1
|
Development and characterization of human fetal female reproductive tract organoids to understand Müllerian duct anomalies. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2022; 119:e2118054119. [PMID: 35858415 PMCID: PMC9335258 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2118054119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Müllerian ducts are paired tubular structures that give rise to most of the female reproductive organs. Any abnormalities in the development and differentiation of these ducts lead to anatomical defects in the female reproductive tract organs categorized as Müllerian duct anomalies. Due to the limited access to fetal tissues, little is understood of human reproductive tract development and the associated anomalies. Although organoids represent a powerful model to decipher human development and disease, such organoids from fetal reproductive organs are not available. Here, we developed organoids from human fetal fallopian tubes and uteri and compared them with their adult counterparts. Our results demonstrate that human fetal reproductive tract epithelia do not express some of the typical markers of adult reproductive tract epithelia. Furthermore, fetal organoids are grossly, histologically, and proteomically different from adult organoids. While external supplementation of WNT ligands or activators in culture medium is an absolute requirement for the adult reproductive tract organoids, fetal organoids are able to grow in WNT-deficient conditions. We also developed decellularized tissue scaffolds from adult human fallopian tubes and uteri. Transplantation of fetal organoids onto these scaffolds led to the regeneration of the adult fallopian tube and uterine epithelia. Importantly, suppression of Wnt signaling, which is altered in patients with Müllerian duct anomalies, inhibits the regenerative ability of human fetal organoids and causes severe anatomical defects in the mouse reproductive tract. Thus, our fetal organoids represent an important platform to study the underlying basis of human female reproductive tract development and diseases.
Collapse
|
2
|
Huang Y, Mao H, Chen Y. Regeneration of Hair Cells in the Human Vestibular System. Front Mol Neurosci 2022; 15:854635. [PMID: 35401109 PMCID: PMC8987309 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2022.854635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2022] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The vestibular system is a critical part of the human balance system, malfunction of this system will lead to balance disorders, such as vertigo. Mammalian vestibular hair cells, the mechanical receptors for vestibular function, are sensitive to ototoxic drugs and virus infection, and have a limited restorative capacity after damage. Considering that no artificial device can be used to replace vestibular hair cells, promoting vestibular hair cell regeneration is an ideal way for vestibular function recovery. In this manuscript, the development of human vestibular hair cells during the whole embryonic stage and the latest research on human vestibular hair cell regeneration is summarized. The limitations of current studies are emphasized and future directions are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yikang Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Eye and ENT Hospital, MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, ENT Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Hearing Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Huanyu Mao
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Eye and ENT Hospital, MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, ENT Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Hearing Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yan Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Eye and ENT Hospital, MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, ENT Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Hearing Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Yan Chen,
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Quinn RK, Drury HR, Cresswell ET, Tadros MA, Nayagam BA, Callister RJ, Brichta AM, Lim R. Expression and Physiology of Voltage-Gated Sodium Channels in Developing Human Inner Ear. Front Neurosci 2021; 15:733291. [PMID: 34759790 PMCID: PMC8575412 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2021.733291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Accepted: 09/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Sodium channel expression in inner ear afferents is essential for the transmission of vestibular and auditory information to the central nervous system. During development, however, there is also a transient expression of Na+ channels in vestibular and auditory hair cells. Using qPCR analysis, we describe the expression of four Na+ channel genes, SCN5A (Nav1.5), SCN8A (Nav1.6), SCN9A (Nav1.7), and SCN10A (Nav1.8) in the human fetal cristae ampullares, utricle, and base, middle, and apex of the cochlea. Our data show distinct patterns of Na+ channel gene expression with age and between these inner ear organs. In the utricle, there was a general trend toward fold-change increases in expression of SCN8A, SCN9A, and SCN10A with age, while the crista exhibited fold-change increases in SCN5A and SCN8A and fold-change decreases in SCN9A and SCN10A. Fold-change differences of each gene in the cochlea were more complex and likely related to distinct patterns of expression based on tonotopy. Generally, the relative expression of SCN genes in the cochlea was greater than that in utricle and cristae