HIV-1 and IL-1 beta regulate Fas ligand expression in human astrocytes through the NF-kappa B pathway

Effect of HIV-1 Protease Inhibitor on IL-18 and IL-1β in Rats with Insulinoma

This study is aimed at investigating the treatment effectiveness of HIV-1 protease inhibitor for rats with insulinoma and its effects on interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and interleukin-18 (IL-18). A total of 40 6-week-old nude mice were included in this study. We randomly assigned 20 rats for insulinoma modeling and divided them into model A and B groups. Another 20 rats were randomly divided into control A and B groups. Rats from the model A and control A groups were given HIV-1 protease inhibitors. The expression profiles of IL-18 and IL-1β, clinical indicators, water maze test results, oxidative stress damage, and changes in neurological functions in rats from each group were recorded. The expression levels of IL-18 and IL-1β, insulin level, the ratio of immunoreactive insulin to plasma glucose (IRI/G), escape latency, reactive oxygen species (ROS), and amyloid β-protein (Aβ) level were lower in the model A group than in the model B group while fasting blood glucose, platform crossing times, and superoxide dismutase (SOD) were higher in the model A group than in the model B group. The insulin level and hippocampus Aβ level were lower in the control A group than in the control B group. In contrast, other indicators in the control A group were not significantly different from those in the model B group. HIV-1 protease inhibitor is effective in the treatment of insulinoma in rats. It can significantly reduce IL-18 and IL-1β and protect the neurological functions in rats and has broad prospects for clinical application.

β-Catenin Regulates Wound Healing and IL-6 Expression in Activated Human Astrocytes

Reactive astrogliosis is prominent in most neurodegenerative disorders and is often associated with neuroinflammation. The molecular mechanisms regulating astrocyte-linked neuropathogenesis during injury, aging and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-associated neurocognitive disorders (HAND) are not fully understood. In this study, we investigated the implications of the wingless type (Wnt)/β-catenin signaling pathway in regulating astrocyte function during gliosis. First, we identified that HIV-associated inflammatory cytokines, interleukin (IL)-1β and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α induced mediators of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway including β-catenin and lymphoid enhancer-binding factor (LEF)-1 expression in astrocytes. Next, we investigated the regulatory role of β-catenin on primary aspects of reactive astrogliosis, including proliferation, migration and proinflammatory responses, such as IL-6. Knockdown of β-catenin impaired astrocyte proliferation and migration as shown by reduced cyclin-D1 levels, bromodeoxyuridine incorporation and wound healing. HIV-associated cytokines, IL-1β alone and in combination with TNF-α, strongly induced the expression of proinflammatory cytokines including C-C motif chemokine ligand (CCL)2, C-X-C motif chemokine ligand (CXCL)8 and IL-6; however, only IL-6 levels were regulated by β-catenin as demonstrated by knockdown and pharmacological stabilization. In this context, IL-6 levels were negatively regulated by β-catenin. To better understand this relationship, we examined the crossroads between β-catenin and nuclear factor (NF)-κB pathways. While NF-κB expression was significantly increased by IL-1β and TNF-α, NF-κB levels were not affected by β-catenin knockdown. IL-1β treatment significantly increased glycogen synthase kinase (GSK)-3β phosphorylation, which inhibits β-catenin degradation. Further, pharmacological inhibition of GSK-3β increased nuclear translocation of both β-catenin and NF-κB p65 into the nucleus in the absence of any other inflammatory stimuli. HIV+ human astrocytes show increased IL-6, β-catenin and NF-κB expression levels and are interconnected by regulatory associations during HAND. In summary, our study demonstrates that HIV-associated inflammation increases β-catenin pathway mediators to augment activated astrocyte responses including migration and proliferation, while mitigating IL-6 expression. These findings suggest that β-catenin plays an anti-inflammatory role in activated human astrocytes during neuroinflammatory pathologies, such as HAND.

Activated human astrocyte-derived extracellular vesicles modulate neuronal uptake, differentiation and firing

Astrocytes in the central nervous system (CNS) provide supportive neural functions and mediate inflammatory responses from microglia. Increasing evidence supports their critical roles in regulating brain homoeostasis in response to pro-inflammatory factors such as cytokines and pathogen/damage-associated molecular pattern molecules in infectious and neurodegenerative diseases. However, the underlying mechanisms of the trans-cellular communication are still unclear. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) can transfer a large diversity of molecules such as lipids, nucleic acids and proteins for cellular communications. The purpose of this study is to characterize the EVs cargo proteins derived from human primary astrocytes (ADEVs) under both physiological and pathophysiological conditions. ADEVs were isolated from human primary astrocytes after vehicle (CTL) or interleukin-1β (IL-1β) pre-treatment. Label-free quantitative proteomic profiling revealed a notable up-regulation of proteins including actin-associated molecules, integrins and major histocompatibility complex in IL-1β-ADEVs compared to CTL-ADEVs, which were involved in cellular metabolism and organization, cellular communication and inflammatory response. When fluorescently labelled ADEVs were added into primary cultured mouse cortical neurons, we found a significantly increased neuronal uptake of IL-1β-ADEVs compared to CTL-ADEVs. We further confirmed it is likely due to the enrichment of surface proteins in IL-1β-ADEVs, as IL-1β-ADEVs uptake by neurons was partially suppressed by a specific integrin inhibitor. Additionally, treatment of neurons with IL-1β-ADEVs also reduced neurite outgrowth, branching and neuronal firing. These findings provide insight for the molecular mechanism of the ADEVs' effects on neural uptake, neural differentiation and maturation, and its alteration in inflammatory conditions.

Zika virus propagation and release in human fetal astrocytes can be suppressed by neutral sphingomyelinase-2 inhibitor GW4869

Zika virus (ZIKV) is a neurotrophic flavivirus that is capable of infecting humans, leading to brain abnormalities during fetal development. The ZIKV infectivity in neural target cells remains poorly understood. Here, we found that ZIKV specifically infected glial fibrillary acidic protein- and S100B-positive primary human astrocytes derived from fetal brains. In contrast, neuron-specific Class III β-tubulin (TuJ1)-positive neurons in the astrocyte cultures and SOX2-positive neural progenitor cells derived from the fetal brains were less susceptible to ZIKV infection compared with astrocytes. The infected astrocytes released competent viral particles and manifested programmed cell death with a progressive cytopathic effect. Interestingly, ZIKV infection in human fetal astrocytes induced a significant increase of extracellular vesicles (EVs). Treatment with GW4869, a specific inhibitor of neutral sphingomyelinase-2, decreased EV levels, suppressed ZIKV propagation, and reduced the release of infectious virions in astrocytes. Therefore, ZIKV infects primary human fetal astrocytes and the infection can be suppressed by neutral sphingomyelinase-2 inhibitor GW4869. Further investigation into sphingomyelin metabolism and EVs may provide insights to the therapeutic treatment of ZIKV infection.

