Intrinsic versus extrinsic determinants during the development of Purkinje cell dendrites

Stepwise molecular specification of excitatory synapse diversity onto cerebellar Purkinje cells

Brain function relies on the generation of a large variety of morphologically and functionally diverse, but specific, neuronal synapses. Here we show that, in mice, the initial formation of synapses on cerebellar Purkinje cells involves a presynaptic protein-CBLN1, a member of the C1q protein family-that is secreted by all types of excitatory inputs. The molecular program then evolves only in one of the Purkinje cell inputs, the inferior olivary neurons, with the additional expression of the presynaptic secreted proteins C1QL1, CRTAC1 and LGI2. These molecules work in concert to specify the mature connectivity pattern on the Purkinje cell target. These results show that some inputs actively and gradually specify their synaptic molecular identity, while others rely on the 'original molecular code'. Thus, the molecular specification of excitatory synapses, crucial for proper circuit function, is acquired in a stepwise manner during mouse postnatal development and obeys input-specific rules.

Engrailed-2 and inflammation convergently and independently impinge on cerebellar Purkinje cell differentiation

Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) have a complex pathogenesis thought to include both genetic and extrinsic factors. Among the latter, inflammation of the developing brain has recently gained growing attention. However, how genetic predisposition and inflammation might converge to precipitate autistic behavior remains elusive. Cerebellar structure and function are well known to be affected in autism. We therefore used cerebellar slice cultures to probe whether inflammatory stimulation and (over)expression of the autism susceptibility gene Engrailed-2 interact in shaping differentiation of Purkinje cells, key organizers of cerebellar histogenesis and function. We show that lipopolysaccharide treatment reduces Purkinje cell dendritogenesis and that this effect is enhanced by over-expression of Engrailed-2 in these cells. The effects of lipopolysaccharide can be blocked by inhibiting microglia proliferation and also by blocking tumor necrosis factor alpha receptor signaling, suggesting microglia and tumor necrosis factor alpha are major players in this scenario. These findings identify Purkinje cells as a potential integrator of genetic and environmental signals that lead to an autism-associated morphology.

Increased understanding of complex neuronal circuits in the cerebellar cortex

The prevailing belief has been that the fundamental structures of cerebellar neuronal circuits, consisting of a few major neuron types, are simple and well understood. Given that the cerebellum has long been known to be crucial for motor behaviors, these simple yet organized circuit structures seemed beneficial for theoretical studies proposing neural mechanisms underlying cerebellar motor functions and learning. On the other hand, experimental studies using advanced techniques have revealed numerous structural properties that were not traditionally defined. These include subdivided neuronal types and their circuit structures, feedback pathways from output Purkinje cells, and the multidimensional organization of neuronal interactions. With the recent recognition of the cerebellar involvement in non-motor functions, it is possible that these newly identified structural properties, which are potentially capable of generating greater complexity than previously recognized, are associated with increased information capacity. This, in turn, could contribute to the wide range of cerebellar functions. However, it remains largely unknown how such structural properties contribute to cerebellar neural computations through the regulation of neuronal activity or synaptic transmissions. To promote further research into cerebellar circuit structures and their functional significance, we aim to summarize the newly identified structural properties of the cerebellar cortex and discuss future research directions concerning cerebellar circuit structures and their potential functions.

MicroRNAs are necessary for the emergence of Purkinje cell identity

Brain computations are dictated by the unique morphology and connectivity of neuronal subtypes, features established by closely timed developmental events. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are critical for brain development, but current technologies lack the spatiotemporal resolution to determine how miRNAs instruct the steps leading to subtype identity. Here, we developed new tools to tackle this major gap. Fast and reversible miRNA loss-of-function revealed that miRNAs are necessary for cerebellar Purkinje cell (PC) differentiation, which previously appeared miRNA-independent, and resolved distinct miRNA critical windows in PC dendritogenesis and climbing fiber synaptogenesis, key determinants of PC identity. To identify underlying mechanisms, we generated a mouse model, which enables precise mapping of miRNAs and their targets in rare cell types. With PC-specific maps, we found that the PC-enriched miR-206 drives exuberant dendritogenesis and modulates synaptogenesis. Our results showcase vastly improved approaches for dissecting miRNA function and reveal that many critical miRNA mechanisms remain largely unexplored.

Highlights

Fast miRNA loss-of-function with T6B impairs postnatal Purkinje cell developmentReversible T6B reveals critical miRNA windows for dendritogenesis and synaptogenesisConditional Spy3-Ago2 mouse line enables miRNA-target network mapping in rare cellsPurkinje cell-enriched miR-206 regulates its unique dendritic and synaptic morphology.

Models of Purkinje cell dendritic tree selection during early cerebellar development

We investigate the relationship between primary dendrite selection of Purkinje cells and migration of their presynaptic partner granule cells during early cerebellar development. During postnatal development, each Purkinje cell grows more than three dendritic trees, from which a primary tree is selected for development, whereas the others completely retract. Experimental studies suggest that this selection process is coordinated by physical and synaptic interactions with granule cells, which undergo a massive migration at the same time. However, technical limitations hinder continuous experimental observation of multiple cell populations. To explore possible mechanisms underlying this selection process, we constructed a computational model using a new computational framework, NeuroDevSim. The study presents the first computational model that simultaneously simulates Purkinje cell growth and the dynamics of granule cell migrations during the first two postnatal weeks, allowing exploration of the role of physical and synaptic interactions upon dendritic selection. The model suggests that interaction with parallel fibers is important to establish the distinct planar morphology of Purkinje cell dendrites. Specific rules to select which dendritic trees to keep or retract result in larger winner trees with more synaptic contacts than using random selection. A rule based on afferent synaptic activity was less effective than rules based on dendritic size or numbers of synapses.

N-WASP-Arp2/3 signaling controls multiple steps of dendrite maturation in Purkinje cells in vivo

During neural development, the actin filament network must be precisely regulated to form elaborate neurite structures. N-WASP tightly controls actin polymerization dynamics by activating an actin nucleator Arp2/3. However, the importance of N-WASP-Arp2/3 signaling in the assembly of neurite architecture in vivo has not been clarified. Here, we demonstrate that N-WASP-Arp2/3 signaling plays a crucial role in the maturation of cerebellar Purkinje cell (PC) dendrites in vivo in mice. N-WASP was expressed and activated in developing PCs. Inhibition of Arp2/3 and N-WASP from the beginning of dendrite formation severely disrupted the establishment of a single stem dendrite, which is a characteristic basic structure of PC dendrites. Inhibition of Arp2/3 after stem dendrite formation resulted in hypoplasia of the PC dendritic tree. Cdc42, an upstream activator of N-WASP, is required for N-WASP-Arp2/3 signaling-mediated PC dendrite maturation. In addition, overactivation of N-WASP is also detrimental to dendrite formation in PCs. These findings reveal that proper activation of N-WASP-Arp2/3 signaling is crucial for multiple steps of PC dendrite maturation in vivo.

