Brain region and gene specificity of neuropeptide gene expression in cultured astrocytes

Peripherally Acting Opioids in Orofacial Pain

The activation of opioid receptors by exogenous or endogenous opioids can produce significant analgesic effects in peripheral tissues. Numerous researchers have demonstrated the expression of peripheral opioid receptors (PORs) and endogenous opioid peptides (EOPs) in the orofacial region. Growing evidence has shown the involvement of PORs and immune cell-derived EOPs in the modulation of orofacial pain. In this review, we discuss the role of PORs and EOPs in orofacial pain and the possible cellular mechanisms involved. Furthermore, the potential development of therapeutic strategies for orofacial pain is also summarized.

Opioid and neuroHIV Comorbidity - Current and Future Perspectives

With the current national opioid crisis, it is critical to examine the mechanisms underlying pathophysiologic interactions between human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and opioids in the central nervous system (CNS). Recent advances in experimental models, methodology, and our understanding of disease processes at the molecular and cellular levels reveal opioid-HIV interactions with increasing clarity. However, despite the substantial new insight, the unique impact of opioids on the severity, progression, and prognosis of neuroHIV and HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders (HAND) are not fully understood. In this review, we explore, in detail, what is currently known about mechanisms underlying opioid interactions with HIV, with emphasis on individual HIV-1-expressed gene products at the molecular, cellular and systems levels. Furthermore, we review preclinical and clinical studies with a focus on key considerations when addressing questions of whether opioid-HIV interactive pathogenesis results in unique structural or functional deficits not seen with either disease alone. These considerations include, understanding the combined consequences of HIV-1 genetic variants, host variants, and μ-opioid receptor (MOR) and HIV chemokine co-receptor interactions on the comorbidity. Lastly, we present topics that need to be considered in the future to better understand the unique contributions of opioids to the pathophysiology of neuroHIV.

Graphical Abstract

Age-Dependent Heterogeneity of Murine Olfactory Bulb Astrocytes

Astrocytes have a high impact on the structure of the central nervous system, as they control neural activity, development, and plasticity. Heterogeneity of astrocytes has been shown before, but so far only a few studies have demonstrated heterogeneous morphology of astrocytes concerning aging. In this study, we examined morphologic differences of astrocyte subpopulations in adult mice and the progression of these differences with age. We surveyed astrocytes in olfactory bulb slices of mice aged 3 months, 1 year and 2 years (three animals each age group), based on their appearance in anti-GFAP immunostaining. Based on this data we established three different types of astrocytes: type I (stellate), type II (elliptic), and type III (squid-like). We found that with the advanced age of the mice, astrocytes grow in size and complexity. Major changes occurred between the ages of 3 months and 1 year, while between 1 and 2 years no significant development in cell size and complexity could be detected. Our results show that astrocytes in the olfactory bulb are heterogeneous and undergo morphological transformation until late adolescence but not upon senescence. Structural plasticity is further substantiated by the expression of vimentin in some astrocyte processes in all age groups.

Physiology of Astroglia

Astrocytes are neural cells of ectodermal, neuroepithelial origin that provide for homeostasis and defense of the central nervous system (CNS). Astrocytes are highly heterogeneous in morphological appearance; they express a multitude of receptors, channels, and membrane transporters. This complement underlies their remarkable adaptive plasticity that defines the functional maintenance of the CNS in development and aging. Astrocytes are tightly integrated into neural networks and act within the context of neural tissue; astrocytes control homeostasis of the CNS at all levels of organization from molecular to the whole organ.

Physiology of Astroglia

Astrocytes are neural cells of ectodermal, neuroepithelial origin that provide for homeostasis and defense of the central nervous system (CNS). Astrocytes are highly heterogeneous in morphological appearance; they express a multitude of receptors, channels, and membrane transporters. This complement underlies their remarkable adaptive plasticity that defines the functional maintenance of the CNS in development and aging. Astrocytes are tightly integrated into neural networks and act within the context of neural tissue; astrocytes control homeostasis of the CNS at all levels of organization from molecular to the whole organ.

Location and Number of Astrocytes Determine Dopaminergic Neuron Survival and Function Under 6-OHDA Stress Mediated Through Differential BDNF Release

While astrocytes throughout the CNS share many common traits, they exhibit significant differences in function and number among brain regions. The aim of the present study is to assess the effect of region-specificity and number of astrocytes on the survival of dopaminergic neurons under stress, and to understand the possible mechanism by which these astrocytes extend neuroprotection to dopaminergic neurons. Purified astrocytes obtained from forebrain, midbrain, and hindbrain region were characterized through FACS and immunofluorescence. Co-culture experiments (using trans-wells) were then performed to measure the effect of region-specificities and numbers of astrocytes on primary midbrain culture under 6-OHDA stress. Cell survival augmented with an increase in astrocyte seeding number and total cell survival was comparable among the different region-specific astrocytes for all numbers. However, striking differences were observed in dopaminergic neuronal (TH) cell survival in the presence of midbrain astrocytes in comparison to forebrain and hindbrain astrocytes at all seeding numbers. At 75 μM 6-OHDA insult, while cell survival was comparable in purified astrocytes from the different brain regions, a distinct increase in BDNF secretion (significantly higher than its constitutive release) was noted for midbrain astrocytes compared to forebrain and hindbrain astrocytes. The TH immunopositive population decreased when TrkB inhibitor was added to the co-culture under 6-OHDA toxicity, suggesting that BDNF released by co-cultured astrocytes plays a key role in the survival of dopaminergic neurons. This BDNF release decreased in presence of NO inhibitor and increased in the presence of NO donor (DETA/NO). We conclude that the BDNF released from astrocytes under 6-OHDA toxicity is mediated through NO release through both autocrine and paracrine signaling, and this BDNF release is primarily responsible for the differential effect of region-specific astrocytes on TH neuron survival under these conditions.

Dissecting carboxypeptidase E: properties, functions and pathophysiological roles in disease

Since discovery in 1982, carboxypeptidase E (CPE) has been shown to be involved in the biosynthesis of a wide range of neuropeptides and peptide hormones in endocrine tissues, and in the nervous system. This protein is produced from pro-CPE and exists in soluble and membrane forms. Membrane CPE mediates the targeting of prohormones to the regulated secretory pathway, while soluble CPE acts as an exopeptidase and cleaves C-terminal basic residues from peptide intermediates to generate bioactive peptides. CPE also participates in protein internalization, vesicle transport and regulation of signaling pathways. Therefore, in two types of CPE mutant mice, Cpe^fat/Cpe^fat and Cpe knockout, loss of normal CPE leads to a lot of disorders, including diabetes, hyperproinsulinemia, low bone mineral density and deficits in learning and memory. In addition, the potential roles of CPE and ΔN-CPE, an N-terminal truncated form, in tumorigenesis and diagnosis were also addressed. Herein, we focus on dissecting the pathophysiological roles of CPE in the endocrine and nervous systems, and related diseases.

Opiate Drugs with Abuse Liability Hijack the Endogenous Opioid System to Disrupt Neuronal and Glial Maturation in the Central Nervous System

The endogenous opioid system, comprised of multiple opioid neuropeptide and receptor gene families, is highly expressed by developing neural cells and can significantly influence neuronal and glial maturation. In many central nervous system (CNS) regions, the expression of opioid peptides and receptors occurs only transiently during development, effectively disappearing with subsequent maturation only to reemerge under pathologic conditions, such as with inflammation or injury. Opiate drugs with abuse liability act to modify growth and development by mimicking the actions of endogenous opioids. Although typically mediated by μ-opioid receptors, opiate drugs can also act through δ- and κ-opioid receptors to modulate growth in a cell-type, region-specific, and developmentally regulated manner. Opioids act as biological response modifiers and their actions are highly contextual, plastic, modifiable, and influenced by other physiological processes or pathophysiological conditions, such as neuro-acquired immunodeficiency syndrome. To date, most studies have considered the acute effects of opiates on cellular maturation. For example, activating opioid receptors typically results in acute growth inhibition in both neurons and glia. However, with sustained opioid exposure, compensatory factors become operative, a concept that has been largely overlooked during CNS maturation. Accordingly, this article surveys prior studies on the effects of opiates on CNS maturation, and also suggests new directions for future research in this area. Identifying the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying the adaptive responses to chronic opiate exposure (e.g., tolerance) during maturation is crucial toward understanding the consequences of perinatal opiate exposure on the CNS.

