1
|
Crutcher G. Lateral Connections Improve Generalizability of Learning in a Simple Neural Network. Neural Comput 2024; 36:705-717. [PMID: 38457747 DOI: 10.1162/neco_a_01640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/10/2024]
Abstract
To navigate the world around us, neural circuits rapidly adapt to their environment learning generalizable strategies to decode information. When modeling these learning strategies, network models find the optimal solution to satisfy one task condition but fail when introduced to a novel task or even a different stimulus in the same space. In the experiments described in this letter, I investigate the role of lateral gap junctions in learning generalizable strategies to process information. Lateral gap junctions are formed by connexin proteins creating an open pore that allows for direct electrical signaling between two neurons. During neural development, the rate of gap junctions is high, and daughter cells that share similar tuning properties are more likely to be connected by these junctions. Gap junctions are highly plastic and get heavily pruned throughout development. I hypothesize that they mediate generalized learning by imprinting the weighting structure within a layer to avoid overfitting to one task condition. To test this hypothesis, I implemented a feedforward probabilistic neural network mimicking a cortical fast spiking neuron circuit that is heavily involved in movement. Many of these cells are tuned to speeds that I used as the input stimulus for the network to estimate. When training this network using a delta learning rule, both a laterally connected network and an unconnected network can estimate a single speed. However, when asking the network to estimate two or more speeds, alternated in training, an unconnected network either cannot learn speed or optimizes to a singular speed, while the laterally connected network learns the generalizable strategy and can estimate both speeds. These results suggest that lateral gap junctions between neurons enable generalized learning, which may help explain learning differences across life span.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Garrett Crutcher
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD 21201, U.S.A.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Ferrucci L, Cantando I, Cordella F, Di Angelantonio S, Ragozzino D, Bezzi P. Microglia at the Tripartite Synapse during Postnatal Development: Implications for Autism Spectrum Disorders and Schizophrenia. Cells 2023; 12:2827. [PMID: 38132147 PMCID: PMC10742295 DOI: 10.3390/cells12242827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2023] [Revised: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Synapses are the fundamental structures of neural circuits that control brain functions and behavioral and cognitive processes. Synapses undergo formation, maturation, and elimination mainly during postnatal development via a complex interplay with neighboring astrocytes and microglia that, by shaping neural connectivity, may have a crucial role in the strengthening and weakening of synaptic functions, that is, the functional plasticity of synapses. Indeed, an increasing number of studies have unveiled the roles of microglia and astrocytes in synapse formation, maturation, and elimination as well as in regulating synaptic function. Over the past 15 years, the mechanisms underlying the microglia- and astrocytes-dependent regulation of synaptic plasticity have been thoroughly studied, and researchers have reported that the disruption of these glial cells in early postnatal development may underlie the cause of synaptic dysfunction that leads to neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and schizophrenia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Ferrucci
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Rome Sapienza, 00185 Rome, Italy; (L.F.); (F.C.); (S.D.A.); (D.R.)
| | - Iva Cantando
- Department of Fundamental Neurosciences, University of Lausanne, 1005 Lausanne, Switzerland;
| | - Federica Cordella
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Rome Sapienza, 00185 Rome, Italy; (L.F.); (F.C.); (S.D.A.); (D.R.)
- Center for Life Nano- & Neuro-Science, IIT, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Silvia Di Angelantonio
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Rome Sapienza, 00185 Rome, Italy; (L.F.); (F.C.); (S.D.A.); (D.R.)
- Center for Life Nano- & Neuro-Science, IIT, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Davide Ragozzino
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Rome Sapienza, 00185 Rome, Italy; (L.F.); (F.C.); (S.D.A.); (D.R.)
- IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, 00179 Rome, Italy
| | - Paola Bezzi
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Rome Sapienza, 00185 Rome, Italy; (L.F.); (F.C.); (S.D.A.); (D.R.)
- Department of Fundamental Neurosciences, University of Lausanne, 1005 Lausanne, Switzerland;
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Yamasaki R. Connexins Control Glial Inflammation in Various Neurological Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:16879. [PMID: 38069203 PMCID: PMC10706219 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242316879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2023] [Revised: 11/25/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Connexins (Cxs) form gap junctions through homotypic/heterotypic oligomerization. Cxs are initially synthesized in the endoplasmic reticulum, then assembled as hexamers in the Golgi apparatus before being integrated into the cell membrane as hemichannels. These hemichannels remain closed until they combine to create gap junctions, directly connecting neighboring cells. Changes in the intracellular or extracellular environment are believed to trigger the opening of hemichannels, creating a passage between the inside and outside of the cell. The size of the channel pore depends on the Cx isoform and cellular context-specific effects such as posttranslational modifications. Hemichannels allow various bioactive molecules, under ~1 kDa, to move in and out of the host cell in the direction of the electrochemical gradient. In this review, we explore the fundamental roles of Cxs and their clinical implications in various neurological dysfunctions, including hereditary diseases, ischemic brain disorders, degenerative conditions, demyelinating disorders, and psychiatric illnesses. The influence of Cxs on the pathomechanisms of different neurological disorders varies depending on the circumstances. Hemichannels are hypothesized to contribute to proinflammatory effects by releasing ATP, adenosine, glutamate, and other bioactive molecules, leading to neuroglial inflammation. Modulating Cxs' hemichannels has emerged as a promising therapeutic approach.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ryo Yamasaki
- Department of Neurology, Neurological Institute, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Lopez-Ortiz AO, Eyo UB. Astrocytes and microglia in the coordination of CNS development and homeostasis. J Neurochem 2023:10.1111/jnc.16006. [PMID: 37985374 PMCID: PMC11102936 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.16006] [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: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023]
Abstract
Glia have emerged as important architects of central nervous system (CNS) development and maintenance. While traditionally glial contributions to CNS development and maintenance have been studied independently, there is growing evidence that either suggests or documents that glia may act in coordinated manners to effect developmental patterning and homeostatic functions in the CNS. In this review, we focus on astrocytes, the most abundant glia in the CNS, and microglia, the earliest glia to colonize the CNS highlighting research that documents either suggestive or established coordinated actions by these glial cells in various CNS processes including cell and/or debris clearance, neuronal survival and morphogenesis, synaptic maturation, and circuit function, angio-/vasculogenesis, myelination, and neurotransmission. Some molecular mechanisms underlying these processes that have been identified are also described. Throughout, we categorize the available evidence as either suggestive or established interactions between microglia and astrocytes in the regulation of the respective process and raise possible avenues for further research. We conclude indicating that a better understanding of coordinated astrocyte-microglial interactions in the developing and mature brain holds promise for developing effective therapies for brain pathologies where these processes are perturbed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aída Oryza Lopez-Ortiz
- Center for Brain Immunology and Glia, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Ukpong B Eyo
- Center for Brain Immunology and Glia, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Lei L, Wang YT, Hu D, Gai C, Zhang Y. Astroglial Connexin 43-Mediated Gap Junctions and Hemichannels: Potential Antidepressant Mechanisms and the Link to Neuroinflammation. Cell Mol Neurobiol 2023; 43:4023-4040. [PMID: 37875763 DOI: 10.1007/s10571-023-01426-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/26/2023]
Abstract
Major depression disorder (MDD) is a neuropsychiatric disorder associated with a high suicide rate and a higher disability rate than any other disease. Evidence suggests that the pathological mechanism of MDD is related to astrocyte dysfunction. Depression is mainly associated with the expression of connexin 43 (Cx43) and the function of Cx43-mediated gap junctions and hemichannels in astrocytes. Moreover, neuroinflammation has been a hotspot in research on the pathology of depression, and Cx43-mediated functions are thought to be involved in neuroinflammation-related depression. However, the specific mechanism of Cx43-mediated functions in neuroinflammation-related depression pathology remains unclear. Therefore, this review summarizes and discusses Cx43 expression, the role of gap junction intercellular communication, and its relationship with neuroinflammation in depression. This review also focuses on the effects of antidepressant drugs (e.g., monoamine antidepressants, psychotropic drugs, and N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor antagonists) on Cx43-mediated function and provides evidence for Cx43 as a novel target for the treatment of MDD. The pathogenesis of MDD is related to astrocyte dysfunction, with reduced Cx43 expression, GJ dysfunction, decreased GJIC and reduced BDNF expression in the depressed brain. The effect of Cx43 on neuroinflammation-related depression involving inflammatory cytokines, glutamate excitotoxicity, and HPA axis dysregulation. Antidepressant drugs targeting Cx43 can effectively relieve depressive symptoms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lan Lei
- Department of Anatomy, School of Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Sunshine Southern Avenue, Fang-Shan District, Beijing, 102488, China
| | - Ya-Ting Wang
- Department of Anatomy, School of Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Sunshine Southern Avenue, Fang-Shan District, Beijing, 102488, China
| | - Die Hu
- Department of Anatomy, School of Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Sunshine Southern Avenue, Fang-Shan District, Beijing, 102488, China
| | - Cong Gai
- Department of Anatomy, School of Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Sunshine Southern Avenue, Fang-Shan District, Beijing, 102488, China
| | - Yi Zhang
- Department of Anatomy, School of Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Sunshine Southern Avenue, Fang-Shan District, Beijing, 102488, China.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Rapti G. Regulation of axon pathfinding by astroglia across genetic model organisms. Front Cell Neurosci 2023; 17:1241957. [PMID: 37941606 PMCID: PMC10628440 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2023.1241957] [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: 06/18/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Glia and neurons are intimately associated throughout bilaterian nervous systems, and were early proposed to interact for patterning circuit assembly. The investigations of circuit formation progressed from early hypotheses of intermediate guideposts and a "glia blueprint", to recent genetic and cell manipulations, and visualizations in vivo. An array of molecular factors are implicated in axon pathfinding but their number appears small relatively to circuit complexity. Comprehending this circuit complexity requires to identify unknown factors and dissect molecular topographies. Glia contribute to both aspects and certain studies provide molecular and functional insights into these contributions. Here, I survey glial roles in guiding axon navigation in vivo, emphasizing analogies, differences and open questions across major genetic models. I highlight studies pioneering the topic, and dissect recent findings that further advance our current molecular understanding. Circuits of the vertebrate forebrain, visual system and neural tube in zebrafish, mouse and chick, the Drosophila ventral cord and the C. elegans brain-like neuropil emerge as major contexts to study glial cell functions in axon navigation. I present astroglial cell types in these models, and their molecular and cellular interactions that drive axon guidance. I underline shared principles across models, conceptual or technical complications, and open questions that await investigation. Glia of the radial-astrocyte lineage, emerge as regulators of axon pathfinding, often employing common molecular factors across models. Yet this survey also highlights different involvements of glia in embryonic navigation or pioneer axon pathfinding, and unknowns in the molecular underpinnings of glial cell functions. Future cellular and molecular investigations should complete the comprehensive view of glial roles in circuit assembly.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Georgia Rapti
- Developmental Biology Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Heidelberg, Germany
- Epigenetics and Neurobiology Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Rome, Italy
- Interdisciplinary Center of Neurosciences, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Hastings N, Yu Y, Huang B, Middya S, Inaoka M, Erkamp NA, Mason RJ, Carnicer‐Lombarte A, Rahman S, Knowles TPJ, Bance M, Malliaras GG, Kotter MRN. Electrophysiological In Vitro Study of Long-Range Signal Transmission by Astrocytic Networks. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2023; 10:e2301756. [PMID: 37485646 PMCID: PMC10582426 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202301756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Revised: 07/09/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023]
Abstract
Astrocytes are diverse brain cells that form large networks communicating via gap junctions and chemical transmitters. Despite recent advances, the functions of astrocytic networks in information processing in the brain are not fully understood. In culture, brain slices, and in vivo, astrocytes, and neurons grow in tight association, making it challenging to establish whether signals that spread within astrocytic networks communicate with neuronal groups at distant sites, or whether astrocytes solely respond to their local environments. A multi-electrode array (MEA)-based device called AstroMEA is designed to separate neuronal and astrocytic networks, thus allowing to study the transfer of chemical and/or electrical signals transmitted via astrocytic networks capable of changing neuronal electrical behavior. AstroMEA demonstrates that cortical astrocytic networks can induce a significant upregulation in the firing frequency of neurons in response to a theta-burst charge-balanced biphasic current stimulation (5 pulses of 100 Hz × 10 with 200 ms intervals, 2 s total duration) of a separate neuronal-astrocytic group in the absence of direct neuronal contact. This result corroborates the view of astrocytic networks as a parallel mechanism of signal transmission in the brain that is separate from the neuronal connectome. Translationally, it highlights the importance of astrocytic network protection as a treatment target.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nataly Hastings
- Department of Clinical NeurosciencesUniversity of CambridgeCambridgeCB2 0QQUK
- Wellcome‐MRC Cambridge Stem Cell InstituteUniversity of CambridgeCambridgeCB2 0AWUK
- Electrical Engineering DivisionDepartment of EngineeringUniversity of CambridgeCambridgeCB3 0FAUK
| | - Yi‐Lin Yu
- Department of Clinical NeurosciencesUniversity of CambridgeCambridgeCB2 0QQUK
- Department of Neurological SurgeryTri‐Service General HospitalNational Defence Medical CentreTaipei, Neihu District11490Taiwan
| | - Botian Huang
- Department of Clinical NeurosciencesUniversity of CambridgeCambridgeCB2 0QQUK
| | - Sagnik Middya
- Electrical Engineering DivisionDepartment of EngineeringUniversity of CambridgeCambridgeCB3 0FAUK
| | - Misaki Inaoka
- Electrical Engineering DivisionDepartment of EngineeringUniversity of CambridgeCambridgeCB3 0FAUK
| | - Nadia A. Erkamp
- Yusuf Hamied Department of ChemistryCentre for Misfolding DiseasesUniversity of CambridgeLensfield RoadCambridgeCB2 1EWUK
| | - Roger J. Mason
- Department of Clinical NeurosciencesUniversity of CambridgeCambridgeCB2 0QQUK
| | | | - Saifur Rahman
- Department of Clinical NeurosciencesUniversity of CambridgeCambridgeCB2 0QQUK
- Wellcome‐MRC Cambridge Stem Cell InstituteUniversity of CambridgeCambridgeCB2 0AWUK
| | - Tuomas P. J. Knowles
- Yusuf Hamied Department of ChemistryCentre for Misfolding DiseasesUniversity of CambridgeLensfield RoadCambridgeCB2 1EWUK
- Cavendish LaboratoryDepartment of PhysicsUniversity of CambridgeJ J Thomson AveCambridgeCB3 0HEUK
