1
|
Kołodziej M, Waliszewski P. Neuronal Fractal Dynamics. ADVANCES IN NEUROBIOLOGY 2024; 36:191-201. [PMID: 38468033 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-47606-8_9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/13/2024]
Abstract
Synapse formation is a unique biological phenomenon. The molecular biological perspective of this phenomenon is different from the fractal geometrical one. However, these perspectives are not mutually exclusive and supplement each other. The cornerstone of the first one is a chain of biochemical reactions with the Markov property, that is, a deterministic, conditional, memoryless process ordered in time and in space, in which the consecutive stages are determined by the expression of some regulatory proteins. The coordination of molecular and cellular events leading to synapse formation occurs in fractal time space, that is, the space that is not only the arena of events but also actively influences those events. This time space emerges owing to coupling of time and space through nonlinear dynamics. The process of synapse formation possesses fractal dynamics with non-Gaussian distribution of probability and a reduced number of molecular Markov chains ready for transfer of biologically relevant information.
Collapse
|
2
|
Hyung S, Park JH, Jung K. Application of optogenetic glial cells to neuron-glial communication. Front Cell Neurosci 2023; 17:1249043. [PMID: 37868193 PMCID: PMC10585272 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2023.1249043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Optogenetic techniques combine optics and genetics to enable cell-specific targeting and precise spatiotemporal control of excitable cells, and they are increasingly being employed. One of the most significant advantages of the optogenetic approach is that it allows for the modulation of nearby cells or circuits with millisecond precision, enabling researchers to gain a better understanding of the complex nervous system. Furthermore, optogenetic neuron activation permits the regulation of information processing in the brain, including synaptic activity and transmission, and also promotes nerve structure development. However, the optimal conditions remain unclear, and further research is required to identify the types of cells that can most effectively and precisely control nerve function. Recent studies have described optogenetic glial manipulation for coordinating the reciprocal communication between neurons and glia. Optogenetically stimulated glial cells can modulate information processing in the central nervous system and provide structural support for nerve fibers in the peripheral nervous system. These advances promote the effective use of optogenetics, although further experiments are needed. This review describes the critical role of glial cells in the nervous system and reviews the optogenetic applications of several types of glial cells, as well as their significance in neuron-glia interactions. Together, it briefly discusses the therapeutic potential and feasibility of optogenetics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sujin Hyung
- Precision Medicine Research Institute, Samsung Medical Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Medicine, Sungkyunkwan University, Samsung Medical Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Ji-Hye Park
- Graduate School of Cancer Science and Policy, Cancer Biomedical Science, National Cancer Center, Goyang-si, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyuhwan Jung
- DAWINBIO Inc., Hanam-si, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Aydin O, Passaro AP, Raman R, Spellicy SE, Weinberg RP, Kamm RD, Sample M, Truskey GA, Zartman J, Dar RD, Palacios S, Wang J, Tordoff J, Montserrat N, Bashir R, Saif MTA, Weiss R. Principles for the design of multicellular engineered living systems. APL Bioeng 2022; 6:010903. [PMID: 35274072 PMCID: PMC8893975 DOI: 10.1063/5.0076635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2021] [Accepted: 02/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Remarkable progress in bioengineering over the past two decades has enabled the formulation of fundamental design principles for a variety of medical and non-medical applications. These advancements have laid the foundation for building multicellular engineered living systems (M-CELS) from biological parts, forming functional modules integrated into living machines. These cognizant design principles for living systems encompass novel genetic circuit manipulation, self-assembly, cell-cell/matrix communication, and artificial tissues/organs enabled through systems biology, bioinformatics, computational biology, genetic engineering, and microfluidics. Here, we introduce design principles and a blueprint for forward production of robust and standardized M-CELS, which may undergo variable reiterations through the classic design-build-test-debug cycle. This Review provides practical and theoretical frameworks to forward-design, control, and optimize novel M-CELS. Potential applications include biopharmaceuticals, bioreactor factories, biofuels, environmental bioremediation, cellular computing, biohybrid digital technology, and experimental investigations into mechanisms of multicellular organisms normally hidden inside the "black box" of living cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Austin P. Passaro
- Regenerative Bioscience Center, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia 30602, USA
| | - Ritu Raman
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, USA
| | | | - Robert P. Weinberg
- School of Pharmacy, Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA
