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Yang Y, Liu T, Li J, Yan D, Hu Y, Wu P, Fang F, McQuillan PM, Hang W, Leng J, Hu Z. General anesthetic agents induce neurotoxicity through astrocytes. Neural Regen Res 2024; 19:1299-1307. [PMID: 37905879 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.385857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2023] [Accepted: 09/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/02/2023] Open
Abstract
ABSTRACT Neuroscientists have recognized the importance of astrocytes in regulating neurological function and their influence on the release of glial transmitters. Few studies, however, have focused on the effects of general anesthetic agents on neuroglia or astrocytes. Astrocytes can also be an important target of general anesthetic agents as they exert not only sedative, analgesic, and amnesic effects but also mediate general anesthetic-induced neurotoxicity and postoperative cognitive dysfunction. Here, we analyzed recent advances in understanding the mechanism of general anesthetic agents on astrocytes, and found that exposure to general anesthetic agents will destroy the morphology and proliferation of astrocytes, in addition to acting on the receptors on their surface, which not only affect Ca2+ signaling, inhibit the release of brain-derived neurotrophic factor and lactate from astrocytes, but are even involved in the regulation of the pro- and anti-inflammatory processes of astrocytes. These would obviously affect the communication between astrocytes as well as between astrocytes and neighboring neurons, other neuroglia, and vascular cells. In this review, we summarize how general anesthetic agents act on neurons via astrocytes, and explore potential mechanisms of action of general anesthetic agents on the nervous system. We hope that this review will provide a new direction for mitigating the neurotoxicity of general anesthetic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanchang Yang
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Tiantian Liu
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
- Department of Anesthesiology, Ningbo Women and Children's Hospital, Ningbo, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Jun Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
- Department of Anesthesiology, Shulan (Hangzhou) Hospital Affiliated to Zhejiang Shuren University Shulan International Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Dandan Yan
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Yuhan Hu
- Cell Biology Department, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Pin Wu
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Fuquan Fang
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Patrick M McQuillan
- Department of Anesthesiology, Penn State Hershey Medical Centre, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, USA
| | - Wenxin Hang
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Jianhang Leng
- Department of Central Laboratory, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Zhiyong Hu
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China
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2
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Cahill MK, Collard M, Tse V, Reitman ME, Etchenique R, Kirst C, Poskanzer KE. Network-level encoding of local neurotransmitters in cortical astrocytes. Nature 2024; 629:146-153. [PMID: 38632406 PMCID: PMC11062919 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-024-07311-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024]
Abstract
Astrocytes, the most abundant non-neuronal cell type in the mammalian brain, are crucial circuit components that respond to and modulate neuronal activity through calcium (Ca2+) signalling1-7. Astrocyte Ca2+ activity is highly heterogeneous and occurs across multiple spatiotemporal scales-from fast, subcellular activity3,4 to slow, synchronized activity across connected astrocyte networks8-10-to influence many processes5,7,11. However, the inputs that drive astrocyte network dynamics remain unclear. Here we used ex vivo and in vivo two-photon astrocyte imaging while mimicking neuronal neurotransmitter inputs at multiple spatiotemporal scales. We find that brief, subcellular inputs of GABA and glutamate lead to widespread, long-lasting astrocyte Ca2+ responses beyond an individual stimulated cell. Further, we find that a key subset of Ca2+ activity-propagative activity-differentiates astrocyte network responses to these two main neurotransmitters, and may influence responses to future inputs. Together, our results demonstrate that local, transient neurotransmitter inputs are encoded by broad cortical astrocyte networks over a minutes-long time course, contributing to accumulating evidence that substantial astrocyte-neuron communication occurs across slow, network-level spatiotemporal scales12-14. These findings will enable future studies to investigate the link between specific astrocyte Ca2+ activity and specific functional outputs, which could build a consistent framework for astrocytic modulation of neuronal activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle K Cahill
- Department of Biochemistry & Biophysics, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Max Collard
- Department of Biochemistry & Biophysics, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Vincent Tse
- Department of Biochemistry & Biophysics, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Michael E Reitman
- Department of Biochemistry & Biophysics, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Roberto Etchenique
- Departamento de Química Inorgánica, Analítica y Química Física, INQUIMAE, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires, CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Christoph Kirst
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Anatomy, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Kavli Institute for Fundamental Neuroscience, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Kira E Poskanzer
- Department of Biochemistry & Biophysics, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA.
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA.
- Kavli Institute for Fundamental Neuroscience, San Francisco, CA, USA.
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3
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Roy K, Zhou X, Otani R, Yuan PC, Ioka S, Vogt KE, Kondo T, Farag NHT, Ijiri H, Wu Z, Chitose Y, Amezawa M, Uygun DS, Cherasse Y, Nagase H, Li Y, Yanagisawa M, Abe M, Basheer R, Wang YQ, Saitoh T, Lazarus M. Optochemical control of slow-wave sleep in the nucleus accumbens of male mice by a photoactivatable allosteric modulator of adenosine A 2A receptors. Nat Commun 2024; 15:3661. [PMID: 38688901 PMCID: PMC11061178 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-47964-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Optochemistry, an emerging pharmacologic approach in which light is used to selectively activate or deactivate molecules, has the potential to alleviate symptoms, cure diseases, and improve quality of life while preventing uncontrolled drug effects. The development of in-vivo applications for optochemistry to render brain cells photoresponsive without relying on genetic engineering has been progressing slowly. The nucleus accumbens (NAc) is a region for the regulation of slow-wave sleep (SWS) through the integration of motivational stimuli. Adenosine emerges as a promising candidate molecule for activating indirect pathway neurons of the NAc expressing adenosine A2A receptors (A2ARs) to induce SWS. Here, we developed a brain-permeable positive allosteric modulator of A2ARs (A2AR PAM) that can be rapidly photoactivated with visible light (λ > 400 nm) and used it optoallosterically to induce SWS in the NAc of freely behaving male mice by increasing the activity of extracellular adenosine derived from astrocytic and neuronal activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Koustav Roy
- International Institute for Integrative Sleep Medicine (WPI-IIIS), University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Xuzhao Zhou
- International Institute for Integrative Sleep Medicine (WPI-IIIS), University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
- Oujiang Laboratory (Zhejiang Laboratory for Regenerative Medicine, Vision and Brain Health), School of Ophthalmology & Optometry and Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Rintaro Otani
- International Institute for Integrative Sleep Medicine (WPI-IIIS), University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Ping-Chuan Yuan
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Institutes of Brain Science and Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Joint International Research Laboratory of Sleep, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- School of Pharmacy, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, China
| | - Shuji Ioka
- International Institute for Integrative Sleep Medicine (WPI-IIIS), University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Kaspar E Vogt
- International Institute for Integrative Sleep Medicine (WPI-IIIS), University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Tamae Kondo
- International Institute for Integrative Sleep Medicine (WPI-IIIS), University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Nouran H T Farag
- International Institute for Integrative Sleep Medicine (WPI-IIIS), University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Haruto Ijiri
- International Institute for Integrative Sleep Medicine (WPI-IIIS), University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
- PhD Program in Humanics, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Zhaofa Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Youhei Chitose
- Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Advanced Science and Engineering, Hiroshima University Research Center for Photo-Drug-Delivery Systems (HiU-P-DDS), Hiroshima University, Higashi-Hiroshima, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Mao Amezawa
- International Institute for Integrative Sleep Medicine (WPI-IIIS), University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - David S Uygun
- Department of Psychiatry, Veterans Administration Boston Healthcare System and Harvard Medical School, West Roxbury, MA, USA
| | - Yoan Cherasse
- International Institute for Integrative Sleep Medicine (WPI-IIIS), University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Nagase
- International Institute for Integrative Sleep Medicine (WPI-IIIS), University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Yulong Li
- New Cornerstone Science Laboratory, State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, School of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Masashi Yanagisawa
- International Institute for Integrative Sleep Medicine (WPI-IIIS), University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Manabu Abe
- Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Advanced Science and Engineering, Hiroshima University Research Center for Photo-Drug-Delivery Systems (HiU-P-DDS), Hiroshima University, Higashi-Hiroshima, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Radhika Basheer
- Department of Psychiatry, Veterans Administration Boston Healthcare System and Harvard Medical School, West Roxbury, MA, USA
| | - Yi-Qun Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Institutes of Brain Science and Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Joint International Research Laboratory of Sleep, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Tsuyoshi Saitoh
- International Institute for Integrative Sleep Medicine (WPI-IIIS), University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan.
- Institute of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan.
| | - Michael Lazarus
- International Institute for Integrative Sleep Medicine (WPI-IIIS), University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan.
- Institute of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan.
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4
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Du C, Park K, Hua Y, Liu Y, Volkow ND, Pan Y. Astrocytes modulate cerebral blood flow and neuronal response to cocaine in prefrontal cortex. Mol Psychiatry 2024:10.1038/s41380-023-02373-9. [PMID: 38238549 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-023-02373-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Revised: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 01/30/2024]
Abstract
Cocaine affects both cerebral blood vessels and neuronal activity in brain. Cocaine can also disrupt astrocytes, which modulate neurovascular coupling-a process that regulates cerebral hemodynamics in response to neuronal activation. However, separating neuronal and astrocytic effects from cocaine's direct vasoactive effects has been challenging, partially due to limitations of neuroimaging techniques able to differentiate vascular from neuronal and glial effects at high temporal and spatial resolutions. Here, we used a newly-developed multi-channel fluorescence and optical coherence Doppler microscope (fl-ODM) that allows for simultaneous measurements of neuronal and astrocytic activities (reflected by the intracellular calcium changes in neurons Ca2+N and astrocytes Ca2+A, respectively) alongside their vascular interactions in vivo to address this challenge. Using green and red genetically-encoded Ca2+ indicators differentially expressed in astrocytes and neurons, fl-ODM enabled concomitant imaging of large-scale astrocytic and neuronal Ca2+ fluorescence and 3D cerebral blood flow velocity (CBFv) in vascular networks in the mouse cortex. We assessed cocaine's effects in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) and found that the CBFv changes triggered by cocaine were temporally correlated with astrocytic Ca2+A activity. Chemogenetic inhibition of astrocytes during the baseline state resulted in blood vessel dilation and CBFv increases but did not affect neuronal activity, suggesting modulation of spontaneous blood vessel's vascular tone by astrocytes. Chemogenetic inhibition of astrocytes during a cocaine challenge prevented its vasoconstricting effects alongside the CBFv decreases, but it also attenuated the neuronal Ca2+N increases triggered by cocaine. These results document a role of astrocytes both in regulating vascular tone and consequently blood flow, at baseline and for modulating the vasoconstricting and neuronal activation responses to cocaine in the PFC. Strategies to inhibit astrocytic activity could offer promise for ameliorating vascular and neuronal toxicity from cocaine misuse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Congwu Du
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, 11794, USA
| | - Kichon Park
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, 11794, USA
| | - Yueming Hua
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, 11794, USA
| | - Yanzuo Liu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, 11794, USA
| | - Nora D Volkow
- National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20857, USA
| | - Yingtian Pan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, 11794, USA.