The Indispensable Roles of Microglia and Astrocytes during Brain Development

Glia are essential for brain functioning during development and in the adult brain. Here, we discuss the various roles of both microglia and astrocytes, and their interactions during brain development. Although both cells are fundamentally different in origin and function, they often affect the same developmental processes such as neuro-/gliogenesis, angiogenesis, axonal outgrowth, synaptogenesis and synaptic pruning. Due to their important instructive roles in these processes, dysfunction of microglia or astrocytes during brain development could contribute to neurodevelopmental disorders and potentially even late-onset neuropathology. A better understanding of the origin, differentiation process and developmental functions of microglia and astrocytes will help to fully appreciate their role both in the developing as well as in the adult brain, in health and disease.

Role of Astrocytes in Central Respiratory Chemoreception

Astrocytes perform various homeostatic functions in the nervous system beyond that of a supportive or metabolic role for neurons. A growing body of evidence indicates that astrocytes are crucial for central respiratory chemoreception. This review presents a classical overview of respiratory central chemoreception and the new evidence for astrocytes as brainstem sensors in the respiratory response to hypercapnia. We review properties of astrocytes for chemosensory function and for modulation of the respiratory network. We propose that astrocytes not only mediate between CO₂/H⁺ levels and motor responses, but they also allow for two emergent functions: (1) Amplifying the responses of intrinsic chemosensitive neurons through feedforward signaling via gliotransmitters and; (2) Recruiting non-intrinsically chemosensitive cells thanks to volume spreading of signals (calcium waves and gliotransmitters) to regions distant from the CO₂/H⁺ sensitive domains. Thus, astrocytes may both increase the intensity of the neuron responses at the chemosensitive sites and recruit of a greater number of respiratory neurons to participate in the response to hypercapnia.

Minocycline prevents dynorphin-induced neurotoxicity during neuropathic pain in rats

Despite many advances, our understanding of the involvement of prodynorphin systems in the development of neuropathic pain is not fully understood. Recent studies suggest an important role of neuro-glial interactions in the dynorphin effects associated with neuropathic pain conditions. Our studies show that minocycline reduced prodynorphin mRNA levels that were previously elevated in the spinal and/or dorsal root ganglia (DRG) following sciatic nerve injury. The repeated intrathecal administration of minocycline enhanced the analgesic effects of low-dose dynorphin (0.15 nmol) and U50,488H (25-100 nmol) and prevented the development of flaccid paralysis following high-dose dynorphin administration (15 nmol), suggesting a neuroprotective effect. Minocycline reverts the expression of IL-1β and IL-6 mRNA within the spinal cord and IL-1β mRNA in DRG, which was elevated following intrathecal administration of dynorphin (15 nmol). These results suggest an important role of these proinflammatory cytokines in the development of the neurotoxic effects of dynorphin. Similar to minocycline, a selective inhibitor of MMP-9 (MMP-9 levels are reduced by minocycline) exerts an analgesic effect in behavioral studies, and its administration prevents the occurrence of flaccid paralysis caused by high-dose dynorphin administration (15 nmol). In conclusion, our results underline the importance of neuro-glial interactions as evidenced by the involvement of IL-1β and IL-6 and the minocycline effect in dynorphin-induced toxicity, which suggests that drugs that alter the prodynorphin system could be used to better control neuropathic pain.

Interactions of HIV and drugs of abuse: the importance of glia, neural progenitors, and host genetic factors

Considerable insight has been gained into the comorbid, interactive effects of HIV and drug abuse in the brain using experimental models. This review, which considers opiates, methamphetamine, and cocaine, emphasizes the importance of host genetics and glial plasticity in driving the pathogenic neuron remodeling underlying neuro-acquired immunodeficiency syndrome and drug abuse comorbidity. Clinical findings are less concordant than experimental work, and the response of individuals to HIV and to drug abuse can vary tremendously. Host-genetic variability is important in determining viral tropism, neuropathogenesis, drug responses, and addictive behavior. However, genetic differences alone cannot account for individual variability in the brain "connectome." Environment and experience are critical determinants in the evolution of synaptic circuitry throughout life. Neurons and glia both exercise control over determinants of synaptic plasticity that are disrupted by HIV and drug abuse. Perivascular macrophages, microglia, and to a lesser extent astroglia can harbor the infection. Uninfected bystanders, especially astroglia, propagate and amplify inflammatory signals. Drug abuse by itself derails neuronal and glial function, and the outcome of chronic exposure is maladaptive plasticity. The negative consequences of coexposure to HIV and drug abuse are determined by numerous factors including genetics, sex, age, and multidrug exposure. Glia and some neurons are generated throughout life, and their progenitors appear to be targets of HIV and opiates/psychostimulants. The chronic nature of HIV and drug abuse appears to result in sustained alterations in the maturation and fate of neural progenitors, which may affect the balance of glial populations within multiple brain regions.

Spinal astrocytes produce and secrete dynorphin neuropeptides

Dynorphin peptide neurotransmitters (neuropeptides) have been implicated in spinal pain processing based on the observations that intrathecal delivery of dynorphin results in proalgesic effects and disruption of extracellular dynorphin activity (by antisera) prevents injury evoked hyperalgesia. However, the cellular source of secreted spinal dynorphin has been unknown. For this reason, this study investigated the expression and secretion of dynorphin-related neuropeptides from spinal astrocytes (rat) in primary culture. Dynorphin A (1-17), dynorphin B, and α-neoendorphin were found to be present in the astrocytes, illustrated by immunofluorescence confocal microscopy, in a discrete punctate pattern of cellular localization. Measurement of astrocyte cellular levels of these dynorphins by radioimmunoassays confirmed the expression of these three dynorphin-related neuropeptides. Notably, BzATP (3'-O-(4-benzoyl)benzoyl adenosine 5'-triphosphate) and KLA (di[3-deoxy-D-manno-octulosonyl]-lipid A) activation of purinergic and toll-like receptors, respectively, resulted in stimulated secretion of dynorphins A and B. However, α-neoendorphin secretion was not affected by BzATP or KLA. These findings suggest that dynorphins A and B undergo regulated secretion from spinal astrocytes. These findings also suggest that spinal astrocytes may provide secreted dynorphins that participate in spinal pain processing.

Peptidomic analyses of mouse astrocytic cell lines and rat primary cultured astrocytes

Astrocytes play an active role in the modulation of synaptic transmission by releasing cell-cell signaling molecules in response to various stimuli that evoke a Ca2+ increase. We expand on recent studies of astrocyte intracellular and secreted proteins by examining the astrocyte peptidome in mouse astrocytic cell lines and rat primary cultured astrocytes, as well as those peptides secreted from mouse astrocytic cell lines in response to Ca2+-dependent stimulations. We identified 57 peptides derived from 24 proteins with LC-MS/MS and CE-MS/MS in the astrocytes. Among the secreted peptides, four peptides derived from elongation factor 1, macrophage migration inhibitory factor, peroxiredoxin-5, and galectin-1 were putatively identified by mass-matching to peptides confirmed to be found in astrocytes. Other peptides in the secretion study were mass-matched to those found in prior peptidomics analyses on mouse brain tissue. Complex peptide profiles were observed after stimulation, suggesting that astrocytes are actively involved in peptide secretion. Twenty-six peptides were observed in multiple stimulation experiments but not in controls and thus appear to be released in a Ca2+-dependent manner. These results can be used in future investigations to better understand stimulus-dependent mechanisms of astrocyte peptide secretion.

