Natural fluctuation and gonadal hormone regulation of astrocyte immunoreactivity in dentate gyrus

Astrocyte-mediated mechanisms contribute to traumatic brain injury pathology

Astrocytes respond to traumatic brain injury (TBI) with changes to their molecular make-up and cell biology, which results in changes in astrocyte function. These changes can be adaptive, initiating repair processes in the brain, or detrimental, causing secondary damage including neuronal death or abnormal neuronal activity. The response of astrocytes to TBI is often-but not always-accompanied by the upregulation of intermediate filaments, including glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) and vimentin. Because GFAP is often upregulated in the context of nervous system disturbance, reactive astrogliosis is sometimes treated as an "all-or-none" process. However, the extent of astrocytes' cellular, molecular, and physiological adjustments is not equal for each TBI type or even for each astrocyte within the same injured brain. Additionally, new research highlights that different neurological injuries and diseases result in entirely distinctive and sometimes divergent astrocyte changes. Thus, extrapolating findings on astrocyte biology from one pathological context to another is problematic. We summarize the current knowledge about astrocyte responses specific to TBI and point out open questions that the field should tackle to better understand how astrocytes shape TBI outcomes. We address the astrocyte response to focal versus diffuse TBI and heterogeneity of reactive astrocytes within the same brain, the role of intermediate filament upregulation, functional changes to astrocyte function including potassium and glutamate homeostasis, blood-brain barrier maintenance and repair, metabolism, and reactive oxygen species detoxification, sex differences, and factors influencing astrocyte proliferation after TBI. This article is categorized under: Neurological Diseases > Molecular and Cellular Physiology.

Glial Cell Modulation of Dendritic Spine Structure and Synaptic Function

Glia comprise a heterogeneous group of cells involved in the structure and function of the central and peripheral nervous system. Glial cells are found from invertebrates to humans with morphological specializations related to the neural circuits in which they are embedded. Glial cells modulate neuronal functions, brain wiring and myelination, and information processing. For example, astrocytes send processes to the synaptic cleft, actively participate in the metabolism of neurotransmitters, and release gliotransmitters, whose multiple effects depend on the targeting cells. Human astrocytes are larger and more complex than their mice and rats counterparts. Astrocytes and microglia participate in the development and plasticity of neural circuits by modulating dendritic spines. Spines enhance neuronal connectivity, integrate most postsynaptic excitatory potentials, and balance the strength of each input. Not all central synapses are engulfed by astrocytic processes. When that relationship occurs, a different pattern for thin and large spines reflects an activity-dependent remodeling of motile astrocytic processes around presynaptic and postsynaptic elements. Microglia are equally relevant for synaptic processing, and both glial cells modulate the switch of neuroendocrine secretion and behavioral display needed for reproduction. In this chapter, we provide an overview of the structure, function, and plasticity of glial cells and relate them to synaptic maturation and modulation, also involving neurotrophic factors. Together, neurons and glia coordinate synaptic transmission in both normal and abnormal conditions. Neglected over decades, this exciting research field can unravel the complexity of species-specific neural cytoarchitecture as well as the dynamic region-specific functional interactions between diverse neurons and glial subtypes.

Cerebral arteriolar and neurovascular dysfunction after chemically induced menopause in mice

Cognitive decline is linked to decreased cerebral blood flow, particularly in women after menopause. Impaired cerebrovascular function precedes the onset of dementia, possibly because of reduced functional dilation in parenchymal arterioles. These vessels are bottlenecks of the cerebral microcirculation, and dysfunction can limit functional hyperemia in the brain. Large-conductance Ca2+-activated K+ channels (BKCa) are the final effectors of several pathways responsible for functional hyperemia, and their expression is modulated by estrogen. However, it remains unknown whether BKCa function is altered in cerebral parenchymal arterioles after menopause. Using a chemically induced model of menopause, the 4-vinylcyclohexene diepoxide (VCD) model, which depletes follicles while maintaining intact ovaries, we hypothesized that menopause would be associated with reduced functional vasodilatory responses in cerebral parenchymal arterioles of wild-type mice via reduced BKCa function. Using pressure myography of isolated parenchymal arterioles, we observed that menopause (Meno) induced a significant increase in spontaneous myogenic tone. Endothelial function, assessed as nitric oxide production and dilation after cholinergic stimulation or endothelium-dependent hyperpolarization pathways, was unaffected by Meno. BKCa function was significantly impaired in Meno compared with control, without changes in voltage-gated K+ channel activity. Cerebral functional hyperemia, measured by laser-speckle contrast imaging during whisker stimulation, was significantly blunted in Meno mice, without detectable changes in basal perfusion. However, behavioral testing identified no change in cognition. These findings suggest that menopause induces cerebral microvascular and neurovascular deficits.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Cerebral parenchymal arterioles from menopause mice showed increased myogenic tone. We identified an impairment in smooth muscle cell BKCa channel activity, without a reduction in endothelium-dependent dilation or nitric oxide production. Microvascular dysfunction was associated with a reduction in neurovascular responses after somatosensory stimulation. Despite the neurovascular impairment, cognitive abilities were maintained in menopausal mice.

Sex differences in the blood-brain barrier: Implications for mental health

Prevalence of mental disorders, including major depressive disorder (MDD), bipolar disorder (BD) and schizophrenia (SZ) are increasing at alarming rates in our societies. Growing evidence points toward major sex differences in these conditions, and high rates of treatment resistance support the need to consider novel biological mechanisms outside of neuronal function to gain mechanistic insights that could lead to innovative therapies. Blood-brain barrier alterations have been reported in MDD, BD and SZ. Here, we provide an overview of sex-specific immune, endocrine, vascular and transcriptional-mediated changes that could affect neurovascular integrity and possibly contribute to the pathogenesis of mental disorders. We also identify pitfalls in current literature and highlight promising vascular biomarkers. Better understanding of how these adaptations can contribute to mental health status is essential not only in the context of MDD, BD and SZ but also cardiovascular diseases and stroke which are associated with higher prevalence of these conditions.

Allopregnanolone: An overview on its synthesis and effects

Allopregnanolone, a 3α,5α-progesterone metabolite, acts as a potent allosteric modulator of the γ-aminobutyric acid type A receptor. In the present review, the synthesis of this neuroactive steroid occurring in the nervous system is discussed with respect to physiological and pathological conditions. In addition, its physiological and neuroprotective effects are also reported. Interestingly, the levels of this neuroactive steroid, as well as its effects, are sex-dimorphic, suggesting a possible gender medicine based on this neuroactive steroid for neurological disorders. However, allopregnanolone presents low bioavailability and extensive hepatic metabolism, limiting its use as a drug. Therefore, synthetic analogues or a different therapeutic strategy able to increase allopregnanolone levels have been proposed to overcome any pharmacokinetic issues.