ampullares. We also recorded Na+ currents from developing human vestibular hair cells aged 10-11 weeks gestation (WG), 12-13 WG, and 14+ WG and found there is a decrease in the number of vestibular hair cells that exhibit Na+ currents with increasing gestational age. Na+ current properties and responses to the application of tetrodotoxin (TTX; 1 μM) in human fetal vestibular hair cells are consistent with those recorded in other species during embryonic and postnatal development. Both TTX-sensitive and TTX-resistant currents are present in human fetal vestibular hair cells. These results provide a timeline of sodium channel gene expression in inner ear neuroepithelium and the physiological characterization of Na+ currents in human fetal vestibular neuroepithelium. Understanding the normal developmental timeline of ion channel gene expression and when cells express functional ion channels is essential information for regenerative technologies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rikki K Quinn
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia.,Hunter Medical Research Institute, The University of Newcastle, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
| | - Hannah R Drury
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia.,Hunter Medical Research Institute, The University of Newcastle, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
| | - Ethan T Cresswell
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia.,Hunter Medical Research Institute, The University of Newcastle, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
| | - Melissa A Tadros
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia.,Hunter Medical Research Institute, The University of Newcastle, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
| | - Bryony A Nayagam
- Department of Audiology and Speech Pathology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Robert J Callister
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia.,Hunter Medical Research Institute, The University of Newcastle, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
| | - Alan M Brichta
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia.,Hunter Medical Research Institute, The University of Newcastle, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
| | - Rebecca Lim
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia.,Hunter Medical Research Institute, The University of Newcastle, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Quinn RK, Drury HR, Lim R, Callister RJ, Tadros MA. Differentiation of Sensory Neuron Lineage During the Late First and Early Second Trimesters of Human Foetal Development. Neuroscience 2021; 467:28-38. [PMID: 34033872 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2021.05.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Revised: 05/06/2021] [Accepted: 05/15/2021] [Indexed: 09/30/2022]
Abstract
Sensory neurons within DRGs are broadly divided into three types that transmit nociceptive, mechanical, and proprioceptive signals. These subtypes are established during in utero development when sensory neurons differentiate into distinct categories according to a complex developmental plan. Most of what we know about this developmental plan comes from studies in rodents and little is known about this process in humans. The present study documents the expression of key genes involved in human sensory neuron development during the late first and early second trimesters (9-16WG). We observed a decrease in the expression of SOX10 and BRN3A, factors associated with migration and proliferation of sensory neurons, towards the end of the first trimester. Small and large sensory neuron populations also emerged at the end of the first trimester, as well as the transcription factors responsible for defining distinct sensory neuron types. NTRK1, which is expressed in nociceptive neurons, emerged first at ~11 WG followed by NTRK2 in mechanoreceptors at ~12 WG, with NTRK3 for proprioceptors peaking at ~14 WG. These peaks were followed by increased expression of their respective neurotrophic factors. Our results show significant differences in the expression of key signalling molecules for human DRG development versus that of rodents, most notably the expression of neurotrophins that promote the survival of sensory neuron types. This highlights the importance of examining molecular changes in humans to better inform the application of data collected in pre-clinical models.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rikki K Quinn
- School of Biomedical Sciences & Pharmacy, University of Newcastle and Hunter Medical Research Institute, Newcastle, NSW 2308, Australia
| | - Hannah R Drury
- School of Biomedical Sciences & Pharmacy, University of Newcastle and Hunter Medical Research Institute, Newcastle, NSW 2308, Australia
| | - Rebecca Lim
- School of Biomedical Sciences & Pharmacy, University of Newcastle and Hunter Medical Research Institute, Newcastle, NSW 2308, Australia
| | - Robert J Callister
- School of Biomedical Sciences & Pharmacy, University of Newcastle and Hunter Medical Research Institute, Newcastle, NSW 2308, Australia
| | - Melissa A Tadros
