1
|
Matamoros JA, Rubio-Casado S, Fernández-Albarral JA, Martínez-López MA, Salobrar-García E, Marco EM, Paleo-García V, de Hoz R, López-Cuenca I, Elvira-Hurtado L, Sánchez-Puebla L, Ramírez JM, Salazar JJ, López-Gallardo M, Ramírez AI. Neuroprotective Effect of the Combination of Citicoline and CoQ10 in a Mouse Model of Ocular Hypertension. Antioxidants (Basel) 2024; 14:4. [PMID: 39857338 PMCID: PMC11761561 DOI: 10.3390/antiox14010004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2024] [Revised: 12/19/2024] [Accepted: 12/21/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2025] Open
Abstract
Glaucoma is a neurodegenerative disease characterized by the loss of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs), with intraocular pressure (IOP) being its primary risk factor. Despite controlling IOP, the neurodegenerative process often continues. Therefore, substances with neuroprotective, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties could protect against RGC death. This study investigated the neuroprotective effects on RGCs and visual pathway neurons of a compound consisting of citicoline and coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) in a mouse model of unilateral, laser-induced ocular hypertension (OHT). Four groups of mice were used: vehicle group (n = 6), citicoline + CoQ10 group (n = 6), laser-vehicle group (n = 6), and laser-citicoline + CoQ10 group (n = 6). The citicoline + CoQ10 was administered orally once a day starting 15 days before laser treatment, continuing until sacrifice (7 days post-laser). Retinas, the dorsolateral geniculate nucleus (dLGN), the superior colliculus (SC), and the visual cortex (V1) were analyzed. The citicoline + CoQ10 compound used in the laser-citicoline + CoQ10 group demonstrated (1) an ocular hypotensive effect only at 24 h post-laser; (2) prevention of Brn3a+ RGC death in OHT eyes; and (3) no changes in NeuN+ neurons in the dLGN. This study demonstrates that the oral administration of the citicoline + CoQ10 combination may exert a neuroprotective effect against RGC death in an established rodent model of OHT.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- José A. Matamoros
- Ramon Castroviejo Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Complutense University of Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (J.A.M.); (S.R.-C.); (J.A.F.-A.); (M.A.M.-L.); (E.S.-G.); (E.M.M.); (R.d.H.); (I.L.-C.); (L.E.-H.); (L.S.-P.); (J.M.R.); (J.J.S.)
- Health Research Institute of the Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), 28040 Madrid, Spain
- Department of Immunology, Ophthalmology and ENT, Faculty of Optics and Optometry, Complutense University of Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Sara Rubio-Casado
- Ramon Castroviejo Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Complutense University of Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (J.A.M.); (S.R.-C.); (J.A.F.-A.); (M.A.M.-L.); (E.S.-G.); (E.M.M.); (R.d.H.); (I.L.-C.); (L.E.-H.); (L.S.-P.); (J.M.R.); (J.J.S.)
- Department of Immunology, Ophthalmology and ORL, Faculty of Medicine, Complutense University of Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - José A. Fernández-Albarral
- Ramon Castroviejo Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Complutense University of Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (J.A.M.); (S.R.-C.); (J.A.F.-A.); (M.A.M.-L.); (E.S.-G.); (E.M.M.); (R.d.H.); (I.L.-C.); (L.E.-H.); (L.S.-P.); (J.M.R.); (J.J.S.)
- Health Research Institute of the Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), 28040 Madrid, Spain
- Department of Immunology, Ophthalmology and ENT, Faculty of Optics and Optometry, Complutense University of Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Miguel A. Martínez-López
- Ramon Castroviejo Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Complutense University of Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (J.A.M.); (S.R.-C.); (J.A.F.-A.); (M.A.M.-L.); (E.S.-G.); (E.M.M.); (R.d.H.); (I.L.-C.); (L.E.-H.); (L.S.-P.); (J.M.R.); (J.J.S.)
- Department of Immunology, Ophthalmology and ORL, Faculty of Medicine, Complutense University of Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Elena Salobrar-García
- Ramon Castroviejo Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Complutense University of Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (J.A.M.); (S.R.-C.); (J.A.F.-A.); (M.A.M.-L.); (E.S.-G.); (E.M.M.); (R.d.H.); (I.L.-C.); (L.E.-H.); (L.S.-P.); (J.M.R.); (J.J.S.)
- Health Research Institute of the Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), 28040 Madrid, Spain
- Department of Immunology, Ophthalmology and ENT, Faculty of Optics and Optometry, Complutense University of Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Eva M. Marco
- Ramon Castroviejo Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Complutense University of Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (J.A.M.); (S.R.-C.); (J.A.F.-A.); (M.A.M.-L.); (E.S.-G.); (E.M.M.); (R.d.H.); (I.L.-C.); (L.E.-H.); (L.S.-P.); (J.M.R.); (J.J.S.)
- Department of Genetics, Microbiology and Physiology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Complutense University of Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Victor Paleo-García
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Complutense University of Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain;
| | - Rosa de Hoz
- Ramon Castroviejo Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Complutense University of Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (J.A.M.); (S.R.-C.); (J.A.F.-A.); (M.A.M.-L.); (E.S.-G.); (E.M.M.); (R.d.H.); (I.L.-C.); (L.E.-H.); (L.S.-P.); (J.M.R.); (J.J.S.)
- Health Research Institute of the Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), 28040 Madrid, Spain
- Department of Immunology, Ophthalmology and ENT, Faculty of Optics and Optometry, Complutense University of Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Inés López-Cuenca
- Ramon Castroviejo Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Complutense University of Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (J.A.M.); (S.R.-C.); (J.A.F.-A.); (M.A.M.-L.); (E.S.-G.); (E.M.M.); (R.d.H.); (I.L.-C.); (L.E.-H.); (L.S.-P.); (J.M.R.); (J.J.S.)
- Health Research Institute of the Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), 28040 Madrid, Spain
- Department of Immunology, Ophthalmology and ENT, Faculty of Optics and Optometry, Complutense University of Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Lorena Elvira-Hurtado
- Ramon Castroviejo Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Complutense University of Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (J.A.M.); (S.R.-C.); (J.A.F.-A.); (M.A.M.-L.); (E.S.-G.); (E.M.M.); (R.d.H.); (I.L.-C.); (L.E.-H.); (L.S.-P.); (J.M.R.); (J.J.S.)
| | - Lidia Sánchez-Puebla
- Ramon Castroviejo Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Complutense University of Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (J.A.M.); (S.R.-C.); (J.A.F.-A.); (M.A.M.-L.); (E.S.-G.); (E.M.M.); (R.d.H.); (I.L.-C.); (L.E.-H.); (L.S.-P.); (J.M.R.); (J.J.S.)
- Health Research Institute of the Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), 28040 Madrid, Spain
- Department of Immunology, Ophthalmology and ORL, Faculty of Medicine, Complutense University of Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - José M. Ramírez
- Ramon Castroviejo Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Complutense University of Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (J.A.M.); (S.R.-C.); (J.A.F.-A.); (M.A.M.-L.); (E.S.-G.); (E.M.M.); (R.d.H.); (I.L.-C.); (L.E.-H.); (L.S.-P.); (J.M.R.); (J.J.S.)
- Health Research Institute of the Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), 28040 Madrid, Spain
- Department of Immunology, Ophthalmology and ORL, Faculty of Medicine, Complutense University of Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Juan J. Salazar
- Ramon Castroviejo Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Complutense University of Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (J.A.M.); (S.R.-C.); (J.A.F.-A.); (M.A.M.-L.); (E.S.-G.); (E.M.M.); (R.d.H.); (I.L.-C.); (L.E.-H.); (L.S.-P.); (J.M.R.); (J.J.S.)
- Health Research Institute of the Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), 28040 Madrid, Spain
- Department of Immunology, Ophthalmology and ENT, Faculty of Optics and Optometry, Complutense University of Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Meritxell López-Gallardo
- Ramon Castroviejo Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Complutense University of Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (J.A.M.); (S.R.-C.); (J.A.F.-A.); (M.A.M.-L.); (E.S.-G.); (E.M.M.); (R.d.H.); (I.L.-C.); (L.E.-H.); (L.S.-P.); (J.M.R.); (J.J.S.)
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Complutense University of Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain;
| | - Ana I. Ramírez
- Ramon Castroviejo Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Complutense University of Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (J.A.M.); (S.R.-C.); (J.A.F.-A.); (M.A.M.-L.); (E.S.-G.); (E.M.M.); (R.d.H.); (I.L.-C.); (L.E.-H.); (L.S.-P.); (J.M.R.); (J.J.S.)
- Health Research Institute of the Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), 28040 Madrid, Spain
- Department of Immunology, Ophthalmology and ENT, Faculty of Optics and Optometry, Complutense University of Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Hoseini-Yazdi H, Read SA, Collins MJ, Bahmani H, Ellrich J, Schilling T. Increase in choroidal thickness after blue light stimulation of the blind spot in young adults. Bioelectron Med 2024; 10:13. [PMID: 38825695 PMCID: PMC11145801 DOI: 10.1186/s42234-024-00146-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 06/04/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Blue light activates melanopsin, a photopigment that is expressed in intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs). The axons of ipRGCs converge on the optic disc, which corresponds to the physiological blind spot in the visual field. Thus, a blue light stimulus aligned with the blind spot captures the ipRGCs axons at the optic disc. This study examined the potential changes in choroidal thickness and axial length associated with blue light stimulation of melanopsin-expressing ipRGCs at the blind spot. It was hypothesized that blue light stimulation at the blind spot in adults increases choroidal thickness. METHODS The blind spots of both eyes of 10 emmetropes and 10 myopes, with a mean age of 28 ± 6 years (SD), were stimulated locally for 1-minute with blue flickering light with a 460 nm peak wavelength. Measurements of choroidal thickness and axial length were collected from the left eye before stimulation and over a 60-minute poststimulation period. At a similar time of day, choroidal thickness and axial length were measured under sham control condition in all participants, while a subset of 3 emmetropes and 3 myopes were measured after 1-minute of red flickering light stimulation of the blind spot with a peak wavelength of 620 nm. Linear mixed model analyses were performed to examine the light-induced changes in choroidal thickness and axial length over time and between refractive groups. RESULTS Compared with sham control (2 ± 1 μm, n = 20) and red light (-1 ± 2 μm, n = 6) stimulation, subfoveal choroidal thickness increased within 60 min after blue light stimulation of the blind spot (7 ± 1 μm, n = 20; main effect of light, p < 0.001). Significant choroidal thickening after blue light stimulation occurred in emmetropes (10 ± 2 μm, p < 0.001) but not in myopes (4 ± 2 μm, p > 0.05). Choroidal thickening after blue light stimulation was greater in the fovea, diminishing in the parafoveal and perifoveal regions. There was no significant main effect of light, or light by refractive error interaction on the axial length after blind spot stimulation. CONCLUSIONS These findings demonstrate that stimulating melanopsin-expressing axons of ipRGCs at the blind spot with blue light increases choroidal thickness in young adults. This has potential implications for regulating eye growth.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hosein Hoseini-Yazdi
- Contact Lens and Visual Optics Laboratory, Centre for Vision and Eye Research, Optometry and Vision Science, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, 4059, Australia
| | - Scott A Read
- Contact Lens and Visual Optics Laboratory, Centre for Vision and Eye Research, Optometry and Vision Science, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, 4059, Australia
| | - Michael J Collins
- Contact Lens and Visual Optics Laboratory, Centre for Vision and Eye Research, Optometry and Vision Science, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, 4059, Australia
| | - Hamed Bahmani
- Dopavision GmbH, Krausenstr. 9-10, 10117, Berlin, Germany
| | - Jens Ellrich
- Dopavision GmbH, Krausenstr. 9-10, 10117, Berlin, Germany
- Medical Faculty, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nuremberg, 91054, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Tim Schilling
- Dopavision GmbH, Krausenstr. 9-10, 10117, Berlin, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Adhikari P, Uprety S, Feigl B, Zele AJ. Melanopsin-mediated amplification of cone signals in the human visual cortex. Proc Biol Sci 2024; 291:20232708. [PMID: 38808443 PMCID: PMC11285915 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2023.2708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024] Open
Abstract
The ambient daylight variation is coded by melanopsin photoreceptors and their luxotonic activity increases towards midday when colour temperatures are cooler, and irradiances are higher. Although melanopsin and cone photoresponses can be mediated via separate pathways, the connectivity of melanopsin cells across all levels of the retina enables them to modify cone signals. The downstream effects of melanopsin-cone interactions on human vision are however, incompletely understood. Here, we determined how the change in daytime melanopsin activation affects the human cone pathway signals in the visual cortex. A 5-primary silent-substitution method was developed to evaluate the dependence of cone-mediated signals on melanopsin activation by spectrally tuning the lights and stabilizing the rhodopsin activation under a constant cone photometric luminance. The retinal (white noise electroretinogram) and cortical responses (visual evoked potential) were simultaneously recorded with the photoreceptor-directed lights in 10 observers. By increasing the melanopsin activation, a reverse response pattern was observed with cone signals being supressed in the retina by 27% (p = 0.03) and subsequently amplified by 16% (p = 0.01) as they reach the cortex. We infer that melanopsin activity can amplify cone signals at sites distal to retinal bipolar cells to cause a decrease in the psychophysical Weber fraction for cone vision.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Prakash Adhikari
- Centre for Vision and Eye Research, Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Brisbane, Queensland 4059, Australia
| | - Samir Uprety
- Centre for Vision and Eye Research, Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Brisbane, Queensland 4059, Australia
| | - Beatrix Feigl
- Centre for Vision and Eye Research, Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Brisbane, Queensland 4059, Australia
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Brisbane, Queensland 4059, Australia
- Queensland Eye Institute, Brisbane, Queensland 4101, Australia
| | - Andrew J Zele
- Centre for Vision and Eye Research, Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Brisbane, Queensland 4059, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Abstract
The discovery of melanopsin cells in the retina might render the standard model of human color perception incomplete. Measurements made with a technically advanced visual display address this question and point to a new role for the melanopsin system.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Geoffrey K Aguirre
