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Psyrakis D, Jasiewicz J, Wehrmeister M, Bonni K, Lutz B, Kodirov SA. Progressive long-term synaptic depression at cortical inputs into the amygdala. Neuroscience 2024; 556:52-65. [PMID: 39094820 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2024.07.049] [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: 05/15/2024] [Revised: 07/14/2024] [Accepted: 07/29/2024] [Indexed: 08/04/2024]
Abstract
The convergence of conditioned and unconditioned stimuli (CS and US) into the lateral amygdala (LA) serves as a substrate for an adequate fear response in vivo. This well-known Pavlovian paradigm modulates the synaptic plasticity of neurons, as can be proved by the long-term potentiation (LTP) phenomenon in vitro. Although there is an increasing body of evidence for the existence of LTP in the amygdala, only a few studies were able to show a reliable long-term depression (LTD) of excitation in this structure. We have used coronal brain slices and conducted patch-clamp recordings in pyramidal neurons of the lateral amygdala (LA). After obtaining a stable baseline excitatory postsynaptic current (EPSC) response at a holding potential of -70 mV, we employed a paired-pulse paradigm at 1 Hz at the same membrane potential and could observe a reliable LTD. The different durations of stimulation (ranging between 1.5-24 min) were tested first in the same neuron, but the intensity was kept constant. The latter paradigm resulted in a step-wise LTD with a gradually increasing magnitude under these conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dimitrios Psyrakis
- Institute of Physiological Chemistry and Pathobiochemistry, University Medical Center Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Julia Jasiewicz
- Institute of Physiological Chemistry and Pathobiochemistry, University Medical Center Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Michael Wehrmeister
- Institute of Physiological Chemistry and Pathobiochemistry, University Medical Center Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Kathrin Bonni
- Institute of Physiological Chemistry and Pathobiochemistry, University Medical Center Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Beat Lutz
- Institute of Physiological Chemistry and Pathobiochemistry, University Medical Center Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Sodikdjon A Kodirov
- Institute of Physiological Chemistry and Pathobiochemistry, University Medical Center Mainz, Mainz, Germany; Center for Biomedical Studies, Department of Biological Sciences, University of Texas at Brownsville, TX 78520, USA; Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal; Institute of Biophysics, Johannes Kepler University, Linz, Austria.
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2
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Wang G, Qi W, Liu QH, Guan W. GluN2A: A Promising Target for Developing Novel Antidepressants. Int J Neuropsychopharmacol 2024; 27:pyae037. [PMID: 39185814 DOI: 10.1093/ijnp/pyae037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2024] [Accepted: 08/23/2024] [Indexed: 08/27/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Depression is a heterogeneous disorder with high morbidity and disability rates that poses serious problems regarding mental health care. It is now well established that N-methyl D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) modulators are being increasingly explored as potential therapeutic options for treating depression, although relatively little is known about their mechanisms of action. NMDARs are glutamate-gated ion channels that are ubiquitously expressed in the central nervous system (CNS), and they have been shown to play key roles in excitatory synaptic transmission. GluN2A, the predominant Glu2N subunit of functional NMDARs in neurons, is involved in various physiological processes in the CNS and is associated with diseases such as anxiety, depression, and schizophrenia. However, the role of GluN2A in the pathophysiology of depression has not yet been elucidated. METHODS We reviewed several past studies to better understand the function of GluN2A in depression. Additionally, we also summarized the pathogenesis of depression based on the regulation of GluN2A expression, particularly its interaction with neuroinflammation and neurogenesis, which has received considerable critical attention and is highly implicated in the onset of depression. RESULTS These evidence suggests that GluN2A overexpression impairs structural and functional synaptic plasticity, which contributes to the development of depression. Consequently, this knowledge is vital for the development of selective antagonists targeting GluN2A subunits using pharmacological and molecular methods. CONCLUSIONS Specific inhibition of the GluN2A NMDAR subunit is resistant to chronic stress-induced depressive-like behaviors, making them promising targets for the development of novel antidepressants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gang Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Zhangjiagang Hospital affiliated to Soochow University/The First People's Hospital of Zhangjiagang City, Zhangjiagang, China
| | - Wang Qi
- Department of Pharmacology, The First People's Hospital of Yancheng, Yancheng, China
| | - Qiu-Hua Liu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Zhangjiagang Hospital affiliated to Soochow University/The First People's Hospital of Zhangjiagang City, Zhangjiagang, China
| | - Wei Guan
- Department of Pharmacology, Pharmacy College, Nantong University, Nantong, China
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3
