1
|
Powell GT, Faro A, Zhao Y, Stickney H, Novellasdemunt L, Henriques P, Gestri G, White ER, Ren J, Lu W, Young RM, Hawkins TA, Cavodeassi F, Schwarz Q, Dreosti E, Raible DW, Li VSW, Wright GJ, Jones EY, Wilson SW. Cachd1 interacts with Wnt receptors and regulates neuronal asymmetry in the zebrafish brain. Science 2024; 384:573-579. [PMID: 38696577 PMCID: PMC7615972 DOI: 10.1126/science.ade6970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 05/04/2024]
Abstract
Neurons on the left and right sides of the nervous system often show asymmetric properties, but how such differences arise is poorly understood. Genetic screening in zebrafish revealed that loss of function of the transmembrane protein Cachd1 resulted in right-sided habenula neurons adopting left-sided identity. Cachd1 is expressed in neuronal progenitors, functions downstream of asymmetric environmental signals, and influences timing of the normally asymmetric patterns of neurogenesis. Biochemical and structural analyses demonstrated that Cachd1 can bind simultaneously to Lrp6 and Frizzled family Wnt co-receptors. Consistent with this, lrp6 mutant zebrafish lose asymmetry in the habenulae, and epistasis experiments support a role for Cachd1 in modulating Wnt pathway activity in the brain. These studies identify Cachd1 as a conserved Wnt receptor-interacting protein that regulates lateralized neuronal identity in the zebrafish brain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gareth T. Powell
- Cell and Developmental Biology, University College London; London, WC1E 6BT, UK
- Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute; Cambridge CB10 1SA, UK
| | - Ana Faro
- Cell and Developmental Biology, University College London; London, WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Yuguang Zhao
- Division of Structural Biology, Wellcome Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford; Oxford, OX3 7BN, UK
| | - Heather Stickney
- Cell and Developmental Biology, University College London; London, WC1E 6BT, UK
- Departments of Otolaryngology-HNS and Biological Structure, University of Washington; Seattle, WA 98195-7420, USA
- Ambry Genetics; Aliso Viejo, CA 92656, USA
| | - Laura Novellasdemunt
- The Francis Crick Institute; London, NW1 1AT, UK
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology; 08028, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Pedro Henriques
- Cell and Developmental Biology, University College London; London, WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Gaia Gestri
- Cell and Developmental Biology, University College London; London, WC1E 6BT, UK
| | | | - Jingshan Ren
- Division of Structural Biology, Wellcome Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford; Oxford, OX3 7BN, UK
| | - Weixian Lu
- Division of Structural Biology, Wellcome Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford; Oxford, OX3 7BN, UK
| | - Rodrigo M. Young
- Cell and Developmental Biology, University College London; London, WC1E 6BT, UK
- Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London; London, EC1V 9EL, UK
- Center for Integrative Biology, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Mayor; Camino La Piramide 5750, 8580745, Santiago, Chile
| | - Thomas A. Hawkins
- Cell and Developmental Biology, University College London; London, WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Florencia Cavodeassi
- Cell and Developmental Biology, University College London; London, WC1E 6BT, UK
- St. George’s, University of London; London, SW17 0RE, UK
| | - Quenten Schwarz
- Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London; London, EC1V 9EL, UK
| | - Elena Dreosti
- Cell and Developmental Biology, University College London; London, WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - David W. Raible
- Departments of Otolaryngology-HNS and Biological Structure, University of Washington; Seattle, WA 98195-7420, USA
| | | | - Gavin J. Wright
- Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute; Cambridge CB10 1SA, UK
- Department of Biology, Hull York Medical School, York Biomedical Research Institute, University of York; York, YO10 5DD, UK
| | - E. Yvonne Jones
- Division of Structural Biology, Wellcome Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford; Oxford, OX3 7BN, UK
| | - Stephen W. Wilson
- Cell and Developmental Biology, University College London; London, WC1E 6BT, UK
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Palieri V, Paoli E, Wu YK, Haesemeyer M, Grunwald Kadow IC, Portugues R. The preoptic area and dorsal habenula jointly support homeostatic navigation in larval zebrafish. Curr Biol 2024; 34:489-504.e7. [PMID: 38211586 PMCID: PMC10849091 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2023.12.030] [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: 06/28/2023] [Revised: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2024]
Abstract
Animals must maintain physiological processes within an optimal temperature range despite changes in their environment. Through behavioral assays, whole-brain functional imaging, and neural ablations, we show that larval zebrafish, an ectothermic vertebrate, achieves thermoregulation through homeostatic navigation-non-directional and directional movements toward the temperature closest to its physiological setpoint. A brain-wide circuit encompassing several brain regions enables this behavior. We identified the preoptic area of the hypothalamus (PoA) as a key brain structure in triggering non-directional reorientation when thermal conditions are worsening. This result shows an evolutionary conserved role of the PoA as principal thermoregulator of the brain also in ectotherms. We further show that the habenula (Hb)-interpeduncular nucleus (IPN) circuit retains a short-term memory of the sensory history to support the generation of coherent directed movements even in the absence of continuous sensory cues. We finally provide evidence that this circuit may not be exclusive for temperature but may convey a more abstract representation of relative valence of physiologically meaningful stimuli regardless of their specific identity to enable homeostatic navigation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Virginia Palieri
- Institute of Neuroscience, Technical University of Munich, Biedersteiner Strasse 29, 80802 Munich, Germany; School of Life Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Freising, Germany
| | - Emanuele Paoli
- Institute of Neuroscience, Technical University of Munich, Biedersteiner Strasse 29, 80802 Munich, Germany
| | - You Kure Wu
- Institute of Neuroscience, Technical University of Munich, Biedersteiner Strasse 29, 80802 Munich, Germany
| | - Martin Haesemeyer
- Department of Neuroscience, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Ilona C Grunwald Kadow
- School of Life Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Freising, Germany; Institute of Physiology II, University of Bonn, Medical Faculty (UKB), Nussallee 11, 53115 Bonn, Germany.
| | - Ruben Portugues
- Institute of Neuroscience, Technical University of Munich, Biedersteiner Strasse 29, 80802 Munich, Germany; Munich Cluster of Systems Neurology (SyNergy), Feodor-Lynen-Str. 17, 81377 Munich, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Palma K, Signore IA, Meynard MM, Ibarra J, Armijo-Weingart L, Cayuleo M, Härtel S, Concha ML. Ontogenesis of the asymmetric parapineal organ in the zebrafish epithalamus. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:999265. [PMID: 36568973 PMCID: PMC9780773 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.999265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 11/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The parapineal organ is a midline-derived epithalamic structure that in zebrafish adopts a left-sided position at embryonic stages to promote the development of left-right asymmetries in the habenular nuclei. Despite extensive knowledge about its embryonic and larval development, it is still unknown whether the parapineal organ and its profuse larval connectivity with the left habenula are present in the adult brain or whether, as assumed from historical conceptions, this organ degenerates during ontogeny. This paper addresses this question by performing an ontogenetic analysis using an integrative morphological, ultrastructural and neurochemical approach. We find that the parapineal organ is lost as a morphological entity during ontogeny, while parapineal cells are incorporated into the posterior wall of the adult left dorsal habenular nucleus as small clusters or as single cells. Despite this integration, parapineal cells retain their structural, neurochemical and connective features, establishing a reciprocal synaptic connection with the more dorsal habenular neuropil. Furthermore, we describe the ultrastructure of parapineal cells using transmission electron microscopy and report immunoreactivity in parapineal cells with antibodies against substance P, tachykinin, serotonin and the photoreceptor markers arrestin3a and rod opsin. Our findings suggest that parapineal cells form an integral part of a neural circuit associated with the left habenula, possibly acting as local modulators of the circuit. We argue that the incorporation of parapineal cells into the habenula may be part of an evolutionarily relevant developmental mechanism underlying the presence/absence of the parapineal organ in teleosts, and perhaps in a broader sense in vertebrates.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Karina Palma
- Integrative Biology Program, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile,Biomedical Neuroscience Institute, Santiago, Chile
| | - Iskra A. Signore
- Integrative Biology Program, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile,Biomedical Neuroscience Institute, Santiago, Chile
| | - Margarita M. Meynard
- Integrative Biology Program, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile,Biomedical Neuroscience Institute, Santiago, Chile,Center for Geroscience, Brain Health and Metabolism, Santiago, Chile
| | - Jazmin Ibarra
- Integrative Biology Program, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile,Biomedical Neuroscience Institute, Santiago, Chile
| | | | - Marcos Cayuleo
- Integrative Biology Program, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile,Biomedical Neuroscience Institute, Santiago, Chile
| | - Steffen Härtel
- Integrative Biology Program, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile,Biomedical Neuroscience Institute, Santiago, Chile,National Center for Health Information Systems (CENS), Santiago, Chile
| | - Miguel L. Concha
- Integrative Biology Program, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile,Biomedical Neuroscience Institute, Santiago, Chile,Center for Geroscience, Brain Health and Metabolism, Santiago, Chile,*Correspondence: Miguel L. Concha,
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Agostini C, Bühler A, Antico Calderone A, Aadepu N, Herder C, Loosli F, Carl M. Conserved and diverged asymmetric gene expression in the brain of teleosts. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:1005776. [PMID: 36211473 PMCID: PMC9532764 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.1005776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Morphological left-right brain asymmetries are universal phenomena in animals. These features have been studied for decades, but the functional relevance is often unclear. Studies from the zebrafish dorsal diencephalon on the genetics underlying the establishment and function of brain asymmetries have uncovered genes associated with the development of functional brain asymmetries. To gain further insights, comparative studies help to investigate the emergence of asymmetries and underlying genetics in connection to functional adaptation. Evolutionarily distant isogenic medaka inbred lines, that show divergence of complex traits such as morphology, physiology and behavior, are a valuable resource to investigate intra-species variations in a given trait of interest. For a detailed study of asymmetry in the medaka diencephalon we generated molecular probes of ten medaka genes that are expressed asymmetrically in the zebrafish habenulae and pineal complex. We find expression of eight genes in the corresponding brain areas of medaka with differences in the extent of left-right asymmetry compared to zebrafish. Our marker gene analysis of the diverged medaka inbred strains revealed marked inter-strain size differences of the respective expression domains in the parapineal and the habenulae, which we hypothesize may result from strain-specific gene loss. Thus, our analysis reveals both inter-species differences but also intra-species plasticity of gene expression in the teleost dorsal diencephalon. These findings are a starting point showing the potential to identify the genetics underlying the emergence and modulations of asymmetries. They are also the prerequisite to examine whether variance in habenular gene expression may cause variation of behavioral traits.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carolina Agostini
- Department of Cellular, Computational and Integrative Biology (CIBIO), University of Trento, Trento, Italy
- Institute of Biological and Chemical Systems, Biological Information Processing (IBCS-BIP), Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, Karlsruhe, Germany
| | - Anja Bühler
- Department of Cellular, Computational and Integrative Biology (CIBIO), University of Trento, Trento, Italy
| | | | - Narendar Aadepu
- Institute of Biological and Chemical Systems, Biological Information Processing (IBCS-BIP), Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, Karlsruhe, Germany
- Centre for Organismal Studies, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Cathrin Herder
- Institute of Biological and Chemical Systems, Biological Information Processing (IBCS-BIP), Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, Karlsruhe, Germany
| | - Felix Loosli
- Institute of Biological and Chemical Systems, Biological Information Processing (IBCS-BIP), Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, Karlsruhe, Germany
- *Correspondence: Felix Loosli, ; Matthias Carl,
| | - Matthias Carl