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5
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Adermark L, Stomberg R, Söderpalm B, Ericson M. Astrocytic Regulation of Endocannabinoid-Dependent Synaptic Plasticity in the Dorsolateral Striatum. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:581. [PMID: 38203752 PMCID: PMC10779090 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25010581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Revised: 12/26/2023] [Accepted: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Astrocytes are pivotal for synaptic transmission and may also play a role in the induction and expression of synaptic plasticity, including endocannabinoid-mediated long-term depression (eCB-LTD). In the dorsolateral striatum (DLS), eCB signaling plays a major role in balancing excitation and inhibition and promoting habitual learning. The aim of this study was to outline the role of astrocytes in regulating eCB signaling in the DLS. To this end, we employed electrophysiological slice recordings combined with metabolic, chemogenetic and pharmacological approaches in an attempt to selectively suppress astrocyte function. High-frequency stimulation induced eCB-mediated LTD (HFS-LTD) in brain slices from both male and female rats. The metabolic uncoupler fluorocitrate (FC) reduced the probability of transmitter release and depressed synaptic output in a manner that was independent on cannabinoid 1 receptor (CB1R) activation. Fluorocitrate did not affect the LTD induced by the CB1R agonist WIN55,212-2, but enhanced CB1R-dependent HFS-LTD. Reduced neurotransmission and facilitated HFS-LTD were also observed during chemogenetic manipulation using Gi-coupled DREADDs targeting glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP)-expressing cells, during the pharmacological inhibition of connexins using carbenoxolone disodium, or during astrocytic glutamate uptake using TFB-TBOA. While pretreatment with the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonist 2-amino-5-phosphonopentanoic acid (APV) failed to prevent synaptic depression induced by FC, it blocked the facilitation of HFS-LTD. While the lack of tools to disentangle astrocytes from neurons is a major limitation of this study, our data collectively support a role for astrocytes in modulating basal neurotransmission and eCB-mediated synaptic plasticity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louise Adermark
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, 40530 Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Rosita Stomberg
- Department of Psychiatry and Neurochemistry, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, 40530 Gothenburg, Sweden; (R.S.); (B.S.); (M.E.)
| | - Bo Söderpalm
- Department of Psychiatry and Neurochemistry, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, 40530 Gothenburg, Sweden; (R.S.); (B.S.); (M.E.)
- Beroendekliniken, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, 41345 Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Mia Ericson
- Department of Psychiatry and Neurochemistry, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, 40530 Gothenburg, Sweden; (R.S.); (B.S.); (M.E.)
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6
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Ferrucci L, Cantando I, Cordella F, Di Angelantonio S, Ragozzino D, Bezzi P. Microglia at the Tripartite Synapse during Postnatal Development: Implications for Autism Spectrum Disorders and Schizophrenia. Cells 2023; 12:2827. [PMID: 38132147 PMCID: PMC10742295 DOI: 10.3390/cells12242827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2023] [Revised: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Synapses are the fundamental structures of neural circuits that control brain functions and behavioral and cognitive processes. Synapses undergo formation, maturation, and elimination mainly during postnatal development via a complex interplay with neighboring astrocytes and microglia that, by shaping neural connectivity, may have a crucial role in the strengthening and weakening of synaptic functions, that is, the functional plasticity of synapses. Indeed, an increasing number of studies have unveiled the roles of microglia and astrocytes in synapse formation, maturation, and elimination as well as in regulating synaptic function. Over the past 15 years, the mechanisms underlying the microglia- and astrocytes-dependent regulation of synaptic plasticity have been thoroughly studied, and researchers have reported that the disruption of these glial cells in early postnatal development may underlie the cause of synaptic dysfunction that leads to neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Ferrucci
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Rome Sapienza, 00185 Rome, Italy; (L.F.); (F.C.); (S.D.A.); (D.R.)
| | - Iva Cantando
- Department of Fundamental Neurosciences, University of Lausanne, 1005 Lausanne, Switzerland;
| | - Federica Cordella
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Rome Sapienza, 00185 Rome, Italy; (L.F.); (F.C.); (S.D.A.); (D.R.)
- Center for Life Nano- & Neuro-Science, IIT, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Silvia Di Angelantonio
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Rome Sapienza, 00185 Rome, Italy; (L.F.); (F.C.); (S.D.A.); (D.R.)
- Center for Life Nano- & Neuro-Science, IIT, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Davide Ragozzino
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Rome Sapienza, 00185 Rome, Italy; (L.F.); (F.C.); (S.D.A.); (D.R.)
- IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, 00179 Rome, Italy
| | - Paola Bezzi
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Rome Sapienza, 00185 Rome, Italy; (L.F.); (F.C.); (S.D.A.); (D.R.)
- Department of Fundamental Neurosciences, University of Lausanne, 1005 Lausanne, Switzerland;
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7
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Cahill MK, Collard M, Tse V, Reitman ME, Etchenique R, Kirst C, Poskanzer KE. Network-level encoding of local neurotransmitters in cortical astrocytes. bioRxiv 2023:2023.12.01.568932. [PMID: 38106119 PMCID: PMC10723263 DOI: 10.1101/2023.12.01.568932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
Astrocytes-the most abundant non-neuronal cell type in the mammalian brain-are crucial circuit components that respond to and modulate neuronal activity via calcium (Ca 2+ ) signaling 1-8 . Astrocyte Ca 2+ activity is highly heterogeneous and occurs across multiple spatiotemporal scales: from fast, subcellular activity 3,4 to slow, synchronized activity that travels across connected astrocyte networks 9-11 . Furthermore, astrocyte network activity has been shown to influence a wide range of processes 5,8,12 . While astrocyte network activity has important implications for neuronal circuit function, the inputs that drive astrocyte network dynamics remain unclear. Here we used ex vivo and in vivo two-photon Ca 2+ imaging of astrocytes while mimicking neuronal neurotransmitter inputs at multiple spatiotemporal scales. We find that brief, subcellular inputs of GABA and glutamate lead to widespread, long-lasting astrocyte Ca 2+ responses beyond an individual stimulated cell. Further, we find that a key subset of Ca 2+ activity-propagative events-differentiates astrocyte network responses to these two major neurotransmitters, and gates responses to future inputs. Together, our results demonstrate that local, transient neurotransmitter inputs are encoded by broad cortical astrocyte networks over the course of minutes, contributing to accumulating evidence across multiple model organisms that significant astrocyte-neuron communication occurs across slow, network-level spatiotemporal scales 13-15 . We anticipate that this study will be a starting point for future studies investigating the link between specific astrocyte Ca 2+ activity and specific astrocyte functional outputs, which could build a consistent framework for astrocytic modulation of neuronal activity.
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8
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Hjukse JB, Puebla MFDL, Vindedal GF, Sprengel R, Jensen V, Nagelhus EA, Tang W. Increased membrane Ca 2+ permeability drives astrocytic Ca 2+ dynamics during neuronal stimulation at excitatory synapses. Glia 2023; 71:2770-2781. [PMID: 37564028 DOI: 10.1002/glia.24450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Revised: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023]
Abstract
Astrocytes are intricately involved in the activity of neural circuits; however, their basic physiology of interacting with nearby neurons is not well established. Using two-photon imaging of neurons and astrocytes during higher frequency stimulation of hippocampal CA3-CA1 Schaffer collateral (Scc) excitatory synapses, we could show that increasing levels of released glutamate accelerated local astrocytic Ca2+ elevation. However, blockage of glutamate transporters did not abolish this astrocytic Ca2+ response, suggesting that astrocytic Ca2+ elevation is indirectly associated with an uptake of extracellular glutamate. However, during the astrocytic glutamate uptake, the Na+ /Ca2+ exchanger (NCX) reverse mode was activated, and mediated extracellular Ca2+ entry, thereby triggering the internal release of Ca2+ . In addition, extracellular Ca2+ entry via membrane P2X receptors further facilitated astrocytic Ca2+ elevation via ATP binding. These findings suggest a novel mechanism of activity induced Ca2+ permeability increases of astrocytic membranes, which drives astrocytic responses during neuronal stimulation of CA3-CA1 Scc excitatory synapses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jarand B Hjukse
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Mario F D L Puebla
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Trondheim, Norway
- Department of Neurology, Neuroclinic, St. Olavs Hospital, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Gry Fluge Vindedal
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Rolf Sprengel
- Department of Neurology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Vidar Jensen
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Erlend A Nagelhus
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Research Group of Molecular Neurobiology, Max Planck Institute for Medical Research, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Wannan Tang
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Trondheim, Norway
- Department of Neurology, Neuroclinic, St. Olavs Hospital, Trondheim, Norway
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9
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Lia A, Di Spiezio A, Vitalini L, Tore M, Puja G, Losi G. Ion Channels and Ionotropic Receptors in Astrocytes: Physiological Functions and Alterations in Alzheimer's Disease and Glioblastoma. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:2038. [PMID: 37895420 PMCID: PMC10608464 DOI: 10.3390/life13102038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2023] [Revised: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 10/07/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The human brain is composed of nearly one hundred billion neurons and an equal number of glial cells, including macroglia, i.e., astrocytes and oligodendrocytes, and microglia, the resident immune cells of the brain. In the last few decades, compelling evidence has revealed that glial cells are far more active and complex than previously thought. In particular, astrocytes, the most abundant glial cell population, not only take part in brain development, metabolism, and defense against pathogens and insults, but they also affect sensory, motor, and cognitive functions by constantly modulating synaptic activity. Not surprisingly, astrocytes are actively involved in neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) and other neurological disorders like brain tumors, in which they rapidly become reactive and mediate neuroinflammation. Reactive astrocytes acquire or lose specific functions that differently modulate disease progression and symptoms, including cognitive impairments. Astrocytes express several types of ion channels, including K+, Na+, and Ca2+ channels, transient receptor potential channels (TRP), aquaporins, mechanoreceptors, and anion channels, whose properties and functions are only partially understood, particularly in small processes that contact synapses. In addition, astrocytes express ionotropic receptors for several neurotransmitters. Here, we provide an extensive and up-to-date review of the roles of ion channels and ionotropic receptors in astrocyte physiology and pathology. As examples of two different brain pathologies, we focus on Alzheimer's disease (AD), one of the most diffuse neurodegenerative disorders, and glioblastoma (GBM), the most common brain tumor. Understanding how ion channels and ionotropic receptors in astrocytes participate in NDs and tumors is necessary for developing new therapeutic tools for these increasingly common neurological conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annamaria Lia
- Department Biomedical Science, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy; (A.L.); (A.D.S.)
| | - Alessandro Di Spiezio
- Department Biomedical Science, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy; (A.L.); (A.D.S.)