| | - Manohar Bance
- Department of Clinical NeurosciencesUniversity of CambridgeCambridgeCB2 0QQUK
| | - George G. Malliaras
- Electrical Engineering DivisionDepartment of EngineeringUniversity of CambridgeCambridgeCB3 0FAUK
| | - Mark R. N. Kotter
- Department of Clinical NeurosciencesUniversity of CambridgeCambridgeCB2 0QQUK
- Wellcome‐MRC Cambridge Stem Cell InstituteUniversity of CambridgeCambridgeCB2 0AWUK
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Wang Y, Yu S, Li M. Neurovascular crosstalk and cerebrovascular alterations: an underestimated therapeutic target in autism spectrum disorders. Front Cell Neurosci 2023; 17:1226580. [PMID: 37692552 PMCID: PMC10491023 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2023.1226580] [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: 05/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Normal brain development, function, and aging critically depend on unique characteristics of the cerebrovascular system. Growing evidence indicated that cerebrovascular defects can have irreversible effects on the brain, and these defects have been implicated in various neurological disorders, including autism spectrum disorder (ASD). ASD is a neurodevelopmental disorder with heterogeneous clinical manifestations and anatomical changes. While extensive research has focused on the neural abnormalities underlying ASD, the role of brain vasculature in this disorder remains poorly understood. Indeed, the significance of cerebrovascular contributions to ASD has been consistently underestimated. In this work, we discuss the neurovascular crosstalk during embryonic development and highlight recent findings on cerebrovascular alterations in individuals with ASD. We also discuss the potential of vascular-based therapy for ASD. Collectively, these investigations demonstrate that ASD can be considered a neurovascular disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yiran Wang
- Queen Mary School, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Shunyu Yu
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Mengqian Li
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Oya M, Matsuoka K, Kubota M, Fujino J, Tei S, Takahata K, Tagai K, Yamamoto Y, Shimada H, Seki C, Itahashi T, Aoki YY, Ohta H, Hashimoto RI, Sugihara G, Obata T, Zhang MR, Suhara T, Nakamura M, Kato N, Takado Y, Takahashi H, Higuchi M. Increased glutamate and glutamine levels and their relationship to astrocytes and dopaminergic transmissions in the brains of adults with autism. Sci Rep 2023; 13:11655. [PMID: 37468523 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-38306-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Increased excitatory neuronal tones have been implicated in autism, but its mechanism remains elusive. The amplified glutamate signals may arise from enhanced glutamatergic circuits, which can be affected by astrocyte activation and suppressive signaling of dopamine neurotransmission. We tested this hypothesis using magnetic resonance spectroscopy and positron emission tomography scan with 11C-SCH23390 for dopamine D1 receptors in the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC). We enrolled 18 male adults with high-functioning autism and 20 typically developed (TD) male subjects. The autism group showed elevated glutamate, glutamine, and myo-inositol (mI) levels compared with the TD group (p = 0.045, p = 0.044, p = 0.030, respectively) and a positive correlation between glutamine and mI levels in the ACC (r = 0.54, p = 0.020). In autism and TD groups, ACC D1 receptor radioligand binding was negatively correlated with ACC glutamine levels (r = - 0.55, p = 0.022; r = - 0.58, p = 0.008, respectively). The enhanced glutamate-glutamine metabolism might be due to astroglial activation and the consequent reinforcement of glutamine synthesis in autistic brains. Glutamine synthesis could underly the physiological inhibitory control of dopaminergic D1 receptor signals. Our findings suggest a high neuron excitation-inhibition ratio with astrocytic activation in the etiology of autism.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Masaki Oya
- Department of Functional Brain Imaging, Institute for Quantum Medical Science, National Institutes for Quantum Science and Technology (QST), 4-9-1 Anagawa, Inage-ku, Chiba-shi, Chiba, 263-8555, Japan
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kiwamu Matsuoka
- Department of Functional Brain Imaging, Institute for Quantum Medical Science, National Institutes for Quantum Science and Technology (QST), 4-9-1 Anagawa, Inage-ku, Chiba-shi, Chiba, 263-8555, Japan.
- Department of Psychiatry, Nara Medical University, Kashihara-shi, Nara, Japan.
| | - Manabu Kubota
- Department of Functional Brain Imaging, Institute for Quantum Medical Science, National Institutes for Quantum Science and Technology (QST), 4-9-1 Anagawa, Inage-ku, Chiba-shi, Chiba, 263-8555, Japan
- Department of Psychiatry, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto, Japan
- Medical Institute of Developmental Disabilities Research, Showa University, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Junya Fujino
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
- Medical Institute of Developmental Disabilities Research, Showa University, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shisei Tei
- Department of Psychiatry, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto, Japan
- Medical Institute of Developmental Disabilities Research, Showa University, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo, Japan
- Institute of Applied Brain Sciences, Waseda University, Tokorozawa-shi, Saitama, Japan
- School of Human and Social Sciences, Tokyo International University, Kawagoe-shi, Saitama, Japan
| | - Keisuke Takahata
- Department of Functional Brain Imaging, Institute for Quantum Medical Science, National Institutes for Quantum Science and Technology (QST), 4-9-1 Anagawa, Inage-ku, Chiba-shi, Chiba, 263-8555, Japan
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Keio University School of Medicine, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kenji Tagai
- Department of Functional Brain Imaging, Institute for Quantum Medical Science, National Institutes for Quantum Science and Technology (QST), 4-9-1 Anagawa, Inage-ku, Chiba-shi, Chiba, 263-8555, Japan
| | - Yasuharu Yamamoto
- Department of Functional Brain Imaging, Institute for Quantum Medical Science, National Institutes for Quantum Science and Technology (QST), 4-9-1 Anagawa, Inage-ku, Chiba-shi, Chiba, 263-8555, Japan
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Keio University School of Medicine, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hitoshi Shimada
- Department of Functional Brain Imaging, Institute for Quantum Medical Science, National Institutes for Quantum Science and Technology (QST), 4-9-1 Anagawa, Inage-ku, Chiba-shi, Chiba, 263-8555, Japan
- Center for Integrated Human Brain Science, Brain Research Institute, Niigata University, Niigata-shi, Niigata, Japan
| | - Chie Seki
- Department of Functional Brain Imaging, Institute for Quantum Medical Science, National Institutes for Quantum Science and Technology (QST), 4-9-1 Anagawa, Inage-ku, Chiba-shi, Chiba, 263-8555, Japan
| | - Takashi Itahashi
- Medical Institute of Developmental Disabilities Research, Showa University, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yuta Y Aoki
- Medical Institute of Developmental Disabilities Research, Showa University, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Haruhisa Ohta
- Medical Institute of Developmental Disabilities Research, Showa University, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Showa University, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ryu-Ichiro Hashimoto
- Medical Institute of Developmental Disabilities Research, Showa University, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Language Sciences, Graduate School of Humanities, Tokyo Metropolitan University, Hachioji-shi, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Genichi Sugihara
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takayuki Obata
- Department of Molecular Imaging and Theranostics, Institute for Quantum Medical Science, National Institutes for Quantum Science and Technology, Chiba-shi, Chiba, Japan
| | - Ming-Rong Zhang
- Department of Advanced Nuclear Medicine Sciences, Institute for Quantum Medical Science, National Institutes for Quantum Science and Technology, Chiba-shi, Chiba, Japan
| | - Tetsuya Suhara
- Department of Functional Brain Imaging, Institute for Quantum Medical Science, National Institutes for Quantum Science and Technology (QST), 4-9-1 Anagawa, Inage-ku, Chiba-shi, Chiba, 263-8555, Japan
| | - Motoaki Nakamura
- Medical Institute of Developmental Disabilities Research, Showa University, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo, Japan
- Kanagawa Psychiatric Center, Yokohama-shi, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Nobumasa Kato
- Medical Institute of Developmental Disabilities Research, Showa University, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yuhei Takado
- Department of Functional Brain Imaging, Institute for Quantum Medical Science, National Institutes for Quantum Science and Technology (QST), 4-9-1 Anagawa, Inage-ku, Chiba-shi, Chiba, 263-8555, Japan
| | - Hidehiko Takahashi
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
- Center for Brain Integration Research, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Makoto Higuchi
- Department of Functional Brain Imaging, Institute for Quantum Medical Science, National Institutes for Quantum Science and Technology (QST), 4-9-1 Anagawa, Inage-ku, Chiba-shi, Chiba, 263-8555, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Davoudi S, Rahdar M, Hosseinmardi N, Behzadi G, Janahmadi M. Chronic inhibition of astrocytic aquaporin-4 induces autistic-like behavior in control rat offspring similar to maternal exposure to valproic acid. Physiol Behav 2023:114286. [PMID: 37402416 DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2023.114286] [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: 05/19/2023] [Revised: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 07/01/2023] [Indexed: 07/06/2023]
Abstract
Social communication and interaction deficits, memory impairment, and anxiety-like behavior are characterized in many people identified with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). A thorough understanding of the specific aspects that contribute to the deficiencies associated with ASD can aid research into the etiology of the disorder while also providing targets for more effective intervention. As part of the ASD pathophysiology, alterations in synaptogenesis and abnormal network connections were seen in high-order brain areas, which control social behavior and communication. The early emergence of microglia during nervous system development may contribute to synaptic dysfunction and the pathobiology of ASD. Since aquaporin-4 (AQP4) appears to be required for the basic procedures of synapse activation, certain behavioral and cognitive impairments as well as disturbance in water homeostasis might likely arise from AQP4 deficiency. Here, through the measurement of the water content of the hippocampus and behavioral experiments we aim to explore the contribution of astrocytic AQP4 to the autism-like behavior induced by prenatal valproic acid (VPA) exposure and whether inhibition of AQP4 per se can induce autistic-like behavior in control rats. Microinjection of TGN-020 (10µM, i.c.v), a specific AQP4 inhibitor, for 7 successive days before behavioral tasks from postnatal day 28 to 35 revealed that inhibition of AQP4 in the control offspring caused lower social interaction and locomotor activity, higher anxiety, and decreased ability to recognize novel objects, very similar to the behavioral changes observed in offspring prenatally exposed to VPA. However, VPA-exposed offspring treated with TGN-020, showed no further remarkable behavioral impairments than those detected in the autistic-like rats. Furthermore, both control offspring treated with TGN-020 and offspring exposed to VPA had a considerable accumulation of water in their hippocampi. But AQP4 inhibition did not affect the water status of the autistic-like rats. The findings of this study revealed that control offspring exhibited similar hippocampal water retention and behavioral impairments that were observed in maternal VPA-exposed offspring following inhibition of astrocytic AQP4, whereas, in autistic-like rats, it did not produce any significant change in water content and behaviors. Findings suggest that AQP4 deficiency could be associated with autistic disorder and may be a potential pharmaceutical target for treating autism in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shima Davoudi
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mona Rahdar
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Narges Hosseinmardi
- Neurophysiology Research Center, Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Gila Behzadi
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahyar Janahmadi
- Neuroscience Research Center, Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Liao X, Chen M, Li Y. The glial perspective of autism spectrum disorder convergent evidence from postmortem brain and PET studies. Front Neuroendocrinol 2023; 70:101064. [PMID: 36889545 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2023.101064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2022] [Revised: 02/12/2023] [Accepted: 03/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The present study aimed to systematically and quantitatively review evidence derived from both postmortem brain and PET studies to explore the pathological role of glia induced neuroinflammation in the pathogenesis of ASD, and discuss the implications of these findings in relation to disease pathogenesis and therapeutic strategies. METHOD An online databases search was performed to collate postmortem studies and PET studies regarding glia induced neuroinflammation in ASD as compared to controls. Two authors independently conducted the literature search, study selection and data extraction. The discrepancies generated in these processes was resolved through robust discussions among all authors. RESULT The literature search yielded the identification of 619 records, from which 22 postmortem studies and 3 PET studies were identified as eligible for the qualitative synthesis. Meta-analysis of postmortem studies reported increased microglial number and microglia density as well as increased GFAP protein expression and GFAP mRNA expression in ASD subjects as compared to controls. Three PET studies produced different outcomes and emphasized different details, with one reported increased and two reported decreased TSPO expression in ASD subjects as compared to controls. CONCLUSION Both postmortem evidences and PET studies converged to support the involvement of glia induced neuroinflammation in the pathogenesis of ASD. The limited number of included studies along with the considerable heterogeneity of these studies prevented the development of firm conclusions and challenged the explanation of variability. Future research should prioritize the replication of current studies and the validation of current observations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoli Liao
- Xiangya Nursing School, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China; Clinical Nursing Teaching and Research Section, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Miao Chen
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Yamin Li
- Clinical Nursing Teaching and Research Section, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Fabbri R, Spennato D, Conte G, Konstantoulaki A, Lazzarini C, Saracino E, Nicchia GP, Frigeri A, Zamboni R, Spray DC, Benfenati V. The emerging science of Glioception: Contribution of glia in sensing, transduction, circuit integration of interoception. Pharmacol Ther 2023; 245:108403. [PMID: 37024060 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2023.108403] [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: 10/13/2022] [Revised: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 04/08/2023]
Abstract
Interoception is the process by which the nervous system regulates internal functions to achieve homeostasis. The role of neurons in interoception has received considerable recent attention, but glial cells also contribute. Glial cells can sense and transduce signals including osmotic, chemical, and mechanical status of extracellular milieu. Their ability to dynamically communicate "listening" and "talking" to neurons is necessary to monitor and regulate homeostasis and information integration in the nervous system. This review introduces the concept of "Glioception" and focuses on the process by which glial cells sense, interpret and integrate information about the inner state of the organism. Glial cells are ideally positioned to act as sensors and integrators of diverse interoceptive signals and can trigger regulatory responses via modulation of the activity of neuronal networks, both in physiological and pathological conditions. We believe that understanding and manipulating glioceptive processes and underlying molecular mechanisms provide a key path to develop new therapies for the prevention and alleviation of devastating interoceptive dysfunctions, among which pain is emphasized here with more focused details.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Roberta Fabbri
- Institute for Organic Synthesis and Photoreactivity (ISOF), National Research Council of Italy (CNR), Via P. Gobetti 101, I-40129 Bologna, Italy; Department of Electrical, Electronic, and Information Engineering "Guglielmo Marconi", University of Bologna, viale del Risorgimento 2, 40136 Bologna, Italy.
