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Cordeiro A, Gomes C, Bicker J, Fortuna A. Aging and cognitive resilience: Molecular mechanisms as new potential therapeutic targets. Drug Discov Today 2024; 29:104093. [PMID: 38992420 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2024.104093] [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: 04/18/2024] [Revised: 06/25/2024] [Accepted: 07/04/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024]
Abstract
As the global population ages, the need to prolong lifespan and healthspan becomes increasingly imperative. Understanding the molecular determinants underlying cognitive resilience, together with changes during aging and the (epi)genetic factors that predispose an individual to decreased cognitive resilience, open avenues for researching novel therapies. This review provides a critical and timely appraisal of the molecular mechanisms underlying cognitive resilience, framed within a critical analysis of emerging therapeutic strategies to mitigate age-related cognitive decline. Significant insights from both animals and human subjects are discussed herein, directed either toward active pharmaceutical ingredients (drug repositioning or macromolecules), or, alternatively, advanced cellular therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Cordeiro
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Catarina Gomes
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal; CIBIT - Coimbra Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Translational Research, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Joana Bicker
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal; CIBIT - Coimbra Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Translational Research, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Ana Fortuna
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal; CIBIT - Coimbra Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Translational Research, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.
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2
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Bao S, Romero JM, Belfort BD, Arenkiel BR. Signaling mechanisms underlying activity-dependent integration of adult-born neurons in the mouse olfactory bulb. Genesis 2024; 62:e23595. [PMID: 38553878 PMCID: PMC10987073 DOI: 10.1002/dvg.23595] [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: 01/10/2024] [Revised: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024]
Abstract
Adult neurogenesis has fascinated the field of neuroscience for decades given the prospects of harnessing mechanisms that facilitate the rewiring and/or replacement of adult brain tissue. The subgranular zone of the hippocampus and the subventricular zone of the lateral ventricle are the two main areas in the brain that exhibit ongoing neurogenesis. Of these, adult-born neurons within the olfactory bulb have proven to be a powerful model for studying circuit plasticity, providing a broad and accessible avenue into neuron development, migration, and continued circuit integration within adult brain tissue. This review focuses on some of the recognized molecular and signaling mechanisms underlying activity-dependent adult-born neuron development. Notably, olfactory activity and behavioral states contribute to adult-born neuron plasticity through sensory and centrifugal inputs, in which calcium-dependent transcriptional programs, local translation, and neuropeptide signaling play important roles. This review also highlights areas of needed continued investigation to better understand the remarkable phenomenon of adult-born neuron integration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suyang Bao
- Development, Disease Models, and Therapeutics Graduate Program, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
- Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute, Texas Children’s Hospital, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
| | - Juan M. Romero
- Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute, Texas Children’s Hospital, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
- Medical Scientist Training Program, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
| | - Benjamin D.W. Belfort
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
- Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute, Texas Children’s Hospital, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
- Medical Scientist Training Program, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
- Genetics and Genomics Graduate Program, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
| | - Benjamin R. Arenkiel
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
- Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute, Texas Children’s Hospital, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
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3