Opiate drug use and the pathophysiology of neuroAIDS

Opiate abuse and HIV-1 have been described as interrelated epidemics, and even in the advent of combined anti-retroviral therapy, the additional abuse of opiates appears to result in greater neurologic and cognitive deficits. The central nervous system (CNS) is particularly vulnerable to interactive opiate-HIV-1 effects, in part because of the unique responses of microglia and astroglia. Although neurons are principally responsible for behavior and cognition, HIV-1 infection and replication in the brain is largely limited to microglia, while astroglia and perhaps glial progenitors can be latently infected. Thus, neuronal dysfunction and injury result from cellular and viral toxins originating from HIV-1 infected/exposed glia. Importantly, subsets of glial cells including oligodendrocytes, as well as neurons, express µ-opioid receptors and therefore can be direct targets for heroin and morphine (the major metabolite of heroin in the CNS), which preferentially activate µ-opioid receptors. This review highlights findings that neuroAIDS is a glially driven disease, and that opiate abuse may act at multiple glial-cell types to further compromise neuron function and survival. The ongoing, reactive cross-talk between opiate drug and HIV-1 co-exposed microglia and astroglia appears to exacerbate critical proinflammatory and excitotoxic events leading to neuron dysfunction, injury, and potentially death. Opiates enhance synaptodendritic damage and a loss of synaptic connectivity, which is viewed as the substrate of cognitive deficits. We especially emphasize that opioid signaling and interactions with HIV-1 are contextual, differing among cell types, and even within subsets of the same cell type. For example, astroglia even within a single brain region are heterogeneous in their expression of µ-, δ-, and κ-opioid receptors, as well as CXCR4 and CCR5, and Toll-like receptors. Thus, defining the distinct targets engaged by opiates in each cell type, and among brain regions, is critical to an understanding of how opiate abuse exacerbates neuroAIDS.

Purkinje cells loss in off spring due to maternal morphine sulfate exposure: a morphometric study

The toxic effects of morphine sulfate in the adult cerebral cortex and one-day neonatal cerebellum have been studied. This study was carried out to evaluate the effect of maternal morphine exposure during gestational and lactation period on the Purkinje cells and cerebellar cortical layer in 18- and 32-day-old mice offspring. Thirty female mice were randomly allocated into cases and controls. In cases, animals received morphine sulfate (10 mg/kg/body weight intraperitoneally) during the 7 days before mating, gestational day (GD 0-21) 18 or 32. The controls received an equivalent volume of saline. The cerebellum of six infants for each group was removed and each was stained with cresyl violet. Quantitative computer-assisted morphometric study was done on cerebellar cortex. The linear Purkinje cell density in both experimental groups (postnatal day [P]18, 23.40±0.5; P32, 23.45±1.4) were significantly reduced in comparison with the control groups (P18, 28.70±0.9; P32, 28.95±0.4) (P<0.05). Purkinje cell area, perimeter and diameter at apex and depth of simple lobules in the experimental groups were significantly reduced compared to the controls (P<0.05). The thickness of the Purkinje layer of the cerebellar cortex was significantly reduced in morphine treated groups (P<0.05). This study reveals that morphine administration before pregnancy, during pregnancy and during the lactation period causes Purkinje cells loss and Purkinje cell size reduction in 18- and 32-day-old infant mice.

Activation of NPY type 5 receptors induces a long-lasting increase in spontaneous GABA release from cerebellar inhibitory interneurons

Neuropeptide Y (NPY), a widely distributed neuropeptide in the central nervous system, can transiently suppress inhibitory synaptic transmission and alter membrane excitability via Y2 and Y1 receptors (Y2rs and Y1rs), respectively. Although many GABAergic neurons express Y5rs, the functional role of these receptors in inhibitory neurons is not known. Here, we investigated whether activation of Y5rs can modulate inhibitory transmission in cerebellar slices. Unexpectedly, application of NPY triggered a long-lasting increase in the frequency of miniature inhibitory postsynaptic currents in stellate cells. NPY also induced a sustained increase in spontaneous GABA release in cultured cerebellar neurons. When cerebellar cultures were examined for Y5r immunoreactivity, the staining colocalized with that of VGAT, a presynaptic marker for GABAergic cells, suggesting that Y5rs are located in the presynaptic terminals of inhibitory neurons. RT-PCR experiments confirmed the presence of Y5r mRNA in the cerebellum. The NPY-induced potentiation of GABA release was blocked by Y5r antagonists and mimicked by application of a selective peptide agonist for Y5r. Thus Y5r activation is necessary and sufficient to trigger an increase in GABA release. Finally, the potentiation of inhibitory transmission could not be reversed by a Y5r antagonist once it was initiated, consistent with the development of a long-term potentiation. These results indicate that activation of presynaptic Y5rs induces a sustained increase in spontaneous GABA release from inhibitory neurons in contrast to the transient suppression of inhibitory transmission that is characteristic of Y1r and Y2r activation. Our findings thus reveal a novel role of presynaptic Y5rs in inhibitory interneurons in regulating GABA release and suggest that these receptors could play a role in shaping neuronal network activity in the cerebellum.

Morphine and gp120 toxic interactions in striatal neurons are dependent on HIV-1 strain

A rigorously controlled, cell culture paradigm was used to assess the role of HIV-1 gp120 ± morphine in mediating opioid-HIV interactive toxicity in striatal neurons. Computerized time-lapse microscopy tracked the fate of individual neurons co-cultured with mixed-glia from mouse striata during opioid and gp120 exposure. Subpopulations of neurons and astroglia displayed μ-opioid receptor, CXCR4, and CCR5 immunoreactivity. While gp120 alone was or tended to be neurotoxic irrespective of whether X4-tropic gp120(IIIB), R5-tropic gp120(ADA), or dual-tropic gp120(MN) was administered, interactive toxicity with morphine differed depending on HIV-1 strain. For example, morphine only transiently exacerbated gp120(IIIB)-induced neuronal death; however, in combination with gp120(MN), morphine caused sustained increases in the rate of neuronal death compared to gp120(MN) alone that were prevented by naloxone. Alternatively, gp120(ADA) significantly increased the rate of neuron death, but gp120(ADA) toxicity was unaffected by morphine. The transient neurotoxic interactions between morphine and gp120(IIIB) were abrogated in the absence of glia suggesting that glia contribute significantly to the interactive pathology with chronic opiate abuse and neuroAIDS. To assess how mixed-glia might contribute to the neurotoxicity, the effects of morphine and/or gp120 on the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and on glutamate buffering were examined. All gp120 variants, and to a lesser extent morphine, increased ROS and/or decreased glutamate buffering, but together failed to show any interaction with morphine. Our findings indicate that HIV-1 strain-specific differences in gp120 are critical determinants in shaping both the timing and pattern of neurotoxic interactions with opioid drugs.

The role of nociceptin and dynorphin in chronic pain: implications of neuro-glial interaction

Nociceptin-opioid peptide (NOP) receptor, also known as opioid receptor like-1 (ORL1), was identified following the cloning of the kappa-opioid peptide (KOP) receptor, and the characterization of these receptors revealed high homology. The endogenous ligand of NOP, nociceptin (NOC), which shares high homology to dynorphin (DYN), was discovered shortly thereafter, and since then, it has been the subject of several investigations. Despite the many advances in our understanding of the involvement of NOC and DYN systems in pain, tolerance and withdrawal, the precise function of these systems has not been fully characterized. Here, we review the recent literature concerning the distribution of the NOC and DYN systems in the central nervous system and the involvement of these systems in nociceptive transmission, especially under chronic pain conditions. We discuss the use of endogenous and exogenous ligands of NOP and KOP receptors in pain perception, as well as the potential utility of NOP ligands in clinical practice for pain management. We also discuss the modulation of opioid effects by NOC and DYN. We emphasize the important role of neuro-glial interactions in the effects of NOC and DYN, focusing on their presence in neuronal and non-neuronal cells and the changes associated with chronic pain conditions. We also present the dynamics of immune and glial regulation of neuronal functions and the importance of this regulation in the roles of NOC and DYN under conditions of neuropathic pain and in the use of drugs that alter these systems for better control of neuropathic pain.