- Department of Neurology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Schilling T, Soltanlou M, Nuerk HC, Bahmani H. Blue-light stimulation of the blind-spot constricts the pupil and enhances contrast sensitivity. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0286503. [PMID: 37256905 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0286503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Short- and long-wavelength light can alter pupillary responses differently, allowing inferences to be made about the contribution of different photoreceptors on pupillary constriction. In addition to classical retinal photoreceptors, the pupillary light response is formed by the activity of melanopsin-expressing intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGC). It has been shown in rodents that melanopsin is expressed in the axons of ipRGCs that bundle at the optic nerve head, which forms the perceptual blind-spot. Hence, the first aim of this study was to investigate if blind-spot stimulation induces a pupillary response. The second aim was to investigate the effect of blind-spot stimulation by using the contrast sensitivity tests. Fifteen individuals participated in the pupil response experiment and thirty-two individuals in the contrast sensitivity experiment. The pupillary change was quantified using the post-illumination pupil response (PIPR) amplitudes after blue-light (experimental condition) and red-light (control condition) pulses in the time window between 2 s and 6 s post-illumination. The contrast sensitivity was assessed using two different tests: the Freiburg Visual Acuity Test and Contrast Test and the Tuebingen Contrast Sensitivity Test, respectively. Contrast sensitivity was measured before and 20 minutes after binocular blue-light stimulation of the blind-spot at spatial frequencies higher than or equal to 3 cycles per degree (cpd) and at spatial frequencies lower than 3 cpd (control condition). Blue-light blind-spot stimulation induced a significantly larger PIPR compared to red-light, confirming a melanopsin-mediated pupil-response in the blind-spot. Furthermore, contrast sensitivity was increased after blind-spot stimulation, confirmed by both contrast sensitivity tests. Only spatial frequencies of at least 3 cpd were enhanced. This study demonstrates that stimulating the blind-spot with blue-light constricts the pupil and increases the contrast sensitivity at higher spatial frequencies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Mojtaba Soltanlou
- Department of Psychology, University of Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
- School of Psychology, University of Surrey, Guildford, United Kingdom
| | - Hans-Christoph Nuerk
- Department of Psychology, University of Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
- LEAD Graduate School & Research Network, University of Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Hamed Bahmani
- Dopavision GmbH, Berlin, Germany
- Bernstein Center for Computational Neuroscience, Tuebingen, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Raja S, Milosavljevic N, Allen AE, Cameron MA. Burning the candle at both ends: Intraretinal signaling of intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells. Front Cell Neurosci 2023; 16:1095787. [PMID: 36687522 PMCID: PMC9853061 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2022.1095787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs) are photoreceptors located in the ganglion cell layer. They project to brain regions involved in predominately non-image-forming functions including entrainment of circadian rhythms, control of the pupil light reflex, and modulation of mood and behavior. In addition to possessing intrinsic photosensitivity via the photopigment melanopsin, these cells receive inputs originating in rods and cones. While most research in the last two decades has focused on the downstream influence of ipRGC signaling, recent studies have shown that ipRGCs also act retrogradely within the retina itself as intraretinal signaling neurons. In this article, we review studies examining intraretinal and, in addition, intraocular signaling pathways of ipRGCs. Through these pathways, ipRGCs regulate inner and outer retinal circuitry through both chemical and electrical synapses, modulate the outputs of ganglion cells (both ipRGCs and non-ipRGCs), and influence arrangement of the correct retinal circuitry and vasculature during development. These data suggest that ipRGC function plays a significant role in the processing of image-forming vision at its earliest stage, positioning these photoreceptors to exert a vital role in perceptual vision. This research will have important implications for lighting design to optimize the best chromatic lighting environments for humans, both in adults and potentially even during fetal and postnatal development. Further studies into these unique ipRGC signaling pathways could also lead to a better understanding of the development of ocular dysfunctions such as myopia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sushmitha Raja
- School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Nina Milosavljevic
- Division of Neuroscience, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Annette E. Allen
- Division of Neuroscience, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Morven A. Cameron
- School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Sydney, NSW, Australia,*Correspondence: Morven A. Cameron,
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Hunyara JL, Foshe S, Varadarajan SG, Gribble KD, Huberman AD, Kolodkin AL. Characterization of non-alpha retinal ganglion cell injury responses reveals a possible block to restoring ipRGC function. Exp Neurol 2022; 357:114176. [PMID: 35870522 PMCID: PMC9549754 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2022.114176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2022] [Revised: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 07/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Visual impairment caused by retinal ganglion cell (RGC) axon damage or degeneration affects millions of individuals throughout the world. While some progress has been made in promoting long-distance RGC axon regrowth following injury, it remains unclear whether RGC axons can properly reconnect with their central targets to restore visual function. Additionally, the regenerative capacity of many RGC subtypes remains unknown in part due to a lack of available genetic tools. Here, we use a new mouse line, Sema6ACreERT2, that labels On direction-selective RGCs (oDSGCs) and characterize the survival and regenerative potential of these cells following optic nerve crush (ONC). In parallel, we use a previously characterized mouse line, Opn4CreERT2, to answer these same questions for M1 intrinsically photosensitive RGCs (ipRGCs). We find that both M1 ipRGCs and oDSGCs are resilient to injury but do not display long-distance axon regrowth following Lin28a overexpression. Unexpectedly, we found that M1 ipRGC, but not oDSGC, intraretinal axons exhibit ectopic branching and are misaligned near the optic disc between one- and three-weeks following injury. Additionally, we observe that numerous ectopic presynaptic specializations associate with misguided ipRGC intraretinal axons. Taken together, these results reveal insights into the injury response of M1 ipRGCs and oDSGCs, providing a foundation for future efforts seeking to restore visual system function following injury.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- John L Hunyara
- The Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Sierra Foshe
- The Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | | | - Katherine D Gribble
- The Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Andrew D Huberman
- Department of Neurobiology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA; Department of Ophthalmology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Alex L Kolodkin
- The Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Gao J, Provencio I, Liu X. Intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells in glaucoma. Front Cell Neurosci 2022; 16:992747. [PMID: 36212698 PMCID: PMC9537624 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2022.992747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2022] [Accepted: 09/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases afflicting more than 70 million people worldwide. It is characterized by damage to retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) that ultimately leads to the death of the cells and vision loss. The diversity of RGC types has been appreciated for decades, and studies, including ours, have shown that RGCs degenerate and die in a type-specific manner in rodent models of glaucoma. The type-specific loss of RGCs results in differential damage to visual and non-visual functions. One type of RGC, the intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cell (ipRGC), expressing the photopigment melanopsin, serves a broad array of non-visual responses to light. Since its discovery, six subtypes of ipRGC have been described, each contributing to various image-forming and non-image-forming functions such as circadian photoentrainment, the pupillary light reflex, the photic control of mood and sleep, and visual contrast sensitivity. We recently demonstrated a link between type-specific ipRGC survival and behavioral deficits in a mouse model of chronic ocular hypertension. This review focuses on the type-specific ipRGC degeneration and associated behavioral changes in animal models and glaucoma patients. A better understanding of how glaucomatous insult impacts the ipRGC-based circuits will have broad impacts on improving the treatment of glaucoma-associated non-visual disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jingyi Gao
- Department of Biology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, United States
| | - Ignacio Provencio
- Department of Biology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, United States
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, United States
- Program in Fundamental Neuroscience, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, United States
| | - Xiaorong Liu
- Department of Biology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, United States
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, United States
- Program in Fundamental Neuroscience, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, United States
- Department of Psychology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Bordt AS, Patterson SS, Kuchenbecker JA, Mazzaferri MA, Yearick JN, Yang ER, Ogilvie JM, Neitz J, Marshak DW. Synaptic inputs to displaced intrinsically-photosensitive ganglion cells in macaque retina. Sci Rep 2022; 12:15160. [PMID: 36071126 PMCID: PMC9452553 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-19324-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2022] [Accepted: 08/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Ganglion cells are the projection neurons of the retina. Intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs) express the photopigment melanopsin and also receive input from rods and cones via bipolar cells and amacrine cells. In primates, multiple types of ipRGCs have been identified. The ipRGCs with somas in the ganglion cell layer have been studied extensively, but less is known about those with somas in the inner nuclear layer, the "displaced" cells. To investigate their synaptic inputs, three sets of horizontal, ultrathin sections through central macaque retina were collected using serial block-face scanning electron microscopy. One displaced ipRGC received nearly all of its excitatory inputs from ON bipolar cells and would therefore be expected to have ON responses to light. In each of the three volumes, there was also at least one cell that had a large soma in the inner nuclear layer, varicose axons and dendrites with a large diameter that formed large, extremely sparse arbor in the outermost stratum of the inner plexiform layer. They were identified as the displaced M1 type of ipRGCs based on this morphology and on the high density of granules in their somas. They received extensive input from amacrine cells, including the dopaminergic type. The vast majority of their excitatory inputs were from OFF bipolar cells, including two subtypes with extensive input from the primary rod pathway. They would be expected to have OFF responses to light stimuli below the threshold for melanopsin or soon after the offset of a light stimulus.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrea S Bordt
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, McGovern Medical School, Houston, TX, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Sara S Patterson
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Center for Visual Science, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, USA
| | | | | | - Joel N Yearick
- Department of BioSciences, Rice University, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Emma R Yang
- Department of BioSciences, Rice University, Houston, TX, USA
| | | | - Jay Neitz
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - David W Marshak
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, McGovern Medical School, Houston, TX, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Tools and Biomarkers for the Study of Retinal Ganglion Cell Degeneration. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23084287. [PMID: 35457104 PMCID: PMC9025234 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23084287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2022] [Revised: 04/03/2022] [Accepted: 04/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The retina is part of the central nervous system, its analysis may provide an idea of the health and functionality, not only of the retina, but also of the entire central nervous system, as has been shown in Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s diseases. Within the retina, the ganglion cells (RGC) are the neurons in charge of processing and sending light information to higher brain centers. Diverse insults and pathological states cause degeneration of RGC, leading to irreversible blindness or impaired vision. RGCs are the measurable endpoints in current research into experimental therapies and diagnosis in multiple ocular pathologies, like glaucoma. RGC subtype classifications are based on morphological, functional, genetical, and immunohistochemical aspects. Although great efforts are being made, there is still no classification accepted by consensus. Moreover, it has been observed that each RGC subtype has a different susceptibility to injury. Characterizing these subtypes together with cell death pathway identification will help to understand the degenerative process in the different injury and pathological models, and therefore prevent it. Here we review the known RGC subtypes, as well as the diagnostic techniques, probes, and biomarkers for programmed and unprogrammed cell death in RGC.
Collapse
|
11
|
Melanopic stimulation does not alter psychophysical threshold sensitivity for luminance flicker. Sci Rep 2021; 11:20167. [PMID: 34635745 PMCID: PMC8505480 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-99684-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2021] [Accepted: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
In addition to the rod and cone photoreceptors the retina contains intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs). These cells express the photopigment melanopsin and are known to be involved in reflexive visual functions such as pupil response and photo-entrainment of the circadian rhythm. It is possible that the ipRGCs contribute to conscious visual perception, either by providing an independent signal to the geniculo-striate pathway, or by interacting with and thus modifying signals arising from “classical” retinal ganglion cells that combine and contrast cone input. Here, we tested for the existence of an interaction by asking if a 350% change in melanopsin stimulation alters psychophysical sensitivity for the detection of luminance flicker. In Experiment 1, we tested for a change in the threshold for detecting luminance flicker in three participants after they adapted to backgrounds with different degrees of tonic melanopsin stimulation. In Experiments 2 and 3, this test was repeated, but now for luminance flicker presented on a transient pedestal of melanopsin stimulation. Across the three experiments, no effect of melanopsin stimulation upon threshold flicker sensitivity was found. Our results suggest that even large changes in melanopsin stimulation do not affect near-threshold, cone-mediated visual perception.