- School of Biomedical Sciences & Pharmacy, University of Newcastle and Hunter Medical Research Institute, Newcastle, NSW 2308, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Ramakrishna Y, Sadeghi SG. Activation of GABA B receptors results in excitatory modulation of calyx terminals in rat semicircular canal cristae. J Neurophysiol 2020; 124:962-972. [PMID: 32816581 PMCID: PMC7509296 DOI: 10.1152/jn.00243.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2020] [Revised: 08/11/2020] [Accepted: 08/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Previous studies have found GABA in vestibular end organs. However, existence of GABA receptors or possible GABAergic effects on vestibular nerve afferents has not been investigated. The current study was conducted to determine whether activation of GABAB receptors affects calyx afferent terminals in the central region of the cristae of semicircular canals. We used patch-clamp recording in postnatal day 13-18 (P13-P18) Sprague-Dawley rats of either sex. Application of GABAB receptor agonist baclofen inhibited voltage-sensitive potassium currents. This effect was blocked by selective GABAB receptor antagonist CGP 35348. Application of antagonists of small (SK)- and large-conductance potassium (BK) channels almost completely blocked the effects of baclofen. The remaining baclofen effect was blocked by cadmium chloride, suggesting that it could be due to inhibition of voltage-gated calcium channels. Furthermore, baclofen had no effect in the absence of calcium in the extracellular fluid. Inhibition of potassium currents by GABAB activation resulted in an excitatory effect on calyx terminal action potential firing. While in the control condition calyces could only fire a single action potential during step depolarizations, in the presence of baclofen they fired continuously during steps and a few even showed repetitive discharge. We also found a decrease in threshold for action potential generation and a decrease in first-spike latency during step depolarization. These results provide the first evidence for the presence of GABAB receptors on calyx terminals, showing that their activation results in an excitatory effect and that GABA inputs could be used to modulate calyx response properties.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Using in vitro whole cell patch-clamp recordings from calyx terminals in the vestibular end organs, we show that activation of GABAB receptors result in an excitatory effect, with decreased spike-frequency adaptation and shortened first-spike latencies. Our results suggest that these effects are mediated through inhibition of calcium-sensitive potassium channels.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yugandhar Ramakrishna
- Center for Hearing and Deafness, Department of Communicative Disorders and Sciences, State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York
- Department of Communication Disorders and Sciences, California State University, Northridge, Northridge, California
| | - Soroush G Sadeghi
- Center for Hearing and Deafness, Department of Communicative Disorders and Sciences, State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York
- Neuroscience Program, State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Johnson Chacko L, Sergi C, Eberharter T, Dudas J, Rask-Andersen H, Hoermann R, Fritsch H, Fischer N, Glueckert R, Schrott-Fischer A. Early appearance of key transcription factors influence the spatiotemporal development of the human inner ear. Cell Tissue Res 2019; 379:459-471. [PMID: 31788757 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-019-03115-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2019] [Accepted: 09/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Expression patterns of transcription factors leucine-rich repeat-containing G protein-coupled receptor 5 (LGR5), transforming growth factor-β-activated kinase-1 (TAK1), SRY (sex-determining region Y)-box 2 (SOX2), and GATA binding protein 3 (GATA3) in the developing human fetal inner ear were studied between the gestation weeks 9 and 12. Further development of cochlear apex between gestational weeks 11 and 16 (GW11 and GW16) was examined using transmission electron microscopy. LGR5 was evident in the apical poles of the sensory epithelium of the cochlear duct and the vestibular end organs at GW11. Immunostaining was limited to hair cells of the organ of Corti by GW12. TAK1 was immune positive in inner hair cells of the organ of Corti by GW12 and colocalized with p75 neurotrophic receptor expression. Expression for SOX2 was confined primarily to the supporting cells of utricle at the earliest stage examined at GW9. Intense expression for GATA3 was presented in the cochlear sensory epithelium and spiral ganglia at GW9. Expression of GATA3 was present along the midline of both the utricle and saccule in the zone corresponding to the striolar reversal zone where the hair cell phenotype switches from type I to type II. The spatiotemporal gradient of the development of the organ of Corti was also evident with the apex of the cochlea forming by GW16. It seems that highly specific staining patterns of several transcriptions factors are critical in guiding the genesis of the inner ear over development. Our findings suggest that the spatiotemporal gradient in cochlear development extends at least until gestational week 16.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lejo Johnson Chacko
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Anichstrasse 35, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Consolato Sergi
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology and Department of Pediatrics, University of Alberta, 8440 112 St, NW, Edmonton, AB, T6G 2B7, Canada
| | - Theresa Eberharter
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Anichstrasse 35, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Jozsef Dudas
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Anichstrasse 35, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Helge Rask-Andersen