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Volianskis R, Lundbye CJ, Petroff GN, Jane DE, Georgiou J, Collingridge GL. Cage effects on synaptic plasticity and its modulation in a mouse model of fragile X syndrome. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2024; 379:20230484. [PMID: 38853552 PMCID: PMC11343313 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2023.0484] [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: 02/01/2024] [Revised: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Fragile X syndrome (FXS) is characterized by impairments in executive function including different types of learning and memory. Long-term potentiation (LTP), thought to underlie the formation of memories, has been studied in the Fmr1 mouse model of FXS. However, there have been many discrepancies in the literature with inconsistent use of littermate and non-littermate Fmr1 knockout (KO) and wild-type (WT) control mice. Here, the influence of the breeding strategy (cage effect) on short-term potentiation (STP), LTP, contextual fear conditioning (CFC), expression of N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) subunits and the modulation of NMDARs, were examined. The largest deficits in STP, LTP and CFC were found in KO mice compared with non-littermate WT. However, the expression of NMDAR subunits was unchanged in this comparison. Rather, NMDAR subunit (GluN1, 2A, 2B) expression was sensitive to the cage effect, with decreased expression in both WT and KO littermates compared with non-littermates. Interestingly, an NMDAR-positive allosteric modulator, UBP714, was only effective in potentiating the induction of LTP in non-littermate KO mice and not the littermate KO mice. These results suggest that commonly studied phenotypes in Fmr1 KOs are sensitive to the cage effect and therefore the breeding strategy may contribute to discrepancies in the literature.This article is part of a discussion meeting issue 'Long-term potentiation: 50 years on'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rasa Volianskis
- Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital, Sinai Health System, Toronto, OntarioM5G 1X5, Canada
- Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, OntarioM5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Camilla J. Lundbye
- Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital, Sinai Health System, Toronto, OntarioM5G 1X5, Canada
- Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, OntarioM5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Gillian N. Petroff
- Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital, Sinai Health System, Toronto, OntarioM5G 1X5, Canada
- Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, OntarioM5S 1A8, Canada
| | - David. E. Jane
- Hello Bio Limited, Cabot Park, Avonmouth, BristolBS11 0QL, UK
| | - John Georgiou
- Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital, Sinai Health System, Toronto, OntarioM5G 1X5, Canada
- TANZ Centre for Research in Neurodegenerative Diseases, University of Toronto, Toronto, OntarioM5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Graham L. Collingridge
- Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital, Sinai Health System, Toronto, OntarioM5G 1X5, Canada
- Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, OntarioM5S 1A8, Canada
- TANZ Centre for Research in Neurodegenerative Diseases, University of Toronto, Toronto, OntarioM5S 1A8, Canada
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4
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Duan X, Han H, Liu J, Qiu Y, Wang Y, Wu X, Zhang H, Zou Z, Qiu J, Chen C, Xiao F, Tian X. Deferasirox exerts anti-epileptic effects by improving brain iron homeostasis via regulation of ITPRIP. Neurochem Int 2024; 176:105725. [PMID: 38561151 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuint.2024.105725] [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: 02/19/2024] [Revised: 03/16/2024] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Epilepsy constitutes a global health concern, affecting millions of individuals and approximately one-third of patients exhibit drug resistance. Recent investigations have revealed alterations in cerebral iron content in both epilepsy patients and animal models. However, the extant literature lacks a comprehensive exploration into the ramifications of modulating iron homeostasis as an intervention in epilepsy. This study investigated the impact of deferasirox, a iron ion chelator, on epilepsy. This study unequivocally substantiated the antiepileptic efficacy of deferasirox in a kainic acid-induced epilepsy model. Furthermore, deferasirox administration mitigated seizure susceptibility in a pentylenetetrazol-induced kindling model. Conversely, the augmentation of iron levels through supplementation has emerged as a potential exacerbating factor in the precipitating onset of epilepsy. Intriguingly, our investigation revealed a hitherto unreported discovery: ITPRIP was identified as a pivotal modulator of excitatory synaptic transmission, regulating seizures in response to deferasirox treatment. In summary, our findings indicate that deferasirox exerts its antiepileptic effects through the precise targeting of ITPRIP and amelioration of cerebral iron homeostasis, suggesting that deferasirox is a promising and novel therapeutic avenue for interventions in epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinhao Duan
- Department of Health Laboratory Technology, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Huifang Han
- Department of Health Laboratory Technology, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Jing Liu
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Neurology, Chongqing, 400016, China; Department of Neurology, Chongqing University Three Gorges Hospital, Chongqing, 404100, China
| | - Yu Qiu
- Department of Neurology, University-Town Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 401331, China
| | - Yi Wang
- Key Laboratory of Neuropharmacology and Translational Medicine of Zhejiang Province, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, China
| | - Xiaotian Wu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, University-Town Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 401331, China
| | - Hui Zhang
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Neurology, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Zhen Zou
- Molecular Biology Laboratory of Respiratory Diseases, Institute of Life Sciences, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Jingfu Qiu
- Department of Health Laboratory Technology, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Chengzhi Chen
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China.