Endothelial Rbpj Is Required for Cerebellar Morphogenesis and Motor Control in the Early Postnatal Mouse Brain

Intercellular influences are necessary for coordinated development and function of vascular and neural components in the brain. In the early postnatal period after birth, the mammalian cerebellum undergoes extensive morphogenesis - developing its characteristic lobules, organizing its diverse cell types into defined cellular layers, and establishing neural circuits that support cerebellar function, such as coordinated movement. In parallel, the cerebellar vasculature undergoes extensive postnatal growth and maturation, keeping pace with the expanding neural compartment. Endothelial deletion of Rbpj leads to neurovascular abnormalities in mice, including arteriovenous (AV) shunts that supplant capillaries and instead direct high-pressure/high-flow arterial blood directly to veins. Gross and histopathological cerebellar abnormalities, associated with these Rbpj-mediated brain AV malformations (AVMs), led to our hypothesis that early postnatal morphogenesis and lamination of cerebellum was perturbed in mice harboring endothelial Rbpj deficiency from birth. Here, we show that endothelial Rbpj-mutant mice developed enlarged vascular malformations on the cerebellar surface, by 2-week post-Rbpj deletion. In addition, outgrowth of cerebellar lobules was impaired through decreased cell proliferation, but not increased apoptosis, in the external granule layer. Molecular layer thickness was reduced, and the Purkinje layer was affected, by decreased Purkinje cell number, primary dendrite length, and dendritic arbor density. Endothelial deletion of Rbpj also led to impaired motor behaviors, consistent with abnormal cerebellar morphogenesis and lamination. Thus, our data suggest that Rbpj is required, in early postnatal vascular endothelium, to ensure proper cerebellar outgrowth, morphogenesis, and function in mice.

Cell-Autonomous Processes That Impair Xenograft Survival into the Cerebellum

In immunocompetent animals, numerous factors including the immune system of the host regulate the survival of neuro-glial precursors transplanted into the cerebellum. We transplanted human neuro-glial precursors derived in vitro from partial differentiation of IPS cells into the developing cerebellum of mice and rats before maturation of the host immune system. These approaches should facilitate the development of immune-tolerance for the transplanted cells. However, we found that human cells survived the engraftment and integrated into the host cerebellum and brain stem up to about 1 month postnatally when they were rejected in both species. On the contrary, when we transplanted the same cells in NOD-SCID mice, they survived indefinitely. Our findings are consistent with the hypothesis that the slower pace of differentiation of human neural precursors compared to that of rodents restricts the induction of immune-tolerance to human antigens expressed before completion of the maturation of the immune system. As predicted by our hypothesis, when we engrafted the human neuro-glial precursor cells either in a more mature state or mixed with extracts from adult cerebellum, we prolonged the survival of the graft.

Recessive PRDM13 mutations cause fatal perinatal brainstem dysfunction with cerebellar hypoplasia and disrupt Purkinje cell differentiation

Pontocerebellar hypoplasias (PCHs) are congenital disorders characterized by hypoplasia or early atrophy of the cerebellum and brainstem, leading to a very limited motor and cognitive development. Although over 20 genes have been shown to be mutated in PCHs, a large proportion of affected individuals remains undiagnosed. We describe four families with children presenting with severe neonatal brainstem dysfunction and pronounced deficits in cognitive and motor development associated with four different bi-allelic mutations in PRDM13, including homozygous truncating variants in the most severely affected individuals. Brain MRI and fetopathological examination revealed a PCH-like phenotype, associated with major hypoplasia of inferior olive nuclei and dysplasia of the dentate nucleus. Notably, histopathological examinations highlighted a sparse and disorganized Purkinje cell layer in the cerebellum. PRDM13 encodes a transcriptional repressor known to be critical for neuronal subtypes specification in the mouse retina and spinal cord but had not been implicated, so far, in hindbrain development. snRNA-seq data mining and in situ hybridization in humans show that PRDM13 is expressed at early stages in the progenitors of the cerebellar ventricular zone, which gives rise to cerebellar GABAergic neurons, including Purkinje cells. We also show that loss of function of prdm13 in zebrafish leads to a reduction in Purkinje cells numbers and a complete absence of the inferior olive nuclei. Altogether our data identified bi-allelic mutations in PRDM13 as causing a olivopontocerebellar hypoplasia syndrome and suggest that early deregulations of the transcriptional control of neuronal fate specification could contribute to a significant number of cases.

Molecular mechanisms regulating the spatial configuration of neurites

Precise neural networks, composed of axons and dendrites, are the structural basis for information processing in the brain. Therefore, the correct formation of neurites is critical for accurate neural function. In particular, the three-dimensional structures of dendrites vary greatly among neuron types, and the unique shape of each dendrite is tightly linked to specific synaptic connections with innervating axons and is correlated with its information processing. Although many systems are involved in neurite formation, the developmental mechanisms that control the orientation, size, and arborization pattern of neurites definitively defines their three-dimensional structure in tissues. In this review, we summarize these regulatory mechanisms that establish proper spatial configurations of neurites, especially dendrites, in invertebrates and vertebrates.

Maturation of Purkinje cell firing properties relies on neurogenesis of excitatory neurons

Preterm infants that suffer cerebellar insults often develop motor disorders and cognitive difficulty. Excitatory granule cells, the most numerous neuron type in the brain, are especially vulnerable and likely instigate disease by impairing the function of their targets, the Purkinje cells. Here, we use regional genetic manipulations and in vivo electrophysiology to test whether excitatory neurons establish the firing properties of Purkinje cells during postnatal mouse development. We generated mutant mice that lack the majority of excitatory cerebellar neurons and tracked the structural and functional consequences on Purkinje cells. We reveal that Purkinje cells fail to acquire their typical morphology and connectivity, and that the concomitant transformation of Purkinje cell firing activity does not occur either. We also show that our mutant pups have impaired motor behaviors and vocal skills. These data argue that excitatory cerebellar neurons define the maturation time-window for postnatal Purkinje cell functions and refine cerebellar-dependent behaviors.

Homeostatic control of nuclear-encoded mitochondrial gene expression by the histone variant H2A.Z is essential for neuronal survival

Histone variants are crucial regulators of chromatin structure and gene transcription, yet their functions within the brain remain largely unexplored. Here, we show that the H2A histone variant H2A.Z is essential for neuronal survival. Mice lacking H2A.Z in GABAergic neurons or Purkinje cells (PCs) present with a progressive cerebellar ataxia accompanied by widespread degeneration of PCs. Ablation of H2A.Z in other neuronal subtypes also triggers cell death. H2A.Z binds to the promoters of key nuclear-encoded mitochondrial genes to regulate their expression and promote organelle function. Bolstering mitochondrial activity genetically or by organelle transplant enhances the survival of H2A.Z-ablated neurons. Changes in bioenergetic status alter H2A.Z occupancy at the promoters of nuclear-encoded mitochondrial genes, an adaptive response essential for cell survival. Our results highlight that H2A.Z fulfills a key, conserved role in neuronal survival by acting as a transcriptional rheostat to regulate the expression of genes critical to mitochondrial function.