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Head and Neck Surgery, Section of Otolaryngology, Uppsala University Hospital, SE-751 85, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Romed Hoermann
- Department of Anatomy, Histology & Embryology, Division of Clinical & Functional Anatomy, Medical University of Innsbruck, Muellerstrasse 59, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Helga Fritsch
- Department of Anatomy, Histology & Embryology, Division of Clinical & Functional Anatomy, Medical University of Innsbruck, Muellerstrasse 59, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Natalie Fischer
- University Clinics Innsbruck, Tirol Kliniken, Anichstrasse 35, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Rudolf Glueckert
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Anichstrasse 35, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria
- University Clinics Innsbruck, Tirol Kliniken, Anichstrasse 35, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Anneliese Schrott-Fischer
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Anichstrasse 35, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Johnson Chacko L, Wertjanz D, Sergi C, Dudas J, Fischer N, Eberharter T, Hoermann R, Glueckert R, Fritsch H, Rask-Andersen H, Schrott-Fischer A, Handschuh S. Growth and cellular patterning during fetal human inner ear development studied by a correlative imaging approach. BMC DEVELOPMENTAL BIOLOGY 2019; 19:11. [PMID: 31109306 PMCID: PMC6528216 DOI: 10.1186/s12861-019-0191-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2018] [Accepted: 04/12/2019] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Background Progressive transformation of the otic placode into the functional inner ear during gestational development in humans leads to the acquisition of hearing perception via the cochlea and balance and spatial orientation via the vestibular organ. Results Using a correlative approach involving micro-computerized tomography (micro-CT), transmission electron microscopy and histological techniques we were able to examine both the morphological and cellular changes associated with human inner ear development. Such an evaluation allowed for the examination of 3D geometry with high spatial and temporal resolution. In concert with gestational progression and growth of the cochlear duct, an increase in the distance between some of the Crista ampullaris is evident in all the specimens examined from GW12 to GW36. A parallel increase in the distances between the macular organs - fetal utricle and saccule - is also evident across the gestational stages examined. The distances between both the utricle and saccule to the three cristae ampullares also increased across the stages examined. A gradient in hair cell differentiation is apparent from apex to base of the fetal cochlea even at GW14. Conclusion We present structural information on human inner ear development across multiple levels of biological organization, including gross-morphology of the inner ear, cellular and subcellular details of hearing and vestibular organs, as well as ultrastructural details in the developing sensory epithelia. This enabled the gathering of detailed information regarding morphometric changes as well in realizing the complex developmental patterns of the human inner ear. We were able to quantify the volumetric and linear aspects of selected gestational inner ear specimens enabling a better understanding of the cellular changes across the fetal gestational timeline. Moreover, these data could serve as a reference for better understanding disorders that arise during inner ear development. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12861-019-0191-y) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lejo Johnson Chacko
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Anichstrasse 35, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - David Wertjanz
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Anichstrasse 35, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Consolato Sergi
- Department of Laboratory Medicine & Pathology, Division of Anatomical Pathology, 5B4.09 Walter C MacKenzie Health Sciences Centre, University of Alberta, Alberta, Canada
| | - Jozsef Dudas
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Anichstrasse 35, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Natalie Fischer
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Anichstrasse 35, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Theresa Eberharter
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Anichstrasse 35, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Romed Hoermann
- Department of Anatomy, Histology & Embryology, Division of Clinical & Functional Anatomy, Medical University of Innsbruck, Muellerstrasse 59, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Rudolf Glueckert
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Anichstrasse 35, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria.,University Clinics Innsbruck, Tirol Kliniken, Anichstrasse 35, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Helga Fritsch
- Department of Anatomy, Histology & Embryology, Division of Clinical & Functional Anatomy, Medical University of Innsbruck, Muellerstrasse 59, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Helge Rask-Andersen
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Head and Neck Surgery, Section of Otolaryngology, Uppsala University Hospital, 751 85, Uppsala, SE, Sweden
| | - Anneliese Schrott-Fischer
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Anichstrasse 35, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria.