- Neuroscience Institute (CNR-IN), Padova Section, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Vitalini
- Department Life Science, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy; (L.V.); (G.P.)
| | - Manuela Tore
- Institute of Nanoscience (CNR-NANO), Modena Section, 41125 Modena, Italy;
- Department Biomedical Science, Metabolic and Neuroscience, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Giulia Puja
- Department Life Science, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy; (L.V.); (G.P.)
| | - Gabriele Losi
- Institute of Nanoscience (CNR-NANO), Modena Section, 41125 Modena, Italy;
- Department Biomedical Science, Metabolic and Neuroscience, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
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10
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Li Y, Que M, Wang X, Zhan G, Zhou Z, Luo X, Li S. Exploring Astrocyte-Mediated Mechanisms in Sleep Disorders and Comorbidity. Biomedicines 2023; 11:2476. [PMID: 37760916 PMCID: PMC10525869 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11092476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2023] [Revised: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Astrocytes, the most abundant cells in the brain, are integral to sleep regulation. In the context of a healthy neural environment, these glial cells exert a profound influence on the sleep-wake cycle, modulating both rapid eye movement (REM) and non-REM sleep phases. However, emerging literature underscores perturbations in astrocytic function as potential etiological factors in sleep disorders, either as protopathy or comorbidity. As known, sleep disorders significantly increase the risk of neurodegenerative, cardiovascular, metabolic, or psychiatric diseases. Meanwhile, sleep disorders are commonly screened as comorbidities in various neurodegenerative diseases, epilepsy, and others. Building on existing research that examines the role of astrocytes in sleep disorders, this review aims to elucidate the potential mechanisms by which astrocytes influence sleep regulation and contribute to sleep disorders in the varied settings of brain diseases. The review emphasizes the significance of astrocyte-mediated mechanisms in sleep disorders and their associated comorbidities, highlighting the need for further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yujuan Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, Hubei Key Laboratory of Geriatric Anesthesia and Perioperative Brain Health, Wuhan Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Anesthesia, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China; (Y.L.); (M.Q.); (X.W.); (G.Z.); (Z.Z.)
| | - Mengxin Que
- Department of Anesthesiology, Hubei Key Laboratory of Geriatric Anesthesia and Perioperative Brain Health, Wuhan Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Anesthesia, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China; (Y.L.); (M.Q.); (X.W.); (G.Z.); (Z.Z.)
| | - Xuan Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Hubei Key Laboratory of Geriatric Anesthesia and Perioperative Brain Health, Wuhan Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Anesthesia, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China; (Y.L.); (M.Q.); (X.W.); (G.Z.); (Z.Z.)
| | - Gaofeng Zhan
- Department of Anesthesiology, Hubei Key Laboratory of Geriatric Anesthesia and Perioperative Brain Health, Wuhan Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Anesthesia, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China; (Y.L.); (M.Q.); (X.W.); (G.Z.); (Z.Z.)
| | - Zhiqiang Zhou
- Department of Anesthesiology, Hubei Key Laboratory of Geriatric Anesthesia and Perioperative Brain Health, Wuhan Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Anesthesia, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China; (Y.L.); (M.Q.); (X.W.); (G.Z.); (Z.Z.)
| | - Xiaoxiao Luo
- Department of Oncology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Shiyong Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, Hubei Key Laboratory of Geriatric Anesthesia and Perioperative Brain Health, Wuhan Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Anesthesia, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China; (Y.L.); (M.Q.); (X.W.); (G.Z.); (Z.Z.)
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11
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Miguel-Quesada C, Zaforas M, Herrera-Pérez S, Lines J, Fernández-López E, Alonso-Calviño E, Ardaya M, Soria FN, Araque A, Aguilar J, Rosa JM. Astrocytes adjust the dynamic range of cortical network activity to control modality-specific sensory information processing. Cell Rep 2023; 42:112950. [PMID: 37543946 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2023.112950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2022] [Revised: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/23/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Cortical neuron-astrocyte communication in response to peripheral sensory stimulation occurs in a topographic-, frequency-, and intensity-dependent manner. However, the contribution of this functional interaction to the processing of sensory inputs and consequent behavior remains unclear. We investigate the role of astrocytes in sensory information processing at circuit and behavioral levels by monitoring and manipulating astrocytic activity in vivo. We show that astrocytes control the dynamic range of the cortical network activity, optimizing its responsiveness to incoming sensory inputs. The astrocytic modulation of sensory processing contributes to setting the detection threshold for tactile and thermal behavior responses. The mechanism of such astrocytic control is mediated through modulation of inhibitory transmission to adjust the gain and sensitivity of responding networks. These results uncover a role for astrocytes in maintaining the cortical network activity in an optimal range to control behavior associated with specific sensory modalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Miguel-Quesada
- Neuronal Circuits and Behaviour Group, Hospital Nacional de Parapléjicos, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Castilla-La Mancha (IDISCAM), 45071 Toledo, Spain; Experimental Neurophysiology Group, Hospital Nacional de Parapléjicos, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Castilla-La Mancha (IDISCAM), 45071 Toledo, Spain
| | - Marta Zaforas
- Experimental Neurophysiology Group, Hospital Nacional de Parapléjicos, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Castilla-La Mancha (IDISCAM), 45071 Toledo, Spain
| | - Salvador Herrera-Pérez
- Experimental Neurophysiology Group, Hospital Nacional de Parapléjicos, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Castilla-La Mancha (IDISCAM), 45071 Toledo, Spain
| | - Justin Lines
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Elena Fernández-López
- Experimental Neurophysiology Group, Hospital Nacional de Parapléjicos, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Castilla-La Mancha (IDISCAM), 45071 Toledo, Spain
| | - Elena Alonso-Calviño
- Experimental Neurophysiology Group, Hospital Nacional de Parapléjicos, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Castilla-La Mancha (IDISCAM), 45071 Toledo, Spain
| | - Maria Ardaya
- Donostia International Physics Center (DIPC), 20018 San Sebastian, Spain; Achucarro Basque Center for Neuroscience, 48940 Leioa, Spain
| | - Federico N Soria
- Achucarro Basque Center for Neuroscience, 48940 Leioa, Spain; Ikerbasque, Basque Foundation for Science, 48009 Bilbao, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Madrid, Spain
| | - Alfonso Araque
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Juan Aguilar
- Experimental Neurophysiology Group, Hospital Nacional de Parapléjicos, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Castilla-La Mancha (IDISCAM), 45071 Toledo, Spain.
| | - Juliana M Rosa
- Neuronal Circuits and Behaviour Group, Hospital Nacional de Parapléjicos, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Castilla-La Mancha (IDISCAM), 45071 Toledo, Spain.
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12
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Abstract
Neuronal signalling is a key element in neuronal communication and is essential for the proper functioning of the CNS. Astrocytes, the most prominent glia in the brain play a key role in modulating neuronal signalling at the molecular, synaptic, cellular, and network levels. Over the past few decades, our knowledge about astrocytes and their functioning has evolved from considering them as merely a brain glue that provides structural support to neurons, to key communication elements. Astrocytes can regulate the activity of neurons by controlling the concentrations of ions and neurotransmitters in the extracellular milieu, as well as releasing chemicals and gliotransmitters that modulate neuronal activity. The aim of this review is to summarise the main processes through which astrocytes are modulating brain function. We will systematically distinguish between direct and indirect pathways in which astrocytes affect neuronal signalling at all levels. Lastly, we will summarize pathological conditions that arise once these signalling pathways are impaired focusing on neurodegeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Yossi Buskila
- School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Campbelltown, NSW, Australia
- The MARCS Institute, Western Sydney University, Campbelltown, NSW, Australia
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13
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Andrade-Talavera Y, Fisahn A, Rodríguez-Moreno A. Timing to be precise? An overview of spike timing-dependent plasticity, brain rhythmicity, and glial cells interplay within neuronal circuits. Mol Psychiatry 2023; 28:2177-2188. [PMID: 36991134 PMCID: PMC10611582 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-023-02027-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2022] [Revised: 02/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/31/2023]
Abstract
In the mammalian brain information processing and storage rely on the complex coding and decoding events performed by neuronal networks. These actions are based on the computational ability of neurons and their functional engagement in neuronal assemblies where precise timing of action potential firing is crucial. Neuronal circuits manage a myriad of spatially and temporally overlapping inputs to compute specific outputs that are proposed to underly memory traces formation, sensory perception, and cognitive behaviors. Spike-timing-dependent plasticity (STDP) and electrical brain rhythms are suggested to underlie such functions while the physiological evidence of assembly structures and mechanisms driving both processes continues to be scarce. Here, we review foundational and current evidence on timing precision and cooperative neuronal electrical activity driving STDP and brain rhythms, their interactions, and the emerging role of glial cells in such processes. We also provide an overview of their cognitive correlates and discuss current limitations and controversies, future perspectives on experimental approaches, and their application in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuniesky Andrade-Talavera
- Laboratory of Cellular Neuroscience and Plasticity, Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Cell Biology, Universidad Pablo de Olavide, ES-41013, Seville, Spain.
| | - André Fisahn
- Department of Biosciences and Nutrition and Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet, 171 77, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Antonio Rodríguez-Moreno
- Laboratory of Cellular Neuroscience and Plasticity, Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Cell Biology, Universidad Pablo de Olavide, ES-41013, Seville, Spain.
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14
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Ingiosi AM, Frank MG. Goodnight, astrocyte: waking up to astroglial mechanisms in sleep. FEBS J 2023; 290:2553-2564. [PMID: 35271767 PMCID: PMC9463397 DOI: 10.1111/febs.16424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2022] [Revised: 02/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Astrocytes mediate many important aspects of neural homeostasis, but until recently, their role in sleep was largely unknown. The situation has dramatically changed in the last decade. The use of transgenic animals, optogenetics, chemogenetics, brain imaging and sophisticated molecular assays has led to exciting discoveries. Astrocytes dynamically change their activity across the sleep-wake cycle and may encode sleep need via changes in intracellular signalling pathways. Astrocytes also exocytose/secrete sleep-inducing molecules which modulate brain activity, sleep architecture and sleep regulation. Many of these observations have been made in mice and Drosophila melanogaster, indicating that astroglial sleep mechanisms are evolutionarily conserved. We review recent findings and discuss future directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley M Ingiosi
- Department of Translational Medicine and Physiology, Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine, Washington State University, Spokane, WA, USA
| | - Marcos G Frank
- Department of Translational Medicine and Physiology, Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine, Washington State University, Spokane, WA, USA
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15
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Cheng YT, Luna-Figueroa E, Woo J, Chen HC, Lee ZF, Harmanci AS, Deneen B. Inhibitory input directs astrocyte morphogenesis through glial GABA BR. Nature 2023; 617:369-376. [PMID: 37100909 PMCID: PMC10733939 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-023-06010-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 04/28/2023]
Abstract
Communication between neurons and glia has an important role in establishing and maintaining higher-order brain function1. Astrocytes are endowed with complex morphologies, placing their peripheral processes in close proximity to neuronal synapses and directly contributing to their regulation of brain circuits2-4. Recent studies have shown that excitatory neuronal activity promotes oligodendrocyte differentiation5-7; whether inhibitory neurotransmission regulates astrocyte morphogenesis during development is unclear. Here we show that inhibitory neuron activity is necessary and sufficient for astrocyte morphogenesis. We found that input from inhibitory neurons functions through astrocytic GABAB receptor (GABABR) and that its deletion in astrocytes results in a loss of morphological complexity across a host of brain regions and disruption of circuit function. Expression of GABABR in developing astrocytes is regulated in a region-specific manner by SOX9 or NFIA and deletion of these transcription factors results in region-specific defects in astrocyte morphogenesis, which is conferred by interactions with transcription factors exhibiting region-restricted patterns of expression. Together, our studies identify input from inhibitory neurons and astrocytic GABABR as universal regulators of morphogenesis, while further revealing a combinatorial code of region-specific transcriptional dependencies for astrocyte development that is intertwined with activity-dependent processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Ting Cheng
- Center for Cancer Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
- Program in Developmental Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Estefania Luna-Figueroa
- Center for Cancer Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
- Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Junsung Woo
- Center for Cancer Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
- Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Hsiao-Chi Chen
- Center for Cancer Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
- Cancer Cell Biology Graduate Program, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Zhung-Fu Lee
- Center for Cancer Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
- Development, Disease, Models and Therapeutics Graduate Program, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Akdes Serin Harmanci
- Center for Cancer Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
- Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Benjamin Deneen
- Center for Cancer Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.