Collapse
|
12
|
Abstract
SIGNIFICANCE Pupillometry protocols evaluating rod/cone- and melanopsin-driven responses often use mydriatics to ensure maximal stimulus exposure; however, retinal effects of mydriatics are not fully understood. We demonstrate that dilation with either atropine or phenylephrine results in similar enhancements of rod/cone- and melanopsin-driven pupil responses. PURPOSE The purposes of this study were to compare the effects of atropine, a muscarinic antagonist, and phenylephrine, an adrenergic agonist, on consensual pupil responses and to assess the repeatability of pupil metrics without mydriasis. METHODS Right eye pupil responses of 20 adults aged 21 to 42 years were recorded before and 45 minutes after instillation of 0.5% atropine or 2.5% phenylephrine in the left eye. Stimuli were presented to the left eye and included six alternating 1-second 651-nm "red" and 456-nm "blue" flashes. Metrics included baseline pupil diameter, maximal constriction, 6- and 30-second post-illumination pupil responses, and early (0 to 10 seconds) and late (10 to 30 seconds) areas under the curve. RESULTS Dilation of the stimulated eye with either mydriatic significantly increased the 6-second post-illumination pupil response and early and late areas under the curve for blue stimuli, and early area under the curve for red stimuli (P < .05 for all). Melanopsin-driven post-illumination pupil responses, achieved with either phenylephrine or atropine, did not significantly differ from each other (P > .05 for all). Without mydriasis, intersession intraclass correlation coefficients for pupil metrics were 0.63 and 0.50 (6- and 30-second post-illumination pupil responses, respectively) and 0.78 and 0.44 (early and late areas under the curve, respectively) for blue stimuli, with no significant difference between sessions (P > .05 for all). CONCLUSIONS Dilation with phenylephrine or atropine resulted in similar enhancements of the rod/cone- and melanopsin-driven pupil responses, despite differing mechanisms. Early pupil metrics without mydriasis demonstrated moderate to good intersession repeatability.
Collapse
|
13
|
Pottackal J, Walsh HL, Rahmani P, Zhang K, Justice NJ, Demb JB. Photoreceptive Ganglion Cells Drive Circuits for Local Inhibition in the Mouse Retina. J Neurosci 2021; 41:1489-1504. [PMID: 33397711 PMCID: PMC7896016 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.0674-20.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2020] [Revised: 11/11/2020] [Accepted: 12/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs) exhibit melanopsin-dependent light responses that persist in the absence of rod and cone photoreceptor-mediated input. In addition to signaling anterogradely to the brain, ipRGCs signal retrogradely to intraretinal circuitry via gap junction-mediated electrical synapses with amacrine cells (ACs). However, the targets and functions of these intraretinal signals remain largely unknown. Here, in mice of both sexes, we identify circuitry that enables M5 ipRGCs to locally inhibit retinal neurons via electrical synapses with a nonspiking GABAergic AC. During pharmacological blockade of rod- and cone-mediated input, whole-cell recordings of corticotropin-releasing hormone-expressing (CRH+) ACs reveal persistent visual responses that require both melanopsin expression and gap junctions. In the developing retina, ipRGC-mediated input to CRH+ ACs is weak or absent before eye opening, indicating a primary role for this input in the mature retina (i.e., in parallel with rod- and cone-mediated input). Among several ipRGC types, only M5 ipRGCs exhibit consistent anatomical and physiological coupling to CRH+ ACs. Optogenetic stimulation of local CRH+ ACs directly drives IPSCs in M4 and M5, but not M1-M3, ipRGCs. CRH+ ACs also inhibit M2 ipRGC-coupled spiking ACs, demonstrating direct interaction between discrete networks of ipRGC-coupled interneurons. Together, these results demonstrate a functional role for electrical synapses in translating ipRGC activity into feedforward and feedback inhibition of local retinal circuits.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Melanopsin directly generates light responses in intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs). Through gap junction-mediated electrical synapses with retinal interneurons, these uniquely photoreceptive RGCs may also influence the activity and output of neuronal circuits within the retina. Here, we identified and studied an electrical synaptic circuit that, in principle, could couple ipRGC activity to the chemical output of an identified retinal interneuron. Specifically, we found that M5 ipRGCs form electrical synapses with corticotropin-releasing hormone-expressing amacrine cells, which locally release GABA to inhibit specific RGC types. Thus, ipRGCs are poised to influence the output of diverse retinal circuits via electrical synapses with interneurons.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Nicholas J Justice
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Jonathan B Demb
- Interdepartmental Neuroscience Program
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Physiology
- Department of Neuroscience, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut 06511
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Abstract
Retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) serve as a crucial communication channel from the retina to the brain. In the adult, these cells receive input from defined sets of presynaptic partners and communicate with postsynaptic brain regions to convey features of the visual scene. However, in the developing visual system, RGC interactions extend beyond their synaptic partners such that they guide development before the onset of vision. In this Review, we summarize our current understanding of how interactions between RGCs and their environment influence cellular targeting, migration and circuit maturation during visual system development. We describe the roles of RGC subclasses in shaping unique developmental responses within the retina and at central targets. Finally, we highlight the utility of RNA sequencing and genetic tools in uncovering RGC type-specific roles during the development of the visual system.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shane D'Souza
- The Visual Systems Group, Cincinnati Children's Hospital, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
- Center for Chronobiology, Abrahamson Pediatric Eye Institute, Division of Pediatric Ophthalmology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
- Molecular and Developmental Biology Graduate Program, University of Cincinnati, College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
| | - Richard A Lang
- The Visual Systems Group, Cincinnati Children's Hospital, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
- Center for Chronobiology, Abrahamson Pediatric Eye Institute, Division of Pediatric Ophthalmology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
- Division of Developmental Biology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cincinnati, College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Photosensitive ganglion cells: A diminutive, yet essential population. ARCHIVOS DE LA SOCIEDAD ESPAÑOLA DE OFTALMOLOGÍA 2020; 96:299-315. [PMID: 34092284 DOI: 10.1016/j.oftale.2020.06.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2020] [Accepted: 06/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Our visual system has evolved to provide us with an image of the scene that surrounds us, informing us of its texture, colour, movement, and depth with an enormous spatial and temporal resolution, and for this purpose, the image formation (IF) dedicates the vast majority of our retinal ganglion cell (RGC) population and much of our cerebral cortex. On the other hand, a minuscule proportion of RGCs, in addition to receiving information from classic cone and rod photoreceptors, express melanopsin and are intrinsically photosensitive (ipRGC). These ipRGC are dedicated to non-image-forming (NIF) visual functions, of which we are unaware, but which are essential for aspects related to our daily physiology, such as the timing of our circadian rhythms and our pupillary light reflex, among many others. Before the discovery of ipRGCs, it was thought that the IF and NIF functions were distinct compartments regulated by different RGCs, but this concept has evolved in recent years with the discovery of new types of ipRGCs that innervate subcortical IF regions, and therefore have IF visual functions. Six different types of ipRGCs are currently known. These are termed M1-M6, and differ in their morphological, functional, molecular properties, central projections, and visual behaviour responsibilities. A review is presented on the melanopsin visual system, the most active field of research in vision, for which knowledge has grown exponentially during the last two decades, when RGCs giving rise to this pathway were first discovered.
Collapse
|
16
|
D'Oliveira TC, Anagnostopoulos A. The Association Between Shift Work And Affective Disorders: A Systematic Review. Chronobiol Int 2020; 38:182-200. [PMID: 33222534 DOI: 10.1080/07420528.2020.1838533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Atypical working time patterns are known to be associated with adverse physical health consequences. The impact of chronic exposure to shift work on psychological wellbeing and mental health is also reported, but not fully appreciated. We conducted a systematic review of the literature on the association between shift work and affective disorders using the electronic databases Medline, PsycINFO, Embase, Web of Science and Google Scholar. Data extracted included detailed characteristics of shift work, the affective disorders under study, and the population targeted. Some 25 extracted articles satisfied all inclusion and exclusion criteria. Findings of these articles reveal shift work is associated with increases in depressive symptoms (12 studies), anxiety (2 studies), and depression and anxiety (7 studies). Only three studies found no association between shift work and depression. The findings of this review suggest that shift work increases the symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Collapse
|
17
|
Abstract
A small fraction of mammalian retinal ganglion cells are directly photoreceptive thanks to their expression of the photopigment melanopsin. These intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs) have well-established roles in a variety of reflex responses to changes in ambient light intensity, including circadian photoentrainment. In this article, we review the growing evidence, obtained primarily from laboratory mice and humans, that the ability to sense light via melanopsin is also an important component of perceptual and form vision. Melanopsin photoreception has low temporal resolution, making it fundamentally biased toward detecting changes in ambient light and coarse patterns rather than fine details. Nevertheless, melanopsin can indirectly impact high-acuity vision by driving aspects of light adaptation ranging from pupil constriction to changes in visual circuit performance. Melanopsin also contributes directly to perceptions of brightness, and recent data suggest that this influences the appearance not only of overall scene brightness, but also of low-frequency patterns.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Robert J Lucas
- Centre for Biological Timing and Division of Neuroscience and Experimental Psychology, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PT, United Kingdom;
| | - Annette E Allen
- Centre for Biological Timing and Division of Neuroscience and Experimental Psychology, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PT, United Kingdom;
| | - Nina Milosavljevic
- Centre for Biological Timing and Division of Neuroscience and Experimental Psychology, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PT, United Kingdom;
| | - Riccardo Storchi
- Centre for Biological Timing and Division of Neuroscience and Experimental Psychology, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PT, United Kingdom;
| | - Tom Woelders
- Centre for Biological Timing and Division of Neuroscience and Experimental Psychology, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PT, United Kingdom;
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Sondereker KB, Stabio ME, Renna JM. Crosstalk: The diversity of melanopsin ganglion cell types has begun to challenge the canonical divide between image-forming and non-image-forming vision. J Comp Neurol 2020; 528:2044-2067. [PMID: 32003463 DOI: 10.1002/cne.24873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2019] [Revised: 01/22/2020] [Accepted: 01/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Melanopsin ganglion cells have defied convention since their discovery almost 20 years ago. In the years following, many types of these intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs) have emerged. In the mouse retina, there are currently six known types (M1-M6) of melanopsin ganglion cells, each with unique morphology, mosaics, connections, physiology, projections, and functions. While melanopsin-expressing cells are usually associated with behaviors like circadian photoentrainment and the pupillary light reflex, the characterization of multiple types has demonstrated a reach that may extend far beyond non-image-forming vision. In fact, studies have shown that individual types of melanopsin ganglion cells have the potential to impact image-forming functions like contrast sensitivity and color opponency. Thus, the goal of this review is to summarize the morphological and functional aspects of the six known types of melanopsin ganglion cells in the mouse retina and to highlight their respective roles in non-image-forming and image-forming vision. Although many melanopsin ganglion cell types do project to image-forming brain targets, it is important to note that this is only the first step in determining their influence on image-forming vision. Even so, the visual system has canonically been divided into these two functional realms and melanopsin ganglion cells have begun to challenge the boundary between them, providing an overlap of visual information that is complementary rather than redundant. Further studies on these ganglion cell photoreceptors will no doubt continue to illustrate an ever-expanding role for melanopsin ganglion cells in image-forming vision.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Maureen E Stabio
- Department of Cell & Developmental Biology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado
| | | |
Collapse
|
19
|
Tufford AR, Onyak JR, Sondereker KB, Lucas JA, Earley AM, Mattar P, Hattar S, Schmidt TM, Renna JM, Cayouette M. Melanopsin Retinal Ganglion Cells Regulate Cone Photoreceptor Lamination in the Mouse Retina. Cell Rep 2019; 23:2416-2428. [PMID: 29791852 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2018.04.086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2017] [Revised: 03/05/2018] [Accepted: 04/17/2018] [Indexed: 10/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Newborn neurons follow molecular cues to reach their final destination, but whether early life experience influences lamination remains largely unexplored. As light is among the first stimuli to reach the developing nervous system via intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs), we asked whether ipRGCs could affect lamination in the developing mouse retina. We show here that ablation of ipRGCs causes cone photoreceptors to mislocalize at different apicobasal positions in the retina. This effect is partly mediated by light-evoked activity in ipRGCs, as dark rearing or silencing of ipRGCs leads a subset of cones to mislocalize. Furthermore, ablation of ipRGCs alters the cone transcriptome and decreases expression of the dopamine receptor D4, while injection of L-DOPA or D4 receptor agonist rescues the displaced cone phenotype observed in dark-reared animals. These results show that early light-mediated activity in ipRGCs influences neuronal lamination and identify ipRGC-elicited dopamine release as a mechanism influencing cone position.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Adele R Tufford
- Cellular Neurobiology Research Unit, Institut de Recherches Cliniques de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada; Integrated Program in Neuroscience, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | | | | | - Jasmine A Lucas
- Department of Neurobiology, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
| | - Aaron M Earley
- Department of Neurobiology, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
| | - Pierre Mattar
- Cellular Neurobiology Research Unit, Institut de Recherches Cliniques de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Samer Hattar
- National Institute of Mental Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Tiffany M Schmidt
- Department of Neurobiology, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
| | - Jordan M Renna
- Department of Biology, University of Akron, Akron, OH, USA
| | - Michel Cayouette
