A quantitative analysis of L-glutamate-regulated Na+ dynamics in mouse cortical astrocytes: implications for cellular bioenergetics

Sodium homeostasis and signalling: The core and the hub of astrocyte function

Neuronal activity and neurochemical stimulation trigger spatio-temporal changes in the cytoplasmic concentration of Na+ ions in astrocytes. These changes constitute the substrate for Na+ signalling and are fundamental for astrocytic excitability. Astrocytic Na+ signals are generated by Na+ influx through neurotransmitter transporters, with primary contribution of glutamate transporters, and through cationic channels; whereas recovery from Na+ transients is mediated mainly by the plasmalemmal Na+/K+ ATPase. Astrocytic Na+ signals regulate the activity of plasmalemmal transporters critical for homeostatic function of astrocytes, thus providing real-time coordination between neuronal activity and astrocytic support.

Linking atypical depression and insulin resistance-related disorders via low-grade chronic inflammation: Integrating the phenotypic, molecular and neuroanatomical dimensions

Insulin resistance (IR) and related disorders, such as T2DM, increase the risk of major depressive disorder (MDD) and vice versa. Current evidence indicates that psychological stress and overeating can induce chronic low-grade inflammation that can interfere with glutamate metabolism in MDD as well as insulin signaling, particularly in the atypical subtype. Here we first review the interactive role of inflammatory processes in the development of MDD, IR and related metabolic disorders. Next, we describe the role of the anterior cingulate cortex in the pathophysiology of MDD and IR-related disorders. Furthermore, we outline how specific clinical features of atypical depression, such as hyperphagia, are more associated with inflammation and IR-related disorders. Finally, we examine the regional specificity of the effects of inflammation on the brain that show an overlap with the functional and morphometric brain patterns activated in MDD and IR-related disorders.

Astrocyte Mitochondria in White-Matter Injury

This review summarizes the diverse structure and function of astrocytes to describe the bioenergetic versatility required of astrocytes that are situated at different locations. The intercellular domain of astrocyte mitochondria defines their roles in supporting and regulating astrocyte-neuron coupling and survival against ischemia. The heterogeneity of astrocyte mitochondria, and how subpopulations of astrocyte mitochondria adapt to interact with other glia and regulate axon function, require further investigation. It has become clear that mitochondrial permeability transition pores play a key role in a wide variety of human diseases, whose common pathology may be based on mitochondrial dysfunction triggered by Ca²⁺ and potentiated by oxidative stress. Reactive oxygen species cause axonal degeneration and a reduction in axonal transport, leading to axonal dystrophies and neurodegeneration including Alzheimer's disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, and Huntington's disease. Developing new tools to allow better investigation of mitochondrial structure and function in astrocytes, and techniques to specifically target astrocyte mitochondria, can help to unravel the role of mitochondrial health and dysfunction in a more inclusive context outside of neuronal cells. Overall, this review will assess the value of astrocyte mitochondria as a therapeutic target to mitigate acute and chronic injury in the CNS.

Sodium Fluctuations in Astroglia and Their Potential Impact on Astrocyte Function

Astrocytes are the main cell type responsible for the regulation of brain homeostasis, including the maintenance of ion gradients and neurotransmitter clearance. These processes are tightly coupled to changes in the intracellular sodium (Na⁺) concentration. While activation of the sodium-potassium-ATPase (NKA) in response to an elevation of extracellular K⁺ may decrease intracellular Na⁺, the cotransport of transmitters, such as glutamate, together with Na⁺ results in an increase in astrocytic Na⁺. This increase in intracellular Na⁺ can modulate, for instance, metabolic downstream pathways. Thereby, astrocytes are capable to react on a fast time scale to surrounding neuronal activity via intracellular Na⁺ fluctuations and adjust energy production to the demand of their environment. Beside the well-documented conventional roles of Na⁺ signaling mainly mediated through changes in its electrochemical gradient, several recent studies have identified more atypical roles for Na⁺, including protein interactions leading to changes in their biochemical activity or Na⁺-dependent regulation of gene expression. In this review, we will address both the conventional as well as the atypical functions of astrocytic Na⁺ signaling, presenting the role of transporters and channels involved and their implications for physiological processes in the central nervous system (CNS). We will also discuss how these important functions are affected under pathological conditions, including stroke and migraine. We postulate that Na⁺ is an essential player not only in the maintenance of homeostatic processes but also as a messenger for the fast communication between neurons and astrocytes, adjusting the functional properties of various cellular interaction partners to the needs of the surrounding network.

Quantitative Imaging of Changes in Astrocytic and Neuronal Adenosine Triphosphate Using Two Different Variants of ATeam

Genetically encoded nanosensors such as the FRET-based adenosine triphosphate (ATP) sensor ATeam enable the measurement of changes in ATP levels inside cells, promoting our understanding of metabolic interactions between astrocytes and neurons. The sensors are usually well characterized in vitro but display altered properties when expressed inside cells, precluding a meaningful conversion of changes in FRET ratios into changes in intracellular ATP concentrations ([ATP]) on the basis of their in vitro properties. Here, we present an experimental strategy for the intracellular calibration of two different variants of ATeam in organotypic tissue slice culture of the mouse brain. After cell-type-specific expression of the sensors in astrocytes or neurons, slices were first perfused with a saline containing the saponin β-escin to permeabilize plasma membranes for ATP. Next, cells were depleted of ATP by perfusion with ATP-free saline containing metabolic inhibitors. Finally, ATP was re-added at defined concentrations and resulting changes in the FRET ratio recorded. When employing this protocol, ATeam1.03 expressed in astrocytes reliably responds to changes in [ATP], exhibiting an apparent K_D of 9.4 mM. The high-affinity sensor ATeam1.03^YEMK displayed a significantly lower intracellular K_D of 2.7 mM. On the basis of these calibrations, we found that induction of a recurrent neuronal network activity resulted in an initial transient increase in astrocytic [ATP] by ~0.12 mM as detected by ATeam1.03^YEMK, a result confirmed using ATeam1.03. In neurons, in contrast, [ATP] immediately started to decline upon initiation of a network activity, amounting to a decrease by an average of 0.29 mM after 2 min. Taken together, our results demonstrate that ATeam1.03^YEMK and ATeam1.03 display a significant increase in their apparent K_D when expressed inside cells as compared with in vitro. Moreover, they show that both ATeam variants enable the quantitative detection of changes of astrocytic and neuronal [ATP] in the physiological range. ATeam1.03^YEMK, however, seems preferable because its K_D is close to baseline ATP levels. Finally, our data support the idea that synchronized neuronal activity initially stimulates the generation of ATP in astrocytes, presumably through increased glycolysis, whereas ATP levels in neurons decline.

Sodium homeostasis in the tumour microenvironment

The concentration of sodium ions (Na+) is raised in solid tumours and can be measured at the cellular, tissue and patient levels. At the cellular level, the Na+ gradient across the membrane powers the transport of H+ ions and essential nutrients for normal activity. The maintenance of the Na+ gradient requires a large proportion of the cell's ATP. Na+ is a major contributor to the osmolarity of the tumour microenvironment, which affects cell volume and metabolism as well as immune function. Here, we review evidence indicating that Na+ handling is altered in tumours, explore our current understanding of the mechanisms that may underlie these alterations and consider the potential consequences for cancer progression. Dysregulated Na+ balance in tumours may open opportunities for new imaging biomarkers and re-purposing of drugs for treatment.

Ventral tegmental area astrocytes orchestrate avoidance and approach behavior

The ventral tegmental area (VTA) is a heterogeneous midbrain structure, containing neurons and astrocytes, that coordinates behaviors by integrating activity from numerous afferents. Within neuron-astrocyte networks, astrocytes control signals from distinct afferents in a circuit-specific manner, but whether this capacity scales up to drive motivated behavior has been undetermined. Using genetic and optical dissection strategies we report that VTA astrocytes tune glutamatergic signaling selectively on local inhibitory neurons to drive a functional circuit for learned avoidance. In this circuit, astrocytes facilitate excitation of VTA GABA neurons to increase inhibition of dopamine neurons, eliciting real-time and learned avoidance behavior that is sufficient to impede expression of preference for reward. Loss of one glutamate transporter (GLT-1) from VTA astrocytes selectively blocks these avoidance behaviors and spares preference for reward. Thus, VTA astrocytes selectively regulate excitation of local GABA neurons to drive a distinct avoidance circuit that opposes approach behavior.