Sex Differences in the Epilepsies and Associated Comorbidities: Implications for Use and Development of Pharmacotherapies

The epilepsies are common neurologic disorders characterized by spontaneous recurrent seizures. Boys, girls, men, and women of all ages are affected by epilepsy and, in many cases, by associated comorbidities as well. The primary courses of treatment are pharmacological, dietary, and/or surgical, depending on several factors, including the areas of the brain affected and the severity of the epilepsy. There is a growing appreciation that sex differences in underlying brain function and in the neurobiology of epilepsy are important factors that should be accounted for in the design and development of new therapies. In this review, we discuss the current knowledge on sex differences in epilepsy and associated comorbidities, with emphasis on those aspects most informative for the development of new pharmacotherapies. Particular focus is placed on sex differences in the prevalence and presentation of various focal and generalized epilepsies; psychiatric, cognitive, and physiologic comorbidities; catamenial epilepsy in women; sex differences in brain development; the neural actions of sex and stress hormones and their metabolites; and cellular mechanisms, including brain-derived neurotrophic factor signaling and neuronal-glial interactions. Further attention placed on potential sex differences in epilepsies, comorbidities, and drug effects will enhance therapeutic options and efficacy for all patients with epilepsy. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: Epilepsy is a common neurological disorder that often presents together with various comorbidities. The features of epilepsy and seizure activity as well as comorbid afflictions can vary between men and women. In this review, we discuss sex differences in types of epilepsies, associated comorbidities, pathophysiological mechanisms, and antiepileptic drug efficacy in both clinical patient populations and preclinical animal models.

Sex differences in steroid levels and steroidogenesis in the nervous system: Physiopathological role

The nervous system, in addition to be a target for steroid hormones, is the source of a variety of neuroactive steroids, which are synthesized and metabolized by neurons and glial cells. Recent evidence indicates that the expression of neurosteroidogenic proteins and enzymes and the levels of neuroactive steroids are different in the nervous system of males and females. We here summarized the state of the art of neuroactive steroids, particularly taking in consideration sex differences occurring in the synthesis and levels of these molecules. In addition, we discuss the consequences of sex differences in neurosteroidogenesis for the function of the nervous system under healthy and pathological conditions and the implications of neuroactive steroids and neurosteroidogenesis for the development of sex-specific therapeutic interventions.

Two Distinct Hippocampal Astrocyte Morphotypes Reveal Subfield-Different Fate during Neurodegeneration Induced by Trimethyltin Intoxication

Astrocytes comprise a heterogenic group of glial cells, which perform homeostatic functions in the central nervous system. These cells react to all kind of insults by changing the morphology and function that result in a transition from the quiescent to a reactive phenotype. Trimethyltin (TMT) intoxication, which reproduces pathological events in the hippocampus similar to those associated with seizures and cognitive decline, has been proven as a useful model for studying responses of the glial cells to neurodegeneration. In the present study, we have explored morphological varieties of astrocytes in the hippocampal subregions of ovariectomized female rats exposed to TMT. We have demonstrated an early loss of neurons in CA1 and DG subfields. Distinct morphotypes of protoplasmic astrocytes observed in CA1/CA3 and the hilus of control animals developed different responses to TMT intoxication, as assessed by GFAP-immunohistochemistry. In CA1 subregion, GFAP⁺ astrocytes preserved their domain organization and responded with typical hypertrophy, while the hilar GFAP⁺ astrocytes developed atrophy-like phenotype and increased expression of vimentin and nestin 7 days after the exposure. Both reactive and atrophied-like astrocytes expressed Kir4.1 in CA1/CA3 and the hilus of DG, respectively, indicating that these cells did not change their potential for normal activity at this time point of pathology. Together, the results demonstrate the persistence of two protoplasmic morphotypes of astrocytes, with distinct appearance, function, and fate after TMT-induced neurodegeneration, suggesting their pleiotropic roles in the hippocampal response to neurodegeneration.

Sex Differences and Similarities in Hippocampal Cellular Proliferation and the Number of Immature Neurons during Adolescence in Rats

Adolescence is associated with significant reductions in hippocampal cellular proliferation and neurogenesis, the physiological and behavioral implications of which are unclear. Though sex differences exist in these proliferative processes in adulthood, relatively little is known about the role sex plays in these adolescent-related changes. To address this gap, we examined cross-sectional area of the dentate gyrus and cellular proliferation, as measured by Ki-67 immunohistochemistry, in pre- (30 days), mid- (45 days), and post-adolescent (70 days) male and female rats. We also investigated the number of immature neurons using doublecortin (DCX) immunohistochemistry in pre- and post-adolescent males and females. Despite increases in the size of the dentate gyrus during adolescence, we found significant adolescent-related decreases in hippocampal proliferation in both males and females, with a more dramatic decrease in males, indicating both age- and sex-dependent changes in the dentate gyrus. We also found an adolescent-related decline in the number of immature neurons in the dentate gyrus of male rats and a female-biased sex difference in the number of immature neurons in adults. Given these significant changes in the dentate gyrus, these data suggest that this period in development might be particularly sensitive to internal and external factors known to modulate neurogenesis, with potential sex-specific neurobehavioral ramifications.

Humanin, a Mitochondrial-Derived Peptide Released by Astrocytes, Prevents Synapse Loss in Hippocampal Neurons

Astroglial cells are crucial for central nervous system (CNS) homeostasis. They undergo complex morpho-functional changes during aging and in response to hormonal milieu. Ovarian hormones positively affect different astroglia parameters, including regulation of cell morphology and release of neurotrophic and neuroprotective factors. Thus, ovarian hormone loss during menopause has profound impact in astroglial pathophysilogy and has been widely associated to the process of brain aging. Humanin (HN) is a secreted mitochondrial-encoded peptide with neuroprotective effects. It is localized in several tissues with high metabolic rate and its expression decreases with age. In the brain, humanin has been found in glial cells in physiological conditions. We previously reported that surgical menopause induces hippocampal mitochondrial dysfunction that mimics an aging phenotype. However, the effect of ovarian hormone deprivation on humanin expression in this area has not been studied. Also, whether astrocytes express and release humanin and the regulation of such processes by ovarian hormones remain elusive. Although humanin has also proven to be beneficial in ameliorating cognitive impairment induced by different insults, its putative actions on structural synaptic plasticity have not been fully addressed. In a model of surgical menopause in rats, we studied hippocampal humanin expression and localization by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and double immunohistochemistry, respectively. Humanin production and release and ovarian hormone regulation of such processes were studied in cultured astrocytes by flow cytometry and ELISA, respectively. Humanin effects on glutamate-induced structural synaptic alterations were determined in primary cultures of hippocampal neurons by immunocytochemistry. Humanin expression was lower in the hippocampus of ovariectomized rats and its immunoreactivity colocalized with astroglial markers. Chronic ovariectomy also promoted the presence of less complex astrocytes in this area. Ovarian hormones increased humanin intracellular content and release by cultured astrocytes. Humanin prevented glutamate-induced dendritic atrophy and reduction in puncta number and total puncta area for pre-synaptic marker synaptophysin in cultured hippocampal neurons. In conclusion, astroglial functional and morphological alterations induced by chronic ovariectomy resemble an aging phenotype and could affect astroglial support to neuronal function by altering synaptic connectivity and functionality. Reduced astroglial-derived humanin may represent an underlying mechanism for synaptic dysfunction and cognitive decline after menopause.