Cathelicidin-Derived Antimicrobial Peptides Inhibit Zika Virus Through Direct Inactivation and Interferon Pathway

Zika virus (ZIKV) is a neurotrophic flavivirus that is able to infect pregnant women and cause fetal brain abnormalities. Although there is a significant effort in identifying anti-ZIKV strategies, currently no vaccines or specific therapies are available to treat ZIKV infection. Antimicrobial peptides, which are potent host defense molecules in nearly all forms of life, have been found to be effective against several types of viruses such as HIV-1 and influenza A. However, they have not been tested in ZIKV infection. To determine whether antimicrobial peptides have anti-ZIKV effects, we used nine peptides mostly derived from human and bovine cathelicidins. Two peptides, GF-17 and BMAP-18, were found to have strong anti-ZIKV activities and little toxicity at 10 µM in an African green monkey kidney cell line. We further tested GF-17 and BMAP-18 in human fetal astrocytes, a known susceptible cell type for ZIKV, and found that GF-17 and BMAP-18 effectively inhibited ZIKV regardless of whether peptides were added before or after ZIKV infection. Interestingly, inhibition of type-I interferon signaling resulted in higher levels of ZIKV infection as measured by viral RNA production and partially reversed GF-17-mediated viral inhibition. More importantly, pretreatment with GF-17 and BMAP-18 did not affect viral attachment but reduced viral RNA early in the infection course. Direct incubation with GF-17 for 1 to 4 h specifically reduced the number of infectious Zika virions in the inoculum. In conclusion, these findings suggest that cathelicidin-derived antimicrobial peptides inhibit ZIKV through direct inactivation of the virus and via the interferon pathway. Strategies that harness antimicrobial peptides might be useful in halting ZIKV infection.

HIV-1, methamphetamine and astrocytes at neuroinflammatory Crossroads

As a popular psychostimulant, methamphetamine (METH) use leads to long-lasting, strong euphoric effects. While METH abuse is common in the general population, between 10 and 15% of human immunodeficiency virus-1 (HIV-1) patients report having abused METH. METH exacerbates the severity and onset of HIV-1-associated neurocognitive disorders (HAND) through direct and indirect mechanisms. Repetitive METH use impedes adherence to antiretroviral drug regimens, increasing the likelihood of HIV-1 disease progression toward AIDS. METH exposure also directly affects both innate and adaptive immunity, altering lymphocyte numbers and activity, cytokine signaling, phagocytic function and infiltration through the blood brain barrier. Further, METH triggers the dopamine reward pathway and leads to impaired neuronal activity and direct toxicity. Concurrently, METH and HIV-1 alter the neuroimmune balance and induce neuroinflammation, which modulates a wide range of brain functions including neuronal signaling and activity, glial activation, viral infection, oxidative stress, and excitotoxicity. Pathologically, reactive gliosis is a hallmark of both HIV-1- and METH-associated neuroinflammation. Significant commonality exists in the neurotoxic mechanisms for both METH and HAND; however, the pathways dysregulated in astroglia during METH exposure are less clear. Thus, this review highlights alterations in astrocyte intracellular signaling pathways, gene expression and function during METH and HIV-1 comorbidity, with special emphasis on HAND-associated neuroinflammation. Importantly, this review carefully evaluates interventions targeting astrocytes in HAND and METH as potential novel therapeutic approaches. This comprehensive overview indicates, without a doubt, that during HIV-1 infection and METH abuse, a complex dialog between all neural cells is orchestrated through astrocyte regulated neuroinflammation.

Astrocyte elevated gene-1 regulates astrocyte responses to neural injury: implications for reactive astrogliosis and neurodegeneration

BACKGROUND

Reactive astrogliosis is a ubiquitous but poorly understood hallmark of central nervous system pathologies such as trauma and neurodegenerative diseases. In vitro and in vivo studies have identified proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines as mediators of astrogliosis during injury and disease; however, the molecular mechanism remains unclear. In this study, we identify astrocyte elevated gene-1 (AEG-1), a human immunodeficiency virus 1 or tumor necrosis factor α-inducible oncogene, as a novel modulator of reactive astrogliosis. AEG-1 has engendered tremendous interest in the field of cancer research as a therapeutic target for aggressive tumors. However, little is known of its role in astrocytes and astrocyte-mediated diseases. Based on its oncogenic role in several cancers, here we investigate the AEG-1-mediated regulation of astrocyte migration and proliferation during reactive astrogliosis.

METHODS

An in vivo brain injury mouse model was utilized to show AEG-1 induction following reactive astrogliosis. In vitro wound healing and cell migration assays following AEG-1 knockdown were performed to analyze the role of AEG-1 in astrocyte migration. AEG-1-mediated regulation of astrocyte proliferation was assayed by quantifying the levels of cell proliferation markers, Ki67 and proliferation cell nuclear antigen, using immunocytochemistry. Confocal microscopy was used to evaluate nucleolar localization of AEG-1 in cultured astrocytes following injury.

RESULTS

The in vivo mouse model for brain injury showed reactive astrocytes with increased glial fibrillary acidic protein and AEG-1 colocalization at the wound site. AEG-1 knockdown in cultured human astrocytes significantly reduced astrocyte migration into the wound site and cell proliferation. Confocal analysis showed colocalization of AEG-1 to the nucleolus of injured cultured human astrocytes.

CONCLUSIONS

The present findings report for the first time the novel role of AEG-1 in mediating reactive astrogliosis and in regulating astrocyte responses to injury. We also report the nucleolar localization of AEG-1 in human astrocytes in response to injury. Future studies may be directed towards elucidating the molecular mechanism of AEG-1 action in astrocytes during reactive astrogliosis.

HIV-1, methamphetamine and astrocyte glutamate regulation: combined excitotoxic implications for neuro-AIDS

Glutamate, the most abundant excitatory transmitter in the brain can lead to neurotoxicity when not properly regulated. Excitotoxicity is a direct result of abnormal regulation of glutamate concentrations in the synapse, and is a common neurotoxic mediator associated with neurodegenerative disorders. It is well accepted that methamphetamine (METH), a potent central nervous stimulant with high abuse potential, and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-1 are implicated in the progression of neurocognitive malfunction. Both have been shown to induce common neurodegenerative effects such as astrogliosis, compromised blood brain barrier integrity, and excitotoxicity in the brain. Reduced glutamate uptake from neuronal synapses likely leads to the accumulation of glutamate in the extracellular spaces. Astrocytes express the glutamate transporters responsible for majority of the glutamate uptake from the synapse, as well as for vesicular glutamate release. However, the cellular and molecular mechanisms of astrocyte-mediated excitotoxicity in the context of METH and HIV-1 are undefined. Topics reviewed include dysregulation of the glutamate transporters, specifically excitatory amino acid transporter-2, metabotropic glutamate receptor(s) expression and the release of glutamate by vesicular exocytosis. We also discuss glutamate concentration dysregulation through astrocytic expression of enzymes for glutamate synthesis and metabolism. Lastly, we discuss recent evidence of various astrocyte and neuron crosstalk mechanisms implicated in glutamate regulation. Astrocytes play an essential role in the neuropathologies associated with METH/HIV-1-induced excitotoxicity. We hope to shed light on common cellular and molecular pathways astrocytes share in glutamate regulation during drug abuse and HIV-1 infection.