| | | | - Matthew Sample
- Center for Ethics and Law in the Life Sciences, Leibniz Universität Hannover, 30167 Hannover, Germany
| | - George A. Truskey
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina 27708, USA
| | - Jeremiah Zartman
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana 46556, USA
| | - Roy D. Dar
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, USA
| | - Sebastian Palacios
- Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts, 02139, USA
| | - Jason Wang
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, USA
| | - Jesse Tordoff
- Computational and Systems Biology Program, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, USA
| | - Nuria Montserrat
- Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - M. Taher A. Saif
- Department of Mechanical Science and Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, USA
| | - Ron Weiss
- Author to whom correspondence should be addressed:
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Li L, Shi Y. When glia meet induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). Mol Cell Neurosci 2020; 109:103565. [PMID: 33068719 PMCID: PMC10506562 DOI: 10.1016/j.mcn.2020.103565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2020] [Revised: 09/20/2020] [Accepted: 10/06/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The importance of glial cells, mainly astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, and microglia, in the central nervous system (CNS) has been increasingly appreciated. Recent advances have demonstrated the diversity of glial cells and their contribution to human CNS development, normal CNS functions, and disease progression. The uniqueness of human glial cells is also supported by multiple lines of evidence. With the discovery of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) and the progress of generating glial cells from human iPSCs, there are numerous studies to model CNS diseases using human iPSC-derived glial cells. Here we summarize the basic characteristics of glial cells, with the focus on their classical functions, heterogeneity, and uniqueness in human species. We further review the findings from recent studies that use iPSC-derived glial cells for CNS disease modeling. We conclude with promises and future directions of using iPSC-derived glial cells for CNS disease modeling.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Li Li
- Division of Stem Cell Biology, Department of Developmental and Stem Cell Biology, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, CA 91010, USA; Irell and Manella Graduate School of Biological Sciences, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Yanhong Shi
- Division of Stem Cell Biology, Department of Developmental and Stem Cell Biology, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, CA 91010, USA; Irell and Manella Graduate School of Biological Sciences, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, CA 91010, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Liu L, Koo Y, Russell T, Gay E, Li Y, Yun Y. Three-dimensional brain-on-chip model using human iPSC-derived GABAergic neurons and astrocytes: Butyrylcholinesterase post-treatment for acute malathion exposure. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0230335. [PMID: 32163499 PMCID: PMC7067464 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0230335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2019] [Accepted: 02/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Organophosphates (OPs) induce acute and chronic neurotoxicity, primarily by inhibiting acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity as well as by necrosis, and apoptosis. Butyrylcholinesterase (BuChE), an exogenous bioscavenger of OPs, can be used as a treatment for OP exposure. It is prerequisite to develop in vitro brain models that can study BuChE post-treatment for acute OP exposure. In this study, we developed a three-dimensional (3D) brain-on-chip platform with human induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived neurons and astrocytes to simulate human brain behavior. The platform consists of two compartments: 1) a hydrogel embedded with human iPSC-derived GABAergic neurons and astrocytes and 2) a perfusion channel with dynamic medium flow. The brain tissue constructs were exposed to Malathion (MT) at various concentrations and then treated with BuChE after 20 minutes of MT exposure. Results show that the iPSC-derived neurons and astrocytes directly interacted and formed synapses in the 3D matrix, and that treatment with BuChE improved viability after MT exposure up to a concentration of 10−3 M. We conclude that the 3D brain-on-chip platform with human iPSC-derived brain cells is a suitable model to study the neurotoxicity of OP exposure and evaluate therapeutic compounds for treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lumei Liu
- FIT BEST Laboratory, Department of Chemical, Biological, and Bio Engineering, North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, Greensboro, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Youngmi Koo
- FIT BEST Laboratory, Department of Chemical, Biological, and Bio Engineering, North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, Greensboro, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Teal Russell
- FIT BEST Laboratory, Department of Chemical, Biological, and Bio Engineering, North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, Greensboro, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Elaine Gay
- Center for Drug Discovery, RTI International, Research Triangle Park, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Yan Li