| | - Fei Xiao
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Neurology, Chongqing, 400016, China; Key Laboratory of Major Brain Disease and Aging Research(Ministry of Education), Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China.
| | - Xin Tian
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Neurology, Chongqing, 400016, China; Key Laboratory of Major Brain Disease and Aging Research(Ministry of Education), Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China.
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5
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Banke TG, Traynelis SF, Barria A. Early expression of GluN2A-containing NMDA receptors in a model of fragile X syndrome. J Neurophysiol 2024; 131:768-777. [PMID: 38380828 PMCID: PMC11254340 DOI: 10.1152/jn.00406.2023] [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: 11/02/2023] [Revised: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024] Open
Abstract
NMDA-type glutamate receptors (NMDARs) play a crucial role in synaptogenesis, circuit development, and synaptic plasticity, serving as fundamental components in cellular models of learning and memory. Their dysregulation has been implicated in several neurological disorders and synaptopathies. NMDARs are heterotetrameric complexes composed of two GluN1 and two GluN2 subunits. The composition of GluN2 subunits determines the main biophysical properties of the channel, such as calcium permeability and gating kinetics, and influences the ability of the receptor to interact with postsynaptic proteins involved in normal synaptic physiology and plasticity, including scaffolding proteins and signaling molecules. During early development, NMDARs in the forebrain contain solely the GluN2B subunit, a necessary subunit for proper synaptogenesis and synaptic plasticity. As the animal matures, the expression of the GluN2A subunit increases, leading to a partial replacement of GluN2B-containing synaptic NMDARs with GluN2A-containing receptors. The switch in the synaptic GluN2A-to-GluN2B ratio has a significant impact on the kinetics of excitatory postsynaptic currents and diminishes the synaptic plasticity capacity. In this study, we present findings indicating that GluN2A expression occurs earlier in a mouse model of fragile X syndrome (FXS). This altered timing of GluN2A expression affects various important parameters of NMDAR-mediated excitatory postsynaptic currents, including maximal current amplitude, decay time, and response to consecutive stimuli delivered in close temporal proximity. These observations suggest that the early expression of GluN2A during a critical period when synapses and circuits are developing could be an underlying factor contributing to the formation of pathological circuits in the FXS mouse model.NEW & NOTEWORTHY NMDA receptors (NMDARs) play important roles in synaptic transmission and are involved in multiple neurological disorders. During development, GluN2A in the forebrain becomes incorporated into previously GluN2B-dominated NMDARs, leading to the "GluN2A/GluN2B ratio switch." This is a crucial step for normal brain development. Here we present findings indicating that GluN2A expression occurs earlier in the fragile X mouse and this could be an underlying factor contributing to the pathology found in the fragile X model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tue G Banke
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington, United States
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, United States
| | - Stephen F Traynelis
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, United States
| | - Andres Barria
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington, United States
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6
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Ntoulas G, Brakatselos C, Nakas G, Asprogerakas MZ, Delis F, Leontiadis LJ, Trompoukis G, Papatheodoropoulos C, Gkikas D, Valakos D, Vatsellas G, Politis PK, Polissidis A, Antoniou K. Multi-level profiling of the Fmr1 KO rat unveils altered behavioral traits along with aberrant glutamatergic function. Transl Psychiatry 2024; 14:104. [PMID: 38378836 PMCID: PMC10879511 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-024-02815-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2023] [Revised: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Fragile X syndrome (FXS) is the most common cause of inherited intellectual disabilities and the most prevalent monogenic cause of autism. Although the knockout (KO) of the Fmr1 gene homolog in mice is primarily used for elucidating the neurobiological substrate of FXS, there is limited association of the experimental data with the pathophysiological condition in humans. The use of Fmr1 KO rats offers additional translational validity in this regard. Therefore, we employed a multi-level approach to study the behavioral