Sex steroid hormones as neuroprotective elements in ischemia models

Among sex steroid hormones, progesterone and estradiol have a wide diversity of physiological activities that target the nervous system. Not only are they carried by the blood stream, but also they are locally synthesized in the brain and for this reason, estradiol and progesterone are considered 'neurosteroids'. The physiological actions of both hormones range from brain development and neurotransmission to aging, illustrating the importance of a deep understanding of their mechanisms of action. In this review, we summarize key roles that estradiol and progesterone play in the brain. As numerous reports have confirmed a substantial neuroprotective role for estradiol in models of neurodegenerative disease, we focus this review on traumatic brain injury and stroke models. We describe updated data from receptor and signaling events triggered by both hormones, with an emphasis on the mechanisms that have been reported as 'rapid' or 'cytoplasmic actions'. Data showing the therapeutic effects of the hormones, used alone or in combination, are also summarized, with a focus on rodent models of middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO). Finally, we draw attention to evidence that neuroprotection by both hormones might be due to a combination of 'cytoplasmic' and 'nuclear' signaling.

Estrogen Interactions With Lipid Rafts Related to Neuroprotection. Impact of Brain Ageing and Menopause

Estrogens (E2) exert a plethora of neuroprotective actions against aged-associated brain diseases, including Alzheimer's disease (AD). Part of these actions takes place through binding to estrogen receptors (ER) embedded in signalosomes, where numerous signaling proteins are clustered. Signalosomes are preferentially located in lipid rafts which are dynamic membrane microstructures characterized by a peculiar lipid composition enriched in gangliosides, saturated fatty acids, cholesterol, and sphingolipids. Rapid E2 interactions with ER-related signalosomes appear to trigger intracellular signaling ultimately leading to the activation of molecular mechanisms against AD. We have previously observed that the reduction of E2 blood levels occurring during menopause induced disruption of ER-signalosomes at frontal cortical brain areas. These molecular changes may reduce neuronal protection activities, as similar ER signalosome derangements were observed in AD brains. The molecular impairments may be associated with changes in the lipid composition of lipid rafts observed in neurons during menopause and AD. These evidences indicate that the changes in lipid raft structure during aging may be at the basis of alterations in the activity of ER and other neuroprotective proteins integrated in these membrane microstructures. Moreover, E2 is a homeostatic modulator of lipid rafts. Recent work has pointed to this relevant aspect of E2 activity to preserve brain integrity, through mechanisms affecting lipid uptake and local biosynthesis in the brain. Some evidences have demonstrated that estrogens and the docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) exert synergistic effects to stabilize brain lipid matrix. DHA is essential to enhance molecular fluidity at the plasma membrane, promoting functional macromolecular interactions in signaling platforms. In support of this, DHA detriment in neuronal lipid rafts has been associated with the most common age-associated neuropathologies, namely AD and Parkinson disease. Altogether, these findings indicate that E2 may participate in brain preservation through a dual membrane-related mechanism. On the one hand, E2 interacting with ER related signalosomes may protect against neurotoxic insults. On the other hand, E2 may exert lipostatic actions to preserve lipid balance in neuronal membrane microdomains. The different aspects of the emerging multifunctional role of estrogens in membrane-related signalosomes will be discussed in this review.

Age, environment, object recognition and morphological diversity of GFAP-immunolabeled astrocytes

Background

Few studies have explored the glial response to a standard environment and how the response may be associated with age-related cognitive decline in learning and memory. Here we investigated aging and environmental influences on hippocampal-dependent tasks and on the morphology of an unbiased selected population of astrocytes from the molecular layer of dentate gyrus, which is the main target of perforant pathway.

Results

Six and twenty-month-old female, albino Swiss mice were housed, from weaning, in a standard or enriched environment, including running wheels for exercise and tested for object recognition and contextual memories. Young adult and aged subjects, independent of environment, were able to distinguish familiar from novel objects. All experimental groups, except aged mice from standard environment, distinguish stationary from displaced objects. Young adult but not aged mice, independent of environment, were able to distinguish older from recent objects. Only young mice from an enriched environment were able to distinguish novel from familiar contexts. Unbiased selected astrocytes from the molecular layer of the dentate gyrus were reconstructed in three-dimensions and classified using hierarchical cluster analysis of bimodal or multimodal morphological features. We found two morphological phenotypes of astrocytes and we designated type I the astrocytes that exhibited significantly higher values of morphological complexity as compared with type II. Complexity = [Sum of the terminal orders + Number of terminals] × [Total branch length/Number of primary branches]. On average, type I morphological complexity seems to be much more sensitive to age and environmental influences than that of type II. Indeed, aging and environmental impoverishment interact and reduce the morphological complexity of type I astrocytes at a point that they could not be distinguished anymore from type II.

Conclusions

We suggest these two types of astrocytes may have different physiological roles and that the detrimental effects of aging on memory in mice from a standard environment may be associated with a reduction of astrocytes morphological diversity.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12993-016-0111-2) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Interactions between inflammation, sex steroids, and Alzheimer's disease risk factors

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is an age-related neurodegenerative disorder for which there are no effective strategies to prevent or slow its progression. Because AD is multifactorial, recent research has focused on understanding interactions among the numerous risk factors and mechanisms underlying the disease. One mechanism through which several risk factors may be acting is inflammation. AD is characterized by chronic inflammation that is observed before clinical onset of dementia. Several genetic and environmental risk factors for AD increase inflammation, including apolipoprotein E4, obesity, and air pollution. Additionally, sex steroid hormones appear to contribute to AD risk, with age-related losses of estrogens in women and androgens in men associated with increased risk. Importantly, sex steroid hormones have anti-inflammatory actions and can interact with several other AD risk factors. This review examines the individual and interactive roles of inflammation and sex steroid hormones in AD, as well as their relationships with the AD risk factors apolipoprotein E4, obesity, and air pollution.