Molecular mechanisms of HIV-1 infection in neonatal target cells

HIV-1-infected neonates and infants have a higher viral load and progress to symptomatic AIDS more rapidly than their own infected mothers, as well as other infected adults, with differences in clinical manifestations, recurrent bacterial infections and CNS disorders. Two major reasons have been attributed to this differential HIV pathogenesis and disease; the relative immaturity of the neonate’s immune system and it’s inability to contain the highly replicating and mutating HIV-1, and the more efficient replication of HIV-1 in neonatal cells than in adult target cells. In this context, it has been demonstrated that HIV-1 replicates more efficiently in neonatal (cord) blood monocytes/macrophages and T lymphocytes – including naive and memory T lymphocytes – compared with adult blood cells. We have also determined the mechanisms of the differential HIV-1 replication in cord versus adult blood monocytes/macrophages and T lymphocytes (naive and memory), finding that it was influenced at the level of HIV-1 gene expression. The increased HIV-1 gene expression in neonatal versus adult target cells was regulated by differential expression of host factors, transcription factors (NF-κB, E2F, HAT-1, TFIIE, Cdk9 and Cyclin T1), signal transducers (STAT3 and STAT5A) and cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6 and IL-10). We also showed that nuclear extracts from cord cells interacted with HIV-1 long terminal repeat cis-acting sequences, including NF-κB, NFAT, AP1 and NF-IL6, to a greater extent when compared with adult peripheral blood mononuclear cell nuclear extracts. Additionally, shRNA of retroviral origin for STAT3 and IL-6 downregulated both their own gene expression as well as that of HIV-1, indicating that these factors influenced the differential expression of HIV-1 genes in cord cells compared with adult cells. In addition, HIV-1 integration plays an important role in differential HIV-1 replication and gene expression in neonatal versus adult cells by integrating into more actively transcribed genes in neonates compared with adults. We characterized 468 HIV-1 integration sites within cord and adult blood T lymphocytes and monocytes/macrophages, including genes coding for cellular components, and those involved with maintenance of the intracellular environment, enzyme regulation, cellular metabolism, catalytic activity and cation transport, as well as several potential transcription factor binding sites at the sites of integration. Additionally, the genes at the integration sites, transcription factors and transcription binding sites were expressed at higher levels in cord than adult target cells. In summary, the increased HIV-1 gene expression and replication in neonatal target cells due to differential expression of host factors all contribute to an increased viral load and faster disease progression in neonates and infants when compared with similar situations in adult patients. Based on these findings, it may be possible to identify new viral and host targets for use in developing strategies for the treatment and prevention of HIV-1.

Mitochondrial glutaminase release contributes to glutamate-mediated neurotoxicity during human immunodeficiency virus-1 infection

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) induces a neurological disease culminating in frank dementia referred to as HIV-associated dementia (HAD). Neurotoxins from HIV-1-infected and activated mononuclear phagocytes contribute to the neuropathogenesis of HAD. Glutamate is the predominant excitatory neurotransmitter in the mammalian central nervous system (CNS) and functions through activation of multiple receptors. Excessive glutamate production by HIV-infected macrophages in HAD may contribute to neuronal injury. Our previous studies have suggested that mitochondrial glutaminase is responsible for the excessive production of glutamate. However, how HIV-1 infection regulates glutamate over-production remains unclear. In this study, we propose that HIV infection-induced oxidative stress contributes to mitochondrial glutaminase release, which results in the excessive production of glutamate and subsequent neuronal injury. We collected conditioned media from HIV-1 infected macrophages and analyzed glutamate concentration in the media by RP-HPLC, and found that the cyclosporine A (CsA), an inhibitor of HIV-1 replication and mitochondrial permeability transition pore, and N-acetylcysteine (NAC), a remover of reactive oxygen species (ROS), not only blocked the excessive glutamate production, but also decreased the glutamate-mediated neurotoxicity. In addition, HIV-infection-induced ROS generation was accompanied with the excessive glutamate production, suggesting that oxidative stress was involved in glutamate regulation. Using the isolated rat brain mitochondria as an ex vivo model and over-expressing GFP-glutaminase fusion protein in mammalian cells as a cell model, we confirm oxidative stress-mediated mitochondrial glutaminase release during HIV-1 infection contributes to glutamate over-production and the subsequent neurotoxicity. These results may provide insight into HAD pathogenesis and a therapeutic strategy for HAD treatment.

HIV-1 and IL-1β regulate astrocytic CD38 through mitogen-activated protein kinases and nuclear factor-κB signaling mechanisms

Background

Infection with human immunodeficiency virus type-1 (HIV)-1 leads to some form of HIV-1-associated neurocognitive disorders (HAND) in approximately half of the cases. The mechanisms by which astrocytes contribute to HIV-1-associated dementia (HAD), the most severe form of HAND, still remain unresolved. HIV-1-encephalitis (HIVE), a pathological correlate of HAD, affects an estimated 9-11% of the HIV-1-infected population. Our laboratory has previously demonstrated that HIVE brain tissues show significant upregulation of CD38, an enzyme involved in calcium signaling, in astrocytes. We also reported an increase in CD38 expression in interleukin (IL)-1β-activated astrocytes. In the present investigation, we studied regulatory mechanisms of CD38 gene expression in astrocytes activated with HIV-1-relevant stimuli. We also investigated the role of mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) and nuclear factor (NF)-κB in astrocyte CD38 regulation.

Methods

Cultured human astrocytes were transfected with HIV-1_YU-2 proviral clone and levels of CD38 mRNA and protein were measured by real-time PCR gene expression assay, western blot analysis and immunostaining. Astrocyte activation by viral transfection was determined by analyzing proinflammatory chemokine levels using ELISA. To evaluate the roles of MAPKs and NF-κB in CD38 regulation, astrocytes were treated with MAPK inhibitors (SB203580, SP600125, U0126), NF-κB interfering peptide (SN50) or transfected with dominant negative IκBα mutant (IκBαM) prior to IL-1β activation. CD38 gene expression and CD38 ADP-ribosyl cyclase activity assays were performed to analyze alterations in CD38 levels and function, respectively.

Results

HIV-1_YU-2-transfection significantly increased CD38 mRNA and protein expression in astrocytes (p < 0.01) in a dose-dependent manner and induced astrocyte activation. IL-β-activation of HIV-1_YU-2-transfected astrocytes significantly increased HIV-1 gene expression (p < 0.001). Treatment with MAPK inhibitors or NF-κB inhibitor SN50 abrogated IL-1β-induced CD38 expression and activity in astrocytes without altering basal CD38 levels (p < 0.001). IκBαM transfection also significantly inhibited IL-1β-mediated increases in CD38 expression and activity in astrocytes (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

The present findings demonstrate a direct involvement of HIV-1 and virus-induced proinflammatory stimuli in regulating astrocyte-CD38 levels. HIV-1_YU-2-transfection effectively induced HIV-1p24 protein expression and activated astrocytes to upregulate CCL2, CXCL8 and CD38. In astrocytes, IL-1β-induced increases in CD38 levels were regulated through the MAPK signaling pathway and by the transcription factor NF-κB. Future studies may be directed towards understanding the role of CD38 in response to infection and thus its role in HAND.

Reprogrammed mouse astrocytes retain a "memory" of tissue origin and possess more tendencies for neuronal differentiation than reprogrammed mouse embryonic fibroblasts

Direct reprogramming of a variety of somatic cells with the transcription factors Oct4 (also called Pou5f1), Sox2 with either Klf4 and Myc or Lin28 and Nanog generates the induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) with marker similarity to embryonic stem cells. However, the difference between iPSCs derived from different origins is unclear. In this study, we hypothesized that reprogrammed cells retain a "memory" of their origins and possess additional potential of related tissue differentiation. We reprogrammed primary mouse astrocytes via ectopic retroviral expression of OCT3/4, Sox2, Klf4 and Myc and found the iPSCs from mouse astrocytes expressed stem cell markers and formed teratomas in SCID mice containing derivatives of all three germ layers similar to mouse embryonic stem cells besides semblable morphologies. To test our hypothesis, we compared embryonic bodies (EBs) formation and neuronal differentiation between iPSCs from mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFsiPSCs) and iPSCs from mouse astrocytes (mAsiPSCs). We found that mAsiPSCs grew slower and possessed more potential for neuronal differentiation compared to MEFsiPSCs. Our results suggest that mAsiPSCs retain a "memory" of the central nervous system, which confers additional potential upon neuronal differentiation.