- Program in Developmental Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.
- Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.
- Cancer Cell Biology Graduate Program, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.
- Development, Disease, Models and Therapeutics Graduate Program, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.
- Department of Neurosurgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.
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16
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Hwang Y, Park JH, Kim HC, Shin EJ. GABA B receptor activation alters astrocyte phenotype changes induced by trimethyltin via ERK signaling in the dentate gyrus of mice. Life Sci 2023; 319:121529. [PMID: 36841471 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2023.121529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2022] [Revised: 02/11/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023]
Abstract
AIMS We examined the effect of γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA)B receptor activation on astrocyte phenotype changes induced by trimethyltin (TMT) in the dentate gyrus of mice. MAIN METHODS Male C57BL/6N mice received TMT (2.6 mg/kg, i.p.), and the expression of GABAB receptors was evaluated in the hippocampus. The GABAB receptor agonist baclofen (2.5, 5, or 10 mg/kg, i.p. × 5 at 12-h intervals) was administered 3-5 days after TMT treatment, and the expression of Iba-1, GFAP, and astrocyte phenotype markers was evaluated 6 days after TMT. SL327 (30 mg/kg, i.p.), an extracellular signal-related kinase (ERK) inhibitor, was administered 1 h after each baclofen treatment. KEY FINDINGS TMT insult significantly induced the astroglial expression of GABAB receptors in the dentate molecular layer. Baclofen significantly promoted the expression of S100A10, EMP1, and CD109, but not that of C3, GGTA1, and MX1 induced by TMT. In addition, baclofen significantly increased the TMT-induced expression of p-ERK in the dentate molecular layer. Interestingly, p-ERK was more colocalized with S100A10 than with C3 after TMT insult, and a significant positive correlation was found between the expression of p-ERK and S100A10. Consistently, SL327 reversed the effect of baclofen on astrocyte phenotype changes. Baclofen also enhanced the TMT-induced astroglial expression of glial cell-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF), an anti-inflammatory astrocytes-to-microglia mediator, and consequently attenuated Iba-1 expression and delayed apoptotic neuronal death. SIGNIFICANCE Our results suggest that GABAB receptor activation increases S100A10-positive anti-inflammatory astrocytes and astroglial GDNF expression via ERK signaling after TMT excitotoxicity in the dentate molecular layer of mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yeonggwang Hwang
- Neuropsychopharmacology and Toxicology Program, College of Pharmacy, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Republic of Korea
| | - Jung Hoon Park
- Neuropsychopharmacology and Toxicology Program, College of Pharmacy, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyoung-Chun Kim
- Neuropsychopharmacology and Toxicology Program, College of Pharmacy, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Republic of Korea.
| | - Eun-Joo Shin
- Neuropsychopharmacology and Toxicology Program, College of Pharmacy, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon 24341, Republic of Korea.
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17
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Dzyubenko E, Hermann DM. Role of glia and extracellular matrix in controlling neuroplasticity in the central nervous system. Semin Immunopathol 2023:10.1007/s00281-023-00989-1. [PMID: 37052711 DOI: 10.1007/s00281-023-00989-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2023] [Indexed: 04/14/2023]
Abstract
Neuronal plasticity is critical for the maintenance and modulation of brain activity. Emerging evidence indicates that glial cells actively shape neuroplasticity, allowing for highly flexible regulation of synaptic transmission, neuronal excitability, and network synchronization. Astrocytes regulate synaptogenesis, stabilize synaptic connectivity, and preserve the balance between excitation and inhibition in neuronal networks. Microglia, the brain-resident immune cells, continuously monitor and sculpt synapses, allowing for the remodeling of brain circuits. Glia-mediated neuroplasticity is driven by neuronal activity, controlled by a plethora of feedback signaling mechanisms and crucially involves extracellular matrix remodeling in the central nervous system. This review summarizes the key findings considering neurotransmission regulation and metabolic support by astrocyte-neuronal networks, and synaptic remodeling mediated by microglia. Novel data indicate that astrocytes and microglia are pivotal for controlling brain function, indicating the necessity to rethink neurocentric neuroplasticity views.
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Affiliation(s)
- Egor Dzyubenko
- Department of Neurology and Center for Translational Neuro- and Behavioral Sciences (C-TNBS), University Hospital Essen, Hufelandstr. 55, 45147, Essen, Germany.
| | - Dirk M Hermann
- Department of Neurology and Center for Translational Neuro- and Behavioral Sciences (C-TNBS), University Hospital Essen, Hufelandstr. 55, 45147, Essen, Germany.
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18
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Medina AM, Hagenauer MH, Krolewski DM, Hughes E, Forrester LCT, Walsh DM, Waselus M, Richardson E, Turner CA, Sequeira PA, Cartagena PM, Thompson RC, Vawter MP, Bunney BG, Myers RM, Barchas JD, Lee FS, Schatzberg AF, Bunney WE, Akil H, Watson SJ. Neurotransmission-related gene expression in the frontal pole is altered in subjects with bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. Transl Psychiatry 2023; 13:118. [PMID: 37031222 PMCID: PMC10082811 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-023-02418-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2022] [Revised: 03/22/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The frontal pole (Brodmann area 10, BA10) is the largest cytoarchitectonic region of the human cortex, performing complex integrative functions. BA10 undergoes intensive adolescent grey matter pruning prior to the age of onset for bipolar disorder (BP) and schizophrenia (SCHIZ), and its dysfunction is likely to underly aspects of their shared symptomology. In this study, we investigated the role of BA10 neurotransmission-related gene expression in BP and SCHIZ. We performed qPCR to measure the expression of 115 neurotransmission-related targets in control, BP, and SCHIZ postmortem samples (n = 72). We chose this method for its high sensitivity to detect low-level expression. We then strengthened our findings by performing a meta-analysis of publicly released BA10 microarray data (n = 101) and identified sources of convergence with our qPCR results. To improve interpretation, we leveraged the unusually large database of clinical metadata accompanying our samples to explore the relationship between BA10 gene expression, therapeutics, substances of abuse, and symptom profiles, and validated these findings with publicly available datasets. Using these convergent sources of evidence, we identified 20 neurotransmission-related genes that were differentially expressed in BP and SCHIZ in BA10. These results included a large diagnosis-related decrease in two important therapeutic targets with low levels of expression, HTR2B and DRD4, as well as other findings related to dopaminergic, GABAergic and astrocytic function. We also observed that therapeutics may produce a differential expression that opposes diagnosis effects. In contrast, substances of abuse showed similar effects on BA10 gene expression as BP and SCHIZ, potentially amplifying diagnosis-related dysregulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adriana M Medina
- Michigan Neuroscience Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | | | - David M Krolewski
- Michigan Neuroscience Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Evan Hughes
- Michigan Neuroscience Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | | | | | - Maria Waselus
- Michigan Neuroscience Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Evelyn Richardson
- Michigan Neuroscience Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Cortney A Turner
- Michigan Neuroscience Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | | | | | - Robert C Thompson
- Michigan Neuroscience Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | | | | | - Richard M Myers
- HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology, Huntsville, AL, USA
| | | | | | | | | | - Huda Akil
- Michigan Neuroscience Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Stanley J Watson
- Michigan Neuroscience Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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19
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Giantomasi L, Ribeiro JF, Barca-Mayo O, Malerba M, Miele E, De Pietri Tonelli D, Berdondini L. Astrocytes actively support long-range molecular clock synchronization of segregated neuronal populations. Sci Rep 2023; 13:4815. [PMID: 36964220 PMCID: PMC10038999 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-31966-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/26/2023] Open
Abstract
In mammals, the suprachiasmatic nucleus of the hypothalamus is the master circadian pacemaker that synchronizes the clocks in the central nervous system and periphery, thus orchestrating rhythms throughout the body. However, little is known about how so many cellular clocks within and across brain circuits can be effectively synchronized. In this work, we investigated the implication of two possible pathways: (i) astrocytes-mediated synchronization and (ii) neuronal paracrine factors-mediated synchronization. By taking advantage of a lab-on-a-chip microfluidic device developed in our laboratory, here we report that both pathways are involved. We found the paracrine factors-mediated synchronization of molecular clocks is diffusion-limited and, in our device, effective only in case of a short distance between neuronal populations. Interestingly, interconnecting astrocytes define an active signaling channel that can synchronize molecular clocks of neuronal populations also at longer distances. At mechanism level, we found that astrocytes-mediated synchronization involves both GABA and glutamate, while neuronal paracrine factors-mediated synchronization occurs through GABA signaling. These findings identify a previously unknown role of astrocytes as active cells that might distribute long-range signals to synchronize the brain clocks, thus further strengthening the importance of reciprocal interactions between glial and neuronal cells in the context of circadian circuitry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lidia Giantomasi
- Microtechnology for Neuroelectronics, Fondazione Istituto Italiano Di Tecnologia (IIT), 16163, Genova, Italy
| | - João F Ribeiro
- Microtechnology for Neuroelectronics, Fondazione Istituto Italiano Di Tecnologia (IIT), 16163, Genova, Italy
| | - Olga Barca-Mayo
- Neurobiology of miRNA, Fondazione Istituto Italiano Di Tecnologia (IIT), 16163, Genova, Italy
- Circadian and Glial Biology Lab, Physiology Department, Molecular Medicine, and Chronic Diseases Research Centre (CiMUS), University of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Mario Malerba
- Microtechnology for Neuroelectronics, Fondazione Istituto Italiano Di Tecnologia (IIT), 16163, Genova, Italy
- Centre de Nanosciences et de Nanotechnologies (C2N), CNRS UMR 9001, Université Paris-Saclay, 91120, Palaiseau, France
| | - Ermanno Miele
- Microtechnology for Neuroelectronics, Fondazione Istituto Italiano Di Tecnologia (IIT), 16163, Genova, Italy
- NanoPhotonics Centre, Cavendish Laboratory, Department of Physics, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | | | - Luca Berdondini
- Microtechnology for Neuroelectronics, Fondazione Istituto Italiano Di Tecnologia (IIT), 16163, Genova, Italy.