- Chemical Engineering, Florida A&M University-Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida, United States of America
| | - Yeoheung Yun
- FIT BEST Laboratory, Department of Chemical, Biological, and Bio Engineering, North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, Greensboro, North Carolina, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Wellbourne-Wood J, Chatton JY. From Cultured Rodent Neurons to Human Brain Tissue: Model Systems for Pharmacological and Translational Neuroscience. ACS Chem Neurosci 2018; 9:1975-1985. [PMID: 29847093 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.8b00098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
To investigate the enormous complexity of the functional and pathological brain there are a number of possible experimental model systems to choose from. Depending on the research question choosing the appropriate model may not be a trivial task, and given the dynamic and intricate nature of an intact living brain several models might be needed to properly address certain questions. In this review, we aim to provide an overview of neural cell and tissue culture, reflecting on historic methodological milestones and providing a brief overview of the state-of-the-art. We additionally present an example of an effective model system pipeline, composed of dissociated mouse cultures, organotypics, acute mouse brain slices, and acute human brain slices, in that order. The sequential use of these four model systems allows a balance and progression from experimental control to human applicability, and provides a meta-model that can help validate basic research findings in a translational setting. We then conclude with a few remarks regarding the necessity of an integrated approach when performing translational and neuropharmacological studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joel Wellbourne-Wood
- Department of Fundamental Neurosciences, University of Lausanne, 1005 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Jean-Yves Chatton
- Department of Fundamental Neurosciences, University of Lausanne, 1005 Lausanne, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
mGlu5-mediated signalling in developing astrocyte and the pathogenesis of autism spectrum disorders. Curr Opin Neurobiol 2018; 48:139-145. [DOI: 10.1016/j.conb.2017.12.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2017] [Revised: 12/18/2017] [Accepted: 12/22/2017] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
|
8
|
Cell Biology of Astrocyte-Synapse Interactions. Neuron 2017; 96:697-708. [PMID: 29096081 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2017.09.056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 565] [Impact Index Per Article: 80.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2017] [Revised: 09/24/2017] [Accepted: 09/28/2017] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Astrocytes, the most abundant glial cells in the mammalian brain, are critical regulators of brain development and physiology through dynamic and often bidirectional interactions with neuronal synapses. Despite the clear importance of astrocytes for the establishment and maintenance of proper synaptic connectivity, our understanding of their role in brain function is still in its infancy. We propose that this is at least in part due to large gaps in our knowledge of the cell biology of astrocytes and the mechanisms they use to interact with synapses. In this review, we summarize some of the seminal findings that yield important insight into the cellular and molecular basis of astrocyte-neuron communication, focusing on the role of astrocytes in the development and remodeling of synapses. Furthermore, we pose some pressing questions that need to be addressed to advance our mechanistic understanding of the role of astrocytes in regulating synaptic development.
Collapse
|
9
|
Uzel SGM, Platt RJ, Subramanian V, Pearl TM, Rowlands CJ, Chan V, Boyer LA, So PTC, Kamm RD. Microfluidic device for the formation of optically excitable, three-dimensional, compartmentalized motor units. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2016; 2:e1501429. [PMID: 27493991 PMCID: PMC4972469 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.1501429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 144] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2015] [Accepted: 07/06/2016] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Motor units are the fundamental elements responsible for muscle movement. They are formed by lower motor neurons and their muscle targets, synapsed via neuromuscular junctions (NMJs). The loss of NMJs in neurodegenerative disorders (such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis or spinal muscle atrophy) or as a result of traumatic injuries affects millions of lives each year. Developing in vitro assays that closely recapitulate the physiology of neuromuscular tissues is crucial to understand the formation and maturation of NMJs, as well as to help unravel the mechanisms leading to their degeneration and repair. We present a microfluidic platform designed to coculture myoblast-derived muscle strips and motor neurons differentiated from mouse embryonic stem cells (ESCs) within a three-dimensional (3D) hydrogel. The device geometry mimics the spinal cord-limb physical separation by compartmentalizing the two cell types, which also facilitates the observation of 3D neurite outgrowth and remote muscle innervation. Moreover, the use of compliant pillars as anchors for muscle strips provides a quantitative functional readout of force generation. Finally, photosensitizing the ESC provides a pool of source cells that can be differentiated into optically excitable motor neurons, allowing for spatiodynamic, versatile, and noninvasive in vitro control of the motor units.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sebastien G. M. Uzel