- Department of Cellular, Computational and Integrative Biology (CIBIO), University of Trento, Trento, Italy
- *Correspondence: Felix Loosli, ; Matthias Carl,
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Zaupa M, Naini SMA, Younes MA, Bullier E, Duboué ER, Le Corronc H, Soula H, Wolf S, Candelier R, Legendre P, Halpern ME, Mangin JM, Hong E. Trans-inhibition of axon terminals underlies competition in the habenulo-interpeduncular pathway. Curr Biol 2021; 31:4762-4772.e5. [PMID: 34529937 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2021.08.051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2021] [Revised: 07/12/2021] [Accepted: 08/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Survival of animals is dependent on the correct selection of an appropriate behavioral response to competing external stimuli. Theoretical models have been proposed and underlying mechanisms are emerging to explain how one circuit is selected among competing neural circuits. The evolutionarily conserved forebrain to midbrain habenulo-interpeduncular nucleus (Hb-IPN) pathway consists of cholinergic and non-cholinergic neurons, which mediate different aversive behaviors. Simultaneous calcium imaging of neuronal cell bodies and of the population dynamics of their axon terminals reveals that signals in the cell bodies are not reflective of terminal activity. We find that axon terminals of cholinergic and non-cholinergic habenular neurons exhibit stereotypic patterns of spontaneous activity that are negatively correlated and localize to discrete subregions of the target IPN. Patch-clamp recordings show that calcium bursts in cholinergic terminals at the ventral IPN trigger excitatory currents in IPN neurons, which precede inhibition of non-cholinergic terminals at the adjacent dorsal IPN. Inhibition is mediated through presynaptic GABAB receptors activated in non-cholinergic habenular neurons upon GABA release from the target IPN. Together, the results reveal a hardwired mode of competition at the terminals of two excitatory neuronal populations, providing a physiological framework to explore the relationship between different aversive responses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Margherita Zaupa
- INSERM, CNRS, Neurosciences Paris Seine - Institut de Biologie Paris Seine (NPS - IBPS), Sorbonne Université, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Seyedeh Maryam Alavi Naini
- INSERM, CNRS, Neurosciences Paris Seine - Institut de Biologie Paris Seine (NPS - IBPS), Sorbonne Université, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Maroun Abi Younes
- INSERM, CNRS, Neurosciences Paris Seine - Institut de Biologie Paris Seine (NPS - IBPS), Sorbonne Université, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Erika Bullier
- INSERM, CNRS, Neurosciences Paris Seine - Institut de Biologie Paris Seine (NPS - IBPS), Sorbonne Université, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Erik R Duboué
- Jupiter Life Science Initiative, Wilkes Honors College and Charles E. Schmidt College of Science, Florida Atlantic University, Jupiter, FL 33458, USA
| | - Hervé Le Corronc
- INSERM, CNRS, Neurosciences Paris Seine - Institut de Biologie Paris Seine (NPS - IBPS), Sorbonne Université, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Hédi Soula
- INSERM, Sorbonne Université, Nutriomics, La Pitié Salpétrière, 75013 Paris, France
| | - Sebastien Wolf
- Laboratoire Jean Perrin, CNRS, Sorbonne Université, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Raphaël Candelier
- Laboratoire Jean Perrin, CNRS, Sorbonne Université, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Pascal Legendre
- INSERM, CNRS, Neurosciences Paris Seine - Institut de Biologie Paris Seine (NPS - IBPS), Sorbonne Université, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Marnie E Halpern
- Department of Molecular and Systems Biology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, NH 03755, USA
| | - Jean-Marie Mangin
- INSERM, CNRS, Neurosciences Paris Seine - Institut de Biologie Paris Seine (NPS - IBPS), Sorbonne Université, 75005 Paris, France
| | - Elim Hong
- INSERM, CNRS, Neurosciences Paris Seine - Institut de Biologie Paris Seine (NPS - IBPS), Sorbonne Université, 75005 Paris, France.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Regulation of habenular G-protein gamma 8 on learning and memory via modulation of the central acetylcholine system. Mol Psychiatry 2021; 26:3737-3750. [PMID: 32989244 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-020-00893-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2020] [Revised: 08/24/2020] [Accepted: 09/15/2020] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Guanine nucleotide binding protein (G protein) gamma 8 (Gng8) is a subunit of G proteins and expressed in the medial habenula (MHb) and interpeduncular nucleus (IPN). Recent studies have demonstrated that Gng8 is involved in brain development; however, the roles of Gng8 on cognitive function have not yet been addressed. In the present study, we investigated the expression of Gng8 in the brain and found that Gng8 was predominantly expressed in the MHb-IPN circuit of the mouse brain. We generated Gng8 knockout (KO) mice by CRISPR/Cas9 system in order to assess the role of Gng8 on cognitive function. Gng8 KO mice exhibited deficiency in learning and memory in passive avoidance and Morris water maze tests. In addition, Gng8 KO mice significantly reduced long-term potentiation (LTP) in the hippocampus compared to that of wild-type (WT) mice. Furthermore, we observed that levels of acetylcholine (ACh) and choline acetyltransferase (ChAT) in the MHb and IPN of Gng8 KO mice were significantly decreased, compared to WT mice. The administration of nAChR α4β2 agonist A85380 rescued memory impairment in the Gng8 KO mice, suggesting that Gng8 regulates cognitive function via modulation of cholinergic activity. Taken together, Gng8 is a potential therapeutic target for memory-related diseases and/or neurodevelopmental diseases.
Collapse
|
7
|
A Confocal Microscopic Study of Gene Transfer into the Mesencephalic Tegmentum of Juvenile Chum Salmon, Oncorhynchus keta, Using Mouse Adeno-Associated Viral Vectors. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22115661. [PMID: 34073457 PMCID: PMC8199053 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22115661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2021] [Revised: 05/21/2021] [Accepted: 05/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
To date, data on the presence of adenoviral receptors in fish are very limited. In the present work, we used mouse recombinant adeno-associated viral vectors (rAAV) with a calcium indicator of the latest generation GCaMP6m that are usually applied for the dorsal hippocampus of mice but were not previously used for gene delivery into fish brain. The aim of our work was to study the feasibility of transduction of rAAV in the mouse hippocampus into brain cells of juvenile chum salmon and subsequent determination of the phenotype of rAAV-labeled cells by confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM). Delivery of the gene in vivo was carried out by intracranial injection of a GCaMP6m-GFP-containing vector directly into the mesencephalic tegmentum region of juvenile (one-year-old) chum salmon, Oncorhynchus keta. AAV incorporation into brain cells of the juvenile chum salmon was assessed at 1 week after a single injection of the vector. AAV expression in various areas of the thalamus, pretectum, posterior-tuberal region, postcommissural region, medial and lateral regions of the tegmentum, and mesencephalic reticular formation of juvenile O. keta was evaluated using CLSM followed by immunohistochemical analysis of the localization of the neuron-specific calcium binding protein HuCD in combination with nuclear staining with DAPI. The results of the analysis showed partial colocalization of cells expressing GCaMP6m-GFP with red fluorescent HuCD protein. Thus, cells of the thalamus, posterior tuberal region, mesencephalic tegmentum, cells of the accessory visual system, mesencephalic reticular formation, hypothalamus, and postcommissural region of the mesencephalon of juvenile chum salmon expressing GCaMP6m-GFP were attributed to the neuron-specific line of chum salmon brain cells, which indicates the ability of hippocampal mammal rAAV to integrate into neurons of the central nervous system of fish with subsequent expression of viral proteins, which obviously indicates the neuronal expression of a mammalian adenoviral receptor homolog by juvenile chum salmon neurons.
Collapse
|
8
|
Cherng BW, Islam T, Torigoe M, Tsuboi T, Okamoto H. The Dorsal Lateral Habenula-Interpeduncular Nucleus Pathway Is Essential for Left-Right-Dependent Decision Making in Zebrafish. Cell Rep 2021; 32:108143. [PMID: 32937118 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2020.108143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2020] [Revised: 07/29/2020] [Accepted: 08/21/2020] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
How animals behave using suitable information to adapt to the environment is not well known. We address this issue by devising an automated system to let zebrafish exploit either internal (choice of left or right turn) or external (choice of cue color) navigation information to achieve operant behavior by reward reinforcement learning. The results of behavioral task with repeated rule shift indicate that zebrafish can learn operant behavior using both internal-directional and external-cued information. The learning time is reduced as rule shifts are repeated, revealing the capacity of zebrafish to adaptively retrieve the suitable rule memory after training. Zebrafish with an impairment in the neural pathway from the lateral subregion of the dorsal habenula to the interpeduncular nucleus, known to be potentiated in the winners of social conflicts, show specific defects in the application of the internal-directional rule, suggesting the dual roles of this pathway.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bor-Wei Cherng
- Laboratory for Neural Circuit Dynamics of Decision-making, RIKEN Center for Brain Science, Saitama 351-0198, Japan; Department of Life Science, Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 153-8902, Japan
| | - Tanvir Islam
- Laboratory for Neural Circuit Dynamics of Decision-making, RIKEN Center for Brain Science, Saitama 351-0198, Japan
| | - Makio Torigoe
- Laboratory for Neural Circuit Dynamics of Decision-making, RIKEN Center for Brain Science, Saitama 351-0198, Japan
| | - Takashi Tsuboi
- Department of Life Science, Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 153-8902, Japan
| | - Hitoshi Okamoto
- Laboratory for Neural Circuit Dynamics of Decision-making, RIKEN Center for Brain Science, Saitama 351-0198, Japan; RIKEN CBS-Kao Collaboration Center, Saitama 351-0198, Japan; Department of Life Science, Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 153-8902, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Bühler A, Carl M. Zebrafish Tools for Deciphering Habenular Network-Linked Mental Disorders. Biomolecules 2021; 11:biom11020324. [PMID: 33672636 PMCID: PMC7924194 DOI: 10.3390/biom11020324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2021] [Revised: 02/12/2021] [Accepted: 02/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Everything that we think, feel or do depends on the function of neural networks in the brain. These are highly complex structures made of cells (neurons) and their interconnections (axons), which develop dependent on precisely coordinated interactions of genes. Any gene mutation can result in unwanted alterations in neural network formation and concomitant brain disorders. The habenula neural network is one of these important circuits, which has been linked to autism, schizophrenia, depression and bipolar disorder. Studies using the zebrafish have uncovered genes involved in the development of this network. Intriguingly, some of these genes have also been identified as risk genes of human brain disorders highlighting the power of this animal model to link risk genes and the affected network to human disease. But can we use the advantages of this model to identify new targets and compounds with ameliorating effects on brain dysfunction? In this review, we summarise the current knowledge on techniques to manipulate the habenula neural network to study the consequences on behavior. Moreover, we give an overview of existing behavioral test to mimic aspects of mental disorders and critically discuss the applicability of the zebrafish model in this field of research. Abstract The prevalence of patients suffering from mental disorders is substantially increasing in recent years and represents a major burden to society. The underlying causes and neuronal circuits affected are complex and difficult to unravel. Frequent disorders such as depression, schizophrenia, autism, and bipolar disorder share links to the habenular neural circuit. This conserved neurotransmitter system relays cognitive information between different brain areas steering behaviors ranging from fear and anxiety to reward, sleep, and social behaviors. Advances in the field using the zebrafish model organism have uncovered major genetic mechanisms underlying the formation of the habenular neural circuit. Some of the identified genes involved in regulating Wnt/beta-catenin signaling have previously been suggested as risk genes of human mental disorders. Hence, these studies on habenular genetics contribute to a better understanding of brain diseases. We are here summarizing how the gained knowledge on the mechanisms underlying habenular neural circuit development can be used to introduce defined manipulations into the system to study the functional behavioral consequences. We further give an overview of existing behavior assays to address phenotypes related to mental disorders and critically discuss the power but also the limits of the zebrafish model for identifying suitable targets to develop therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anja Bühler
- Correspondence: (A.B.); (M.C.); Tel.: +39-0461-282745 (A.B.); +39-0461-283931 (M.C.)
| | - Matthias Carl
- Correspondence: (A.B.); (M.C.); Tel.: +39-0461-282745 (A.B.); +39-0461-283931 (M.C.)