| | - Stephan Handschuh
- VetCore Facility for Research, Imaging Unit, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Veterinaerplatz 1, A-1210, Vienna, Austria
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Holman HA, Poppi LA, Frerck M, Rabbitt RD. Spontaneous and Acetylcholine Evoked Calcium Transients in the Developing Mouse Utricle. Front Cell Neurosci 2019; 13:186. [PMID: 31133810 PMCID: PMC6514437 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2019.00186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2018] [Accepted: 04/12/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Spontaneous calcium transients are present during early postnatal development in the mouse retina and cochlea, and play an important role in maturation of the sensory organs and neural circuits in the central nervous system (CNS). It is not known whether similar calcium transients occur during postnatal development in the vestibular sensory organs. Here we demonstrate spontaneous intracellular calcium transients in sensory hair cells (HCs) and supporting cells (SCs) in the murine utricular macula during the first two postnatal weeks. Calcium transients were monitored using a genetically encoded calcium indicator, GCaMP5G (G5), at 100 ms-frame−1 in excised utricle sensory epithelia, including HCs, SCs, and neurons. The reporter line expressed G5 and tdTomato (tdT) in a Gad2-Cre dependent manner within a subset of utricular HCs, SCs and neurons. Kinetics of the G5 reporter limited temporal resolution to calcium events lasting longer than 200 ms. Spontaneous calcium transients lasting 1-2 s were observed in the expressing population of HCs at birth and slower spontaneous transients lasting 10-30 s appeared in SCs by P3. Beginning at P5, calcium transients could be modulated by application of the efferent neurotransmitter acetylcholine (ACh). In mature mice, calcium transients in the utricular macula occurred spontaneously, had a duration 1-2 s, and could be modulated by the exogenous application of acetylcholine (ACh) or muscarine. Long-lasting calcium transients evoked by ACh in mature mice were blocked by atropine, consistent with previous reports describing the role of muscarinic receptors expressed in calyx bearing afferents in efferent control of vestibular sensation. Large spontaneous and ACh evoked transients were reversibly blocked by the inositol trisphosphate receptor (IP3R) antagonist aminoethoxydiphenyl borate (2-APB). Results demonstrate long-lasting calcium transients are present in the utricular macula during the first postnatal week, and that responses to ACh mature over this same time period.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Holly A Holman
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
| | - Lauren A Poppi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, United States.,School of Biomedical Science and Pharmacy, Hunter Medical Research Institute, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, Australia
| | - Micah Frerck
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
| | - Richard D Rabbitt
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, United States.,Neuroscience Program, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, United States.,Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Ogier JM, Burt RA, Drury HR, Lim R, Nayagam BA. Organotypic Culture of Neonatal Murine Inner Ear Explants. Front Cell Neurosci 2019; 13:170. [PMID: 31130846 PMCID: PMC6509234 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2019.00170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2018] [Accepted: 04/11/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The inner ear is a complex organ containing highly specialised cell types and structures that are critical for sensing sound and movement. In vivo, the inner ear is difficult to study due to the osseous nature of the otic capsule and its encapsulation within an intricate bony labyrinth. As such, mammalian inner ear explants are an invaluable tool for the study and manipulation of the complex intercellular connections, structures, and cell types within this specialised organ. The greatest strength of this technique is that the complete organ of Corti, or peripheral vestibular organs including hair cells, supporting cells and accompanying neurons, is maintained in its in situ form. The greatest weakness of in vitro hair cell preparations is the short time frame in which the explanted tissue remains viable. Yet, cochlear explants have proven to be an excellent experimental model for understanding the fundamental aspects of auditory biology, substantiated by their use for over 40 years. In this protocol, we present a modernised inner ear explant technique that employs organotypic cell culture inserts and serum free media. This approach decreases the likelihood of explant damage by eliminating the need for adhesive substances. Serum free media also restricts excessive cellular outgrowth and inter-experimental variability, both of which are side effects of exogenous serum addition to cell cultures. The protocol described can be applied to culture both cochlear and vestibular explants from various mammals. Example outcomes are demonstrated by immunohistochemistry, hair cell quantification, and electrophysiological recordings to validate the versatility and viability of the protocol.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jacqueline M. Ogier
- Department of Genetics, The Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, VIC, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Rachel A. Burt
- Department of Genetics, The Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, VIC, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
- Department of Genetics, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Hannah R. Drury
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
| | - Rebecca Lim
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
| | - Bryony A. Nayagam
- Department of Audiology and Speech Pathology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