Morphology and properties of astrocytes

Astrocytes were identified about 150 years ago, and, for the longest time, were considered to be supporting cells in the brain providing trophic, metabolic, and structural support for neural networks. Research in the last 2 decades has uncovered many novel molecules in astrocytes and the finding that astrocytes communicate with neurons via Ca2+ signaling, which leads to release of chemical transmitters, termed gliotransmitters, has led to renewed interest in their biology. This chapter will briefly review the unique morphology and molecular properties of astrocytes. The reader will be introduced to the role of astrocytes in blood-brain barrier (BBB) maintenance, in Ca2+ signaling, in synaptic transmission, in CNS synaptogenesis, and as neural progenitor cells. Mention is also made of the diseases in which astrocyte dysfunction has a role.

Regional heterogeneity and diversity in cytokine and chemokine production by astroglia: differential responses to HIV-1 Tat, gp120, and morphine revealed by multiplex analysis

HIV-infected individuals who abuse opiates show a faster progression to AIDS and higher incidence of encephalitis. The HIV-1 proteins Tat and gp120 have been shown to cause neurodegenerative changes either in vitro or when injected or expressed in the CNS, and we have shown that opiate drugs can exacerbate neurotoxic effects in the striatum through direct actions on pharmacologically discrete subpopulations of mu-opioid receptor-expressing astroglia. Opiate coexposure also significantly enhances release of specific inflammatory mediators by astroglia from the striatum, and we theorize that astroglial reactivity may underlie aspects of HIV neuropathology. To determine whether astroglia from different regions of the central nervous system have distinct, intrinsic responses to HIV-1 proteins and opiates, we used multiplex suspension array analyses to define and compare the inflammatory signature of cytokines released by murine astrocytes grown from cerebral cortex, cerebellum, and spinal cord. Results demonstrate significant regional differences in baseline secretion patterns, and in responses to viral proteins. Of importance for the disease process, astrocytes from all regions have very limited inflammatory response to gp120 protein, as compared to Tat protein, either in the presence or absence of morphine. Overall, the chemokine/cytokine release is higher from spinal cord and cortical astroglia than from cerebellar astroglia, paralleling the relatively low incidence of HIV-related neuropathology in the cerebellum.

Trafficking and fusion of neuropeptide Y-containing dense-core granules in astrocytes

It is becoming clear that astrocytes are active participants in synaptic functioning and exhibit properties, such as the secretion of classical transmitters, previously thought to be exclusively neuronal. Whether these similarities extend to the release of neuropeptides, the other major class of transmitters, is less clear. Here we show that cortical astrocytes can synthesize both native and foreign neuropeptides and can secrete them in a stimulation-dependent manner. Reverse transcription-PCR and mass spectrometry indicate that cortical astrocytes contain neuropeptide Y (NPY), a widespread neuronal transmitter. Immunocytochemical studies reveal NPY-immunoreactive (IR) puncta that colocalize with markers of the regulated secretory pathway. These NPY-IR puncta are distinct from the synaptic-like vesicles that contain classical transmitters, and the two types of organelles are differentially distributed. After activation of metabotropic glutamate receptors and the release of calcium from intracellular stores, the NPY-IR puncta fuse with the cell membrane, and the peptide-containing dense cores are displayed. To determine whether peptide secretion subsequently occurred, exocytosis was monitored from astrocytes expressing NPY-red fluorescent protein (RFP). In live cells, after activation of glutamate receptors, the intensity of the NPY-RFP-labeled puncta declined in a step-like manner indicating a regulated release of the granular contents. Because NPY is a widespread and potent regulator of synaptic transmission, these results suggest that astrocytes could play a role in the peptidergic modulation of synaptic signaling in the CNS.

Congenital viral infections of the brain: lessons learned from lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus in the neonatal rat

The fetal brain is highly vulnerable to teratogens, including many infectious agents. As a consequence of prenatal infection, many children suffer severe and permanent brain injury and dysfunction. Because most animal models of congenital brain infection do not strongly mirror human disease, the models are highly limited in their abilities to shed light on the pathogenesis of these diseases. The animal model for congenital lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV) infection, however, does not suffer from this limitation. LCMV is a well-known human pathogen. When the infection occurs during pregnancy, the virus can infect the fetus, and the developing brain is particularly vulnerable. Children with congenital LCMV infection often have substantial neurological deficits. The neonatal rat inoculated with LCMV is a superb model system of human congenital LCMV infection. Virtually all of the neuropathologic changes observed in humans congenitally infected with LCMV, including microencephaly, encephalomalacia, chorioretinitis, porencephalic cysts, neuronal migration disturbances, periventricular infection, and cerebellar hypoplasia, are reproduced in the rat model. Within the developing rat brain, LCMV selectively targets mitotically active neuronal precursors. Thus, the targets of infection and sites of pathology depend on host age at the time of infection. The rat model has further shown that the pathogenic changes induced by LCMV infection are both virus-mediated and immune-mediated. Furthermore, different brain regions simultaneously infected with LCMV can undergo widely different pathologic changes, reflecting different brain region-virus-immune system interactions. Because the neonatal rat inoculated with LCMV so faithfully reproduces the diverse neuropathology observed in the human counterpart, the rat model system is a highly valuable tool for the study of congenital LCMV infection and of all prenatal brain infections In addition, because LCMV induces delayed-onset neuronal loss after the virus has been cleared, the neonatal rat infected with LCMV may be an excellent model system to study neurodegenerative or psychiatric diseases whose etiologies are hypothesized to be virus-induced, such as autism, schizophrenia, and temporal lobe epilepsy.

Caspase-3 activity is reduced after spinal cord injury in mice lacking dynorphin: differential effects on glia and neurons

Dynorphins are endogenous opioid peptide products of the prodynorphin gene. An extensive literature suggests that dynorphins have deleterious effects on CNS injury outcome. We thus examined whether a deficiency of dynorphin would protect against tissue damage after spinal cord injury (SCI), and if individual cell types would be specifically affected. Wild-type and prodynorphin(-/-) mice received a moderate contusion injury at 10th thoracic vertebrae (T10). Caspase-3 activity at the injury site was significantly decreased in tissue homogenates from prodynorphin(-/-) mice after 4 h. We examined frozen sections at 4 h post-injury by immunostaining for active caspase-3. At 3-4 mm rostral or caudal to the injury, >90% of all neurons, astrocytes and oligodendrocytes expressed active caspase-3 in both wild-type and knockout mice. At 6-7 mm, there were fewer caspase-3(+) oligodendrocytes and astrocytes than at 3-4 mm. Importantly, caspase-3 activation was significantly lower in prodynorphin(-/-) oligodendrocytes and astrocytes, as compared with wild-type mice. In contrast, while caspase-3 expression in neurons also declined with further distance from the injury, there was no effect of genotype. Radioimmunoassay showed that dynorphin A(1-17) was regionally increased in wild-type injured versus sham-injured tissues, although levels of the prodynorphin processing product Arg(6)-Leu-enkephalin were unchanged. Our results indicate that dynorphin peptides affect the extent of post-injury caspase-3 activation, and that glia are especially sensitive to these effects. By promoting caspase-3 activation, dynorphin peptides likely increase the probability of glial apoptosis after SCI. While normally beneficial, our findings suggest that prodynorphin or its peptide products become maladaptive following SCI and contribute to secondary injury.