The other side of progestins: effects in the brain

Progestins are a broad class of progestational agents widely differing in their chemical structures and pharmacological properties. Despite emerging data suggest that progestins, besides their action as endometrial protection, can also have multiple nonreproductive functions, much remains to be discovered regarding the actions exerted by these molecules in the nervous system. Here, we report the role exerted by different progestins, currently used for contraception or in postmenopausal hormone replacement therapies, in regulating cognitive functions as well as social behavior and mood. We provide evidence that the effects and mechanisms underlying their actions are still confusing due to the use of different estrogens and progestins as well as different doses, duration of exposure, route of administration, baseline hormonal status and age of treated women. We also discuss the emerging issue concerning the relevant increase of these substances in the environment, able to deeply affect aquatic wildlife as well as to exert a possible influence in humans, which may be exposed to these compounds via contaminated drinking water and seafood. Finally, we report literature data showing the neurobiological action of progestins and in particular their importance during neurodegenerative events. This is extremely interesting, since some of the progestins currently used in clinical practice exert neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects in the nervous system, opening new promising opportunities for the use of these molecules as therapeutic agents for trauma and neurodegenerative disorders.

Role of astrocytes in the neuroprotective actions of 17β-estradiol and selective estrogen receptor modulators

Neuroprotective actions of 17β-estradiol (estradiol) are in part mediated by direct actions on neurons. Astrocytes, which play an essential role in the maintenance of the homeostasis of neural tissue, express estrogen receptors and are also involved in the neuroprotective actions of estradiol in the brain. Estradiol controls gliosis and regulates neuroinflammation, edema and glutamate transport acting on astrocytes. In addition, the hormone regulates the release of neurotrophic factors and other neuroprotective molecules by astrocytes. In addition, reactive astrocytes are a local source of neuroprotective estradiol for the injured brain. Since estradiol therapy is not free from peripheral risks, alternatives for the hormone have been explored. Some selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs), which are already in use in clinical practice for the treatment of breast cancer, osteoporosis or menopausal symptoms, exert similar actions to estradiol on astrocytes. Therefore, SERMs represent therapeutic alternatives to estradiol for the activation of astroglia-mediated neuroprotective mechanisms.

Sex hormones and expression pattern of cytoskeletal proteins in the rat brain throughout pregnancy

Pregnancy involves diverse changes in brain function that implicate a re-organization in neuronal cytoskeleton. In this physiological state, the brain is in contact with several hormones that it has never been exposed, as well as with very high levels of hormones that the brain has been in touch throughout life. Among the latter hormones are progesterone and estradiol which regulate several brain functions, including learning, memory, neuroprotection, and the display of sexual and maternal behavior. These functions involve changes in the structure and organization of neurons and glial cells that require the participation of cytoskeletal proteins whose expression and activity is regulated by estradiol and progesterone. We have found that the expression pattern of Microtubule Associated Protein 2, Tau, and Glial Fibrillary Acidic Protein changes in a tissue-specific manner in the brain of the rat throughout gestation and the start of lactation, suggesting that these proteins participate in the plastic changes observed in the brain during pregnancy. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled 'Pregnancy and Steroids'.

Astroglial networks and implications for therapeutic neuromodulation of epilepsy

Epilepsy is a common chronic neurologic disorder affecting approximately 1% of the world population. More than one-third of all epilepsy patients have incompletely controlled seizures or debilitating medication side effects in spite of optimal medical management. Medically refractory epilepsy is associated with excess injury and mortality, psychosocial dysfunction, and significant cognitive impairment. Effective treatment options for these patients can be limited. The cellular mechanisms underlying seizure activity are incompletely understood, though we here describe multiple lines of evidence supporting the likely contribution of astroglia to epilepsy, with focus on individual astrocytes and their network functions. Of the emerging therapeutic modalities for epilepsy, one of the most intriguing is the field of neuromodulation. Neuromodulatory treatment, which consists of administering electrical pulses to neural tissue to modulate its activity leading to a beneficial effect, may be an option for these patients. Current modalities consist of vagal nerve stimulation, open and closed-loop stimulation, and transcranial magnetic stimulation. Due to their unique properties, we here present astrocytes as likely important targets for the developing field of neuromodulation in the treatment of epilepsy.

Short- and long-term treatment with estradiol or progesterone modifies the expression of GFAP, MAP2 and Tau in prefrontal cortex and hippocampus

AIMS

We analyzed the effects of the short- and long-term administration of estradiol (E2) or progesterone (P4) after ovariectomy on the expression of MAP2, Tau and GFAP in prefrontal cortex and hippocampus.

MAIN METHODS

Sprague Dawley rats were ovariectomized and immediately treated with E2 or P4 for 2 or 18 weeks. At the end of treatments, hippocampus and prefrontal cortex were excised, proteins were extracted and MAP2, Tau and GFAP were analyzed by Western blot.

KEY FINDINGS

MAP2 and Tau content was not modified by E2 in the prefrontal cortex. On the contrary, P4 decreased MAP2 content after a short-term treatment, while it increased that of MAP2 and TAU in this brain region after a long-term treatment. E2 increased MAP2 content in hippocampus. In this region, short-term administration of P4 increased that of MAP2. GFAP content was diminished after a long-term administration of P4 in hippocampus.

SIGNIFICANCE

Current data emphasize the importance of short- and long-term sex steroid treatment on neuronal and glial cytoskeletal proteins expression.

Hetereogeneity of dose and time effects of estrogen on neuron-specific neuronal protein and phosphorylated cyclic AMP response element-binding protein in the hippocampus of ovariectomized rats

Previous studies have shown changes in the cyclic AMP response element-binding protein (CREB) signaling pathway in CA1 and CA3 regions of the rostral hippocampus with 10 μg estrogen treatment for 14 days. It appears that estrogen's action on CREB phosphorylation in brain structures depends on other estrogen doses and lengths of treatment. We therefore examined the effects of moderate regimens [2.5 μg estradiol benzoate (EB) for 4 or 14 days] on mean numbers of neuron-specific neuronal protein (NeuN)-positive cells and phosphorylated CREB (pCREB)-positive cells and subregion volume defined by NeuN and pCREB immunolabeling and compared those results with results from the high regimen (10 μg EB for 14 days) in CA1, CA2, and CA3 regions and dorsal (DDG) and ventral (VDG) dentate gyrus and hilus of the hippocampus of ovariectomized rats by stereology. For whole hippocampus, all regimens increased mean neuronal (NeuN) numbers and pCREB-positive cell and volume compared with sesame oil (SO) in CA1, CA2, and CA3 regions, DDG and VDG, and hilus. In rostral hippocampus, however, some hippocampal subregions were not responsive to the high regimen, and the moderate regimens appear to be more effective for increasing mean number of NeuN-positive neurons and pCREB-positive cells and subregion volume. Heterogeneity in responsiveness to estrogen was mainly seen within rostral, but not whole, hippocampal subregions. Our results indicate that responsiveness of cells expressing NeuN and pCREB to different EB regimens may vary depending on the specific region of the hippocampus.