Astrocytes can dynamically control glutamate availability at specific active synapses through the glutamate transporter, GLT-1. Here, the authors show that astrocytes in the VTA selectively facilitate excitation of VTA GABAergic neurons to inhibit dopamine neurons and drive avoidance behavior via GLT-1.

Measurement of lactate levels in postmortem brain, iPSCs, and animal models of schizophrenia

Converging evidence suggests bioenergetic defects contribute to the pathophysiology of schizophrenia and may underlie cognitive dysfunction. The transport and metabolism of lactate energetically couples astrocytes and neurons and supports brain bioenergetics. We examined the concentration of lactate in postmortem brain (dorsolateral prefrontal cortex) in subjects with schizophrenia, in two animal models of schizophrenia, the GluN1 knockdown mouse model and mutant disrupted in schizophrenia 1 (DISC1) mouse model, as well as inducible pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) from a schizophrenia subject with the DISC1 mutation. We found increased lactate in the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (p = 0.043, n = 16/group) in schizophrenia, as well as in frontal cortical neurons differentiated from a subject with schizophrenia with the DISC1 mutation (p = 0.032). We also found a decrease in lactate in mice with induced expression of mutant human DISC1 specifically in astrocytes (p = 0.049). These results build upon the body of evidence supporting bioenergetic dysfunction in schizophrenia, and suggests changes in lactate are a key feature of this often devastating severe mental illness.

Ionic signalling in astroglia beyond calcium

Astrocytes are homeostatic and protective cells of the central nervous system. Astroglial homeostatic responses are tightly coordinated with neuronal activity. Astrocytes maintain neuronal excitability through regulation of extracellular ion concentrations, as well as assisting and modulating synaptic transmission by uptake and catabolism of major neurotransmitters. Moreover, they support neuronal metabolism and detoxify ammonium and reactive oxygen species. Astroglial homeostatic actions are initiated and controlled by intercellular signalling of ions, including Ca²⁺ , Na⁺ , Cl^- , H⁺ and possibly K⁺ . This review summarises current knowledge on ionic signals mediated by the major monovalent ions, which occur in microdomains, as global events, or as propagating intercellular waves and thereby represent the substrate for astroglial excitability.

Astrocytes Maintain Glutamate Homeostasis in the CNS by Controlling the Balance between Glutamate Uptake and Release

Glutamate is one of the most prevalent neurotransmitters released by excitatory neurons in the central nervous system (CNS); however, residual glutamate in the extracellular space is, potentially, neurotoxic. It is now well-established that one of the fundamental functions of astrocytes is to uptake most of the synaptically-released glutamate, which optimizes neuronal functions and prevents glutamate excitotoxicity. In the CNS, glutamate clearance is mediated by glutamate uptake transporters expressed, principally, by astrocytes. Interestingly, recent studies demonstrate that extracellular glutamate stimulates Ca²⁺ release from the astrocytes’ intracellular stores, which triggers glutamate release from astrocytes to the adjacent neurons, mostly by an exocytotic mechanism. This released glutamate is believed to coordinate neuronal firing and mediate their excitatory or inhibitory activity. Therefore, astrocytes contribute to glutamate homeostasis in the CNS, by maintaining the balance between their opposing functions of glutamate uptake and release. This dual function of astrocytes represents a potential therapeutic target for CNS diseases associated with glutamate excitotoxicity. In this regard, we summarize the molecular mechanisms of glutamate uptake and release, their regulation, and the significance of both processes in the CNS. Also, we review the main features of glutamate metabolism and glutamate excitotoxicity and its implication in CNS diseases.

Cytosolic sodium regulation in mouse cortical astrocytes and its dependence on potassium and bicarbonate

Sodium plays a major role in different astrocytic functions, including maintenance of ion homeostasis and uptake of neurotransmitters and metabolites, which are mediated by different Na⁺ -coupled transporters. In the current study, the role of an electrogenic sodium-bicarbonate cotransporter (NBCe1), a sodium-potassium-chloride transporter 1 (NKCC1) and sodium-potassium ATPase (Na⁺ -K⁺ -ATPase) for the maintenance of [Na⁺ ]_i was investigated in cultured astrocytes of wild-type (WT) and of NBCe1-deficient (NBCe1-KO) mice using the Na⁺ -sensitive dye, asante sodium green-2. Our results suggest that cytosolic Na⁺ was higher in the presence of CO₂ /HCO₃ ^- (15 mM) than CO₂ /HCO₃ ^- -free, HEPES-buffered solution in WT, but not in NBCe1-KO astrocytes (12 mM). Surprisingly, there was a strong dependence of cytosolic [Na⁺ ] on the extracellular [HCO₃ ^- ] attributable to NBCe1 activity. Pharmacological blockage of NKCC1 with bumetanide led to a robust drop in cytosolic Na⁺ in both WT and NBCe1-KO astrocytes by up to 6 mM. There was a strong dependence of the cytosolic [Na⁺ ] on the extracellular [K⁺ ]. Inhibition of the Na⁺ -K⁺ -ATPase led to larger increase in cytosolic Na⁺ , both in the absence of K⁺ as compared with the presence of ouabain and in NBCe1-KO astrocytes as compared with WT astrocytes. Our results show that cytosolic Na⁺ in mouse cortical astrocytes can vary considerably and depends greatly on the concentrations of HCO₃ ^- and K⁺ , attributable to the activity of the Na⁺ -K⁺ -ATPase, of NBCe1 and NKCC1.

Extracellular Potassium and Glutamate Interact To Modulate Mitochondria in Astrocytes

Astrocytes clear glutamate and potassium, both of which are released into the extracellular space during neuronal activity. These processes are intimately linked with energy metabolism. Whereas astrocyte glutamate uptake causes cytosolic and mitochondrial acidification, extracellular potassium induces bicarbonate-dependent cellular alkalinization. This study aimed at quantifying the combined impact of glutamate and extracellular potassium on mitochondrial parameters of primary cultured astrocytes. Glutamate in 3 mM potassium caused a stronger acidification of mitochondria compared to cytosol. 15 mM potassium caused alkalinization that was stronger in the cytosol than in mitochondria. While the combined application of 15 mM potassium and glutamate led to a marked cytosolic alkalinization, pH only marginally increased in mitochondria. Thus, potassium and glutamate effects cannot be arithmetically summed, which also applies to their effects on mitochondrial potential and respiration. The data implies that, because of the nonlinear interaction between the effects of potassium and glutamate, astrocytic energy metabolism will be differentially regulated.

Medium chain triglyceride diet reduces anxiety-like behaviors and enhances social competitiveness in rats

Medium-chain triglycerides (MCT) are emerging as unique dietary supplements that are potentially relevant for the amelioration of brain dysfunctions. MCT are converted into ketones and free medium chain fatty acids that, in the brain, are highly effective energy sources to mitochondria and potentially less harmful than glucose metabolism to neurons. Given the recently established link between mitochondrial dysfunction and high anxiety and depression, we performed this study to investigate the effectiveness of an MCT-enriched diet to ameliorate anxiety- and depression-related behaviors in rats. Male rats were distributed into groups, according to their anxiety-like behaviors in the elevated plus maze. Each group was given either MCT-supplemented diet or an isocaloric control diet for fifteen days. Starting from the eighth day of diet, rats were exposed to different behavioral tests. MCT-fed rats exhibited reduced anxiety-like behaviors and enhanced social competitiveness, while their coping responses in the forced swim test were not affected by the treatment. When evaluated at the end of the two-week MCT diet, mitochondrial respiration was reduced in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) while unchanged in the nucleus accumbens. In the mPFC, enzymes related to glycolysis and oxidative phosphorylation were also decreased by MCT diet, while proteins controlling glucose and glutamate transport were increased. Altogether, our findings strongly suggest the effectiveness of MCT diet to exert anxiolytic effects. In the brain, our results point to the mPFC as a brain region in which MCT supplementation improves transport and control of energy substrates.