Transcriptome programs involved in the development and structure of the cerebellum

In the past two decades, mounting evidence has modified the classical view of the cerebellum as a brain region specifically involved in the modulation of motor functions. Indeed, clinical studies and engineered mouse models have highlighted cerebellar circuits implicated in cognitive functions and behavior. Furthermore, it is now clear that insults occurring in specific time windows of cerebellar development can affect cognitive performance later in life and are associated with neurological syndromes, such as Autism Spectrum Disorder. Despite its almost homogenous cytoarchitecture, how cerebellar circuits form and function is not completely elucidated yet. Notably, the apparently simple neuronal organization of the cerebellum, in which Purkinje cells represent the only output, hides an elevated functional diversity even within the same neuronal population. Such complexity is the result of the integration of intrinsic morphogenetic programs and extracellular cues from the surrounding environment, which impact on the regulation of the transcriptome of cerebellar neurons. In this review, we briefly summarize key features of the development and structure of the cerebellum before focusing on the pathways involved in the acquisition of the cerebellar neuron identity. We focus on gene expression and mRNA processing programs, including mRNA methylation, trafficking and splicing, that are set in motion during cerebellar development and participate to its physiology. These programs are likely to add new layers of complexity and versatility that are fundamental for the adaptability of cerebellar neurons.

Gjd2b-mediated gap junctions promote glutamatergic synapse formation and dendritic elaboration in Purkinje neurons

Gap junctions between neurons serve as electrical synapses, in addition to conducting metabolites and signaling molecules. During development, early-appearing gap junctions are thought to prefigure chemical synapses, which appear much later. We present evidence for this idea at a central, glutamatergic synapse and provide some mechanistic insights. Loss or reduction in the levels of the gap junction protein Gjd2b decreased the frequency of glutamatergic miniature excitatory postsynaptic currents (mEPSCs) in cerebellar Purkinje neurons (PNs) in larval zebrafish. Ultrastructural analysis in the molecular layer showed decreased synapse density. Further, mEPSCs had faster kinetics and larger amplitudes in mutant PNs, consistent with their stunted dendritic arbors. Time-lapse microscopy in wild-type and mutant PNs reveals that Gjd2b puncta promote the elongation of branches and that CaMKII may be a critical mediator of this process. These results demonstrate that Gjd2b-mediated gap junctions regulate glutamatergic synapse formation and dendritic elaboration in PNs.

Interactions Between Purkinje Cells and Granule Cells Coordinate the Development of Functional Cerebellar Circuits

Cerebellar development has a remarkably protracted morphogenetic timeline that is coordinated by multiple cell types. Here, we discuss the intriguing cellular consequences of interactions between inhibitory Purkinje cells and excitatory granule cells during embryonic and postnatal development. Purkinje cells are central to all cerebellar circuits, they are the first cerebellar cortical neurons to be born, and based on their cellular and molecular signaling, they are considered the master regulators of cerebellar development. Although rudimentary Purkinje cell circuits are already present at birth, their connectivity is morphologically and functionally distinct from their mature counterparts. The establishment of the Purkinje cell circuit with its mature firing properties has a temporal dependence on cues provided by granule cells. Granule cells are the latest born, yet most populous, neuronal type in the cerebellar cortex. They provide a combination of mechanical, molecular and activity-based cues that shape the maturation of Purkinje cell structure, connectivity and function. We propose that the wiring of Purkinje cells for function falls into two developmental phases: an initial phase that is guided by intrinsic mechanisms and a later phase that is guided by dynamically-acting cues, some of which are provided by granule cells. In this review, we highlight the mechanisms that granule cells use to help establish the unique properties of Purkinje cell firing.

Distribution of cortactin in cerebellar Purkinje cell spines

Dendritic spines are the primary sites of excitatory transmission in the mammalian brain. Spines of cerebellar Purkinje Cells (PCs) are plastic, but they differ from forebrain spines in a number of important respects, and the mechanisms of spine plasticity differ between forebrain and cerebellum. Our previous studies indicate that in hippocampal spines cortactin-a protein that stabilizes actin branch points-resides in the spine core, avoiding the spine shell. To see whether the distribution of cortactin differs in PC spines, we examined its subcellular organization using quantitative preembedding immunoelectron microscopy. We found that cortactin was enriched in the spine shell, associated with the non-synaptic membrane, and was also situated within the postsynaptic density (PSD). This previously unrecognized distribution of cortactin within PC spines may underlie structural and functional differences in excitatory spine synapses between forebrain, and cerebellum.

Scrap and Build for Functional Neural Circuits: Spatiotemporal Regulation of Dendrite Degeneration and Regeneration in Neural Development and Disease

Dendrites are cellular structures essential for the integration of neuronal information. These elegant but complex structures are highly patterned across the nervous system but vary tremendously in their size and fine architecture, each designed to best serve specific computations within their networks. Recent in vivo imaging studies reveal that the development of mature dendrite arbors in many cases involves extensive remodeling achieved through a precisely orchestrated interplay of growth, degeneration, and regeneration of dendritic branches. Both degeneration and regeneration of dendritic branches involve precise spatiotemporal regulation for the proper wiring of functional networks. In particular, dendrite degeneration must be targeted in a compartmentalized manner to avoid neuronal death. Dysregulation of these developmental processes, in particular dendrite degeneration, is associated with certain types of pathology, injury, and aging. In this article, we review recent progress in our understanding of dendrite degeneration and regeneration, focusing on molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying spatiotemporal control of dendrite remodeling in neural development. We further discuss how developmental dendrite degeneration and regeneration are molecularly and functionally related to dendrite remodeling in pathology, disease, and aging.

βIII spectrin controls the planarity of Purkinje cell dendrites by modulating perpendicular axon-dendrite interactions

The mechanism underlying the geometrical patterning of axon and dendrite wiring remains elusive, despite its crucial importance in the formation of functional neural circuits. The cerebellar Purkinje cell (PC) arborizes a typical planar dendrite, which forms an orthogonal network with granule cell (GC) axons. By using electrospun nanofiber substrates, we reproduce the perpendicular contacts between PC dendrites and GC axons in culture. In the model system, PC dendrites show a preference to grow perpendicularly to aligned GC axons, which presumably contribute to the planar dendrite arborization in vivo We show that βIII spectrin, a causal protein for spinocerebellar ataxia type 5, is required for the biased growth of dendrites. βIII spectrin deficiency causes actin mislocalization and excessive microtubule invasion in dendritic protrusions, resulting in abnormally oriented branch formation. Furthermore, disease-associated mutations affect the ability of βIII spectrin to control dendrite orientation. These data indicate that βIII spectrin organizes the mouse dendritic cytoskeleton and thereby regulates the oriented growth of dendrites with respect to the afferent axons.

AUTS2 Governs Cerebellar Development, Purkinje Cell Maturation, Motor Function and Social Communication

Autism susceptibility candidate 2 (AUTS2), a risk gene for autism spectrum disorders (ASDs), is implicated in telencephalon development. Because AUTS2 is also expressed in the cerebellum where defects have been linked to ASDs, we investigated AUTS2 functions in the cerebellum. AUTS2 is specifically localized in Purkinje cells (PCs) and Golgi cells during postnatal development. Auts2 conditional knockout (cKO) mice exhibited smaller and deformed cerebella containing immature-shaped PCs with reduced expression of Cacna1a. Auts2 cKO and knock-down experiments implicated AUTS2 participation in elimination and translocation of climbing fiber synapses and restriction of parallel fiber synapse numbers. Auts2 cKO mice exhibited behavioral impairments in motor learning and vocal communications. Because Cacna1a is known to regulate synapse development in PCs, it suggests that AUTS2 is required for PC maturation to elicit normal development of PC synapses and thus the impairment of AUTS2 may cause cerebellar dysfunction related to psychiatric illnesses such as ASDs.