Sex and estrous cycle-dependent differences in glial fibrillary acidic protein immunoreactivity in the adult rat hippocampus

Sex differences in the morphology and function of the hippocampus have been reported in several species, but it is unknown whether a sexual dimorphism exists in glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) expression in the rat hippocampus. We analyzed GFAP immunoreactivity in the hippocampus of intact adult male rats as well as in females during diestrus and proestrus phases of the estrous cycle. We found that in CA1, CA3, and dentate gyrus, GFAP immunoreactivity was higher in proestrus females as compared with males and diestrus females. In CA1, a similar GFAP immunoreactivity was found in males and in diestrus females, but in dentate gyrus, males presented the lowest GFAP content. Interestingly, differences in astrocyte morphology were also found. Rounded cells with numerous and short processes were mainly observed in the hippocampus during proestrus whereas cells with stellate shape with few and long processes were present in the hippocampus of males and diestrus females. The marked sex and estrous cycle-dependent differences in GFAP immunoreactivity density and in astrocyte number and morphology found in the rat hippocampus, suggest the involvement of sex steroid hormones in the sexually dimorphic functions of the hippocampus, and in the change in its activity during the estrous cycle.

Sexual dimorphism in neuronal number of the posterodorsal medial amygdala is independent of circulating androgens and regional volume in adult rats

The posterodorsal medial amygdala (MePD) in rodents integrates olfactory and pheromonal information, which, coupled with the appropriate hormonal signals, may facilitate or repress reproductive behavior in adulthood. MePD volume and neuronal soma size are greater in male rats than in females, and these sexual dimorphisms are maintained by adult circulating hormone levels. Castration of adult males causes these measures to shrink to the size seen in females 4 weeks later, whereas testosterone treatment of adult females for 4 weeks enlarges these measures to the size of males. We used stereological methods to count the number of cells in the MePD and found that, in addition to the sex difference in regional volume and soma size, males also have more MePD neurons than do females, yet these numbers are unaffected by the presence or absence of androgen in adults of either sex. Males also have more glial cells than do females, but, in contrast to the effects on neuronal number, the number of glial cells is affected by androgen in the right MePD of both sexes and, therefore, may contribute to regional volume changes in adulthood in that hemisphere. Thus, regional volume, neuronal size, and glial numbers vary in the MePD of adult rats in response to circulating androgens, but neuronal number does not. These results suggest that the sex difference in neuronal number in the rat MePD may be "organized" by androgens prior to adulthood, whereas regional volume, neuronal size, and glial numbers can be altered by androgens in adulthood.

Sex steroids and the dentate gyrus

In the late 1980s, the finding that the dentate gyrus contains more granule cells in the male than in the female of certain mouse strains provided the first indication that the dentate gyrus is a significant target for the effects of sex steroids during development. Gonadal hormones also play a crucial role in shaping the function and morphology of the adult brain. Besides reproduction-related processes, sex steroids participate in higher brain operations such as cognition and mood, in which the hippocampus is a critical mediator. Being part of the hippocampal formation, the dentate gyrus is naturally involved in these mechanisms and as such, this structure is also a critical target for the activational effects of sex steroids. These activational effects are the results of three major types of steroid-mediated actions. Sex steroids modulate the function of dentate neurons under normal conditions. In addition, recent research suggests that hormone-induced cellular plasticity may play a larger role than previously thought, particularly in the dentate gyrus. Specifically, the regulation of dentate gyrus neurogenesis and synaptic remodeling by sex steroids received increasing attention lately. Finally, the dentate gyrus is influenced by gonadal hormones in the context of cellular injury, and the work in this area demonstrates that gonadal hormones have neuroprotective potential. The expression of estrogen, progestin, and androgen receptors in the dentate gyrus suggests that sex steroids, which could be of gonadal origin and/or synthesized locally in the dentate gyrus, may act directly on dentate cells. In addition, gonadal hormones could also influence the dentate gyrus indirectly, by subcortical hormone-sensitive structures such as the cholinergic septohippocampal system. Importantly, these three sex steroid-related themes, functional effects in the normal dentate gyrus, mechanisms involving neurogenesis and synaptic remodeling, as well as neuroprotection, have substantial implications for understanding normal cognitive function, with clinical importance for epilepsy, Alzheimer's disease and mental disorders.

Steroids and glial cell function

Hormonal and locally produced steroids act in the nervous system as neuroendocrine regulators, as trophic factors and as neuromodulators and have a major impact on neural development and function. Glial cells play a prominent role in the local production of steroids and in the mediation of steroid effects on neurons and other glial cells. In this review, we examine the role of glia in the synthesis and metabolism of steroids and the functional implications of glial steroidogenesis. We analyze the mechanisms of steroid signaling on glia, including the role of nuclear receptors and the mechanisms of membrane and cytoplasmic signaling mediated by changes in intracellular calcium levels and activation of signaling kinases. Effects of steroids on functional parameters of glia, such as proliferation, myelin formation, metabolism, cytoskeletal reorganization, and gliosis are also reviewed, as well as the implications of steroid actions on glia for the regulation of synaptic function and connectivity, the regulation of neuroendocrine events, and the response of neural tissue to injury.

Gonadal hormone regulation of glial fibrillary acidic protein immunoreactivity in the medial amygdala subnuclei across the estrous cycle and in castrated and treated female rats

The medial amygdala (MeA) is a sexually dimorphic area that modulates neuroendocrine and behavioral activities and where gonadal hormones play an important role in neuron-glial and synaptic plasticity. Immunohistochemistry was used to identify the astrocytic marker glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) in the different MeA subnuclei--anterodorsal (MeAD), posterodorsal (MePD) and posteroventral (MePV)--of intact female rats in the different phases of the estrous cycle and in ovariectomized females treated with hormonal substitutive therapy. Data semi-quantified by optical densitometry showed that, in the proestrus phase, the GFAP immunoreactivity (GFAP-ir) was higher when compared to the other phases of the estrous cycle (P < 0.02). GFAP-ir was also higher in the MePD than in the MeAD or in the MePV (P < 0. 02). In ovariectomized females, injections of estradiol alone or estradiol plus progesterone increased GFAP-ir in the MePD and in the MePV (P < 0.001), but not in the MeAD (P > 0.3), when compared to control data. These findings suggest that astrocytic GFAP in the MeA subnuclei can be affected either by physiological levels or by hormonal manipulation of the ovarian steroids, which may contribute to the plasticity of local and integrated functional activities of these brain areas in female rats.