Soluble factors from IL-1β-stimulated astrocytes activate NR1a/NR2B receptors: implications for HIV-1-induced neurodegeneration

Astrocytes play an important role in astrocyte-neuron homeostasis. In HIV-1-infected brain, interleukin 1 beta (IL-1β) activation of astrocytes contributes to neurodegeneration. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying IL-1β-activated-astrocytes-induced neurodegeneration in HIV-1-infected brain are largely unknown. We hypothesize that secretory factors from the activated astrocytes affect N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptor, a major pathway implicated in HIV-1-associated neurodegeneration. To test this hypothesis, we studied effects of IL-1β-stimulated astrocyte conditioned medium (ACM+) for its ability to activate NR1a/NR2B receptors expressed on Xenopus oocytes. Astrocytes treated with IL-1β 20ng/ml for 24h induced CXCL8, CCL2, MMP1 and MMP7. Pressure ejection of the ACM(+) produced an inward current in NR1a/NR2B-expressing oocytes. The inward current produced by ACM(+) was blocked by NMDA receptor antagonist, APV but not by non-NMDA receptor antagonist, CNQX. These results suggest that IL-1β stimulated astrocytes activate NR1a/NR2B receptors which may have implications in HIV-1-associated neurodegeneration.

E2F1 localizes predominantly to neuronal cytoplasm and fails to induce expression of its transcriptional targets in human immunodeficiency virus-induced neuronal damage

As human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) does not induce neuronal damage by direct infection, the mechanisms of neuronal damage or loss in HIV-associated dementia (HAD) remain unclear. We have shown previously that immunoreactivity of transcription factor, E2F1, increases in neurons, localizing predominantly to the cytoplasm, in HIV-associated pathologies. Here we confirm that E2F1 localization is predominantly cytoplasmic in primary postmitotic neurons in vitro and cortical neurons in vivo. To determine whether E2F1 contributes to neuronal death in HAD via transactivation of target promoters, we assessed the mRNA and protein levels of several classical E2F1 transcriptional targets implicated in cell cycle progression and apoptosis in an in vitro model of HIV-induced neurotoxicity and in cortical autopsy tissue from patients infected with HIV. By Q-PCR, we show that mRNA levels of E2F1 transcriptional targets implicated in cell cycle progression (E2F1, Cyclin A, proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), and dyhydrofolate reductase (DHFR)) and apoptosis (caspases 3, 8, 9 and p19(ARF)) remain unchanged in an in vitro model of HIV-induced neurotoxicity. Further, we show that protein levels of p19(ARF), Cyclin A, and PCNA are not altered in vitro or in the cortex of patients with HAD. We propose that the predominantly cytoplasmic localization of E2F1 in neurons may account for the lack of E2F1 target transactivation in neurons responding to HIV-induced neurotoxicity.

Regulation of multidrug resistance protein 1 by tumor necrosis factor alpha in cultured glial cells: involvement of nuclear factor-kappaB and c-Jun N-terminal kinase signaling pathways

Pharmacotherapy of brain HIV-1 infection may be limited by ABC transporters [i.e., P-glycoprotein (P-gp), multidrug resistance protein 1 (Mrp1)] that export antiretroviral drugs from HIV-1 brain cellular targets (i.e., astrocytes, microglia). Using an in vitro astrocyte model of an HIV-1 associated inflammatory response, our laboratory has shown that cytokines [i.e., tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha), interleukin (IL)-1 beta, IL-6], which are secreted in response to HIV-1 envelope glycoprotein gp120 exposure, can decrease P-gp functional expression; however, it is unknown whether these same cytokines can alter expression and/or activity of other ABC transporters (i.e., Mrp1). In primary cultures of rat astrocytes, Mrp1 expression was increased by TNF-alpha (2.7-fold) but was not altered by IL-1 beta or IL-6. Cellular retention of 2',7'-bis-(2-carboxyethyl)-5-(and-6)-carboxyfluorescein, an Mrp substrate, was reduced in TNF-alpha-treated astrocytes, suggesting increased Mrp-mediated transport. Pharmacologic inhibition of nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-kappaB) signaling with SN50 prevented both TNF-alpha release and Mrp1 expression changes in astrocytes triggered with gp120; however, SN50 did not attenuate Mrp1 expression in cells triggered with TNF-alpha. In contrast, Mrp1 functional expression was not altered in the presence of gp120 or TNF-alpha when astrocyte cultures were pretreated with 1,9-pyrazoloanthrone (SP600125), an established c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) inhibitor. SP600125 did not affect TNF-alpha release from cultured astrocytes triggered with gp120. Mrp1 mRNA expression was increased after treatment with gp120 (1.6-fold) or TNF-alpha (1.7-fold), suggesting altered Mrp1 gene transcription. These data suggest that gp120 and TNF-alpha can up-regulate Mrp1 expression in cultured astrocytes. Furthermore, our results imply that both NF-kappaB and JNK signaling are involved in Mrp1 regulation during an HIV-1 associated inflammatory response.

Differential expression and interaction of host factors augment HIV-1 gene expression in neonatal mononuclear cells

We have previously shown a higher level of HIV-1 replication and gene expression in neonatal (cord) blood mononuclear cells (CBMC) compared with adult blood cells (PBMC), which could be due to differential expression of host factors. We performed the gene expression profile of CBMC and PBMC and found that 8013 genes were expressed at higher levels in CBMC than PBMC and 8028 genes in PBMC than CBMC, including 1181 and 1414 genes upregulated after HIV-1 infection in CBMC and PBMC, respectively. Several transcription factors (NF-kappaB, E2F, HAT-1, TFIIE, Cdk9, Cyclin T1), signal transducers (STAT3, STAT5A) and cytokines (IL-1beta, IL-6, IL-10) were upregulated in CBMC than PBMC, which are known to influence HIV-1 replication. In addition, a repressor of HIV-1 transcription, YY1, was down regulated in CBMC than PBMC and several matrix metalloproteinase (MMP-7, -12, -14) were significantly upregulated in HIV-1 infected CBMC than PBMC. Furthermore, we show that CBMC nuclear extracts interacted with a higher extent to HIV-1 LTR cis-acting sequences, including NF-kappaB, NFAT, AP1 and NF-IL6 compared with PBMC nuclear extracts and retroviral based short hairpin RNA (shRNA) for STAT3 and IL-6 down regulated their own and HIV-1 gene expression, signifying that these factors influenced differential HIV-1 gene expression in CBMC than PBMC.