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Randall J. Platt
- Department of Biological Engineering, MIT, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | | | - Taylor M. Pearl
- Department of Biological Engineering, MIT, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | | | - Vincent Chan
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | | | - Peter T. C. So
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
- Department of Biological Engineering, MIT, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
- BioSystems and Micromechanics (BioSyM) IRG, Singapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Roger D. Kamm
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
- Department of Biological Engineering, MIT, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
- BioSystems and Micromechanics (BioSyM) IRG, Singapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology, Singapore, Singapore
- Corresponding author.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Cui Q, Xie P. Correlation Between Daam2 Expression Changes and Demyelination in Guillain-Barre Syndrome. Cell Mol Neurobiol 2015; 36:683-8. [PMID: 26293489 DOI: 10.1007/s10571-015-0248-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2015] [Accepted: 07/28/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Wnt signaling has been implicated in developmental and regenerative myelination of the CNS and PNS. The present translational investigation was undertaken to assess whether a soluble factor like Wnt may be responsible for the critically important skeletal muscle neuromuscular junction-Schwann cell communication. Specifically, three key aspects were examined: (a) whether the expression of Daam2, disheveled-associated activator of morphogenesis, a key Wnt signaling downstream effector, and PIP5K is changed in the demyelinating conditions and under different stages of progress of clinical recovery of patients with Guillain-Barre syndrome; (b) whether critical protein interactions of Daam2 with disheveled and Arf6 are changed; and (c) whether expression of c-Jun/Krox, a key negative regulator of remyelination, is changed. Daam2 was elevated in acute presentation in GB syndrome. Reduction occurred with clinical improvement of the patients. With progressive clinical improvement, c-Jun/Krox expression significantly reduced with time. Wnt signaling likely causes immediate early gene activation and transcriptional shutdown of factors critical for formation and maintenance of myelination. Whether the findings of the present study are specific to pathophysiology of demyelination in acute infectious polyradiculopathy and multiple sclerosis or a generalized aspect of demyelinating diseases merits to be examined in future studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Quanquan Cui
- Department of Neurology, Hospital of Chongqing Armed Police Force, Chongqing, 404000, China
| | - Peng Xie
- Chongqing University of Medical Science, No.1 Yixueyuan Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing, 400016, China.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Ko CP, Robitaille R. Perisynaptic Schwann Cells at the Neuromuscular Synapse: Adaptable, Multitasking Glial Cells. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Biol 2015; 7:a020503. [PMID: 26430218 PMCID: PMC4588062 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a020503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
The neuromuscular junction (NMJ) is engineered to be a highly reliable synapse to carry the control of the motor commands of the nervous system over the muscles. Its development, organization, and synaptic properties are highly structured and regulated to support such reliability and efficacy. Yet, the NMJ is also highly plastic, able to react to injury and adapt to changes. This balance between structural stability and synaptic efficacy on one hand and structural plasticity and repair on another hand is made possible by the intricate regulation of perisynaptic Schwann cells, glial cells at this synapse. They regulate both the efficacy and structural plasticity of the NMJ in a dynamic, bidirectional manner owing to their ability to decode synaptic transmission and by their interactions via trophic-related factors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chien-Ping Ko
- Section of Neurobiology, Department of Biological Sciences, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California 90089-2520
| | - Richard Robitaille
- Département de Neurosciences, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec H3C 3J7, Canada Groupe de Recherche sur le Système Nerveux Central, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec H3C 3J7, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Chung WS, Allen NJ, Eroglu C. Astrocytes Control Synapse Formation, Function, and Elimination. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Biol 2015; 7:a020370. [PMID: 25663667 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a020370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 485] [Impact Index Per Article: 53.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Astrocytes, through their close associations with synapses, can monitor and alter synaptic function, thus actively controlling synaptic transmission in the adult brain. Besides their important role at adult synapses, in the last three decades a number of critical findings have highlighted the importance of astrocytes in the establishment of synaptic connectivity in the developing brain. In this article, we will review the key findings on astrocytic control of synapse formation, function, and elimination. First, we will summarize our current structural and functional understanding of astrocytes at the synapse. Then, we will discuss the cellular and molecular mechanisms through which developing and mature astrocytes instruct the formation, maturation, and refinement of synapses. Our aim is to provide an overview of astrocytes as important players in the establishment of a functional nervous system.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Won-Suk Chung