Estradiol regulation of astroglia and apolipoprotein E: an important role in neuronal regeneration

The effects of ovarian hormone on neuronal growth and function are well known. However, equally important, but often neglected, are ovarian hormone effects on glia. Our in vivo and in vitro studies show that estradiol modifies both neuronal growth and glial activity and these effects are tightly linked. Estradiol stimulates neurite growth and the release of the glial apolipoprotein E (apoE) in culture studies. Estradiol-stimulated neurite growth in these cultures requires apoE. Estradiol replacement in ovariectomized mice transiently increases the expression of apoE, the low density lipoprotein receptor related protein (LRP) and synaptophysin throughout the brain. Continuous estradiol replacement over two months loses effect on apoE, LRP, and synaptophysin and suppresses reactive gliosis. Estrous cycle variation of glial activation (GFAP) and apoE are not identical. We propose that estradiol (and other ovarian hormones) functions as a zeitgeber to co-ordinate neuronal-glial interactions. Co-ordination assures temporally appropriate excitatory and inhibitory interactions between glia and neurons. With aging and the loss of ovarian cyclicity, some of this co-ordination must be diminished. These observations present significant clinical implications. Approaches to hormone therapy (HT), for diminishing the risk of chronic neurological diseases, need to consider the temporal nature of ovarian hormones in brain repair and plasticity. Moreover, approaches must consider apoE genotype. The neuroprotective effects of HT in numerous chronic age-related diseases may represent effective co-ordination of repair processes rather than direct disease-specific actions. Moreover, the role of glial-derived proteins in neuroprotection should not be ignored.

Neocortical and hippocampal glial fibrillary acidic protein immunoreactivity shows region-specific variation during the mouse estrous cycle

Ovarian hormones modulate both neuronal and glial activation during the estrous cycle. These effects are particularly well characterized in the hypothalamus. Ovarian hormones also affect brain regions not directly related to reproductive function. In this study we used glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) immunocytochemistry to quantify astroglial cells and process density in both the neocortex and hippocampus during the estrous cycle. Our data show that the density of GFAP immunoreactive processes in the hippocampus peaks on proestrus although cell density does not change. In contrast, both GFAP immunoreactive cell and process densities are elevated on diestrus and proestrus in the supragranular layer of the somatosensory cortex and reach a nadir on estrus and metestrus. This activation pattern is not apparent in the motor or cingulate cortex. Neocortical GFAP immunoreactivity appears to follow the distribution of estrogen receptor-alpha-like immunoreactivity. Our data show that ovarian hormones have regionally specific effects on glial activation within the neocortex. Characterizing glial activation by ovarian hormones is important since astroglia are the source of numerous trophic factors and play an important, although often unrecognized, role in neuronal metabolism and function.

Synaptic remodeling induced by gonadal hormones: neuronal plasticity as a mediator of neuroendocrine and behavioral responses to steroids

During recent decades, it has become a generally accepted view that structural neuroplasticity is remarkably involved in the functional adaptation of the CNS. Thus, cellular morphology in the brain is in continuous transition throughout the life span, as a response to environmental stimuli. The effects of the environment on neuroplasticity are mediated by, to some extent, the changing levels of circulating gonadal steroid hormones. Today, it is clear that the function of gonadal steroids in the brain extends beyond simply regulating reproductive and/or neuroendocrine events. In addition, or even more importantly, gonadal steroids participate in the shaping of the developing brain, while their actions during adult life are implicated in higher brain functions such as cognition, mood and memory. A large body of evidence indicates that gonadal steroid-induced functional changes are accompanied by alterations in neuron and synapse numbers, as well as in dendritic and synaptic morphology. These structural modifications are believed to serve as a morphological basis for changes in behavior and cellular activity. Due to their growing functional and clinical significance, the specificity, timeframe, as well as the molecular and cellular mechanisms of hormone-induced neuroplasticity have become the focus of many studies. In this review, we briefly summarize current knowledge and the most significant recent discoveries from our laboratories on estrogen- and dehydroepiandrosterone-induced synaptic remodeling in the hypothalamus and hippocampus, two important brain areas heavily involved in autonomic and cognitive operations, respectively.

Time course of response to estradiol replacement in ovariectomized mice: brain apolipoprotein E and synaptophysin transiently increase and glial fibrillary acidic protein is suppressed

The current study examined the effect of long-term estradiol replacement in ovariectomized mice. Estradiol-17beta (E2) pellets or vehicle pellets were implanted at the time of ovariectomy (OVX) in young adult female mice. Five mice from each group were sacrificed at 5, 14, 28 and 49 days after OVX and pellet replacement. Western blotting of homogenates from somatosensory cortex, hippocampus, olfactory bulb and cerebellum was performed to obtain concentrations of glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), apolipoprotein E (apoE) and synaptophysin (SYN). At 5 days after OVX, GFAP levels were not affected by E2 replacement. In contrast to GFAP, synaptophysin and apoE concentrations were significantly elevated by 15% and 25%, respectively, in the E2-replaced group compared to the vehicle-replaced group at 5 days but by 14 days concentrations were equivalent. Late in the time course of this study, at 49 days, GFAP concentrations were higher in the E2-deprived mice but did not increase in the E2-replaced group. Immunocytochemistry for GFAP confirmed this observation. Of note was that these effects occurred in all four brain regions measured. These observations suggest that estradiol is able to suppress reactive gliosis. In addition, E2 replacement in OVX mice is associated with transiently higher levels of apoE and synaptophysin.

Estradiol modulation of astrocytes and the establishment of sex differences in the brain

The role of steroid hormones as a conduit for reciprocal glial-neuronal communication is an emerging but relatively unexplored concept. Research in our laboratory has discovered that the relationship between astrocytic and neuronal morphology during development is distinct for different brain regions and provides a fundamental basis for region-specific sexual differentiation. The functional significance of estradiol-induced differentiation of astrocytes and the cross-talk of these cells with neurons includes permanent changes in synaptic patterning and control of adult reproductive behaviors. The cellular mechanisms as currently understood for each region are discussed and unanswered questions as well as other areas for future research are reviewed.

Aromatase expression by reactive astroglia is neuroprotective

The enzyme aromatase catalyzes the conversion of testosterone and other C19 steroids to estradiol. Under normal circumstances, the expression of aromatase in the central nervous system of mammals is restricted to neurons. However, the expression of the enzyme is induced in astrocytes in vitro by stressful stimuli. Furthermore, different types of brain injury induce in vivo the expression of aromatase in reactive astrocytes. The expression of aromatase by reactive astrocytes is neuroprotective, because the pharmacological inhibition of the enzyme in the brain exacerbates neuronal death after different forms of mild neurodegenerative stimuli that do not significantly affect neuronal survival under control conditions. These findings indicate that the induction of aromatase in reactive astrocytes, and the consecutive increase in the local production of estradiol in the brain at injured sites, may be an endogenous neural response to reduce the extent of neurodegenerative damage.