profile and the glutamatergic and GABAergic neurotransmission status in pathophysiology-associated brain structures of Fmr1 KO rats, including the recordings of evoked and spontaneous field potentials from hippocampal slices, paralleled with next-generation RNA sequencing (RNA-seq). We found that these rats exhibit hyperactivity and cognitive deficits, along with characteristic bidirectional glutamatergic and GABAergic alterations in the prefrontal cortex and the hippocampus. These results are coupled to affected excitability and local inhibitory processes in the hippocampus, along with a specific transcriptional profile, highlighting dysregulated hippocampal network activity in KO rats. Overall, our data provide novel insights concerning the biobehavioral profile of FmR1 KO rats and translationally upscales our understanding on pathophysiology and symptomatology of FXS syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- George Ntoulas
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Charalampos Brakatselos
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Gerasimos Nakas
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Michail-Zois Asprogerakas
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Foteini Delis
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Leonidas J Leontiadis
- Laboratory of Neurophysiology, Department of Medicine, University of Patras, Rion, Greece
| | - George Trompoukis
- Laboratory of Neurophysiology, Department of Medicine, University of Patras, Rion, Greece
| | | | - Dimitrios Gkikas
- Center of Basic Research, Biomedical Research Foundation of the Academy of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Dimitrios Valakos
- Center of Basic Research, Biomedical Research Foundation of the Academy of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Giannis Vatsellas
- Center of Basic Research, Biomedical Research Foundation of the Academy of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Panagiotis K Politis
- Center of Basic Research, Biomedical Research Foundation of the Academy of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Alexia Polissidis
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece
- Center of Clinical, Experimental Surgery and Translational Research, Biomedical Research Foundation of the Academy of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Katerina Antoniou
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece.
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7
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Winden KD, Pham TT, Teaney NA, Ruiz J, Chen R, Chen C, Sahin M. Increased degradation of FMRP contributes to neuronal hyperexcitability in tuberous sclerosis complex. Cell Rep 2023; 42:112838. [PMID: 37494191 PMCID: PMC10529098 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2023.112838] [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: 12/16/2022] [Revised: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a highly prevalent neurodevelopmental disorder, but new therapies have been impeded by a lack of understanding of the pathological mechanisms. Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) and fragile X syndrome are associated with alterations in the mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) and fragile X messenger ribonucleoprotein 1 (FMRP), which have been implicated in the development of ASD. Previously, we observed that transcripts associated with FMRP were down-regulated in TSC2-deficient neurons. In this study, we find that FMRP turnover is dysregulated in TSC2-deficient rodent primary neurons and human induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived neurons and is dependent on the E3 ubiquitin ligase anaphase-promoting complex. We also demonstrate that overexpression of FMRP can partially rescue hyperexcitability in TSC2-deficient iPSC-derived neurons. These data indicate that FMRP dysregulation represents an important pathological mechanism in the development of abnormal neuronal activity in TSC and illustrate a molecular convergence between these two neurogenetic disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kellen D Winden
- Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Truc T Pham
- Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Nicole A Teaney
- Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Juan Ruiz
- Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Ryan Chen
- Human Neuron Core, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Cidi Chen
- Human Neuron Core, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Rosamund Stone Zander Translational Neuroscience Center, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Mustafa Sahin
- Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Rosamund Stone Zander Translational Neuroscience Center, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
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8