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20
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Cheng YT, Luna-Figueroa E, Woo J, Chen HC, Lee ZF, Harmanci AS, Deneen B. Inhibitory input directs astrocyte morphogenesis through glial GABA B R. bioRxiv 2023:2023.03.14.532493. [PMID: 36993256 PMCID: PMC10054985 DOI: 10.1101/2023.03.14.532493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Communication between neurons and glia plays an important role in establishing and maintaining higher order brain function. Astrocytes are endowed with complex morphologies which places their peripheral processes in close proximity to neuronal synapses and directly contributes to their regulation of brain circuits. Recent studies have shown that excitatory neuronal activity promotes oligodendrocyte differentiation; whether inhibitory neurotransmission regulates astrocyte morphogenesis during development is unknown. Here we show that inhibitory neuron activity is necessary and sufficient for astrocyte morphogenesis. We found that input from inhibitory neurons functions through astrocytic GABA B R and that its deletion in astrocytes results in a loss of morphological complexity across a host of brain regions and disruption of circuit function. Expression of GABA B R in developing astrocytes is regulated in a region-specific manner by SOX9 or NFIA and deletion of these transcription factors results in region-specific defects in astrocyte morphogenesis, which is conferred by interactions with transcription factors exhibiting region-restricted patterns of expression. Together our studies identify input from inhibitory neurons and astrocytic GABA B R as universal regulators of morphogenesis, while further revealing a combinatorial code of region-specific transcriptional dependencies for astrocyte development that is intertwined with activity-dependent processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Ting Cheng
- Center for Cancer Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston TX 77030
- Program in Developmental Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston TX 77030
| | - Estefania Luna-Figueroa
- Center for Cancer Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston TX 77030
- Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston TX 77030
| | - Junsung Woo
- Center for Cancer Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston TX 77030
- Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston TX 77030
| | - Hsiao-Chi Chen
- Center for Cancer Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston TX 77030
- Cancer Cell Biology Graduate Program, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston TX 77030
| | - Zhung-Fu Lee
- Center for Cancer Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston TX 77030
- Development, Disease, Models, and Therapeutics Graduate Program, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030
| | - Akdes Serin Harmanci
- Center for Cancer Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston TX 77030
- Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston TX 77030
| | - Benjamin Deneen
- Center for Cancer Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston TX 77030
- Program in Developmental Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston TX 77030
- Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston TX 77030
- Development, Disease, Models, and Therapeutics Graduate Program, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030
- Cancer Cell Biology Graduate Program, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston TX 77030
- Department of Neurosurgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston TX 77030
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21
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Kruyer A, Kalivas PW, Scofield MD. Astrocyte regulation of synaptic signaling in psychiatric disorders. Neuropsychopharmacology 2023; 48:21-36. [PMID: 35577914 PMCID: PMC9700696 DOI: 10.1038/s41386-022-01338-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2022] [Revised: 04/27/2022] [Accepted: 05/01/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Over the last 15 years, the field of neuroscience has evolved toward recognizing the critical role of astroglia in shaping neuronal synaptic activity and along with the pre- and postsynapse is now considered an equal partner in tripartite synaptic transmission and plasticity. The relative youth of this recognition and a corresponding deficit in reagents and technologies for quantifying and manipulating astroglia relative to neurons continues to hamper advances in understanding tripartite synaptic physiology. Nonetheless, substantial advances have been made and are reviewed herein. We review the role of astroglia in synaptic function and regulation of behavior with an eye on how tripartite synapses figure into brain pathologies underlying behavioral impairments in psychiatric disorders, both from the perspective of measures in postmortem human brains and more subtle influences on tripartite synaptic regulation of behavior in animal models of psychiatric symptoms. Our goal is to provide the reader a well-referenced state-of-the-art understanding of current knowledge and predict what we may discover with deeper investigation of tripartite synapses using reagents and technologies not yet available.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Kruyer
- Department of Neuroscience, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Peter W Kalivas
- Department of Neuroscience, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA.
- Ralph H. Johnson Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Charleston, SC, USA.
| | - Michael D Scofield
- Department of Neuroscience, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA.
- Department of Anesthesia & Perioperative Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA.
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22
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Goenaga J, Araque A, Kofuji P, Herrera Moro Chao D. Calcium signaling in astrocytes and gliotransmitter release. Front Synaptic Neurosci 2023; 15:1138577. [PMID: 36937570 PMCID: PMC10017551 DOI: 10.3389/fnsyn.2023.1138577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Glia are as numerous in the brain as neurons and widely known to serve supportive roles such as structural scaffolding, extracellular ionic and neurotransmitter homeostasis, and metabolic support. However, over the past two decades, several lines of evidence indicate that astrocytes, which are a type of glia, play active roles in neural information processing. Astrocytes, although not electrically active, can exhibit a form of excitability by dynamic changes in intracellular calcium levels. They sense synaptic activity and release neuroactive substances, named gliotransmitters, that modulate neuronal activity and synaptic transmission in several brain areas, thus impacting animal behavior. This "dialogue" between astrocytes and neurons is embodied in the concept of the tripartite synapse that includes astrocytes as integral elements of synaptic function. Here, we review the recent work and discuss how astrocytes via calcium-mediated excitability modulate synaptic information processing at various spatial and time scales.
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23
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Sugisaki E, Fukushima Y, Nakajima N, Aihara T. The dependence of acetylcholine on dynamic changes in the membrane potential and an action potential during spike timing-dependent plasticity induction in the hippocampus. Eur J Neurosci 2022; 56:5972-5986. [PMID: 36164804 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.15832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2022] [Revised: 09/01/2022] [Accepted: 09/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
The hippocampus is an important area for memory encoding and retrieval and is the location of spike timing-dependent plasticity (STDP), a basic phenomenon of learning and memory. STDP is facilitated if acetylcholine (ACh) is released from cholinergic neurons during attentional processes. However, it is unclear how ACh influences postsynaptic changes during STDP induction and determines the STDP magnitude. To address these issues, we obtained patch clamp recordings from CA1 pyramidal neurons to evaluate the postsynaptic changes during stimuli injection in Schaffer collaterals by quantifying baseline amplitudes (i.e., the lowest values elicited by paired pulses comprising STDP stimuli) and action potentials. The results showed that baseline amplitudes were elevated if eserine was applied in the presence of picrotoxin. In addition, muscarinic ACh receptors (mAChRs) contributed more to the baseline amplitude elevation than nicotinic AChRs (nAChRs). Moreover, the magnitude of the STDP depended on the magnitude of the baseline amplitude. However, in the absence of picrotoxin, baseline amplitudes were balanced, regardless of the ACh concentration, resulting in a similar magnitude of the STDP, except under the nAChR alone-activated condition, which showed a larger STDP and lower baseline amplitude induction. This was due to broadened widths of action potentials. These results suggest that activation of mAChRs and nAChRs, which are effective for baseline amplitudes and action potentials, respectively, plays an important role in postsynaptic changes during memory consolidation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eriko Sugisaki
- Brain Science Institute, Tamagawa University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yasuhiro Fukushima
- Brain Science Institute, Tamagawa University, Tokyo, Japan.,Kawasaki University of Medical Welfare, Okayama, Japan
| | - Naoki Nakajima
- Graduated School of Engineering, Tamagawa University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takeshi Aihara
- Brain Science Institute, Tamagawa University, Tokyo, Japan
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24
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Negri S, Scolari F, Vismara M, Brunetti V, Faris P, Terribile G, Sancini G, Berra-Romani R, Moccia F. GABA(A) and GABA(B) Receptors Mediate GABA-Induced Intracellular Ca(2+) Signals in Human Brain Microvascular Endothelial Cells. Cells 2022; 11. [PMID: 36497118 DOI: 10.3390/cells11233860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2022] [Revised: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Numerous studies recently showed that the inhibitory neurotransmitter, γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA), can stimulate cerebral angiogenesis and promote neurovascular coupling by activating the ionotropic GABAA receptors on cerebrovascular endothelial cells, whereas the endothelial role of the metabotropic GABAB receptors is still unknown. Preliminary evidence showed that GABAA receptor stimulation can induce an increase in endothelial Ca2+ levels, but the underlying signaling pathway remains to be fully unraveled. In the present investigation, we found that GABA evoked a biphasic elevation in [Ca2+]i that was initiated by inositol-1,4,5-trisphosphate- and nicotinic acid adenine dinucleotide phosphate-dependent Ca2+ release from neutral and acidic Ca2+ stores, respectively, and sustained by store-operated Ca2+ entry. GABAA and GABAB receptors were both required to trigger the endothelial Ca2+ response. Unexpectedly, we found that the GABAA receptors signal in a flux-independent manner via the metabotropic GABAB receptors. Likewise, the full Ca2+ response to GABAB receptors requires functional GABAA receptors. This study, therefore, sheds novel light on the molecular mechanisms by which GABA controls endothelial signaling at the neurovascular unit.