Defects in Bioenergetic Coupling in Schizophrenia

Synaptic neurotransmission relies on maintenance of the synapse and meeting the energy demands of neurons. Defects in excitatory and inhibitory synapses have been implicated in schizophrenia, likely contributing to positive and negative symptoms as well as impaired cognition. Recently, accumulating evidence has suggested that bioenergetic systems, important in both synaptic function and cognition, are abnormal in psychiatric illnesses such as schizophrenia. Animal models of synaptic dysfunction demonstrated endophenotypes of schizophrenia as well as bioenergetic abnormalities. We report findings on the bioenergetic interplay of astrocytes and neurons and discuss how dysregulation of these pathways may contribute to the pathogenesis of schizophrenia, highlighting metabolic systems as important therapeutic targets.

A computational study of astrocytic glutamate influence on post-synaptic neuronal excitability

The ability of astrocytes to rapidly clear synaptic glutamate and purposefully release the excitatory transmitter is critical in the functioning of synapses and neuronal circuits. Dysfunctions of these homeostatic functions have been implicated in the pathology of brain disorders such as mesial temporal lobe epilepsy. However, the reasons for these dysfunctions are not clear from experimental data and computational models have been developed to provide further understanding of the implications of glutamate clearance from the extracellular space, as a result of EAAT2 downregulation: although they only partially account for the glutamate clearance process. In this work, we develop an explicit model of the astrocytic glutamate transporters, providing a more complete description of the glutamate chemical potential across the astrocytic membrane and its contribution to glutamate transporter driving force based on thermodynamic principles and experimental data. Analysis of our model demonstrates that increased astrocytic glutamate content due to glutamine synthetase downregulation also results in increased postsynaptic quantal size due to gliotransmission. Moreover, the proposed model demonstrates that increased astrocytic glutamate could prolong the time course of glutamate in the synaptic cleft and enhances astrocyte-induced slow inward currents, causing a disruption to the clarity of synaptic signalling and the occurrence of intervals of higher frequency postsynaptic firing. Overall, our work distilled the necessity of a low astrocytic glutamate concentration for reliable synaptic transmission of information and the possible implications of enhanced glutamate levels as in epilepsy.

The role of astrocytes in the excitability and hyperexcitability of neurons is a subject which has gained a lot of attention, particularly in the pathology of neurological disorders including epilepsy. Although not completely understood, the control of glutamate homeostasis is believed to play a role in paroxysmal neuronal hyperexcitability known to precede seizure activity. We have developed a computational model which explores two of the astrocytic homeostatic mechanisms, namely glutamate clearance and gliotransmission, and connect them with a common controlling factor, astrocytic cytoplasmic glutamate concentration. In our model simulations we demonstrate both a slower clearance rate of synaptic glutamate and enhanced astrocytic glutamate release where cytoplasmic glutamate is elevated, both of which contribute to high frequency neuronal firing and conditions for seizure generation. We also describe a viable role for astrocytes as a “high pass” filter, where astrocytic activation in the form of intracellular calcium oscillations is possible for only a certain range of presynaptic neuronal firing rates, the lower bound of the range being reduced where astrocytic glutamate is elevated. In physiological terms this perhaps indicates not only neuronal but also astrocytic glutamate-mediated excitation in the neural-astrocytic network.

Control of Glutamate Transport by Extracellular Potassium: Basis for a Negative Feedback on Synaptic Transmission

Glutamate and K+, both released during neuronal firing, need to be tightly regulated to ensure accurate synaptic transmission. Extracellular glutamate and K+ ([K+]o) are rapidly taken up by glutamate transporters and K+-transporters or channels, respectively. Glutamate transport includes the exchange of one glutamate, 3 Na+, and one proton, in exchange for one K+. This K+ efflux allows the glutamate binding site to reorient in the outwardly facing position and start a new transport cycle. Here, we demonstrate the sensitivity of the transport process to [K+]o changes. Increasing [K+]o over the physiological range had an immediate and reversible inhibitory action on glutamate transporters. This K+-dependent transporter inhibition was revealed using microspectrofluorimetry in primary astrocytes, and whole-cell patch-clamp in acute brain slices and HEK293 cells expressing glutamate transporters. Previous studies demonstrated that pharmacological inhibition of glutamate transporters decreases neuronal transmission via extrasynaptic glutamate spillover and subsequent activation of metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluRs). Here, we demonstrate that increasing [K+]o also causes a decrease in neuronal mEPSC frequency, which is prevented by group II mGluR inhibition. These findings highlight a novel, previously unreported physiological negative feedback mechanism in which [K+]o elevations inhibit glutamate transporters, unveiling a new mechanism for activity-dependent modulation of synaptic activity.

A mathematical model of recurrent spreading depolarizations

A detailed biophysical model for a neuron/astrocyte network is developed in order to explore mechanisms responsible for the initiation and propagation of recurrent cortical spreading depolarizations. The model incorporates biophysical processes not considered in the earlier models. This includes a model for the Na⁺-glutamate transporter, which allows for a detailed description of reverse glutamate uptake. In particular, we consider the specific roles of elevated extracellular glutamate and K⁺ in the initiation, propagation and recurrence of spreading depolarizations.

Inhibition of the Mitochondrial Glutamate Carrier SLC25A22 in Astrocytes Leads to Intracellular Glutamate Accumulation

The solute carrier family 25 (SLC25) drives the import of a large diversity of metabolites into mitochondria, a key cellular structure involved in many metabolic functions. Mutations of the mitochondrial glutamate carrier SLC25A22 (also named GC1) have been identified in early epileptic encephalopathy (EEE) and migrating partial seizures in infancy (MPSI) but the pathophysiological mechanism of GC1 deficiency is still unknown, hampered by the absence of an in vivo model. This carrier is mainly expressed in astrocytes and is the principal gate for glutamate entry into mitochondria. A sufficient supply of energy is essential for the proper function of the brain and mitochondria have a pivotal role in maintaining energy homeostasis. In this work, we wanted to study the consequences of GC1 absence in an in vitro model in order to understand if glutamate catabolism and/or mitochondrial function could be affected. First, short hairpin RNA (shRNA) designed to specifically silence GC1 were validated in rat C6 glioma cells. Silencing GC1 in C6 resulted in a reduction of the GC1 mRNA combined with a decrease of the mitochondrial glutamate carrier activity. Then, primary astrocyte cultures were prepared and transfected with shRNA-GC1 or mismatch-RNA (mmRNA) constructs using the Neon® Transfection System in order to target a high number of primary astrocytes, more than 64%. Silencing GC1 in primary astrocytes resulted in a reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (Phosphate) (NAD(P)H) formation upon glutamate stimulation. We also observed that the mitochondrial respiratory chain (MRC) was functional after glucose stimulation but not activated by glutamate, resulting in a lower level of cellular adenosine triphosphate (ATP) in silenced astrocytes compared to control cells. Moreover, GC1 inactivation resulted in an intracellular glutamate accumulation. Our results show that mitochondrial glutamate transport via GC1 is important in sustaining glutamate homeostasis in astrocytes.

Main Points:

The mitochondrial respiratory chain is functional in absence of GC1

Lack of glutamate oxidation results in a lower global ATP level

Lack of mitochondrial glutamate transport results in intracellular glutamate accumulation

Local energy on demand: Are 'spontaneous' astrocytic Ca2+-microdomains the regulatory unit for astrocyte-neuron metabolic cooperation?