- Stanford University, School of Medicine, Department of Neurobiology, Stanford, California 94305
| | - Nicola J Allen
- Salk Institute for Biological Studies, Molecular Neurobiology Laboratory, La Jolla, California 92037
| | - Cagla Eroglu
- Duke University Medical Center, Cell Biology and Neurobiology Departments, Duke Institute for Brain Sciences, Durham, North Carolina 27710
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Uzel SGM, Pavesi A, Kamm RD. Microfabrication and microfluidics for muscle tissue models. PROGRESS IN BIOPHYSICS AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2014; 115:279-93. [PMID: 25175338 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbiomolbio.2014.08.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2014] [Accepted: 08/19/2014] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The relatively recent development of microfluidic systems with wide-ranging capabilities for generating realistic 2D or 3D systems with single or multiple cell types has given rise to an extensive collection of platform technologies useful in muscle tissue engineering. These new systems are aimed at (i) gaining fundamental understanding of muscle function, (ii) creating functional muscle constructs in vitro, and (iii) utilizing these constructs a variety of applications. Use of microfluidics to control the various stimuli that promote differentiation of multipotent cells into cardiac or skeletal muscle is first discussed. Next, systems that incorporate muscle cells to produce either 2D sheets or 3D tissues of contractile muscle are described with an emphasis on the more recent 3D platforms. These systems are useful for fundamental studies of muscle biology and can also be incorporated into drug screening assays. Applications are discussed for muscle actuators in the context of microrobotics and in miniaturized biological pumps. Finally, an important area of recent study involves coculture with cell types that either activate muscle or facilitate its function. Limitations of current designs and the potential for improving functionality for a wider range of applications is also discussed, with a look toward using current understanding and capabilities to design systems of greater realism, complexity and functionality.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sebastien G M Uzel
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 77 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Andrea Pavesi
- Singapore MIT Alliance for Research and Technology, BioSystems and Micromechanics, 1 CREATE way, #04-13/14 Enterprise Wing, Singapore 138602, Singapore
| | - Roger D Kamm
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 77 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; Singapore MIT Alliance for Research and Technology, BioSystems and Micromechanics, 1 CREATE way, #04-13/14 Enterprise Wing, Singapore 138602, Singapore; Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 77 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Corty MM, Freeman MR. Cell biology in neuroscience: Architects in neural circuit design: glia control neuron numbers and connectivity. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014; 203:395-405. [PMID: 24217617 PMCID: PMC3824021 DOI: 10.1083/jcb.201306099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Glia serve many important functions in the mature nervous system. In addition, these diverse cells have emerged as essential participants in nearly all aspects of neural development. Improved techniques to study neurons in the absence of glia, and to visualize and manipulate glia in vivo, have greatly expanded our knowledge of glial biology and neuron-glia interactions during development. Exciting studies in the last decade have begun to identify the cellular and molecular mechanisms by which glia exert control over neuronal circuit formation. Recent findings illustrate the importance of glial cells in shaping the nervous system by controlling the number and connectivity of neurons.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Megan M Corty
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Worcester, MA 01605
| | | |
Collapse
|
15
|
Hong WS, Young EWK, Tepp WH, Johnson EA, Beebe DJ. A Microscale Neuron and Schwann Cell Coculture Model for Increasing Detection Sensitivity of Botulinum Neurotoxin Type A. Toxicol Sci 2013; 134:64-72. [DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kft082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
|
16
|