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Basu S, Ro EJ, Liu Z, Kim H, Bennett A, Kang S, Suh H. The Mef2c Gene Dose-Dependently Controls Hippocampal Neurogenesis and the Expression of Autism-Like Behaviors. J Neurosci 2024; 44:e1058232023. [PMID: 38123360 PMCID: PMC10860657 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.1058-23.2023] [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: 05/29/2023] [Revised: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Mutations in the activity-dependent transcription factor MEF2C have been associated with several neuropsychiatric disorders. Among these, autism spectrum disorder (ASD)-related behavioral deficits are manifested. Multiple animal models that harbor mutations in Mef2c have provided compelling evidence that Mef2c is indeed an ASD gene. However, studies in mice with germline or global brain knock-out of Mef2c are limited in their ability to identify the precise neural substrates and cell types that are required for the expression of Mef2c-mediated ASD behaviors. Given the role of hippocampal neurogenesis in cognitive and social behaviors, in this study we aimed to investigate the role of Mef2c in the structure and function of newly generated dentate granule cells (DGCs) in the postnatal hippocampus and to determine whether disrupted Mef2c function is responsible for manifesting ASD behaviors. Overexpression of Mef2c (Mef2cOE ) arrested the transition of neurogenesis at progenitor stages, as indicated by sustained expression of Sox2+ in Mef2cOE DGCs. Conditional knock-out of Mef2c (Mef2ccko ) allowed neuronal commitment of Mef2ccko cells; however, Mef2ccko impaired not only dendritic arborization and spine formation but also synaptic transmission onto Mef2ccko DGCs. Moreover, the abnormal structure and function of Mef2ccko DGCs led to deficits in social interaction and social novelty recognition, which are key characteristics of ASD behaviors. Thus, our study revealed a dose-dependent requirement of Mef2c in the control of distinct steps of neurogenesis, as well as a critical cell-autonomous function of Mef2c in newborn DGCs in the expression of proper social behavior in both sexes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sreetama Basu
- Department of Neurosciences, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland 44109, Ohio
| | - Eun Jeoung Ro
- Department of Neurosciences, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland 44109, Ohio
| | - Zhi Liu
- Department of Neurosciences, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland 44109, Ohio
| | - Hyunjung Kim
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta 30912, Georgia
| | - Aubrey Bennett
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta 30912, Georgia
| | - Seungwoo Kang
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta 30912, Georgia
| | - Hoonkyo Suh
- Department of Neurosciences, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland 44109, Ohio
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4
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Chen Y, Wang X, Xiao B, Luo Z, Long H. Mechanisms and Functions of Activity-Regulated Cytoskeleton-Associated Protein in Synaptic Plasticity. Mol Neurobiol 2023; 60:5738-5754. [PMID: 37338805 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-023-03442-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 06/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/21/2023]
Abstract
Activity-regulated cytoskeleton-associated protein (Arc) is one of the most important regulators of cognitive functions in the brain regions. As a hub protein, Arc plays different roles in modulating synaptic plasticity. Arc supports the maintenance of long-term potentiation (LTP) by regulating actin cytoskeletal dynamics, while it guides the endocytosis of AMPAR in long-term depression (LTD). Moreover, Arc can self-assemble into capsids, leading to a new way of communicating among neurons. The transcription and translation of the immediate early gene Arc are rigorous procedures guided by numerous factors, and RNA polymerase II (Pol II) is considered to regulate the precise timing dynamics of gene expression. Since astrocytes can secrete brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and L-lactate, their unique roles in Arc expression are emphasized. Here, we review the entire process of Arc expression and summarize the factors that can affect Arc expression and function, including noncoding RNAs, transcription factors, and posttranscriptional regulations. We also attempt to review the functional states and mechanisms of Arc in modulating synaptic plasticity. Furthermore, we discuss the recent progress in understanding the roles of Arc in the occurrence of major neurological disorders and provide new thoughts for future research on Arc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yifan Chen
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
- Xiangya School of Stomatology, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Xiaohu Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, Fuwai Hospital, National Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Bo Xiao
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
- Clinical Research Center for Epileptic Disease of Hunan Province, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, People's Republic of China, 410008
| | - Zhaohui Luo
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China.
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China.
- Clinical Research Center for Epileptic Disease of Hunan Province, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, People's Republic of China, 410008.
| | - Hongyu Long
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China.
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China.
- Clinical Research Center for Epileptic Disease of Hunan Province, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, People's Republic of China, 410008.