| | - Diletta Spennato
- Institute for Organic Synthesis and Photoreactivity (ISOF), National Research Council of Italy (CNR), Via P. Gobetti 101, I-40129 Bologna, Italy; Department of Bioscience, Biotechnologies and Biopharmaceutics, Centre of Excellence in Comparative Genomics, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Bari, BA, Italy
| | - Giorgia Conte
- Institute for Organic Synthesis and Photoreactivity (ISOF), National Research Council of Italy (CNR), Via P. Gobetti 101, I-40129 Bologna, Italy
| | - Aikaterini Konstantoulaki
- Institute for Organic Synthesis and Photoreactivity (ISOF), National Research Council of Italy (CNR), Via P. Gobetti 101, I-40129 Bologna, Italy; Department of Chemistry "Giacomo Ciamician", University of Bologna, Via Selmi, 2, 40126 Bologna, BO, Italy
| | - Chiara Lazzarini
- Institute for Organic Synthesis and Photoreactivity (ISOF), National Research Council of Italy (CNR), Via P. Gobetti 101, I-40129 Bologna, Italy
| | - Emanuela Saracino
- Institute for Organic Synthesis and Photoreactivity (ISOF), National Research Council of Italy (CNR), Via P. Gobetti 101, I-40129 Bologna, Italy
| | - Grazia Paola Nicchia
- School of Medicine, Basic Medical Sciences, Neuroscience and Sense Organs, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Bari, BA, Italy; Department of Bioscience, Biotechnologies and Biopharmaceutics, Centre of Excellence in Comparative Genomics, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Bari, BA, Italy
| | - Antonio Frigeri
- Department of Neuroscience, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA; Department of Bioscience, Biotechnologies and Biopharmaceutics, Centre of Excellence in Comparative Genomics, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Bari, BA, Italy
| | - Roberto Zamboni
- Institute for Organic Synthesis and Photoreactivity (ISOF), National Research Council of Italy (CNR), Via P. Gobetti 101, I-40129 Bologna, Italy
| | - David C Spray
- Department of Neuroscience, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA.
| | - Valentina Benfenati
- Institute for Organic Synthesis and Photoreactivity (ISOF), National Research Council of Italy (CNR), Via P. Gobetti 101, I-40129 Bologna, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Vakilzadeh G, Martinez-Cerdeño V. Pathology and Astrocytes in Autism. Neuropsychiatr Dis Treat 2023; 19:841-850. [PMID: 37077706 PMCID: PMC10106330 DOI: 10.2147/ndt.s390053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2022] [Accepted: 01/13/2023] [Indexed: 04/21/2023] Open
Abstract
A distinct pathology for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) remains elusive. Human and animal studies have focused on investigating the role of neurons in ASD. However, recent studies have hinted that glial cell pathology could be a characteristic of ASD. Astrocytes are the most abundant glial cell in the brain and play an important role in neuronal function, both during development and in adult. They regulate neuronal migration, dendritic and spine development, and control the concentration of neurotransmitters at the synaptic cleft. They are also responsible for synaptogenesis, synaptic development, and synaptic function. Therefore, any change in astrocyte number and/or function could contribute to the impairment of connectivity that has been reported in ASD. Data available to date is scarce but indicates that while the number of astrocytes is reduced, their state of activation and their GFAP expression is increased in ASD. Disruption of astrocyte function in ASD may affect proper neurotransmitter metabolism, synaptogenesis, and the state of brain inflammation. Astrocytes alterations are common to ASD and other neurodevelopmental disorders. Future studies about the role of astrocytes in ASD are required to better understand this disorder.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gelareh Vakilzadeh
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, UC Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA, USA
- Institute for Pediatric Regenerative Medicine, and Shriners Hospitals for Children, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Veronica Martinez-Cerdeño
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, UC Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA, USA
- Institute for Pediatric Regenerative Medicine, and Shriners Hospitals for Children, Sacramento, CA, USA
- MIND Institute, UC Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA, USA
- Correspondence: Veronica Martinez-Cerdeño, 2425 Stockton Boulevard, Sacramento, CA, 95817, USA, Tel +916 453-2163, Email
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Aragón-González A, Shaw PJ, Ferraiuolo L. Blood-Brain Barrier Disruption and Its Involvement in Neurodevelopmental and Neurodegenerative Disorders. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232315271. [PMID: 36499600 PMCID: PMC9737531 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232315271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2022] [Revised: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The blood-brain barrier (BBB) is a highly specialized and dynamic compartment which regulates the uptake of molecules and solutes from the blood. The relevance of the maintenance of a healthy BBB underpinning disease prevention as well as the main pathomechanisms affecting BBB function will be detailed in this review. Barrier disruption is a common aspect in both neurodegenerative diseases, such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and neurodevelopmental diseases, including autism spectrum disorders. Throughout this review, conditions altering the BBB during the earliest and latest stages of life will be discussed, revealing common factors involved. Due to the barrier's role in protecting the brain from exogenous components and xenobiotics, drug delivery across the BBB is challenging. Potential therapies based on the BBB properties as molecular Trojan horses, among others, will be reviewed, as well as innovative treatments such as stem cell therapies. Additionally, due to the microbiome influence on the normal function of the brain, microflora modulation strategies will be discussed. Finally, future research directions are highlighted to address the current gaps in the literature, emphasizing the idea that common therapies for both neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative pathologies exist.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ana Aragón-González
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience, University of Sheffield, SITraN, 385a Glossop Road, Sheffield S10 2HQ, UK
- Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Málaga, 29010 Málaga, Spain
| | - Pamela J. Shaw
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience, University of Sheffield, SITraN, 385a Glossop Road, Sheffield S10 2HQ, UK
| | - Laura Ferraiuolo
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience, University of Sheffield, SITraN, 385a Glossop Road, Sheffield S10 2HQ, UK
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +44-(0)114-222-2257; Fax: +44-(0)114-222-2290
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Mahony C, O'Ryan C. A molecular framework for autistic experiences: Mitochondrial allostatic load as a mediator between autism and psychopathology. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:985713. [PMID: 36506457 PMCID: PMC9732262 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.985713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Molecular autism research is evolving toward a biopsychosocial framework that is more informed by autistic experiences. In this context, research aims are moving away from correcting external autistic behaviors and toward alleviating internal distress. Autism Spectrum Conditions (ASCs) are associated with high rates of depression, suicidality and other comorbid psychopathologies, but this relationship is poorly understood. Here, we integrate emerging characterizations of internal autistic experiences within a molecular framework to yield insight into the prevalence of psychopathology in ASC. We demonstrate that descriptions of social camouflaging and autistic burnout resonate closely with the accepted definitions for early life stress (ELS) and chronic adolescent stress (CAS). We propose that social camouflaging could be considered a distinct form of CAS that contributes to allostatic overload, culminating in a pathophysiological state that is experienced as autistic burnout. Autistic burnout is thought to contribute to psychopathology via psychological and physiological mechanisms, but these remain largely unexplored by molecular researchers. Building on converging fields in molecular neuroscience, we discuss the substantial evidence implicating mitochondrial dysfunction in ASC to propose a novel role for mitochondrial allostatic load in the relationship between autism and psychopathology. An interplay between mitochondrial, neuroimmune and neuroendocrine signaling is increasingly implicated in stress-related psychopathologies, and these molecular players are also associated with neurodevelopmental, neurophysiological and neurochemical aspects of ASC. Together, this suggests an increased exposure and underlying molecular susceptibility to ELS that increases the risk of psychopathology in ASC. This article describes an integrative framework shaped by autistic experiences that highlights novel avenues for molecular research into mechanisms that directly affect the quality of life and wellbeing of autistic individuals. Moreover, this framework emphasizes the need for increased access to diagnoses, accommodations, and resources to improve mental health outcomes in autism.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Colleen O'Ryan
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Hendi A, Niu LG, Snow AW, Ikegami R, Wang ZW, Mizumoto K. Channel-independent function of UNC-9/Innexin in spatial arrangement of GABAergic synapses in C. elegans. eLife 2022; 11:80555. [PMID: 36378164 PMCID: PMC9665852 DOI: 10.7554/elife.80555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Precise synaptic connection of neurons with their targets is essential for the proper functioning of the nervous system. A plethora of signaling pathways act in concert to mediate the precise spatial arrangement of synaptic connections. Here we show a novel role for a gap junction protein in controlling tiled synaptic arrangement in the GABAergic motor neurons in Caenorhabditis elegans, in which their axons and synapses overlap minimally with their neighboring neurons within the same class. We found that while EGL-20/Wnt controls axonal tiling, their presynaptic tiling is mediated by a gap junction protein UNC-9/Innexin, that is localized at the presynaptic tiling border between neighboring dorsal D-type GABAergic motor neurons. Strikingly, the gap junction channel activity of UNC-9 is dispensable for its function in controlling tiled presynaptic patterning. While gap junctions are crucial for the proper functioning of the nervous system as channels, our finding uncovered the novel channel-independent role of UNC-9 in synapse patterning.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ardalan Hendi
- Department of Zoology, University of British Columbia
- Life Sciences Institute, University of British Columbia
| | - Long-Gang Niu
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Connecticut Health Center
| | - Andrew William Snow
- Graduate Program in Cell and Developmental Biology, University of British Columbia
| | | | - Zhao-Wen Wang
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Connecticut Health Center
| | - Kota Mizumoto
- Department of Zoology, University of British Columbia
- Life Sciences Institute, University of British Columbia
- Graduate Program in Cell and Developmental Biology, University of British Columbia
- Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health, University of British Columbia
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Zhang NN, Zhang Y, Wang ZZ, Chen NH. Connexin 43: insights into candidate pathological mechanisms of depression and its implications in antidepressant therapy. Acta Pharmacol Sin 2022; 43:2448-2461. [PMID: 35145238 PMCID: PMC9525669 DOI: 10.1038/s41401-022-00861-2] [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: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 01/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Major depressive disorder (MDD), a chronic and recurrent disease characterized by anhedonia, pessimism or even suicidal thought, remains a major chronic mental concern worldwide. Connexin 43 (Cx43) is the most abundant connexin expressed in astrocytes and forms the gap junction channels (GJCs) between astrocytes, the most abundant and functional glial cells in the brain. Astrocytes regulate neurons' synaptic strength and function by expressing receptors and regulating various neurotransmitters. Astrocyte dysfunction causes synaptic abnormalities, which are related to various mood disorders, e.g., depression. Increasing evidence suggests a crucial role of Cx43 in the pathogenesis of depression. Depression down-regulates Cx43 expression in humans and rats, and dysfunction of Cx43 also induces depressive behaviors in rats and mice. Recently Cx43 has received considerable critical attention and is highly implicated in the onset of depression. However, the pathological mechanisms of depression-like behavior associated with Cx43 still remain ambiguous. In this review we summarize the recent progress regarding the underlying mechanisms of Cx43 in the etiology of depression-like behaviors including gliotransmission, metabolic disorders, and neuroinflammation. We also discuss the effects of antidepressants (monoamine antidepressants and ketamine) on Cx43. The clarity of the candidate pathological mechanisms of depression-like behaviors associated with Cx43 and its potential pharmacological roles for antidepressants will benefit the exploration of a novel antidepressant target.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ning-Ning Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Functions of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica & Neuroscience Center, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100050, China
| | - Yi Zhang
- Department of Anatomy, School of Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 102488, China
| | - Zhen-Zhen Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Functions of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica & Neuroscience Center, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100050, China.
| | - Nai-Hong Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Functions of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica & Neuroscience Center, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100050, China.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Zlomuzica A, Plank L, Dere E. A new path to mental disorders: Through gap junction channels and hemichannels. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2022; 142:104877. [PMID: 36116574 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2022.104877] [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: 01/31/2022] [Revised: 08/20/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Behavioral disturbances related to emotional regulation, reward processing, cognition, sleep-wake regulation and activity/movement represent core symptoms of most common mental disorders. Increasing empirical and theoretical evidence suggests that normal functioning of these behavioral domains relies on fine graded coordination of neural and glial networks which are maintained and modulated by intercellular gap junction channels and unapposed pannexin or connexin hemichannels. Dysfunctions in these networks might contribute to the development and maintenance of psychopathological and neurobiological features associated with mental disorders. Here we review and discuss the evidence indicating a prominent role of gap junction channel and hemichannel dysfunction in core symptoms of mental disorders. We further discuss how the increasing knowledge on intercellular gap junction channels and unapposed pannexin or connexin hemichannels in the brain might lead to deeper mechanistic insight in common mental disorders and to the development of novel treatment approaches. We further attempt to exemplify what type of future research on this topic could be integrated into multidimensional approaches to understand and cure mental disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Armin Zlomuzica
- Department of Behavioral and Clinical Neuroscience, Ruhr-University Bochum (RUB), Massenbergstraße 9-13, D-44787 Bochum, Germany.