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Loss of Auts2 leads to the reduction of cerebellar size

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AUTS2 promotes the dendritic maturation of Purkinje cells

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AUTS2 participates in PF and CF synapse development of Purkinje cells

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Auts2 cKO mice exhibit the impaired motor learning and vocal communications

Nucleo-cytoplasmic transport defects and protein aggregates in neurodegeneration

In the ongoing process of uncovering molecular abnormalities in neurodegenerative diseases characterized by toxic protein aggregates, nucleo-cytoplasmic transport defects have an emerging role. Several pieces of evidence suggest a link between neuronal protein inclusions and nuclear pore complex (NPC) damage. These processes lead to oxidative stress, inefficient transcription, and aberrant DNA/RNA maintenance. The clinical and neuropathological spectrum of NPC defects is broad, ranging from physiological aging to a suite of neurodegenerative diseases. A better understanding of the shared pathways among these conditions may represent a significant step toward dissecting their underlying molecular mechanisms, opening the way to a real possibility of identifying common therapeutic targets.

Refinement of Cerebellar Network Organization by Extracellular Signaling During Development

The cerebellum forms regular neural network structures consisting of a few major types of neurons, such as Purkinje cells, granule cells, and molecular layer interneurons, and receives two major inputs from climbing fibers and mossy fibers. Its regular structures consist of three well-defined layers, with each type of neuron designated to a specific location and forming specific synaptic connections. During the first few weeks of postnatal development in rodents, the cerebellum goes through dynamic changes via proliferation, migration, differentiation, synaptogenesis, and maturation, to create such a network structure. The development of this organized network structure presumably relies on the communication between developing elements in the network, including not only individual neurons, but also their dendrites, axons, and synapses. Therefore, it is reasonable that extracellular signaling via synaptic transmission, secreted molecules, and cell adhesion molecules, plays important roles in cerebellar network development. Although it is not yet clear as to how overall cerebellar development is orchestrated, there is indeed accumulating lines of evidence that extracellular signaling acts toward the development of individual elements in the cerebellar networks. In this article, we introduce what we have learned from many studies regarding the extracellular signaling required for cerebellar network development, including our recent study suggesting the importance of unbiased synaptic inputs from parallel fibers.

Cerebellar Development and Circuit Maturation: A Common Framework for Spinocerebellar Ataxias

Spinocerebellar ataxias (SCAs) affect the cerebellum and its afferent and efferent systems that degenerate during disease progression. In the cerebellum, Purkinje cells (PCs) are the most vulnerable and their prominent loss in the late phase of the pathology is the main characteristic of these neurodegenerative diseases. Despite the constant advancement in the discovery of affected molecules and cellular pathways, a comprehensive description of the events leading to the development of motor impairment and degeneration is still lacking. However, in the last years the possible causal role for altered cerebellar development and neuronal circuit wiring in SCAs has been emerging. Not only wiring and synaptic transmission deficits are a common trait of SCAs, but also preventing the expression of the mutant protein during cerebellar development seems to exert a protective role. By discussing this tight relationship between cerebellar development and SCAs, in this review, we aim to highlight the importance of cerebellar circuitry for the investigation of SCAs.

A Mouse Model System to Study Peroxisomal Roles in Neurodegeneration of Peroxisome Biogenesis Disorders

Fourteen PEX genes are currently identified as genes responsible for peroxisome biogenesis disorders (PBDs). Patients with PBDs manifest as neurodegenerative symptoms such as neuronal migration defect and malformation of the cerebellum. To address molecular mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis of PBDs, mouse models for the PBDs have been generated by targeted disruption of Pex genes. Pathological phenotypes and metabolic abnormalities in Pex-knockout mice well resemble those of the patients with PBDs. The mice with tissue- or cell type-specific inactivation of Pex genes have also been established by using a Cre-loxP system. The genetically modified mice reveal that pathological phenotypes of PBDs are mediated by interorgan and intercellular communications. Despite the illustrations of detailed pathological phenotypes in the mutant mice, mechanistic insights into pathogenesis of PBDs are still underway. In this chapter, we overview the phenotypes of Pex-inactivated mice and the current understanding of the pathogenesis underlying PBDs.

Task Force Paper On Cerebellar Transplantation: Are We Ready to Treat Cerebellar Disorders with Cell Therapy?

Restoration of damaged central nervous system structures, functional recovery, and prevention of neuronal loss during neurodegenerative diseases are major objectives in cerebellar research. The highly organized anatomical structure of the cerebellum with numerous inputs/outputs, the complexity of cerebellar functions, and the large spectrum of cerebellar ataxias render therapies of cerebellar disorders highly challenging. There are currently several therapeutic approaches including motor rehabilitation, neuroprotective drugs, non-invasive cerebellar stimulation, molecularly based therapy targeting pathogenesis of the disease, and neurotransplantation. We discuss the goals and possible beneficial mechanisms of transplantation therapy for cerebellar damage and its limitations and factors determining outcome.

The LKB1-SIK Pathway Controls Dendrite Self-Avoidance in Purkinje Cells

Strictly controlled dendrite patterning underlies precise neural connection. Dendrite self-avoidance is a crucial system preventing self-crossing and clumping of dendrites. Although many cell-surface molecules that regulate self-avoidance have been identified, the signaling pathway that orchestrates it remains poorly understood, particularly in mammals. Here, we demonstrate that the LKB1-SIK kinase pathway plays a pivotal role in the self-avoidance of Purkinje cell (PC) dendrites by ensuring dendritic localization of Robo2, a regulator of self-avoidance. LKB1 is activated in developing PCs, and PC-specific deletion of LKB1 severely disrupts the self-avoidance of PC dendrites without affecting gross morphology. SIK1 and SIK2, downstream kinases of LKB1, mediate LKB1-dependent dendrite self-avoidance. Furthermore, loss of LKB1 leads to significantly decreased Robo2 levels in the dendrite but not in the cell body. Finally, restoration of dendritic Robo2 level via overexpression largely rescues the self-avoidance defect in LKB1-deficient PCs. These findings reveal an LKB1-pathway-mediated developmental program that establishes dendrite self-avoidance.

Deletion of the α subunit of the heterotrimeric Go protein impairs cerebellar cortical development in mice

Go is a member of the pertussis toxin-sensitive Gi/o family. Despite its abundance in the central nervous system, the precise role of Go remains largely unknown compared to other G proteins. In the present study, we explored the functions of Go in the developing cerebellar cortex by deleting its gene, Gnao. We performed a histological analysis with cerebellar sections of adult mice by cresyl violet- and immunostaining. Global deletion of Gnao induced cerebellar hypoplasia, reduced arborization of Purkinje cell dendrites, and atrophied Purkinje cell dendritic spines and the terminal boutons of climbing fibers from the inferior olivary nucleus. These results indicate that Go-mediated signaling pathway regulates maturation of presynaptic parallel fibers from granule cells and climbing fibers during the cerebellar cortical development.