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5
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Neves D, Salazar IL, Almeida RD, Silva RM. Molecular mechanisms of ischemia and glutamate excitotoxicity. Life Sci 2023; 328:121814. [PMID: 37236602 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2023.121814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2023] [Revised: 05/05/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Excitotoxicity is classically defined as the neuronal damage caused by the excessive release of glutamate, and subsequent activation of excitatory plasma membrane receptors. In the mammalian brain, this phenomenon is mainly driven by excessive activation of glutamate receptors (GRs). Excitotoxicity is common to several chronic disorders of the Central Nervous System (CNS) and is considered the primary mechanism of neuronal loss of function and cell death in acute CNS diseases (e.g. ischemic stroke). Multiple mechanisms and pathways lead to excitotoxic cell damage including pro-death signaling cascade events downstream of glutamate receptors, calcium (Ca2+) overload, oxidative stress, mitochondrial impairment, excessive glutamate in the synaptic cleft as well as altered energy metabolism. Here, we review the current knowledge on the molecular mechanisms that underlie excitotoxicity, emphasizing the role of Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide (NAD) metabolism. We also discuss novel and promising therapeutic strategies to treat excitotoxicity, highlighting recent clinical trials. Finally, we will shed light on the ongoing search for stroke biomarkers, an exciting and promising field of research, which may improve stroke diagnosis, prognosis and allow better treatment options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diogo Neves
- iBiMED - Institute of Biomedicine, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Ivan L Salazar
- Multidisciplinary Institute of Ageing, MIA - Portugal, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Ramiro D Almeida
- iBiMED - Institute of Biomedicine, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal; CNC - Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.
| | - Raquel M Silva
- iBiMED - Institute of Biomedicine, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal; Universidade Católica Portuguesa, Faculdade de Medicina Dentária, Centro de Investigação Interdisciplinar em Saúde, Viseu, Portugal.
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6
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Irfan M, Chung S. C5L2 modulates BDNF production in human dental pulp stem cells via p38α pathway. Sci Rep 2023; 13:74. [PMID: 36593314 PMCID: PMC9807628 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-27320-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Tissue injury affects nerve fibers and triggers an immune response, leading to inflammation. The complement system gets activated during inflammatory conditions and has been reported to be involved in the regeneration process. We have demonstrated that the C5a receptor (C5aR) has crucial roles in regeneration and healing processes including nerve sprouting and hard tissue formation. Another C5a-like 2 receptor (C5AR2; C5L2) has been cloned which is still considered controversial due to limited studies. We previously established that C5L2 regulates brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) secretion in pulp fibroblasts. However, there is no study available on human dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs), especially in the inflammatory context. Stem cell therapy is an emerging technique to treat and prevent several diseases. DPSCs are a great option to be considered due to their great ability to differentiate into a variety of cells and secrete nerve regeneration factors. Here, we demonstrated that C5L2 modulates BDNF secretion in DPSCs. Our results stated that C5L2 silencing through siRNA could increase BDNF production, which could accelerate the nerve regeneration process. Moreover, stimulation with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) enhanced BDNF production in C5L2 silenced DPSCs. Finally, we quantified BDNF secretion in supernatant and cell lysates using ELISA. Our results showed enhanced BDNF production in C5L2 silenced DPSCs and hampered by the p38MAPKα inhibitor. Taken together, our data reveal that C5L2 modulates BDNF production in DPSCs via the p38MAPKα pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Irfan
- Department of Oral Biology, College of Dentistry, University of Illinois Chicago, 801 S. Paulina St, Chicago, IL, 60612, USA
| | - Seung Chung
- Department of Oral Biology, College of Dentistry, University of Illinois Chicago, 801 S. Paulina St, Chicago, IL, 60612, USA.
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7
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Differential Regulation of the BDNF Gene in Cortical and Hippocampal Neurons. J Neurosci 2022; 42:9110-9128. [PMID: 36316156 PMCID: PMC9761680 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.2535-21.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2021] [Revised: 09/18/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is a widely expressed neurotrophin that supports the survival, differentiation, and signaling of various neuronal populations. Although it has been well described that expression of BDNF is strongly regulated by neuronal activity, little is known whether regulation of BDNF expression is similar in different brain regions. Here, we focused on this fundamental question using neuronal populations obtained from rat cerebral cortices and hippocampi of both sexes. First, we thoroughly characterized the role of the best-described regulators of BDNF gene - cAMP response element binding protein (CREB) family transcription factors, and show that activity-dependent BDNF expression depends more on CREB and the coactivators CREB binding protein (CBP) and CREB-regulated transcriptional coactivator 1 (CRTC1) in cortical than in hippocampal neurons. Our data also reveal an important role of CREB in the early induction of BDNF mRNA expression after neuronal activity and only modest contribution after prolonged neuronal activity. We further corroborated our findings at BDNF protein level. To determine the transcription factors regulating BDNF expression in these rat brain regions in addition to CREB family, we used in vitro DNA pulldown assay coupled with mass spectrometry, chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP), and bioinformatics, and propose a number of neurodevelopmentally important transcription factors, such as FOXP1, SATB2, RAI1, BCL11A, and TCF4 as brain region-specific regulators of BDNF expression. Together, our data reveal complicated brain region-specific fine-tuning of BDNF expression.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT To date, majority of the research has focused on the regulation of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in the brain but much less is known whether the regulation of BDNF expression is universal in different brain regions and neuronal populations. Here, we report that the best described regulators of BDNF gene from the cAMP-response element binding protein (CREB) transcription factor family have a more profound role in the activity-dependent regulation of BDNF in cortex than in hippocampus. Our results indicate a brain region-specific fine tuning of BDNF expression. Moreover, we have used unbiased determination of novel regulators of the BDNF gene and report a number of neurodevelopmentally important transcription factors as novel potential regulators of the BDNF expression.