Astrocytes are a neural cell type critically involved in maintaining brain energy homeostasis as well as signaling. Like neurons, astrocytes are a heterogeneous cell population. Cortical astrocytes show a complex morphology with a highly branched aborization and numerous fine processes ensheathing the synapses of neighboring neurons, and typically extend one process connecting to blood vessels. Recent studies employing genetically encoded fluorescent calcium (Ca²⁺) indicators have described 'spontaneous' localized Ca²⁺-transients in the astrocyte periphery that occur asynchronously, independently of signals in other parts of the cells, and that do not involve somatic Ca²⁺ transients; however, neither it is known whether these Ca²⁺-microdomains occur at or near neuronal synapses nor have their molecular basis nor downstream effector(s) been identified. In addition to Ca²⁺ microdomains, sodium (Na⁺) transients occur in astrocyte subdomains, too, most likely as a consequence of Na⁺ co-transport with the neurotransmitter glutamate, which also regulates mitochondrial movements locally - as do cytoplasmic Ca²⁺ levels. In this review, we cover various aspects of these local signaling events and discuss how structural and biophysical properties of astrocytes might foster such compartmentation. Astrocytes metabolically interact with neurons by providing energy substrates to active neurons. As a single astrocyte branch covers hundreds to thousands of synapses, it is tempting to speculate that these metabolic interactions could occur localized to specific subdomains of astrocytes, perhaps even at the level of small groups of synapses. We discuss how astrocytic metabolism might be regulated at this scale and which signals might contribute to its regulation. We speculate that the astrocytic structures that light up transiently as Ca²⁺-microdomains might be the functional units of astrocytes linking signaling and metabolic processes to adapt astrocytic function to local energy demands. The understanding of these local regulatory and metabolic interactions will be fundamental to fully appreciate the complexity of brain energy homeostasis as well as its failure in disease and may shed new light on the controversy about neuron-glia bi-directional signaling at the tripartite synapse.

Astrocyte Sodium Signalling and Panglial Spread of Sodium Signals in Brain White Matter

In brain grey matter, excitatory synaptic transmission activates glutamate uptake into astrocytes, inducing sodium signals which propagate into neighboring astrocytes through gap junctions. These sodium signals have been suggested to serve an important role in neuro-metabolic coupling. So far, it is unknown if astrocytes in white matter-that is in brain regions devoid of synapses-are also able to undergo such intra- and intercellular sodium signalling. In the present study, we have addressed this question by performing quantitative sodium imaging in acute tissue slices of mouse corpus callosum. Focal application of glutamate induced sodium transients in SR101-positive astrocytes. These were largely unaltered in the presence of ionotropic glutamate receptors blockers, but strongly dampened upon pharmacological inhibition of glutamate uptake. Sodium signals induced in individual astrocytes readily spread into neighboring SR101-positive cells with peak amplitudes decaying monoexponentially with distance from the stimulated cell. In addition, spread of sodium was largely unaltered during pharmacological inhibition of purinergic and glutamate receptors, indicating gap junction-mediated, passive diffusion of sodium between astrocytes. Using cell-type-specific, transgenic reporter mice, we found that sodium signals also propagated, albeit less effectively, from astrocytes to neighboring oligodendrocytes and NG2 cells. Again, panglial spread was unaltered with purinergic and glutamate receptors blocked. Taken together, our results demonstrate that activation of sodium-dependent glutamate transporters induces sodium signals in white matter astrocytes, which spread within the astrocyte syncytium. In addition, we found a panglial passage of sodium signals from astrocytes to NG2 cells and oligodendrocytes, indicating functional coupling between these macroglial cells in white matter.

Activity-dependent modulation of intracellular ATP in cultured cortical astrocytes

Brain function is absolutely dependent on an appropriate supply of energy. A shortfall in supply-as occurs, for instance, following stroke-can lead rapidly to irreversible damage to this vital organ. While the consequences of pathophysiological energy depletion have been well documented, much less is known about the physiological energy dynamics of brain cells, although changes in the intracellular concentration of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the major energy carrier of cells, have been postulated to contribute to cellular signaling. To address this issue more closely, we have investigated intracellular ATP in cultured primary cortical astrocytes by time-lapse microscopy using a genetically encoded fluorescent sensor for ATP. The cytosolic ATP sensor signal decreased after application of the neurotransmitter glutamate in a manner dependent on both glutamate concentration and glutamate transporter activity, but independent of glutamate receptors. The application of dopamine did not affect ATP levels within astrocytes. These results confirm that intracellular ATP levels in astrocytes do indeed respond to changes in physiological activity and pave the way for further studies addressing factors that affect regulation of ATP. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Molecular and cellular physiology of sodium-dependent glutamate transporters

Glutamate is the major excitatory transmitter in the vertebrate brain. After its release from presynaptic nerve terminals, it is rapidly taken up by high-affinity sodium-dependent plasma membrane transporters. While both neurons and glial cells express these excitatory amino acid transporters (EAATs), the majority of glutamate uptake is accomplished by astrocytes, which convert synaptically-released glutamate to glutamine or feed it into their own metabolism. Glutamate uptake by astrocytes not only shapes synaptic transmission by regulating the availability of glutamate to postsynaptic neuronal receptors, but also protects neurons from hyper-excitability and subsequent excitotoxic damage. In the present review, we provide an overview of the molecular and cellular characteristics of sodium-dependent glutamate transporters and their associated anion permeation pathways, with a focus on astrocytic glutamate transport. We summarize their functional properties and roles within tripartite synapses under physiological and pathophysiological conditions, exemplifying the intricate interactions and interrelationships between neurons and glial cells in the brain.

The conversion of glutamate by glutamine synthase in neocortical astrocytes from juvenile rat is important to limit glutamate spillover and peri/extrasynaptic activation of NMDA receptors

Glutamate transporters (EAATs) are important to maintain spatial and temporal specificity of synaptic transmission. Their efficiency to uptake and transport glutamate into the intracellular space depends on several parameters including the intracellular concentrations of Na⁺ and glutamate, the elevations of which may slow down the cycling rate of EAATs. In astrocytes, glutamate is maintained at low concentration due to the presence of specific enzymes such as glutamine synthase (GS). GS inhibition results in cytosolic accumulation of glutamate suggesting that the conversion of glutamate by GS is important for EAATs operation. Here we recorded astrocytes from juvenile rat neocortical slices and analyzed the consequences of elevated intracellular glutamate concentrations and of GS inhibition on the time course of synaptically evoked transporter current (STC). In slices from rats treated with methionine sulfoximine (MSO), a GS inhibitor, STC evoked by short burst of high frequency stimulation (HFS; 100 Hz for 100 ms) but not by low frequency stimulation (LFS; 0.1 Hz) was twice slower than STC evoked from saline injected rats. Same results were obtained for astrocytes recorded with pipette containing 3-10 mM glutamate and compared with cells recorded with 0 or1 mM glutamate in the patch pipette. We also showed that HFS elicited significantly larger NMDAR-excitatory postsynaptic currents (EPSCs) with a stronger peri/extrasynaptic component in pyramidal cells from MSO-treated compared with saline treated rats. Taken together our data demonstrate that the conversion of glutamate by GS is fundamental to ensure an efficient clearance of glutamate by EAATs and to prevent glutamate spillover. GLIA 2017;65:401-415.

Rapid sodium signaling couples glutamate uptake to breakdown of ATP in perivascular astrocyte endfeet

Perivascular endfeet of astrocytes are highly polarized compartments that ensheath blood vessels and contribute to the blood-brain barrier. They experience calcium transients with neuronal activity, a phenomenon involved in neurovascular coupling. Endfeet also mediate the uptake of glucose from the blood, a process stimulated in active brain regions. Here, we demonstrate in mouse hippocampal tissue slices that endfeet undergo sodium signaling upon stimulation of glutamatergic synaptic activity. Glutamate-induced endfeet sodium transients were diminished by TFB-TBOA, suggesting that they were generated by sodium-dependent glutamate uptake. With local agonist application, they could be restricted to endfeet and immunohistochemical analysis revealed prominent expression of glutamate transporters GLAST and GLT-1 localized towards the neuropil vs. the vascular side of endfeet. Endfeet sodium signals spread at an apparent maximum velocity of ∼120 µm/s and directly propagated from stimulated into neighboring endfeet; this spread was omitted in Cx30/Cx43 double-deficient mice. Sodium transients resulted in elevation of intracellular magnesium, indicating a decrease in intracellular ATP. In summary, our results establish that excitatory synaptic activity and stimulation of glutamate uptake in astrocytes trigger transient sodium increases in perivascular endfeet which rapidly spread through gap junctions into neighboring endfeet and cause a reduction of intracellular ATP. The newly discovered endfeet sodium signaling thereby represents a fast, long-lived and inter-cellularly acting indicator of synaptic activity at the blood-brain barrier, which likely constitutes an important component of neuro-metabolic coupling in the brain. GLIA 2017;65:293-308.