CD38 regulation in activated astrocytes: implications for neuroinflammation and HIV-1 brain infection

Reactive astrogliosis is a key pathological aspect of neuroinflammatory disorders including human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1)-associated neurological disease. On the basis of previous data that showedastrocytes activated with interleukin (IL)-1beta induce neuronal injury, we analyzed global gene changes in IL-1beta-activated human astrocytes by gene microarray. Among the up-regulated genes, CD38, a 45-kDa type II single chain transmembrane glycoprotein, was a top candidate, with a 17.24-fold change that was validated by real-time polymerase chain reaction. Key functions of CD38 include enzymatic activities and involvement in adhesion and cell signaling. Importantly, CD38(+)CD8(+) T-cell expression is a clinical correlate for progression of HIV-1 infection and biological marker for immune activation. Thus, CD38 expression in HIV-1 and/or IL-1beta-stimulated human astrocytes and human brain tissues was analyzed. IL-1beta and HIV-1 activation of astrocytes enhanced CD38 mRNA levels. Both CD38 immunoreactivity and adenosine 5'-diphosphate (ADP)-ribosyl cyclase activity were up-regulated in IL-1beta-activated astrocytes. CD38 knockdown using specific siRNAs significantly reduced astrocyte proinflammatory cytokine and chemokine production. However, CD38 mRNA levels were unchanged in IL-1beta knockdown conditions, suggesting that IL-1beta autocrine loop is not implicated in this process. Quantitative immunohistochemical analysis of HIV-seropositive without encephalitis and HIV-1 encephalitis brain tissues showed significant up-regulation of CD38, which colocalized with glial fibrillary acidic protein-positive cells in areas of inflammation. These results suggest an important role of CD38 in the regulation of astrocyte dysfunction during the neuroinflammatory processes involved in neurodegenerative/neuroinflammatory disorders such as HIV-1 encephalitis.

Fas-mediated apoptotic signaling in the mouse brain following reovirus infection

Type 3 (T3) reovirus strains induce apoptotic neuronal cell death and lethal encephalitis in infected mice. T3 strain Dearing (T3D)-induced apoptosis in primary neuronal cultures occurs by a Fas-mediated mechanism and requires the activation of caspase 8. We now show that Fas mRNA is upregulated in the brains of mice infected with encephalitic reovirus T3D and T3 strain Abney (T3A) but not following infection with nonencephalitic reovirus type 1 strain Lang. Fas is upregulated in regions of the brain that are injured during infection with T3 reovirus strains and colocalizes with virus antigen in individual neurons. In contrast, levels of FasL mRNA induced by encephalitic and nonencephalitic reovirus strains do not differ significantly. Caspase 8, the initiator caspase associated with Fas-mediated apoptosis, is activated in the cortex and hippocampal regions of both T3D- and T3A-infected mice. Furthermore, Bid cleavage and the activation of caspase 9 in the brains of T3D-infected mice suggest that the caspase 8-dependent activation of mitochondrial apoptotic signaling contributes to virus-induced apoptosis. We have previously shown that the inhibition of c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) signaling blocks T3D-induced apoptosis and improves the outcome of virus-induced encephalitis. We now show that the reovirus-induced upregulation of Fas requires JNK signaling, thereby providing a link between reovirus-induced death receptor signaling and mitogen-activated protein kinase pathways and a potential mechanism for the therapeutic action of JNK inhibition.

CD38/cyclic ADP-ribose regulates astrocyte calcium signaling: implications for neuroinflammation and HIV-1-associated dementia

CD38 is a 45-kD ectoenzyme involved in the synthesis of potent calcium (Ca(2+))-mobilizing agents, cyclic adenosine diphosphate-ribose (cADPR), and nicotinic acid adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NAADP+). In HIV-1-infected patients, increased CD38 expression on CD8+ T cells is linked to immune system activation and progression of HIV-1 infection. However, the role of CD38 upregulation in astrocyte function and HIV-1-associated dementia (HAD-now called HAND: HIV-1-associated neurocognitive disorder) neuropathogenesis is unclear. To these ends, we used interleukin (IL)-1beta and HIV-1gp120 to activate primary human astrocytes and measured CD38 expression using real-time polymerase chain reaction and CD38 function by ADP-ribosyl cyclase activity. We also determined cADPR-mediated changes in single-cell intracellular Ca(2+) transients in activated astrocytes in presence or absence of ethylene glycol tetraacetic acid. CD38 levels were downregulated using CD38 small-interfering RNA (siRNA) and intracellular Ca(2+) concentration ([Ca(2+)](i)) was measured. We previously reported a approximately 20-fold rise in CD38 messenger RNA levels in IL-1beta-activated astrocytes. We extend this observation and report that HIV-1gp120 potentiated CD38 expression in a dose-dependent manner and also increased CD38 enzyme activity in control and IL-1beta-activated astrocytes. We demonstrate higher cADPR levels in IL-1beta-activated astrocytes with a corresponding rise in [Ca(2+)](i) upon cADPR application and its non-hydrolysable analog, 3-deaza-cADPR. In activated astrocytes, pre-treatment with the cADPR-specific antagonist 8-Br-cADPR and CD38 siRNA transfection returned elevated [Ca(2+)](i) to baseline, thus confirming a CD38-cADPR specific response. These data are important for unraveling the mechanisms underlying the role of astrocyte-CD38 in HAD and have broader implications in other inflammatory diseases involving astrocyte activation and CD38 dysregulation.

The type 1 interleukin 1 receptor is not required for the death of murine hippocampal dentate granule cells and microglia activation

Alterations in inflammatory process, neuronal death, and glia response have been observed under manipulation of interleukin-1 (IL-1) and subsequent signaling through the type 1 IL-1 receptor (IL-1R1). To investigate the influence of IL-1R1 activation in the pathophysiology of a chemical-induced injury to the murine hippocampus, we examined the level and pattern of neuronal death and neuroinflammation in male weanling mice exposed to trimethyltin hydroxide (2.0 mg TMT/kg, i.p.). Dentate granule cell death occurred at 6 h post-TMT as detected by active caspase 3 immunostaining and presence of lectin positive microglia. The severity of neuronal death and microglia response increased by 12-24 h with elevations in mRNA levels for TNFalpha and IL-1alpha. In IL-1R1 null (IL-1R1-/-) mice, the pattern and severity of neuronal death at 24 or 72 h post-TMT was similar as compared to wildtype (WT) mice. In both groups, mRNA levels for TNFalpha and MIP-1alpha were elevated, no significant change was seen in either IL-1alpha or IL-1beta, and the early activation of microglia, including their ability to progress to a phagocytic phenotype, was maintained. Compared to WT mice, IL-1R1-/- mice displayed a limited glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) astrocytic response, as well as a preferential induction in mRNA levels of Fas signaling components. Cumulatively, these results indicate that IL-1R1 activation is not necessary for TMT-induced death of dentate granule neurons or local activation of microglia; however, IL-1R1 signaling is involved in mediating the structural response of astrocytes to injury and may regulate apoptotic mechanisms via Fas signaling components.

Activation of cyclin-dependent kinase 5 by calpains contributes to human immunodeficiency virus-induced neurotoxicity

Although the specific mechanism of neuronal damage in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) -associated dementia is not known, a prominent role for NMDA receptor (NMDAR)-induced excitotoxicity has been demonstrated in neurons exposed to HIV-infected/activated macrophages. We hypothesized NMDAR-mediated activation of the calcium-dependent protease, calpain, would contribute to cell death by induction of cyclin-dependent kinase 5 (CDK5) activity. Using an in vitro model of HIV neurotoxicity, in which primary rat cortical cultures are exposed to supernatants from primary human HIV-infected macrophages, we have observed increased calpain-dependent cleavage of the CDK5 regulatory subunit, p35, to the constitutively active isoform, p25. Formation of p25 is dependent upon NMDAR activation and calpain activity and is coincident with increased CDK5 activity in this model. Further, inhibition of CDK5 by roscovitine provided neuroprotection in our in vitro model. Consistent with our observations in vitro, we have observed a significant increase in calpain activity and p25 levels in midfrontal cortex of patients infected with HIV, particularly those with HIV-associated cognitive impairment. Taken together, our data suggest calpain activation of CDK5, a pathway activated in HIV-infected individuals, can mediate neuronal damage and death in a model of HIV-induced neurotoxicity.