Glia mechanisms in mood regulation: a novel model of mood disorders

INTRODUCTION

Recent evidence in clinical and preclinical studies has implicated glutamate neurotransmissions in pathophysiology of mood disorders. The regulation of amino acid neurotransmission, i.e., glutamate and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) involves coordinated mechanisms of uptake and transport within a tripartite synaptic system that includes neurons and glia. Newly appreciated role of the glia, more specifically astrocytes on neuronal functions combined with reported postmortem abnormalities of glia in patients with mood disorders further supports the role of glia in mood disorders.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This report presents some of our preliminary results utilizing glia-selective toxins and other pharmacological tools to suppress glial function within the limbic system to study the resulting behavioral abnormalities, and thus, elucidate glial involvement in the development of mood disorders.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

We demonstrate that chronic blockade of glutamate uptake by a glial/neuronal transporter antagonist L-trans-pyrrolidine-2,4-dicarboxylic acid (PDC) within the amygdala, a key area implicated in mood regulation, results in dose-dependent reduction in social exploratory behavior and disrupts circadian activity patterns consistent with symptoms of mood disorders. Similarly, the selective astrocytic glutamate transporter type 1 (GLT-1) blocker dihydrokainic acid (DHK) injected into the amygdala also results in reduced social interaction that is blocked by selective glutamate N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) type receptor antagonist AP5. The results are discussed in the context of glial and glutamate mechanisms in mood disorders and potential therapeutic avenues to address these mechanisms.

Increase by FK960, a novel cognitive enhancer, in glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor production in cultured rat astrocytes

We examined the effect of N-(4-acetyl-1-piperazinyl)-p-fluorobenzamide monohydrate (FK960), a novel anti-dementia drug, on neurotrophic factor production in cultured rat astrocytes. FK960 (100nM) increased mRNA and protein levels of glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF). FK960 did not affect mRNA levels of neurotrophic factors other than GDNF. The effect of FK960 was not affected by antagonists of dopamine and alpha7-nicotinic acetylcholine receptors. FK960 stimulated phosphorylation of mitogen-activated protein/extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) without any effect on phosphoryolation of p38 and c-Jun N-terminal kinase. FK960 increased the levels of c-Fos and phosphorylation of cAMP responsive element binding protein (CREB). The effect of FK960 on c-Fos was inhibited by PD98059 (10microM), an ERK kinase inhibitor, and cycloheximide (1microg/ml), a transcription inhibitor, and the effect of FK960 on CREB phosphorylation was blocked by PD98059. The effect of FK960 on GDNF mRNA expression was attenuated by PD98059, curcumin (10microM), an activator protein-1 inhibitor, cycloheximide and actinomycin D (10microg/ml). These results suggest that FK960 stimulates GDNF production in c-Fos- and CREB-dependent mechanisms in cultured astrocytes and that ERK signal is responsible for both c-Fos expression and CREB phosphorylation in the cascades.

‘Neuro’-peptides in glia: Focus on NPY and galanin

The term neuropeptide was advanced by de Wied and collaborators in the early seventies. At that time, they defined neuropeptides as endogenous substances synthesized in nerve cells and involved in nervous system functions. Since then, several studies have revealed that the very same 'neuropeptides' are also expressed in non-neuronal cells. It is therefore generally accepted that the original definition of these peptides was too limited and, consequently, it has recently been revised. Among the non-neuronal cells that synthesize neuropeptides are several glial cell types.

Selective vulnerability of cerebellar granule neuroblasts and their progeny to drugs with abuse liability

Cerebellar development is shaped by the interplay of genetic and numerous environmental factors. Recent evidence suggests that cerebellar maturation is acutely sensitive to substances with abuse liability including alcohol, opioids, and nicotine. Assuming substance abuse disrupts cerebellar maturation, a central question is: what are the basic mechanisms underlying potential drug-induced developmental defects? Evidence reviewed herein suggests that the maturation of granule neurons and their progeny are intrinsically affected by several classes of substances with abuse liability. Although drug abuse is also likely to target directly other cerebellar neuron and glial types, such as Purkinje cells and Bergmann glia, findings in isolated granule neurons suggest that they are often the principle target for drug actions. Developmental events that are selectively disrupted by drug abuse in granule neurons and/or their neuroblast precursors include proliferation, migration, differentiation (including neurite elaboration and synapse formation), and programmed cell death. Moreover, different classes of drugs act through distinct molecular mechanisms thereby disrupting unique aspects of development. For example, drug-induced perturbations in: (i) neurotransmitter biogenesis; (ii) ligand and ion-gated receptor function and their coupling to intracellular effectors; (iii) neurotrophic factor biogenesis and signaling; and (iv) intercellular adhesion are all likely to have significant effects in shaping developmental outcome. In addition to identifying therapeutic strategies for drug abuse intervention, understanding the mechanisms by which drugs affect cellular maturation is likely to provide a better understanding of the neurochemical events that normally shape central nervous system development.

Evidence for astrocyte heterogeneity: a distinct subpopulation of protoplasmic-like glial cells is detected in transgenic mice expressing Lmo1-lacZ

The adult mammalian central nervous system (CNS) contains a large number of different cell types, which arise from the ventricular (VZ) and subventricular zones during embryonic development. In this study, we used a transgenic mouse expressing Lmo1-LacZ from a randomly inserted promoter/reporter gene construct to identify a glial subpopulation. LMO1 is an LIM domain-containing protein, thought to act in protein-protein interactions. We found first that in the adult transgenic CNS, beta-galactosidase (beta-gal) was expressed in a specific subpopulation of protoplasmic-like cells, which did not express detectable levels of glial fibrilary acidic protein unless a lesion was produced. Secondly, during development, beta-gal(+) cells were found arising from discrete regions of the VZ. Taken together, these results identify a subpopulation of protoplasmic glial cells in the adult CNS and suggest that they arise from a restricted VZ region during CNS development.

Structure and expression of the glycine cleavage system in rat central nervous system

The glycine cleavage system (GCS) is a mitochondrial multienzyme system consisting of four individual proteins, three specific components (P-, T-, and H-proteins) and one house-keeping enzyme, dihydrolipoamide dehydrogenase. Inherited deficiency of the GCS causes nonketotic hyperglycinemia (NKH), an inborn error of glycine metabolism. NKH is characterized by massive accumulation of glycine in serum and cerebrospinal fluids and severe neuronal dysfunction in neonates. To elucidate the neuropathogenesis of NKH, we cloned cDNAs encoding three specific components of the GCS and studied the gene expression in rat central nervous system. P-, T-, and H-protein cDNAs encoded 1024, 403, and 170 amino acids, respectively. In situ hybridization analysis revealed that P-protein mRNA was expressed mainly in glial-like cells, including Bergmann glias in the cerebellum, while T- and H-protein mRNAs were detected in both glial-like cells and neurons. T- and H-protein mRNAs, but not P-protein mRNA, were expressed in the spinal cord. Primary astrocyte cultures established from cerebral cortex had higher GCS activities than hepatocytes whereas those from spinal cord expressed only H-protein mRNA and had no enzymatic activity. An important role of glycine as inhibitory neurotransmitter has been established in the brainstem and spinal cord and another role of glycine as an excitation modulator of N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor is suggested in the hippocampus, cerebral cortex, olfactory bulbus, and cerebellum. Our results suggest that the GCS plays a major role in the forebrain and cerebellum rather than in the spinal cord, and that N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor may participate in neuropathogenesis of NKH.

Oxidative stress induces proorphanin FQ and proenkephalin gene expression in astrocytes through p38- and ERK-MAP kinases and NF-kappaB

Oxidative stress has been implicated in the pathogenesis of stroke, traumatic brain injuries, and neurodegenerative diseases affecting both neuronal and glial cells in the CNS. In this study we have demonstrated that reactive oxygen species (ROS) dramatically induce the expression of two neuropeptide genes, the opioid proenkephalin (pENK) and the opioid-related proorphanin FQ (pOFQ; also known as pronociceptin) in primary astrocytes. Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) treatment dose-dependently increased pENK and pOFQ mRNA levels with a maximal effect ( approximately 15-fold increase) being detected at 50 microM concentration. Exposing the astrocyte cultures to hypoxia and subsequent re-oxygenation also led to a profound elevation of pOFQ and pENK mRNA levels. Western blot analysis and immunocytochemistry revealed that H2O2 treatment elicited the phosphorylation and nuclear translocation of ERK 1/2 and p38 MAP kinases. Blockade of the p38 or the ERK MAP kinase pathways (by SB202190 and PD98059, respectively) prevented the H2O2-induced increase in pENK and pOFQ mRNA levels indicating a central role for these cascades in the regulation of pOFQ and pENK genes in response to oxidative stress. Regulation of pOFQ and pENK gene expression by ERK and p38 activation may be mediated through the transcription factor cAMP-response element binding protein (CREB). We observed CREB phosphorylation in response to H2O2, which was also prevented by SB202190 and PD98059. The nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-kappaB) pathway appears to be involved exclusively in the induction of pOFQ transcription by H2O2, as NF-kappaB inhibitors antagonized the effect of oxidative stress on pOFQ, but not on pENK expression. The profound induction of these genes by oxidative stress and these other factors may suggest a role for orphanin FQ and enkephalin in injury and stress responses of the CNS and neuropathophysiological conditions involving reactive oxygen species.