- Cellular Neurobiology Research Unit, Institut de Recherches Cliniques de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada; Integrated Program in Neuroscience, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada; Department of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada; Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology and Division of Experimental Medicine, McGill University, Montréal, QC, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Do MTH. Melanopsin and the Intrinsically Photosensitive Retinal Ganglion Cells: Biophysics to Behavior. Neuron 2019; 104:205-226. [PMID: 31647894 PMCID: PMC6944442 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2019.07.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 172] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2019] [Revised: 06/19/2019] [Accepted: 07/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The mammalian visual system encodes information over a remarkable breadth of spatiotemporal scales and light intensities. This performance originates with its complement of photoreceptors: the classic rods and cones, as well as the intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs). IpRGCs capture light with a G-protein-coupled receptor called melanopsin, depolarize like photoreceptors of invertebrates such as Drosophila, discharge electrical spikes, and innervate dozens of brain areas to influence physiology, behavior, perception, and mood. Several visual responses rely on melanopsin to be sustained and maximal. Some require ipRGCs to occur at all. IpRGCs fulfill their roles using mechanisms that include an unusual conformation of the melanopsin protein, an extraordinarily slow phototransduction cascade, divisions of labor even among cells of a morphological type, and unorthodox configurations of circuitry. The study of ipRGCs has yielded insight into general topics that include photoreceptor evolution, cellular diversity, and the steps from biophysical mechanisms to behavior.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael Tri H Do
- F.M. Kirby Neurobiology Center and Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Center for Life Science 12061, 3 Blackfan Circle, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Berry M, Ahmed Z, Logan A. Return of function after CNS axon regeneration: Lessons from injury-responsive intrinsically photosensitive and alpha retinal ganglion cells. Prog Retin Eye Res 2019; 71:57-67. [DOI: 10.1016/j.preteyeres.2018.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2018] [Revised: 10/26/2018] [Accepted: 11/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
|
22
|
Thoreson WB, Dacey DM. Diverse Cell Types, Circuits, and Mechanisms for Color Vision in the Vertebrate Retina. Physiol Rev 2019; 99:1527-1573. [PMID: 31140374 PMCID: PMC6689740 DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00027.2018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2018] [Revised: 03/27/2019] [Accepted: 04/02/2019] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Synaptic interactions to extract information about wavelength, and thus color, begin in the vertebrate retina with three classes of light-sensitive cells: rod photoreceptors at low light levels, multiple types of cone photoreceptors that vary in spectral sensitivity, and intrinsically photosensitive ganglion cells that contain the photopigment melanopsin. When isolated from its neighbors, a photoreceptor confounds photon flux with wavelength and so by itself provides no information about color. The retina has evolved elaborate color opponent circuitry for extracting wavelength information by comparing the activities of different photoreceptor types broadly tuned to different parts of the visible spectrum. We review studies concerning the circuit mechanisms mediating opponent interactions in a range of species, from tetrachromatic fish with diverse color opponent cell types to common dichromatic mammals where cone opponency is restricted to a subset of specialized circuits. Distinct among mammals, primates have reinvented trichromatic color vision using novel strategies to incorporate evolution of an additional photopigment gene into the foveal structure and circuitry that supports high-resolution vision. Color vision is absent at scotopic light levels when only rods are active, but rods interact with cone signals to influence color perception at mesopic light levels. Recent evidence suggests melanopsin-mediated signals, which have been identified as a substrate for setting circadian rhythms, may also influence color perception. We consider circuits that may mediate these interactions. While cone opponency is a relatively simple neural computation, it has been implemented in vertebrates by diverse neural mechanisms that are not yet fully understood.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wallace B Thoreson
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Truhlsen Eye Institute, University of Nebraska Medical Center , Omaha, Nebraska ; and Department of Biological Structure, Washington National Primate Research Center, University of Washington , Seattle, Washington
| | - Dennis M Dacey
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Truhlsen Eye Institute, University of Nebraska Medical Center , Omaha, Nebraska ; and Department of Biological Structure, Washington National Primate Research Center, University of Washington , Seattle, Washington
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Felder-Schmittbuhl MP, Buhr ED, Dkhissi-Benyahya O, Hicks D, Peirson SN, Ribelayga CP, Sandu C, Spessert R, Tosini G. Ocular Clocks: Adapting Mechanisms for Eye Functions and Health. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2019; 59:4856-4870. [PMID: 30347082 PMCID: PMC6181243 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.18-24957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Vision is a highly rhythmic function adapted to the extensive changes in light intensity occurring over the 24-hour day. This adaptation relies on rhythms in cellular and molecular processes, which are orchestrated by a network of circadian clocks located within the retina and in the eye, synchronized to the day/night cycle and which, together, fine-tune detection and processing of light information over the 24-hour period and ensure retinal homeostasis. Systematic or high throughput studies revealed a series of genes rhythmically expressed in the retina, pointing at specific functions or pathways under circadian control. Conversely, knockout studies demonstrated that the circadian clock regulates retinal processing of light information. In addition, recent data revealed that it also plays a role in development as well as in aging of the retina. Regarding synchronization by the light/dark cycle, the retina displays the unique property of bringing together light sensitivity, clock machinery, and a wide range of rhythmic outputs. Melatonin and dopamine play a particular role in this system, being both outputs and inputs for clocks. The retinal cellular complexity suggests that mechanisms of regulation by light are diverse and intricate. In the context of the whole eye, the retina looks like a major determinant of phase resetting for other tissues such as the retinal pigmented epithelium or cornea. Understanding the pathways linking the cell-specific molecular machineries to their cognate outputs will be one of the major challenges for the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marie-Paule Felder-Schmittbuhl
- Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Université de Strasbourg, Institut des Neurosciences Cellulaires et Intégratives (UPR 3212), Strasbourg, France
| | - Ethan D Buhr
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Washington Medical School, Seattle, Washington, United States
| | - Ouria Dkhissi-Benyahya
- Univ Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Inserm, Stem Cell and Brain Research Institute U1208, Bron, France
| | - David Hicks
- Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Université de Strasbourg, Institut des Neurosciences Cellulaires et Intégratives (UPR 3212), Strasbourg, France
| | - Stuart N Peirson
- Sleep and Circadian Neuroscience Institute (SCNi), Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Christophe P Ribelayga
- Ruiz Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas, United States
| | - Cristina Sandu
- Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Université de Strasbourg, Institut des Neurosciences Cellulaires et Intégratives (UPR 3212), Strasbourg, France
| | - Rainer Spessert
- Institute of Functional and Clinical Anatomy, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Gianluca Tosini
- Neuroscience Institute and Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, United States
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Calligaro H, Coutanson C, Najjar RP, Mazzaro N, Cooper HM, Haddjeri N, Felder-Schmittbuhl MP, Dkhissi-Benyahya O. Rods contribute to the light-induced phase shift of the retinal clock in mammals. PLoS Biol 2019; 17:e2006211. [PMID: 30822304 PMCID: PMC6415865 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pbio.2006211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2018] [Revised: 03/13/2019] [Accepted: 02/13/2019] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
While rods, cones, and intrinsically photosensitive melanopsin-containing ganglion cells (ipRGCs) all drive light entrainment of the master circadian pacemaker of the suprachiasmatic nucleus, recent studies have proposed that entrainment of the mouse retinal clock is exclusively mediated by a UV-sensitive photopigment, neuropsin (OPN5). Here, we report that the retinal circadian clock can be phase shifted by short duration and relatively low-irradiance monochromatic light in the visible part of the spectrum, up to 520 nm. Phase shifts exhibit a classical photon dose-response curve. Comparing the response of mouse models that specifically lack middle-wavelength (MW) cones, melanopsin, and/or rods, we found that only the absence of rods prevented light-induced phase shifts of the retinal clock, whereas light-induced phase shifts of locomotor activity are normal. In a “rod-only” mouse model, phase shifting response of the retinal clock to light is conserved. At shorter UV wavelengths, our results also reveal additional recruitment of short-wavelength (SW) cones and/or OPN5. These findings suggest a primary role of rod photoreceptors in the light response of the retinal clock in mammals. The mammalian retina contains a circadian clock that plays a crucial role in adapting retinal physiology and visual function to light/dark changes. In addition, the retina coordinates rhythmic behavior and physiology by providing visual input to the master hypothalamic clock in the suprachiasmatic nucleus through a network of retinal photoreceptor cells involving rods, cones, and intrinsically photosensitive melanopsin-containing ganglion cells (ipRGCs). In contrast, recent studies argue that none of these photoreceptors are involved in light responses of the retinal clock and propose that photoresponses are exclusively mediated by the UV-sensitive photopigment neuropsin (OPN5). Our study demonstrates that rods are required to phase shift the retinal clock, while melanopsin and middle-wavelength (MW) cones influence the intrinsic period of the clock.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hugo Calligaro
- Univ Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Inserm, Stem Cell and Brain Research Institute, Bron, France
| | - Christine Coutanson
- Univ Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Inserm, Stem Cell and Brain Research Institute, Bron, France
| | - Raymond P. Najjar
- Visual Neurosciences Research Group, Singapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore
- Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences Program, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore
| | - Nadia Mazzaro
- CNRS UPR3212, Institut des Neurosciences Cellulaires et Intégratives, Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Howard M. Cooper
- Univ Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Inserm, Stem Cell and Brain Research Institute, Bron, France
| | - Nasser Haddjeri
- Univ Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Inserm, Stem Cell and Brain Research Institute, Bron, France
| | | | - Ouria Dkhissi-Benyahya
- Univ Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Inserm, Stem Cell and Brain Research Institute, Bron, France
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Kelbsch C, Strasser T, Chen Y, Feigl B, Gamlin PD, Kardon R, Peters T, Roecklein KA, Steinhauer SR, Szabadi E, Zele AJ, Wilhelm H, Wilhelm BJ. Standards in Pupillography. Front Neurol 2019; 10:129. [PMID: 30853933 PMCID: PMC6395400 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2019.00129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 117] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2018] [Accepted: 01/31/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The number of research groups studying the pupil is increasing, as is the number of publications. Consequently, new standards in pupillography are needed to formalize the methodology including recording conditions, stimulus characteristics, as well as suitable parameters of evaluation. Since the description of intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs) there has been an increased interest and broader application of pupillography in ophthalmology as well as other fields including psychology and chronobiology. Color pupillography plays an important role not only in research but also in clinical observational and therapy studies like gene therapy of hereditary retinal degenerations and psychopathology. Stimuli can vary in size, brightness, duration, and wavelength. Stimulus paradigms determine whether rhodopsin-driven rod responses, opsin-driven cone responses, or melanopsin-driven ipRGC responses are primarily elicited. Background illumination, adaptation state, and instruction for the participants will furthermore influence the results. This standard recommends a minimum set of variables to be used for pupillography and specified in the publication methodologies. Initiated at the 32nd International Pupil Colloquium 2017 in Morges, Switzerland, the aim of this manuscript is to outline standards in pupillography based on current knowledge and experience of pupil experts in order to achieve greater comparability of pupillographic studies. Such standards will particularly facilitate the proper application of pupillography by researchers new to the field. First we describe general standards, followed by specific suggestions concerning the demands of different targets of pupil research: the afferent and efferent reflex arc, pharmacology, psychology, sleepiness-related research and animal studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carina Kelbsch
- Pupil Research Group, Centre for Ophthalmology, University Hospitals Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Torsten Strasser
- Pupil Research Group, Centre for Ophthalmology, University Hospitals Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Yanjun Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, AL, United States
| | - Beatrix Feigl
- Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
- Queensland Eye Institute, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Paul D. Gamlin
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - Randy Kardon
- Neuro-Ophthalmology Division, University of Iowa and Iowa City VA Healthcare System, Iowa City, LA, United States
| | - Tobias Peters
- Pupil Research Group, Centre for Ophthalmology, University Hospitals Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Kathryn A. Roecklein
- Department of Psychology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Stuart R. Steinhauer
- VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System, VISN 4 MIRECC, University Drive C, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Elemer Szabadi
- Developmental Psychiatry, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew J. Zele
- Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Helmut Wilhelm
- Pupil Research Group, Centre for Ophthalmology, University Hospitals Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Barbara J. Wilhelm
- Pupil Research Group, Centre for Ophthalmology, University Hospitals Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Photoreceptive retinal ganglion cells control the information rate of the optic nerve. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2018; 115:E11817-E11826. [PMID: 30487225 PMCID: PMC6294960 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1810701115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Noise in the visual signal falls as ambient light increases, allowing the retina to extract more information from the scene. We show here that a measure of ambient light produced by the small number of inner retinal photoreceptors [intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs)] regulates intrinsic rates of spike firing across the population of retinal ganglion cells that form the optic nerve. Increased firing at higher irradiance allows the ganglion cells to convey more information. Our findings reveal a potential mechanism for increasing visual performance at high ambient light and show that changes in maintained activity can be used to provide proactive control over rates of information flow in the CNS. Information transfer in the brain relies upon energetically expensive spiking activity of neurons. Rates of information flow should therefore be carefully optimized, but mechanisms to control this parameter are poorly understood. We address this deficit in the visual system, where ambient light (irradiance) is predictive of the amount of information reaching the eye and ask whether a neural measure of irradiance can therefore be used to proactively control information flow along the optic nerve. We first show that firing rates for the retina’s output neurons [retinal ganglion cells (RGCs)] scale with irradiance and are positively correlated with rates of information and the gain of visual responses. Irradiance modulates firing in the absence of any other visual signal confirming that this is a genuine response to changing ambient light. Irradiance-driven changes in firing are observed across the population of RGCs (including in both ON and OFF units) but are disrupted in mice lacking melanopsin [the photopigment of irradiance-coding intrinsically photosensitive RGCs (ipRGCs)] and can be induced under steady light exposure by chemogenetic activation of ipRGCs. Artificially elevating firing by chemogenetic excitation of ipRGCs is sufficient to increase information flow by increasing the gain of visual responses, indicating that enhanced firing is a cause of increased information transfer at higher irradiance. Our results establish a retinal circuitry driving changes in RGC firing as an active response to alterations in ambient light to adjust the amount of visual information transmitted to the brain.