Modulation of interleukin-1beta mediated inflammatory response in human astrocytes by flavonoids: implications in neuroprotection

The proinflammatory cytokine interleukin-1beta (IL-1beta) contributes to inflammation and neuronal death in CNS injuries and neurodegenerative pathologies, and astrocytes have been implicated as the primary mediators of IL-1beta induced neuronal death. As astrocytes play an important role in supporting the survival and functions of neurons, we investigated the effect of plant flavonoids quercetin and luteolin, with known anti-inflammatory properties in modulating the response of human astrocytes to IL-1beta for therapeutic intervention. Flavonoids significantly decreased the release of reactive oxygen species (ROS) from astrocytes stimulated with IL-1beta. This decrease was accompanied by an increase in expression of superoxide dismutase (SOD-1) and thioredoxin (TRX1)-mediators associated with protection against oxidative stress. Flavonoids not only modulated the expression of astrocytes specific molecules such as glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), glutamine synthetase (GS), and ceruloplasmin (CP) both in the presence and absence of IL-1beta but also decreased the elevated levels of proinflammatory cytokine interleukin-6 (IL-6) and chemokines interleukin-8 (IL-8), interferon-inducible protein (IP-10), monocyte-chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1), and RANTES from IL-1beta activated astrocytes. Significant decrease in neuronal apoptosis was observed in neurons cultured in conditioned medium obtained from astrocytes treated with a combination of IL-1beta and flavonoids as compared to that treated with IL-1beta alone. Our result suggests that by (i) enhancing the potential of activated astrocytes to detoxify free radical, (ii) reducing the expression of proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines, and (iii) modulating expression of mediators associated with enhanced physiological activity of astrocyte in response to injury, flavonoids confer (iv) protection against IL-1beta induced astrocyte mediated neuronal damage.

HIV-1-infected and/or immune activated macrophages regulate astrocyte SDF-1 production through IL-1beta

Stromal cell-derived factor 1 alpha (SDF-1alpha) and its receptor CXCR4 play important roles in the pathogenesis of human immunodeficiency virus type one (HIV-1)-associated dementia (HAD) by serving as a HIV-1 co-receptor and affecting cell migration, virus-mediated neurotoxicity, and neurodegeneration. However, the underlying mechanisms regulating SDF-1 production during disease are not completely understood. In this report we investigated the role of HIV-1 infected and immune competent macrophage, the principal target cell and mediator of neuronal injury and death in HAD, in regulating SDF-1 production by astrocytes. Our data demonstrated that astrocytes are the primary cell type expressing SDF-1 in the brain. Immune-activated or HIV-1-infected human monocyte-derived-macrophage (MDM) conditioned media (MCM) induced a substantial increase in SDF-1 production by human astrocytes. This SDF-1 production was directly dependent on MDM IL-1beta following both viral and immune activation. The MCM-induced production of SDF-1 was prevented by IL-1beta receptor antagonist (IL-1Ra) and IL-1beta siRNA treatment of human MDM. These laboratory observations were confirmed in severe combined immunodeficient (SCID) mice with HIV-1 encephalitis (HIVE). In these HIVE mice, reactive astrocytes showed a significant increase in SDF-1 expression, as observed by immunocytochemical staining. Similarly, SDF-1 mRNA levels were increased in the encephalitic region as measured by real time RT-PCR, and correlated with IL-1beta mRNA expression. These observations provide direct evidence that IL-1beta, produced from HIV-1-infected and/or immune competent macrophage, induces production of SDF-1 by astrocytes, and as such contribute to ongoing SDF-1 mediated CNS regulation during HAD.

Immune privilege and HIV-1 persistence in the CNS

Human immunodeficiency virus-1 (HIV-1) neuroinvasion occurs early (during period of initial viremia), leading to infection of a limited amount of susceptible cells with low CD4 expression. Protective cellular and humoral immunity eliminate and suppress viral replication relatively quickly due to peripheral immune responses and the low level of initial central nervous system (CNS) infection. Upregulation of the brain protective mechanisms against lymphocyte entry and survival (related to immune privilege) helps reduce viral load in the brain. The local immune compartment dictates local viral evolution as well as selection of cytotoxic lymphocytes and immunoglobulin G specificity. Such status can be sustained until peripheral immune anti-viral responses fail. Activation of microglia and astrocytes, due to local or peripheral triggers, increases chemokine production, enhances traffic of infected cells into the CNS, upregulates viral replication in resident brain macrophages, and significantly augments the spread of viral species. The combination of these factors leads to the development of HIV-1 encephalitis-associated neurocognitive decline and patient death. Understanding the immune-privileged state created by virus, the brain microenvironment, and the ability to enhance anti-viral immunity offer new therapeutic strategies for treatment of HIV-1 CNS infection.

A functional transsulfuration pathway in the brain links to glutathione homeostasis

Oxidative stress and diminished glutathione pools play critical roles in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer and Parkinson disease. Synthesis of glutathione, the most abundant mammalian antioxidant, is regulated at the substrate level by cysteine, which is synthesized from homocysteine via the transsulfuration pathway. Elevated homocysteine and diminished glutathione levels, seen in Alzheimer and Parkinson disease patients suggest impairments in the transsulfuration pathway that connects these metabolites. However, the very existence of this metabolic pathway in the brain is a subject of controversy. The product of the first of two enzymes in this pathway, cystathionine, is present at higher levels in brain as compared with other organs. This, together with the reported absence of the second enzyme, gamma-cystathionase, has led to the suggestion that the transsulfuration pathway is incomplete in the brain. In this study, we incubated mouse and human neurons and astrocytes and murine brain slices in medium with [35S]methionine and detected radiolabel incorporation into glutathione. This label transfer was sensitive to inhibition of gamma-cystathionase. In adult brain slices, approximately 40% of the glutathione was depleted within 10 h following gamma-cystathionase inhibition. In cultured human astrocytes, flux through the transsulfuration pathway increased under oxidative stress conditions, and blockade of this pathway led to reduced cell viability under oxidizing conditions. This study establishes the presence of an intact transsulfuration pathway and demonstrates its contribution to glutathione-dependent redox-buffering capacity under ex vivo conditions in brain cells and slices.

Neuropathologic and neuroinflammatory activities of HIV-1-infected human astrocytes in murine brain

The balance between astrocyte and microglia neuroprotection and neurotoxicity defines the tempo of neuronal dysfunction during HIV-1-associated dementia (HAD). Astrocytes maintain brain homeostasis and respond actively to brain damage by providing functional and nutritive neuronal support. In HAD, low-level, continuous infection of astrocytes occurs, but the functional consequences of this infection are poorly understood. To this end, human fetal astrocytes (HFA) and monocyte-derived macrophages (MDM) were infected with HIV-1DJV and HIV-1NL4-3 (neurotropic and lymphotropic strains respectively) and a pseudotyped Vesicular Stomatitis Virus (VSV/HIV-1NL4-3) prior to intracranial injection into the basal ganglia of severe combined immunodeficient mice. Neuropathological and immunohistochemical comparisons for inflammatory and neurotoxic activities were performed amongst the infected cell types at 7 or 14 days. HIV-1-infected MDM induced significant increases in Mac-1, glial fibrillary acidic protein, ionized calcium-binding adapter molecule 1, and proinflammatory cytokine RNA and/or protein expression when compared with HSV/HIV-1- and HIV-1-infected HFA and sham-operated mice. Levels of neuron-specific nuclear protein, microtubule-associated protein 2, and neurofilament antigens were reduced significantly in the brain regions injected with human MDM infected with HIV-1DJV or VSV/HIV-1. We conclude that HIV-1 infection of astrocytes leads to limited neurodegeneration, underscoring the early and active role of macrophage-driven neurotoxicity in disease.