Grumbles RM, Almeida VW, Casella GTB, Wood PM, Hemstapat K, Thomas CK. Motoneuron replacement for reinnervation of skeletal muscle in adult rats. J Neuropathol Exp Neurol 2012; 71:921-30. [PMID: 22964786 PMCID: PMC3760019 DOI: 10.1097/nen.0b013e31826cf69a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Reinnervation is needed to rescue muscle when motoneurons die in disease or injury. Embryonic ventral spinal cord cells transplanted into peripheral nerve reinnervate muscle and reduce atrophy, but low motoneuron survival may limit motor unit formation. We tested whether transplantation of a purified population of embryonic motoneurons into peripheral nerve (mean ± SE, 146,458 ± 4,011 motoneurons) resulted in more motor units and reinnervation than transplantation of a mixed population of ventral spinal cord cells (72,075 ± 12,329 motoneurons). Ten weeks after either kind of transplant, similar numbers of neurons expressed choline acetyl transferase and/or Islet-1. Motoneuron numbers always exceeded the reinnervated motor unit count. Most motor end plate were simple plaques. Reinnervation significantly reduced muscle fiber atrophy. These data show that the number of transplanted motoneurons and motoneuron survival do not limit muscle reinnervation. Incomplete differentiation of motoneurons in nerve and lack of muscle activity may result in immature neuromuscular junctions that limit reinnervation and function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Robert M Grumbles
- The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida 33136-2104, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
17
|
Caillol G, Vacher H, Musarella M, Bellouze S, Dargent B, Autillo-Touati A. Motor endplate disease affects neuromuscular junction maturation. Eur J Neurosci 2012; 36:2400-8. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1460-9568.2012.08164.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
|
18
|
Abstract
The human brain contains more than 100 trillion (10(14)) synaptic connections, which form all of its neural circuits. Neuroscientists have long been interested in how this complex synaptic web is weaved during development and remodelled during learning and disease. Recent studies have uncovered that glial cells are important regulators of synaptic connectivity. These cells are far more active than was previously thought and are powerful controllers of synapse formation, function, plasticity and elimination, both in health and disease. Understanding how signalling between glia and neurons regulates synaptic development will offer new insight into how the nervous system works and provide new targets for the treatment of neurological diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cagla Eroglu
- Cell Biology Department, Box 3709, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina 27710, USA.
| | | |
Collapse
|
19
|
Wu H, Xiong WC, Mei L. To build a synapse: signaling pathways in neuromuscular junction assembly. Development 2010; 137:1017-33. [PMID: 20215342 DOI: 10.1242/dev.038711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 379] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Synapses, as fundamental units of the neural circuitry, enable complex behaviors. The neuromuscular junction (NMJ) is a synapse type that forms between motoneurons and skeletal muscle fibers and that exhibits a high degree of subcellular specialization. Aided by genetic techniques and suitable animal models, studies in the past decade have brought significant progress in identifying NMJ components and assembly mechanisms. This review highlights recent advances in the study of NMJ development, focusing on signaling pathways that are activated by diffusible cues, which shed light on synaptogenesis in the brain and contribute to a better understanding of muscular dystrophy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Haitao Wu
- Program of Developmental Neurobiology, Institute of Molecular Medicine and Genetics, Department of Neurology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
Glial remodeling during metamorphosis influences the stabilization of motor neuron branches in Drosophila. Dev Biol 2010; 340:344-54. [PMID: 20079727 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2010.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2008] [Revised: 01/04/2010] [Accepted: 01/07/2010] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Motor neurons that innervate the dorsal longitudinal (flight) muscles, DLMs, make multiple points of contact along the length of fibers. The stereotypy of the innervation lies in the number of contact points (CPs) made by each motor neuron and is established as a consequence of pruning that occurs during metamorphosis. Coincident with the onset of pruning is the arrival of glial processes that eventually ensheath persistent branches. To test a possible role for glia during pruning, the development of adult-specific glial ensheathment was disrupted using a targeted expression of dominant negative shibire. Such a manipulation resulted in fewer contact points at the DLM fibers. The development of innervation was examined during metamorphosis, specifically to test if the reduction was a consequence of increased pruning. We quantified the number of branches displaying discontinuities in their membrane, an indicator of the level of pruning. Disrupting the formation of glial ensheathment resulted in a two-fold increase in the discontinuities, indicating that pruning is enhanced. Thus glial-neuronal interactions, specifically during pruning are important for the patterning of adult innervation. Our studies also suggest that FasII plays a role in mediating this communication. At the end of the pruning phase, FasII localizes to glia, which envelops each of the stabilized contact points. When glial FasII levels are increased using the Gal4/UAS system of targeted expression, pruning of secondary branches is enhanced. Our results indicate that glia regulate pruning of secondary branches by influencing the balance between stabilization and pruning. This was confirmed by an observed rescue of the innervation phenotype of FasII hypomorphs by over expressing FasII in glia.