- The Bionics Institute, East Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Mattei C, Lim R, Drury H, Nasr B, Li Z, Tadros MA, D'Abaco GM, Stok KS, Nayagam BA, Dottori M. Generation of Vestibular Tissue-Like Organoids From Human Pluripotent Stem Cells Using the Rotary Cell Culture System. Front Cell Dev Biol 2019; 7:25. [PMID: 30891447 PMCID: PMC6413170 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2019.00025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2018] [Accepted: 02/12/2019] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Hair cells are specialized mechanosensitive cells responsible for mediating balance and hearing within the inner ear. In mammals, hair cells are limited in number and do not regenerate. Human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) provide a valuable source for deriving human hair cells to study their development and design therapies to treat and/or prevent their degeneration. In this study we used a dynamic 3D Rotary Cell Culture System (RCCS) for deriving inner ear organoids from hPSCs. We show RCCS-derived organoids recapitulate stages of inner ear development and give rise to an enriched population of hair cells displaying vestibular-like morphological and physiological phenotypes, which resemble developing human fetal inner ear hair cells as well as the presence of accessory otoconia-like structures. These results show that hPSC-derived organoids can generate complex inner ear structural features and be a resource to study inner ear development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cristiana Mattei
- Centre for Neural Engineering, Melbourne School of Engineering, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, Melbourne School of Engineering, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Rebecca Lim
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, Australia
| | - Hannah Drury
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, Australia
| | - Babak Nasr
- Centre for Neural Engineering, Melbourne School of Engineering, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Melbourne School of Engineering, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,ARC Centre of Excellence for Integrative Brain Function, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Zihui Li
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Melbourne School of Engineering, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Melissa A Tadros
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, Australia
| | - Giovanna M D'Abaco
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Melbourne School of Engineering, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Kathryn S Stok
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Melbourne School of Engineering, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Bryony A Nayagam
- Departments of Audiology and Speech Pathology and Department of Medical Bionics, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Mirella Dottori
- Centre for Neural Engineering, Melbourne School of Engineering, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, Melbourne School of Engineering, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Parks XX, Contini D, Jordan PM, Holt JC. Confirming a Role for α9nAChRs and SK Potassium Channels in Type II Hair Cells of the Turtle Posterior Crista. Front Cell Neurosci 2017; 11:356. [PMID: 29200999 PMCID: PMC5696599 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2017.00356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2017] [Accepted: 10/27/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
In turtle posterior cristae, cholinergic vestibular efferent neurons (VENs) synapse on type II hair cells, bouton afferents innervating type II hair cells, and afferent calyces innervating type I hair cells. Electrical stimulation of VENs releases acetylcholine (ACh) at these synapses to exert diverse effects on afferent background discharge including rapid inhibition of bouton afferents and excitation of calyx-bearing afferents. Efferent-mediated inhibition is most pronounced in bouton afferents innervating type II hair cells near the torus, but becomes progressively smaller and briefer when moving longitudinally through the crista toward afferents innervating the planum. Sharp-electrode recordings have inferred that efferent-mediated inhibition of bouton afferents requires the sequential activation of alpha9-containing nicotinic ACh receptors (α9*nAChRs) and small-conductance, calcium-dependent potassium channels (SK) in type II hair cells. Gradations in the strength of efferent-mediated inhibition across the crista likely reflect variations in α9*nAChRs and/or SK activation in type II hair cells from those different regions. However, in turtle cristae, neither inference has been confirmed with direct recordings from type II hair cells. To address these gaps, we performed whole-cell, patch-clamp recordings from type II hair cells within a split-epithelial preparation of the turtle posterior crista. Here, we can easily visualize and record hair cells while maintaining their native location within the neuroepithelium. Consistent with α9*nAChR/SK activation, ACh-sensitive currents in type II hair cells were inward at hyperpolarizing potentials but reversed near −90 mV to produce outward currents that typically peaked around −20 mV. ACh-sensitive currents were largest in torus hair cells but absent from hair cells near the planum. In current clamp recordings under zero-current conditions, ACh robustly hyperpolarized type II hair cells. ACh-sensitive responses were reversibly blocked by the α9nAChR antagonists ICS, strychnine, and methyllycaconitine as well as the SK antagonists apamin and UCL1684. Intact efferent terminals in the split-epithelial preparation spontaneously released ACh that also activated α9*nAChRs/SK in type II hair cells. These release events were accelerated with high-potassium external solution and all events were blocked by strychnine, ICS, methyllycaconitine, and apamin. These findings provide direct evidence that activation of α9*nAChR/SK in turtle type II hair cells underlies efferent-mediated inhibition of bouton afferents.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaorong Xu Parks
- Department of Otolaryngology, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, United States
| | - Donatella Contini