Endogenous opioids and oligodendroglial function: possible autocrine/paracrine effects on cell survival and development

Previous work has shown that oligodendrocytes (OLs) express both micro- and kappa-opioid receptors. In developing OLs, micro receptor activation increases OL proliferation, while the kappa-antagonist nor-binaltorphimine (NorBNI) affects OL differentiation. Because exogenous opioids were not present in our defined culture medium, we hypothesized that NorBNI blocked endogenous opioids produced by the OLs themselves. To test this, intact and partially processed proenkephalin and prodynorphin-derived peptides were assessed in OLs using immunocytochemistry or Western blot analysis, or both. Immature OLs possessed large amounts of intact and partially processed proenkephalin precursors, as well as posttranslational products of prodynorphin including dynorphin A (1-17). With maturation, however, intact or partially processed proenkephalin was expressed by only about 50% of OLs, while dynorphin A (1-17) was undetectable. To assess the function of OL-derived opioids, the effect of kappa-agonists/antagonists on OL differentiation and death was explored. kappa-Agonists alone had no effect. In contrast, NorBNI significantly increased OL death. Additive OL losses were evident when NorBNI was paired with toxic levels of glutamate, suggesting that kappa-receptor blockade alone is sufficient to induce OL death. Thus, the results indicate that OLs express proenkephalin and prodynorphin peptides in a developmentally regulated manner, and further suggest that opioids produced by OLs modulate OL maturation and survival through local (i.e., autocrine and/or paracrine) mechanisms.

Expression of messenger RNAs for glutamic acid decarboxylase, preprotachykinin, cholecystokinin, somatostatin, proenkephalin and neuropeptide Y in the adult rat superior colliculus

The mammalian superior colliculus is an important subcortical integrator of sensorimotor behaviours. It is multi-layered, each layer containing specific neuronal types and possessing distinct input/output relationships. Here we use in situ hybridisation methods to map the distribution of seven neurotransmitters/neuromodulator systems in adult rat superior colliculus. Coronal sections were probed for preprotachykinin, cholecystokinin, somatostatin, proenkephalin, neuropeptide Y and the enzymes glutamic acid decarboxylase and choline acetyltransferase, markers for GABA and acetylcholine respectively. Cells expressing glutamic acid decarboxylase messenger RNA were the most abundant, the highest density being found in the superficial layers. Many cells containing proprotachykinin messenger RNA were found in stratum zonale and the upper two-thirds of stratum griseum superficiale; cells were also located in deeper tectal laminae, particularly caudomedially. Most cholecystokinin messenger RNA expressing cells were located in the superficial layers with a prominent band in the middle third of stratum griseum superficiale. Cells expressing moderate to high levels of somatostatin messenger RNA formed a dense band in the lower third of stratum griseum superficiale/upper stratum opticum; two less distinct tiers of labelling were seen in deeper layers. These in situ hybridisation data reveal three distinct sub-laminae in rat stratum griseum superficiale. Cells expressing moderate to low levels of proenkephalin messenger RNA were located in lower stratum griseum superficiale/upper stratum opticum and intermediate laminae. A cluster of enkephalinergic cells was located medially in the deep tectal laminae. Expression of neuropeptide Y messenger RNA was relatively low and mostly confined to cells in stratum griseum superficiale and stratum opticum. No choline acetyltransferase messenger RNA was detected. This in situ analysis of seven different neurotransmitters/neuromodulator systems sheds new light on the neurochemical organisation of the rat superior colliculus. The data are related to what is known anatomically and physiologically about intrinsic and extrinsic tectal circuitry, and the potential involvement of different neuropeptides in these circuits is discussed. The work forms the basis for future developmental studies examining the effects of transplantation and visual deprivation/deafferentation on tectal neurochemistry and function.

Vasoactive intestinal polypeptide in neuroglia? Immunoelectron microscopic localization in astrocytes of the rat mesencephalon

The dorsal region of the rat interpeduncular nucleus (IPN) was found highly immunoreactive for vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP). This area appeared as a cap-like structure at the midcaudal level of the nucleus. Unlike other brain areas, however, VIP immunoreactivity within the "cap" appeared vaguely punctuate with no light microscopically identifiable cell structures. Ultrastructurally, a dense meshwork of VIP-immunopositive bouton-laden axons was revealed. Labeled neuronal perikarya were not encountered. Some lightly immunoreactive dendrites were observed. In addition, immunopositive glial profiles were frequently seen. Perikarya and numerous fine processes, occasionally perivascular, identified as astroglia by established ultrastructural criteria, exhibited VIP immunoreactivity. Constant feature of the peptide immunolocalization was the predilection for the intermediate filament bundles of astrocytic perikarya and processes. This was usually accompanied by a thick coating of the inner aspect of glial plasmalemma and, in perikarya, by highly reactive vesicular profiles. Glial immunopositive elements were never seen beyond the boundaries of the diffuse "cap." In view of the repertoire of metabolic, neurotrophic, and neuroprotective mechanisms in which VIP neurons are involved in conjunction with astroglia, the presence of VIP-immunoreactive astrocytes in a circumscribed area, confirms the heterogeneity of astrocyte populations.

The comparative analysis of proenkephalin mRNA expression induced by cholera toxin and pertussis toxin in primary cultured rat cortical astrocytes

In rat astrocytes, incubation with cholera toxin (CTX; 0.1 microg/ml) for 8 h increased proenkephalin (proENK) mRNA level (10-fold), which was further increased by dexamethasone (DEX; 1 microM) (2.2-fold as much as CTX alone). Although pertussis toxin (PTX; 0.1 microg/ml) did not affect the basal proENK mRNA level, DEX significantly increased proENK mRNA level in PTX-treated cells (6-fold). The inhibition of protein synthesis by cycloheximide (CHX; 15 microM) also increased proENK mRNA level in PTX-treated cells (5.2-fold), but not in CTX-stimulated cells. The treatment with CTX, but not PTX, increased c-Fos and Fra-2 protein levels as well as AP-1, CRE, or ENKCRE-2 DNA binding activity, but neither toxin affected Fra-1, c-Jun, JunB, and JunD protein levels. CHX significantly attenuated CTX-induced increase of c-Fos or Fra-2 protein level and AP-1, CRE, or ENKCRE-2 DNA binding activity, although CHX alone did not affect the basal AP-1, CRE, and ENKCRE-2 DNA binding activities. Phosphorylated CREB level was increased by both CTX and PTX, although the magnitude of phosphorylation of CREB by PTX was much less than that by CTX. In addition, CHX further or persistently increased PTX- or CTX-induced phosphorylated CREB levels in parallel with increases in proENK mRNA. However, DEX did not alter the basal or stimulated phosphorylated-CREB level. These results suggest that the elevation of phosphorylation of CREB rather than AP-1 level may be involved in CTX-induced and CHX-dependent-PTX-induced increase of proENK mRNA level. In addition, AP-1 expression or CREB phosphorylation appears not to be involved the potentiative action of DEX on proENK mRNA expression in CTX- and PTX-treated astrocytes.