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Tremblay MW, Green MV, Goldstein BM, Aldridge AI, Rosenfeld JA, Streff H, Tan WD, Craigen W, Bekheirnia N, Al Tala S, West AE, Jiang YH. Mutations of the histone linker H1-4 in neurodevelopmental disorders and functional characterization of neurons expressing C-terminus frameshift mutant H1.4. Hum Mol Genet 2022; 31:1430-1442. [PMID: 34788807 PMCID: PMC9271223 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddab321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2021] [Revised: 10/18/2021] [Accepted: 10/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Rahman syndrome (RMNS) is a rare genetic disorder characterized by mild to severe intellectual disability, hypotonia, anxiety, autism spectrum disorder, vision problems, bone abnormalities and dysmorphic facies. RMNS is caused by de novo heterozygous mutations in the histone linker gene H1-4; however, mechanisms underlying impaired neurodevelopment in RMNS are not understood. All reported mutations associated with RMNS in H1-4 are small insertions or deletions that create a shared frameshift, resulting in a H1.4 protein that is both truncated and possessing an abnormal C-terminus frameshifted tail (H1.4 CFT). To expand understanding of mutations and phenotypes associated with mutant H1-4, we identified new variants at both the C- and N-terminus of H1.4. The clinical features of mutations identified at the C-terminus are consistent with other reports and strengthen the support of pathogenicity of H1.4 CFT. To understand how H1.4 CFT may disrupt brain function, we exogenously expressed wild-type or H1.4 CFT protein in rat hippocampal neurons and assessed neuronal structure and function. Genome-wide transcriptome analysis revealed ~ 400 genes altered in the presence of H1.4 CFT. Neuronal genes downregulated by H1.4 CFT were enriched for functional categories involved in synaptic communication and neuropeptide signaling. Neurons expressing H1.4 CFT also showed reduced neuronal activity on multielectrode arrays. These data are the first to characterize the transcriptional and functional consequence of H1.4 CFT in neurons. Our data provide insight into causes of neurodevelopmental impairments associated with frameshift mutations in the C-terminus of H1.4 and highlight the need for future studies on the function of histone H1.4 in neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martine W Tremblay
- University Program in Genetics and Genomics, Duke University, Durham NC 27710, USA
- Department of Neurobiology, Duke University, Durham NC 27710, USA
| | - Matthew V Green
- Department of Neurobiology, Duke University, Durham NC 27710, USA
| | | | - Andrew I Aldridge
- University Program in Genetics and Genomics, Duke University, Durham NC 27710, USA
- Department of Neurobiology, Duke University, Durham NC 27710, USA
| | - Jill A Rosenfeld
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston TX 77030, USA
- Baylor Genetics Laboratories, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston TX 77030, USA
| | - Haley Streff
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston TX 77030, USA
| | - Wendy D Tan
- Department of Neurobiology, Duke University, Durham NC 27710, USA
| | - William Craigen
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston TX 77030, USA
| | - Nasim Bekheirnia
- Department of Pediatrics, Renal section, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston TX 77030, USA
| | - Saeed Al Tala
- Department of Pediatrics, Armed Forces Hospital SR, Khamis Mushayt 61961, Saudi Arabia
| | - Anne E West
- University Program in Genetics and Genomics, Duke University, Durham NC 27710, USA
- Department of Neurobiology, Duke University, Durham NC 27710, USA
| | - Yong-hui Jiang
- Department of Genetics, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven CT 06520, USA
- Neuroscience, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven CT 06520, USA
- Pediatrics, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven CT 06520, USA