| | - Laurin Plank
- Department of Behavioral and Clinical Neuroscience, Ruhr-University Bochum (RUB), Massenbergstraße 9-13, D-44787 Bochum, Germany
| | - Ekrem Dere
- Department of Behavioral and Clinical Neuroscience, Ruhr-University Bochum (RUB), Massenbergstraße 9-13, D-44787 Bochum, Germany; Sorbonne Université. Institut de Biologie Paris-Seine, (IBPS), Département UMR 8256: Adaptation Biologique et Vieillissement, UFR des Sciences de la Vie, Campus Pierre et Marie Curie, Bâtiment B, 9 quai Saint Bernard, F-75005 Paris, France.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Baracaldo-Santamaría D, Corrales-Hernández MG, Ortiz-Vergara MC, Cormane-Alfaro V, Luque-Bernal RM, Calderon-Ospina CA, Cediel-Becerra JF. Connexins and Pannexins: Important Players in Neurodevelopment, Neurological Diseases, and Potential Therapeutics. Biomedicines 2022; 10:2237. [PMID: 36140338 PMCID: PMC9496069 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10092237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 08/30/2022] [Accepted: 09/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Cell-to-cell communication is essential for proper embryonic development and its dysfunction may lead to disease. Recent research has drawn attention to a new group of molecules called connexins (Cxs) and pannexins (Panxs). Cxs have been described for more than forty years as pivotal regulators of embryogenesis; however, the exact mechanism by which they provide this regulation has not been clearly elucidated. Consequently, Cxs and Panxs have been linked to congenital neurodegenerative diseases such as Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease and, more recently, chronic hemichannel opening has been associated with adult neurodegenerative diseases (e.g., Alzheimer's disease). Cell-to-cell communication via gap junctions formed by hexameric assemblies of Cxs, known as connexons, is believed to be a crucial component in developmental regulation. As for Panxs, despite being topologically similar to Cxs, they predominantly seem to form channels connecting the cytoplasm to the extracellular space and, despite recent research into Panx1 (Pannexin 1) expression in different regions of the brain during the embryonic phase, it has been studied to a lesser degree. When it comes to the nervous system, Cxs and Panxs play an important role in early stages of neuronal development with a wide span of action ranging from cellular migration during early stages to neuronal differentiation and system circuitry formation. In this review, we describe the most recent available evidence regarding the molecular and structural aspects of Cx and Panx channels, their role in neurodevelopment, congenital and adult neurological diseases, and finally propose how pharmacological modulation of these channels could modify the pathogenesis of some diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Baracaldo-Santamaría
- Pharmacology Unit, Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universidad del Rosario, Bogotá 111221, Colombia
| | - María Gabriela Corrales-Hernández
- Pharmacology Unit, Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universidad del Rosario, Bogotá 111221, Colombia
| | - Maria Camila Ortiz-Vergara
- Pharmacology Unit, Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universidad del Rosario, Bogotá 111221, Colombia
| | - Valeria Cormane-Alfaro
- Pharmacology Unit, Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universidad del Rosario, Bogotá 111221, Colombia
| | - Ricardo-Miguel Luque-Bernal
- Anatomy and Embriology Units, Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universidad del Rosario, Bogotá 111221, Colombia
| | - Carlos-Alberto Calderon-Ospina
- Pharmacology Unit, Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universidad del Rosario, Bogotá 111221, Colombia
- GENIUROS Research Group, Center for Research in Genetics and Genomics (CIGGUR), School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universidad del Rosario, Bogotá 111221, Colombia
| | - Juan-Fernando Cediel-Becerra
- Histology and Embryology Unit, Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universidad del Rosario, Bogotá 111221, Colombia
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Ardalan M, Chumak T, Quist A, Jabbari Shiadeh SM, Mallard AJ, Rafati AH, Mallard C. Sex dependent glio-vascular interface abnormality in the hippocampus following postnatal immune activation in mice. Dev Neurosci 2022; 44:320-330. [PMID: 35705008 PMCID: PMC9533445 DOI: 10.1159/000525478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2021] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The neuro-gliovascular unit is a crucial structure for providing a balanced well-functioning environment for neurons and their synapses. Activation of the immune system during the developmental period is believed to affect the gliovascular unit, which may trigger neurodevelopmental and neurological/neuropsychiatric diseases. In this study, we hypothesized that vulnerability of the male brain to a neonatal insult was conditioned by sex-dependent differences in the impairment of the hippocampal gliovascular unit. Male and female C57BL/6J pups received lipopolysaccharide (LPS) (1 mg/kg) or saline on postnatal day (P) 5. Brains were collected at P12 and morphological quantifications of hippocampal fibrillary glial acid protein (GFAP<sup>+</sup>) astrocytes and ionized calcium-binding adaptor molecule 1 protein (Iba1+) microglia were performed by using 3-D image analysis together with measuring the length of CD31<sup>+</sup> and aquaporin-4 (AQP4<sup>+</sup>) vessels. We found a significant increase in the length of CD31<sup>+</sup> capillaries in the male LPS group compared to the saline group; however, coverage of capillaries by astrocytic end-feet (AQP4<sup>+</sup>) was significantly reduced. In contrast, there was a significant increase in AQP4<sup>+</sup> capillary length in female pups 1 week after LPS injection. GFAP<sup>+</sup> astrocytes via morphological changes in the hippocampus showed significant enhancement in the activity 1 week following LPS injection in male mice. We propose that neonatal inflammation could induce susceptibility to neurodevelopmental disorders through modification of hippocampal gliovascular interface in a sex-dependent manner.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Ardalan
- Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Translational Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
- *Maryam Ardalan,
| | - Tetyana Chumak
- Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Alexandra Quist
- Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Seyedeh Marziyeh Jabbari Shiadeh
- Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Translational Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Anna-Jean Mallard
- Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Ali Hoseinpoor Rafati
- Translational Neuropsychiatry Unit, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Carina Mallard
- Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Conti E, Scaffei E, Bosetti C, Marchi V, Costanzo V, Dell’Oste V, Mazziotti R, Dell’Osso L, Carmassi C, Muratori F, Baroncelli L, Calderoni S, Battini R. Looking for “fNIRS Signature” in Autism Spectrum: A Systematic Review Starting From Preschoolers. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:785993. [PMID: 35341016 PMCID: PMC8948464 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.785993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Accepted: 02/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Accumulating evidence suggests that functional Near-Infrared Spectroscopy (fNIRS) can provide an essential bridge between our current understanding of neural circuit organization and cortical activity in the developing brain. Indeed, fNIRS allows studying brain functions through the measurement of neurovascular coupling that links neural activity to subsequent changes in cerebral blood flow and hemoglobin oxygenation levels. While the literature offers a multitude of fNIRS applications to typical development, only recently this tool has been extended to the study of neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs). The exponential rise of scientific publications on this topic during the last years reflects the interest to identify a “fNIRS signature” as a biomarker of high translational value to support both early clinical diagnosis and treatment outcome. The purpose of this systematic review is to describe the updating clinical applications of fNIRS in NDDs, with a specific focus on preschool population. Starting from this rationale, a systematic search was conducted for relevant studies in different scientific databases (Pubmed, Scopus, and Web of Science) resulting in 13 published articles. In these studies, fNIRS was applied in individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) or infants at high risk of developing ASD. Both functional connectivity in resting-state conditions and task-evoked brain activation using multiple experimental paradigms were used in the selected investigations, suggesting that fNIRS might be considered a promising method for identifying early quantitative biomarkers in the autism field.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eugenia Conti
- Department of Developmental Neuroscience, IRCCS Stella Maris Foundation, Pisa, Italy
| | - Elena Scaffei
- Department of Developmental Neuroscience, IRCCS Stella Maris Foundation, Pisa, Italy
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health NEUROFARBA, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
- *Correspondence: Elena Scaffei,
| | - Chiara Bosetti
- Department of Developmental Neuroscience, IRCCS Stella Maris Foundation, Pisa, Italy
| | - Viviana Marchi
- Department of Developmental Neuroscience, IRCCS Stella Maris Foundation, Pisa, Italy
| | - Valeria Costanzo
- Department of Developmental Neuroscience, IRCCS Stella Maris Foundation, Pisa, Italy
| | - Valerio Dell’Oste
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Raffaele Mazziotti
- Department of Developmental Neuroscience, IRCCS Stella Maris Foundation, Pisa, Italy
| | - Liliana Dell’Osso
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Claudia Carmassi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Filippo Muratori
- Department of Developmental Neuroscience, IRCCS Stella Maris Foundation, Pisa, Italy
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Laura Baroncelli
- Department of Developmental Neuroscience, IRCCS Stella Maris Foundation, Pisa, Italy
- Institute of Neuroscience, National Research Council, Pisa, Italy
| | - Sara Calderoni
- Department of Developmental Neuroscience, IRCCS Stella Maris Foundation, Pisa, Italy
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Roberta Battini
- Department of Developmental Neuroscience, IRCCS Stella Maris Foundation, Pisa, Italy
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Vakilzadeh G, Falcone C, Dufour B, Hong T, Noctor SC, Martínez-Cerdeño V. Decreased number and increased activation state of astrocytes in gray and white matter of the prefrontal cortex in autism. Cereb Cortex 2022; 32:4902-4912. [PMID: 35212358 PMCID: PMC9627019 DOI: 10.1093/cercor/bhab523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Revised: 12/16/2021] [Accepted: 12/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The cerebral cortex presents with alterations in the number of specific cell types in autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Astrocytes have many functions in the brain including a role in higher cognitive functions and in inflammatory brain processes. Therefore, an alteration in number, function, and/or activation state of astrocytes, could be present in ASD. We quantified astrocyte number in the gray and white matter of the prefrontal cortex-BA9, BA46, and BA47-in 15 ASD and 15 age- and sex-matched control cases. We labeled astrocytes with antibodies against the protein GFAP and S100β, markers of astrocytes. We found a significant decrease in the number of astrocytes in the gray and white matter of all prefrontal areas of interest with both markers. We also found an increased state of activation of GFAP+ astrocytes in all areas. A reduced number of astrocytes in the cerebral cortex in ASD could lead to impaired synaptic function and disrupted connectivity. An increased astrocyte activation may indicate a chronic mild inflammatory state of the cerebral cortex in ASD. Overall, we found that astrocytes are disrupted in ASD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gelareh Vakilzadeh
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, UC Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA,Institute for Pediatric Regenerative Medicine and Shriners Hospitals for Children Northern California, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA
| | - Carmen Falcone
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, UC Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA,Institute for Pediatric Regenerative Medicine and Shriners Hospitals for Children Northern California, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA
| | - Brett Dufour
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, UC Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA,Institute for Pediatric Regenerative Medicine and Shriners Hospitals for Children Northern California, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA
| | - Tiffany Hong
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, UC Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA,Institute for Pediatric Regenerative Medicine and Shriners Hospitals for Children Northern California, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA
| | - Stephen C Noctor
- MIND Institute, UC Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Science, UC Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA
| | - Verónica Martínez-Cerdeño
- Address correspondence to Verónica Martínez-Cerdeño, 2425 Stockton Boulevard, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Poleg S, Kourieh E, Ruban A, Shapira G, Shomron N, Barak B, Offen D. Behavioral aspects and neurobiological properties underlying medical cannabis treatment in Shank3 mouse model of autism spectrum disorder. Transl Psychiatry 2021; 11:524. [PMID: 34645786 PMCID: PMC8514476 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-021-01612-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2020] [Revised: 07/16/2021] [Accepted: 08/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disease with a wide spectrum of manifestation. The core symptoms of ASD are persistent deficits in social communication, and restricted and repetitive patterns of behavior, interests, or activities. These are often accompanied by intellectual disabilities. At present, there is no designated effective treatment for the core symptoms and co-morbidities of ASD. Recently, interest is rising in medical cannabis as a treatment for ASD, with promising clinical data. However, there is a notable absence of basic pre-clinical research in this field. In this study, we investigate the behavioral and biochemical effects of long-term oral treatment with CBD-enriched medical cannabis oil in a human mutation-based Shank3 mouse model of ASD. Our findings show that this treatment alleviates anxiety and decreases repetitive grooming behavior by over 70% in treated mutant mice compared to non-treated mutant mice. Furthermore, we were able to uncover the involvement of CB1 receptor (CB1R) signaling in the Avidekel oil mechanism, alongside a mitigation of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) glutamate concentrations. Subsequently, RNA sequencing (RNA seq) of cerebellar brain samples revealed changes in mRNA expression of several neurotransmission-related genes post-treatment. Finally, our results question the relevancy of CBD enrichment of medical cannabis for treating the core symptoms of ASD, and emphasize the importance of the THC component for alleviating deficits in repetitive and social behaviors in ASD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shani Poleg
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Human Molecular Genetics & Biochemistry, Felsenstein Medical Research Center, Tel-Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Emad Kourieh
- The George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Angela Ruban
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Guy Shapira
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Noam Shomron
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Boaz Barak
- Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel-Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
- The School of Psychological Sciences, Faculty of Social Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Daniel Offen
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Human Molecular Genetics & Biochemistry, Felsenstein Medical Research Center, Tel-Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel.
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel.
- Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel-Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel.
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Mahony C, O’Ryan C. Convergent Canonical Pathways in Autism Spectrum Disorder from Proteomic, Transcriptomic and DNA Methylation Data. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms221910757. [PMID: 34639097 PMCID: PMC8509728 DOI: 10.3390/ijms221910757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2021] [Revised: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 10/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder with extensive genetic and aetiological heterogeneity. While the underlying molecular mechanisms involved remain unclear, significant progress has been facilitated by recent advances in high-throughput transcriptomic, epigenomic and proteomic technologies. Here, we review recently published ASD proteomic data and compare proteomic functional enrichment signatures with those of transcriptomic and epigenomic data. We identify canonical pathways that are consistently implicated in ASD molecular data and find an enrichment of pathways involved in mitochondrial metabolism and neurogenesis. We identify a subset of differentially expressed proteins that are supported by ASD transcriptomic and DNA methylation data. Furthermore, these differentially expressed proteins are enriched for disease phenotype pathways associated with ASD aetiology. These proteins converge on protein–protein interaction networks that regulate cell proliferation and differentiation, metabolism, and inflammation, which demonstrates a link between canonical pathways, biological processes and the ASD phenotype. This review highlights how proteomics can uncover potential molecular mechanisms to explain a link between mitochondrial dysfunction and neurodevelopmental pathology.
Collapse
|
25
|
Soria-Ortiz MB, Reyes-Ortega P, Martínez-Torres A, Reyes-Haro D. A Functional Signature in the Developing Cerebellum: Evidence From a Preclinical Model of Autism. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:727079. [PMID: 34540842 PMCID: PMC8448387 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.727079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2021] [Accepted: 08/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are pervasive neurodevelopmental conditions detected during childhood when delayed language onset and social deficits are observed. Children diagnosed with ASD frequently display sensorimotor deficits associated with the cerebellum, suggesting a dysfunction of synaptic circuits. Astroglia are part of the tripartite synapses and postmortem studies reported an increased expression of the glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) in the cerebellum of ASD patients. Astroglia respond to neuronal activity with calcium transients that propagate to neighboring cells, resulting in a functional response known as a calcium wave. This form of intercellular signaling is implicated in proliferation, migration, and differentiation of neural precursors. Prenatal exposure to valproate (VPA) is a preclinical model of ASD in which premature migration and excess of apoptosis occur in the internal granular layer (IGL) of the cerebellum during the early postnatal period. In this study we tested calcium wave propagation in the IGL of mice prenatally exposed to VPA. Sensorimotor deficits were observed and IGL depolarization evoked a calcium wave with astrocyte recruitment. The calcium wave propagation, initial cell recruitment, and mean amplitude of the calcium transients increased significantly in VPA-exposed mice compared to the control group. Astrocyte recruitment was significantly increased in the VPA model, but the mean amplitude of the calcium transients was unchanged. Western blot and histological studies revealed an increased expression of GFAP, higher astroglial density and augmented morphological complexity. We conclude that the functional signature of the IGL is remarkably augmented in the preclinical model of autism.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- María Berenice Soria-Ortiz
- Departamento de Neurobiología Celular y Molecular, Instituto de Neurobiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México-Campus Juriquilla, Querétaro, Mexico
| | - Pamela Reyes-Ortega
- Departamento de Neurobiología Celular y Molecular, Instituto de Neurobiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México-Campus Juriquilla, Querétaro, Mexico
| | - Ataúlfo Martínez-Torres
- Departamento de Neurobiología Celular y Molecular, Instituto de Neurobiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México-Campus Juriquilla, Querétaro, Mexico
| | - Daniel Reyes-Haro
- Departamento de Neurobiología Celular y Molecular, Instituto de Neurobiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México-Campus Juriquilla, Querétaro, Mexico
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Chen J, Ma XL, Zhao H, Wang XY, Xu MX, Wang H, Yang TQ, Peng C, Liu SS, Huang M, Zhou YD, Shen Y. Increasing astrogenesis in the developing hippocampus induces autistic-like behavior in mice via enhancing inhibitory synaptic transmission. Glia 2021; 70:106-122. [PMID: 34498776 PMCID: PMC9291003 DOI: 10.1002/glia.24091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2021] [Revised: 08/09/2021] [Accepted: 08/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a heterogeneous neurodevelopmental disorder characterized primarily by impaired social communication and rigid, repetitive, and stereotyped behaviors. Many studies implicate abnormal synapse development and the resultant abnormalities in synaptic excitatory–inhibitory (E/I) balance may underlie many features of the disease, suggesting aberrant neuronal connections and networks are prone to occur in the developing autistic brain. Astrocytes are crucial for synaptic formation and function, and defects in astrocytic activation and function during a critical developmental period may also contribute to the pathogenesis of ASD. Here, we report that increasing hippocampal astrogenesis during development induces autistic‐like behavior in mice and a concurrent decreased E/I ratio in the hippocampus that results from enhanced GABAergic transmission in CA1 pyramidal neurons. Suppressing the aberrantly elevated GABAergic synaptic transmission in hippocampal CA1 area rescues autistic‐like behavior and restores the E/I balance. Thus, we provide direct evidence for a developmental role of astrocytes in driving the behavioral phenotypes of ASD, and our results support that targeting the altered GABAergic neurotransmission may represent a promising therapeutic strategy for ASD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Juan Chen
- Department of Neurobiology and Department of General Intensive Care Unit of the Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiao-Lin Ma
- Department of Neurobiology and Department of Ophthalmology of the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.,NHC and CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, MOE Frontier Science Center for Brain Research and Brain-Machine Integration, School of Brain Science and Brain Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Hui Zhao
- Department of Neurobiology and Department of General Intensive Care Unit of the Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.,NHC and CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, MOE Frontier Science Center for Brain Research and Brain-Machine Integration, School of Brain Science and Brain Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiao-Yu Wang
- Department of Neurobiology and Department of Ophthalmology of the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.,NHC and CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, MOE Frontier Science Center for Brain Research and Brain-Machine Integration, School of Brain Science and Brain Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Min-Xin Xu
- Department of Neurobiology and Department of General Intensive Care Unit of the Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.,NHC and CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, MOE Frontier Science Center for Brain Research and Brain-Machine Integration, School of Brain Science and Brain Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Hua Wang
- Department of Neurobiology and Department of Ophthalmology of the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.,NHC and CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, MOE Frontier Science Center for Brain Research and Brain-Machine Integration, School of Brain Science and Brain Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Tian-Qi Yang
- Department of Neurobiology and Department of General Intensive Care Unit of the Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.,NHC and CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, MOE Frontier Science Center for Brain Research and Brain-Machine Integration, School of Brain Science and Brain Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Cheng Peng
- Department of Neurobiology and Department of Ophthalmology of the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.,NHC and CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, MOE Frontier Science Center for Brain Research and Brain-Machine Integration, School of Brain Science and Brain Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Shuang-Shuang Liu
- Core Facilities, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Man Huang
- Department of General Intensive Care Unit of the Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yu-Dong Zhou
- Department of Neurobiology and Department of Ophthalmology of the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.,NHC and CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, MOE Frontier Science Center for Brain Research and Brain-Machine Integration, School of Brain Science and Brain Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.,Department of Pharmacology, Zhejiang University City College School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yi Shen
- Department of Neurobiology and Department of General Intensive Care Unit of the Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.,NHC and CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, MOE Frontier Science Center for Brain Research and Brain-Machine Integration, School of Brain Science and Brain Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.,National Human Brain Bank for Health and Disease, Hangzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Traetta ME, Uccelli NA, Zárate SC, Gómez Cuautle D, Ramos AJ, Reinés A. Long-Lasting Changes in Glial Cells Isolated From Rats Subjected to the Valproic Acid Model of Autism Spectrum Disorder. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:707859. [PMID: 34421599 PMCID: PMC8374432 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.707859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2021] [Accepted: 06/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Synaptic alterations concomitant with neuroinflammation have been described in patients and experimental models of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). However, the role of microglia and astroglia in relation to synaptic changes is poorly understood. Male Wistar rats prenatally exposed to valproic acid (VPA, 450 mg/kg, i.p.) or saline (control) at embryonic day 10.5 were used to study synapses, microglia, and astroglia in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) at postnatal days 3 and 35 (PND3 and PND35). Primary cultures of cortical neurons, microglia, and astroglia isolated from control and VPA animals were used to study each cell type individually, neuron-microglia and microglia-astroglia crosstalk. In the PFC of VPA rats, synaptic changes characterized by an increase in the number of excitatory synapses were evidenced at PND3 and persisted until PND35. At PND3, microglia and astroglia from VPA animals were morphologically similar to those of age-matched controls, whereas at PND35, reactive microgliosis and astrogliosis were observed in the PFC of VPA animals. Cortical neurons isolated from VPA rats mimicked in vitro the synaptic pattern seen in vivo. Cortical microglia and astroglia isolated from VPA animals exhibited reactive morphology, increased pro-inflammatory cytokines, and a compromised miRNA processing machinery. Microglia from VPA animals also showed resistance to a phagocytic challenge. In the presence of neurons from VPA animals, microglia isolated from VPA rats revealed a non-reactive morphology and promoted neurite outgrowth, while microglia from control animals displayed a reactive profile and promoted dendritic retraction. In microglia-astroglia co-cultures, microglia from VPA animals displayed a reactive profile and exacerbated astrocyte reactivity. Our study indicates that cortical microglia from VPA animals are insensitive or adapted to neuronal cues expressed by neurons from VPA animals. Further, long-term in vivo microgliosis could be the result of altered microglia-astroglia crosstalk in VPA animals. Thus, our study highlights cortical microglia-astroglia communication as a new mechanism implicated in neuroinflammation in ASD; consequently, we propose that this crosstalk is a potential target for interventions in this disorder.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marianela Evelyn Traetta
- Instituto de Biología Celular y Neurociencia "Prof. E. De Robertis" (IBCN), CONICET - Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Cátedra de Farmacología, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Nonthué Alejandra Uccelli
- Instituto de Biología Celular y Neurociencia "Prof. E. De Robertis" (IBCN), CONICET - Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Sandra Cristina Zárate
- Facultad de Medicina, Departamento de Histología, Embriología, Biología Celular y Genética, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED), CONICET - Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Dante Gómez Cuautle
- Instituto de Biología Celular y Neurociencia "Prof. E. De Robertis" (IBCN), CONICET - Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Alberto Javier Ramos
- Instituto de Biología Celular y Neurociencia "Prof. E. De Robertis" (IBCN), CONICET - Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Facultad de Medicina, Departamento de Histología, Embriología, Biología Celular y Genética, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Analía Reinés
- Instituto de Biología Celular y Neurociencia "Prof. E. De Robertis" (IBCN), CONICET - Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Cátedra de Farmacología, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Baj J, Flieger W, Flieger M, Forma A, Sitarz E, Skórzyńska-Dziduszko K, Grochowski C, Maciejewski R, Karakuła-Juchnowicz H. Autism spectrum disorder: Trace elements imbalances and the pathogenesis and severity of autistic symptoms. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2021; 129:117-132. [PMID: 34339708 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2021.07.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2020] [Revised: 07/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The identification of biomarkers as diagnostic tools and predictors of response to treatment of neurological developmental disorders (NDD) such as schizophrenia (SZ), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), or autism spectrum disorder (ASD), still remains an important challenge for clinical medicine. Metallomic profiles of ASD patients cover, besides essential elements such as cobalt, chromium, copper, iron, manganese, molybdenum, zinc, selenium, also toxic metals burden of: aluminum, arsenic, mercury, lead, beryllium, nickel, cadmium. Performed studies indicate that children with ASD present a reduced ability of eliminating toxic metals, which leads to these metals' accumulation and aggravation of autistic symptoms. Extensive metallomic studies allow a better understanding of the importance of trace elements as environmental factors in the pathogenesis of ASD. Even though a mineral imbalance is a fact in ASD, we are still expecting relevant tests and the elaboration of reference levels of trace elements as potential biomarkers useful in diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of ASD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jacek Baj
- Department of Anatomy, Medical University of Lublin, Jaczewskiego Street 8b, 20-400, Lublin, Poland.
| | - Wojciech Flieger
- Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Lublin, Aleje Racławickie 1, 20-059, Lublin, Poland
| | - Michał Flieger
- Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Lublin, Aleje Racławickie 1, 20-059, Lublin, Poland
| | - Alicja Forma
- Chair and Department of Forensic Medicine, Medical University of Lublin, Jaczewskiego Street 8b, 20-090, Lublin, Poland
| | - Elżbieta Sitarz
- Chair and 1st Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Early Intervention, Medical University of Lublin, Gluska Street 1, 20-439, Lublin, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Skórzyńska-Dziduszko
- Chair and Department of Human Physiology, Medical University of Lublin, Radziwillowska Street 11, Lublin, 20-080, Poland
| | - Cezary Grochowski
- Laboratory of Virtual Man, Chair of Anatomy, Medical University of Lublin, Jaczewskiego Street 8b, 20-400, Lublin, Poland
| | - Ryszard Maciejewski
- Department of Anatomy, Medical University of Lublin, Jaczewskiego Street 8b, 20-400, Lublin, Poland
| | - Hanna Karakuła-Juchnowicz
- Chair and 1st Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Early Intervention, Medical University of Lublin, Gluska Street 1, 20-439, Lublin, Poland; Department of Clinical Neuropsychiatry, Medical University of Lublin, Gluska Street 1, 20-439, Lublin, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Fetit R, Hillary RF, Price DJ, Lawrie SM. The neuropathology of autism: A systematic review of post-mortem studies of autism and related disorders. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2021; 129:35-62. [PMID: 34273379 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2021.07.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2021] [Revised: 05/13/2021] [Accepted: 07/10/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Post-mortem studies allow for the direct investigation of brain tissue in those with autism and related disorders. Several review articles have focused on aspects of post-mortem abnormalities but none has brought together the entire post-mortem literature. Here, we systematically review the evidence from post-mortem studies of autism, and of related disorders that present with autistic features. The literature consists of a small body of studies with small sample sizes, but several remarkably consistent findings are evident. Cortical layering is largely undisturbed, but there are consistent reductions in minicolumn numbers and aberrant myelination. Transcriptomics repeatedly implicate abberant synaptic, metabolic, proliferation, apoptosis and immune pathways. Sufficient replicated evidence is available to implicate non-coding RNA, aberrant epigenetic profiles, GABAergic, glutamatergic and glial dysfunction in autism pathogenesis. Overall, the cerebellum and frontal cortex are most consistently implicated, sometimes revealing distinct region-specific alterations. The literature on related disorders such as Rett syndrome, Fragile X and copy number variations (CNVs) predisposing to autism is particularly small and inconclusive. Larger studies, matched for gender, developmental stage, co-morbidities and drug treatment are required.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rana Fetit
- Simons Initiative for the Developing Brain, University of Edinburgh, Hugh Robson Building, George Square, Edinburgh, EH8 9XD, UK.