Effects of estrogen and raloxifene on neuroglia number and morphology in the hippocampus of aged female mice

Hormone replacement therapy with the gonadal steroid estrogen or synthetic agents such as raloxifene, a selective estrogen receptor modulator, may affect cellular function in brains of postmenopausal women. In vitro studies suggest that 17beta estradiol and raloxifene can alter the microglial and astrocyte expression of immuno-neuronal modulators, such as cytokines, complement factors, chemokines, and other molecules involved in neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration. To directly test whether exogenous 17beta estradiol and raloxifene affect the number of glial cells in brain, C57BL/6NIA female mice aged 20-24 months received bilateral ovariectomy followed by s.c. placement of a 60-day release pellet containing 17beta estradiol (1.7 mg), raloxifene (10 mg), or placebo (cholesterol). After 60 days, numbers of microglia and astrocytes were quantified in dentate gyrus and CA1 regions of the hippocampal formation using immunocytochemistry and design-based stereology. The results show that long-term 17beta estradiol treatment in aged female mice significantly lowered the numbers of astrocytes and microglial cells in dentate gyrus and CA1 regions compared with placebo. After long-term treatment with raloxifene, a similar reduction was observed in numbers of astrocytes and microglial cells in the hippocampal formation. These findings indicate that estrogen and selective estrogen receptor modulators can influence glial-mediated inflammatory pathways and possibly protect against age- and disease-related neuropathology.

Neurotrophic Factors and Estradiol Interact To Control Axogenic Growth in Hypothalamic Neurons

Previous work from our laboratory has shown that in cultures of hypothalamic neurons obtained from male fetuses at embryonic day 16, the axogenic response to estrogen (E2) is contingent on coculture with target glia or target glia-conditioned media (CM). Neither the estrogen receptor blockers tamoxifen nor ICI 182,780 prevented the axogenic effects of the hormone. Estradiol made membrane-impermeable by conjugation to a protein of high molecular weight (E2-BSA) preserved its axogenic capacity, suggesting the possibility of a membrane effect responsible for the action of E2. Western blot analysis of extracts from homogenates of cultured neurons grown with E2 and CM from target glia had more TrkB than cultures with CM alone or E2 alone. To further investigate the interaction between E2 and the neurotrophin receptors, we used a specific antisense oligonucleotide (AS) to prevent the estradiol-induced increase of TrkB. The effect of E2 was suppressed in cultures in which TrkB was down-regulated by the AS, showing decreased axonal elongation when compared with neurons treated with E2 without AS or with sense TrkB. In cultures grown with AS, the axonal length of E2-treated cultures was not different from cultures without E2. Evidence suggesting cross-talk between E2 and neurotrophic factor(s) prompted investigation of signaling along the MAPK cascade. Immuno blotting of E2-treated cultures showed increased levels of phosphorylated ERK1 and ERK2. UO126 but not LY294002 blocked E2-induced axonal elongation, suggesting that the MAPKs are involved in this response.

Gonadal hormones act extrinsic to the hippocampus to influence the density of hippocampal astroglial processes

The important effects of estrogen on the morphology of hippocampal neurons are well established. The mechanisms leading to such changes, nevertheless, have proved confusingly complex, since interactions between glia and neurons, as well as neuronal influences from other brain fields, are involved. This study addresses the possibility that estrogen-sensitive projections from the medial septum/diagonal band of Broca induce astroglial reactions. Estrogen- and cholesterol-filled (controls) cannulae were implanted into the medial septum/diagonal band of Broca of adult ovariectomized rats. Comparative semiquantitative immunohistochemical analysis on the density of the glial fibrillary acidic protein-containing processes and cells were performed on hippocampal slices of locally estrogen-treated and control animals. Rats that received estrogen-filled cannulae showed a lower density of glial processes in the hippocampal CA1 and CA3 subfields than animals of the control group. These effects could not be observed in the dentate gyrus. Cell counts revealed no significant difference in the number of glial fibrillary acidic protein-positive cells in any of the examined areas. Two major conclusions can be drawn from these results. First, the data show that estrogen, in fact, has an indirect influence on hippocampal cells through septo-hippocampal projections. Furthermore, estradiol can have an indirect negative effect on hippocampal astrocytes, causing a reduction in the density of their processes.

Sexual differentiation of the brain: genes, estrogen, and neurotrophic factors

Based on evidence obtained during the past 50 years, the current hypothesis to explain the sexual dimorphism of structure and function in the brain of vertebrates maintains that these differences are produced by the epigenetic action of gonadal hormones. However, evidence has progressively accumulated suggesting that genetic mechanisms controlling sexual-specific neuronal characteristics precede, or occur in parallel with, hormonal effects. 1. In cultures of hypothalamic neurons taken from gestation day 16 (GD16) embryos, treatment of sexually segregated cultures with estradiol (E2) induces axon growth in neurons from male neurons, but not from female neurons. In these cultures treatment with E2 increased the levels of tyrosine kinase type B (TrkB) and insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I) receptors in male but not in female neurons. This and other sex differences cannot be explained by differences in hormonal environment, because the donor embryos were obtained when gonadal secretion of steroids is just beginning, before the perinatal surge of testosterone that determines development of the male brain beginning at GD17/18. 2. The response to estrogen is contingent upon coculture with heterotopic glia (mostly astrocytes) from a target region (amygdala) harvested from same-sex fetuses at GD16, whereas in the presence of homotopic glia or in cultures without glia, E2 had no effect. It was concluded that the axogenic effect of E2 depends on interaction between neurons and glia from a target region and that neurons from fetal male donors appear to mature earlier than neurons from females, a differentiated response that takes place prior to divergent exposure to gonadal secretions. 3. The effects of target and nontarget glia-conditioned media (CM) on the E2-induced growth of neuronal processes of hypothalamic neurons obtained from sexually segregated fetal donors were also studied. Estrogen added to media conditioned by target glia modified the number of primary neurites and the growth of axons of hypothalamic neurons of males but not of females. 4. Neither the Type III steroidal receptor blocker tamoxifen nor Type I antiestrogen ICI 182,780 prevented the axogenic effects of the hormone. Estradiol made membrane-impermeable by conjugation to a protein of high molecular weight (E2-BSA) preserved its axogenic capacity, suggesting the possibility of a membrane effect responsible for the action of E2. 5. Western blot analysis of the tyrosine kinase type A (TrkA), type B (TrkB), type C (TrkC), and insulin-like growth factor (IGF-I R) receptors in extracts from homogenates of cultured hypothalamic neurons showed that in cultures of male-derived neurons grown with E2 and CM from target glia, the amounts of TrkB and IGF-I R increased notably. Densitometric quantification showed that these cultures had more TrkB than cultures with CM alone or E2 alone. On the contrary, in cultures of female-derived neurons, the presence of CM alone induced maximal levels of TrkB, which were not further increased by E2; female-derived neurons in all conditions did not contain IGF-I R. Levels of TrkC were not modified by any experimental condition in male- or female-derived cultures and Trk A was not found in the homogenates. These results are compared with similar data from other laboratories and integrated in a model for the confluent interaction of estrogen and neurotrophic factors released by glia that may contribute to the sexual differentiation of the brain.