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Li K, Liang X, Xie X, Tian L, Yan J, Lin B, Liu H, Lai W, Liu X, Xi Z. Role of SHANK3 in concentrated ambient PM2. 5 exposure induced autism-like phenotype. Heliyon 2023; 9:e14328. [PMID: 36938421 PMCID: PMC10018567 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e14328] [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: 05/09/2022] [Revised: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Perinatal air pollution plays an important role in the development of autism. However, research on the pathogenic mechanism remains limited. In this study, the model of systemic inhalation of concentrated approximately 8-fold the level (mean concentration was 224 μg/m3) reported in ambient outdoor air of PM2.5 (particulate matters that are 2.5 μm or less in diameter)in early-postnatal male Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats was established. Through a series of autism-related behavioral tests, it was identified that young rats (postnatal day 1-day21, named PND1-PND21) exposed to PM2.5 exhibited typical autistic phenotypes, such as impaired language communication, abnormal repetitive and stereotyped behaviors, and impaired social skills. Moreover, synaptic abnormalities have been found in the brain tissues of young rats exposed to PM2.5. In terms of the molecular mechanism, we found that the levels of SH3 and multiple ankyrin repeat domains 3 (SHANK3) expression and key molecular proteins in the downstream signaling pathways were decreased in the brain tissues of the exposed rats. Finally, at the epigenetic level, SHANK3 methylation levels were increased in young rats exposed to PM2.5. In conclusion, the study revealed that PM2.5 exposure might induce the early postnatal autism through the SHANK3 signaling pathway by affecting the SHANK3 methylation levels and reducing the SHANK3 expression levels. The study could provide new ideas for autism etiology and a theoretical basis for the prevention and treatment of autism in children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kang Li
- Tianjin Institute of Environmental and Operational Medicine, Tianjin, 300050, China
| | - Xiaotian Liang
- Tianjin Institute of Environmental and Operational Medicine, Tianjin, 300050, China
- Binzhou Medical College, Yantai, 264000, China
| | - Xiaoqian Xie
- Tianjin Institute of Environmental and Operational Medicine, Tianjin, 300050, China
- Binzhou Medical College, Yantai, 264000, China
| | - Lei Tian
- Tianjin Institute of Environmental and Operational Medicine, Tianjin, 300050, China
| | - Jun Yan
- Tianjin Institute of Environmental and Operational Medicine, Tianjin, 300050, China
| | - Bencheng Lin
- Tianjin Institute of Environmental and Operational Medicine, Tianjin, 300050, China
| | - Huanliang Liu
- Tianjin Institute of Environmental and Operational Medicine, Tianjin, 300050, China
| | - Wenqin Lai
- Tianjin Institute of Environmental and Operational Medicine, Tianjin, 300050, China
| | - Xiaohua Liu
- Tianjin Institute of Environmental and Operational Medicine, Tianjin, 300050, China
- Corresponding author.
| | - Zhuge Xi
- Tianjin Institute of Environmental and Operational Medicine, Tianjin, 300050, China
- Binzhou Medical College, Yantai, 264000, China
- Corresponding author. Tianjin Institute of Environmental and Operational Medicine, No. 1, Dali Road, Heping District, Tianjin, 300050, PR China.
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9
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Postsynaptic autism spectrum disorder genes and synaptic dysfunction. Neurobiol Dis 2021; 162:105564. [PMID: 34838666 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2021.105564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2021] [Revised: 11/17/2021] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
This review provides an overview of the synaptic dysfunction of neuronal circuits and the ensuing behavioral alterations caused by mutations in autism spectrum disorder (ASD)-linked genes directly or indirectly affecting the postsynaptic neuronal compartment. There are plenty of ASD risk genes, that may be broadly grouped into those involved in gene expression regulation (epigenetic regulation and transcription) and genes regulating synaptic activity (neural communication and neurotransmission). Notably, the effects mediated by ASD-associated genes can vary extensively depending on the developmental time and/or subcellular site of expression. Therefore, in order to gain a better understanding of the mechanisms of disruptions in postsynaptic function, an effort to better model ASD in experimental animals is required to improve standardization and increase reproducibility within and among studies. Such an effort holds promise to provide deeper insight into the development of these disorders and to improve the translational value of preclinical studies.