| | - Robert F Hillary
- Centre for Genomic and Experimental Medicine, Institute of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH4 2XU, UK
| | - David J Price
- Simons Initiative for the Developing Brain, University of Edinburgh, Hugh Robson Building, George Square, Edinburgh, EH8 9XD, UK
| | - Stephen M Lawrie
- Division of Psychiatry, Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH10 5HF, UK; Patrick Wild Centre, Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH10 5HF, UK
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Deckmann I, Santos-Terra J, Fontes-Dutra M, Körbes-Rockenbach M, Bauer-Negrini G, Schwingel GB, Riesgo R, Bambini-Junior V, Gottfried C. Resveratrol prevents brain edema, blood-brain barrier permeability, and altered aquaporin profile in autism animal model. Int J Dev Neurosci 2021; 81:579-604. [PMID: 34196408 DOI: 10.1002/jdn.10137] [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: 05/11/2021] [Revised: 06/08/2021] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder can present a plethora of clinical conditions associated with the disorder, such as greater brain volume in the first years of life in a significant percentage of patients. We aimed to evaluate the brain water content, the blood-brain barrier permeability, and the expression of aquaporin 1 and 4, and GFAP in a valproic acid-animal model, assessing the effect of resveratrol. On postnatal day 30, Wistar rats of the valproic acid group showed greater permeability of the blood-brain barrier to the Evans blue dye and a higher proportion of brain water volume, prevented both by resveratrol. Prenatal exposition to valproic acid diminished aquaporin 1 in the choroid plexus, in the primary somatosensory area, in the amygdala region, and in the medial prefrontal cortex, reduced aquaporin 4 in medial prefrontal cortex and increased aquaporin 4 levels in primary somatosensory area (with resveratrol prevention). Valproic acid exposition also increased the number of astrocytes and GFAP fluorescence in both primary somatosensory area and medial prefrontal cortex. In medial prefrontal cortex, resveratrol prevented the increased fluorescence. Finally, there was an effect of resveratrol per se on the number of astrocytes and GFAP fluorescence in the amygdala region and in the hippocampus. Thus, this work demonstrates significant changes in blood-brain barrier permeability, edema formation, distribution of aquaporin 1 and 4, in addition to astrocytes profile in the animal model of autism, as well as the use of resveratrol as a tool to investigate the mechanisms involved in the pathophysiology of autism spectrum disorder.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Iohanna Deckmann
- Translational Research Group in Autism Spectrum Disorder - GETTEA, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, Brazil.,Department of Biochemistry, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, Brazil.,National Institute of Science and Technology in Neuroimmunomodulation - INCT-NIM, Porto Alegre, Brazil.,Autism Wellbeing and Research Development - AWARD - Initiative BR-UK-CA, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, UK
| | - Júlio Santos-Terra
- Translational Research Group in Autism Spectrum Disorder - GETTEA, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, Brazil.,Department of Biochemistry, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, Brazil.,National Institute of Science and Technology in Neuroimmunomodulation - INCT-NIM, Porto Alegre, Brazil.,Autism Wellbeing and Research Development - AWARD - Initiative BR-UK-CA, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, UK
| | - Mellanie Fontes-Dutra
- Translational Research Group in Autism Spectrum Disorder - GETTEA, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, Brazil.,Department of Biochemistry, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, Brazil.,National Institute of Science and Technology in Neuroimmunomodulation - INCT-NIM, Porto Alegre, Brazil.,Autism Wellbeing and Research Development - AWARD - Initiative BR-UK-CA, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, UK
| | - Marília Körbes-Rockenbach
- Translational Research Group in Autism Spectrum Disorder - GETTEA, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, Brazil.,Department of Biochemistry, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, Brazil.,National Institute of Science and Technology in Neuroimmunomodulation - INCT-NIM, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Guilherme Bauer-Negrini
- Translational Research Group in Autism Spectrum Disorder - GETTEA, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, Brazil.,Department of Biochemistry, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, Brazil.,National Institute of Science and Technology in Neuroimmunomodulation - INCT-NIM, Porto Alegre, Brazil.,Autism Wellbeing and Research Development - AWARD - Initiative BR-UK-CA, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, UK
| | - Gustavo Brum Schwingel
- Translational Research Group in Autism Spectrum Disorder - GETTEA, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, Brazil.,Department of Biochemistry, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, Brazil.,National Institute of Science and Technology in Neuroimmunomodulation - INCT-NIM, Porto Alegre, Brazil.,Autism Wellbeing and Research Development - AWARD - Initiative BR-UK-CA, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, UK
| | - Rudimar Riesgo
- Translational Research Group in Autism Spectrum Disorder - GETTEA, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, Brazil.,National Institute of Science and Technology in Neuroimmunomodulation - INCT-NIM, Porto Alegre, Brazil.,Autism Wellbeing and Research Development - AWARD - Initiative BR-UK-CA, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, UK.,Department of Pediatrics, Child Neurology Unit, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Victorio Bambini-Junior
- Translational Research Group in Autism Spectrum Disorder - GETTEA, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, Brazil.,National Institute of Science and Technology in Neuroimmunomodulation - INCT-NIM, Porto Alegre, Brazil.,Autism Wellbeing and Research Development - AWARD - Initiative BR-UK-CA, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, UK.,School of Pharmacology and Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, UK
| | - Carmem Gottfried
- Translational Research Group in Autism Spectrum Disorder - GETTEA, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, Brazil.,Department of Biochemistry, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, Brazil.,National Institute of Science and Technology in Neuroimmunomodulation - INCT-NIM, Porto Alegre, Brazil.,Autism Wellbeing and Research Development - AWARD - Initiative BR-UK-CA, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, UK
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Impaired calcium signaling in astrocytes modulates autism spectrum disorder-like behaviors in mice. Nat Commun 2021; 12:3321. [PMID: 34059669 PMCID: PMC8166865 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-23843-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2019] [Accepted: 03/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a common neurodevelopmental disorder. The mechanisms underlying ASD are unclear. Astrocyte alterations are noted in ASD patients and animal models. However, whether astrocyte dysfunction is causal or consequential to ASD-like phenotypes in mice is unresolved. Type 2 inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate 6 receptors (IP3R2)-mediated Ca2+ release from intracellular Ca2+ stores results in the activation of astrocytes. Mutations of the IP3R2 gene are associated with ASD. Here, we show that both IP3R2-null mutant mice and astrocyte-specific IP3R2 conditional knockout mice display ASD-like behaviors, such as atypical social interaction and repetitive behavior. Furthermore, we show that astrocyte-derived ATP modulates ASD-like behavior through the P2X2 receptors in the prefrontal cortex and possibly through GABAergic synaptic transmission. These findings identify astrocyte-derived ATP as a potential molecular player in the pathophysiology of ASD. Astrocytes contribute to autism spectrum disorder (ASD) pathophysiology. Here, the authors show that IP3R2 conditional KO mice show ASD-like behaviours and identify astrocyte-derived ATP as a modulator of these behaviours in mice.
Collapse
|
32
|
Okada M. Can rodent models elucidate the pathomechanisms of genetic epilepsy? Br J Pharmacol 2021; 179:1620-1639. [PMID: 33689168 PMCID: PMC9291625 DOI: 10.1111/bph.15443] [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: 11/26/2020] [Revised: 02/03/2021] [Accepted: 03/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Autosomal dominant sleep-related hypermotor epilepsy (ADSHE; previously autosomal dominant nocturnal frontal lobe epilepsy, ADNFLE), originally reported in 1994, was the first distinct genetic epilepsy shown to be caused by CHNRA4 mutation. In the past two decades, we have identified several functional abnormalities of mutant ion channels and their associated transmissions using several experiments involving single-cell and genetic animal (rodent) models. Currently, epileptologists understand that functional abnormalities underlying epileptogenesis/ictogenesis in humans and rodents are more complicated than previously believed and that the function of mutant molecules alone cannot contribute to the development of epileptogenesis/ictogenesis but play important roles in the development of epileptogenesis/ictogenesis through formation of abnormalities in various other transmission systems before epilepsy onset. Based on our recent findings using genetic rat ADSHE models, harbouring Chrna4 mutant, corresponding to human S284L-mutant CRHNA4, this review proposes a hypothesis associated with tripartite synaptic transmission in ADSHE pathomechanisms induced by mutant ACh receptors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Motohiro Okada
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Division of Neuroscience, Graduate School of Medicine, Mie University, Tsu, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Mossink B, Negwer M, Schubert D, Nadif Kasri N. The emerging role of chromatin remodelers in neurodevelopmental disorders: a developmental perspective. Cell Mol Life Sci 2021; 78:2517-2563. [PMID: 33263776 PMCID: PMC8004494 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-020-03714-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2020] [Revised: 11/04/2020] [Accepted: 11/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs), including intellectual disability (ID) and autism spectrum disorders (ASD), are a large group of disorders in which early insults during brain development result in a wide and heterogeneous spectrum of clinical diagnoses. Mutations in genes coding for chromatin remodelers are overrepresented in NDD cohorts, pointing towards epigenetics as a convergent pathogenic pathway between these disorders. In this review we detail the role of NDD-associated chromatin remodelers during the developmental continuum of progenitor expansion, differentiation, cell-type specification, migration and maturation. We discuss how defects in chromatin remodelling during these early developmental time points compound over time and result in impaired brain circuit establishment. In particular, we focus on their role in the three largest cell populations: glutamatergic neurons, GABAergic neurons, and glia cells. An in-depth understanding of the spatiotemporal role of chromatin remodelers during neurodevelopment can contribute to the identification of molecular targets for treatment strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Britt Mossink
- Department of Human Genetics, Radboudumc, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Geert Grooteplein 10, P.O. Box 9101, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Department of Cognitive Neuroscience, Radboudumc, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Moritz Negwer
- Department of Human Genetics, Radboudumc, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Geert Grooteplein 10, P.O. Box 9101, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Department of Cognitive Neuroscience, Radboudumc, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Dirk Schubert
- Department of Cognitive Neuroscience, Radboudumc, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Nael Nadif Kasri
- Department of Human Genetics, Radboudumc, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Geert Grooteplein 10, P.O. Box 9101, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
- Department of Cognitive Neuroscience, Radboudumc, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Rurak GM, Woodside B, Aguilar-Valles A, Salmaso N. Astroglial cells as neuroendocrine targets in forebrain development: Implications for sex differences in psychiatric disease. Front Neuroendocrinol 2021; 60:100897. [PMID: 33359797 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2020.100897] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2020] [Revised: 12/05/2020] [Accepted: 12/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Astroglial cells are the most abundant cell type in the mammalian brain. They are implicated in almost every aspect of brain physiology, including maintaining homeostasis, building and maintaining the blood brain barrier, and the development and maturation of neuronal networks. Critically, astroglia also express receptors for gonadal sex hormones, respond rapidly to gonadal hormones, and are able to synthesize hormones. Thus, they are positioned to guide and mediate sexual differentiation of the brain, particularly neuronal networks in typical and pathological conditions. In this review, we describe astroglial involvement in the organization and development of the brain, and consider known sex differences in astroglial responses to understand how astroglial cell-mediated organization may play a role in forebrain sexual dimorphisms in human populations. Finally, we consider how sexually dimorphic astroglial responses and functions in development may lead to sex differences in vulnerability for neuropsychiatric disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gareth M Rurak
- Department of Neuroscience, Carleton University, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Barbara Woodside
- Department of Neuroscience, Carleton University, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada; Concordia University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | | | - Natalina Salmaso
- Department of Neuroscience, Carleton University, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Mesnil M, Defamie N, Naus C, Sarrouilhe D. Brain Disorders and Chemical Pollutants: A Gap Junction Link? Biomolecules 2020; 11:biom11010051. [PMID: 33396565 PMCID: PMC7824109 DOI: 10.3390/biom11010051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2020] [Revised: 12/22/2020] [Accepted: 12/23/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The incidence of brain pathologies has increased during last decades. Better diagnosis (autism spectrum disorders) and longer life expectancy (Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease) partly explain this increase, while emerging data suggest pollutant exposures as a possible but still underestimated cause of major brain disorders. Taking into account that the brain parenchyma is rich in gap junctions and that most pollutants inhibit their function; brain disorders might be the consequence of gap-junctional alterations due to long-term exposures to pollutants. In this article, this hypothesis is addressed through three complementary aspects: (1) the gap-junctional organization and connexin expression in brain parenchyma and their function; (2) the effect of major pollutants (pesticides, bisphenol A, phthalates, heavy metals, airborne particles, etc.) on gap-junctional and connexin functions; (3) a description of the major brain disorders categorized as neurodevelopmental (autism spectrum disorders, attention deficit hyperactivity disorders, epilepsy), neurobehavioral (migraines, major depressive disorders), neurodegenerative (Parkinson's and Alzheimer's diseases) and cancers (glioma), in which both connexin dysfunction and pollutant involvement have been described. Based on these different aspects, the possible involvement of pollutant-inhibited gap junctions in brain disorders is discussed for prenatal and postnatal exposures.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marc Mesnil
- Laboratoire STIM, ERL7003 CNRS-Université de Poitiers, 1 rue G. Bonnet–TSA 51 106, 86073 Poitiers, France; (M.M.); (N.D.)
