spain
- Biomedical Research Networking Center in Bioengineering Biomaterials and Nanomedicine, CIBER-BBN, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Cristina Martínez-Ramos
- Center for Biomaterials and Tissue Engineering, Universitat Politècnica de València, Cno. de Vera s/n, 46022 Valencia, Spain
- Unitat Predepartamental de Medicina, Universitat Jaume I, Avda/Sos Baynat, s/n, 12071 Castellón de la Plana, Spain
| | - Jorge Más Estellés
- Center for Biomaterials and Tissue Engineering, Universitat Politècnica de València, Cno. de Vera s/n, 46022 Valencia, Spain
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Elder N, Fattahi F, McDevitt TC, Zholudeva LV. Diseased, differentiated and difficult: Strategies for improved engineering of in vitro neurological systems. Front Cell Neurosci 2022; 16:962103. [PMID: 36238834 PMCID: PMC9550918 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2022.962103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
The rapidly growing field of cellular engineering is enabling scientists to more effectively create in vitro models of disease and develop specific cell types that can be used to repair damaged tissue. In particular, the engineering of neurons and other components of the nervous system is at the forefront of this field. The methods used to engineer neural cells can be largely divided into systems that undergo directed differentiation through exogenous stimulation (i.e., via small molecules, arguably following developmental pathways) and those that undergo induced differentiation via protein overexpression (i.e., genetically induced and activated; arguably bypassing developmental pathways). Here, we highlight the differences between directed differentiation and induced differentiation strategies, how they can complement one another to generate specific cell phenotypes, and impacts of each strategy on downstream applications. Continued research in this nascent field will lead to the development of improved models of neurological circuits and novel treatments for those living with neurological injury and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas Elder
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
- Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
- Gladstone Institutes, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Faranak Fattahi
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
- Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Todd C. McDevitt
- Gladstone Institutes, San Francisco, CA, United States
- Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
- Sana Biotechnology, Inc., South San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Lyandysha V. Zholudeva
- Gladstone Institutes, San Francisco, CA, United States
- *Correspondence: Lyandysha V. Zholudeva,
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Optogenetics for Understanding and Treating Brain Injury: Advances in the Field and Future Prospects. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23031800. [PMID: 35163726 PMCID: PMC8836693 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23031800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2021] [Revised: 01/21/2022] [Accepted: 02/03/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Optogenetics is emerging as an ideal method for controlling cellular activity. It overcomes some notable shortcomings of conventional methods in the elucidation of neural circuits, promotion of neuroregeneration, prevention of cell death and treatment of neurological disorders, although it is not without its own limitations. In this review, we narratively review the latest research on the improvement and existing challenges of optogenetics, with a particular focus on the field of brain injury, aiming at advancing optogenetics in the study of brain injury and collating the issues that remain. Finally, we review the most current examples of research, applying photostimulation in clinical treatment, and we explore the future prospects of these technologies.
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Novel Approaches Used to Examine and Control Neurogenesis in Parkinson's Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22179608. [PMID: 34502516 PMCID: PMC8431772 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22179608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2021] [Revised: 08/31/2021] [Accepted: 09/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurogenesis is a key mechanism of brain development and plasticity, which is impaired in chronic neurodegeneration, including Parkinson’s disease. The accumulation of aberrant α-synuclein is one of the features of PD. Being secreted, this protein produces a prominent neurotoxic effect, alters synaptic plasticity, deregulates intercellular communication, and supports the development of neuroinflammation, thereby providing propagation of pathological events leading to the establishment of a PD-specific phenotype. Multidirectional and ambiguous effects of α-synuclein on adult neurogenesis suggest that impaired neurogenesis should be considered as a target for the prevention of cell loss and restoration of neurological functions. Thus, stimulation of endogenous neurogenesis or cell-replacement therapy with stem cell-derived differentiated neurons raises new hopes for the development of effective and safe technologies for treating PD neurodegeneration. Given the rapid development of optogenetics, it is not surprising that this method has already been repeatedly tested in manipulating neurogenesis in vivo and in vitro via targeting stem or progenitor cells. However, niche astrocytes could also serve as promising candidates for controlling neuronal differentiation and improving the functional integration of newly formed neurons within the brain tissue. In this review, we mainly focus on current approaches to assess neurogenesis and prospects in the application of optogenetic protocols to restore the neurogenesis in Parkinson’s disease.
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