- Department of Otolaryngology, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, United States
| | - Paivi M Jordan
- Department of Otolaryngology, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, United States
| | - Joseph C Holt
- Department of Otolaryngology, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, United States.,Department of Neuroscience, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, United States.,Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, United States
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Johnson Chacko L, Blumer MJF, Pechriggl E, Rask-Andersen H, Dietl W, Haim A, Fritsch H, Glueckert R, Dudas J, Schrott-Fischer A. Role of BDNF and neurotrophic receptors in human inner ear development. Cell Tissue Res 2017; 370:347-363. [DOI: 10.1007/s00441-017-2686-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2017] [Accepted: 08/25/2017] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
|
13
|
Johnson Chacko L, Pechriggl EJ, Fritsch H, Rask-Andersen H, Blumer MJF, Schrott-Fischer A, Glueckert R. Neurosensory Differentiation and Innervation Patterning in the Human Fetal Vestibular End Organs between the Gestational Weeks 8-12. Front Neuroanat 2016; 10:111. [PMID: 27895556 PMCID: PMC5108762 DOI: 10.3389/fnana.2016.00111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2016] [Accepted: 10/28/2016] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Balance orientation depends on the precise operation of the vestibular end organs and the vestibular ganglion neurons. Previous research on the assemblage of the neuronal network in the developing fetal vestibular organ has been limited to data from animal models. Insights into the molecular expression profiles and signaling moieties involved in embryological development of the human fetal inner ear have been limited. We present an investigation of the cells of the vestibular end organs with specific focus on the hair cell differentiation and innervation pattern using an uninterrupted series of unique specimens from gestational weeks 8-12. Nerve fibers positive for peripherin innervate the entire fetal crista and utricle. While in rodents only the peripheral regions of the cristae and the extra-striolar region of the statolithic organs are stained. At week 9, transcription factors PAX2 and PAX8 were observed in the hair cells whereas PAX6 was observed for the first time among the supporting cells of the cristae and the satellite glial cells of the vestibular ganglia. Glutamine synthetase, a regulator of the neurotransmitter glutamate, is strongly expressed among satellite glia cells, transitional zones of the utricle and supporting cells in the sensory epithelium. At gestational week 11, electron microscopic examination reveals bouton contacts at hair cells and first signs of the formation of a protocalyx at type I hair cells. Our study provides first-hand insight into the fetal development of the vestibular end organs as well as their pattern of innervation by means of immunohistochemical and EM techniques, with the aim of contributing toward our understanding of balance development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lejo Johnson Chacko
- Department of Otolaryngology, Medical University of Innsbruck Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Elisabeth J Pechriggl
- Department of Anatomy, Histology, and Embryology, Division of Clinical and Functional Anatomy, Medical University of Innsbruck Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Helga Fritsch
- Department of Anatomy, Histology, and Embryology, Division of Clinical and Functional Anatomy, Medical University of Innsbruck Innsbruck, Austria
| | | | - Michael J F Blumer
- Department of Anatomy, Histology, and Embryology, Division of Clinical and Functional Anatomy, Medical University of Innsbruck Innsbruck, Austria
| | | | - Rudolf Glueckert
- Department of Otolaryngology, Medical University of InnsbruckInnsbruck, Austria; University Clinics Innsbruck, Tirol KlinikenInnsbruck, Austria
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Channeling your inner ear potassium: K+ channels in vestibular hair cells. Hear Res 2016; 338:40-51. [DOI: 10.1016/j.heares.2016.01.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2015] [Revised: 01/22/2016] [Accepted: 01/25/2016] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
|
15
|
Histopathologic Findings in Peripheral Vestibular System From Patients With Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: A Human Temporal Bone Study. Otol Neurotol 2016; 36:1702-7. [PMID: 26571410 DOI: 10.1097/mao.0000000000000897] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
HYPOTHESIS We hypothesized that a pathologic condition exists in vestibular hair cells in human temporal bones from patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). BACKGROUND A significant association between sensorineural hearing loss and autoimmune disease has been reported. Patients with SLE also frequently have vestibular symptoms whose pathophysiologic mechanism is unclear. METHODS We examined 15 temporal bone samples from 8 patients with SLE, along with 21 samples from 17 age-matched healthy control patients. The samples were serially sectioned in the horizontal plane and stained with hematoxylin and eosin. Using differential interference contrast microscopy, we counted the number of type I and type II hair cells in the saccular macula, the utricular macula, and the cristae of the three semicircular canals; then, we calculated the hair cell density (cells per 0.01 mm). RESULTS The mean density of type I hair cells in our SLE group was significantly lower than in our control group in the saccular macula, in the utricular macula, and in the superior, lateral, and posterior semicircular canals. But in all five vestibular sensory epithelia, the mean density of type II hair cells did not significantly differ between our two groups. In our SLE group, the mean density of vestibular hair cells did not significantly correlate with the patient's age at death or with the duration of SLE. CONCLUSION Type I hair cells in peripheral vestibular organs are affected in patients with SLE. Our findings could provide a pathologic basis for the difficulty with balance experienced by patients with SLE.