Merlin modulates process outgrowth and synaptogenesis in the cerebellum

Neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2) patients are prone to develop glial-derived tumors in the peripheral and central nervous system (CNS). The Nf2 gene product -Merlin is not only expressed in glia, but also in neurons of the CNS, where its function still remains elusive. Here, we show that cerebellar Purkinje cells (PCs) of isoform-specific Merlin-deficient mice were innervated by smaller vGluT2-positive clusters at presynaptic terminals than those of wild-type mice. This was paralleled by a reduction in frequency and amplitude of miniature excitatory postsynaptic currents (mEPSC). On the contrary, in conditional transgenic mice in which Merlin expression was specifically ablated in PCs (L7Cre;Nf2^fl/fl), we found enlarged vGluT2-positive clusters in their presynaptic buttons together with increased amplitudes of miniature postsynaptic currents. The presynaptic terminals of these PCs innervating neurons of the deep cerebellar nuclei were also enlarged. When exploring mice with Merlin-deficient granule cells (GCs) (Math1Cre;Nf2^fl/fl), we found cerebellar extracts to contain higher amounts of vGluT1 present in parallel fiber terminals. In parallel, mEPSC frequency was increased in Math1Cre;Nf2^fl/fl mice. On the contrary, VGluT2 clusters in cerebellar glomeruli composed of NF2-deficient presynaptic Mossy fiber terminals and NF2-deficient postsynaptic GC were reduced in size as shown for isoform-specific knockout mice. These changes in Math1Cre;Nf2^fl/fl-deficient mice were paralleled by an increased activation of Rac1-Cofilin signaling which is known to impact on cytoskeletal reorganization and synapse formation. Consistent with the observed synaptic alterations in these transgenic mice, we observed altered ultrasonic vocalization, which is known to rely on proper cerebellar function. No gross morphological changes or motor coordination deficits were observed in any of these transgenic mice. We therefore conclude that Merlin does not regulate overall cerebellar development, but impacts on pre- and post-synaptic terminal organization.

Neuronal Migration During Development of the Cerebellum

Neuronal migration is a fundamental process in central nervous system (CNS) development. The assembly of functioning neuronal circuits relies on neuronal migration occurring in the appropriate spatio-temporal pattern. A defect in the neuronal migration may result in a neurological disorder. The cerebellum, as a part of the CNS, plays a pivotal role in motor coordination and non-motor functions such as emotion, cognition and language. The excitatory and inhibitory neurons within the cerebellum originate from different distinct germinal zones and migrate through complex routes to assemble in a well-defined neuronal organization in the cerebellar cortex and nuclei. In this review article, the neuronal migration modes and pathways from germinal zones to the final position in the cerebellar cortex and nuclei will be described. The cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in cerebellar neuronal migration during development will also be reviewed. Finally, some diseases and animal models associated with defects in neuronal migration will be presented.

Myocyte Enhancer Factor 2c Regulates Dendritic Complexity and Connectivity of Cerebellar Purkinje Cells

Mef2c haploinsufficiency is implicated in behavioral deficits related to autism, schizophrenia, and intellectual disability. Although perturbations in the cerebellum, notably Purkinje cells, have been linked to these neurological disorders, the underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood. In this study, we investigated the roles of Mef2c in cerebellar Purkinje cells during the first three weeks of postnatal development. Our analysis revealed that in comparison to other members of the Mef2 family, Mef2c expression is limited to postnatal Purkinje cells. Because the role of Mef2c has not been assessed in GABAergic neurons, we set out to determine the functional significance of Mef2c by knocking down the expression of Mef2c selectively in Purkinje cells. We found that the loss of Mef2c expression during the first and second postnatal week results in an increase in dendritic arborization without impact on the general growth and migration of Purkinje cells. The influence of Mef2c on dendritic arborization persists throughout the first three weeks, but is most prominent during the first postnatal week suggesting a critical period of Mef2c activity. Additionally, the loss of Mef2c expression results in an increase in the number of spines accompanied by an increase in Gad67 and vGluT1 puncta and decrease in vGluT2 puncta. Thus, our results reveal the specific expression and functional relevance of Mef2c in developing Purkinje cells and offer insight to how disruption of the expression of Mef2c in a GABAergic neuronal subtype may lead to pathogenesis of cerebellar-associated disorders.

mGlu1 Receptors Monopolize the Synaptic Control of Cerebellar Purkinje Cells by Epigenetically Down-Regulating mGlu5 Receptors

In cerebellar Purkinje cells (PCs) type-1 metabotropic glutamate (mGlu1) receptors play a key role in motor learning and drive the refinement of synaptic innervation during postnatal development. The cognate mGlu5 receptor is absent in mature PCs and shows low expression levels in the adult cerebellar cortex. Here we found that mGlu5 receptors were heavily expressed by PCs in the early postnatal life, when mGlu1α receptors were barely detectable. The developmental decline of mGlu5 receptors coincided with the appearance of mGlu1α receptors in PCs, and both processes were associated with specular changes in CpG methylation in the corresponding gene promoters. It was the mGlu1 receptor that drove the elimination of mGlu5 receptors from PCs, as shown by data obtained with conditional mGlu1α receptor knockout mice and with targeted pharmacological treatments during critical developmental time windows. The suppressing activity of mGlu1 receptors on mGlu5 receptor was maintained in mature PCs, suggesting that expression of mGlu1α and mGlu5 receptors is mutually exclusive in PCs. These findings add complexity to the the finely tuned mechanisms that regulate PC biology during development and in the adult life and lay the groundwork for an in-depth analysis of the role played by mGlu5 receptors in PC maturation.

Bergmann glial Sonic hedgehog signaling activity is required for proper cerebellar cortical expansion and architecture

Neuronal-glial relationships play a critical role in the maintenance of central nervous system architecture and neuronal specification. A deeper understanding of these relationships can elucidate cellular cross-talk capable of sustaining proper development of neural tissues. In the cerebellum, cerebellar granule neuron precursors (CGNPs) proliferate in response to Purkinje neuron-derived Sonic hedgehog (Shh) before ultimately exiting the cell cycle and migrating radially along Bergmann glial fibers. However, the function of Bergmann glia in CGNP proliferation remains not well defined. Interestingly, the Hh pathway is also activated in Bergmann glia, but the role of Shh signaling in these cells is unknown. In this study, we show that specific ablation of Shh signaling using the tamoxifen-inducible TNC^YFP-CreER line to eliminate Shh pathway activator Smoothened in Bergmann glia is sufficient to cause severe cerebellar hypoplasia and a significant reduction in CGNP proliferation. TNC^YFP-CreER; Smo^F/- (Smo^CKO) mice demonstrate an obvious reduction in cerebellar size within two days of ablation of Shh signaling. Mutant cerebella have severely reduced proliferation and increased differentiation of CGNPs due to a significant decrease in Shh activity and concomitant activation of Wnt signaling in Smo^CKO CGNPs, suggesting that this pathway is involved in cross-talk with the Shh pathway in regulating CGNP proliferation. In addition, Purkinje cells are ectopically located, their dendrites stunted, and the Bergmann glial network disorganized. Collectively, these data demonstrate a previously unappreciated role for Bergmann glial Shh signaling activity in the proliferation of CGNPs and proper maintenance of cerebellar architecture.