Collapse
|
27
|
Ostrin LA, Strang CE, Chang K, Jnawali A, Hung LF, Arumugam B, Frishman LJ, Smith EL, Gamlin PD. Immunotoxin-Induced Ablation of the Intrinsically Photosensitive Retinal Ganglion Cells in Rhesus Monkeys. Front Neurol 2018; 9:1000. [PMID: 30542318 PMCID: PMC6277788 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2018.01000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2018] [Accepted: 11/06/2018] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: Intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs) contain the photopigment melanopsin, and are primarily involved in non-image forming functions, such as the pupillary light reflex and circadian rhythm entrainment. The goal of this study was to develop and validate a targeted ipRGC immunotoxin to ultimately examine the role of ipRGCs in macaque monkeys. Methods: An immunotoxin for the macaque melanopsin gene (OPN4), consisting of a saporin-conjugated antibody directed at the N-terminus, was prepared in solutions of 0.316, 1, 3.16, 10, and 50 μg in vehicle, and delivered intravitreally to the right eye of six rhesus monkeys, respectively. Left eyes were injected with vehicle only. The pupillary light reflex (PLR), the ipRGC-driven post illumination pupil response (PIPR), and electroretinograms (ERGs) were recorded before and after injection. For pupil measurements, 1 and 5 s pulses of light were presented to the dilated right eye while the left pupil was imaged. Stimulation included 651 nm (133 cd/m2), and 4 intensities of 456 nm (16–500 cd/m2) light. Maximum pupil constriction and the 6 s PIPR were calculated. Retinal imaging was performed with optical coherence tomography (OCT), and eyes underwent OPN4 immunohistochemistry to evaluate immunotoxin specificity and ipRGC loss. Results: Before injection, animals showed robust pupil responses to 1 and 5 s blue light. After injection, baseline pupil size increased 12 ± 17%, maximum pupil constriction decreased, and the PIPR, a marker of ipRGC activity, was eliminated in all but the lowest immunotoxin concentration. For the highest concentrations, some inflammation and structural changes were observed with OCT, while eyes injected with lower concentrations appeared normal. ERG responses showed better preserved retinal function with lower concentrations. Immunohistochemistry showed 80–100% ipRGC elimination with the higher doses being more effective; however this could be partly due to inflammation that occurred at the higher concentrations. Conclusion: Findings demonstrated that the OPN4 macaque immunotoxin was specific for ipRGCs, and induced a graded reduction in the PLR, as well as, in ipRGC-driven pupil response with concentration. Further investigation of the effects of ipRGC ablation on ocular and systemic circadian rhythms and the pupil in rhesus monkeys will provide a better understanding of the role of ipRGCs in primates.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lisa A Ostrin
- College of Optometry, University of Houston, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Christianne E Strang
- Department of Psychology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - Kevin Chang
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - Ashutosh Jnawali
- College of Optometry, University of Houston, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Li-Fang Hung
- College of Optometry, University of Houston, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Baskar Arumugam
- College of Optometry, University of Houston, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Laura J Frishman
- College of Optometry, University of Houston, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Earl L Smith
- College of Optometry, University of Houston, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Paul D Gamlin
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Palumaa T, Gilhooley MJ, Jagannath A, Hankins MW, Hughes S, Peirson SN. Melanopsin: photoreceptors, physiology and potential. CURRENT OPINION IN PHYSIOLOGY 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cophys.2018.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
|
29
|
Combination of Multifocal Electroretinogram and Spectral-Domain OCT Can Increase Diagnostic Efficacy of Parkinson's Disease. PARKINSONS DISEASE 2018; 2018:4163239. [PMID: 29755728 PMCID: PMC5883930 DOI: 10.1155/2018/4163239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2017] [Revised: 10/10/2017] [Accepted: 12/12/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Background The retinal changes have been identified in morphology and function in Parkinson's disease (PD). However, the controversial results suggest that it is incredible that only using a single method for testing retinal change to evaluate Parkinson's disease. The aim of this study was to assess retinal changes and increase the diagnostic efficacy of Parkinson's disease with a combination of multifocal electroretinogram (mf-ERG) and spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) examinations. Method Fifty-three PD patients and forty-one healthy controls were enrolled. Subjects were assessed for retinal function using mf-ERG and retinal structure using SD-OCT. Results The PD patients had a significantly decreased amplitude density of P1 and a delayed implicit time of P1 in some regions. The macular retinal thickness, macular volume, and average RNFL thickness were decreased in PD. The AUC of a single parameter of either retinal function or structure was low. Both of them were higher in diagnostic value to discriminate PD patients. Conclusion The amplitude density of P1 combined with macular volume can get a high diagnostic efficacy to discriminate between participants with or without PD. It indicates that a combination of mf-ERG and SD-OCT provides a good clinical biomarker for diagnosis of PD.
Collapse
|
30
|
Rosli Y, Carle CF, Ho Y, James AC, Kolic M, Rohan EMF, Maddess T. Retinotopic effects of visual attention revealed by dichoptic multifocal pupillography. Sci Rep 2018; 8:2991. [PMID: 29445236 PMCID: PMC5813021 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-21196-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2017] [Accepted: 01/31/2018] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Multifocal pupillographic objective perimetry (mfPOP) has recently been shown to be able to measure cortical function. Here we assessed 44 regions of the central 60 degrees of the visual fields of each eye concurrently in 7 minutes/test. We examined how foveally- and peripherally-directed attention changed response sensitivity and delay across the 44 visual field locations/eye. Four experiments were completed comparing white, yellow and blue stimulus arrays. Experiments 1 to 4 tested 16, 23, 9 and 6 subjects, 49/54 being unique. Experiment 1, Experiments 2 and 3, and Experiment 4 used three variants of the mfPOP method that provided increasingly improved signal quality. Experiments 1 to 3 examined centrally directed attention, and Experiment 4 compared effects of attention directed to different peripheral targets. Attention reduced the sensitivity of the peripheral locations in Experiment 1, but only for the white stimuli not yellow. Experiment 2 confirmed that result. Experiment 3 showed that blue stimuli behaved like white. Peripheral attention showed increased sensitivity around the attentional targets. The results are discussed in terms of the cortical inputs to the pupillary system. The results agree with those from multifocal and other fMRI and VEP studies. mfPOP may be a useful adjunct to those methods.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yanti Rosli
- Eccles Institute of Neuroscience, John Curtin School of Medical Research, Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
- Biomedical Science Program, Diagnostic & Applied Health Sciences, Faculty of Health Science, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Raja Muda Abdul Aziz, 50300, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Corinne Frances Carle
- Eccles Institute of Neuroscience, John Curtin School of Medical Research, Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | - Yiling Ho
- Eccles Institute of Neuroscience, John Curtin School of Medical Research, Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | - Andrew Charles James
- Eccles Institute of Neuroscience, John Curtin School of Medical Research, Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | - Maria Kolic
- Eccles Institute of Neuroscience, John Curtin School of Medical Research, Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
- Centre for Eye Research Australia, University of Melbourne, East Melbourne, Australia
| | - Emilie Marie Françoise Rohan
- Eccles Institute of Neuroscience, John Curtin School of Medical Research, Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | - Ted Maddess
- Eccles Institute of Neuroscience, John Curtin School of Medical Research, Australian National University, Canberra, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Johnson EN, Westbrook T, Shayesteh R, Chen EL, Schumacher JW, Fitzpatrick D, Field GD. Distribution and diversity of intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells in tree shrew. J Comp Neurol 2017; 527:328-344. [PMID: 29238991 DOI: 10.1002/cne.24377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2017] [Revised: 12/03/2017] [Accepted: 12/04/2017] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs) mediate the pupillary light reflex, circadian entrainment, and may contribute to luminance and color perception. The diversity of ipRGCs varies from rodents to primates, suggesting differences in their contributions to retinal output. To further understand the variability in their organization and diversity across species, we used immunohistochemical methods to examine ipRGCs in tree shrew (Tupaia belangeri). Tree shrews share membership in the same clade, or evolutionary branch, as rodents and primates. They are highly visual, diurnal animals with a cone-dominated retina and a geniculo-cortical organization resembling that of primates. We identified cells with morphological similarities to M1 and M2 cells described previously in rodents and primates. M1-like cells typically had somas in the ganglion cell layer, with 23% displaced to the inner nuclear layer (INL). However, unlike M1 cells, they had bistratified dendritic fields ramifying in S1 and S5 that collectively tiled space. M2-like cells had dendritic fields restricted to S5 that were smaller and more densely branching. A novel third type of melanopsin immunopositive cell was identified. These cells had somata exclusively in the INL and monostratified dendritic fields restricted to S1 that tiled space. Surprisingly, these cells immunolabeled for tyrosine hydroxylase, a key component in dopamine synthesis. These cells immunolabeled for an RGC marker, not amacrine cell markers, suggesting that they are dopaminergic ipRGCs. We found no evidence for M4 or M5 ipRGCs, described previously in rodents. These results identify some organizational features of the ipRGC system that are canonical versus species-specific.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth N Johnson
- Neurobiology Department, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina.,Wharton Neuroscience Initiative, The Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Teleza Westbrook
- Neurobiology Department, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Rod Shayesteh
- Neurobiology Department, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Emily L Chen
- Neurobiology Department, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
| | | | | | - Greg D Field
- Neurobiology Department, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
The human visual cortex response to melanopsin-directed stimulation is accompanied by a distinct perceptual experience. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2017; 114:12291-12296. [PMID: 29087940 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1711522114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The photopigment melanopsin supports reflexive visual functions in people, such as pupil constriction and circadian photoentrainment. What contribution melanopsin makes to conscious visual perception is less studied. We devised a stimulus that targeted melanopsin separately from the cones using pulsed (3-s) spectral modulations around a photopic background. Pupillometry confirmed that the melanopsin stimulus evokes a response different from that produced by cone stimulation. In each of four subjects, a functional MRI response in area V1 was found. This response scaled with melanopic contrast and was not easily explained by imprecision in the silencing of the cones. Twenty additional subjects then observed melanopsin pulses and provided a structured rating of the perceptual experience. Melanopsin stimulation was described as an unpleasant, blurry, minimal brightening that quickly faded. We conclude that isolated stimulation of melanopsin is likely associated with a response within the cortical visual pathway and with an evoked conscious percept.