Collapse
|
16
|
Lim R, Brichta AM. Anatomical and physiological development of the human inner ear. Hear Res 2016; 338:9-21. [PMID: 26900072 DOI: 10.1016/j.heares.2016.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2015] [Revised: 01/20/2016] [Accepted: 02/12/2016] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
We describe the development of the human inner ear with the invagination of the otic vesicle at 4 weeks gestation (WG), the growth of the semicircular canals from 5 WG, and the elongation and coiling of the cochlea at 10 WG. As the membranous labyrinth takes shape, there is a concomitant development of the sensory neuroepithelia and their associated structures within. This review details the growth and differentiation of the vestibular and auditory neuroepithelia, including synaptogenesis, the expression of stereocilia and kinocilia, and innervation of hair cells by afferent and efferent nerve fibres. Along with development of essential sensory structures we outline the formation of crucial accessory structures of the vestibular system - the cupula and otolithic membrane and otoconia as well as the three cochlea compartments and the tectorial membrane. Recent molecular studies have elaborated on classical anatomical studies to characterize the development of prosensory and sensory regions of the fetal human cochlea using the transcription factors, PAX2, MAF-B, SOX2, and SOX9. Further advances are being made with recent physiological studies that are beginning to describe when hair cells become functionally active during human gestation. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled <Annual Reviews 2016>.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Lim
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, Faculty of Health and Medicine, The University of Newcastle, NSW, Australia.
| | - Alan M Brichta
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, Faculty of Health and Medicine, The University of Newcastle, NSW, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Tadros MA, Lim R, Hughes DI, Brichta AM, Callister RJ. Electrical maturation of spinal neurons in the human fetus: comparison of ventral and dorsal horn. J Neurophysiol 2015; 114:2661-71. [PMID: 26334015 DOI: 10.1152/jn.00682.2015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2015] [Accepted: 08/26/2015] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The spinal cord is critical for modifying and relaying sensory information to, and motor commands from, higher centers in the central nervous system to initiate and maintain contextually relevant locomotor responses. Our understanding of how spinal sensorimotor circuits are established during in utero development is based largely on studies in rodents. In contrast, there is little functional data on the development of sensory and motor systems in humans. Here, we use patch-clamp electrophysiology to examine the development of neuronal excitability in human fetal spinal cords (10-18 wk gestation; WG). Transverse spinal cord slices (300 μm thick) were prepared, and recordings were made, from visualized neurons in either the ventral (VH) or dorsal horn (DH) at 32°C. Action potentials (APs) could be elicited in VH neurons throughout the period examined, but only after 16 WG in DH neurons. At this age, VH neurons discharged multiple APs, whereas most DH neurons discharged single APs. In addition, at 16-18 WG, VH neurons also displayed larger AP and after-hyperpolarization amplitudes than DH neurons. Between 10 and 18 WG, the intrinsic properties of VH neurons changed markedly, with input resistance decreasing and AP and after-hyperpolarization amplitudes increasing. These findings are consistent with the hypothesis that VH motor circuitry matures more rapidly than the DH circuits that are involved in processing tactile and nociceptive information.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M A Tadros
- School of Biomedical Sciences & Pharmacy, Faculty of Health and Medicine, Hunter Medical Research Institute, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia; and
| | - R Lim
- School of Biomedical Sciences & Pharmacy, Faculty of Health and Medicine, Hunter Medical Research Institute, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia; and
| | - D I Hughes
- Spinal Cord Research Group, Institute of Neuroscience and Psychology, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - A M Brichta
- School of Biomedical Sciences & Pharmacy, Faculty of Health and Medicine, Hunter Medical Research Institute, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia; and
| | - R J Callister
- School of Biomedical Sciences & Pharmacy, Faculty of Health and Medicine, Hunter Medical Research Institute, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia; and
| |
Collapse
|