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Wu CS, Lu YF, Liu YH, Huang CJ, Hwang SPL. Zebrafish Cdx1b modulates epithalamic asymmetry by regulating ndr2 and lft1 expression. Dev Biol 2020; 470:21-36. [PMID: 33197427 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2020.11.001] [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: 04/01/2020] [Revised: 10/06/2020] [Accepted: 11/03/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Nodal signaling is essential for mesoderm and endoderm formation, as well as neural plate induction and establishment of left-right asymmetry. However, the mechanisms controlling expression of Nodal pathway genes in these contexts are not fully known. Previously, we showed that Cdx1b induces expression of downstream Nodal signaling factors during early endoderm formation. In this study, we show that Cdx1b also regulates epithalamic asymmetry in zebrafish embryos by modulating expression of ndr2 and lft1. We first knocked down cdx1b with translation-blocking and splicing-blocking morpholinos (MOs). Most embryos injected with translation-blocking MOs showed absent ndr2, lft1 and pitx2c expression in the left dorsal diencephalon during segmentation and pharyngula stages accompanied by aberrant parapineal migration and habenular laterality at 72 h post fertilization (hpf). These defects were less frequent in embryos injected with splicing-blocking MO. To confirm the morphant phenotype, we next generated both zygotic (Z)cdx1b-/- and maternal zygotic (MZ)cdx1b-/- mutants by CRISPR-Cas9 mutagenesis. Expression of ndr2, lft1 and pitx2c was absent in the left dorsal diencephalon of a high proportion of MZcdx1b-/- mutants; however, aberrant dorsal diencephalic pitx2c expression patterns were observed at low frequency in Zcdx1b-/- mutant embryos. Correspondingly, dysregulated parapineal migration and habenular laterality were also observed in MZcdx1b-/- mutant embryos at 72 hpf. On the other hand, Kupffer's vesicle cilia length and number, expression pattern of spaw in the lateral plate mesoderm and pitx2c in the gut as well as left-right patterning of various visceral organs were not altered in MZcdx1b-/- mutants compared to wild-type embryos. Chromatin immunoprecipitation revealed that Cdx1b directly regulates ndr2 and lft1 expression. Furthermore, injection of cdx1b-vivo MO1 but not cdx1b-vivo 4 mm MO1 in the forebrain ventricle at 18 hpf significantly downregulated lft1 expression in the left dorsal diencephalon at 23-24 s stages. Together, our results suggest that Cdx1b regulates transcription of ndr2 and lft1 to maintain proper Nodal activity in the dorsal diencephalon and epithalamic asymmetry in zebrafish embryos.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chun-Shiu Wu
- Institute of Cellular and Organismic Biology, Academia Sinica, Taipei, 11529, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Fen Lu
- Institute of Cellular and Organismic Biology, Academia Sinica, Taipei, 11529, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Hsiu Liu
- Department of Life Science, National Taiwan University, Taipei, 10617, Taiwan
| | - Chang-Jen Huang
- Institute of Biological Chemistry, Academia Sinica, Taipei, 11529, Taiwan
| | - Sheng-Ping L Hwang
- Institute of Cellular and Organismic Biology, Academia Sinica, Taipei, 11529, Taiwan; Department of Life Science, National Taiwan University, Taipei, 10617, Taiwan.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Fore S, Acuña-Hinrichsen F, Mutlu KA, Bartoszek EM, Serneels B, Faturos NG, Chau KTP, Cosacak MI, Verdugo CD, Palumbo F, Ringers C, Jurisch-Yaksi N, Kizil C, Yaksi E. Functional properties of habenular neurons are determined by developmental stage and sequential neurogenesis. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2020; 6:6/36/eaaz3173. [PMID: 32917624 PMCID: PMC7473745 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.aaz3173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2019] [Accepted: 07/17/2020] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
The developing brain undergoes drastic alterations. Here, we investigated developmental changes in the habenula, a brain region that mediates behavioral flexibility during learning, social interactions, and aversive experiences. We showed that developing habenular circuits exhibit multiple alterations that lead to an increase in the structural and functional diversity of cell types, inputs, and functional modules. As the habenula develops, it sequentially transforms into a multisensory brain region that can process visual, olfactory, mechanosensory, and aversive stimuli. Moreover, we observed that the habenular neurons display spatiotemporally structured spontaneous activity that shows prominent alterations and refinement with age. These alterations in habenular activity are accompanied by sequential neurogenesis and the integration of distinct neural clusters across development. Last, we revealed that habenular neurons with distinct functional properties are born sequentially at distinct developmental time windows. Our results highlight a strong link between the functional properties of habenular neurons and their precise birthdate.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Fore
- Kavli Institute for Systems Neuroscience and Centre for Neural Computation, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Olav Kyrres gata 9, 7030 Trondheim, Norway
| | - Francisca Acuña-Hinrichsen
- Kavli Institute for Systems Neuroscience and Centre for Neural Computation, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Olav Kyrres gata 9, 7030 Trondheim, Norway
| | - Kadir Aytac Mutlu
- Kavli Institute for Systems Neuroscience and Centre for Neural Computation, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Olav Kyrres gata 9, 7030 Trondheim, Norway
| | - Ewelina Magdalena Bartoszek
- Kavli Institute for Systems Neuroscience and Centre for Neural Computation, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Olav Kyrres gata 9, 7030 Trondheim, Norway
| | - Bram Serneels
- Kavli Institute for Systems Neuroscience and Centre for Neural Computation, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Olav Kyrres gata 9, 7030 Trondheim, Norway
| | - Nicholas Guy Faturos
- Kavli Institute for Systems Neuroscience and Centre for Neural Computation, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Olav Kyrres gata 9, 7030 Trondheim, Norway
| | - Khac Thanh Phong Chau
- Kavli Institute for Systems Neuroscience and Centre for Neural Computation, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Olav Kyrres gata 9, 7030 Trondheim, Norway
| | - Mehmet Ilyas Cosacak
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) Dresden, Helmholtz Association, Tatzberg 41, 01307 Dresden, Germany
| | - Carmen Diaz Verdugo
- Kavli Institute for Systems Neuroscience and Centre for Neural Computation, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Olav Kyrres gata 9, 7030 Trondheim, Norway
| | - Fabrizio Palumbo
- Kavli Institute for Systems Neuroscience and Centre for Neural Computation, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Olav Kyrres gata 9, 7030 Trondheim, Norway
| | - Christa Ringers
- Kavli Institute for Systems Neuroscience and Centre for Neural Computation, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Olav Kyrres gata 9, 7030 Trondheim, Norway
| | - Nathalie Jurisch-Yaksi
- Kavli Institute for Systems Neuroscience and Centre for Neural Computation, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Olav Kyrres gata 9, 7030 Trondheim, Norway
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Olav Kyrres Gate 9, 7030 Trondheim, Norway
- Department of Neurology and Clinical Neurophysiology, St Olav University Hospital, Edvard Griegs Gate 8, 7030 Trondheim, Norway
| | - Caghan Kizil
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) Dresden, Helmholtz Association, Tatzberg 41, 01307 Dresden, Germany
- Center for Molecular and Cellular Bioengineering (CMCB), TU Dresden, Fetscherstr. 105, 01307 Dresden, Germany
| | - Emre Yaksi
- Kavli Institute for Systems Neuroscience and Centre for Neural Computation, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Olav Kyrres gata 9, 7030 Trondheim, Norway.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Miletto Petrazzini ME, Sovrano VA, Vallortigara G, Messina A. Brain and Behavioral Asymmetry: A Lesson From Fish. Front Neuroanat 2020; 14:11. [PMID: 32273841 PMCID: PMC7113390 DOI: 10.3389/fnana.2020.00011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2019] [Accepted: 03/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
It is widely acknowledged that the left and right hemispheres of human brains display both anatomical and functional asymmetries. For more than a century, brain and behavioral lateralization have been considered a uniquely human feature linked to language and handedness. However, over the past decades this idea has been challenged by an increasing number of studies describing structural asymmetries and lateralized behaviors in non-human species extending from primates to fish. Evidence suggesting that a similar pattern of brain lateralization occurs in all vertebrates, humans included, has allowed the emergence of different model systems to investigate the development of brain asymmetries and their impact on behavior. Among animal models, fish have contributed much to the research on lateralization as several fish species exhibit lateralized behaviors. For instance, behavioral studies have shown that the advantages of having an asymmetric brain, such as the ability of simultaneously processing different information and perform parallel tasks compensate the potential costs associated with poor integration of information between the two hemispheres thus helping to better understand the possible evolutionary significance of lateralization. However, these studies inferred how the two sides of the brains are differentially specialized by measuring the differences in the behavioral responses but did not allow to directly investigate the relation between anatomical and functional asymmetries. With respect to this issue, in recent years zebrafish has become a powerful model to address lateralization at different level of complexity, from genes to neural circuitry and behavior. The possibility of combining genetic manipulation of brain asymmetries with cutting-edge in vivo imaging technique and behavioral tests makes the zebrafish a valuable model to investigate the phylogeny and ontogeny of brain lateralization and its relevance for normal brain function and behavior.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Valeria Anna Sovrano
- Center for Mind/Brain Sciences, University of Trento, Rovereto, Italy.,Department of Psychology and Cognitive Science, University of Trento, Rovereto, Italy
| | | | - Andrea Messina
- Center for Mind/Brain Sciences, University of Trento, Rovereto, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Guglielmi L, Bühler A, Moro E, Argenton F, Poggi L, Carl M. Temporal control of Wnt signaling is required for habenular neuron diversity and brain asymmetry. Development 2020; 147:147/6/dev182865. [PMID: 32179574 DOI: 10.1242/dev.182865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2019] [Accepted: 02/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Precise temporal coordination of signaling processes is pivotal for cellular differentiation during embryonic development. A vast number of secreted molecules are produced and released by cells and tissues, and travel in the extracellular space. Whether they induce a signaling pathway and instruct cell fate, however, depends on a complex network of regulatory mechanisms, which are often not well understood. The conserved bilateral left-right asymmetrically formed habenulae of the zebrafish are an excellent model for investigating how signaling control facilitates the generation of defined neuronal populations. Wnt signaling is required for habenular neuron type specification, asymmetry and axonal connectivity. The temporal regulation of this pathway and the players involved have, however, have remained unclear. We find that tightly regulated temporal restriction of Wnt signaling activity in habenular precursor cells is crucial for the diversity and asymmetry of habenular neuron populations. We suggest a feedback mechanism whereby the tumor suppressor Wnt inhibitory factor Wif1 controls the Wnt dynamics in the environment of habenular precursor cells. This mechanism might be common to other cell types, including tumor cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luca Guglielmi
- Heidelberg University, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, 68167 Mannheim, Germany.
| | - Anja Bühler
- University of Trento, Department of Cellular, Computational and Integrative Biology (CIBIO), 38123 Trento, Italy.
| | - Enrico Moro
- University of Padova, Department of Molecular Medicine, 35121 Padova, Italy
| | | | - Lucia Poggi
- University of Trento, Department of Cellular, Computational and Integrative Biology (CIBIO), 38123 Trento, Italy.