Collapse
|
33
|
Abstract
Amacrine cells are a diverse set of local circuit neurons of the inner retina, and they all release either GABA or glycine, amino acid neurotransmitters that are generally inhibitory. But some types of amacrine cells have another function besides inhibiting other neurons. One glycinergic amacrine cell, the Aii type, excites a subset of bipolar cells via extensive gap junctions while inhibiting others at chemical synapses. Many types of GABAergic amacrine cells also release monoamines, acetylcholine, or neuropeptides. There is now good evidence that another type of amacrine cell releases glycine at some of its synapses and releases the excitatory amino acid glutamate at others. The glutamatergic synapses are made onto a subset of retinal ganglion cells and amacrine cells and have the asymmetric postsynaptic densities characteristic of central excitatory synapses. The glycinergic synapses are made onto other types of ganglion cells and have the symmetric postsynaptic densities characteristic of central inhibitory synapses. These amacrine cells, which contain vesicular glutamate transporter 3, will be the focus of this brief review.
Collapse
|
34
|
Liu LL, Spix NJ, Zhang DQ. NMDA Receptors Contribute to Retrograde Synaptic Transmission from Ganglion Cell Photoreceptors to Dopaminergic Amacrine Cells. Front Cell Neurosci 2017; 11:279. [PMID: 28959188 PMCID: PMC5603656 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2017.00279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2017] [Accepted: 08/29/2017] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Recently, a line of evidence has demonstrated that the vertebrate retina possesses a novel retrograde signaling pathway. In this pathway, phototransduction is initiated by the photopigment melanopsin, which is expressed in a small population of retinal ganglion cells. These ganglion cell photoreceptors then signal to dopaminergic amacrine cells (DACs) through glutamatergic synapses, influencing visual light adaptation. We have previously demonstrated that in Mg2+-containing solution, α-amino-3-hydroxyl-5-methyl-4-isoxazole-propionate (AMPA) receptors mediate this glutamatergic transmission. Here, we demonstrate that removing extracellular Mg2+ enhances melanopsin-based DAC light responses at membrane potentials more negative than −40 mV. Melanopsin-based responses in Mg2+-free solution were profoundly suppressed by the selective N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonist D-AP5. In addition, application of NMDA to the retina produced excitatory inward currents in DACs. These data strongly suggest that DACs express functional NMDA receptors. We further found that in the presence of Mg2+, D-AP5 reduced the peak amplitude of melanopsin-based DAC responses by ~70% when the cells were held at their resting membrane potential (−50 mV), indicating that NMDA receptors are likely to contribute to retrograde signal transmission to DACs under physiological conditions. Moreover, our data show that melanopsin-based NMDA-receptor-mediated responses in DACs are suppressed by antagonists specific to either the NR2A or NR2B receptor subtype. Immunohistochemical results show that NR2A and NR2B subunits are expressed on DAC somata and processes. These results suggest that DACs express functional NMDA receptors containing both NR2A and NR2B subunits. Collectively, our data reveal that, along with AMPA receptors, NR2A- and NR2B-containing NMDA receptors mediate retrograde signal transmission from ganglion cell photoreceptors to DACs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lei-Lei Liu
- Eye Research Institute, Oakland UniversityRochester, MI, United States
| | - Nathan J Spix
- Eye Research Institute, Oakland UniversityRochester, MI, United States
| | - Dao-Qi Zhang
- Eye Research Institute, Oakland UniversityRochester, MI, United States
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Zhao X, Wong KY, Zhang DQ. Mapping physiological inputs from multiple photoreceptor systems to dopaminergic amacrine cells in the mouse retina. Sci Rep 2017; 7:7920. [PMID: 28801634 PMCID: PMC5554153 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-08172-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2017] [Accepted: 07/07/2017] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
In the vertebrate retina, dopamine is synthesized and released by a specialized type of amacrine cell, the dopaminergic amacrine cell (DAC). DAC activity is stimulated by rods, cones, and melanopsin-expressing intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells upon illumination. However, the relative contributions of these three photoreceptor systems to the DAC light-induced response are unknown. Here we found that rods excite dark-adapted DACs across a wide range of stimulation intensities, primarily through connexin-36-dependent rod pathways. Similar rod-driven responses were observed in both ventral and dorsal DACs. We further found that in the dorsal retina, M-cones and melanopsin contribute to dark-adapted DAC responses with a similar threshold intensity. In the ventral retina, however, the threshold intensity for M-cone-driven responses was two log units greater than that observed in dorsal DACs, and melanopsin-driven responses were almost undetectable. We also examined the DAC response to prolonged adapting light and found such responses to be mediated by rods under dim lighting conditions, rods/M-cones/melanopsin under intermediate lighting conditions, and cones and melanopsin under bright lighting conditions. Our results elucidate the relative contributions of the three photoreceptor systems to DACs under different lighting conditions, furthering our understanding of the role these cells play in the visual system.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiwu Zhao
- Eye Research Institute, Oakland University, Rochester, MI, United States.,Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Kwoon Y Wong
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States.,Department of Molecular, Cellular & Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Dao-Qi Zhang
- Eye Research Institute, Oakland University, Rochester, MI, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
M1 ipRGCs Influence Visual Function through Retrograde Signaling in the Retina. J Neurosci 2017; 36:7184-97. [PMID: 27383593 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.3500-15.2016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2015] [Accepted: 05/26/2016] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
UNLABELLED Melanopsin-expressing intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs, with five subtypes named M1-M5) are a unique subclass of RGCs with axons that project directly to many brain nuclei involved in non-image-forming functions such as circadian photoentrainment and the pupillary light reflex. Recent evidence suggests that melanopsin-based signals also influence image-forming visual function, including light adaptation, but the mechanisms involved are unclear. Intriguingly, a small population of M1 ipRGCs have intraretinal axon collaterals that project toward the outer retina. Using genetic mouse models, we provide three lines of evidence showing that these axon collaterals make connections with upstream dopaminergic amacrine cells (DACs): (1) ipRGC signaling to DACs is blocked by tetrodotoxin both in vitro and in vivo, indicating that ipRGC-to-DAC transmission requires voltage-gated Na(+) channels; (2) this transmission is partly dependent on N-type Ca(2+) channels, which are possibly expressed in the axon collateral terminals of ipRGCs; and (3) fluorescence microscopy reveals that ipRGC axon collaterals make putative presynaptic contact with DACs. We further demonstrate that elimination of M1 ipRGCs attenuates light adaptation, as evidenced by an impaired electroretinogram b-wave from cones, whereas a dopamine receptor agonist can potentiate the cone-driven b-wave of retinas lacking M1 ipRGCs. Together, the results strongly suggest that ipRGCs transmit luminance signals retrogradely to the outer retina through the dopaminergic system and in turn influence retinal light adaptation. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Melanopsin-expressing intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs) comprise a third class of retinal photoreceptors that are known to mediate physiological responses such as circadian photoentrainment. However, investigation into whether and how ipRGCs contribute to vision has just begun. Here, we provide convergent anatomical and physiological evidence that axon collaterals of ipRGCs constitute a centrifugal pathway to DACs, conveying melanopsin-based signals from the innermost retina to the outer retina. We further demonstrate that retrograde signals likely influence visual processing because elimination of axon collateral-bearing ipRGCs impairs light adaptation by limiting dopamine-dependent facilitation of the cone pathway. Our findings strongly support the hypothesis that retrograde melanopsin-based signaling influences visual function locally within the retina, a notion that refutes the dogma that RGCs only provide physiological signals to the brain.
Collapse
|
37
|
Milosavljevic N, Allen AE, Cehajic-Kapetanovic J, Lucas RJ. Chemogenetic Activation of ipRGCs Drives Changes in Dark-Adapted (Scotopic) Electroretinogram. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2017; 57:6305-6312. [PMID: 27893096 PMCID: PMC5119489 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.16-20448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose The purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of activating melanopsin-expressing intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs) on dark-adapted (scotopic) electroretinograms (ERG). Methods We used mice (Opn4Cre/+) expressing cre recombinase in melanopsin-expressing cells for a targeted gene delivery of a chemogenetic Gq-coupled receptor, hM3Dq, to ipRGCs. Intraperitoneal injection of clozapine N-oxide (CNO) at 5 mg/kg was used for acute activation of hM3Dq and thus excitation of ipRGCs in darkness. Dark-adapted flash ERGs were recorded across a 9-fold range of irradiances from hM3Dq Opn4Cre/+ and control Opn4Cre/+ mice before and after intraperitoneal injection of CNO. A- and b-wave amplitudes and implicit times and oscillatory potentials (OPs) were analyzed. Paired-flash stimuli were used to isolate cone-driven responses. Results Clozapine N-oxide application suppressed a- and b-wave amplitudes of the dark-adapted ERG across the flash intensity range in hM3Dq Opn4Cre/+ mice compared to control mice. Examination of the normalized irradiance-response functions revealed a shift in b-wave but not a-wave sensitivity. No changes in a- and b-wave implicit times were detected. Total OP amplitudes were also reduced in hM3Dq Opn4Cre/+ mice compared to controls following CNO administration. The paired-flash method revealed reduction in both the first (rods and cones) and second (cones only) flash response. Conclusions Acute and selective activation of ipRGCs modulates the amplitude of both a- and b-waves of the scotopic ERG, indicating that the influence of this ganglion cell class on the retinal physiology extends to the photoreceptors as well as their downstream pathways.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nina Milosavljevic
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, the University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Annette E Allen
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, the University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Jasmina Cehajic-Kapetanovic
- Centre for Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences, Institute of Human Development, the University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Robert J Lucas
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, the University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Chew KS, Renna JM, McNeill DS, Fernandez DC, Keenan WT, Thomsen MB, Ecker JL, Loevinsohn GS, VanDunk C, Vicarel DC, Tufford A, Weng S, Gray PA, Cayouette M, Herzog ED, Zhao H, Berson DM, Hattar S. A subset of ipRGCs regulates both maturation of the circadian clock and segregation of retinogeniculate projections in mice. eLife 2017; 6:e22861. [PMID: 28617242 PMCID: PMC5513697 DOI: 10.7554/elife.22861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2016] [Accepted: 06/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The visual system consists of two major subsystems, image-forming circuits that drive conscious vision and non-image-forming circuits for behaviors such as circadian photoentrainment. While historically considered non-overlapping, recent evidence has uncovered crosstalk between these subsystems. Here, we investigated shared developmental mechanisms. We revealed an unprecedented role for light in the maturation of the circadian clock and discovered that intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs) are critical for this refinement process. In addition, ipRGCs regulate retinal waves independent of light, and developmental ablation of a subset of ipRGCs disrupts eye-specific segregation of retinogeniculate projections. Specifically, a subset of ipRGCs, comprising ~200 cells and which project intraretinally and to circadian centers in the brain, are sufficient to mediate both of these developmental processes. Thus, this subset of ipRGCs constitute a shared node in the neural networks that mediate light-dependent maturation of the circadian clock and light-independent refinement of retinogeniculate projections.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kylie S Chew
- Department of Biology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, United States
- Department of Biology, Stanford University, Stanford, United States
| | - Jordan M Renna
- Department of Biology, Program in Integrated Bioscience, The University of Akron, Akron, United States
| | - David S McNeill
- Department of Biology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, United States
| | - Diego C Fernandez
- Department of Biology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, United States
| | - William T Keenan
- Department of Biology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, United States
| | - Michael B Thomsen
- Department of Biology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, United States
| | - Jennifer L Ecker
- Department of Biology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, United States
| | | | - Cassandra VanDunk
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Washington University, St. Louis, United States
- Department of Neurobiology, Northwestern University, Evanston, United States
| | - Daniel C Vicarel
- Department of Biology, Program in Integrated Bioscience, The University of Akron, Akron, United States
| | - Adele Tufford
- Cellular Neurobiology Research Unit, Institut De Recherches Cliniques De Montréal, Montreal, Canada
| | - Shijun Weng
- Department of Neuroscience, Brown University, Providence, United States
| | - Paul A Gray
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Washington University, St. Louis, United States
- Indigo Agriculture, Charlestown, United States
| | - Michel Cayouette
- Cellular Neurobiology Research Unit, Institut De Recherches Cliniques De Montréal, Montreal, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, Université De Montréal, Montreal, Canada
| | - Erik D Herzog
- Department of Biology, Washington University, St. Louis, United States
| | - Haiqing Zhao
- Department of Biology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, United States
| | - David M Berson
- Department of Neuroscience, Brown University, Providence, United States
| | - Samer Hattar
- Department of Biology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, United States