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Conde-Dusman MJ, Dey PN, Elía-Zudaire Ó, Rabaneda LG, García-Lira C, Grand T, Briz V, Velasco ER, Andero R, Niñerola S, Barco A, Paoletti P, Wesseling JF, Gardoni F, Tavalin SJ, Perez-Otaño I. Control of protein synthesis and memory by GluN3A-NMDA receptors through inhibition of GIT1/mTORC1 assembly. eLife 2021; 10:e71575. [PMID: 34787081 PMCID: PMC8598234 DOI: 10.7554/elife.71575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Accepted: 10/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
De novo protein synthesis is required for synapse modifications underlying stable memory encoding. Yet neurons are highly compartmentalized cells and how protein synthesis can be regulated at the synapse level is unknown. Here, we characterize neuronal signaling complexes formed by the postsynaptic scaffold GIT1, the mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) kinase, and Raptor that couple synaptic stimuli to mTOR-dependent protein synthesis; and identify NMDA receptors containing GluN3A subunits as key negative regulators of GIT1 binding to mTOR. Disruption of GIT1/mTOR complexes by enhancing GluN3A expression or silencing GIT1 inhibits synaptic mTOR activation and restricts the mTOR-dependent translation of specific activity-regulated mRNAs. Conversely, GluN3A removal enables complex formation, potentiates mTOR-dependent protein synthesis, and facilitates the consolidation of associative and spatial memories in mice. The memory enhancement becomes evident with light or spaced training, can be achieved by selectively deleting GluN3A from excitatory neurons during adulthood, and does not compromise other aspects of cognition such as memory flexibility or extinction. Our findings provide mechanistic insight into synaptic translational control and reveal a potentially selective target for cognitive enhancement.
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Affiliation(s)
- María J Conde-Dusman
- lnstituto de Neurociencias (UMH-CSIC)AlicanteSpain
- Centro de Investigación Médica Aplicada (CIMA), University of NavarraPamplonaSpain
- Centre for Developmental Neurobiology, Institute of Psychiatry, King’s College LondonLondonUnited Kingdom
| | - Partha N Dey
- Centro de Investigación Médica Aplicada (CIMA), University of NavarraPamplonaSpain
- National Eye Institute, National Institutes of HealthBethesdaUnited States
| | | | - Luis G Rabaneda
- lnstituto de Neurociencias (UMH-CSIC)AlicanteSpain
- Centro de Investigación Médica Aplicada (CIMA), University of NavarraPamplonaSpain
- Institute of Science and Technology AustriaKlosterneuburgAustria
| | | | - Teddy Grand
- Institut de Biologie de l’Ecole Normale Supérieure/CNRS/INSERMParisFrance
| | - Victor Briz
- Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa (UAM-CSIC)MadridSpain
| | - Eric R Velasco
- Institut de Neurociències, Universitat Autònoma de BarcelonaBellaterraSpain
| | - Raül Andero
- Institut de Neurociències, Departament de Psicobiologia i de Metodologia de les Ciències de la Salut, Unitat de Neurociència Traslacional, Parc Taulí Hospital Universitari, Institut d’Investigació i Innovació Parc Taulí (I3PT), Universitat Autònoma de BarcelonaBellaterraSpain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental (CIBERSAM), Instituto de Salud Carlos IIIMadridSpain
- ICREABarcelonaSpain
| | | | - Angel Barco
- lnstituto de Neurociencias (UMH-CSIC)AlicanteSpain
| | - Pierre Paoletti
- Institut de Biologie de l’Ecole Normale Supérieure/CNRS/INSERMParisFrance
| | | | - Fabrizio Gardoni
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of MilanMilanItaly
| | - Steven J Tavalin
- Department of Pharmacology, Addiction Science, and Toxicology, University of Tennessee Health Science CenterMemphisUnited States
| | - Isabel Perez-Otaño
- lnstituto de Neurociencias (UMH-CSIC)AlicanteSpain
- Centro de Investigación Médica Aplicada (CIMA), University of NavarraPamplonaSpain
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10