Extrusion versus diffusion: mechanisms for recovery from sodium loads in mouse CA1 pyramidal neurons

KEY POINTS

Neuronal activity causes local or global sodium signalling in neurons, depending on the pattern of synaptic activity. Recovery from global sodium loads critically relies on Na(+) /K(+) -ATPase and an intact energy metabolism in both somata and dendrites. For recovery from local sodium loads in dendrites, Na(+) /K(+) -ATPase activity is not required per se. Instead, recovery is predominately mediated by lateral diffusion, exhibiting rates that are 10-fold higher than for global sodium signals. Recovery from local dendritic sodium increases is still efficient during short periods of energy deprivation, indicating that fast diffusion of sodium to non-stimulated regions strongly reduces local energy requirements.

ABSTRACT

Excitatory activity is accompanied by sodium influx into neurones as a result of the opening of voltage- and ligand-activated channels. Recovery from resulting sodium transients has mainly been attributed to Na(+) /K(+) -ATPase (NKA). Because sodium ions are highly mobile, diffusion could provide an additional pathway. We tested this in hippocampal neurones using whole-cell patch-clamp recordings and sodium imaging. Somatic sodium transients induced by local glutamate application recovered at a maximum rate of 8 mm min(-1) (∼0.03 mm min(-1 ) μm(-2) ). Somatic sodium extrusion was accelerated at higher temperature and blocked by ouabain, emphasizing its dependence on NKA. Moreover, it was slowed down during inhibition of glycolysis by sodium fluoride (NaF). Local glutamate application to dendrites revealed a 10-fold higher apparent dendritic sodium extrusion rate compared to somata. Recovery was almost unaltered by increased temperature, ouabain or NaF. We found that sodium diffused along primary dendrites with a diffusion coefficient of ∼330 μm²/s. During global glutamate application, impeding substantial net diffusion, apparent dendritic extrusion rates were reduced to somatic rates and also affected by NaF. Numerical simulations confirmed the essential role of NKA for the recovery of somatic, but not dendritic sodium loads. Our data show that sodium export upon global sodium increases is largely mediated by NKA and depends on an intact energy metabolism. For recovery from local dendritic sodium increases, diffusion dominates over extrusion, operating efficiently even during short periods of energy deprivation. Although sodium will eventually be extruded by the NKA, its diffusion-based fast dissemination to non-stimulated regions might reduce local energy requirements.

Monocarboxylate transporters in the brain and in cancer

Monocarboxylate transporters (MCTs) constitute a family of 14 members among which MCT1-4 facilitate the passive transport of monocarboxylates such as lactate, pyruvate and ketone bodies together with protons across cell membranes. Their anchorage and activity at the plasma membrane requires interaction with chaperon protein such as basigin/CD147 and embigin/gp70. MCT1-4 are expressed in different tissues where they play important roles in physiological and pathological processes. This review focuses on the brain and on cancer. In the brain, MCTs control the delivery of lactate, produced by astrocytes, to neurons, where it is used as an oxidative fuel. Consequently, MCT dysfunctions are associated with pathologies of the central nervous system encompassing neurodegeneration and cognitive defects, epilepsy and metabolic disorders. In tumors, MCTs control the exchange of lactate and other monocarboxylates between glycolytic and oxidative cancer cells, between stromal and cancer cells and between glycolytic cells and endothelial cells. Lactate is not only a metabolic waste for glycolytic cells and a metabolic fuel for oxidative cells, but it also behaves as a signaling agent that promotes angiogenesis and as an immunosuppressive metabolite. Because MCTs gate the activities of lactate, drugs targeting these transporters have been developed that could constitute new anticancer treatments. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Mitochondrial Channels edited by Pierre Sonveaux, Pierre Maechler and Jean-Claude Martinou.

Defective glutamate and K+ clearance by cortical astrocytes in familial hemiplegic migraine type 2

Migraine is a common disabling brain disorder. A subtype of migraine with aura (familial hemiplegic migraine type 2: FHM2) is caused by loss‐of‐function mutations in α₂ Na⁺,K⁺ATPase (α₂NKA), an isoform almost exclusively expressed in astrocytes in adult brain. Cortical spreading depression (CSD), the phenomenon that underlies migraine aura and activates migraine headache mechanisms, is facilitated in heterozygous FHM2‐knockin mice with reduced expression of α₂NKA. The mechanisms underlying an increased susceptibility to CSD in FHM2 are unknown. Here, we show reduced rates of glutamate and K⁺ clearance by cortical astrocytes during neuronal activity and reduced density of GLT‐1a glutamate transporters in cortical perisynaptic astrocytic processes in heterozygous FHM2‐knockin mice, demonstrating key physiological roles of α₂NKA and supporting tight coupling with GLT‐1a. Using ceftriaxone treatment of FHM2 mutants and partial inhibition of glutamate transporters in wild‐type mice, we obtain evidence that defective glutamate clearance can account for most of the facilitation of CSD initiation in FHM2‐knockin mice, pointing to excessive glutamatergic transmission as a key mechanism underlying the vulnerability to CSD ignition in migraine.

Glutamate transporter activity promotes enhanced Na+ /K+ -ATPase-mediated extracellular K+ management during neuronal activity

KEY POINTS

Management of glutamate and K⁺ in brain extracellular space is of critical importance to neuronal function. The astrocytic α2β2 Na⁺ /K⁺ -ATPase isoform combination is activated by the K⁺ transients occurring during neuronal activity. In the present study, we report that glutamate transporter-mediated astrocytic Na⁺ transients stimulate the Na⁺ /K⁺ -ATPase and thus the clearance of extracellular K⁺ . Specifically, the astrocytic α2β1 Na⁺ /K⁺ -ATPase subunit combination displays an apparent Na⁺ affinity primed to react to physiological changes in intracellular Na⁺ . Accordingly, we demonstrate a distinct physiological role in K⁺ management for each of the two astrocytic Na⁺ /K⁺ -ATPase β-subunits.

ABSTRACT

Neuronal activity is associated with transient [K⁺ ]_o increases. The excess K⁺ is cleared by surrounding astrocytes, partly by the Na⁺ /K⁺ -ATPase of which several subunit isoform combinations exist. The astrocytic Na⁺ /K⁺ -ATPase α2β2 isoform constellation responds directly to increased [K⁺ ]_o but, in addition, Na⁺ /K⁺ -ATPase-mediated K⁺ clearance could be governed by astrocytic [Na⁺ ]_i . During most neuronal activity, glutamate is released in the synaptic cleft and is re-absorbed by astrocytic Na⁺ -coupled glutamate transporters, thereby elevating [Na⁺ ]_i . It thus remains unresolved whether the different Na⁺ /K⁺ -ATPase isoforms are controlled by [K⁺ ]_o or [Na⁺ ]_i during neuronal activity. Hippocampal slice recordings of stimulus-induced [K⁺ ]_o transients with ion-sensitive microelectrodes revealed reduced Na⁺ /K⁺ -ATPase-mediated K⁺ management upon parallel inhibition of the glutamate transporter. The apparent intracellular Na⁺ affinity of isoform constellations involving the astrocytic β2 has remained elusive as a result of inherent expression of β1 in most cell systems, as well as technical challenges involved in measuring intracellular affinity in intact cells. We therefore expressed the different astrocytic isoform constellations in Xenopus oocytes and determined their apparent Na⁺ affinity in intact oocytes and isolated membranes. The Na⁺ /K⁺ -ATPase was not fully saturated at basal astrocytic [Na⁺ ]_i , irrespective of isoform constellation, although the β1 subunit conferred lower apparent Na⁺ affinity to the α1 and α2 isoforms than the β2 isoform. In summary, enhanced astrocytic Na⁺ /K⁺ -ATPase-dependent K⁺ clearance was obtained with parallel glutamate transport activity. The astrocytic Na⁺ /K⁺ -ATPase isoform constellation α2β1 appeared to be specifically geared to respond to the [Na⁺ ]_i transients associated with activity-induced glutamate transporter activity.