| | - Matthias Carl
- Heidelberg University, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, 68167 Mannheim, Germany. ,University of Trento, Department of Cellular, Computational and Integrative Biology (CIBIO), 38123 Trento, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Lekk I, Duboc V, Faro A, Nicolaou S, Blader P, Wilson SW. Sox1a mediates the ability of the parapineal to impart habenular left-right asymmetry. eLife 2019; 8:47376. [PMID: 31373552 PMCID: PMC6677535 DOI: 10.7554/elife.47376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2019] [Accepted: 07/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Left-right asymmetries in the zebrafish habenular nuclei are dependent upon the formation of the parapineal, a unilateral group of neurons that arise from the medially positioned pineal complex. In this study, we show that both the left and right habenula are competent to adopt left-type molecular character and efferent connectivity upon the presence of only a few parapineal cells. This ability to impart left-sided character is lost in parapineal cells lacking Sox1a function, despite the normal specification of the parapineal itself. Precisely timed laser ablation experiments demonstrate that the parapineal influences neurogenesis in the left habenula at early developmental stages as well as neurotransmitter phenotype and efferent connectivity during subsequent stages of habenular differentiation. These results reveal a tight coordination between the formation of the unilateral parapineal nucleus and emergence of asymmetric habenulae, ensuring that appropriate lateralised character is propagated within left and right-sided circuitry.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ingrid Lekk
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University College London, London, United Kingdom.,Center for Brain Research, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Véronique Duboc
- Centre de Biologie Intégrative (FR 3743), Centre de Biologie du Développement (UMR5547), Université de Toulouse, CNRS, Toulouse, France.,Université Côte d'Azur, CHU, Inserm, CNRS, IRCAN, Nice, France
| | - Ana Faro
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Stephanos Nicolaou
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University College London, London, United Kingdom.,Division of Cancer Therapeutics, The Institute of Cancer Research, London, United Kingdom
| | - Patrick Blader
- Centre de Biologie Intégrative (FR 3743), Centre de Biologie du Développement (UMR5547), Université de Toulouse, CNRS, Toulouse, France
| | - Stephen W Wilson
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Luan SX, Zhang L, Wang R, Zhao H, Liu C. A resting-state study of volumetric and functional connectivity of the habenular nucleus in treatment-resistant depression patients. Brain Behav 2019; 9:e01229. [PMID: 30806014 PMCID: PMC6456806 DOI: 10.1002/brb3.1229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2018] [Revised: 01/18/2019] [Accepted: 01/19/2019] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the volumetric and functional connectivity of the habenular nucleus in treatment-resistant depression (TRD) patients using the resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rs-fMRI) approach. METHODS A total of 15 TRD patients, who visited the Mental Health Institute of the First Hospital Affiliated with Jilin University between August 2014 and March 2015, along with 15 normal subjects, were enrolled into this study for structural and functional imaging. Functional connectivity analysis was performed using bilateral habenular nuclei as the region of interest in contrast to whole-brain voxels. RESULTS No significant difference of absolute volume was found in bilateral habenular nuclei between TRD patients and healthy controls, or after controlling for individual total intracranial volume. However, functional connectivity analysis showed increased connectivity between the right habenular nucleus with the medial superior frontal gyrus, anterior cingulate cortex and medial orbitofrontal gyrus, and decreased connectivity with the corpus callosum in the TRD group. For the left habenular nucleus seed, the brain region with increased functional connectivity in the inferior temporal gyrus and decreased functional connectivity in the insular was found in the TRD patients. CONCLUSION Abnormal functional connectivity was present between the habenular nucleus and the default mode network in TRD patients. Dysfunction in habenular nucleus-related circuitry for processing negative emotion might form the pathological basis for TRD. Significant asymmetric functional connectivity was also found between bilateral habenular nuclei in TRD patients. Such asymmetry suggests potentially divergent strategy for intervention on bilateral habenular nucleus regions in the future management of depression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shu-Xin Luan
- Department of Mental Health, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China.,Department of Physiology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Lei Zhang
- Department of Radiology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Rui Wang
- Department of Mental Health, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Hua Zhao
- Department of Physiology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Chang Liu
- Department of Mental Health, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Left/right asymmetric collective migration of parapineal cells is mediated by focal FGF signaling activity in leading cells. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2018; 115:E9812-E9821. [PMID: 30282743 PMCID: PMC6196547 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1812016115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The ability of cells to collectively interpret surrounding environmental signals underpins their capacity to coordinate their migration in various contexts, including embryonic development and cancer metastasis. One tractable model for studying collective migration is the parapineal, a left-sided group of neurons that arises from bilaterally positioned precursors that undergo a collective migration to the left side of the brain. In zebrafish, the migration of these cells requires Fgf8 and, in this study, we resolve how FGF signaling correlates with-and impacts the migratory dynamics of-the parapineal cell collective. The temporal and spatial dynamics of an FGF reporter transgene reveal that FGF signaling is activated in only few parapineal cells usually located at the leading edge of the parapineal during its migration. Overexpressing a constitutively active Fgf receptor compromises parapineal migration in wild-type embryos, while it partially restores both parapineal migration and mosaic expression of the FGF reporter transgene in fgf8 -/- mutant embryos. Focal activation of FGF signaling in few parapineal cells is sufficient to promote the migration of the whole parapineal collective. Finally, we show that asymmetric Nodal signaling contributes to the restriction and leftwards bias of FGF pathway activation. Our data indicate that the first overt morphological asymmetry in the zebrafish brain is promoted by FGF pathway activation in cells that lead the collective migration of the parapineal to the left. This study shows that cell-state differences in FGF signaling in front versus rear cells is required to promote migration in a model of FGF-dependent collective migration.
Collapse
|
17
|
Signore IA, Palma K, Concha ML. Nodal signalling and asymmetry of the nervous system. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2017; 371:rstb.2015.0401. [PMID: 27821531 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2015.0401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/22/2016] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The role of Nodal signalling in nervous system asymmetry is still poorly understood. Here, we review and discuss how asymmetric Nodal signalling controls the ontogeny of nervous system asymmetry using a comparative developmental perspective. A detailed analysis of asymmetry in ascidians and fishes reveals a critical context-dependency of Nodal function and emphasizes that bilaterally paired and midline-unpaired structures/organs behave as different entities. We propose a conceptual framework to dissect the developmental function of Nodal as asymmetry inducer and laterality modulator in the nervous system, which can be used to study other types of body and visceral organ asymmetries. Using insights from developmental biology, we also present novel evolutionary hypotheses on how Nodal led the evolution of directional asymmetry in the brain, with a particular focus on the epithalamus. We intend this paper to provide a synthesis on how Nodal signalling controls left-right asymmetry of the nervous system.This article is part of the themed issue 'Provocative questions in left-right asymmetry'.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Iskra A Signore
- Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad de Chile, PO Box 70031, Santiago, Chile.,Biomedical Neuroscience Institute, Independencia 1027, Santiago, Chile
| | - Karina Palma
- Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad de Chile, PO Box 70031, Santiago, Chile.,Biomedical Neuroscience Institute, Independencia 1027, Santiago, Chile
| | - Miguel L Concha
- Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad de Chile, PO Box 70031, Santiago, Chile .,Biomedical Neuroscience Institute, Independencia 1027, Santiago, Chile.,Center for Geroscience, Brain Health and Metabolism, Santiago, Chile
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Roberson S, Halpern ME. Development and connectivity of the habenular nuclei. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2017; 78:107-115. [PMID: 29107475 PMCID: PMC5920772 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2017.10.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2017] [Accepted: 10/09/2017] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
Accumulating evidence has reinforced that the habenular region of the vertebrate dorsal forebrain is an essential integrating center, and a region strongly implicated in neurological disorders and addiction. Despite the important and diverse neuromodulatory roles the habenular nuclei play, their development has been understudied. The emphasis of this review is on the dorsal habenular nuclei of zebrafish, homologous to the medial nuclei of mammals, as recent work has revealed new information about the signaling pathways that regulate their formation. Additionally, the zebrafish dorsal habenulae have become a valuable model for probing how left-right differences are established in a vertebrate brain. Sonic hedgehog, fibroblast growth factors and Wingless-INT proteins are all involved in the generation of progenitor cells and ultimately, along with Notch signaling, influence habenular neurogenesis and left-right asymmetry. Intriguingly, a genetic network has emerged that leads to the differentiation of dorsal habenular neurons and, through localized chemokine signaling, directs the posterior outgrowth of their newly emerging axons towards their postsynaptic target, the midbrain interpeduncular nucleus.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sara Roberson
- Carnegie Institution for Science, Department of Embryology, 3520 San Martin Drive Baltimore, MD 21218, USA; Department of Biology, The Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA
| | - Marnie E Halpern
- Carnegie Institution for Science, Department of Embryology, 3520 San Martin Drive Baltimore, MD 21218, USA; Department of Biology, The Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
The molecular mechanisms controlling morphogenesis and wiring of the habenula. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2017; 162:29-37. [PMID: 28843424 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2017.08.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2017] [Revised: 07/07/2017] [Accepted: 08/21/2017] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The habenula is an evolutionarily conserved brain region comprising bilaterally paired nuclei that plays a key role in processing reward information and mediating aversive responses to negative stimuli. An important aspect underlying habenula function is relaying information between forebrain and mid- and hindbrain areas. This is mediated by its complex organization into multiple subdomains and corresponding complexity in circuit organization. Additionally, in many species habenular nuclei display left-right differences at the anatomical and functional level. In order to ensure proper functional organization of habenular circuitry, sophisticated molecular programs control the morphogenesis and wiring of the habenula during development. Knowledge of how these mechanisms shape the habenula is crucial for obtaining a complete understanding of this brain region and can provide invaluable tools to study habenula evolution and function. In this review we will discuss how these molecular mechanisms pattern the early embryonic nervous system and control the formation of the habenula, how they shape its asymmetric organization, and how these mechanisms ensure proper wiring of the habenular circuit. Finally, we will address unexplored aspects of habenula development and how these may direct future research.
Collapse
|
20
|
Early Commissural Diencephalic Neurons Control Habenular Axon Extension and Targeting. Curr Biol 2017; 27:270-278. [PMID: 28065605 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2016.11.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2016] [Revised: 10/07/2016] [Accepted: 11/16/2016] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Most neuronal populations form on both the left and right sides of the brain. Their efferent axons appear to grow synchronously along similar pathways on each side, although the neurons or their environment often differ between the two hemispheres [1-4]. How this coordination is controlled has received little attention. Frequently, neurons establish interhemispheric connections, which can function to integrate information between brain hemispheres (e.g., [5]). Such commissures form very early, suggesting their potential developmental role in coordinating ipsilateral axon navigation during embryonic development [4]. To address the temporal-spatial control of bilateral axon growth, we applied long-term time-lapse imaging to visualize the formation of the conserved left-right asymmetric habenular neural circuit in the developing zebrafish embryo [6]. Although habenular neurons are born at different times across brain hemispheres [7], we found that elongation of habenular axons occurs synchronously. The initiation of axon extension is not controlled within the habenular network itself but through an early developing proximal diencephalic network. The commissural neurons of this network influence habenular axons both ipsilaterally and contralaterally. Their unilateral absence impairs commissure formation and coordinated habenular axon elongation and causes their subsequent arrest on both sides of the brain. Thus, habenular neural circuit formation depends on a second intersecting commissural network, which facilitates the exchange of information between hemispheres required for ipsilaterally projecting habenular axons. This mechanism of network formation may well apply to other circuits, and has only remained undiscovered due to technical limitations.