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Obolenskaya M, Dotsenko V, Martsenyuk O, Ralchenko S, Krupko O, Pastukhov A, Filimonova N, Starosila D, Chernykh S, Borisova T. A new insight into mechanisms of interferon alpha neurotoxicity: Expression of GRIN3A subunit of NMDA receptors and NMDA-evoked exocytosis. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2021; 110:110317. [PMID: 33785426 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2021.110317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2020] [Revised: 03/23/2021] [Accepted: 03/25/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Neurological and psychiatric side effects accompany the high-dose interferon-alpha (IFNA) therapy. The primary genes responsible for these complications are mostly unknown. Our genome-wide search in mouse and rat genomes for the conservative genes containing IFN-stimulated response elements (ISRE) in their promoters revealed a new potential target gene of IFNA, Grin3α, which encodes the 3A subunit of NMDA receptor. This study aimed to explore the impact of IFNA on the expression of Grin3α and Ifnα genes and neurotransmitters endo/exocytosis in the mouse brain. We administered recombinant human IFN-alpha 2b (rhIFN-α2b) intracranially, and 24 h later, we isolated six brain regions and used the samples for RT-qPCR and western blot analysis. Synaptosomes were isolated from the cortex to analyze endo/exocytosis with acridine orange and L-[14C]glutamate. IFNA induced an increase in Grin3α mRNA and GRIN3A protein, but a decrease in Ifnα mRNA and protein. IFNA did not affect the accumulation and distribution of L-[14C]glutamate and acridine orange between synaptosomes and the extra-synaptosomal space. It caused the more significant acridine orange release activated by NMDA or glutamate than from control mice's synaptosomes. In response to IFNA, the newly discovered association between elevated Grin3α expression and NMDA- and glutamate-evoked neurotransmitters release from synaptosomes implies a new molecular mechanism of IFNA neurotoxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Obolenskaya
- Laboratory of systems biology, Institute of molecular biology and genetics of the National Academy of Sciences of, Kyiv, Ukraine.
| | - V Dotsenko
- Laboratory of systems biology, Institute of molecular biology and genetics of the National Academy of Sciences of, Kyiv, Ukraine
| | - O Martsenyuk
- Laboratory of systems biology, Institute of molecular biology and genetics of the National Academy of Sciences of, Kyiv, Ukraine
| | - S Ralchenko
- Laboratory of systems biology, Institute of molecular biology and genetics of the National Academy of Sciences of, Kyiv, Ukraine
| | - O Krupko
- The Department of Neurochemistry, Palladin Institute of Biochemistry of the National Academy of Sciences of, Kyiv, Ukraine
| | - A Pastukhov
- The Department of Neurochemistry, Palladin Institute of Biochemistry of the National Academy of Sciences of, Kyiv, Ukraine
| | - N Filimonova
- Educational and scientific center "Institute of Biology, Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Ukraine
| | - D Starosila
- State Institution LV. Gromashevskiy Institute of Epidemiology and Infectious Diseases of the National Academy of Medical Sciences of, Kyiv, Ukraine
| | - S Chernykh
- Laboratory of systems biology, Institute of molecular biology and genetics of the National Academy of Sciences of, Kyiv, Ukraine
| | - T Borisova
- The Department of Neurochemistry, Palladin Institute of Biochemistry of the National Academy of Sciences of, Kyiv, Ukraine
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Crawley O, Conde-Dusman MJ, Pérez-Otaño I. GluN3A NMDA receptor subunits: more enigmatic than ever? J Physiol 2021; 600:261-276. [PMID: 33942912 DOI: 10.1113/jp280879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2021] [Accepted: 04/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Non-conventional N-methyl-d-aspartate receptors (NMDARs) containing GluN3A subunits have unique biophysical, signalling and localization properties within the NMDAR family, and are typically thought to counterbalance functions of classical NMDARs made up of GluN1/2 subunits. Beyond their recognized roles in synapse refinement during postnatal development, recent evidence is building a wider perspective for GluN3A functions. Here we draw particular attention to the latest developments for this multifaceted and unusual subunit: from finely timed expression patterns that correlate with plasticity windows in developing brains or functional hierarchies in the mature brain to new insight onto presynaptic GluN3A-NMDARs, excitatory glycine receptors and behavioural impacts, alongside further connections to a range of brain disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oliver Crawley