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25
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Kim S, Kwon J, Park MG, Lee CJ. Dopamine-induced astrocytic Ca 2+ signaling in mPFC is mediated by MAO-B in young mice, but by dopamine receptors in adult mice. Mol Brain 2022; 15:90. [PMID: 36397051 PMCID: PMC9670619 DOI: 10.1186/s13041-022-00977-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2022] [Accepted: 10/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Dopamine (DA) plays a vital role in brain physiology and pathology such as learning and memory, motor control, neurological diseases, and psychiatric diseases. In neurons, it has been well established that DA increases or decreases intracellular cyclic AMP (cAMP) through D1-like or D2-like dopamine receptors, respectively. In contrast, it has been elusive how astrocytes respond to DA via Ca2+ signaling and regulate synaptic transmission and reward systems. Previous studies suggest various molecular targets such as MAO-B, D1R, or D1R-D2R heteromer to modulate astrocytic Ca2+ signaling. However, which molecular target is utilized under what physiological condition remains unclear. Here, we show that DA-induced astrocytic Ca2+ signaling pathway switches during development: MAO-B is the major player at a young age (5-6 weeks), whereas DA receptors (DARs) are responsible for the adult period (8-12 weeks). DA-mediated Ca2+ response in the adult period was decreased by either D1R or D2R blockers, which are primarily known for cyclic AMP signaling (Gs and Gi pathway, respectively), suggesting that this Ca2+ response might be mediated through Gq pathway by D1R-D2R heterodimer. Moreover, DAR-mediated Ca2+ response was not blocked by TTX, implying that this response is not a secondary response caused by neuronal activation. Our study proposes an age-specific molecular target of DA-induced astrocytic Ca2+ signaling: MAO-B in young mice and DAR in adult mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sunpil Kim
- grid.222754.40000 0001 0840 2678KU-KIST Graduate School of Converging Science and Technology, Korea University, 145 Anam-Ro, Seongbuk-Gu, Seoul, 02841 Republic of Korea ,grid.410720.00000 0004 1784 4496Center for Cognition and Sociality, Cognitive Glioscience Group, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), 55 Expo-Ro, Yusung-Gu, Daejeon, 34126 Republic of Korea
| | - Jea Kwon
- grid.410720.00000 0004 1784 4496Center for Cognition and Sociality, Cognitive Glioscience Group, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), 55 Expo-Ro, Yusung-Gu, Daejeon, 34126 Republic of Korea
| | - Mingu Gordon Park
- grid.222754.40000 0001 0840 2678KU-KIST Graduate School of Converging Science and Technology, Korea University, 145 Anam-Ro, Seongbuk-Gu, Seoul, 02841 Republic of Korea ,grid.410720.00000 0004 1784 4496Center for Cognition and Sociality, Cognitive Glioscience Group, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), 55 Expo-Ro, Yusung-Gu, Daejeon, 34126 Republic of Korea
| | - C. Justin Lee
- grid.222754.40000 0001 0840 2678KU-KIST Graduate School of Converging Science and Technology, Korea University, 145 Anam-Ro, Seongbuk-Gu, Seoul, 02841 Republic of Korea ,grid.410720.00000 0004 1784 4496Center for Cognition and Sociality, Cognitive Glioscience Group, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), 55 Expo-Ro, Yusung-Gu, Daejeon, 34126 Republic of Korea
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26
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Jiménez-Dinamarca I, Reyes-Lizana R, Lemunao-Inostroza Y, Cárdenas K, Castro-Lazo R, Peña F, Lucero CM, Prieto-Villalobos J, Retamal MA, Orellana JA, Stehberg J. GABAergic Regulation of Astroglial Gliotransmission through Cx43 Hemichannels. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:13625. [PMID: 36362410 PMCID: PMC9656947 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232113625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2022] [Revised: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 10/09/2022] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Gamma-Aminobutyric acid (GABA) is the primary inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain. It is produced by interneurons and recycled by astrocytes. In neurons, GABA activates the influx of Cl- via the GABAA receptor or efflux or K+ via the GABAB receptor, inducing hyperpolarization and synaptic inhibition. In astrocytes, the activation of both GABAA and GABAB receptors induces an increase in intracellular Ca2+ and the release of glutamate and ATP. Connexin 43 (Cx43) hemichannels are among the main Ca2+-dependent cellular mechanisms for the astroglial release of glutamate and ATP. However, no study has evaluated the effect of GABA on astroglial Cx43 hemichannel activity and Cx43 hemichannel-mediated gliotransmission. Here we assessed the effects of GABA on Cx43 hemichannel activity in DI NCT1 rat astrocytes and hippocampal brain slices. We found that GABA induces a Ca2+-dependent increase in Cx43 hemichannel activity in astrocytes mediated by the GABAA receptor, as it was blunted by the GABAA receptor antagonist bicuculline but unaffected by GABAB receptor antagonist CGP55845. Moreover, GABA induced the Cx43 hemichannel-dependent release of glutamate and ATP, which was also prevented by bicuculline, but unaffected by CGP. Gliotransmission in response to GABA was also unaffected by pannexin 1 channel blockade. These results are discussed in terms of the possible role of astroglial Cx43 hemichannel-mediated glutamate and ATP release in regulating the excitatory/inhibitory balance in the brain and their possible contribution to psychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivanka Jiménez-Dinamarca
- Laboratorio de Neurobiología, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Andres Bello, Santiago 8370186, Chile
| | - Rachel Reyes-Lizana
- Laboratorio de Neurobiología, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Andres Bello, Santiago 8370186, Chile
| | - Yordan Lemunao-Inostroza
- Laboratorio de Neurobiología, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Andres Bello, Santiago 8370186, Chile
| | - Kevin Cárdenas
- Laboratorio de Neurobiología, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Andres Bello, Santiago 8370186, Chile
| | - Raimundo Castro-Lazo
- Laboratorio de Neurobiología, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Andres Bello, Santiago 8370186, Chile
| | - Francisca Peña
- Laboratorio de Neurobiología, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Andres Bello, Santiago 8370186, Chile
- Centro de Fisiología Celular e Integrativa, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad del Desarrollo–Clínica Alemana, Santiago 7780272, Chile
| | - Claudia M. Lucero
- Departamento de Neurología, Escuela de Medicina and Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencias, Facultad de Medicina, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8330024, Chile
| | - Juan Prieto-Villalobos
- Departamento de Neurología, Escuela de Medicina and Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencias, Facultad de Medicina, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8330024, Chile
| | - Mauricio Antonio Retamal
- Centro de Fisiología Celular e Integrativa, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad del Desarrollo–Clínica Alemana, Santiago 7780272, Chile
| | - Juan Andrés Orellana
- Departamento de Neurología, Escuela de Medicina and Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencias, Facultad de Medicina, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8330024, Chile
| | - Jimmy Stehberg
- Laboratorio de Neurobiología, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Andres Bello, Santiago 8370186, Chile
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27
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Pandey P, Kaur G, Babu K. Crosstalk between neurons and glia through G-protein coupled receptors: Insights from Caenorhabditis elegans. Prog Mol Biol Transl Sci 2022; 193:119-144. [PMID: 36357074 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pmbts.2022.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
The past decades have witnessed a dogmatic shift from glia as supporting cells in the nervous system to their active roles in neurocentric functions. Neurons and glia communicate and show bidirectional responses through tripartite synapses. Studies across species indicate that neurotransmitters released by neurons are perceived by glial receptors, which allow for gliotransmitter release. These gliotransmitters can result in activation of neurons via neuronal GPCR receptors. However, studies of these molecular interactions are in their infancy. Caenorhabditis elegans has a conserved neuron-glia architectural repertoire with molecular and functional resemblance to mammals. Further, glia in C. elegans can be manipulated through ablation and mutations allowing for deciphering of glial dependent processes in vivo at single glial resolutions. Here, we will review recent findings from vertebrate and invertebrate organisms with a focus on how C. elegans can be used to advance our understanding of neuron-glia interactions through GPCRs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pratima Pandey
- Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Mohali, Punjab, India.
| | - Gazaldeep Kaur
- National Agri-Food Biotechnology Institute, Mohali, Punjab, India
| | - Kavita Babu
- Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, Karnataka, India.
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28
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Shen W, Li Z, Tang Y, Han P, Zhu F, Dong J, Ma T, Zhao K, Zhang X, Xie Y, Zeng LH. Somatostatin interneurons inhibit excitatory transmission mediated by astrocytic GABA B and presynaptic GABA B and adenosine A 1 receptors in the hippocampus. J Neurochem 2022; 163:310-326. [PMID: 35775994 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.15662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2021] [Revised: 06/14/2022] [Accepted: 06/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
GABAergic network activity has been established to be involved in numerous physiological processes and pathological conditions. Extensive studies have corroborated that GABAergic network activity regulates excitatory synaptic networks by activating presynaptic GABAB receptors (GABAB Rs). It is well documented that astrocytes express GABAB Rs and respond to GABAergic network activity. However, little is known about whether astrocytic GABAB Rs regulate excitatory synaptic transmission mediated by GABAergic network activity. To address this issue, we combined whole-cell recordings, optogenetics, calcium imaging, and pharmacological approaches to specifically activate hippocampal somatostatin-expressing interneurons (SOM-INs), a type of interneuron that targets pyramidal cell dendrites, while monitoring excitatory synaptic transmission in CA1 pyramidal cells. We found that optogenetic stimulation of SOM-INs increases astrocyte Ca2+ signaling via the activation of astrocytic GABAB Rs and GAT-3. SOM-INs depress excitatory neurotransmission by activating presynaptic GABAB Rs and astrocytic GABAB Rs, the latter inducing the release of ATP/adenosine. In turn, adenosine inhibits excitatory synaptic transmission by activating presynaptic adenosine A1 receptors (A1 Rs). Overall, our results reveal a novel mechanism that SOM-INs activation-induced synaptic depression is partially mediated by the activation of astrocytic GABAB Rs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weida Shen
- School of Medicine, Zhejiang University City College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Zijing Li
- School of Medicine, Zhejiang University City College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yejiao Tang
- School of Medicine, Zhejiang University City College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Pufan Han
- School of Medicine, Zhejiang University City College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Feng Zhu
- School of Medicine, Zhejiang University City College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jingyin Dong
- School of Medicine, Zhejiang University City College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Tianyu Ma
- School of Medicine, Zhejiang University City College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Kai Zhao
- School of Medicine, Zhejiang University City College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xin Zhang
- School of Medicine, Zhejiang University City College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yicheng Xie
- The Children's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health, Hangzhou, China
| | - Ling-Hui Zeng
- School of Medicine, Zhejiang University City College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
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29
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Abstract
Astrocytes, the most numerous glial cells in the brain, play an important role in preserving normal neural functions and mediating the pathogenesis of neurological disorders. Recent studies have shown that astrocytes are GABAceptive and GABAergic astrocytes express GABAA receptors, GABAB receptors, and GABA transporter proteins to capture and internalize GABA. GABAceptive astrocytes thus influence both inhibitory and excitatory neurotransmission by controlling the levels of extracellular GABA. Furthermore, astrocytes synthesize and release GABA to directly regulate brain functions. In this review, we highlight recent research progresses that support astrocytes as GABAceptive and GABAergic cells. We also summarize the roles of GABAceptive and GABAergic astrocytes that serve as an inhibitory node in the intercellular communication in the brain. Besides, we discuss future directions for further expanding our knowledge on the GABAceptive and GABAergic astrocyte signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianhui Liu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Tongji Hospital affiliated to Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xuanran Feng
- Department of Anesthesiology, Tongji Hospital affiliated to Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yi Wang
- Translational Research Center, Shanghai Yangzhi Rehabilitation Hospital affiliated to Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaohuan Xia
- Department of Anesthesiology, Tongji Hospital affiliated to Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Center for Translational Neurodegeneration and Regenerative Therapy, Tongji Hospital affiliated to Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Nanocatalytic Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Translational Research Institute of Brain and Brain-Like Intelligence, Shanghai Fourth People's Hospital affiliated to Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jialin C Zheng
- Department of Anesthesiology, Tongji Hospital affiliated to Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Center for Translational Neurodegeneration and Regenerative Therapy, Tongji Hospital affiliated to Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Nanocatalytic Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Translational Research Institute of Brain and Brain-Like Intelligence, Shanghai Fourth People's Hospital affiliated to Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
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30
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Abstract
It is commonly accepted that the role of astrocytes exceeds far beyond neuronal scaffold and energy supply. Their unique morphological and functional features have recently brough much attention as it became evident that they play a fundamental role in neurotransmission and interact with synapses. Synaptic transmission is a highly orchestrated process, which triggers local and transient elevations in intracellular Ca2+, a phenomenon with specific temporal and spatial properties. Presynaptic activation of Ca2+-dependent adenylyl cyclases represents an important mechanism of synaptic transmission modulation. This involves activation of the cAMP-PKA pathway to regulate neurotransmitter synthesis, release and storage, and to increase neuroprotection. This aspect is of paramount importance for the preservation of neuronal survival and functionality in several pathological states occurring with progressive neuronal loss. Hence, the aim of this review is to discuss mutual relationships between cAMP and Ca2+ signaling and emphasize those alterations at the Ca2+/cAMP crosstalk that have been identified in neurodegenerative disorders, such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease.