Embryology

With the growing recognition of the extent and prevalence of human cerebellar disorders, an understanding of developmental programs that build the mature cerebellum is necessary. In this chapter we present an overview of the basic epochs and key molecular regulators of the developmental programs of cerebellar development. These include early patterning of the cerebellar territory, the genesis of cerebellar cells from multiple spatially distinct germinal zones, and the extensive migration and coordinated cellular rearrangements that result in the formation of the exquisitely foliated and laminated mature cerebellum. This knowledge base is founded on extensive analysis of animal models, particularly mice, due in large part to the ease of genetic manipulation of this important model organism. Since cerebellar structure and function are largely conserved across species, mouse cerebellar development is highly relevant to humans and has led to important insights into the developmental pathogenesis of human cerebellar disorders. Human fetal cerebellar development remains largely undescribed; however, several human-specific developmental features are known which are relevant to human disease and underline the importance of ongoing human fetal research.

Secretin Modulates the Postnatal Development of Mouse Cerebellar Cortex Via PKA- and ERK-dependent Pathways

Postnatal development of the cerebellum is critical for its intact function such as motor coordination and has been implicated in the pathogenesis of psychiatric disorders. We previously reported that deprivation of secretin (SCT) from cerebellar Purkinje neurons impaired motor coordination and motor learning function, while leaving the potential role of SCT in cerebellar development to be determined. SCT and its receptor (SCTR) were constitutively expressed in the postnatal cerebellum in a temporal and cell-specific manner. Using a SCT knockout mouse model, we provided direct evidence showing altered developmental patterns of Purkinje cells (PCs) and granular cells (GCs). SCT deprivation reduced the PC density, impaired the PC dendritic formation, induced accelerated GC migration and potentiated cerebellar apoptosis. Furthermore, our results indicated the involvement of protein kinase A (PKA) and extracellular signal regulated kinase (ERK) signaling pathways in SCT-mediated protective effects against neuronal apoptosis. Results of this study illustrated a novel function of SCT in the postnatal development of cerebellum, emphasizing the necessary role of SCT in cerebellar-related functions.

Lhx1/5 control dendritogenesis and spine morphogenesis of Purkinje cells via regulation of Espin

In the cerebellar cortex, Purkinje cells (PCs) receive signals from different inputs through their extensively branched dendrites and serve as an integration centre. Defects in the dendritic development of PCs thus disrupt cerebellar circuitry and cause ataxia. Here we report that specific inactivation of both Lhx1 and Lhx5 in postnatal PCs results in ataxic mutant mice with abnormal dendritic development. The PCs in the mutants have reduced expression of Espin, an F-actin cytoskeleton regulator. We show that Espin expression is transcriptionally activated by Lhx1/5. Downregulation of Espin leads to F-actin mislocalization, thereby impairing dendritogenesis and dendritic spine maturation in the PCs. The mutant PCs therefore fail to form proper synapses and show aberrant electrophysiological properties. By overexpressing Espin, we can successfully rescue the defects in the mutant PCs. Our findings suggest that Lhx1/5, through regulating Espin expression, control dendritogenesis and spine morphogenesis in postnatal PCs.

Purkinje cells (PCs) receive signals from different inputs through their extensively branched dendrites and dysregulation of this process leads to ataxia and other diseases. Here the authors show that the LIM-homeodomain transcription factors Lhx1 and Lhx5 govern dendritogenesis and dendritic spine morphogenesis in postnatal PCs through regulating Espin expression.

Genetic Investigation of Thyroid Hormone Receptor Function in the Developing and Adult Brain

Thyroid hormones exert a broad influence on brain development and function, which has been extensively studied over the years. Mouse genetics has brought an important contribution, allowing precise analysis of the interplay between TRα1 and TRβ1 nuclear receptors in neural cells. However, the exact contribution of each receptor, the possible intervention of nongenomic signaling, and the nature of the genetic program that is controlled by the receptors remain poorly understood.

MCT8 deficiency in Purkinje cells disrupts embryonic chicken cerebellar development

Inactivating mutations in the human SLC16A2 gene encoding the thyroid hormone transporter monocarboxylate transporter 8 (MCT8) result in the Allan-Herndon-Dudley syndrome accompanied by severe locomotor deficits. The underlying mechanisms of the associated cerebellar maldevelopment were studied using the chicken as a model. Electroporation of an MCT8-RNAi vector into the cerebellar anlage of a 3-day-old embryo allowed knockdown of MCT8 in Purkinje cell precursors. This resulted in the downregulation of the thyroid hormone-responsive gene RORα and the Purkinje cell-specific differentiation marker LHX1/5 at day 6. MCT8 knockdown also results in a smaller and less complex dendritic tree at day 18 suggesting a pivotal role of MCT8 for cell-autonomous Purkinje cell maturation. Early administration of the thyroid hormone analogue 3,5,3'-triiodothyroacetic acid partially rescued early Purkinje cell differentiation. MCT8-deficient Purkinje cells also induced non-autonomous effects as they led to a reduced granule cell precursor proliferation, a thinner external germinal layer and a loss of PAX6 expression. By contrast, at day 18, the external germinal layer thickness was increased, with an increase in presence of Axonin-1-positive post-mitotic granule cells in the initial stage of radial migration. The concomitant accumulation of presumptive migrating granule cells in the molecular layer, suggests that inward radial migration to the internal granular layer is stalled. In conclusion, early MCT8 deficiency in Purkinje cells results in both cell-autonomous and non-autonomous effects on cerebellar development and indicates that MCT8 expression is essential from very early stages of development, providing a novel insight into the ontogenesis of the Allan-Herndon-Dudley syndrome.

Morphological Plasticity of Emerging Purkinje Cells in Response to Exogenous VEGF

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is well known as the growth factor with wide-ranging functions even in the central nervous system (CNS). Presently, most attention is given to the investigation of its role in neuronal protection, growth and maturation processes, whereby most effects are mediated through VEGF receptor 2 (VEGFR-2). The purpose of our current study is to provide new insights into the impact of VEGF on immature and mature Purkinje cells (PCs) in accordance with maturity and related receptor expression. Therefore, to expand our knowledge of VEGF effects in PCs development and associated VEGFR-2 expression, we used cultivated organotypic cerebellar slice cultures in immunohistochemical or microinjection studies, followed by confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) and morphometric analysis. Additionally, we incorporated in our study the method of laser microdissection, followed by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). For the first time we could show the age-dependent VEGF sensitivity of PCs with the largest promoting effects being on dendritic length and cell soma size in neonatal and juvenile stages. Once mature, PCs were no longer susceptible to VEGF stimulation. Analysis of VEGFR-2 expression revealed its presence in PCs throughout development, which underlined its mediating functions in neuronal cells.

Loss of the golgin GM130 causes Golgi disruption, Purkinje neuron loss, and ataxia in mice

The Golgi apparatus lies at the heart of the secretory pathway where it is required for secretory trafficking and cargo modification. Disruption of Golgi architecture and function has been widely observed in neurodegenerative disease, but whether Golgi dysfunction is causal with regard to the neurodegenerative process, or is simply a manifestation of neuronal death, remains unclear. Here we report that targeted loss of the golgin GM130 leads to a profound neurological phenotype in mice. Global KO of mouse GM130 results in developmental delay, severe ataxia, and postnatal death. We further show that selective deletion of GM130 in neurons causes fragmentation and defective positioning of the Golgi apparatus, impaired secretory trafficking, and dendritic atrophy in Purkinje cells. These cellular defects manifest as reduced cerebellar size and Purkinje cell number, leading to ataxia. Purkinje cell loss and ataxia first appear during postnatal development but progressively worsen with age. Our data therefore indicate that targeted disruption of the mammalian Golgi apparatus and secretory traffic results in neuronal degeneration in vivo, supporting the view that Golgi dysfunction can play a causative role in neurodegeneration.