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10
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Chiodi V, Domenici MR, Biagini T, De Simone R, Tartaglione AM, Di Rosa M, Lo Re O, Mazza T, Micale V, Vinciguerra M. Systemic depletion of histone macroH2A1.1 boosts hippocampal synaptic plasticity and social behavior in mice. FASEB J 2021; 35:e21793. [PMID: 34320234 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202100569r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2021] [Revised: 06/12/2021] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Gene expression and epigenetic processes in several brain regions regulate physiological processes such as cognitive functions and social behavior. MacroH2A1.1 is a ubiquitous variant of histone H2A that regulates cell stemness and differentiation in various organs. Whether macroH2A1.1 has a modulatory role in emotional behavior is unknown. Here, we employed macroH2A1.1 knock-out (-/- ) mice to perform a comprehensive battery of behavioral tests, and an assessment of hippocampal synaptic plasticity (long-term potentiation) accompanied by whole hippocampus RNA sequencing. MacroH2A1.1-/- mice exhibit a stunningly enhancement both of sociability and of active stress-coping behavior, reflected by the increased social behavior in social activity tests and higher mobility time in the forced swim test, respectively. They also display an increased hippocampal synaptic plasticity, accompanied by significant neurotransmission transcriptional networks changes. These results suggest that systemic depletion of histone macroH2A1.1 supports an epigenetic control necessary for hippocampal function and social behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Chiodi
- National Centre for Drug Research and Evaluation, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Rosaria Domenici
- National Centre for Drug Research and Evaluation, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Tommaso Biagini
- IRCCS Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, Bioinformatics Unit, San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy
| | - Roberta De Simone
- National Centre for Drug Research and Evaluation, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Anna Maria Tartaglione
- Centre for Behavioral Sciences and Mental Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Michelino Di Rosa
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Oriana Lo Re
- International Clinical Research Center, St Anne's University Hospital, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Tommaso Mazza
- IRCCS Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, Bioinformatics Unit, San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Micale
- National Centre for Drug Research and Evaluation, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy.,Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Manlio Vinciguerra
- International Clinical Research Center, St Anne's University Hospital, Brno, Czech Republic.,ERA Chair in Translational Stem Cell Biology, Medical University-Varna, Varna, Bulgaria.,Division of Medicine, University College London (UCL), London, UK
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11
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Banke TG, Barria A. Transient Enhanced GluA2 Expression in Young Hippocampal Neurons of a Fragile X Mouse Model. Front Synaptic Neurosci 2020; 12:588295. [PMID: 33343326 PMCID: PMC7745073 DOI: 10.3389/fnsyn.2020.588295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2020] [Accepted: 11/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
AMPA-type glutamate receptors (AMPARs) are tetrameric ligand-gated channels made up of combinations of GluA1-4 subunits and play important roles in synaptic transmission and plasticity. Here, we have investigated the development of AMPAR-mediated synaptic transmission in the hippocampus of the Fmr1 knock-out (KO) mouse, a widely used model of Fragile X syndrome (FXS). FXS is the leading monogenic cause of intellectual disability and autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and it is considered a neurodevelopmental disorder. For that reason, we investigated synaptic properties and dendritic development in animals from an early stage when synapses are starting to form up to adulthood. We found that hippocampal CA1 pyramidal neurons in the Fmr1-KO mouse exhibit a higher AMPAR-NMDAR ratio early in development but reverses to normal values after P13. This increase was accompanied by a larger presence of the GluA2-subunit in synaptic AMPARs that will lead to altered Ca2+ permeability of AMPARs that could have a profound impact upon neural circuits, learning, and diseases. Following this, we found that young KO animals lack Long-term potentiation (LTP), a well-understood model of synaptic plasticity necessary for proper development of circuits, and exhibit an increased frequency of spontaneous miniature excitatory postsynaptic currents, a measure of synaptic density. Furthermore, post hoc morphological analysis of recorded neurons revealed altered dendritic branching in the KO group. Interestingly, all these anomalies are transitory and revert to normal values in older animals. Our data suggest that loss of FMRP during early development leads to temporary upregulation of the GluA2 subunit and this impacts synaptic plasticity and altering morphological dendritic branching.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tue G Banke
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Andres Barria
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
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12
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Synaptic GluN2A-Containing NMDA Receptors: From Physiology to Pathological Synaptic Plasticity. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21041538. [PMID: 32102377 PMCID: PMC7073220 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21041538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2020] [Revised: 02/20/2020] [Accepted: 02/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
N-Methyl-d-Aspartate Receptors (NMDARs) are ionotropic glutamate-gated receptors. NMDARs are tetramers composed by several homologous subunits of GluN1-, GluN2-, or GluN3-type, leading to the existence in the central nervous system of a high variety of receptor subtypes with different pharmacological and signaling properties. NMDAR subunit composition is strictly regulated during development and by activity-dependent synaptic plasticity. Given the differences between GluN2 regulatory subunits of NMDAR in several functions, here we will focus on the synaptic pool of NMDARs containing the GluN2A subunit, addressing its role in both physiology and pathological synaptic plasticity as well as the contribution in these events of different types of GluN2A-interacting proteins.