Collapse
|
21
|
Role of glial cells in the formation and maintenance of synapses. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2009; 63:39-46. [PMID: 19931561 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresrev.2009.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2009] [Revised: 11/06/2009] [Accepted: 11/11/2009] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Synaptogenesis is a decisive process for the development of the brain, its plasticity during adulthood and its regeneration after injury and disease. Despite tremendous progress during the last decades, it remains unclear, whether neurons can form synapses autonomously. In this review, I will summarize recent evidence that this is probably not the case and that distinct phases of synapse development depend on help from glial cells. The results supporting this view come from studies on the central and peripheral nervous system and on different experimental models including cultured cells as well as living flies, worms and mice. Our understanding of synapse-glia interactions in the developing, adult and diseased brain is likely to advance more rapidly as new experimental approaches to identify, visualize and manipulate glial cells in vivo become available.
Collapse
|
22
|
Bolton MM, Eroglu C. Look who is weaving the neural web: glial control of synapse formation. Curr Opin Neurobiol 2009; 19:491-7. [PMID: 19879129 DOI: 10.1016/j.conb.2009.09.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2009] [Accepted: 09/18/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Historically, our understanding of synapse formation has been shaped by studies focusing on neurons. However, with advancements in live imaging techniques and molecular and genetic tools we are rapidly uncovering new roles for glia in synapse formation and function. Contact-mediated signals from glia instruct dendrites to become receptive to synaptic partners. Glia-secreted factors coordinate the assembly and apposition of pre-synaptic and post-synaptic specializations. Glial cells also provide cues that are required for synaptic maturation and remodeling of spines both during development and in the adult. As we continue to learn about glial contributions to synapse formation and maintenance, it is likely that glia-derived signals will emerge as potential therapeutic targets for diseases that involve aberrant circuit function such as autism, epilepsy and Alzheimer's Disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M McLean Bolton
- Department of Cell Biology, Duke University Medical Center, 333A Nanaline Duke Bldg., Box 3709, Durham, NC 27710, United States
| | | |
Collapse
|
23
|
Pfrieger FW. Roles of glial cells in synapse development. Cell Mol Life Sci 2009; 66:2037-47. [PMID: 19308323 PMCID: PMC2705714 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-009-0005-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2008] [Revised: 01/20/2009] [Accepted: 02/10/2009] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Brain function relies on communication among neurons via highly specialized contacts, the synapses, and synaptic dysfunction lies at the heart of age-, disease-, and injury-induced defects of the nervous system. For these reasons, the formation-and repair-of synaptic connections is a major focus of neuroscience research. In this review, I summarize recent evidence that synapse development is not a cell-autonomous process and that its distinct phases depend on assistance from the so-called glial cells. The results supporting this view concern synapses in the central nervous system as well as neuromuscular junctions and originate from experimental models ranging from cell cultures to living flies, worms, and mice. Peeking at the future, I will highlight recent technical advances that are likely to revolutionize our views on synapse-glia interactions in the developing, adult and diseased brain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Frank W Pfrieger
- Institute of Cellular and Integrative Neurosciences, CNRS UPR-3212, University of Strasbourg, 5, rue Louis Pasteur, 67084, Strasbourg, France.
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Li H, Han YR, Bi C, Davila J, Goff LA, Thompson K, Swerdel M, Camarillo C, Ricupero CL, Hart RP, Plummer MR, Grumet M. Functional differentiation of a clone resembling embryonic cortical interneuron progenitors. Dev Neurobiol 2009; 68:1549-64. [PMID: 18814314 DOI: 10.1002/dneu.20679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
We have generated clones (L2.3 and RG3.6) of neural progenitors with radial glial properties from rat E14.5 cortex that differentiate into astrocytes, neurons, and oligodendrocytes. Here, we describe a different clone (L2.2) that gives rise exclusively to neurons, but not to glia. Neuronal differentiation of L2.2 cells was inhibited by bone morphogenic protein 2 (BMP2) and enhanced by Sonic Hedgehog (SHH) similar to cortical interneuron progenitors. Compared with L2.3, differentiating L2.2 cells expressed significantly higher levels of mRNAs for glutamate decarboxylases (GADs), DLX transcription factors, calretinin, calbindin, neuropeptide Y (NPY), and somatostatin. Increased levels of DLX-2, GADs, and calretinin proteins were confirmed upon differentiation. L2.2 cells differentiated into neurons that fired action potentials in vitro, and their electrophysiological differentiation was accelerated and more complete when cocultured with developing astroglial cells but not with conditioned medium from these cells. The combined results suggest that clone L2.2 resembles GABAergic interneuron progenitors in the developing forebrain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hedong Li