Glial expression of estrogen and androgen receptors after rat brain injury

Estrogens and androgens can protect neurons from death caused by injury to the central nervous system. Astrocytes and microglia are major players in events triggered by neural lesions. To determine whether glia are direct targets of estrogens or androgens after neural insults, steroid receptor expression in glial cells was assessed in two different lesion models. An excitotoxic injury to the hippocampus or a stab wound to the parietal cortex and hippocampus was performed in male rats, and the resultant expression of steroid receptors in glial cells was assessed using double-label immunohistochemistry. Both lesions induced the expression of estrogen receptors (ERs) and androgen receptors (ARs) in glial cells. ERalpha was expressed in astrocytes immunoreactive (ERalpha-ir) for glial fibrillary acidic protein or vimentin. AR immunoreactivity colocalized with microglial markers, such as Griffonia simplicifolia lectin-1 or OX-6. The time course of ER and AR expression in glia was studied in the stab wound model. ERalpha-ir astrocytes and AR-ir microglia were observed 3 days after lesion. The number of ERalpha-ir and AR-ir glial cells reached a maximum 7 days after lesion and returned to low levels by 28 days postinjury. The studies of ERbeta expression in glia were inconclusive; different results were obtained with different antibodies. In sum, these results suggest that reactive astrocytes and reactive microglia are a direct target for estrogens and androgens, respectively.

Glial fibrillary acidic protein immunodetection and immunoreactivity in the anterior and posterior medial amygdala of male and female rats

The medial amygdala (MeA) has receptors for gonadal hormones and modulates reproductive behaviors in rats. Adult male and female rats were used for the immunodetection, a less accurate technique, and the immunohistochemistry for the astrocytic marker glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) in the anterior and posterior MeA. Both procedures were done using polyclonal anti-GFAP and were quantified by densitometry. The first technique provided no evidence for a difference between sexes in the immunocontent of GFAP in any region of the MeA (p > 0.1). Nevertheless, the measure of the intensity of GFAP immunoreactivity (GFAP-IR) showed that females had a higher GFAP-IR in the posterodorsal (p < 0.01) and in the posteroventral subregions of the MeA (p < 0.01) than males. No sex difference was found in its anterodorsal part (p > 0.1). The present results point out the differences between these two above-mentioned techniques but add a new finding to the previously described sexual dimorphism in the MeA, i.e., the GFAP-IR. Data also suggest that probably astrocytes can be affected by sex steroids in this brain area. It is likely that this regionally specific difference in the GFAP-IR may contribute to the distinct functional roles that the MeA subregions have in male and female rats.

Neural stem cells and the regulation of neurogenesis in the adult hippocampus

Neurogenesis continues in the hippocampal dentate gyrus of adult rodents and primates including humans. Neurons are born in the underlying subgranular layer (SGL) and move into the granule cell layer (GCL) to become mature granule neurons. Recent work indicates that the primary precursors for these new neurons correspond to radial astrocytes whose cell body is in the SGL and their processes traverse the GCL. These astrocytes divide to give rise to intermediate precursors, D cells that likely become mature granule neurons. Here we propose that the anatomy of radial astrocytes may allow for signals within the GCL to regulate neurogenesis in the SGL. Levels of neuronal activity within the granule cell layer may regulate the proliferation rates of radial astrocytes and determine the number of new neurons produced in the dentate gyrus.

Glial fibrillary acidic protein immunoreactive astrocytes in developing rat hippocampus

The developmental pattern of glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP)-immunoreactive astrocytes was investigated in the hippocampus (subfields CA1, CA3 and CA4) and in the dentate gyrus of male and female rats aged 11, 16, 30, 90 and 150 days by immunohistochemistry associated with image analysis. Analysis was centred on stratum radiatum, a hippocampal area rich in GFAP-immunoreactive astrocytes. The volume of different portions of hippocampus, the number and the size of astrocytes, the intensity of cell body GFAP immunostaining as well as the extension of astrocyte were assessed. A maturation pattern consisting in higher cellular expression of GFAP, an increase in overall cell size and expanding arborisation from the 11th to the 30th postnatal day, followed by stabilisation of these parameters until the 90th day of life, and a subsequent decrease in the oldest age group studied was found. A sex-related different temporal pattern of astrocytes maturation in size and GFAP content was observed in the CA1 subfield only. The increase of GFAP content during pre-weaning ages was less pronounced in females than in males as well as the decrease between the 90th and the 150th day of age. Moreover, the size of astrocytes was larger in females than in males at the 11th and 150th days of life. These findings suggest that hippocampal astrocytes undergo rapid maturation in the 1st month of postnatal life, followed by a slow consolidation of this process until the 3rd month of life. At 5 months of age, there are still dynamic changes in the mature astrocytes, which become slender and thinner probably as a response to the increased volume of hippocampus noticeable at this age.

Brain region-specific up-regulation of mouse apolipoprotein E by pharmacological estrogen treatments

Cerebral apolipoprotein E (apoE) has been implicated in neuronal protection and repair. Due to the variable levels and types of estrogen receptors within different brain regions, the effect of estrogen on apoE and the mechanism of this effect may vary within different regions. Ovariectomized female C57BL/6 mice were treated with pharmacological levels of 17 beta-estradiol or placebo for 5 days, resulting in supraphysiological plasma levels of estradiol in the treated mice. ApoE and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) levels were measured in the cortex, hippocampus and diencephalon. 17 beta-Estradiol up-regulated apoE but not GFAP in the cortex and diencephalon, whereas in the hippocampus, GFAP and apoE were equally up-regulated. Treatment of estrogen receptor (ER) alpha knockout mice with 17 beta-estradiol or treatment of C57BL/6 mice with 17 alpha-estradiol, a poor estrogen receptor agonist, specifically induced apoE in the cortex, but not in the diencephalon. These results indicate that 17 beta-estradiol effects on apoE are either directly or indirectly mediated by ER alpha in the diencephalon, while the effects in the cortex may be mediated by a non-classical mechanism or by ER beta. Measurement of mRNA levels in estrogen versus placebo-treated wild-type mice indicated that the effect of 17 beta-estradiol on apoE was not associated with changes in apoE mRNA levels.