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Georg B, Ghelli A, Giordano C, Ross-Cisneros FN, Sadun AA, Carelli V, Hannibal J, La Morgia C. Melanopsin-expressing retinal ganglion cells are resistant to cell injury, but not always. Mitochondrion 2017; 36:77-84. [PMID: 28412540 DOI: 10.1016/j.mito.2017.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2016] [Revised: 03/14/2017] [Accepted: 04/07/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Melanopsin retinal ganglion cells (mRGCs) are intrinsically photosensitive RGCs deputed to non-image forming functions of the eye such as synchronization of circadian rhythms to light-dark cycle. These cells are characterized by unique electrophysiological, anatomical and biochemical properties and are usually more resistant than conventional RGCs to different insults, such as axotomy and different paradigms of stress. We also demonstrated that these cells are relatively spared compared to conventional RGCs in mitochondrial optic neuropathies (Leber's hereditary optic neuropathy and Dominant Optic Atrophy). However, these cells are affected in other neurodegenerative conditions, such as glaucoma and Alzheimer's disease. We here review the current evidences that may underlie this dichotomy. We also present our unpublished data on cell experiments demonstrating that melanopsin itself does not explain the robustness of these cells and some preliminary data on immunohistochemical assessment of mitochondria in mRGCs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Birgitte Georg
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg Hospital, Faculty Health Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Anna Ghelli
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Carla Giordano
- Department of Radiology, Oncology and Pathology, Sapienza, University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Alfredo A Sadun
- Doheny Eye Institute, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Department of Ophthalmology, David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Valerio Carelli
- IRCCS Institute of Neurological Sciences of Bologna, Bellaria Hospital, Bologna, Italy; Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences (DIBINEM), University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Jens Hannibal
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg Hospital, Faculty Health Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Chiara La Morgia
- IRCCS Institute of Neurological Sciences of Bologna, Bellaria Hospital, Bologna, Italy; Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences (DIBINEM), University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Hannibal J, Christiansen AT, Heegaard S, Fahrenkrug J, Kiilgaard JF. Melanopsin expressing human retinal ganglion cells: Subtypes, distribution, and intraretinal connectivity. J Comp Neurol 2017; 525:1934-1961. [PMID: 28160289 DOI: 10.1002/cne.24181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 112] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2016] [Revised: 01/24/2017] [Accepted: 01/25/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs) expressing the photopigment melanopsin belong to a heterogenic population of RGCs which regulate the circadian clock, masking behavior, melatonin suppression, the pupillary light reflex, and sleep/wake cycles. The different functions seem to be associated to different subtypes of melanopsin cells. In rodents, subtype classification has associated subtypes to function. In primate and human retina such classification has so far, not been applied. In the present study using antibodies against N- and C-terminal parts of human melanopsin, confocal microscopy and 3D reconstruction of melanopsin immunoreactive (-ir) RGCs, we applied the criteria used in mouse on human melanopsin-ir RGCs. We identified M1, displaced M1, M2, and M4 cells. We found two other subtypes of melanopsin-ir RGCs, which were named "gigantic M1 (GM1)" and "gigantic displaced M1 (GDM1)." Few M3 cells and no M5 subtypes were labeled. Total cell counts from one male and one female retina revealed that the human retina contains 7283 ± 237 melanopsin-ir (0.63-0.75% of the total number of RGCs). The melanopsin subtypes were unevenly distributed. Most significant was the highest density of M4 cells in the nasal retina. We identified input to the melanopsin-ir RGCs from AII amacrine cells and directly from rod bipolar cells via ribbon synapses in the innermost ON layer of the inner plexiform layer (IPL) and from dopaminergic amacrine cells and GABAergic processes in the outermost OFF layer of the IPL. The study characterizes a heterogenic population of human melanopsin-ir RGCs, which most likely are involved in different functions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jens Hannibal
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Bispebjerg Hospital, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Steffen Heegaard
- Department of Ophalmology, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Pathology, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jan Fahrenkrug
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Bispebjerg Hospital, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jens Folke Kiilgaard
- Department of Ophalmology, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Nasir-Ahmad S, Lee SCS, Martin PR, Grünert U. Melanopsin-expressing ganglion cells in human retina: Morphology, distribution, and synaptic connections. J Comp Neurol 2017; 527:312-327. [PMID: 28097654 DOI: 10.1002/cne.24176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2016] [Revised: 01/09/2017] [Accepted: 01/10/2017] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Melanopsin-expressing retinal ganglion cells are intrinsically photosensitive cells that are involved in non-image forming visual processes such as the pupillary light reflex and circadian entrainment but also contribute to visual perception. Here we used immunohistochemistry to study the morphology, density, distribution, and synaptic connectivity of melanopsin-expressing ganglion cells in four post mortem human donor retinas. Two types of melanopsin-expressing ganglion cells were distinguished based on their dendritic stratification near either the outer or the inner border of the inner plexiform layer. Outer stratifying cells make up on average 60% of the melanopsin-expressing cells. About half of the melanopsin-expressing cells (or 80% of the outer stratifying cells) have their soma displaced to the inner nuclear layer. Inner stratifying cells have their soma exclusively in the ganglion cell layer and include a small proportion of bistratified cells. The dendritic field diameter of melanopsin-expressing cells ranges from 250 (near the fovea) to 1,000 µm in peripheral retina. The dendritic trees of outer stratifying cells cover the retina independent of soma location. The dendritic fields of both outer and inner stratifying cells show a high degree of overlap with a coverage factor of approximately two. Melanopsin-expressing cells occur at an average peak density of between ∼20 and ∼40 cells/mm2 at about 2 mm eccentricity, the density drops to below ∼10 cells/mm2 at about 8 mm eccentricity. Both the outer and inner stratifying dendrites express postsynaptic density (PSD95) immunoreactive puncta suggesting that they receive synaptic input from bipolar cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Subha Nasir-Ahmad
- Save Sight Institute and Department of Clinical Ophthalmology, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, 2000, Australia
| | - Sammy C S Lee
- Save Sight Institute and Department of Clinical Ophthalmology, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, 2000, Australia.,Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Integrative Brain Function, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, 2000, Australia
| | - Paul R Martin
- Save Sight Institute and Department of Clinical Ophthalmology, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, 2000, Australia.,Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Integrative Brain Function, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, 2000, Australia.,School of Medical Sciences, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, 2000, Australia
| | - Ulrike Grünert
- Save Sight Institute and Department of Clinical Ophthalmology, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, 2000, Australia.,Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Integrative Brain Function, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, 2000, Australia.,School of Medical Sciences, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, 2000, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Liao H, Ren X, Peterson BB, Marshak DW, Yau K, Gamlin PD, Dacey DM. Melanopsin-expressing ganglion cells on macaque and human retinas form two morphologically distinct populations. J Comp Neurol 2016; 524:2845-72. [PMID: 26972791 PMCID: PMC4970949 DOI: 10.1002/cne.23995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2015] [Revised: 01/30/2016] [Accepted: 03/07/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The long-term goal of this research is to understand how retinal ganglion cells that express the photopigment melanopsin, also known as OPN4, contribute to vision in humans and other primates. Here we report the results of anatomical studies using our polyclonal antibody specifically against human melanopsin that confirm and extend previous descriptions of melanopsin cells in primates. In macaque and human retina, two distinct populations of melanopsin cells were identified based on dendritic stratification in either the inner or the outer portion of the inner plexiform layer (IPL). Variation in dendritic field size and cell density with eccentricity was confirmed, and dendritic spines, a new feature of melanopsin cells, were described. The spines were the sites of input from DB6 diffuse bipolar cell axon terminals to the inner stratifying type of melanopsin cells. The outer stratifying melanopsin type received inputs from DB6 bipolar cells via a sparse outer axonal arbor. Outer stratifying melanopsin cells also received inputs from axon terminals of dopaminergic amacrine cells. On the outer stratifying melanopsin cells, ribbon synapses from bipolar cells and conventional synapses from amacrine cells were identified in electron microscopic immunolabeling experiments. Both inner and outer stratifying melanopsin cell types were retrogradely labeled following tracer injection in the lateral geniculate nucleus (LGN). In addition, a method for targeting melanopsin cells for intracellular injection using their intrinsic fluorescence was developed. This technique was used to demonstrate that melanopsin cells were tracer coupled to amacrine cells and would be applicable to electrophysiological experiments in the future. J. Comp. Neurol. 524:2845-2872, 2016. © 2016 The Authors The Journal of Comparative Neurology Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hsi‐Wen Liao
- Department of NeuroscienceJohn Hopkins University School of MedicineBaltimoreMaryland21205‐2185
| | - Xiaozhi Ren
- Department of NeuroscienceJohn Hopkins University School of MedicineBaltimoreMaryland21205‐2185
| | - Beth B. Peterson
- Department of Biological StructureUniversity of Washington and the Washington National Primate Research CenterSeattleWashington98195‐7420
| | - David W. Marshak
- Department of Neurobiology and AnatomyUniversity of Texas Medical SchoolHoustonTexas77030
| | - King‐Wai Yau
- Department of NeuroscienceJohn Hopkins University School of MedicineBaltimoreMaryland21205‐2185
- Department of OphthalmologyJohn Hopkins University School of MedicineBaltimoreMaryland21205‐2185
| | - Paul D. Gamlin
- Department of OphthalmologyUniversity of Alabama at BirminghamBirminghamAlabama35294
| | - Dennis M. Dacey
- Department of Biological StructureUniversity of Washington and the Washington National Primate Research CenterSeattleWashington98195‐7420
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Arroyo DA, Kirkby LA, Feller MB. Retinal Waves Modulate an Intraretinal Circuit of Intrinsically Photosensitive Retinal Ganglion Cells. J Neurosci 2016; 36:6892-905. [PMID: 27358448 PMCID: PMC4926237 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.0572-16.2016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2016] [Revised: 05/11/2016] [Accepted: 05/16/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
UNLABELLED Before the maturation of rod and cone photoreceptors, the developing retina relies on light detection by intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs) to drive early light-dependent behaviors. ipRGCs are output neurons of the retina; however, they also form functional microcircuits within the retina itself. Whether ipRGC microcircuits exist during development and whether they influence early light detection remain unknown. Here, we investigate the neural circuit that underlies the ipRGC-driven light response in developing mice. We use a combination of calcium imaging, tracer coupling, and electrophysiology experiments to show that ipRGCs form extensive gap junction networks that strongly contribute to the overall light response of the developing retina. Interestingly, we found that gap junction coupling was modulated by spontaneous retinal waves, such that acute blockade of waves dramatically increased the extent of coupling and hence increased the number of light-responsive neurons. Moreover, using an optical sensor, we found that this wave-dependent modulation of coupling is driven by dopamine that is phasically released by retinal waves. Our results demonstrate that ipRGCs form gap junction microcircuits during development that are modulated by retinal waves; these circuits determine the extent of the light response and thus potentially impact the processing of early visual information and light-dependent developmental functions. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Light-dependent functions in early development are mediated by intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs). Here we show that ipRGCs form an extensive gap junction network with other retinal neurons, including other ipRGCs, which shapes the retina's overall light response. Blocking cholinergic retinal waves, which are the primary source of neural activity before maturation of photoreceptors, increased the extent of ipRGC gap junction networks, thus increasing the number of light-responsive cells. We determined that this modulation of ipRGC gap junction networks occurs via dopamine released by waves. These results demonstrate that retinal waves mediate dopaminergic modulation of gap junction networks to regulate pre-vision light responses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Marla B Feller
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, Helen Wills Neuroscience Institute, University of California-Berkeley, Berkeley, California 94720-3200
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Abstract
The suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) receives direct retinal input from the intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs) for circadian photoentrainment. Interestingly, the SCN is the only brain region that receives equal inputs from the left and right eyes. Despite morphological assessments showing that axonal fibers originating from ipRGCs cover the entire SCN, physiological evidence suggests that only vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP)/gastrin-releasing peptide (GRP) cells located ventrally in the SCN receive retinal input. It is still unclear, therefore, which subpopulation of SCN neurons receives synaptic input from the retina and how the SCN receives equal inputs from both eyes. Here, using single ipRGC axonal tracing and a confocal microscopic analysis in mice, we show that ipRGCs have elaborate innervation patterns throughout the entire SCN. Unlike conventional retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) that innervate visual targets either ipsilaterally or contralaterally, a single ipRGC can bilaterally innervate the SCN. ipRGCs form synaptic contacts with major peptidergic cells of the SCN, including VIP, GRP, and arginine vasopressin (AVP) neurons, with each ipRGC innervating specific subdomains of the SCN. Furthermore, a single SCN-projecting ipRGC can send collateral inputs to many other brain regions. However, the size and complexity of the axonal arborizations in non-SCN regions are less elaborate than those in the SCN. Our results provide a better understanding of how retinal neurons connect to the central circadian pacemaker to synchronize endogenous circadian clocks with the solar day.