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31
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Henriques VJ, Chiavegato A, Carmignoto G, Gómez-gonzalo M. Astrocytes Modulate Somatostatin Interneuron Signaling in the Visual Cortex. Cells 2022; 11:1400. [PMID: 35563706 PMCID: PMC9102536 DOI: 10.3390/cells11091400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2022] [Revised: 04/14/2022] [Accepted: 04/18/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
At glutamatergic synapses, astrocytes respond to the neurotransmitter glutamate with intracellular Ca2+ elevations and the release of gliotransmitters that modulate synaptic transmission. While the functional interactions between neurons and astrocytes have been intensively studied at glutamatergic synapses, the role of astrocytes at GABAergic synapses has been less investigated. In the present study, we combine optogenetics with 2-photon Ca2+ imaging experiments and patch-clamp recording techniques to investigate the signaling between Somatostatin (SST)-releasing GABAergic interneurons and astrocytes in brain slice preparations from the visual cortex (VCx). We found that an intense stimulation of SST interneurons evokes Ca2+ elevations in astrocytes that fundamentally depend on GABAB receptor (GABABR) activation, and that this astrocyte response is modulated by the neuropeptide somatostatin. After episodes of SST interneuron hyperactivity, we also observed a long-lasting reduction of the inhibitory postsynaptic current (IPSC) amplitude onto pyramidal neurons (PNs). This reduction of inhibitory tone (i.e., disinhibition) is counterbalanced by the activation of astrocytes that upregulate SST interneuron-evoked IPSC amplitude by releasing ATP that, after conversion to adenosine, activates A1Rs. Our results describe a hitherto unidentified modulatory mechanism of inhibitory transmission to VCx layer II/III PNs that involves the functional recruitment of astrocytes by SST interneuron signaling.
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32
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Bassetti D. Keeping the Balance: GABAB Receptors in the Developing Brain and Beyond. Brain Sci 2022; 12:419. [PMID: 35447949 PMCID: PMC9031223 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci12040419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2022] [Revised: 03/18/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The main neurotransmitter in the brain responsible for the inhibition of neuronal activity is γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA). It plays a crucial role in circuit formation during development, both via its primary effects as a neurotransmitter and also as a trophic factor. The GABAB receptors (GABABRs) are G protein-coupled metabotropic receptors; on one hand, they can influence proliferation and migration; and, on the other, they can inhibit cells by modulating the function of K+ and Ca2+ channels, doing so on a slower time scale and with a longer-lasting effect compared to ionotropic GABAA receptors. GABABRs are expressed pre- and post-synaptically, at both glutamatergic and GABAergic terminals, thus being able to shape neuronal activity, plasticity, and the balance between excitatory and inhibitory synaptic transmission in response to varying levels of extracellular GABA concentration. Furthermore, given their subunit composition and their ability to form complexes with several associated proteins, GABABRs display heterogeneity with regard to their function, which makes them a promising target for pharmacological interventions. This review will describe (i) the latest results concerning GABABRs/GABABR-complex structures, their function, and the developmental time course of their appearance and functional integration in the brain, (ii) their involvement in manifestation of various pathophysiological conditions, and (iii) the current status of preclinical and clinical studies involving GABABR-targeting drugs.
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Xia S, Xu HT. Astrocytic Gap Junctions Contribute to Aberrant Neuronal Synchronization in a Mouse Model of MeCP2 Duplication Syndrome. Neurosci Bull 2022. [PMID: 35147909 DOI: 10.1007/s12264-022-00824-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2021] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Abnormal synchronous neuronal activity has been widely detected by brain imaging of autistic patients, but its underlying neural mechanism remains unclear. Compared with wild-type mice, our in vivo two-photon imaging showed that transgenic (Tg1) mice over-expressing human autism risk gene MeCP2 exhibited higher neuronal synchrony in the young but lower synchrony in the adult stage. Whole-cell recording of neuronal pairs in brain slices revealed that higher neuronal synchrony in young postnatal Tg1 mice was attributed mainly to more prevalent giant slow inward currents (SICs). Both in vivo and slice imaging further demonstrated more dynamic activity and higher synchrony in astrocytes from young Tg1 mice. Blocking astrocytic gap junctions markedly decreased the generation of SICs and overall cell synchrony in the Tg1 brain. Furthermore, the expression level of Cx43 protein and the coupling efficiency of astrocyte gap junctions remained unchanged in Tg1 mice. Thus, astrocytic gap junctions facilitate but do not act as a direct trigger for the abnormal neuronal synchrony in young Tg1 mice, revealing the potential role of the astrocyte network in the pathogenesis of MeCP2 duplication syndrome.
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Abstract
Astrocytes are non-neuronal cells that regulate synapses, neuronal circuits, and behavior. Astrocytes ensheath neuronal synapses to form the tripartite synapse where astrocytes influence synapse formation, function, and plasticity. Beyond the synapse, recent research has revealed that astrocyte influences on the nervous system extend to the modulation of neuronal circuitry and behavior. Here we review recent findings on the active role of astrocytes in behavioral modulation with a focus on in vivo studies, primarily in mice. Using tools to acutely manipulate astrocytes, such as optogenetics or chemogenetics, studies reviewed here have demonstrated a causal role for astrocytes in sleep, memory, sensorimotor behaviors, feeding, fear, anxiety, and cognitive processes like attention and behavioral flexibility. Current tools and future directions for astrocyte-specific manipulation, including methods for probing astrocyte heterogeneity, are discussed. Understanding the contribution of astrocytes to neuronal circuit activity and organismal behavior will be critical toward understanding how nervous system function gives rise to behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krissy A Lyon
- Molecular Neurobiology Laboratory, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Nicola J Allen
- Molecular Neurobiology Laboratory, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, CA, United States
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35
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Logiacco F, Xia P, Georgiev SV, Franconi C, Chang YJ, Ugursu B, Sporbert A, Kühn R, Kettenmann H, Semtner M. Microglia sense neuronal activity via GABA in the early postnatal hippocampus. Cell Rep 2021; 37:110128. [PMID: 34965412 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2021.110128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2021] [Revised: 09/14/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Microglia, the resident macrophages in the central nervous system, express receptors for classical neurotransmitters, such as γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and glutamate, suggesting that they sense synaptic activity. To detect microglial Ca2+ responses to neuronal activity, we generate transgenic mouse lines expressing the fluorescent Ca2+ indicator GCaMP6m, specifically in microglia and demonstrate that electrical stimulation of the Schaffer collateral pathway results in microglial Ca2+ responses in early postnatal but not adult hippocampus. Preceding the microglial responses, we also observe similar Ca2+ responses in astrocytes, and both are sensitive to tetrodotoxin. Blocking astrocytic glutamate uptake or GABA transport abolishes stimulation-induced microglial responses as well as antagonizing the microglial GABAB receptor. Our data, therefore, suggest that the neuronal activity-induced glutamate uptake and the release of GABA by astrocytes trigger the activation of GABAB receptors in microglia. This neuron, astrocyte, and microglia communication pathway might modulate microglial activity in developing neuronal networks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Logiacco
- Cellular Neurosciences, Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association, 13125 Berlin, Germany; Department of Biology, Chemistry, and Pharmacy, Freie Universität Berlin, 12169 Berlin, Germany
| | - Pengfei Xia
- Cellular Neurosciences, Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association, 13125 Berlin, Germany
| | - Svilen Veselinov Georgiev
- Cellular Neurosciences, Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association, 13125 Berlin, Germany
| | - Celeste Franconi
- Cellular Neurosciences, Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association, 13125 Berlin, Germany
| | - Yi-Jen Chang
- Cellular Neurosciences, Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association, 13125 Berlin, Germany
| | - Bilge Ugursu
- Cellular Neurosciences, Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association, 13125 Berlin, Germany; Experimental Ophthalmology, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353 Berlin, Germany
| | - Anje Sporbert
- Advanced Light Microscopy, Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association, 13125 Berlin, Germany
| | - Ralf Kühn
- Transgenic Core Facility, Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association, 13125 Berlin, Germany
| | - Helmut Kettenmann
- Cellular Neurosciences, Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association, 13125 Berlin, Germany; Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
| | - Marcus Semtner
- Cellular Neurosciences, Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association, 13125 Berlin, Germany.