Identification of an opioid peptide secreted by rat embryonic mixed brain cells as a promoter of macrophage migration

Conditioned media from embryonic mixed cells from the rat brain were used in a chemotaxis assay to look for potential chemotactic activity which could account for the infiltration of the developing central nervous system (CNS) by macrophage precursors. The most potent chemotactic activity was found in the conditioned medium from E17 mixed brain cells (E17-CM). Based upon checkerboard analysis, this activity was shown to be chemotactic rather than chemokinetic. This chemoattraction was not restricted to brain macrophages (BM) because it was as pronounced on bone marrow-derived macrophages. The implication of a peptide compound in this activity was suggested by its resistance to heat as well as acid treatments, and by its sensitivity to aminopeptidase M digestion. In agreement with the opioid nature of the peptide, not only naloxone, but also the delta opioid receptor antagonist ICI-174 reduced the migration of BM in response to E17-CM by 60%. This migratory activity was no longer effective when pertussis toxin-treated BM were used. When the chemotactic effects of selective opioid agonists were compared to that of E17-CM, DPDPE, the delta agonist, was the most efficient in attracting BM. Reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) analysis indicated that delta as well as other known opioid receptors were expressed in both BM and E17 mixed brain cells. Finally, a Met-enkephalin-like reactivity was found by RIA in the E17-CM. Altogether, these observations suggest that a delta-like opioid peptide released from embryonic mixed brain cells could be responsible for the infiltration of the developing CNS by macrophages precursors.

Neuropeptides--an overview

The present article provides a brief overview of various aspects on neuropeptides, emphasizing their multitude and their wide distribution in both the peripheral and central nervous system. Interestingly, neuropeptides are also expressed in various types of glial cells under normal and experimental conditions. The recent identification of, often multiple, receptor subtypes for each peptide, as well as the development of peptide antagonists, have provided an experimental framework to explore functional roles of neuropeptides. A characteristic of neuropeptides is the plasticity in their expression, reflecting the fact that release has to be compensated by de novo synthesis at the cell body level. In several systems peptides can be expressed at very low levels normally but are upregulated in response to, for example, nerve injury. The fact that neuropeptides virtually always coexist with one or more classic transmitters suggests that they are involved in modulatory processes and probably in many other types of functions, for example exerting trophic effects. Recent studies employing transgene technology have provided some information on their functional role, although compensatory mechanisms in all probability could disguise even a well defined action. It has been recognized that both 'old' and newly discovered peptides may be involved in the regulation of food intake. Recently the first disease-related mutation in a peptidergic system has been identified, and clinical efficacy of a substance P antagonist for treatment of depression has been reported. Taken together it seems that peptides may play a role particularly when the nervous system is stressed, challenged or afflicted by disease, and that peptidergic systems may, therefore, be targets for novel therapeutic strategies.

Quantitative immunochemistry on neuronal loss, reactive gliosis and BBB damage in cortex/striatum and hippocampus/amygdala after systemic kainic acid administration

Cell specific markers were quantified in the hippocampus, the amygdala/pyriform cortex, the frontal cerebral cortex and the striatum of the rat brain after systemic administration of kainic acid. Neuron specific enolase (NSE) reflects loss of neurons, glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) reflects reactive gliosis, and brain levels of serum proteins measures blood-brain-barrier permeability. While the concentration of NSE remained unaffected in the frontal cerebral cortex and the striatum, their GFAP content increased during the first three days. In the hippocampus and amygdala, NSE levels decreased significantly. GFAP levels in the hippocampus were unaffected after one day and decreased in the amygdala/pyriform cortex. After that, GFAP increased strikingly until day 9 or, in the case of amygdala/pyriform cortex, even longer. This biphasic time course for GFAP was accompanied by a decrease of S-100 during days 1-9 followed by a significant increase at day 27 above the initial level. The regional differences in GFAP and S-100 could result from the degree of neuronal degeneration, the astrocytic receptor set-up and/or effects on the blood-brain barrier.

Local neurochemicals and site-specific immune regulation in the CNS

Although it is often described as "immunologically privileged," the brain can display vigorous immune activity, both clinically and experimentally. The underlying control mechanisms are under active study. Here we shift attention from the brain as a whole to its diverse microenvironments. We review evidence that immune regulation in the brain is site-specific, and that local neurochemicals contribute to the site-specific control. Key points are illustrated by recent work from a rat model in which local injection of the proinflammatory cytokine, IFN-gamma, was used to modulate 2 essential aspects of the cell-mediated immune response: T cell entry from the blood, and expression of the MHC proteins that are needed to present antigen to the newly entered T cells. A growing number of neurologic disorders are known to be exacerbated by the immune/inflammatory network. Understanding the factors that influence local immune function may help explain the distribution of localized CNS damage and, more importantly, may suggest new therapeutic approaches for both desirable and unwanted responses.

Increased secretion of adrenomedullin from cultured human astrocytes by cytokines

Adrenomedullin, originally discovered from pheochromocytoma, is a member of the calcitonin gene-related peptide family. The production and secretion of adrenomedullin by cultured human astrocytes were studied by northern blot analysis and radioimmunoassay. Northern blot analysis showed the expression of adrenomedullin mRNA in cultured human astrocytes. Immunoreactive adrenomedullin concentrations in the culture medium were 29.6+/-1.2 fmol/10(5) cells/24 h (mean +/- SEM, n = 4). Treatment with interferon-gamma (100 U/ml), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (1 and 10 ng/ml), or interleukin-1beta (1 and 10 ng/ml) for 24 h caused >20-fold increases in immunoreactive adrenomedullin levels in the culture medium of human astrocytes. On the other hand, northern blot analysis showed only small increases (approximately 40%) in the adrenomedullin mRNA expression of human astrocytes with either 100 U/ml interferon-gamma or 10 ng/ml interleukin-1beta and no noticeable change with tumor necrosis factor-alpha. Reverse phase HPLC of the medium extracts of human astrocytes treated with interferon-gamma, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, or interleukin-1beta showed that most of immunoreactive adrenomedullin was eluted in the position of adrenomedullin-(1-52). On the other hand, immunoreactive adrenomedullin in the medium of human astrocytes without cytokine treatment was eluted earlier than the adrenomedullin standard, suggesting that this immunoreactive adrenomedullin represents adrenomedullin with some modifications or fragments of the adrenomedullin precursor. The present study has shown the production and secretion of adrenomedullin by human astrocytes and increased secretion of adrenomedullin by cytokines.

Glial-neuronal interactions in the neuroendocrine control of mammalian puberty: facilitatory effects of gonadal steroids

It is now clear that astroglial cells actively contribute to both the generation and flow of information within the central nervous system. In the hypothalamus, astrocytes regulate the secretory activity of neuroendocrine neurons. A small subset of these neurons secrete luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LHRH), a neuropeptide essential for sexual development and adult reproductive function. Astrocytes stimulate LHRH secretion via cell-cell signaling mechanisms involving growth factors recognized by receptors with either serine/threonine or tyrosine kinase activity. Two members of the epidermal growth factor (EGF) family and their respective tyrosine kinase receptors appear to play key roles in this regulatory process. Transforming growth factor-alpha (TGFalpha) and its distant congeners, the neuregulins (NRGs), are produced in hypothalamic astrocytes. They stimulate LHRH secretion indirectly, via activation of erbB-1/erbB-2 and erbB-4/erbB-2 receptor complexes also located on astrocytes. Activation of these receptors leads to release of prostaglandin E(2) (PGE(2)), which then binds to specific receptors on LHRH neurons to elicit LHRH secretion. Gonadal steroids facilitate this glia-to-neuron communication process by acting at three different steps along the signaling pathway. They (a) increase astrocytic gene expression of at least one of the EGF-related ligands (TGFalpha), (b) increase expression of at least two of the receptors (erbB-4 and erbB-2), and (c) enhance the LHRH response to PGE(2) by up-regulating in LHRH neurons the expression of specific PGE(2) receptor isoforms. Focal overexpression of TGFalpha in either the median eminence or preoptic area of the hypothalamus accelerates puberty. Conversely, blockade of either TGFalpha or NRG hypothalamic actions delays the process. Thus, both TGFalpha and NRGs appear to be physiological components of the central neuroendocrine mechanism controlling the initiation of female puberty. By facilitating growth factor signaling pathways in the hypothalamus, ovarian steroids accelerate the pace and progression of the pubertal process.