Collapse
|
21
|
Duboué ER, Halpern ME. Genetic and Transgenic Approaches to Study Zebrafish Brain Asymmetry and Lateralized Behavior. LATERALIZED BRAIN FUNCTIONS 2017. [DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-6725-4_17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/08/2022]
|
22
|
Abstract
The habenula is a tiny brain region the size of a pea in humans. This region is highly conserved across vertebrates and has been traditionally overlooked by neuroscientists. The name habenula is derived from the Latin word habena, meaning "little rein", because of its elongated shape. Originally its function was thought to be related to the regulation of the nearby pineal gland (which Rene Descartes described as the "principal seat of the soul"). More recent evidence, however, demonstrates that the habenula acts as a critical neuroanatomical hub that connects and regulates brain regions important for divergent motivational states and cognition. In this Primer, we will discuss the recent and converging evidence that points to the habenula as a key brain region for motivation and decision-making.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vijay Mohan K Namboodiri
- Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; Neuroscience Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Jose Rodriguez-Romaguera
- Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Garret D Stuber
- Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; Neuroscience Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Signore IA, Concha ML. Heterochrony and Morphological Variation of Epithalamic Asymmetry. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL ZOOLOGY PART B-MOLECULAR AND DEVELOPMENTAL EVOLUTION 2016; 328:157-164. [PMID: 27659033 DOI: 10.1002/jez.b.22698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2016] [Revised: 06/23/2016] [Accepted: 08/16/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Heterochrony is one proposed mechanism to explain how morphological variation and novelty arise during evolution. To experimentally approach heterochrony in a comprehensive manner, we must consider all three aspects of developmental time (sequence, timing, duration). This task is only possible in developmental models that allow the acquisition of high-quality temporal data in the context of normalized developmental time. Here we propose that epithalamic asymmetry of teleosts is one such model. Comparative studies among related teleost species have revealed heterochronic shifts in the timing of ontogenic events leading to the development of epithalamic asymmetry. Such temporal changes involve neural structures critical for tissue-tissue interactions underlying the generation of asymmetry and are concurrent with the appearance of morphological differences in the pattern of asymmetry between species. Based on these findings, we hypothesize that interspecies variation of epithalamic asymmetry results from changes in the timing of tissue-tissue interactions critical for the establishment of asymmetry during ontogeny. Importantly, this hypothesis can be tested by systematic comparative approaches among teleosts species based on normalized developmental time, combined with experimental manipulation of epithalamic asymmetry development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Iskra A Signore
- Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile.,Biomedical Neuroscience Institute, Independencia, Santiago, Chile
| | - Miguel L Concha
- Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile.,Center for Geroscience, Brain Health and Metabolism, Santiago, Chile
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Halluin C, Madelaine R, Naye F, Peers B, Roussigné M, Blader P. Habenular Neurogenesis in Zebrafish Is Regulated by a Hedgehog, Pax6 Proneural Gene Cascade. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0158210. [PMID: 27387288 PMCID: PMC4936704 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0158210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2015] [Accepted: 06/13/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The habenulae are highly conserved nuclei in the dorsal diencephalon that connect the forebrain to the midbrain and hindbrain. These nuclei have been implicated in a broad variety of behaviours in humans, primates, rodents and zebrafish. Despite this, the molecular mechanisms that control the genesis and differentiation of neural progenitors in the habenulae remain relatively unknown. We have previously shown that, in zebrafish, the timing of habenular neurogenesis is left-right asymmetric and that in the absence of Nodal signalling this asymmetry is lost. Here, we show that habenular neurogenesis requires the homeobox transcription factor Pax6a and the redundant action of two proneural bHLH factors, Neurog1 and Neurod4. We present evidence that Hedgehog signalling is required for the expression of pax6a, which is in turn necessary for the expression of neurog1 and neurod4. Finally, we demonstrate by pharmacological inhibition that Hedgehog signalling is required continuously during habenular neurogenesis and by cell transplantation experiments that pathway activation is required cell autonomously. Our data sheds light on the mechanism underlying habenular development that may provide insights into how Nodal signalling imposes asymmetry on the timing of habenular neurogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Halluin
- Université de Toulouse III, UPS, Centre de Biologie du Développement (CBD), Centre de Biologie Intégrative (CBI), 118 route de Narbonne, F-31062 Toulouse, France
- CNRS, CBD UMR 5547, F-31062 Toulouse, France
- Stanford University, School of Medicine, 269–279 Campus Drive, Stanford, CA 94305, United States of America
| | - Romain Madelaine
- Université de Toulouse III, UPS, Centre de Biologie du Développement (CBD), Centre de Biologie Intégrative (CBI), 118 route de Narbonne, F-31062 Toulouse, France
- CNRS, CBD UMR 5547, F-31062 Toulouse, France
- Stanford University, School of Medicine, 269–279 Campus Drive, Stanford, CA 94305, United States of America
| | - François Naye
- Unit of Molecular Biology and Genetic Engineering, University of Liège, GIGA-R, B34, Avenue de l'Hôpital 1, B-4000 Liège, Belgium
| | - Bernard Peers
- Unit of Molecular Biology and Genetic Engineering, University of Liège, GIGA-R, B34, Avenue de l'Hôpital 1, B-4000 Liège, Belgium
| | - Myriam Roussigné
- Université de Toulouse III, UPS, Centre de Biologie du Développement (CBD), Centre de Biologie Intégrative (CBI), 118 route de Narbonne, F-31062 Toulouse, France
- CNRS, CBD UMR 5547, F-31062 Toulouse, France
- * E-mail: (MR); (PB)
| | - Patrick Blader
- Université de Toulouse III, UPS, Centre de Biologie du Développement (CBD), Centre de Biologie Intégrative (CBI), 118 route de Narbonne, F-31062 Toulouse, France
- CNRS, CBD UMR 5547, F-31062 Toulouse, France
- * E-mail: (MR); (PB)
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Turner KJ, Hawkins TA, Yáñez J, Anadón R, Wilson SW, Folgueira M. Afferent Connectivity of the Zebrafish Habenulae. Front Neural Circuits 2016; 10:30. [PMID: 27199671 PMCID: PMC4844923 DOI: 10.3389/fncir.2016.00030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2016] [Accepted: 04/04/2016] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The habenulae are bilateral nuclei located in the dorsal diencephalon that are conserved across vertebrates. Here we describe the main afferents to the habenulae in larval and adult zebrafish. We observe afferents from the subpallium, nucleus rostrolateralis, posterior tuberculum, posterior hypothalamic lobe, median raphe; we also see asymmetric afferents from olfactory bulb to the right habenula, and from the parapineal to the left habenula. In addition, we find afferents from a ventrolateral telencephalic nucleus that neurochemical and hodological data identify as the ventral entopeduncular nucleus (vENT), confirming and extending observations of Amo et al. (2014). Fate map and marker studies suggest that vENT originates from the diencephalic prethalamic eminence and extends into the lateral telencephalon from 48 to 120 hour post-fertilization (hpf). No afferents to the habenula were observed from the dorsal entopeduncular nucleus (dENT). Consequently, we confirm that the vENT (and not the dENT) should be considered as the entopeduncular nucleus "proper" in zebrafish. Furthermore, comparison with data in other vertebrates suggests that the vENT is a conserved basal ganglia nucleus, being homologous to the entopeduncular nucleus of mammals (internal segment of the globus pallidus of primates) by both embryonic origin and projections, as previously suggested by Amo et al. (2014).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katherine J. Turner
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University College London (UCL)London, UK
| | - Thomas A. Hawkins
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University College London (UCL)London, UK
| | - Julián Yáñez
- Neurover Group, Centro de Investigacións Científicas Avanzadas (CICA) and Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, University of A Coruña (UDC)A Coruña, Spain
| | - Ramón Anadón
- Department of Cell Biology and Ecology, Faculty of Biology, University of Santiago de CompostelaSantiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Stephen W. Wilson
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University College London (UCL)London, UK
| | - Mónica Folgueira
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University College London (UCL)London, UK
- Neurover Group, Centro de Investigacións Científicas Avanzadas (CICA) and Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, University of A Coruña (UDC)A Coruña, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Abstract
This chapter describes three fast and straightforward methods to introduce nucleic acids, dyes, and other molecules into small numbers of cells of zebrafish embryos, larvae, and adults using electroporation. These reagents are delivered through a glass micropipette and electrical pulses are given through electrodes to permeabilize cell membranes and promote uptake of the reagent. This technique allows the experimenter to target cells of their choice at a particular time of development and at a particular location in the zebrafish with high precision and facilitates long-term noninvasive measurement of biological activities in vivo. Applications include cell fate mapping, neural circuit mapping, neuronal activity measurement, manipulation of activity, ectopic gene expression, and genetic knockdown experiments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ming Zou
- Friedrich Miescher Institute for Biomedical Research, Maulbeerstrasse 66, CH-4058, Basel, Switzerland.
- University of Basel, CH-4003, Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Rainer W Friedrich
- Friedrich Miescher Institute for Biomedical Research, Maulbeerstrasse 66, CH-4058, Basel, Switzerland.
- University of Basel, CH-4003, Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Isaac H Bianco
- Department of Neuroscience, Physiology & Pharmacology, University College London, Gower Street, London, WC1E 6BT, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Abstract
Although the left and right hemispheres of our brains develop with a high degree of symmetry at both the anatomical and functional levels, it has become clear that subtle structural differences exist between the two sides and that each is dominant in processing specific cognitive tasks. As the result of evolutionary conservation or convergence, lateralization of the brain is found in both vertebrates and invertebrates, suggesting that it provides significant fitness for animal life. This widespread feature of hemispheric specialization has allowed the emergence of model systems to study its development and, in some cases, to link anatomical asymmetries to brain function and behavior. Here, we present some of what is known about brain asymmetry in humans and model organisms as well as what is known about the impact of environmental and genetic factors on brain asymmetry development. We specifically highlight the progress made in understanding the development of epithalamic asymmetries in zebrafish and how this model provides an exciting opportunity to address brain asymmetry at different levels of complexity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Véronique Duboc
- Université de Toulouse, UPS, Center de Biologie du Développement (CBD), F-31062 Toulouse, France; .,CNRS, CBD UMR 5547, F-31062 Toulouse, France
| | - Pascale Dufourcq
- Université de Toulouse, UPS, Center de Biologie du Développement (CBD), F-31062 Toulouse, France; .,CNRS, CBD UMR 5547, F-31062 Toulouse, France
| | - Patrick Blader
- Université de Toulouse, UPS, Center de Biologie du Développement (CBD), F-31062 Toulouse, France; .,CNRS, CBD UMR 5547, F-31062 Toulouse, France
| | - Myriam Roussigné
- Université de Toulouse, UPS, Center de Biologie du Développement (CBD), F-31062 Toulouse, France; .,CNRS, CBD UMR 5547, F-31062 Toulouse, France
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Nathan FM, Ogawa S, Parhar IS. Neuronal connectivity between habenular glutamate-kisspeptin1 co-expressing neurons and the raphe 5-HT system. J Neurochem 2015; 135:814-29. [PMID: 26250886 PMCID: PMC5049628 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.13273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2015] [Revised: 07/23/2015] [Accepted: 07/27/2015] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
The habenula, located on the dorsal thalamic surface, is an emotional and reward processing center. As in the mammalian brain, the zebrafish habenula is divided into dorsal (dHb) and ventral (vHb) subdivisions that project to the interpeduncular nucleus and median raphe (MR) respectively. Previously, we have shown that kisspeptin 1 (Kiss1) expressing in the vHb, regulates the serotonin (5‐HT) system in the MR. However, the connectivity between the Kiss1 neurons and the 5‐HT system remains unknown. To resolve this issue, we generated a specific antibody against zebrafish Kiss1 receptor (Kiss‐R1); using this primary antibody we found intense immunohistochemical labeling in the ventro‐anterior corner of the MR (vaMR) but not in 5‐HT neurons, suggesting the potential involvement of interneurons in 5‐HT modulation by Kiss1. Double‐fluorescence labeling showed that the majority of habenular Kiss1 neurons are glutamatergic. In the MR region, Kiss1 fibers were mainly seen in close association with glutamatergic neurons and only scarcely within GABAergic and 5‐HT neurons. Our findings indicate that the habenular Kiss1 neurons potentially modulate the 5‐HT system primarily through glutamatergic neurotransmission via as yet uncharacterized interneurons.