Metabolic Changes Following Perinatal Asphyxia: Role of Astrocytes and Their Interaction with Neurons

Perinatal Asphyxia (PA) represents an important cause of severe neurological deficits including delayed mental and motor development, epilepsy, major cognitive deficits and blindness. The interaction between neurons, astrocytes and endothelial cells plays a central role coupling energy supply with changes in neuronal activity. Traditionally, experimental research focused on neurons, whereas astrocytes have been more related to the damage mechanisms of PA. Astrocytes carry out a number of functions that are critical to normal nervous system function, including uptake of neurotransmitters, regulation of pH and ion concentrations, and metabolic support for neurons. In this work, we aim to review metabolic neuron-astrocyte interactions with the purpose of encourage further research in this area in the context of PA, which is highly complex and its mechanisms and pathways have not been fully elucidated to this day.

The Influence of Na(+), K(+)-ATPase on Glutamate Signaling in Neurodegenerative Diseases and Senescence

Decreased Na(+), K(+)-ATPase (NKA) activity causes energy deficiency, which is commonly observed in neurodegenerative diseases. The NKA is constituted of three subunits: α, β, and γ, with four distinct isoforms of the catalytic α subunit (α1-4). Genetic mutations in the ATP1A2 gene and ATP1A3 gene, encoding the α2 and α3 subunit isoforms, respectively can cause distinct neurological disorders, concurrent to impaired NKA activity. Within the central nervous system (CNS), the α2 isoform is expressed mostly in glial cells and the α3 isoform is neuron-specific. Mutations in ATP1A2 gene can result in familial hemiplegic migraine (FHM2), while mutations in the ATP1A3 gene can cause Rapid-onset dystonia-Parkinsonism (RDP) and alternating hemiplegia of childhood (AHC), as well as the cerebellar ataxia, areflexia, pescavus, optic atrophy and sensorineural hearing loss (CAPOS) syndrome. Data indicates that the central glutamatergic system is affected by mutations in the α2 isoform, however further investigations are required to establish a connection to mutations in the α3 isoform, especially given the diagnostic confusion and overlap with glutamate transporter disease. The age-related decline in brain α2∕3 activity may arise from changes in the cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) and cGMP-dependent protein kinase (PKG) pathway. Glutamate, through nitric oxide synthase (NOS), cGMP and PKG, stimulates brain α2∕3 activity, with the glutamatergic N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor cascade able to drive an adaptive, neuroprotective response to inflammatory and challenging stimuli, including amyloid-β. Here we review the NKA, both as an ion pump as well as a receptor that interacts with NMDA, including the role of NKA subunits mutations. Failure of the NKA-associated adaptive response mechanisms may render neurons more susceptible to degeneration over the course of aging.

Managing Brain Extracellular K(+) during Neuronal Activity: The Physiological Role of the Na(+)/K(+)-ATPase Subunit Isoforms

During neuronal activity in the brain, extracellular K⁺ rises and is subsequently removed to prevent a widespread depolarization. One of the key players in regulating extracellular K⁺ is the Na⁺/K⁺-ATPase, although the relative involvement and physiological impact of the different subunit isoform compositions of the Na⁺/K⁺-ATPase remain unresolved. The various cell types in the brain serve a certain temporal contribution in the face of network activity; astrocytes respond directly to the immediate release of K⁺ from neurons, whereas the neurons themselves become the primary K⁺ absorbers as activity ends. The kinetic characteristics of the catalytic α subunit isoforms of the Na⁺/K⁺-ATPase are, partly, determined by the accessory β subunit with which they combine. The isoform combinations expressed by astrocytes and neurons, respectively, appear to be in line with the kinetic characteristics required to fulfill their distinct physiological roles in clearance of K⁺ from the extracellular space in the face of neuronal activity. Understanding the nature, impact and effects of the various Na⁺/K⁺-ATPase isoform combinations in K⁺ management in the central nervous system might reveal insights into pathological conditions such as epilepsy, migraine, and spreading depolarization following cerebral ischemia. In addition, particular neurological diseases occur as a result of mutations in the α2- (familial hemiplegic migraine type 2) and α3 isoforms (rapid-onset dystonia parkinsonism/alternating hemiplegia of childhood). This review addresses aspects of the Na⁺/K⁺-ATPase in the regulation of extracellular K⁺ in the central nervous system as well as the related pathophysiology. Understanding the physiological setting in non-pathological tissue would provide a better understanding of the pathological events occurring during disease.

Sodium signaling and astrocyte energy metabolism

The Na(+) gradient across the plasma membrane is constantly exploited by astrocytes as a secondary energy source to regulate the intracellular and extracellular milieu, and discard waste products. One of the most prominent roles of astrocytes in the brain is the Na(+) -dependent clearance of glutamate released by neurons during synaptic transmission. The intracellular Na(+) load collectively generated by these processes converges at the Na,K-ATPase pump, responsible for Na(+) extrusion from the cell, which is achieved at the expense of cellular ATP. These processes represent pivotal mechanisms enabling astrocytes to increase the local availability of metabolic substrates in response to neuronal activity. This review presents basic principles linking the intracellular handling of Na(+) following activity-related transmembrane fluxes in astrocytes and the energy metabolic pathways involved. We propose a role of Na(+) as an energy currency and as a mediator of metabolic signals in the context of neuron-glia interactions. We further discuss the possible impact of the astrocytic syncytium for the distribution and coordination of the metabolic response, and the compartmentation of these processes in cellular microdomains and subcellular organelles. Finally, we illustrate future avenues of investigation into signaling mechanisms aimed at bridging the gap between Na(+) and the metabolic machinery. GLIA 2016;64:1667-1676.

Lactate rescues neuronal sodium homeostasis during impaired energy metabolism

Recently, we established that recurrent activity evokes network sodium oscillations in neurons and astrocytes in hippocampal tissue slices. Interestingly, metabolic integrity of astrocytes was essential for the neurons' capacity to maintain low sodium and to recover from sodium loads, indicating an intimate metabolic coupling between the 2 cell types. Here, we studied if lactate can support neuronal sodium homeostasis during impaired energy metabolism by analyzing whether glucose removal, pharmacological inhibition of glycolysis and/or addition of lactate affect cellular sodium regulation. Furthermore, we studied the effect of lactate on sodium regulation during recurrent network activity and upon inhibition of the glial Krebs cycle by sodium-fluoroacetate. Our results indicate that lactate is preferentially used by neurons. They demonstrate that lactate supports neuronal sodium homeostasis and rescues the effects of glial poisoning by sodium-fluoroacetate. Altogether, they are in line with the proposed transfer of lactate from astrocytes to neurons, the so-called astrocyte-neuron-lactate shuttle.

Astrocyte sodium signaling and neuro-metabolic coupling in the brain

At tripartite synapses, astrocytes undergo calcium signaling in response to release of neurotransmitters and this calcium signaling has been proposed to play a critical role in neuron-glia interaction. Recent work has now firmly established that, in addition, neuronal activity also evokes sodium transients in astrocytes, which can be local or global depending on the number of activated synapses and the duration of activity. Furthermore, astrocyte sodium signals can be transmitted to adjacent cells through gap junctions and following release of gliotransmitters. A main pathway for activity-related sodium influx into astrocytes is via high-affinity sodium-dependent glutamate transporters. Astrocyte sodium signals differ in many respects from the well-described glial calcium signals both in terms of their temporal as well as spatial distribution. There are no known buffering systems for sodium ions, nor is there store-mediated release of sodium. Sodium signals thus seem to represent rather direct and unbiased indicators of the site and strength of neuronal inputs. As such they have an immediate influence on the activity of sodium-dependent transporters which may even reverse in response to sodium signaling, as has been shown for GABA transporters for example. Furthermore, recovery from sodium transients through Na(+)/K(+)-ATPase requires a measurable amount of ATP, resulting in an activation of glial metabolism. In this review, we present basic principles of sodium regulation and the current state of knowledge concerning the occurrence and properties of activity-related sodium transients in astrocytes. We then discuss different aspects of the relationship between sodium changes in astrocytes and neuro-metabolic coupling, putting forward the idea that indeed sodium might serve as a new type of intracellular ion signal playing an important role in neuron-glia interaction and neuro-metabolic coupling in the healthy and diseased brain.