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13
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Heavner WE, Smith SEP. Resolving the Synaptic versus Developmental Dichotomy of Autism Risk Genes. Trends Neurosci 2020; 43:227-241. [PMID: 32209454 DOI: 10.1016/j.tins.2020.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2019] [Revised: 01/21/2020] [Accepted: 01/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Genes that are mutated in Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) can be classified broadly as either synaptic or developmental. But what if this is a false distinction? A recent spate of publications has provided evidence for developmental mechanisms that rely on neural activity for proper cortical development. Conversely, a growing body of evidence indicates a role for developmental mechanisms, particularly chromatin remodeling, during learning or in response to neural activity. Here, we review these recent publications and propose a model in which genes that confer ASD risk operate in signal transduction networks critical for both cortical development and synaptic homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Whitney E Heavner
- Center for Integrative Brain Research, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Stephen E P Smith
- Center for Integrative Brain Research, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA, USA; Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA; Graduate Program in Neuroscience, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
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14
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Bliss T, Collingridge GL. Persistent memories of long-term potentiation and the N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor. Brain Neurosci Adv 2019; 3:2398212819848213. [PMID: 32166182 PMCID: PMC7058229 DOI: 10.1177/2398212819848213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2018] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
In this article, we describe our involvement in the early days of research into long-term potentiation. We start with a description of the early experiments conducted in Oslo and London where long-term potentiation was first characterised. We discuss the ways in which the molecular pharmacology of glutamate receptors control the induction and expression of long-term potentiation and its counterpart, long-term depression. We then go on to summarise the extraordinary advances in understanding the cellular mechanisms of synaptic plasticity that have taken place in the subsequent half century. Finally, the increasing evidence that impaired long-term potentiation is a core feature of many brain disorders (LToPathies) is addressed by way of a few selected examples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tvp Bliss
- The Francis Crick Institute, London, UK.,Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - G L Collingridge
- Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Tanz Centre for Research in Neurodegenerative Diseases and Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada.,School of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
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15
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Guang S, Pang N, Deng X, Yang L, He F, Wu L, Chen C, Yin F, Peng J. Synaptopathology Involved in Autism Spectrum Disorder. Front Cell Neurosci 2018; 12:470. [PMID: 30627085 PMCID: PMC6309163 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2018.00470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 154] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2018] [Accepted: 11/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) encompasses a group of multifactorial neurodevelopmental disorders characterized by impaired social communication, social interaction and repetitive behaviors. ASD affects 1 in 59 children, and is about 4 times more common among boys than among girls. Strong genetic components, together with environmental factors in the early stage of development, contribute to the pathogenesis of ASD. Multiple studies have revealed that mutations in genes like NRXN, NLGN, SHANK, TSC1/2, FMR1, and MECP2 converge on common cellular pathways that intersect at synapses. These genes encode cell adhesion molecules, scaffolding proteins and proteins involved in synaptic transcription, protein synthesis and degradation, affecting various aspects of synapses including synapse formation and elimination, synaptic transmission and plasticity. This suggests that the pathogenesis of ASD may, at least in part, be attributed to synaptic dysfunction. In this article, we will review major genes and signaling pathways implicated in synaptic abnormalities underlying ASD, and discuss molecular, cellular and functional studies of ASD experimental models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiqi Guang
- Department of Pediatrics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Hunan Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center, Changsha, China
| | - Nan Pang
- Department of Pediatrics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Hunan Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center, Changsha, China
| | - Xiaolu Deng
- Department of Pediatrics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Hunan Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center, Changsha, China
| | - Lifen Yang
- Department of Pediatrics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Hunan Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center, Changsha, China
| | - Fang He
- Department of Pediatrics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Hunan Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center, Changsha, China
| | - Liwen Wu
- Department of Pediatrics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Hunan Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center, Changsha, China
| | - Chen Chen
- Department of Pediatrics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Hunan Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center, Changsha, China
| | - Fei Yin
- Department of Pediatrics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Hunan Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center, Changsha, China
| | - Jing Peng
- Department of Pediatrics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Hunan Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center, Changsha, China
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