The neuropeptide kisspeptin (Kiss1) play a key role in vertebrate reproduction. We have previously shown modulatory role of habenular Kiss1 in the raphe serotonin (5‐HT) systems. This study proposed that the habenular Kiss1 neurons modulate the 5‐HT system primarily through glutamatergic neurotransmission, which provides an important insight for understanding of the modulation of 5‐HT system by the habenula‐raphe pathway.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fatima M Nathan
- Brain Research Institute, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Monash University Malaysia, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Satoshi Ogawa
- Brain Research Institute, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Monash University Malaysia, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Ishwar S Parhar
- Brain Research Institute, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Monash University Malaysia, Selangor, Malaysia
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Wyatt C, Bartoszek EM, Yaksi E. Methods for studying the zebrafish brain: past, present and future. Eur J Neurosci 2015; 42:1746-63. [PMID: 25900095 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.12932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2015] [Revised: 04/16/2015] [Accepted: 04/20/2015] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
The zebrafish (Danio rerio) is one of the most promising new model organisms. The increasing popularity of this amazing small vertebrate is evident from the exponentially growing numbers of research articles, funded projects and new discoveries associated with the use of zebrafish for studying development, brain function, human diseases and screening for new drugs. Thanks to the development of novel technologies, the range of zebrafish research is constantly expanding with new tools synergistically enhancing traditional techniques. In this review we will highlight the past and present techniques which have made, and continue to make, zebrafish an attractive model organism for various fields of biology, with a specific focus on neuroscience.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cameron Wyatt
- Neuro-Electronics Research Flanders, Imec Campus, Kapeldreef, Leuven, Belgium.,VIB, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Ewelina M Bartoszek
- Neuro-Electronics Research Flanders, Imec Campus, Kapeldreef, Leuven, Belgium.,VIB, Leuven, Belgium.,Kavli Institute for Systems Neuroscience and Centre for Neural Computation, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Emre Yaksi
- Neuro-Electronics Research Flanders, Imec Campus, Kapeldreef, Leuven, Belgium.,VIB, Leuven, Belgium.,KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.,Kavli Institute for Systems Neuroscience and Centre for Neural Computation, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Chung NC, Huang YH, Chang CH, Liao JC, Yang CH, Chen CC, Liu IY. Behavior training reverses asymmetry in hippocampal transcriptome of the cav3.2 knockout mice. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0118832. [PMID: 25768289 PMCID: PMC4358833 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0118832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2013] [Accepted: 01/23/2015] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Homozygous Cav3.2 knockout mice, which are defective in the pore-forming subunit of a low voltage activated T-type calcium channel, have been documented to show impaired maintenance of late-phase long-term potentiation (L-LTP) and defective retrieval of context-associated fear memory. To investigate the role of Cav3.2 in global gene expression, we performed a microarray transcriptome study on the hippocampi of the Cav3.2-/- mice and their wild-type littermates, either naïve (untrained) or trace fear conditioned. We found a significant left-right asymmetric effect on the hippocampal transcriptome caused by the Cav3.2 knockout. Between the naive Cav3.2-/- and the naive wild-type mice, 3522 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were found in the left hippocampus, but only 4 DEGs were found in the right hippocampus. Remarkably, the effect of Cav3.2 knockout was partially reversed by trace fear conditioning. The number of DEGs in the left hippocampus was reduced to 6 in the Cav3.2 knockout mice after trace fear conditioning, compared with the wild-type naïve mice. To our knowledge, these results demonstrate for the first time the asymmetric effects of the Cav3.2 and its partial reversal by behavior training on the hippocampal transcriptome.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ni-Chun Chung
- Department of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Tzu Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan
| | - Ying-Hsueh Huang
- Institute of Biomedical Informatics, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chuan-Hsiung Chang
- Institute of Biomedical Informatics, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - James C. Liao
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
| | - Chih-Hsien Yang
- Institute of Biomedical Informatics, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chien-Chang Chen
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ingrid Y. Liu
- Department of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Tzu Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan
- Institute of Medical Sciences, Tzu Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Ichijo H, Hamada M, Takahashi S, Kobayashi M, Nagai T, Toyama T, Kawaguchi M. Lateralization, maturation, and anteroposterior topography in the lateral habenula revealed by ZIF268/EGR1 immunoreactivity and labeling history of neuronal activity. Neurosci Res 2015; 95:27-37. [PMID: 25637311 DOI: 10.1016/j.neures.2015.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2014] [Revised: 01/16/2015] [Accepted: 01/16/2015] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
We report habenular lateralization in a simple transgenic mouse model used for labeling a facet of neuronal activity history. A transgenic construct comprised of a zif268/egr1 immediate-early gene promoter and a gene for normal Venus fluorescent protein with a membrane tag converted promoter activity into long-life fluorescent proteins, which was thought to describe a facet of neuronal activity history by summing neuronal activity. In addition to mapping the immediate-early gene-immunopositive cells, this method helped demonstrate the functionality of the lateral habenular nucleus (LHb). During postnatal development, the LHb was activated between postnatal days 10 and 16. The water-immersion restraint stress also activated the LHb over a similar period. LHb activation was functionally lateralized, but had no directional bias at the population level. Moreover, the posterior LHb was activated in the early stage after the stress, while the anterior LHb was activated in the later stage. Our results indicate lateralization, maturation, and anteroposterior topography of the LHb during postnatal development and the stress response.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hiroyuki Ichijo
- Department of Anatomy, Graduate School of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Toyama, Toyama 930-0194, Japan; Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Division of Biomedical Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba 305-8575, Japan.
| | - Michito Hamada
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Division of Biomedical Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba 305-8575, Japan
| | - Satoru Takahashi
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Division of Biomedical Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba 305-8575, Japan; Laboratory Animal Resource Center, Division of Biomedical Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba 305-8575, Japan
| | - Makoto Kobayashi
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Biology, Division of Biomedical Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba 305-8575, Japan
| | - Takeharu Nagai
- The Institute of Scientific and Industrial Research, Osaka University, Ibaraki 567-0047, Japan
| | - Tomoko Toyama
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Division of Biomedical Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba 305-8575, Japan
| | - Masahumi Kawaguchi
- Department of Anatomy, Graduate School of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Toyama, Toyama 930-0194, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
The study of psychiatric disease genes and drugs in zebrafish. Curr Opin Neurobiol 2014; 30:122-30. [PMID: 25523356 DOI: 10.1016/j.conb.2014.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2014] [Revised: 11/26/2014] [Accepted: 12/01/2014] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Mutations associated with psychiatric disease are being identified, but it remains unclear how the affected genes contribute to disease. Zebrafish is an emerging model to study psychiatric disease genes with a rich repertoire of phenotyping tools. Recent zebrafish research has uncovered potential developmental phenotypes for genes associated with psychiatric disorders, while drug screens have behaviorally characterized small molecules and identified new classes of drugs. Behavioral studies have led to promising models for endophenotypes of psychiatric diseases. While further research is needed to firmly link these models to psychiatric disorders, they are valuable tools for phenotyping genetic mutations and drugs. Recently developed tools in genome editing and in vivo imaging promise additional insights into the processes disrupted by mutations in psychiatric disease genes.
Collapse
|
33
|
Feierstein CE, Portugues R, Orger MB. Seeing the whole picture: A comprehensive imaging approach to functional mapping of circuits in behaving zebrafish. Neuroscience 2014; 296:26-38. [PMID: 25433239 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2014.11.046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2014] [Revised: 11/07/2014] [Accepted: 11/19/2014] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
In recent years, the zebrafish has emerged as an appealing model system to tackle questions relating to the neural circuit basis of behavior. This can be attributed not just to the growing use of genetically tractable model organisms, but also in large part to the rapid advances in optical techniques for neuroscience, which are ideally suited for application to the small, transparent brain of the larval fish. Many characteristic features of vertebrate brains, from gross anatomy down to particular circuit motifs and cell-types, as well as conserved behaviors, can be found in zebrafish even just a few days post fertilization, and, at this early stage, the physical size of the brain makes it possible to analyze neural activity in a comprehensive fashion. In a recent study, we used a systematic and unbiased imaging method to record the pattern of activity dynamics throughout the whole brain of larval zebrafish during a simple visual behavior, the optokinetic response (OKR). This approach revealed the broadly distributed network of neurons that were active during the behavior and provided insights into the fine-scale functional architecture in the brain, inter-individual variability, and the spatial distribution of behaviorally relevant signals. Combined with mapping anatomical and functional connectivity, targeted electrophysiological recordings, and genetic labeling of specific populations, this comprehensive approach in zebrafish provides an unparalleled opportunity to study complete circuits in a behaving vertebrate animal.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- C E Feierstein
- Champalimaud Neuroscience Programme, Champalimaud Centre for the Unknown, Avenida Brasília, Doca de Pedrouços, Lisbon 1400-038, Portugal
| | - R Portugues
- Max Planck Institute of Neurobiology, Am Klopferspitz 18, 82152, Germany
| | - M B Orger
- Champalimaud Neuroscience Programme, Champalimaud Centre for the Unknown, Avenida Brasília, Doca de Pedrouços, Lisbon 1400-038, Portugal.
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Belle M, Godefroy D, Dominici C, Heitz-Marchaland C, Zelina P, Hellal F, Bradke F, Chédotal A. A simple method for 3D analysis of immunolabeled axonal tracts in a transparent nervous system. Cell Rep 2014; 9:1191-201. [PMID: 25456121 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2014.10.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 132] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2014] [Revised: 10/10/2014] [Accepted: 10/14/2014] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Clearing techniques have been developed to transparentize mouse brains, thereby preserving 3D structure, but their complexity has limited their use. Here, we show that immunolabeling of axonal tracts followed by optical clearing with solvents (3DISCO) and light-sheet microscopy reveals brain connectivity in mouse embryos and postnatal brains. We show that the Robo3 receptor is selectively expressed by medial habenula axons forming the fasciculus retroflexus (FR) and analyzed the development of this commissural tract in mutants of the Slit/Robo and DCC/Netrin pathways. Netrin-1 and DCC are required to attract FR axons to the midline, but the two mutants exhibit specific and heterogeneous axon guidance defects. Moreover, floor-plate-specific deletion of Slit ligands with a conditional Slit2 allele perturbs not only midline crossing by FR axons but also their anteroposterior distribution. In conclusion, this method represents a unique and powerful imaging tool to study axonal connectivity in mutant mice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Morgane Belle
- Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Université Paris 06, UMRS 968, Institut de la Vision, Paris 75012, France; INSERM, UMRS 968, Institut de la Vision, Paris 75012, France; CNRS, UMR 7210, Paris 75012, France
| | - David Godefroy
- Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Université Paris 06, UMRS 968, Institut de la Vision, Paris 75012, France; INSERM, UMRS 968, Institut de la Vision, Paris 75012, France; CNRS, UMR 7210, Paris 75012, France
| | - Chloé Dominici
- Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Université Paris 06, UMRS 968, Institut de la Vision, Paris 75012, France; INSERM, UMRS 968, Institut de la Vision, Paris 75012, France; CNRS, UMR 7210, Paris 75012, France
| | - Céline Heitz-Marchaland
- Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Université Paris 06, UMRS 968, Institut de la Vision, Paris 75012, France; INSERM, UMRS 968, Institut de la Vision, Paris 75012, France; CNRS, UMR 7210, Paris 75012, France
| | - Pavol Zelina
- Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Université Paris 06, UMRS 968, Institut de la Vision, Paris 75012, France; INSERM, UMRS 968, Institut de la Vision, Paris 75012, France; CNRS, UMR 7210, Paris 75012, France
| | - Farida Hellal
- Deutsches Zentrum für Neurodegenerative Erkrankungen (DZNE), Axon Growth and Regeneration, Ludwig-Erhard-Allee 2, 53175 Bonn, Germany
| | - Frank Bradke
- Deutsches Zentrum für Neurodegenerative Erkrankungen (DZNE), Axon Growth and Regeneration, Ludwig-Erhard-Allee 2, 53175 Bonn, Germany
| | - Alain Chédotal
- Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Université Paris 06, UMRS 968, Institut de la Vision, Paris 75012, France; INSERM, UMRS 968, Institut de la Vision, Paris 75012, France; CNRS, UMR 7210, Paris 75012, France.
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Kctd12 and Ulk2 partner to regulate dendritogenesis and behavior in the habenular nuclei. PLoS One 2014; 9:e110280. [PMID: 25329151 PMCID: PMC4203773 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0110280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2014] [Accepted: 09/15/2014] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The habenular nuclei of the limbic system regulate responses, such as anxiety, to aversive stimuli in the environment. The habenulae receive inputs from the telencephalon via elaborate dendrites that form in the center of the nuclei. The kinase Ulk2 positively regulates dendritogenesis on habenular neurons, and in turn is negatively regulated by the cytoplasmic protein Kctd12. Given that the habenulae are a nexus in the aversive response circuit, we suspected that incomplete habenular dendritogenesis would have profound implications for behavior. We find that Ulk2, which interacts with Kctd12 proteins via a small proline-serine rich domain, promotes branching and elaboration of dendrites. Loss of Kctd12 results in increased branching/elaboration and decreased anxiety. We conclude that fine-tuning of habenular dendritogenesis during development is essential for appropriate behavioral responses to negative stimuli.