| | - Norah Defamie
- Laboratoire STIM, ERL7003 CNRS-Université de Poitiers, 1 rue G. Bonnet–TSA 51 106, 86073 Poitiers, France; (M.M.); (N.D.)
| | - Christian Naus
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Cellular & Physiological Sciences, Life Sciences Institute, University of British Columbia, 2350 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T1Z3, Canada;
| | - Denis Sarrouilhe
- Laboratoire de Physiologie Humaine, Faculté de Médecine et Pharmacie, 6 rue de La Milétrie, bât D1, TSA 51115, 86073 Poitiers, France
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +33-5-49-45-43-58
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Expression of Connexins 37, 43 and 45 in Developing Human Spinal Cord and Ganglia. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21249356. [PMID: 33302507 PMCID: PMC7770599 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21249356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2020] [Revised: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 12/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Direct intercellular communication via gap junctions has an important role in the development of the nervous system, ranging from cell migration and neuronal differentiation to the formation of neuronal activity patterns. This study characterized and compared the specific spatio-temporal expression patterns of connexins (Cxs) 37, 43 and 45 during early human developmental stages (since the 5th until the 10th developmental week) in the spinal cord (SC) and dorsal root ganglia (DRG) using double immunofluorescence and transmission electron microscopy. We found the expression of all three investigated Cxs during early human development in all the areas of interest, in the SC, DRG, developing paravertebral ganglia of the sympathetic trunk, notochord and all three meningeal layers, with predominant expression of Cx37. Comparing the expression of different Cxs between distinct developmental periods, we did not find significant differences. Specific spatio-temporal pattern of Cxs expression might reflect their relevance in the development of all areas of interest via cellular interconnectivity and synchronization during the late embryonic and early fetal period of human development.
Collapse
|
37
|
Roman C, Egert L, Di Benedetto B. Astrocytic-neuronal crosstalk gets jammed: Alternative perspectives on the onset of neuropsychiatric disorders. Eur J Neurosci 2020; 54:5717-5729. [PMID: 32644273 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.14900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2020] [Revised: 06/09/2020] [Accepted: 07/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Investigating interactions of glia cells and synapses during development and in adulthood is the focus of several research programmes which aim at understanding the neurobiology of brain physiological and pathological processes. Both glia-specific released and membrane-bound proteins play essential roles in the development, maintenance and functionality of synaptic connections. Alterations in synaptic contacts in specific brain areas are hallmarks of several brain diseases, such as major depressive disorder, autism spectrum disorder and schizophrenia. Thus, a deeper knowledge about putative astrocyte dysfunctions which might affect the synaptic compartment is warranted to improve treatment options. Here, we present the latest advances about the role of glia cells in orchestrating the arrangement of synapses and neuronal networks in physiological and pathological states. We specifically focus on the role of astrocytes in the phagocytosis of neuronal synapses as a novel mechanism which drives the refinement of neuronal circuits and might be affected in pathological conditions. Finally, we propose this astrocyte-dependent mechanism as a putative alternative target of pharmacological interventions for the treatment of brain disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Celia Roman
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Luisa Egert
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Barbara Di Benedetto
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany.,Regensburg Center of Neuroscience, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Postmortem Studies of Neuroinflammation in Autism Spectrum Disorder: a Systematic Review. Mol Neurobiol 2020; 57:3424-3438. [DOI: 10.1007/s12035-020-01976-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2020] [Accepted: 06/02/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
|
39
|
The role of neuroglia in autism spectrum disorders. PROGRESS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE 2020; 173:301-330. [PMID: 32711814 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pmbts.2020.04.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Neuroglia are a large class of neural cells of ectodermal (astroglia, oligodendroglia, and peripheral glial cells) and mesodermal (microglia) origin. Neuroglial cells provide homeostatic support, protection, and defense to the nervous tissue. Pathological potential of neuroglia has been acknowledged since their discovery. Research of the recent decade has shown the key role of all classes of glial cells in autism spectrum disorders (ASD), although molecular mechanisms defining glial contribution to ASD are yet to be fully characterized. This narrative conceptualizes recent findings of the broader roles of glial cells, including their active participation in the control of cerebral environment and regulation of synaptic development and scaling, highlighting their putative involvement in the etiopathogenesis of ASD.
Collapse
|
40
|
Al-Haddad BJS, Oler E, Armistead B, Elsayed NA, Weinberger DR, Bernier R, Burd I, Kapur R, Jacobsson B, Wang C, Mysorekar I, Rajagopal L, Adams Waldorf KM. The fetal origins of mental illness. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2019; 221:549-562. [PMID: 31207234 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2019.06.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 159] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2019] [Revised: 06/07/2019] [Accepted: 06/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The impact of infections and inflammation during pregnancy on the developing fetal brain remains incompletely defined, with important clinical and research gaps. Although the classic infectious TORCH pathogens (ie, Toxoplasma gondii, rubella virus, cytomegalovirus [CMV], herpes simplex virus) are known to be directly teratogenic, emerging evidence suggests that these infections represent the most extreme end of a much larger spectrum of injury. We present the accumulating evidence that prenatal exposure to a wide variety of viral and bacterial infections-or simply inflammation-may subtly alter fetal brain development, leading to neuropsychiatric consequences for the child later in life. The link between influenza infections in pregnant women and an increased risk for development of schizophrenia in their children was first described more than 30 years ago. Since then, evidence suggests that a range of infections during pregnancy may also increase risk for autism spectrum disorder and depression in the child. Subsequent studies in animal models demonstrated that both pregnancy infections and inflammation can result in direct injury to neurons and neural progenitor cells or indirect injury through activation of microglia and astrocytes, which can trigger cytokine production and oxidative stress. Infectious exposures can also alter placental serotonin production, which can perturb neurotransmitter signaling in the developing brain. Clinically, detection of these subtle injuries to the fetal brain is difficult. As the neuropsychiatric impact of perinatal infections or inflammation may not be known for decades after birth, our construct for defining teratogenic infections in pregnancy (eg, TORCH) based on congenital anomalies is insufficient to capture the full adverse impact on the child. We discuss the clinical implications of this body of evidence and how we might place greater emphasis on prevention of prenatal infections. For example, increasing uptake of the seasonal influenza vaccine is a key strategy to reduce perinatal infections and the risk for fetal brain injury. An important research gap exists in understanding how antibiotic therapy during pregnancy affects the fetal inflammatory load and how to avoid inflammation-mediated injury to the fetal brain. In summary, we discuss the current evidence and mechanisms linking infections and inflammation with the increased lifelong risk of neuropsychiatric disorders in the child, and how we might improve prenatal care to protect the fetal brain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Elizabeth Oler
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | - Blair Armistead
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington Seattle, WA; Center for Global Infectious Disease Research, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA
| | - Nada A Elsayed
- Integrated Research Center for Fetal Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Daniel R Weinberger
- Lieber Institute for Brain Development, Departments of Psychiatry, Neurology, Neuroscience, and McKusick-Nathans Institute of Genetic Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine Baltimore, MD
| | - Raphael Bernier
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | - Irina Burd
- Integrated Research Center for Fetal Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD; Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Raj Kapur
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington, Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, WA
| | - Bo Jacobsson
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Clinical Science, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden; Region Västra Götaland, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden; Department of Genetics and Bioinformatics, Domain of Health Data and Digitalization, Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
| | - Caihong Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Health Sciences, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO
| | - Indira Mysorekar
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Pathology and Immunology, Center for Reproductive Health Sciences, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO
| | - Lakshmi Rajagopal
- Center for Innate Immunity and Immune Disease, Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA; Center for Global Infectious Disease Research, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA
| | - Kristina M Adams Waldorf
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology and Global Health, Center for Innate Immunity and Immune Disease, Center for Emerging and Reemerging Infectious Diseases, University of Washington, Seattle, WA; Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Yang G, Shcheglovitov A. Probing disrupted neurodevelopment in autism using human stem cell-derived neurons and organoids: An outlook into future diagnostics and drug development. Dev Dyn 2019; 249:6-33. [PMID: 31398277 DOI: 10.1002/dvdy.100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2019] [Revised: 07/23/2019] [Accepted: 07/31/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) represent a spectrum of neurodevelopmental disorders characterized by impaired social interaction, repetitive or restrictive behaviors, and problems with speech. According to a recent report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one in 68 children in the US is diagnosed with ASDs. Although ASD-related diagnostics and the knowledge of ASD-associated genetic abnormalities have improved in recent years, our understanding of the cellular and molecular pathways disrupted in ASD remains very limited. As a result, no specific therapies or medications are available for individuals with ASDs. In this review, we describe the neurodevelopmental processes that are likely affected in the brains of individuals with ASDs and discuss how patient-specific stem cell-derived neurons and organoids can be used for investigating these processes at the cellular and molecular levels. Finally, we propose a discovery pipeline to be used in the future for identifying the cellular and molecular deficits and developing novel personalized therapies for individuals with idiopathic ASDs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Guang Yang
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah.,Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Alex Shcheglovitov
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah.,Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
The possible neuroprotective role of grape seed extract on the histopathological changes of the cerebellar cortex of rats prenatally exposed to Valproic Acid: animal model of autism. Acta Histochem 2019; 121:841-851. [PMID: 31431301 DOI: 10.1016/j.acthis.2019.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2019] [Revised: 08/06/2019] [Accepted: 08/09/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a heterogeneous neurodevelopmental disease characterized by defect in verbal and nonverbal communications. As, the cerebellum has the greatest number of neurons and synapses in the central nervous system so, the cerebellum has emerged as one of the target brain areas affected in autism. The aim of this work was to study the biochemical, immunohistochemical and ultrastructural characteristics of autism and the possible neuroprotective role of grape seed extract. In this study 28 male pups were divided into Control groups; Group I (saline), Group II (GSE 400 mg/kg), Group III (VPA 500 mg/kg) and Group IV (VPA and GSE). Cerebellar hemispheres were dissected out and prepared to determine the oxidative stress markers, histological, immunohistochemical and morphometric study were done. A significant elevation in oxidative stress markers in off spring of VPA treated rats in comparison to control group was detected. A significant decrease in the Purkinje cell count and nuclear size were observed. Numerous shrunken cells with hyperchromatic nuclei and ultrastructural degeneration of cytoplasmic organelles were detected. A significant rise in the area percentage of GFAP-positive immune stained cells in comparison to that of the control groups was seen. Strikingly, GSE revealed significant improvement in the oxidative stress markers and then the histological and morphometric picture of the cerebellum. GSE has neuroprotective effect on the cerebellum of VPA treated rats through its potent antioxidant effect.
Collapse
|
43
|
Hippocampal neurons in direct contact with astrocytes exposed to amyloid β 25-35 exhibit reduced excitatory synaptic transmission. IBRO Rep 2019; 7:34-41. [PMID: 31388597 PMCID: PMC6669318 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibror.2019.07.1719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2019] [Accepted: 07/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
We exposed astrocytes to Aβ 25-35 and then co-cultured them with primary hippocampal neurons. The Aβ25-35-exposed astrocytes lowered excitatory postsynaptic release and the size of the readily releasable synaptic pool. The number of excitatory synapses was reduced by direct contact between Aβ25-35-exposed astrocytes and hippocampal neurons. The dendritic branching was decreased by direct contact between Aβ25-35-exposed astrocytes and hippocampal neurons. The number of excitatory synapses and dendrite branches were conserved by putting distance from Aβ25-35-exposed astrocytes.
Amyloid β protein (Aβ) is closely related to the progression of Alzheimer's disease because senile plaques consisting of Aβ cause synaptic depression and synaptic abnormalities. In the central nervous system, astrocytes are a major glial cell type that contribute to the modulation of synaptic transmission and synaptogenesis. In this study, we examined whether astrocytes exposed to Aβ fragment 25-35 (Aβ25-35) affect synaptic transmission. We show that synaptic transmission by hippocampal neurons was inhibited by astrocytes exposed to Aβ25-35. The Aβ25-35-exposed astrocytes lowered excitatory postsynaptic release and the size of the readily releasable synaptic pool. The number of excitatory synapses was also reduced. However, the number of excitatory synapses was unchanged unless there was direct contact between Aβ25-35-exposed astrocytes and hippocampal neurons. These data indicate that direct contact between Aβ25-35-exposed astrocytes and neurons is critical for inhibiting synaptic transmission in the progression of Alzheimer’s disease.