Interleukin-1-induced neurotoxicity is mediated by glia and requires caspase activation and free radical release

Interleukin (IL)-1 expression is induced rapidly in response to diverse CNS insults and is a key mediator of experimentally induced neuronal injury. However, the mechanisms of IL-1-induced neurotoxicity are unknown. The aim of the present study was to examine the toxic effects of IL-1 on rat cortical cell cultures. Treatment with IL-1beta did not affect the viability of pure cortical neurones. However, IL-1 treatment of cocultures of neurones with glia or purified astrocytes induced caspase activation resulting in neuronal death. Neuronal cell death induced by IL-1 was prevented by pre-treatment with the IL-1 receptor antagonist, the broad spectrum caspase inhibitor Boc-Asp-(OMe)-CH(2)F or the antioxidant alpha-tocopherol. The NMDA receptor antagonist dizolcipine (MK-801) attenuated cell death induced by low doses of IL-1beta but the alpha-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methylisoxazole-4-propionic acid receptor antagonist 2,3-dihydroxy-6-nitro-7-sulfamoyl-benzo(F)quinoxaline (NBQX) had no effect. Inhibition of inducible nitric oxide synthase with N(omega)-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester had no effect on neuronal cell death induced by IL-1beta. Thus, IL-1 activates the IL-1 type 1 receptor in astrocytes to induce caspase-dependent neuronal death, which is dependent on the release of free radicals and may contribute to neuronal cell death in CNS diseases.

Potential mechanisms for astrocyte-TIMP-1 downregulation in chronic inflammatory diseases

The pathogenesis of many neurodegenerative disorders, including human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-1 associated dementia, is exacerbated by an imbalance between matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and their inhibitors, tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs). In the context of disease, TIMP-1 has emerged as an important multifunctional protein capable of regulating inflammation. We previously reported differential TIMP-1 expression in acute versus chronic activation of astrocytes. This study investigates possible mechanisms underlying TIMP-1 downregulation in chronic neuroinflammation. We used interleukin (IL)-1beta as a model pro-inflammatory stimulus and measured TIMP-1 binding to extracellular matrix, cell death, receptor downregulation, TIMP-1 mRNA stability and transcriptional regulation in activated astrocytes. TIMP-1 remained localized to the cell body or was secreted into the cell supernatant. DNA fragmentation ELISA and MTT assay showed that prolonged IL-1beta activation of astrocytes induced significant astrocyte death. In acute and chronic IL-1beta-activated astrocytes, IL-1 receptor levels were not significantly different. TIMP-1 mRNA stability was measured in astrocytes and U87 astroglioma cells by real-time PCR, and TIMP-1 promoter activation was studied using TIMP-1-luciferase reporter constructs in transfected astrocytes. Our results indicated that TIMP-1 expression is regulated through multiple mechanisms. Transcriptional control and loss of mRNA stabilization are, however, the most likely primary contributors to chronic downregulation of TIMP-1. These data are important for unraveling the mechanisms underlying astrocyte responses during chronic neuroinflammation and have broader implications in other inflammatory diseases that involve MMP/TIMP imbalance.

Human immunodeficiency virus infection and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome dementia complex: role of cells of monocyte-macrophage lineage

The entry of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) into the central nervous system (CNS) causes both the establishment of a lifelong viral reservoir in the brain and symptoms of neurological dysfunction that have an AIDS dementia complex (ADC) clinical appearance. Neurological dysfunction in ADC patients still remains an unresolved problem. However, ADC pathogenesis may be a multistep process that starts with HIV invasion of CNS by crossing the blood-brain barrier (BBB). It progresses by developing a chronic inflammatory status that can cause dysfunction in neurons and astrocytes that result in apoptotic death. Monocytes-macrophages (M/M) may play an important role by concealing the HIV transfer across the BBB. Furthermore, HIV-infected M/M could produce and release neurotoxic factors. In this review the main mediators and cells involved in pathogenesis and development of ADC are highlighted. A better understanding of the mechanisms involved in this process may help in a successful therapeutic approach to the neuropathogenesis of HIV infection.

Molecular mechanisms of HIV-1 associated neurodegeneration

Since identification of the human immunodeficiency virus-1 (HIV-1), numerous studies suggest a link between neurological impairments, in particular dementia, with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) with alarming occurrence worldwide. Approximately, 60% of HIV-infected people show some form of neurological impairment, and neuropathological changes are found in 90% of autopsied cases. Approximately 30% of untreated HIV-infected persons may develop dementia. The mechanisms behind these pathological changes are still not understood. Mounting data obtained by in vivo and in vitro experiments suggest that neuronal apoptosis is a major feature of HIV associated dementia (HAD), which can occur in the absence of direct infection of neurons. The major pathway of neuronal apoptosis occurs indirectly through release of neurotoxins by activated cells in the central nervous system (CNS) involving the induction of excitotoxicity and oxidative stress. In addition a direct mechanism induced by viral proteins in the pathogenesis of HAD may also play a role. This review focuses on the molecular mechanisms of HIV-associated dementia and possible therapeutic strategies.

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor as a prototype neuroprotective factor against HIV-1-associated neuronal degeneration

Patients with human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) infection develop a broad spectrum of motor impairments and cognitive deficits, which follow or parallel cellular loss and atrophy in their brains. The viral envelope glycoprotein 120 (gp120) has been suggested to be a causal agent of neuronal loss. Therefore, reducing gp120 neurotoxicity may prevent neuronal degeneration seen in these patients. Here, we describe in vitro and in vivo experimental evidence that gp120 toxicity can be reduced by brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a naturally occurring peptide that has been shown to block neurotoxin and trauma-induced neuronal injury. Moreover, we review the survival promoting properties of BDNF and the issues concerning its delivery into the brain, in an attempt to explain the rationale for exploring BDNF as a prototype trophic factor for a therapy to reduce neuronal cell death in HIV-1 infected patients.

Modulation of the immune response in the nervous system by rabies virus

Rabies virus (RABV) is a pathogen well-adapted to the nervous system, where it infects neurons. RABV is transmitted by the bite of an infected animal. It enters the nervous system via a motor neuron through the neuromuscular junction, or via a sensory nerve through nerve spindles. It then travels from one neuron to the next, along the spinal cord to the brain and the salivary glands. The virions are then excreted in the saliva of the animal and can be transmitted to another host by bite. Thus preservation of neuronal network integrity is crucial for the virus to be transmitted. Successful invasion of the nervous system by RABV seems to be the result of a subversive strategy based on the survival of infected neurons. This strategy includes protection against virus-mediated apoptosis and destruction of T cells that invade the CNS in response to infection.