A novel optical intracellular imaging approach for potassium dynamics in astrocytes

Astrocytes fulfill a central role in regulating K⁺ and glutamate, both released by neurons into the extracellular space during activity. Glial glutamate uptake is a secondary active process that involves the influx of three Na⁺ ions and one proton and the efflux of one K⁺ ion. Thus, intracellular K⁺ concentration ([K⁺]_i) is potentially influenced both by extracellular K⁺ concentration ([K⁺]_o) fluctuations and glutamate transport in astrocytes. We evaluated the impact of these K⁺ ion movements on [K⁺]_i in primary mouse astrocytes by microspectrofluorimetry. We established a new noninvasive and reliable approach to monitor and quantify [K⁺]_i using the recently developed K⁺ sensitive fluorescent indicator Asante Potassium Green-1 (APG-1). An in situ calibration procedure enabled us to estimate the resting [K⁺]_i at 133±1 mM. We first investigated the dependency of [K⁺]_i levels on [K⁺]_o. We found that [K⁺]_i followed [K⁺]_o changes nearly proportionally in the range 3–10 mM, which is consistent with previously reported microelectrode measurements of intracellular K⁺ concentration changes in astrocytes. We then found that glutamate superfusion caused a reversible drop of [K⁺]_i that depended on the glutamate concentration with an apparent EC₅₀ of 11.1±1.4 µM, corresponding to the affinity of astrocyte glutamate transporters. The amplitude of the [K⁺]_i drop was found to be 2.3±0.1 mM for 200 µM glutamate applications. Overall, this study shows that the fluorescent K⁺ indicator APG-1 is a powerful new tool for addressing important questions regarding fine [K⁺]_i regulation with excellent spatial resolution.

Purinergic receptor stimulation decreases ischemic brain damage by energizing astrocyte mitochondria

As a leading cause of death in the world, cerebral ischemic stroke has limited treatment options. The lack of glucose and oxygen after stroke is particularly harmful in the brain because neuronal metabolism accounts for significantly more energy consumption per gram of body weight compared to other organs. Our laboratory has identified mitochondrial metabolism of astrocytes to be a key target for pharmacologic intervention, not only because astrocytes play a central role in regulating brain metabolism, but also because they are essential for neuronal health and support. Here we review current literature pertaining to the pathobiology of stroke, along with the role of astrocytes and metabolism in stroke. We also discuss our research, which has revealed that pharmacologic stimulation of metabotropic P2Y1 receptor signaling in astrocytes can increase mitochondrial energy production and also reduce damage after stroke.

Control of mitochondrial pH by uncoupling protein 4 in astrocytes promotes neuronal survival

Brain activity is energetically costly and requires a steady and highly regulated flow of energy equivalents between neural cells. It is believed that a substantial share of cerebral glucose, the major source of energy of the brain, will preferentially be metabolized in astrocytes via aerobic glycolysis. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether uncoupling proteins (UCPs), located in the inner membrane of mitochondria, play a role in setting up the metabolic response pattern of astrocytes. UCPs are believed to mediate the transmembrane transfer of protons, resulting in the uncoupling of oxidative phosphorylation from ATP production. UCPs are therefore potentially important regulators of energy fluxes. The main UCP isoforms expressed in the brain are UCP2, UCP4, and UCP5. We examined in particular the role of UCP4 in neuron-astrocyte metabolic coupling and measured a range of functional metabolic parameters including mitochondrial electrical potential and pH, reactive oxygen species production, NAD/NADH ratio, ATP/ADP ratio, CO2 and lactate production, and oxygen consumption rate. In brief, we found that UCP4 regulates the intramitochondrial pH of astrocytes, which acidifies as a consequence of glutamate uptake, with the main consequence of reducing efficiency of mitochondrial ATP production. The diminished ATP production is effectively compensated by enhancement of glycolysis. This nonoxidative production of energy is not associated with deleterious H2O2 production. We show that astrocytes expressing more UCP4 produced more lactate, which is used as an energy source by neurons, and had the ability to enhance neuronal survival.

A small molecule two-photon fluorescent probe for intracellular sodium ions

We report a small-molecule two-photon fluorescent probe (ANa2) for Na(+) that shows a strong TPEF enhancement in response to Na(+) and can be easily loaded into live cells and can real time monitor the fluctuation of [Na]i in live cells and living tissue at more than 100 μm depth.

Tandospirone, a 5-HT1A partial agonist, ameliorates aberrant lactate production in the prefrontal cortex of rats exposed to blockade of N-methy-D-aspartate receptors; Toward the therapeutics of cognitive impairment of schizophrenia

Rationale: Augmentation therapy with serotonin-1A (5-HT_1A) receptor partial agonists has been suggested to improve cognitive impairment in patients with schizophrenia. Decreased activity of prefrontal cortex may provide a basis for cognitive deficits of the disease. Lactate plays a significant role in the supply of energy to the brain, and glutamatergic neurotransmission contributes to lactate production.

Objectives and methods: The purposes of this study were to examine the effect of repeated administration (once a daily for 4 days) of tandospirone (0.05 or 5 mg/kg) on brain energy metabolism, as represented by extracellular lactate concentration (eLAC) in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) of a rat model of schizophrenia.

Results: Four-day treatment with MK-801, an NMDA-R antagonist, prolonged eLAC elevation induced by foot-shock stress (FS). Co-administration with the high-dose tandospirone suppressed prolonged FS-induced eLAC elevation in rats receiving MK-801, whereas tandospirone by itself did not affected eLAC increment.

Conclusions: These results suggest that stimulation of 5-HT_1A receptors ameliorates abnormalities of energy metabolism in the mPFC due to blockade of NMDA receptors. These findings provide a possible mechanism, based on brain energy metabolism, by which 5-HT_1A agonism improve cognitive impairment of schizophrenia and related disorders.

Role of Na,K-ATPase α1 and α2 isoforms in the support of astrocyte glutamate uptake

Glutamate released during neuronal activity is cleared from the synaptic space via the astrocytic glutamate/Na⁺ co-transporters. This transport is driven by the transmembrane Na⁺ gradient mediated by Na,K-ATPase. Astrocytes express two isoforms of the catalytic Na,K-ATPase α subunits; the ubiquitously expressed α1 subunit and the α2 subunit that has a more specific expression profile. In the brain α2 is predominantly expressed in astrocytes. The isoforms differ with regard to Na⁺ affinity, which is lower for α2. The relative roles of the α1 and α2 isoforms in astrocytes are not well understood. Here we present evidence that the presence of the α2 isoform may contribute to a more efficient restoration of glutamate triggered increases in intracellular sodium concentration [Na⁺]_i. Studies were performed on primary astrocytes derived from E17 rat striatum expressing Na,K-ATPase α1 and α2 and the glutamate/Na⁺ co-transporter GLAST. Selective inhibition of α2 resulted in a modest increase of [Na⁺]_i accompanied by a disproportionately large decrease in uptake of aspartate, an indicator of glutamate uptake. To compare the capacity of α1 and α2 to handle increases in [Na⁺]_i triggered by glutamate, primary astrocytes overexpressing either α1 or α2 were used. Exposure to glutamate 200 µM caused a significantly larger increase in [Na⁺]_i in α1 than in α2 overexpressing cells, and as a consequence restoration of [Na⁺]_i, after glutamate exposure was discontinued, took longer time in α1 than in α2 overexpressing cells. Both α1 and α2 interacted with astrocyte glutamate/Na⁺ co-transporters via the 1^st intracellular loop.