A regulated secretory pathway in cultured hippocampal astrocytes

Glial cells have been reported to express molecules originally discovered in neuronal and neuroendocrine cells, such as neuropeptides, neuropeptide processing enzymes, and ionic channels. To verify whether astrocytes may have regulated secretory vesicles, the primary cultures prepared from hippocampi of embryonic and neonatal rats were used to investigate the subcellular localization and secretory pathway followed by secretogranin II, a well known marker for dense-core granules. By indirect immunofluorescence, SgII was detected in a large number of cultured hippocampal astrocytes. Immunoreactivity for the granin was detected in the Golgi complex and in a population of dense-core vesicles stored in the cells. Subcellular fractionation experiments revealed that SgII was stored in a vesicle population with a density identical to that of the dense-core secretory granules present in rat pheochromocytoma cells. In line with these data, biochemical results indicated that 40-50% of secretogranin II synthesized during 18-h labeling was retained intracellularly over a 4-h chase period and released after treatment with different secretagogues. The most effective stimulus appeared to be phorbol ester in combination with ionomycin in the presence of extracellular Ca(2+), a treatment that was found to produce a large and sustained increase in intracellular calcium [Ca(2+)](i) transients. Our findings indicate that a regulated secretory pathway characterized by (i) the expression and stimulated exocytosis of a typical marker for regulated secretory granules, (ii) the presence of dense-core vesicles, and (iii) the ability to undergo [Ca(2+)](i) increase upon specific stimuli is present in cultured hippocampal astrocytes.

Chromogranin A in the central nervous system of the rat: pan-neuronal expression of its mRNA and selective expression of the protein

Chromogranin A, a glycoprotein stored in secretory granules of neuroendocrine cells, displays a widespread distribution throughout the central nervous system of a variety of species. In situ hybridization histochemistry was employed to investigate the localization of chromogranin A mRNA in the central nervous system of the rat. The previously characterized monoclonal antibody, LK2H-10, was employed in an immunohistochemical study to compare the topographic localization of the chromogranin A protein with that of its mRNA. Although the latter, as revealed by in situ hybridization, displayed a ubiquitous, pan-neuronal localization throughout the rat brain, LK2H-10 immunoreactive cell bodies and axon terminals were disposed in a widespread, but highly regionally differential, distribution. This discrepancy suggests that chromogranin A is processed in a regionally differential fashion in the rat brain to yield one or multiple variant forms, one of which is specifically recognized by LK2H-10. Catecholaminergic cell groups consistently displayed LK2H-10 immunoreactivity. LK2H-10 immunopositive axon terminals were prominent in the circumventricular organs. In addition, LK2H-10 immunoreactivity was also detected in a subset of astrocytes which demonstrated a widespread, but anatomically restricted, pattern of distribution. Consequently, the variant of chromogranin A labelled by LK2H-10 represents a novel neurochemical marker for regionally differential astrocytic diversity.

Up-regulation of somatostatin after lesions in the cerebellum of the teleost fish Apteronotus leptorhynchus

Following application of mechanical lesions to the corpus cerebelli, a cerebellar subdivision, in adult individuals of the teleost fish Apteronotus leptorhynchus, the pattern of expression of the neuropeptide somatostatin was examined by employing immunohistochemical techniques. In the intact corpus cerebelli, only a very few cells displayed somatostatin-like immunoreactivity. This number dramatically increased in the area of the lesion within the granule cell layer 1 day following the injury and peaked after 2 days, when the normalized total number of somatostatin-positive cells was approximately 50 times higher than the mean number of labeled cells found after 3, 6, and 12 h of survival. Between 5 and 10 days of post-lesioning survival time, this number abruptly declined and returned to background levels at 17 and 25 days. Confocal microscopy revealed three cell types, presumably corresponding to granule cell neurons, astrocytes and microglia, which all displayed a similar temporal pattern of somatostatin expression. It is hypothesized that somatostatin is involved in regulation of the genesis and/or development of new neurons which are produced in response to injuries and which replace damaged cells at the site of the lesion.

Regulation of nociceptin/orphanin FQ gene expression by neuropoietic cytokines and neurotrophic factors in neurons and astrocytes

We have identified the gene encoding nociceptin/orphanin FQ (N/OFQ), the novel opioid-like neuropeptide, as responsive to ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF). N/OFQ mRNA levels were induced five- and ninefold by CNTF in striatal and cortical neurons. In primary astrocytes CNTF also increased N/OFQ mRNA levels. CNTF is a multifunctional cytokine that mediates the development and differentiation of both neurons and astrocytes and supports the survival of various neurons. CNTF is also an injury-induced factor in the brain playing a crucial role in astrogliosis. The mechanism by which CNTF elicits these effects is not well understood, but it is likely to involve regulation of specific genes. CNTF regulation of N/OFQ expression was sensitive to the kinase inhibitors H-7 and genistein but not to inhibition of protein synthesis. This pharmacological profile is consistent with CNTF activating the Janus protein tyrosine kinase (JAK)/ signal transducers and activators of transcription (STAT) pathway to induce N/OFQ transcription. In nuclear extracts of CNTF-treated striatal neurons DNA binding of STAT proteins was increased. Radioimmunoassays revealed elevated N/OFQ immunoreactivity in striatal neurons after CNTF treatment. Expression of the related proenkephalin gene was not affected by CNTF in either neuronal or glial cultures. Regulation of N/OFQ expression by CNTF might point to a possible function of N/OFQ during development and after neural injury.

Astroglial modulation of neurotransmitter/peptide release from the neurohypophysis: present status

Reviewed in this article are those studies that have contributed heavily to our current conceptualizations of glial participation in the functioning of the magnocellular hypothalamo-neurohypophysial system. This system undergoes remarkable morphological and functional reorganization induced by increased demand for peptide synthesis and release, and this reorganization involves the astrocytic elements in primary roles. Under basal conditions, these glia appear to be vested with the responsibility of controlling the neuronal microenvironment in ways that reduce neuronal excitability, restrict access to neuronal membranes by neuroactive substances and deter neuron neuron interactions within the system. With physiological activation, the glial elements, via receptor-mediated mechanisms, take up new positions. This permissively facilitates neuron neuron interactions such as the exposure of neuronal membranes to released peptides and the formation of gap junctions and new synapses, enhances and prolongs the actions of those excitatory neurotransmitters for which there are glial uptake mechanisms, and facilitates the entry of peptides into the blood. In addition, subpopulations of these glia either newly synthesize or increase synthesis of neuroactive peptides for which their neuronal neighbors have receptors. Release of these peptides by the glia or their functional roles in the system have not yet been demonstrated.

Delta-opioid receptor immunoreactivity on astrocytes is upregulated during mitosis

Endogenous opioid peptides and opioid receptors are expressed by brain cells early during normal development, and exogenous opiate exposure in this period is known to affect brain cell proliferation and maturation. Despite the abundant evidence that opioids affect brain development, little is known about the mechanisms involved. In this study cortical astrocytes in primary culture were examined immunohistochemically by using antibodies against the opioid receptors. The immunoreactivity for delta-opioid receptors was strongly upregulated during mitosis with an increase in immunostaining that started in early prophase and lasted through the M-phase to cytokinesis. Similar effects could not be observed when antibodies against the mu- or kappa-opioid receptor subtypes were used. Cultured neurons and microglia presented a strong and homogenous immunostaining for the delta-opioid receptor and no further upregulation of immunoreactivity could be detected in these cells. The presence of functional delta-opioid receptors on the mitotic astrocytes was verified by using microspectrofluorometry for detection of delta-opioid agonist induced changes in intracellular free calcium concentrations ([Ca2+]i). In these experiments fluo-3/AM incubated cells showed a rapidly induced delta-opioid agonist (DPDPE, 10(-6) M) evoked increase in [Ca2+]i. These results suggest an upregulation of the delta-opioid receptors that could represent a mechanism involved in the response to opioids in the developing brain.