Collapse
|
36
|
Hüsken U, Stickney HL, Gestri G, Bianco IH, Faro A, Young RM, Roussigne M, Hawkins TA, Beretta CA, Brinkmann I, Paolini A, Jacinto R, Albadri S, Dreosti E, Tsalavouta M, Schwarz Q, Cavodeassi F, Barth AK, Wen L, Zhang B, Blader P, Yaksi E, Poggi L, Zigman M, Lin S, Wilson SW, Carl M. Tcf7l2 is required for left-right asymmetric differentiation of habenular neurons. Curr Biol 2014; 24:2217-27. [PMID: 25201686 PMCID: PMC4194317 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2014.08.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2012] [Revised: 06/11/2014] [Accepted: 08/02/2014] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although left-right asymmetries are common features of nervous systems, their developmental bases are largely unknown. In the zebrafish epithalamus, dorsal habenular neurons adopt medial (dHbm) and lateral (dHbl) subnuclear character at very different frequencies on the left and right sides. The left-sided parapineal promotes the elaboration of dHbl character in the left habenula, albeit by an unknown mechanism. Likewise, the genetic pathways acting within habenular neurons to control their asymmetric differentiated character are unknown. RESULTS In a forward genetic screen for mutations that result in loss of habenular asymmetry, we identified two mutant alleles of tcf7l2, a gene that encodes a transcriptional regulator of Wnt signaling. In tcf7l2 mutants, most neurons on both sides differentiate with dHbl identity. Consequently, the habenulae develop symmetrically, with both sides adopting a pronounced leftward character. Tcf7l2 acts cell automously in nascent equipotential neurons, and on the right side, it promotes dHbm and suppresses dHbl differentiation. On the left, the parapineal prevents this Tcf7l2-dependent process, thereby promoting dHbl differentiation. CONCLUSIONS Tcf7l2 is essential for lateralized fate selection by habenular neurons that can differentiate along two alternative pathways, thereby leading to major neural circuit asymmetries.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ulrike Hüsken
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Ludolf-Krehl-Strasse 13-17, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Heather L Stickney
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University College London, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Gaia Gestri
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University College London, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Isaac H Bianco
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University College London, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Ana Faro
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University College London, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Rodrigo M Young
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University College London, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Myriam Roussigne
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University College London, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, UK; Centre de Biologie du Développement (CDB), UPS, Université de Toulouse, 118 Route de Narbonne, 31062, France; CNRS, CDB UMR 5547, 31062 Toulouse, France
| | - Thomas A Hawkins
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University College London, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Carlo A Beretta
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Ludolf-Krehl-Strasse 13-17, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Irena Brinkmann
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Ludolf-Krehl-Strasse 13-17, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Alessio Paolini
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Ludolf-Krehl-Strasse 13-17, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Raquel Jacinto
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Ludolf-Krehl-Strasse 13-17, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Shahad Albadri
- Centre for Organismal Studies, Heidelberg University, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Elena Dreosti
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University College London, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, UK; Neuroelectronics Research Flanders, 3001 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Matina Tsalavouta
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University College London, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Quenten Schwarz
- Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London EC1V 9EL, UK
| | - Florencia Cavodeassi
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University College London, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Anukampa K Barth
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University College London, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Lu Wen
- Key Laboratory of Cell Proliferation and Differentiation of the Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Bo Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Cell Proliferation and Differentiation of the Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Patrick Blader
- Centre de Biologie du Développement (CDB), UPS, Université de Toulouse, 118 Route de Narbonne, 31062, France; CNRS, CDB UMR 5547, 31062 Toulouse, France
| | - Emre Yaksi
- Neuroelectronics Research Flanders, 3001 Leuven, Belgium; Vlaams Instituut voor Biotechnologie, 3001 Leuven, Belgium; KU Leuven, 3001 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Lucia Poggi
- Centre for Organismal Studies, Heidelberg University, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Mihaela Zigman
- Department of Molecular Evolution and Genomics, Centre for Organismal Studies (COS), Heidelberg University, Im Neuenheimer Feld 329, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Shuo Lin
- Key Laboratory of Cell Proliferation and Differentiation of the Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China; Department of Molecular, Cell, and Developmental Biology, University of California, Los Angeles, 621 Charles E. Young Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Stephen W Wilson
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University College London, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, UK.
| | - Matthias Carl
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Ludolf-Krehl-Strasse 13-17, 68167 Mannheim, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
deCarvalho TN, Subedi A, Rock J, Harfe BD, Thisse C, Thisse B, Halpern ME, Hong E. Neurotransmitter map of the asymmetric dorsal habenular nuclei of zebrafish. Genesis 2014; 52:636-55. [PMID: 24753112 DOI: 10.1002/dvg.22785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2014] [Revised: 04/16/2014] [Accepted: 04/18/2014] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The role of the habenular nuclei in modulating fear and reward pathways has sparked a renewed interest in this conserved forebrain region. The bilaterally paired habenular nuclei, each consisting of a medial/dorsal and lateral/ventral nucleus, can be further divided into discrete subdomains whose neuronal populations, precise connectivity, and specific functions are not well understood. An added complexity is that the left and right habenulae show pronounced morphological differences in many non-mammalian species. Notably, the dorsal habenulae of larval zebrafish provide a vertebrate genetic model to probe the development and functional significance of brain asymmetry. Previous reports have described a number of genes that are expressed in the zebrafish habenulae, either in bilaterally symmetric patterns or more extensively on one side of the brain than the other. The goal of our study was to generate a comprehensive map of the zebrafish dorsal habenular nuclei, by delineating the relationship between gene expression domains, comparing the extent of left-right asymmetry at larval and adult stages, and identifying potentially functional subnuclear regions as defined by neurotransmitter phenotype. Although many aspects of habenular organization appear conserved with rodents, the zebrafish habenulae also possess unique properties that may underlie lateralization of their functions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tagide N deCarvalho
- Department of Embryology, Carnegie Institution for Science, Baltimore, Maryland
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
38
|
Zou M, De Koninck P, Neve RL, Friedrich RW. Fast gene transfer into the adult zebrafish brain by herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) and electroporation: methods and optogenetic applications. Front Neural Circuits 2014; 8:41. [PMID: 24834028 PMCID: PMC4018551 DOI: 10.3389/fncir.2014.00041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2014] [Accepted: 04/04/2014] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
The zebrafish has various advantages as a model organism to analyze the structure and function of neural circuits but efficient viruses or other tools for fast gene transfer are lacking. We show that transgenes can be introduced directly into the adult zebrafish brain by herpes simplex type I viruses (HSV-1) or electroporation. We developed a new procedure to target electroporation to defined brain areas and identified promoters that produced strong long-term expression. The fast workflow of electroporation was exploited to express multiple channelrhodopsin-2 variants and genetically encoded calcium indicators in telencephalic neurons for measurements of neuronal activity and synaptic connectivity. The results demonstrate that HSV-1 and targeted electroporation are efficient tools for gene delivery into the zebrafish brain, similar to adeno-associated viruses and lentiviruses in other species. These methods fill an important gap in the spectrum of molecular tools for zebrafish and are likely to have a wide range of applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ming Zou
- Friedrich Miescher Institute for Biomedical Research Basel, Switzerland ; University of Basel Basel, Switzerland
| | - Paul De Koninck
- Friedrich Miescher Institute for Biomedical Research Basel, Switzerland ; Institut Universitaire en Santé Mentale de Québec Québec, QC, Canada ; Département de Biochimie, Microbiologie et Bio-informatique, Université Laval Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Rachael L Neve
- McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Rainer W Friedrich
- Friedrich Miescher Institute for Biomedical Research Basel, Switzerland ; University of Basel Basel, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Garric L, Ronsin B, Roussigné M, Booton S, Gamse JT, Dufourcq P, Blader P. Pitx2c ensures habenular asymmetry by restricting parapineal cell number. Development 2014; 141:1572-9. [PMID: 24598158 DOI: 10.1242/dev.100305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Left-right (L/R) asymmetries in the brain are thought to underlie lateralised cognitive functions. Understanding how neuroanatomical asymmetries are established has been achieved through the study of the zebrafish epithalamus. Morphological symmetry in the epithalamus is broken by leftward migration of the parapineal, which is required for the subsequent elaboration of left habenular identity; the habenular nuclei flank the midline and show L/R asymmetries in marker expression and connectivity. The Nodal target pitx2c is expressed in the left epithalamus, but nothing is known about its role during the establishment of asymmetry in the brain. We show that abrogating Pitx2c function leads to the right habenula adopting aspects of left character, and to an increase in parapineal cell numbers. Parapineal ablation in Pitx2c loss of function results in right habenular isomerism, indicating that the parapineal is required for the left character detected in the right habenula in this context. Partial parapineal ablation in the absence of Pitx2c, however, reduces the number of parapineal cells to wild-type levels and restores habenular asymmetry. We provide evidence suggesting that antagonism between Nodal and Pitx2c activities sets an upper limit on parapineal cell numbers. We conclude that restricting parapineal cell number is crucial for the correct elaboration of epithalamic asymmetry.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laurence Garric
- Université de Toulouse, UPS, Centre de Biologie du Développement (CBD), 118 route de Narbonne, F-31062 Toulouse, France
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
40
|
Signore I, Concha M. Genetics: A Common Origin for Neuronal Asymmetries? Curr Biol 2014; 24:R201-4. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2014.01.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
|
41
|
Jetti SK, Vendrell-Llopis N, Yaksi E. Spontaneous activity governs olfactory representations in spatially organized habenular microcircuits. Curr Biol 2014; 24:434-9. [PMID: 24508164 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2014.01.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2013] [Revised: 11/21/2013] [Accepted: 01/08/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
The medial habenula relays information from the sensory areas via the interpeduncular nucleus to the periaqueductal gray that regulates animal behavior under stress conditions. Ablation of the dorsal habenula (dHb) in zebrafish, which is equivalent to the mammalian medial habenula, was shown to perturb experience-dependent fear. Therefore, understanding dHb function is important for understanding the neural basis of fear. In zebrafish, the dHb receives inputs from the mitral cells (MCs) of the olfactory bulb (OB), and odors can trigger distinct behaviors (e.g., feeding, courtship, alarm). However, it is unclear how the dHb processes olfactory information and how these computations relate to behavior. In this study, we demonstrate that the odor responses in the dHb are asymmetric and spatially organized despite the unorganized OB inputs. Moreover, we show that the spontaneous dHb activity is not random but structured into functionally and spatially organized clusters of neurons, which reflects the favored states of the dHb network. These dHb clusters are also preserved during odor stimulation and govern olfactory responses. Finally, we show that functional dHb clusters overlap with genetically defined dHb neurons, which regulate experience-dependent fear. Thus, we propose that the dHb is composed of functionally, spatially, and genetically distinct microcircuits that regulate different behavioral programs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Suresh Kumar Jetti
- NERF, Kapeldreef 75, 3001 Leuven, Belgium,; KU Leuven, Kapeldreef 75, 3001 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Nuria Vendrell-Llopis
- NERF, Kapeldreef 75, 3001 Leuven, Belgium,; KU Leuven, Kapeldreef 75, 3001 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Emre Yaksi
- NERF, Kapeldreef 75, 3001 Leuven, Belgium,; KU Leuven, Kapeldreef 75, 3001 Leuven, Belgium; VIB, Kapeldreef 75, 3001 Leuven, Belgium.