- W. M. Keck Center for Collaborative Neuroscience, Rutgers, State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, New Jersey 08854-8082, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
25
|
Schwann cells promote synaptogenesis at the neuromuscular junction via transforming growth factor-beta1. J Neurosci 2008; 28:9599-609. [PMID: 18815246 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.2589-08.2008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 114] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent studies suggest that glial cells actively participate in the formation, function, maintenance, and repair of the chemical synapse. However, the molecular mechanisms of glia-synapse interactions are largely unknown. We have shown previously that Schwann cell-conditioned medium (SC-CM) promotes synaptogenesis in Xenopus nerve-muscle cocultures. The present study aimed to identify the synaptogenic molecules in SC-CM. Combining biochemical approaches and in vitro bioassays, we found that SC-CM contains transforming growth factor (TGF)-beta1, which is expressed in Schwann cells both in vivo and in vitro. Similar to SC-CM, TGF-beta1 doubled the size of acetylcholine receptor (AChR) clusters at nerve-muscle contacts and significantly increased the percentage of nerve-muscle contacts that show AChR clusters to approximately 60%, compared with approximately 20% seen in control cultures. The synaptogenic effects of SC-CM were abolished if SC-CM was immunodepleted of TGF-beta1 or if the latency-associated protein or a TGF-beta1 receptor kinase inhibitor was added to block the bioactivity of TGF-beta1. Similar to frog SC-CM, mammalian SC-CM also showed synaptogenic effects, which were prevented by immunodepletion of TGF-beta1. TGF-beta1 upregulated agrin expression in spinal neurons, which could explain the increase in AChR clusters in cultures treated with SC-CM. These results suggest that Schwann cells express TGF-beta1, which is both sufficient and necessary for mediating the synapse-promoting effects of Schwann cells at the developing neuromuscular junction. Schwann cell-derived TGF-beta1 thus joins other astrocyte-derived synaptogenic factors in further strengthening the emerging concept that glial cells contribute to synaptogenesis in both the PNS and the CNS.
Collapse
|
26
|
Feng Z, Ko CP. The Role of Glial Cells in the Formation and Maintenance of the Neuromuscular Junction. Ann N Y Acad Sci 2008; 1132:19-28. [DOI: 10.1196/annals.1405.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
|
27
|
Glial-toxin-mediated disruption of spinal cord locomotor network function and its modulation by 5-HT. Neuroscience 2008; 153:1332-43. [PMID: 18440149 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2008.03.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2007] [Revised: 03/18/2008] [Accepted: 03/19/2008] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
While it is established that glial cells actively influence neuronal and synaptic properties, the functional effects of glial-neuronal interactions are still not well understood. To address the role of glia at the network level we have examined the effects of the specific gliotoxin L-aminoadipic acid on the locomotor network output and cellular and synaptic properties in the lamprey spinal cord. The gliotoxic effect of aminoadipic acid was associated with a specific depolarization of glial cells. Aminoadipic acid depolarized the membrane potential of spinal cord neurons, suggesting a functional link between glia and neurons. The depolarization was significantly reduced by glutamate receptor antagonists in adults, but by gap junction blockers in larvae, suggesting a developmental difference in glial-neuronal interactions. Aminoadipic acid also reduced the amplitude of monosynaptic excitatory postsynaptic potentials (EPSPs), an effect that was not associated with changes in the presynaptic release probability or postsynaptic response to glutamate. These cellular and synaptic effects of aminoadipic acid were associated with disruption of the locomotor network output. This could not be accounted for by changes in glutamate uptake or potassium buffering by glia, suggesting a direct role for glia in the network. Interestingly, we found that the aminoadipic acid-evoked disruption of network activity and reduction of monosynaptic EPSP amplitudes did not occur in the presence of the endogenous spinal modulator 5-HT. These results thus provide evidence for an active functional role for glial cells in spinal cord locomotor networks, and suggest a potential glial modulatory effect of 5-HT.
Collapse
|
28
|
Tang HB, Li YS, Nakata Y. The Release of Substance P From Cultured Dorsal Root Ganglion Neurons Requires the Non-neuronal Cells Around These Neurons. J Pharmacol Sci 2007; 105:264-71. [DOI: 10.1254/jphs.fp0071359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022] Open
|