- Unidad de Neurobiología Celular y de Sistemas, Instituto de Neurociencias (CSIC-UMH), San Juan de Alicante, 03550, Spain
| | - María J Conde-Dusman
- Unidad de Neurobiología Celular y de Sistemas, Instituto de Neurociencias (CSIC-UMH), San Juan de Alicante, 03550, Spain
| | - Isabel Pérez-Otaño
- Unidad de Neurobiología Celular y de Sistemas, Instituto de Neurociencias (CSIC-UMH), San Juan de Alicante, 03550, Spain
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12
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Engel DF, Bobbo VCD, Solon CS, Nogueira GA, Moura-Assis A, Mendes NF, Zanesco AM, Papangelis A, Ulven T, Velloso LA. Activation of GPR40 induces hypothalamic neurogenesis through p38- and BDNF-dependent mechanisms. Sci Rep 2020; 10:11047. [PMID: 32632088 PMCID: PMC7338363 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-68110-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2020] [Accepted: 06/19/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Hypothalamic adult neurogenesis provides the basis for renewal of neurons involved in the regulation of whole-body energy status. In addition to hormones, cytokines and growth factors, components of the diet, particularly fatty acids, have been shown to stimulate hypothalamic neurogenesis; however, the mechanisms behind this action are unknown. Here, we hypothesized that GPR40 (FFAR1), the receptor for medium and long chain unsaturated fatty acids, could mediate at least part of the neurogenic activity in the hypothalamus. We show that a GPR40 ligand increased hypothalamic cell proliferation and survival in adult mice. In postnatal generated neurospheres, acting in synergy with brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and interleukin 6, GPR40 activation increased the expression of doublecortin during the early differentiation phase and of the mature neuronal marker, microtubule-associated protein 2 (MAP2), during the late differentiation phase. In Neuro-2a proliferative cell-line GPR40 activation increased BDNF expression and p38 activation. The chemical inhibition of p38 abolished GPR40 effect in inducing neurogenesis markers in neurospheres, whereas BDNF immunoneutralization inhibited GPR40-induced cell proliferation in the hypothalamus of adult mice. Thus, GPR40 acts through p38 and BDNF to induce hypothalamic neurogenesis. This study provides mechanistic advance in the understating of how a fatty acid receptor regulates adult hypothalamic neurogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daiane F Engel
- Laboratory of Cell Signaling and Obesity and Comorbidities Research Center, University of Campinas, Campinas, SP, 13084-970, Brazil.
| | - Vanessa C D Bobbo
- Laboratory of Cell Signaling and Obesity and Comorbidities Research Center, University of Campinas, Campinas, SP, 13084-970, Brazil
| | - Carina S Solon
- Laboratory of Cell Signaling and Obesity and Comorbidities Research Center, University of Campinas, Campinas, SP, 13084-970, Brazil
| | - Guilherme A Nogueira
- Laboratory of Cell Signaling and Obesity and Comorbidities Research Center, University of Campinas, Campinas, SP, 13084-970, Brazil
| | - Alexandre Moura-Assis
- Laboratory of Cell Signaling and Obesity and Comorbidities Research Center, University of Campinas, Campinas, SP, 13084-970, Brazil
| | - Natalia F Mendes
- Laboratory of Cell Signaling and Obesity and Comorbidities Research Center, University of Campinas, Campinas, SP, 13084-970, Brazil
| | - Ariane M Zanesco
- Laboratory of Cell Signaling and Obesity and Comorbidities Research Center, University of Campinas, Campinas, SP, 13084-970, Brazil
| | - Athanasios Papangelis
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, University of Copenhagen, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Trond Ulven
- Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology, University of Copenhagen, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Licio A Velloso
- Laboratory of Cell Signaling and Obesity and Comorbidities Research Center, University of Campinas, Campinas, SP, 13084-970, Brazil.
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