The discovery of human of GLUD2 glutamate dehydrogenase and its implications for cell function in health and disease

While the evolutionary changes that led to traits unique to humans remain unclear, there is increasing evidence that enrichment of the human genome through DNA duplication processes may have contributed to traits such as bipedal locomotion, higher cognitive abilities and language. Among the genes that arose through duplication in primates during the period of increased brain development was GLUD2, which encodes the hGDH2 isoform of glutamate dehydrogenase expressed in neural and other tissues. Glutamate dehydrogenase GDH is an enzyme central to the metabolism of glutamate, the main excitatory neurotransmitter in mammalian brain involved in a multitude of CNS functions, including cognitive processes. In nerve tissue GDH is expressed in astrocytes that wrap excitatory synapses, where it is thought to play a role in the metabolic fate of glutamate removed from the synaptic cleft during excitatory transmission. Expression of GDH rises sharply during postnatal brain development, coinciding with nerve terminal sprouting and synaptogenesis. Compared to the original hGDH1 (encoded by the GLUD1 gene), which is potently inhibited by GTP generated by the Krebs cycle, hGDH2 can function independently of this energy switch. In addition, hGDH2 can operate efficiently in the relatively acidic environment that prevails in astrocytes following glutamate uptake. This adaptation is thought to provide a biological advantage by enabling enhanced enzyme catalysis under intense excitatory neurotransmission. While the novel protein may help astrocytes to handle increased loads of transmitter glutamate, dissociation of hGDH2 from GTP control may render humans vulnerable to deregulation of this enzyme's function. Here we will retrace the cloning and characterization of the novel GLUD2 gene and the potential implications of this discovery in the understanding of mechanisms that permitted the brain and other organs that express hGDH2 to fine-tune their functions in order to meet new challenging demands. In addition, the potential role of gain-of-function of hGDH2 variants in human neurodegenerative processes will be considered.

Genes involved in the astrocyte-neuron lactate shuttle (ANLS) are specifically regulated in cortical astrocytes following sleep deprivation in mice

STUDY OBJECTIVES

There is growing evidence indicating that in order to meet the neuronal energy demands, astrocytes provide lactate as an energy substrate for neurons through a mechanism called "astrocyte-neuron lactate shuttle" (ANLS). Since neuronal activity changes dramatically during vigilance states, we hypothesized that the ANLS may be regulated during the sleep-wake cycle. To test this hypothesis we investigated the expression of genes associated with the ANLS specifically in astrocytes following sleep deprivation. Astrocytes were purified by fluorescence-activated cell sorting from transgenic mice expressing the green fluorescent protein (GFP) under the control of the human astrocytic GFAP-promoter.

DESIGN

6-hour instrumental sleep deprivation (TSD).

SETTING

Animal sleep research laboratory.

PARTICIPANTS

Young (P23-P27) FVB/N-Tg (GFAP-GFP) 14Mes/J (Tg) mice of both sexes and 7-8 week male Tg and FVB/Nj mice.

INTERVENTIONS

Basal sleep recordings and sleep deprivation achieved using a modified cage where animals were gently forced to move.

MEASUREMENTS AND RESULTS

Since Tg and FVB/Nj mice displayed a similar sleep-wake pattern, we performed a TSD in young Tg mice. Total RNA was extracted from the GFP-positive and GFP-negative cells sorted from cerebral cortex. Quantitative RT-PCR analysis showed that levels of Glut1, α-2-Na/K pump, Glt1, and Ldha mRNAs were significantly increased following TSD in GFP-positive cells. In GFP-negative cells, a tendency to increase, although not significant, was observed for Ldha, Mct2, and α-3-Na/K pump mRNAs.

CONCLUSIONS

This study shows that TSD induces the expression of genes associated with ANLS specifically in astrocytes, underlying the important role of astrocytes in the maintenance of the neuro-metabolic coupling across the sleep-wake cycle.

How do astrocytes shape synaptic transmission? Insights from electrophysiology

A major breakthrough in neuroscience has been the realization in the last decades that the dogmatic view of astroglial cells as being merely fostering and buffering elements of the nervous system is simplistic. A wealth of investigations now shows that astrocytes actually participate in the control of synaptic transmission in an active manner. This was first hinted by the intimate contacts glial processes make with neurons, particularly at the synaptic level, and evidenced using electrophysiological and calcium imaging techniques. Calcium imaging has provided critical evidence demonstrating that astrocytic regulation of synaptic efficacy is not a passive phenomenon. However, given that cellular activation is not only represented by calcium signaling, it is also crucial to assess concomitant mechanisms. We and others have used electrophysiological techniques to simultaneously record neuronal and astrocytic activity, thus enabling the study of multiple ionic currents and in depth investigation of neuro-glial dialogues. In the current review, we focus on the input such approach has provided in the understanding of astrocyte-neuron interactions underlying control of synaptic efficacy.

Lesion-induced alterations in astrocyte glutamate transporter expression and function in the hippocampus

Astrocytes express the sodium-dependent glutamate transporters GLAST and GLT-1, which are critical to maintain low extracellular glutamate concentrations. Here, we analyzed changes in their expression and function following a mechanical lesion in the CA1 area of organotypic hippocampal slices. 6-7 days after lesion, a glial scar had formed along the injury site, containing strongly activated astrocytes with increased GFAP and S100 β immunoreactivity, enlarged somata, and reduced capability for uptake of SR101. Astrocytes in the scar's periphery were swollen as well, but showed only moderate upregulation of GFAP and S100 β and efficiently took up SR101. In the scar, clusters of GLT-1 and GLAST immunoreactivity colocalized with GFAP-positive fibers. Apart from these, GLT-1 immunoreactivity declined with increasing distance from the scar, whereas GLAST expression appeared largely uniform. Sodium imaging in reactive astrocytes indicated that glutamate uptake was strongly reduced in the scar but maintained in the periphery. Our results thus show that moderately reactive astrocytes in the lesion periphery maintain overall glutamate transporter expression and function. Strongly reactive astrocytes in the scar, however, display clusters of GLAST and GLT-1 immunoreactivity together with reduced glutamate transport activity. This reduction might contribute to increased extracellular glutamate concentrations and promote excitotoxic cell damage at the lesion site.

Multifunctional role of astrocytes as gatekeepers of neuronal energy supply

Dynamic adjustments to neuronal energy supply in response to synaptic activity are critical for neuronal function. Glial cells known as astrocytes have processes that ensheath most central synapses and express G-protein-coupled neurotransmitter receptors and transporters that respond to neuronal activity. Astrocytes also release substrates for neuronal oxidative phosphorylation and have processes that terminate on the surface of brain arterioles and can influence vascular smooth muscle tone and local blood flow. Membrane receptor or transporter-mediated effects of glutamate represent a convergence point of astrocyte influence on neuronal bioenergetics. Astrocytic glutamate uptake drives glycolysis and subsequent shuttling of lactate from astrocytes to neurons for oxidative metabolism. Astrocytes also convert synaptically reclaimed glutamate to glutamine, which is returned to neurons for glutamate salvage or oxidation. Finally, astrocytes store brain energy currency in the form of glycogen, which can be mobilized to produce lactate for neuronal oxidative phosphorylation in response to glutamatergic neurotransmission. These mechanisms couple synaptically driven astrocytic responses to glutamate with release of energy substrates back to neurons to match demand with supply. In addition, astrocytes directly influence the tone of penetrating brain arterioles in response to glutamatergic neurotransmission, coordinating dynamic regulation of local blood flow. We will describe the role of astrocytes in neurometabolic and neurovascular coupling in detail and discuss, in turn, how astrocyte dysfunction may contribute to neuronal bioenergetic deficit and neurodegeneration. Understanding the role of astrocytes as a hub for neurometabolic and neurovascular coupling mechanisms is a critical underpinning for therapeutic development in a broad range of neurodegenerative disorders characterized by chronic generalized brain ischemia and brain microvascular dysfunction.