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Dreosti E, Vendrell Llopis N, Carl M, Yaksi E, Wilson SW. Left-right asymmetry is required for the habenulae to respond to both visual and olfactory stimuli. Curr Biol 2014; 24:440-5. [PMID: 24508167 PMCID: PMC3969106 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2014.01.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2013] [Revised: 01/06/2014] [Accepted: 01/09/2014] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Left-right asymmetries are most likely a universal feature of bilaterian nervous systems and may serve to increase neural capacity by specializing equivalent structures on left and right sides for distinct roles [1]. However, little is known about how asymmetries are encoded within vertebrate neural circuits and how lateralization influences processing of information in the brain. Consequently, it remains unclear the extent to which lateralization of the nervous system is important for normal cognitive and other brain functions and whether defects in lateralization contribute to neurological deficits [2]. Here we show that sensory responses to light and odor are lateralized in larval zebrafish habenulae and that loss of brain asymmetry leads to concomitant loss of responsiveness to either visual or olfactory stimuli. We find that in wild-type zebrafish, most habenular neurons responding to light are present on the left, whereas neurons responding to odor are more frequent on the right. Manipulations that reverse the direction of brain asymmetry reverse the functional properties of habenular neurons, whereas manipulations that generate either double-left- or double-right-sided brains lead to loss of habenular responsiveness to either odor or light, respectively. Our results indicate that loss of brain lateralization has significant consequences upon sensory processing and circuit function. Habenular neuron responses to light and odor stimuli are lateralized Lateralized habenular light responses depend upon the eyes Loss of brain asymmetry leads to a loss of either light or odor responses
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elena Dreosti
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University College London, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, UK; NERF, Kapeldreef 75, 3001 Leuven, Belgium.
| | - Nuria Vendrell Llopis
- NERF, Kapeldreef 75, 3001 Leuven, Belgium; KU Leuven, Kapeldreef 75, 3001 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Matthias Carl
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University College London, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, UK; Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Ludolf-Krehl-Strasse 13-17, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Emre Yaksi
- NERF, Kapeldreef 75, 3001 Leuven, Belgium; KU Leuven, Kapeldreef 75, 3001 Leuven, Belgium; VIB, Kapeldreef 75, 3001 Leuven, Belgium.
| | - Stephen W Wilson
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University College London, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Pavlou S, Astell K, Kasioulis I, Gakovic M, Baldock R, van Heyningen V, Coutinho P. Pleiotropic effects of Sox2 during the development of the zebrafish epithalamus. PLoS One 2014; 9:e87546. [PMID: 24498133 PMCID: PMC3909122 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0087546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2013] [Accepted: 12/26/2013] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
The zebrafish epithalamus is part of the diencephalon and encompasses three major components: the pineal, the parapineal and the habenular nuclei. Using sox2 knockdown, we show here that this key transcriptional regulator has pleiotropic effects during the development of these structures. Sox2 negatively regulates pineal neurogenesis. Also, Sox2 is identified as the unknown factor responsible for pineal photoreceptor prepatterning and performs this function independently of the BMP signaling. The correct levels of sox2 are critical for the functionally important asymmetrical positioning of the parapineal organ and for the migration of parapineal cells as a coherent structure. Deviations from this strict control result in defects associated with abnormal habenular laterality, which we have documented and quantified in sox2 morphants.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sofia Pavlou
- Biomedical Systems Analysis Section, Medical Developmental Genetics Section, Medical Research Council Human Genetics Unit, Medical Research Council Institute of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Katy Astell
- Biomedical Systems Analysis Section, Medical Developmental Genetics Section, Medical Research Council Human Genetics Unit, Medical Research Council Institute of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Ioannis Kasioulis
- Biomedical Systems Analysis Section, Medical Developmental Genetics Section, Medical Research Council Human Genetics Unit, Medical Research Council Institute of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Milica Gakovic
- Biomedical Systems Analysis Section, Medical Developmental Genetics Section, Medical Research Council Human Genetics Unit, Medical Research Council Institute of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Richard Baldock
- Biomedical Systems Analysis Section, Medical Developmental Genetics Section, Medical Research Council Human Genetics Unit, Medical Research Council Institute of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Veronica van Heyningen
- Biomedical Systems Analysis Section, Medical Developmental Genetics Section, Medical Research Council Human Genetics Unit, Medical Research Council Institute of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Pedro Coutinho
- Biomedical Systems Analysis Section, Medical Developmental Genetics Section, Medical Research Council Human Genetics Unit, Medical Research Council Institute of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Wu SY, de Borsetti NH, Bain EJ, Bulow CR, Gamse JT. Mediator subunit 12 coordinates intrinsic and extrinsic control of epithalamic development. Dev Biol 2014; 385:13-22. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2013.10.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2013] [Revised: 10/01/2013] [Accepted: 10/23/2013] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
|
45
|
Colombo A, Palma K, Armijo L, Mione M, Signore IA, Morales C, Guerrero N, Meynard MM, Pérez R, Suazo J, Marcelain K, Briones L, Härtel S, Wilson SW, Concha ML. Daam1a mediates asymmetric habenular morphogenesis by regulating dendritic and axonal outgrowth. Development 2013; 140:3997-4007. [PMID: 24046318 PMCID: PMC3775416 DOI: 10.1242/dev.091934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Although progress has been made in resolving the genetic pathways that specify neuronal asymmetries in the brain, little is known about genes that mediate the development of structural asymmetries between neurons on left and right. In this study, we identify daam1a as an asymmetric component of the signalling pathways leading to asymmetric morphogenesis of the habenulae in zebrafish. Daam1a is a member of the Formin family of actin-binding proteins and the extent of Daam1a expression in habenular neuron dendrites mirrors the asymmetric growth of habenular neuropil between left and right. Local loss and gain of Daam1a function affects neither cell number nor subtype organisation but leads to a decrease or increase of neuropil, respectively. Daam1a therefore plays a key role in the asymmetric growth of habenular neuropil downstream of the pathways that specify asymmetric cellular domains in the habenulae. In addition, Daam1a mediates the development of habenular efferent connectivity as local loss and gain of Daam1a function impairs or enhances, respectively, the growth of habenular neuron terminals in the interpeduncular nucleus. Abrogation of Daam1a disrupts the growth of both dendritic and axonal processes and results in disorganised filamentous actin and α-tubulin. Our results indicate that Daam1a plays a key role in asymmetric habenular morphogenesis mediating the growth of dendritic and axonal processes in dorsal habenular neurons.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alicia Colombo
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Independencia 1027, Santiago 8380453, Chile
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
46
|
Beretta CA, Dross N, Bankhead P, Carl M. The ventral habenulae of zebrafish develop in prosomere 2 dependent on Tcf7l2 function. Neural Dev 2013; 8:19. [PMID: 24067090 PMCID: PMC3827927 DOI: 10.1186/1749-8104-8-19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2013] [Accepted: 07/23/2013] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The conserved habenular neural circuit relays cognitive information from the forebrain into the ventral mid- and hindbrain. In zebrafish, the bilaterally formed habenulae in the dorsal diencephalon are made up of the asymmetric dorsal and symmetric ventral habenular nuclei, which are homologous to the medial and lateral nuclei respectively, in mammals. These structures have been implicated in various behaviors related to the serotonergic/dopaminergic neurotransmitter system. The dorsal habenulae develop adjacent to the medially positioned pineal complex. Their precursors differentiate into two main neuronal subpopulations which differ in size across brain hemispheres as signals from left-sided parapineal cells influence their differentiation program. Unlike the dorsal habenulae and despite their importance, the ventral habenulae have been poorly studied. It is not known which genetic programs underlie their development and why they are formed symmetrically, unlike the dorsal habenulae. A main reason for this lack of knowledge is that the vHb origin has remained elusive to date. Results To address these questions, we applied long-term 2-photon microscopy time-lapse analysis of habenular neural circuit development combined with depth color coding in a transgenic line, labeling all main components of the network. Additional laser ablations and cell tracking experiments using the photoconvertible PSmOrange system in GFP transgenic fish show that the ventral habenulae develop in prosomere 2, posterior and lateral to the dorsal habenulae in the dorsal thalamus. Mutant analysis demonstrates that the ventral habenular nuclei only develop in the presence of functional Tcf7l2, a downstream modulator of the Wnt signaling cascade. Consistently, photoconverted thalamic tcf7l2exl/exl mutant cells do not contribute to habenula formation. Conclusions We show in vivo that dorsal and ventral habenulae develop in different regions of prosomere 2. In the process of ventral habenula formation, functional tcf7l2 gene activity is required and in its absence, ventral habenular neurons do not develop. Influenced by signals from parapineal cells, dorsal habenular neurons differentiate at a time at which ventral habenular cells are still on their way towards their final destination. Thus, our finding may provide a simple explanation as to why only neuronal populations of the dorsal habenulae differ in size across brain hemispheres.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carlo A Beretta
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Ludolf-Krehl-Strasse 13-17, Mannheim 68167, Germany.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
47
|
Pahs G, Rankin P, Helen Cross J, Croft L, Northam GB, Liegeois F, Greenway S, Harrison S, Vargha-Khadem F, Baldeweg T. Asymmetry of planum temporale constrains interhemispheric language plasticity in children with focal epilepsy. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013; 136:3163-75. [PMID: 24022474 PMCID: PMC4038779 DOI: 10.1093/brain/awt225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Reorganization of eloquent cortex enables rescue of language functions in patients who sustain brain injury. Individuals with left-sided, early-onset focal epilepsy often show atypical (i.e. bilateral or right-sided) language dominance. Surprisingly, many patients fail to show such interhemispheric shift of language despite having major epileptogenic lesions in close proximity to eloquent cortex. Although a number of epilepsy-related factors may promote interhemispheric plasticity, it has remained unexplored if neuroanatomical asymmetries linked to human language dominance modify the likelihood of atypical lateralization. Here we examined the asymmetry of the planum temporale, one of the most striking asymmetries in the human brain, in relation to language lateralization in children with left-sided focal epilepsy. Language functional magnetic resonance imaging was performed in 51 children with focal epilepsy and left-sided lesions and 36 healthy control subjects. We examined the association of language laterality with a range of potential clinical predictors and the asymmetry of the length of the planum temporale. Using voxel-based methods, we sought to determine the effect of lesion location (in the affected left hemisphere) and grey matter density (in the unaffected right hemisphere) on language laterality. Atypical language lateralization was observed in 19 patients (38%) and in four controls (11%). Language laterality was increasingly right-sided in patients who showed atypical handedness, a left perisylvian ictal electroencephalographic focus, and a lesion in left anterior superior temporal or inferior frontal regions. Most striking was the relationship between rightward asymmetry of the planum temporale and atypical language (R = 0.70, P < 0.0001); patients with a longer planum temporale in the right (unaffected) hemisphere were more likely to have atypical language dominance. Voxel-based regression analysis confirmed that increased grey matter density in the right temporo-parietal junction was correlated with right hemisphere lateralization of language. The length of the planum temporale in the right hemisphere was the main predictor of language lateralization in the epilepsy group, accounting for 48% of variance, with handedness accounting for only a further 5%. There was no correlation between language lateralization and planum temporale asymmetry in the control group. We conclude that asymmetry of the planum temporale may be unrelated to language lateralization in healthy individuals, but the size of the right, contra-lesional planum temporale region may reflect a ‘reserve capacity’ for interhemispheric language reorganization in the presence of a seizure focus and lesions within left perisylvian regions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gerald Pahs
- 1 Developmental Cognitive Neuroscience Unit, Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, WC1N 1EH, UK
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
48
|
|
49
|
Cerveny KL, Varga M, Wilson SW. Continued growth and circuit building in the anamniote visual system. Dev Neurobiol 2012; 72:328-45. [PMID: 21563317 DOI: 10.1002/dneu.20917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Fish and amphibia are capable of lifelong growth and regeneration. The two core components of their visual system, the retina and tectum both maintain small populations of stem cells that contribute new neurons and glia to these tissues as they grow. As the animals age, the initial retinal projections onto the tectum are continuously remodeled to maintain retinotopy. These properties raise several biological challenges related to the control of proliferation and differentiation of retinal and tectal stem cells. For instance, how do stem and progenitor cells integrate intrinsic and extrinsic cues to produce the appropriate type and number of cells needed by the growing tissue. Does retinal growth or neuronal activity influence tectal growth? What are the cellular and molecular mechanisms that enable retinal axons to shift their tectal connections as these two tissues grow in incongruent patterns? While we cannot yet provide answers to these questions, this review attempts to supply background and context, laying the ground work for new investigations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kara L Cerveny
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University College, London, UK
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
50
|
Roussigne M, Blader P, Wilson SW. Breaking symmetry: the zebrafish as a model for understanding left-right asymmetry in the developing brain. Dev Neurobiol 2012; 72:269-81. [PMID: 22553774 DOI: 10.1002/dneu.20885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
How does left-right asymmetry develop in the brain and how does the resultant asymmetric circuitry impact on brain function and lateralized behaviors? By enabling scientists to address these questions at the levels of genes, neurons, circuitry and behavior,the zebrafish model system provides a route to resolve the complexity of brain lateralization. In this review, we present the progress made towards characterizing the nature of the gene networks and the sequence of morphogenetic events involved in the asymmetric development of zebrafish epithalamus. In an attempt to integrate the recent extensive knowledge into a working model and to identify the future challenges,we discuss how insights gained at a cellular/developmental level can be linked to the data obtained at a molecular/genetic level. Finally, we present some evolutionary thoughts and discuss how significant discoveries made in zebrafish should provide entry points to better understand the evolutionary origins of brain lateralization.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Myriam Roussigne
- Universite Paul Sabatier, Centre de Biologie du Developpement,Toulouse, France.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|