Consensus Paper: Cerebellar Development

The development of the mammalian cerebellum is orchestrated by both cell-autonomous programs and inductive environmental influences. Here, we describe the main processes of cerebellar ontogenesis, highlighting the neurogenic strategies used by developing progenitors, the genetic programs involved in cell fate specification, the progressive changes of structural organization, and some of the better-known abnormalities associated with developmental disorders of the cerebellum.

Early Disruption of Extracellular Pleiotrophin Distribution Alters Cerebellar Neuronal Circuit Development and Function

The cerebellum is a structure of the central nervous system involved in balance, motor coordination, and voluntary movements. The elementary circuit implicated in the control of locomotion involves Purkinje cells, which receive excitatory inputs from parallel and climbing fibers, and are regulated by cerebellar interneurons. In mice as in human, the cerebellar cortex completes its development mainly after birth with the migration, differentiation, and synaptogenesis of granule cells. These cellular events are under the control of numerous extracellular matrix molecules including pleiotrophin (PTN). This cytokine has been shown to regulate the morphogenesis of Purkinje cells ex vivo and in vivo via its receptor PTPζ. Since Purkinje cells are the unique output of the cerebellar cortex, we explored the consequences of their PTN-induced atrophy on the function of the cerebellar neuronal circuit in mice. Behavioral experiments revealed that, despite a normal overall development, PTN-treated mice present a delay in the maturation of their flexion reflex. Moreover, patch clamp recording of Purkinje cells revealed a significant increase in the frequency of spontaneous excitatory postsynaptic currents in PTN-treated mice, associated with a decrease of climbing fiber innervations and an abnormal perisomatic localization of the parallel fiber contacts. At adulthood, PTN-treated mice exhibit coordination impairment on the rotarod test associated with an alteration of the synchronization gait. Altogether these histological, electrophysiological, and behavior data reveal that an early ECM disruption of PTN composition induces short- and long-term defaults in the establishment of proper functional cerebellar circuit.

The Krüppel-Like Factor Dar1 Determines Multipolar Neuron Morphology

Neurons typically assume multipolar, bipolar, or unipolar morphologies. Little is known about the mechanisms underlying the development of these basic morphological types. Here, we show that the Krüppel-like transcription factor Dar1 determines the multipolar morphology of postmitotic neurons in Drosophila. Dar1 is specifically expressed in multipolar neurons and loss of dar1 gradually converts multipolar neurons into the bipolar or unipolar morphology without changing neuronal identity. Conversely, misexpression of Dar1 or its mammalian homolog in unipolar and bipolar neurons causes them to assume multipolar morphologies. Dar1 regulates the expression of several dynein genes and nuclear distribution protein C (nudC), which is an essential component of a specialized dynein complex that positions the nucleus in a cell. We further show that these genes are required for Dar1-induced multipolar neuron morphology. Dar1 likely functions as a terminal selector gene for the basic layout of neuron morphology by regulating both dendrite extension and the dendrite-nucleus coupling.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT

The three basic morphological types of neurons--unipolar, bipolar, and multipolar--are important for information processing and wiring of neural circuits. Little progress has been made toward understanding the molecular and cellular programs that generate these types since their discovery over a century ago. It is generally assumed that basic morphological types of neurons are determined by the number of dendrites growing out from the cell body. Here, we show that this model alone is insufficient. We introduce the positioning of nucleus as a critical factor in this process and report that the transcription factor Dar1 determines multipolar neuron morphology in postmitotic neurons by regulating genes involved in nuclear positioning.

RORα Regulates Multiple Aspects of Dendrite Development in Cerebellar Purkinje Cells In Vivo

The establishment of cell-type-specific dendritic arbors is fundamental for proper neural circuit formation. Here, using temporal- and cell-specific knock-down, knock-out, and overexpression approaches, we show that multiple aspects of the dendritic organization of cerebellar Purkinje cells (PCs) are controlled by a single transcriptional factor, retinoic acid-related orphan receptor-alpha (RORα), a gene defective in staggerer mutant mice. As reported earlier, RORα was required for regression of primitive dendrites before postnatal day 4 (P4). RORα was also necessary for PCs to form a single Purkinje layer from P0 to P4. The knock-down of RORα from P4 impaired the elimination of perisomatic dendrites and maturation of single stem dendrites in PCs at P8. Filopodia and spines were also absent in these PCs. The knock-down of RORα from P8 impaired the formation and maintenance of terminal dendritic branches of PCs at P14. Finally, even after dendrite formation was completed at P21, RORα was required for PCs to maintain dendritic complexity and functional synapses, but their mature innervation pattern by single climbing fibers was unaffected. Interestingly, overexpression of RORα in PCs at various developmental stages did not facilitate dendrite development, but had specific detrimental effects on PCs. Because RORα deficiency during development is closely related to the severity of spinocerebellar ataxia type 1, delineating the specific roles of RORα in PCs in vivo at different time windows during development and throughout adulthood would facilitate our understanding of the pathogenesis of cerebellar disorders. Significance statement: The genetic programs by which each neuron subtype develops and maintains dendritic arbors have remained largely unclear. This is partly because dendrite development is modulated dynamically by neuronal activities and interactions with local environmental cues in vivo. In addition, dendrites are formed and maintained by the balance between their growth and regression; the effects caused by the disruption of transcription factors during the early developmental stages could be masked by dendritic growth or regression in the later stages. Here, using temporal- and cell-specific knock-down, knock-out, and overexpression approaches in vivo, we show that multiple aspects of the dendritic organization of cerebellar Purkinje cells are controlled by a single transcriptional factor, retinoic acid-related orphan receptor alpha.

PRMT8 as a phospholipase regulates Purkinje cell dendritic arborization and motor coordination

The development of vertebrate neurons requires a change in membrane phosphatidylcholine (PC) metabolism. Although PC hydrolysis is essential for enhanced axonal outgrowth mediated by phospholipase D (PLD), less is known about the determinants of PC metabolism on dendritic arborization. We show that protein arginine methyltransferase 8 (PRMT8) acts as a phospholipase that directly hydrolyzes PC, generating choline and phosphatidic acid. We found that PRMT8 knockout mice (prmt8 (-/-)) displayed abnormal motor behaviors, including hindlimb clasping and hyperactivity. Moreover, prmt8 (-/-) mice and TALEN-induced zebrafish prmt8 mutants and morphants showed abnormal phenotypes, including the development of dendritic trees in Purkinje cells and altered cerebellar structure. Choline and acetylcholine levels were significantly decreased, whereas PC levels were increased, in the cerebellum of prmt8 (-/-) mice. Our findings suggest that PRMT8 acts both as an arginine methyltransferase and as a PC-hydrolyzing PLD that is essential for proper neurological functions.