Cloning and characterization of HIV-1-inducible astrocyte elevated gene-1, AEG-1

We presently describe the full-length cloning and functional characterization of an HIV-1-inducible gene, astrocyte elevated gene (AEG)-1. Additionally, a novel method is outlined for producing tag-free recombinant protein in a baculovirus system and its use in producing AEG-1 protein. AEG-1 mRNA is expressed ubiquitously with higher expression in tissues containing muscular actin and its expression is increased in astrocytes infected with HIV-1 or treated with gp120 or tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha. The mRNA encodes a single pass transmembrane protein of predicted molecular mass of 64-kDa and pI 9.3 that predominantly localizes in the endoplasmic reticulum and perinuclear region. Ectopic expression of AEG-1 inhibits excitatory amino acid transporter 2 (EAAT2) promoter activity with the potential to promote glutamate excitotoxicity and consequently HIV-1-associated dementia (HAD). AEG-1 expression is elevated in subsets of breast carcinomas, malignant gliomas and melanomas and it synergizes with oncogenic Ha-ras to enhance soft agar colony forming ability of non-tumorigenic immortalized melanocytes, documenting its tumor promoting activity. AEG-1 may affect tumor progression in multiple cell lineages by augmenting expression of the transformed phenotype and/or by inducing glutamate excitotoxicity in malignant glioma. In these contexts, an HIV-1-inducible gene, AEG-1, may contribute to multiple brain abnormalities, including HAD and tumor formation, by both common and distinct mechanisms.

NF-kappaB regulates Fas-mediated apoptosis in HIV-associated nephropathy

Renal parenchymal injury in HIV-associated nephropathy (HIVAN) is characterized by epithelial proliferation, dedifferentiation, and apoptosis along the entire length of the nephron. Although apoptotic cell death in HIVAN has been well documented, the mechanism for HIV-induced apoptosis is poorly understood. Whether the epithelial apoptosis in HIVAN is mediated by NF-kappaB-activated Fas ligand expression was investigated here. In human HIVAN and HIV-1 transgenic mouse kidney specimens, the expression of Fas receptor and ligand proteins were markedly upregulated on epithelium in diseased glomerular and tubulointerstitial compartments when compared with normal. Podocyte cell lines that were derived from HIV-1 transgenic mice showed a similar upregulation of Fas receptor expression and de novo expression of Fas ligand by semiquantitative reverse transcription-PCR and Western blotting. In cultured podocytes, cross-linking of the Fas receptor to mimic ligand binding induced caspase 8 activity and apoptosis in both normal and HIVAN podocytes. Because constitutive NF-kappaB activity has been demonstrated in HIVAN epithelia, evidence for transcriptional control of the Fas ligand expression by NF-kappaB was sought. With the use of cultured podocytes, expression of a Fas ligand promoter reporter plasmid was higher in HIVAN podocytes, indicating increased transcriptional activity. In addition, chromatin immunoprecipitation assays were performed to demonstrate that p65-containing (RelA) complexes bound the Fas ligand promoter and that suppression of activated NF-kappaB with a peptide inhibitor could reduce the expression of Fas ligand mRNA in HIVAN podocytes. These results suggest that NF-kappaB may regulate Fas-mediated apoptosis in HIVAN by controlling the expression of Fas ligand in renal epithelium.

Cross talk between growth factors and viral and cellular factors alters neuronal signaling pathways: implication for HIV-associated dementia

HIV-associated dementia (HAD) is a serious neurological disorder affecting about 7% of people with AIDS. In the brain, HIV-1 infects a restricted number of cell types, being primarily present in macrophages and microglial cells, less abundant in astrocytes, and rarely seen in oligodendrocytes and neurons. Lack of a productive HIV-1 infection of neuronal cells suggests the presence of an indirect pathway by which the virus may determine the brain pathology and neuronal dysfunction seen in AIDS patients. Among the participants in this event, viral proteins including gp120 and Tat, along with host factors including cytokines, chemokines, and several signaling pathways have received considerable attention. In this article, we discuss the most recent concepts pertaining to the mechanisms of HIV-1-induced neuronal dysfunction by highlighting the interplay between signal transduction pathways activated by viral and host factors and their consequences in neuronal cell function.

Up-regulation of Fas ligand (FasL) in the central nervous system: a mechanism of immune evasion by rabies virus

Following its injection into the hindlimbs of mice, CVS, a highly pathogenic strain of rabies virus, invades the spinal cord and brain resulting in the death of the animal. In contrast, central nervous system (CNS) invasion by PV, a strain of attenuated pathogenicity, is restricted to the spinal cord and mice infected with this virus survive. Lymphocytes display transient migration into the infected CNS in fatal rabies and sustained migration in nonfatal rabies. The transient migration of T cells in fatal rabies is associated with an increase in T-cell apoptosis. We found that the early production of Fas ligand (FasL) mRNAs was up-regulated only in fatal rabies. FasL is produced by several neuronal cells and mainly in infected neurons. In mice lacking FasL (gld), infection with the neuroinvasive rabies virus strain was less severe, and the number of CD3 T cells undergoing apoptosis was smaller than that in normal mice. These data provide strong evidence that fatal rabies virus infection involves the early triggering of FasL production leading to the destruction of migratory T cells by the Fas/FasL apoptosis pathway. This mechanism could be in part responsible for the fact that T cells cannot control neuroinvasive rabies infection. Thus, rabies virus seems to use an immunosubversive strategy that takes advantage of the immune privilege status of the CNS.

Role of activated astrocytes in neuronal damage: potential links to HIV-1-associated dementia

HIV-1-associated dementia (HAD) is an important complication of HIV-1 infection. Reactive astrogliosis is a key pathological feature in HAD brains and in other central nervous system (CNS) diseases. Activated astroglia may play a critical role in CNS inflammatory diseases such as HAD. In order to test the hypothesis that activated astrocytes cause neuronal injury, we stimulated primary human fetal astrocytes with HAD-relevant pro-inflammatory cytokine IL-1beta. IL-1beta-activated astrocytes induced apoptosis and significant changes in metabolic activity in primary human neurons. An FITC-conjugated pan-caspase inhibitor peptide FITC-VAD-FMK was used for confirming caspase activation in neurons. IL-1beta activation enhanced the expression of death protein FasL in astrocytes, suggesting that FasL is one of the potential factors responsible for neurotoxicity observed in HAD and other CNS diseases involving glial inflammation. Our data presented here add to the developing picture of role of activated glia in HAD pathogenesis.

Possible involvement of both endoplasmic reticulum- and mitochondria-dependent pathways in MoMuLV-ts1-induced apoptosis in astrocytes

The Moloney murine leukemia virus (MoMuLV)-ts1 retrovirus, a naturally occurring mutant of MoMuLV-TB, causes a neuroimmunodegenerative syndrome in mice. The authors show here that ts1 triggers apoptosis in immortalized astrocytes, C1 cells, and primary cultured astrocytes, and that this apoptosis is caused by endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress resulting from accumulation of the viral envelope preprotein gPr80(env). In ts1-infected C1 cells, an unfolded protein response was identified by activation of the ER-resident transmembrane protein kinase PERK, an event that leads to hyperphosphorylation of eIF2 alpha, up-regulation of GRP78, increased amounts of GADD153/CHOP, and cleavage of procaspase-12. Up-regulation of GRP78 and cleavage of procaspase-12 were also detected in primary cultured astrocytes infected with ts1. In ts1-infected C1 cells, ER stress was followed by mitochondrial stress, detected as mitochondrial transmembrane potential dissipation, cleavage of procaspase-9, and induction of activated caspase-3. In the brainstems of ts1-infected mice, activated caspase-3 and damaged mitochondria were identified in astrocytes within areas showing spongiform degeneration. Together the data imply that both ER stress- and mitochondrial stress-related apoptotic pathways are involved in ts1-induced astrocyte death.