Collapse
|
44
|
Wong J, Chopra J, Chiang LLW, Liu T, Ho J, Wu WKK, Tse G, Wong SH. The Role of Connexins in Gastrointestinal Diseases. J Mol Biol 2019; 431:643-652. [PMID: 30639409 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2019.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2018] [Revised: 10/03/2018] [Accepted: 01/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Gap junctions are hexagonal arrays of protein molecules in the plasma membrane and were first described in Mauthner cell synapses of goldfish. They form pathways for coupling between cells, allowing passive, electrotonic spread of ions and also passage of larger molecules such as amino acids and nucleotides. They are expressed in both excitable and non-excitable tissues. Each gap junction is made of two connexons, which are hexameric proteins of the connexin subunit. In this review, the roles that connexins play in gastrointestinal motility, the mechanisms of altered connexin expression leading to inflammatory bowel disease, gastrointestinal infections, and gastrointestinal symptoms in autistic spectrum disorder are discussed in detail.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jeremy Wong
- Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, PR China
| | - Jasmine Chopra
- Faculty of Arts and Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | | | - Tong Liu
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Ionic-Molecular Function of Cardiovascular disease, Department of Cardiology, Tianjin Institute of Cardiology, Second Hospital of Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300211, PR China
| | - Jeffery Ho
- Department of Anaesthesia and Intensive Care, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, PR China; Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, PR China
| | - William K K Wu
- Department of Anaesthesia and Intensive Care, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, PR China; Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, PR China
| | - Gary Tse
- Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, PR China; Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, PR China.
| | - Sunny Hei Wong
- Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, PR China; Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Verkhratsky A, Ho MS, Vardjan N, Zorec R, Parpura V. General Pathophysiology of Astroglia. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2019; 1175:149-179. [PMID: 31583588 PMCID: PMC7188602 DOI: 10.1007/978-981-13-9913-8_7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Astroglial cells are involved in most if not in all pathologies of the brain. These cells can change the morpho-functional properties in response to pathology or innate changes of these cells can lead to pathologies. Overall pathological changes in astroglia are complex and diverse and often vary with different disease stages. We classify astrogliopathologies into reactive astrogliosis, astrodegeneration with astroglial atrophy and loss of function, and pathological remodelling of astrocytes. Such changes can occur in neurological, neurodevelopmental, metabolic and psychiatric disorders as well as in infection and toxic insults. Mutation in astrocyte-specific genes leads to specific pathologies, such as Alexander disease, which is a leukodystrophy. We discuss changes in astroglia in the pathological context and identify some molecular entities underlying pathology. These entities within astroglia may repent targets for novel therapeutic intervention in the management of brain pathologies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alexei Verkhratsky
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PT, UK.
- Center for Basic and Translational Neuroscience, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2200, Copenhagen, Denmark.
- Achucarro Center for Neuroscience, IKERBASQUE, Basque Foundation for Science, 48011, Bilbao, Spain.
| | - Margaret S Ho
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, 201210, Shanghai, China
| | - Nina Vardjan
- Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology-Molecular Cell Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Pathophysiology, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Celica BIOMEDICAL, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Robert Zorec
- Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology-Molecular Cell Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Pathophysiology, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Celica BIOMEDICAL, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Vladimir Parpura
- Department of Neurobiology, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Bronzuoli MR, Facchinetti R, Ingrassia D, Sarvadio M, Schiavi S, Steardo L, Verkhratsky A, Trezza V, Scuderi C. Neuroglia in the autistic brain: evidence from a preclinical model. Mol Autism 2018; 9:66. [PMID: 30603062 PMCID: PMC6307226 DOI: 10.1186/s13229-018-0254-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2018] [Accepted: 12/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Neuroglial cells that provide homeostatic support and form defence of the nervous system contribute to all neurological disorders. We analyzed three major types of neuroglia, astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, and microglia in the brains of an animal model of autism spectrum disorder, in which rats were exposed prenatally to antiepileptic and mood stabilizer drug valproic acid; this model being of acknowledged clinical relevance. Methods We tested the autistic-like behaviors of valproic acid-prenatally exposed male rats by performing isolation-induced ultrasonic vocalizations, the three-chamber test, and the hole board test. To account for human infancy, adolescence, and adulthood, such tasks were performed at postnatal day 13, postnatal day 35, and postnatal day 90, respectively. After sacrifice, we examined gene and protein expression of specific markers of neuroglia in hippocampus, prefrontal cortex, and cerebellum, these brain regions being associated with autism spectrum disorder pathogenesis. Results Infant offspring of VPA-exposed dams emitted less ultrasonic vocalizations when isolated from their mothers and siblings and, in adolescence and adulthood, they showed altered sociability in the three chamber test and increased stereotypic behavior in the hole board test. Molecular analyses indicate that prenatal valproic acid exposure affects all types of neuroglia, mainly causing transcriptional modifications. The most prominent changes occur in prefrontal cortex and in the hippocampus of autistic-like animals; these changes are particularly evident during infancy and adolescence, while they appear to be mitigated in adulthood. Conclusions Neuroglial pathological phenotype in autism spectrum disorder rat model appears to be rather mild with little signs of widespread and chronic neuroinflammation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maria Rosanna Bronzuoli
- 1Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, "Vittorio Erspamer" SAPIENZA University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Roberta Facchinetti
- 1Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, "Vittorio Erspamer" SAPIENZA University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Davide Ingrassia
- 1Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, "Vittorio Erspamer" SAPIENZA University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Michela Sarvadio
- 2Department of Science, Section of Biomedical Sciences and Technologies, University "Roma Tre", 00154 Rome, Italy
| | - Sara Schiavi
- 2Department of Science, Section of Biomedical Sciences and Technologies, University "Roma Tre", 00154 Rome, Italy
| | - Luca Steardo
- 1Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, "Vittorio Erspamer" SAPIENZA University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Alexei Verkhratsky
- 3Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, M13 9PT UK.,4Center for Basic and Translational Neuroscience, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark.,5Achucarro Center for Neuroscience, IKERBASQUE, Basque Foundation for Science, 48011 Bilbao, Spain
| | - Viviana Trezza
- 2Department of Science, Section of Biomedical Sciences and Technologies, University "Roma Tre", 00154 Rome, Italy
| | - Caterina Scuderi
- 1Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, "Vittorio Erspamer" SAPIENZA University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Wegiel J, Brown WT, La Fauci G, Adayev T, Kascsak R, Kascsak R, Flory M, Kaczmarski W, Kuchna I, Nowicki K, Martinez-Cerdeno V, Wisniewski T, Wegiel J. The role of reduced expression of fragile X mental retardation protein in neurons and increased expression in astrocytes in idiopathic and syndromic autism (duplications 15q11.2-q13). Autism Res 2018; 11:1316-1331. [PMID: 30107092 DOI: 10.1002/aur.2003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2018] [Revised: 05/29/2018] [Accepted: 06/13/2018] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Fragile X syndrome (FXS), caused by lack of fragile X mental retardation protein (FMRP), is associated with a high prevalence of autism. The deficit of FMRP reported in idiopathic autism suggests a mechanistic overlap between FXS and autism. The overall goal of this study is to detect neuropathological commonalities of FMRP deficits in the brains of people with idiopathic autism and with syndromic autism caused by dup15q11.2-q13 (dup15). This study tests the hypothesis based on our preliminary data that both idiopathic and syndromic autism are associated with brain region-specific deficits of neuronal FMRP and structural changes of the affected neurons. This immunocytochemical study revealed neuronal FMRP deficits and shrinkage of deficient neurons in the cerebral cortex, subcortical structures, and cerebellum in subjects with idiopathic and dup(15)/autism. Neuronal FMRP deficit coexists with surprising infiltration of the brains of autistic children and adults with FMRP-positive astrocytes known to be typical only for the fetal and short postnatal periods. In the examined autistic subjects, these astrocytes selectively infiltrate the border between white and gray matter in the cerebral and cerebellar cortex, the molecular layer of the cortex, part of the amygdala and thalamus, central cerebellar white matter, and dentate nucleus. Astrocyte pathology results in an additional local loss of FMRP in neurons and their shrinkage. Neuronal deficit of FMRP and shrinkage of affected neurons in structures free of FMRP-positive astrocytes and regions infiltrated with FMRP-expressing astrocytes appear to reflect mechanistic, neuropathological, and functional commonalities of FMRP abnormalities in FXS and autism spectrum disorder. Autism Res 2018, 11: 1316-1331. © 2018 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc. LAY SUMMARY: Immunocytochemistry reveals a deficit of fragile X mental retardation protein (FMRP) in neurons of cortical and subcortical brain structures but increased FMRP expression in astrocytes infiltrating gray and white matter. The detected shrinkage of FMRP-deficient neurons may provide a mechanistic explanation of reported neuronal structural and functional changes in autism. This study contributes to growing evidence of mechanistic commonalities between fragile X syndrome and autism spectrum disorder.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jarek Wegiel
- Department of Developmental Neurobiology, NYS Institute for Basic Research in Developmental Disabilities, Staten Island, New York
| | - W Ted Brown
- Department of Human Genetics, New York State Institute for Basic Research in Developmental Disabilities, Staten Island, New York
| | - Giuseppe La Fauci
- Department of Human Genetics, New York State Institute for Basic Research in Developmental Disabilities, Staten Island, New York
| | - Tatyana Adayev
- Department of Human Genetics, New York State Institute for Basic Research in Developmental Disabilities, Staten Island, New York
| | - Richard Kascsak
- Department of Developmental Biochemistry, New York State Institute for Basic Research in Developmental Disabilities, Staten Island, New York
| | - Regina Kascsak
- Department of Developmental Biochemistry, New York State Institute for Basic Research in Developmental Disabilities, Staten Island, New York
| | - Michael Flory
- Research Design and Analysis Service, New York State Institute for Basic Research in Developmental Disabilities, Staten Island, New York
| | - Wojciech Kaczmarski
- Department of Developmental Neurobiology, NYS Institute for Basic Research in Developmental Disabilities, Staten Island, New York
| | - Izabela Kuchna
- Department of Developmental Neurobiology, NYS Institute for Basic Research in Developmental Disabilities, Staten Island, New York
| | - Krzysztof Nowicki
- Department of Developmental Neurobiology, NYS Institute for Basic Research in Developmental Disabilities, Staten Island, New York
| | - Veronica Martinez-Cerdeno
- Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Institute for Pediatric Regenerative Medicine, MIND Institute, University of California, Davis, California
| | - Thomas Wisniewski
- Departments of Neurology, Pathology, and Psychiatry, NYU Langone Medical Center, New York, New York
| | - Jerzy Wegiel
- Department of Developmental Neurobiology, NYS Institute for Basic Research in Developmental Disabilities, Staten Island, New York
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Mony TJ, Lee JW, Kim SS, Chun W, Lee HJ. Early Postnatal Valproic Acid Exposure Increase the Protein Level of Astrocyte Markers in Frontal Cortex of Rat. CLINICAL PSYCHOPHARMACOLOGY AND NEUROSCIENCE 2018; 16:214-217. [PMID: 29739136 PMCID: PMC5953022 DOI: 10.9758/cpn.2018.16.2.214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2017] [Revised: 03/05/2017] [Accepted: 03/29/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Objective In our previous study, it has been reported that valproic acid (VPA) effects gliogenesis and increases the number of glial precursor cells during the early postnatal period. However there is no specific report that whether this process is going on up to the age of mature brain development and the consequence effect of this ongoing gliogenesis process. Methods As an ongoing study, using Immunoblotting analysis, we checked the level of glial protein and glial-derived factor markers in the frontal cortex of a rat brain at postnatal day (PND) 21. Results The finding of the study suggests that, in the VPA group (p<0.05), early exposure elicited significantly to increase the expression level of glial protein cells at PND 21 in the frontal cortex of rat brain. Conclusion Therefore we suggest that, alter gliogenesis and abnormal number of glial cells modulate the neurobiological dysfunction and induces the risk of neurodevelopmental disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tamanna Jahan Mony
- Department of Pharmacology, Kangwon National University School of Medicine, Chuncheon, Korea
| | - Jae Won Lee
- Department of Pharmacology, Kangwon National University School of Medicine, Chuncheon, Korea.,National Medicine Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Chungju, Korea
| | - Sung Soo Kim
- Department of Pharmacology, Kangwon National University School of Medicine, Chuncheon, Korea
| | - Wanjoo Chun
- Department of Pharmacology, Kangwon National University School of Medicine, Chuncheon, Korea
| | - Hee Jae Lee
- Department of Pharmacology, Kangwon National University School of Medicine, Chuncheon, Korea
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Affiliation(s)
- Ryo Yamasaki
- Department of Neurology; Neurological Institute; Graduate School of Medical Sciences; Kyushu University; Fukuoka Japan
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Hillen AEJ, Burbach JPH, Hol EM. Cell adhesion and matricellular support by astrocytes of the tripartite synapse. Prog Neurobiol 2018; 165-167:66-86. [PMID: 29444459 DOI: 10.1016/j.pneurobio.2018.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2016] [Revised: 07/25/2017] [Accepted: 02/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Astrocytes contribute to the formation, function, and plasticity of synapses. Their processes enwrap the neuronal components of the tripartite synapse, and due to this close interaction they are perfectly positioned to modulate neuronal communication. The interaction between astrocytes and synapses is facilitated by cell adhesion molecules and matricellular proteins, which have been implicated in the formation and functioning of tripartite synapses. The importance of such neuron-astrocyte integration at the synapse is underscored by the emerging role of astrocyte dysfunction in synaptic pathologies such as autism and schizophrenia. Here we review astrocyte-expressed cell adhesion molecules and matricellular molecules that play a role in integration of neurons and astrocytes within the tripartite synapse.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anne E J Hillen
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, Brain Center Rudolf Magnus, University Medical Center Utrecht, 3584 CG Utrecht, The Netherlands; Department of Pediatrics/Child Neurology, VU University Medical Center, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - J Peter H Burbach
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, Brain Center Rudolf Magnus, University Medical Center Utrecht, 3584 CG Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Elly M Hol
- Department of Translational Neuroscience, Brain Center Rudolf Magnus, University Medical Center Utrecht, 3584 CG Utrecht, The Netherlands; Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, Center for Neuroscience, University of Amsterdam, 1098 XH Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Department of Neuroimmunology, Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, An Institute of the Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences, 1105 BA Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| |
Collapse
|