Sox9 is critical for suppression of neurogenesis but not initiation of gliogenesis in the cerebellum

Background

The high mobility group (HMG) family transcription factor Sox9 is critical for induction and maintenance of neural stem cell pool in the central nervous system (CNS). In the spinal cord and retina, Sox9 is also the master regulator that defines glial fate choice by mediating the neurogenic-to-gliogenic fate switch. On the other hand, the genetic repertoire governing the maintenance and fate decision of neural progenitor pool in the cerebellum has remained elusive.

Results

By employing the Cre/loxP strategy, we specifically inactivated Sox9 in the mouse cerebellum. Unexpectedly, the self-renewal capacity and multipotency of neural progenitors at the cerebellar ventricular zone (VZ) were not perturbed upon Sox9 ablation. Instead, the mutants exhibited an increased number of VZ-derived neurons including Purkinje cells and GABAergic interneurons. Simultaneously, we observed continuous neurogenesis from Sox9-null VZ at late gestation, when normally neurogenesis ceases to occur and gives way for gliogenesis. Surprisingly, glial cell specification was not affected upon Sox9 ablation.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest Sox9 may mediate the neurogenic-to-gliogenic fate switch in mouse cerebellum by modulating the termination of neurogenesis, and therefore indicate a functional discrepancy of Sox9 between the development of cerebellum and other major neural tissues.

The RhoGEF DOCK10 is essential for dendritic spine morphogenesis

By regulating actin cytoskeleton dynamics, Rho GTPases and their activators RhoGEFs are implicated in various aspects of neuronal differentiation, including dendritogenesis and synaptogenesis. Purkinje cells (PCs) of the cerebellum, by developing spectacular dendrites covered with spines, represent an attractive model system in which to decipher the molecular signaling underlying these processes. To identify novel regulators of dendritic spine morphogenesis among members of the poorly characterized DOCK family of RhoGEFs, we performed gene expression profiling of fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS)-purified murine PCs at various stages of their postnatal differentiation. We found a strong increase in the expression of the Cdc42-specific GEF DOCK10. Depleting DOCK10 in organotypic cerebellar cultures resulted in dramatic dendritic spine defects in PCs. Accordingly, in mouse hippocampal neurons, depletion of DOCK10 or expression of a DOCK10 GEF-dead mutant led to a strong decrease in spine density and size. Conversely, overexpression of DOCK10 led to increased spine formation. We show that DOCK10 function in spinogenesis is mediated mainly by Cdc42 and its downstream effectors N-WASP and PAK3, although DOCK10 is also able to activate Rac1. Our global approach thus identifies an unprecedented function for DOCK10 as a novel regulator of dendritic spine morphogenesis via a Cdc42-mediated pathway.

In vivo analysis of Purkinje cell firing properties during postnatal mouse development

Purkinje cell activity is essential for controlling motor behavior. During motor behavior Purkinje cells fire two types of action potentials: simple spikes that are generated intrinsically and complex spikes that are induced by climbing fiber inputs. Although the functions of these spikes are becoming clear, how they are established is still poorly understood. Here, we used in vivo electrophysiology approaches conducted in anesthetized and awake mice to record Purkinje cell activity starting from the second postnatal week of development through to adulthood. We found that the rate of complex spike firing increases sharply at 3 wk of age whereas the rate of simple spike firing gradually increases until 4 wk of age. We also found that compared with adult, the pattern of simple spike firing during development is more irregular as the cells tend to fire in bursts that are interrupted by long pauses. The regularity in simple spike firing only reached maturity at 4 wk of age. In contrast, the adult complex spike pattern was already evident by the second week of life, remaining consistent across all ages. Analyses of Purkinje cells in alert behaving mice suggested that the adult patterns are attained more than a week after the completion of key morphogenetic processes such as migration, lamination, and foliation. Purkinje cell activity is therefore dynamically sculpted throughout postnatal development, traversing several critical events that are required for circuit formation. Overall, we show that simple spike and complex spike firing develop with unique developmental trajectories.

Neuronal somata and extrasomal compartments play distinct roles during synapse formation between Lymnaea neurons

Proper synapse formation is pivotal for all nervous system functions. However, the precise mechanisms remain elusive. Moreover, compared with the neuromuscular junction, steps regulating the synaptogenic program at central cholinergic synapses remain poorly defined. In this study, we identified different roles of neuronal compartments (somal vs extrasomal) in chemical and electrical synaptogenesis. Specifically, the electrically synapsed Lymnaea pedal dorsal A cluster neurons were used to study electrical synapses, whereas chemical synaptic partners, visceral dorsal 4 (presynaptic, cholinergic), and left pedal dorsal 1 (LPeD1; postsynaptic) were explored for chemical synapse formation. Neurons were cultured in a soma-soma or soma-axon configuration and synapses explored electrophysiologically. We provide the first direct evidence that electrical synapses develop in a soma-soma, but not soma-axon (removal of soma) configuration, indicating the requirement of gene transcription regulation in the somata of both synaptic partners. In addition, the soma-soma electrical coupling was contingent upon trophic factors present in Lymnaea brain-conditioned medium. Further, we demonstrate that chemical (cholinergic) synapses between soma-soma and soma-axon pairs were indistinguishable, with both exhibiting a high degree of contact site and target cell type specificity. We also provide direct evidence that presynaptic cell contact-mediated, clustering of postsynaptic cholinergic receptors at the synaptic site requires transmitter-receptor interaction, receptor internalization, and a protein kinase C-dependent lateral migration toward the contact site. This study provides novel insights into synaptogenesis between central neurons revealing both distinct and synergistic roles of cell-cell signaling and extrinsic trophic factors in executing the synaptogenic program.

MMP-2 mediates Purkinje cell morphogenesis and spine development in the mouse cerebellum

Matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) is a highly studied proteolytic enzyme, involved in many detrimental and beneficial functions throughout the body, and also active in the central nervous system (CNS). MMP-2 is profoundly expressed in the developing cerebellum and was recently reported to modulate granule cell proliferation by affecting cell cycle kinetics in cerebella of postnatal day 3 mouse pups. In this report, a two-dimensional difference gel electrophoresis proteomics study was implemented at this postnatal stage and revealed 16 differentially expressed proteins between MMP-2-deficient (MMP-2(-/-)) and wild-type cerebella. Among those, collapsin response mediator protein 1 (CRMP1) could be identified as the most significant differential protein between the two genotypes. Western blot experiments confirmed this finding and further disclosed a significant increase in phosphorylated CRMP1 expression in MMP-2(-/-) cerebella. Strikingly, subsequent immunohistochemical and microscopic analyses revealed an aberrant Purkinje cell (PC) dendritogenesis, possibly related to upregulated (phospho-) CRMP1 levels in these neonatal MMP-2(-/-) animals. Further, detailed morphometric analyses showed persistent PC morphological changes in MMP-2(-/-) mice, from the neonatal stage until adulthood. These were characterized by a reduced growth of PC somata, reduced dendritic tree sizes, and a decreased dendritic arborization. During development, the observed defects were accompanied by a temporarily disturbed parallel fiber and climbing fiber synaptic input on the PCs, while in adult MMP-2(-/-) animals, an increased PC spine density and reduced spine lengths were noted. The observed PC abnormalities might contribute to the mild defects in motor performance, i.e. balance and coordination, detected in adult MMP-2(-/-) mice. Overall, these findings indicate the importance of MMP-2 in CNS development and dendritogenesis, and highlight the importance of a correct developmental wiring for adult brain morphology and function.