Collapse
|
45
|
Promoting axon regeneration in the adult CNS by modulation of the melanopsin/GPCR signaling. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2016; 113:1937-42. [PMID: 26831088 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1523645113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Cell-type-specific G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) signaling regulates distinct neuronal responses to various stimuli and is essential for axon guidance and targeting during development. However, its function in axonal regeneration in the mature CNS remains elusive. We found that subtypes of intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs) in mice maintained high mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) levels after axotomy and that the light-sensitive GPCR melanopsin mediated this sustained expression. Melanopsin overexpression in the RGCs stimulated axonal regeneration after optic nerve crush by up-regulating mTOR complex 1 (mTORC1). The extent of the regeneration was comparable to that observed after phosphatase and tensin homolog (Pten) knockdown. Both the axon regeneration and mTOR activity that were enhanced by melanopsin required light stimulation and Gq/11 signaling. Specifically, activating Gq in RGCs elevated mTOR activation and promoted axonal regeneration. Melanopsin overexpression in RGCs enhanced the amplitude and duration of their light response, and silencing them with Kir2.1 significantly suppressed the increased mTOR signaling and axon regeneration that were induced by melanopsin. Thus, our results provide a strategy to promote axon regeneration after CNS injury by modulating neuronal activity through GPCR signaling.
Collapse
|
46
|
All spiking, sustained ON displaced amacrine cells receive gap-junction input from melanopsin ganglion cells. Curr Biol 2015; 25:2763-2773. [PMID: 26441349 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2015.09.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2015] [Revised: 08/15/2015] [Accepted: 09/05/2015] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Retinal neurons exhibit sustained versus transient light responses, which are thought to encode low- and high-frequency stimuli, respectively. This dichotomy has been recognized since the earliest intracellular recordings from the 1960s, but the underlying mechanisms are not yet fully understood. We report that in the ganglion cell layer of rat retinas, all spiking amacrine interneurons with sustained ON photoresponses receive gap-junction input from intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs), recently discovered photoreceptors that specialize in prolonged irradiance detection. This input presumably allows ipRGCs to regulate the secretion of neuromodulators from these interneurons. We have identified three morphological varieties of such ipRGC-driven displaced amacrine cells: (1) monostratified cells with dendrites terminating exclusively in sublamina S5 of the inner plexiform layer, (2) bistratified cells with dendrites in both S1 and S5, and (3) polyaxonal cells with dendrites and axons stratifying in S5. Most of these amacrine cells are wide field, although some are medium field. The three classes respond to light differently, suggesting that they probably perform diverse functions. These results demonstrate that ipRGCs are a major source of tonic visual information within the retina and exert widespread intraretinal influence. They also add to recent evidence that ganglion cells signal not only to the brain.
Collapse
|
47
|
Pickard GE, So KF, Pu M. Dorsal raphe nucleus projecting retinal ganglion cells: Why Y cells? Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2015; 57:118-31. [PMID: 26363667 PMCID: PMC4646079 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2015.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2014] [Revised: 06/30/2015] [Accepted: 08/01/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Retinal ganglion Y (alpha) cells are found in retinas ranging from frogs to mice to primates. The highly conserved nature of the large, fast conducting retinal Y cell is a testament to its fundamental task, although precisely what this task is remained ill-defined. The recent discovery that Y-alpha retinal ganglion cells send axon collaterals to the serotonergic dorsal raphe nucleus (DRN) in addition to the lateral geniculate nucleus (LGN), medial interlaminar nucleus (MIN), pretectum and the superior colliculus (SC) has offered new insights into the important survival tasks performed by these cells with highly branched axons. We propose that in addition to its role in visual perception, the Y-alpha retinal ganglion cell provides concurrent signals via axon collaterals to the DRN, the major source of serotonergic afferents to the forebrain, to dramatically inhibit 5-HT activity during orientation or alerting/escape responses, which dis-facilitates ongoing tonic motor activity while dis-inhibiting sensory information processing throughout the visual system. The new data provide a fresh view of these evolutionarily old retinal ganglion cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gary E Pickard
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Nebraska, Lincoln, NE, 68583, United States; Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198, United States; GHM Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Kwok-Fai So
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong, China; Department of Ophthalmology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; GHM Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China; State Key Laboratory for Brain and Cognitive Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.
| | - Mingliang Pu
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China; Key Laboratory on Machine Perception (Ministry of Education), Peking University, Beijing, China; Key Laboratory for Visual Impairment and Restoration (Ministry of Education), Peking University, Beijing, China.
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Procyk CA, Eleftheriou CG, Storchi R, Allen AE, Milosavljevic N, Brown TM, Lucas RJ. Spatial receptive fields in the retina and dorsal lateral geniculate nucleus of mice lacking rods and cones. J Neurophysiol 2015; 114:1321-30. [PMID: 26084909 PMCID: PMC4725120 DOI: 10.1152/jn.00368.2015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2015] [Accepted: 06/12/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
In advanced retinal degeneration loss of rods and cones leaves melanopsin-expressing intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs) as the only source of visual information. ipRGCs drive non-image-forming responses (e.g., circadian photoentrainment) under such conditions but, despite projecting to the primary visual thalamus [dorsal lateral geniculate nucleus (dLGN)], do not support form vision. We wished to determine what precludes ipRGCs supporting spatial discrimination after photoreceptor loss, using a mouse model (rd/rd cl) lacking rods and cones. Using multielectrode arrays, we found that both RGCs and neurons in the dLGN of this animal have clearly delineated spatial receptive fields. In the retina, they are typically symmetrical, lack inhibitory surrounds, and have diameters in the range of 10-30° of visual space. Receptive fields in the dLGN were larger (diameters typically 30-70°) but matched the retinotopic map of the mouse dLGN. Injections of a neuroanatomical tracer (cholera toxin β-subunit) into the dLGN confirmed that retinotopic order of ganglion cell projections to the dLGN and thalamic projections to the cortex is at least superficially intact in rd/rd cl mice. However, as previously reported for deafferented ipRGCs, onset and offset of light responses have long latencies in the rd/rd cl retina and dLGN. Accordingly, dLGN neurons failed to track dynamic changes in light intensity in this animal. Our data reveal that ipRGCs can convey spatial information in advanced retinal degeneration and identify their poor temporal fidelity as the major limitation in their ability to provide information about spatial patterns under natural viewing conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Cyril G Eleftheriou
- Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Riccardo Storchi
- Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Annette E Allen
- Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Nina Milosavljevic
- Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Timothy M Brown
- Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Robert J Lucas
- Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Vidal-Sanz M, Valiente-Soriano FJ, Ortín-Martínez A, Nadal-Nicolás FM, Jiménez-López M, Salinas-Navarro M, Alarcón-Martínez L, García-Ayuso D, Avilés-Trigueros M, Agudo-Barriuso M, Villegas-Pérez MP. Retinal neurodegeneration in experimental glaucoma. PROGRESS IN BRAIN RESEARCH 2015; 220:1-35. [PMID: 26497783 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pbr.2015.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
In rats and mice, limbar tissues of the left eye were laser-photocoagulated (LP) and ocular hypertension (OHT) effects were investigated 1 week to 6 months later. To investigate the innermost layers, retinas were examined in wholemounts using tracing from the superior colliculi to identify retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) with intact retrograde axonal transport, melanopsin immunodetection to identify intrinsically photosensitive RGCs (m(+)RGC), Brn3a immunodetection to identify most RGCs but not m(+)RGCs, RECA1 immunodetection to examine the inner retinal vessels, and DAPI staining to detect all nuclei in the GC layer. The outer retinal layers (ORLs) were examined in cross sections analyzed morphometrically or in wholemounts to study S- and L-cones. Innervation of the superior colliculi was examined 10 days to 14 weeks after LP with orthogradely transported cholera toxin subunit B. By 2 weeks, OHT resulted in pie-shaped sectors devoid of FG(+)RGCs or Brn3a(+)RGCs but with large numbers of DAPI(+)nuclei. Brn3a(+)RGCs were significantly greater than FG(+)RGCs, indicating the survival of large numbers of RGCs with their axonal transport impaired. The inner retinal vasculature showed no abnormalities that could account for the sectorial loss of RGCs. m(+)RGCs decreased to approximately 50-51% in a diffuse loss across the retina. Cross sections showed focal areas of degeneration in the ORLs. RGC loss at 1m diminished to 20-25% and did not progress further with time, whereas the S- and L-cone populations diminished progressively up to 6m. The retinotectal projection was reduced by 10 days and did not progress further. LP-induced OHT results in retrograde degeneration of RGCs and m(+)RGCs, severe damage to the ORL, and loss of retinotectal terminals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Vidal-Sanz
- Departamento de Oftalmología, Universidad de Murcia and Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria Virgen de la Arrixaca (IMIB-Arrixaca), Murcia, Spain.
| | - Francisco J Valiente-Soriano
- Departamento de Oftalmología, Universidad de Murcia and Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria Virgen de la Arrixaca (IMIB-Arrixaca), Murcia, Spain
| | - Arturo Ortín-Martínez
- Departamento de Oftalmología, Universidad de Murcia and Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria Virgen de la Arrixaca (IMIB-Arrixaca), Murcia, Spain
| | - Francisco M Nadal-Nicolás
- Departamento de Oftalmología, Universidad de Murcia and Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria Virgen de la Arrixaca (IMIB-Arrixaca), Murcia, Spain
| | - Manuel Jiménez-López
- Departamento de Oftalmología, Universidad de Murcia and Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria Virgen de la Arrixaca (IMIB-Arrixaca), Murcia, Spain
| | - Manuel Salinas-Navarro
- Departamento de Oftalmología, Universidad de Murcia and Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria Virgen de la Arrixaca (IMIB-Arrixaca), Murcia, Spain
| | - Luis Alarcón-Martínez
- Departamento de Oftalmología, Universidad de Murcia and Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria Virgen de la Arrixaca (IMIB-Arrixaca), Murcia, Spain
| | - Diego García-Ayuso
- Departamento de Oftalmología, Universidad de Murcia and Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria Virgen de la Arrixaca (IMIB-Arrixaca), Murcia, Spain
| | - Marcelino Avilés-Trigueros
- Departamento de Oftalmología, Universidad de Murcia and Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria Virgen de la Arrixaca (IMIB-Arrixaca), Murcia, Spain
| | - Marta Agudo-Barriuso
- Departamento de Oftalmología, Universidad de Murcia and Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria Virgen de la Arrixaca (IMIB-Arrixaca), Murcia, Spain
| | - Maria P Villegas-Pérez
- Departamento de Oftalmología, Universidad de Murcia and Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria Virgen de la Arrixaca (IMIB-Arrixaca), Murcia, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Renna JM, Chellappa DK, Ross CL, Stabio ME, Berson DM. Melanopsin ganglion cells extend dendrites into the outer retina during early postnatal development. Dev Neurobiol 2015; 75:935-46. [PMID: 25534911 DOI: 10.1002/dneu.22260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2014] [Revised: 11/14/2014] [Accepted: 12/17/2014] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Melanopsin ganglion cells express the photopigment melanopsin and are the first functional photoreceptors to develop in the mammalian retina. They have been shown to play a variety of important roles in visual development and behavior in the early postnatal period (Johnson et al., 2010; Kirkby and Feller, 2013; Rao et al., 2013; Renna et al., 2011). Here, we probed the maturation of the dendritic arbors of melanopsin ganglion cells during this developmental period in mice. We found that some melanopsin ganglion cells (mainly the M1-subtype) transiently extend their dendrites not only into the inner plexiform layer (where they receive synaptic inputs from bipolar and amacrine cells) but also into the outer plexiform layer, where in mature retina, rod and cone photoreceptors are thought to contact only bipolar and horizontal cells. Thus, some immature melanopsin ganglion cells are biplexiform. This feature is much less common although still present in the mature retina. It reaches peak incidence 8-12 days after birth, before the eyes open and bipolar cells are sufficiently mature to link rods and cones to ganglion cells. At this age, some outer dendrites of melanopsin ganglion cells lie in close apposition to the axon terminals of cone photoreceptors and express a postsynaptic marker of glutamatergic transmission, postsynaptic density-95 protein (PSD-95). These findings raise the possibility of direct, monosynaptic connections between cones and melanopsin ganglion cells in the early postnatal retina. We provide a detailed description of the developmental profile of these processes and consider their possible functional and evolutionary significance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jordan M Renna
- Department of Biology, University of Akron, 185 E. Mill St., Akron, Ohio, 44325-3908
| | - Deepa K Chellappa
- Department of Neuroscience, Brown University, 185 Meeting Street, Providence, Rhode Island, 02912
| | - Christopher L Ross
- Department of Biology, University of Akron, 185 E. Mill St., Akron, Ohio, 44325-3908
| | - Maureen E Stabio
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, 12801 E. 17th Ave, RC1 South 12120, Aurora, Colorado, 80045
| | - David M Berson
- Department of Neuroscience, Brown University, 185 Meeting Street, Providence, Rhode Island, 02912
| |
Collapse
|