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36
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Twible C, Abdo R, Zhang Q. Astrocyte Role in Temporal Lobe Epilepsy and Development of Mossy Fiber Sprouting. Front Cell Neurosci 2021; 15:725693. [PMID: 34658792 PMCID: PMC8514632 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2021.725693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2021] [Accepted: 09/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Epilepsy affects approximately 50 million people worldwide, with 60% of adult epilepsies presenting an onset of focal origin. The most common focal epilepsy is temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE). The role of astrocytes in the presentation and development of TLE has been increasingly studied and discussed within the literature. The most common histopathological diagnosis of TLE is hippocampal sclerosis. Hippocampal sclerosis is characterized by neuronal cell loss within the Cornu ammonis and reactive astrogliosis. In some cases, mossy fiber sprouting may be observed. Mossy fiber sprouting has been controversial in its contribution to epileptogenesis in TLE patients, and the mechanisms surrounding the phenomenon have yet to be elucidated. Several studies have reported that mossy fiber sprouting has an almost certain co-existence with reactive astrogliosis within the hippocampus under epileptic conditions. Astrocytes are known to play an important role in the survival and axonal outgrowth of central and peripheral nervous system neurons, pointing to a potential role of astrocytes in TLE and associated cellular alterations. Herein, we review the recent developments surrounding the role of astrocytes in the pathogenic process of TLE and mossy fiber sprouting, with a focus on proposed signaling pathways and cellular mechanisms, histological observations, and clinical correlations in human patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolyn Twible
- Department of Pathology and Lab Medicine, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Rober Abdo
- Department of Pathology and Lab Medicine, Western University, London, ON, Canada.,Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Qi Zhang
- Department of Pathology and Lab Medicine, Western University, London, ON, Canada.,Department of Pathology and Lab Medicine, London Health Sciences Centre, University Hospital, London, ON, Canada
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Gascoigne DA, Drobyshevsky A, Aksenov DP. The Contribution of Dysfunctional Chloride Channels to Neurovascular Deficiency and Neurodegeneration. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:754743. [PMID: 34671264 PMCID: PMC8520995 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.754743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2021] [Accepted: 09/21/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- David A. Gascoigne
- Department of Radiology, NorthShore University HealthSystem, Evanston, IL, United States
| | - Alexander Drobyshevsky
- Department of Pediatrics, NorthShore University HealthSystem, Evanston, IL, United States
| | - Daniil P. Aksenov
- Department of Radiology, NorthShore University HealthSystem, Evanston, IL, United States,Department of Anesthesiology, NorthShore University HealthSystem, Evanston, IL, United States,*Correspondence: Daniil P. Aksenov,
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38
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Liu X, Ying J, Wang X, Zheng Q, Zhao T, Yoon S, Yu W, Yang D, Fang Y, Hua F. Astrocytes in Neural Circuits: Key Factors in Synaptic Regulation and Potential Targets for Neurodevelopmental Disorders. Front Mol Neurosci 2021; 14:729273. [PMID: 34658786 PMCID: PMC8515196 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2021.729273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2021] [Accepted: 09/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Astrocytes are the major glial cells in the brain, which play a supporting role in the energy and nutritional supply of neurons. They were initially regarded as passive space-filling cells, but the latest progress in the study of the development and function of astrocytes highlights their active roles in regulating synaptic transmission, formation, and plasticity. In the concept of "tripartite synapse," the bidirectional influence between astrocytes and neurons, in addition to their steady-state and supporting function, suggests that any negative changes in the structure or function of astrocytes will affect the activity of neurons, leading to neurodevelopmental disorders. The role of astrocytes in the pathophysiology of various neurological and psychiatric disorders caused by synaptic defects is increasingly appreciated. Understanding the roles of astrocytes in regulating synaptic development and the plasticity of neural circuits could help provide new treatments for these diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xing Liu
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
- Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang, China
| | - Jun Ying
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
- Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang, China
| | - Xifeng Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Qingcui Zheng
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
- Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang, China
| | - Tiancheng Zhao
- Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Sungtae Yoon
- Helping Minds International Charitable Foundation, New York, NY, United States
| | - Wen Yu
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
- Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang, China
| | - Danying Yang
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
- Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang, China
| | - Yang Fang
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
- Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang, China
| | - Fuzhou Hua
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
- Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang, China
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39
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Akther S, Hirase H. Assessment of astrocytes as a mediator of memory and learning in rodents. Glia 2021; 70:1484-1505. [PMID: 34582594 DOI: 10.1002/glia.24099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Revised: 09/15/2021] [Accepted: 09/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
The classical view of astrocytes is that they provide supportive functions for neurons, transporting metabolites and maintaining the homeostasis of the extracellular milieu. This view is gradually changing with the advent of molecular genetics and optical methods allowing interrogation of selected cell types in live experimental animals. An emerging view that astrocytes additionally act as a mediator of synaptic plasticity and contribute to learning processes has gained in vitro and in vivo experimental support. Here we focus on the literature published in the past two decades to review the roles of astrocytes in brain plasticity in rodents, whereby the roles of neurotransmitters and neuromodulators are considered to be comparable to those in humans. We outline established inputs and outputs of astrocytes and discuss how manipulations of astrocytes have impacted the behavior in various learning paradigms. Multiple studies suggest that the contribution of astrocytes has a considerably longer time course than neuronal activation, indicating metabolic roles of astrocytes. We advocate that exploring upstream and downstream mechanisms of astrocytic activation will further provide insight into brain plasticity and memory/learning impairment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonam Akther
- Center for Translational Neuromedicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Hajime Hirase
- Center for Translational Neuromedicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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40
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Van Den Herrewegen Y, Sanderson TM, Sahu S, De Bundel D, Bortolotto ZA, Smolders I. Side-by-side comparison of the effects of Gq- and Gi-DREADD-mediated astrocyte modulation on intracellular calcium dynamics and synaptic plasticity in the hippocampal CA1. Mol Brain 2021; 14:144. [PMID: 34544455 PMCID: PMC8451082 DOI: 10.1186/s13041-021-00856-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Accepted: 09/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Astrocytes express a plethora of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) that are crucial for shaping synaptic activity. Upon GPCR activation, astrocytes can respond with transient variations in intracellular Ca2+. In addition, Ca2+-dependent and/or Ca2+-independent release of gliotransmitters can occur, allowing them to engage in bidirectional neuron-astrocyte communication. The development of designer receptors exclusively activated by designer drugs (DREADDs) has facilitated many new discoveries on the roles of astrocytes in both physiological and pathological conditions. They are an excellent tool, as they can target endogenous GPCR-mediated intracellular signal transduction pathways specifically in astrocytes. With increasing interest and accumulating research on this topic, several discrepancies on astrocytic Ca2+ signalling and astrocyte-mediated effects on synaptic plasticity have emerged, preventing a clear-cut consensus about the downstream effects of DREADDs in astrocytes. In the present study, we performed a side-by-side evaluation of the effects of bath application of the DREADD agonist, clozapine-N-oxide (10 µM), on Gq- and Gi-DREADD activation in mouse CA1 hippocampal astrocytes. In doing so, we aimed to avoid confounding factors, such as differences in experimental procedures, and to directly compare the actions of both DREADDs on astrocytic intracellular Ca2+ dynamics and synaptic plasticity in acute hippocampal slices. We used an adeno-associated viral vector approach to transduce dorsal hippocampi of male, 8-week-old C57BL6/J mice, to drive expression of either the Gq-DREADD or Gi-DREADD in CA1 astrocytes. A viral vector lacking the DREADD construct was used to generate controls. Here, we show that agonism of Gq-DREADDs, but not Gi-DREADDs, induced consistent increases in spontaneous astrocytic Ca2+ events. Moreover, we demonstrate that both Gq-DREADD as well as Gi-DREADD-mediated activation of CA1 astrocytes induces long-lasting synaptic potentiation in the hippocampal CA1 Schaffer collateral pathway in the absence of a high frequency stimulus. Moreover, we report for the first time that astrocytic Gi-DREADD activation is sufficient to elicit de novo potentiation. Our data demonstrate that activation of either Gq or Gi pathways drives synaptic potentiation through Ca2+-dependent and Ca2+-independent mechanisms, respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yana Van Den Herrewegen
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Drug Analysis and Drug Information, Research Group Experimental Pharmacology, Center for Neurosciences (C4N), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Thomas M Sanderson
- School of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience, University of Bristol, Tankard's Cl, University Walk, BS8 1TD, Bristol, UK
| | - Surajit Sahu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Drug Analysis and Drug Information, Research Group Experimental Pharmacology, Center for Neurosciences (C4N), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Dimitri De Bundel
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Drug Analysis and Drug Information, Research Group Experimental Pharmacology, Center for Neurosciences (C4N), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Zuner A Bortolotto
- School of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience, University of Bristol, Tankard's Cl, University Walk, BS8 1TD, Bristol, UK
| | - Ilse Smolders
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Drug Analysis and Drug Information, Research Group Experimental Pharmacology, Center for Neurosciences (C4N), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090, Brussels, Belgium.
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41
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Abstract
Astrocytes are sensitive to ongoing neuronal/network activities and, accordingly, regulate neuronal functions (synaptic transmission, synaptic plasticity, behavior, etc.) by the context-dependent release of several gliotransmitters (e.g., glutamate, glycine, D-serine, ATP). To sense diverse input, astrocytes express a plethora of G-protein coupled receptors, which couple, via Gi/o and Gq, to the intracellular Ca2+ release channel IP3-receptor (IP3R). Indeed, manipulating astrocytic IP3R-Ca2+ signaling is highly consequential at the network and behavioral level: Depleting IP3R subtype 2 (IP3R2) results in reduced GPCR-Ca2+ signaling and impaired synaptic plasticity; enhancing IP3R-Ca2+ signaling affects cognitive functions such as learning and memory, sleep, and mood. However, as a result of discrepancies in the literature, the role of GPCR-IP3R-Ca2+ signaling, especially under physiological conditions, remains inconclusive. One primary reason for this could be that IP3R2 has been used to represent all astrocytic IP3Rs, including IP3R1 and IP3R3. Indeed, IP3R1 and IP3R3 are unique Ca2+ channels in their own right; they have unique biophysical properties, often display distinct distribution, and are differentially regulated. As a result, they mediate different physiological roles to IP3R2. Thus, these additional channels promise to enrich the diversity of spatiotemporal Ca2+ dynamics and provide unique opportunities for integrating neuronal input and modulating astrocyte–neuron communication. The current review weighs evidence supporting the existence of multiple astrocytic-IP3R isoforms, summarizes distinct sub-type specific properties that shape spatiotemporal Ca2+ dynamics. We also discuss existing experimental tools and future refinements to better recapitulate the endogenous activities of each IP3R isoform.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark W Sherwood
- University of Bordeaux, INSERM, Neurocentre Magendie, U1215, Bordeaux, France
| | - Misa Arizono
- University of Bordeaux, CNRS, Interdisciplinary Institute for Neuroscience, IINS, UMR 5297, Bordeaux, France
| | - Aude Panatier
- University of Bordeaux, INSERM, Neurocentre Magendie, U1215, Bordeaux, France
| | - Katsuhiko Mikoshiba
- ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China.,Faculty of Science, Toho University, Funabashi, Japan.,RIKEN CLST, Kobe, Japan
| | - Stéphane H R Oliet
- University of Bordeaux, INSERM, Neurocentre Magendie, U1215, Bordeaux, France
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42
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Liu Y, Shao J, Gao D, Zhang L, Yang F. Astrocytes in the Ventromedial Hypothalamus Involve Chronic Stress-Induced Anxiety and Bone Loss in Mice. Neural Plast 2021; 2021:7806370. [PMID: 34306063 DOI: 10.1155/2021/7806370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2021] [Accepted: 06/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic stress is one of the main risk factors of bone loss. While the neurons and neural circuits of the ventromedial hypothalamus (VMH) mediate bone loss induced by chronic stress, the detailed intrinsic mechanisms within the VMH nucleus still need to be explored. Astrocytes in brain regions play important roles in the regulation of metabolism and anxiety-like behavior through interactions with surrounding neurons. However, whether astrocytes in the VMH affect neuronal activity and therefore regulate chronic stress-induced anxiety and bone loss remain elusive. In this study, we found that VMH astrocytes were activated during chronic stress-induced anxiety and bone loss. Pharmacogenetic activation of the Gi and Gq pathways in VMH astrocytes reduced and increased the levels of anxiety and bone loss, respectively. Furthermore, activation of VMH astrocytes by optogenetics induced depolarization in neighboring steroidogenic factor-1 (SF-1) neurons, which was diminished by administration of N-methyl-D-aspartic acid (NMDA) receptor blocker but not by alpha-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid (AMPA) receptor blocker. These results suggest that there may be a functional "glial-neuron microcircuit" in VMH nuclei that mediates anxiety and bone loss induced by chronic stress. This study not only advances our understanding of glial cell function but also provides a potential intervention target for chronic stress-induced anxiety and bone loss therapy.
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43
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Dzyubenko E, Prazuch W, Pillath-Eilers M, Polanska J, Hermann DM. Analysing Intercellular Communication in Astrocytic Networks Using "Astral". Front Cell Neurosci 2021; 15:689268. [PMID: 34211372 PMCID: PMC8239356 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2021.689268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Astrocytic networks are critically involved in regulating the activity of neuronal networks. However, a comprehensive and ready-to-use data analysis tool for investigating functional interactions between the astrocytes is missing. We developed the novel software package named "Astral" to analyse intercellular communication in astrocytic networks based on live-cell calcium imaging. Our method for analysing calcium imaging data does not require the assignment of regions of interest. The package contains two applications: the core processing pipeline for detecting and quantifying Ca++ events, and the auxiliary visualization tool for controlling data quality. Our method allows for the network-wide quantification of Ca++ events and the analysis of their intercellular propagation. In a set of proof-of-concept experiments, we examined Ca++ events in flat monolayers of primary astrocytes and confirmed that inter-astrocytic interactions depend on the permeability of gap junctions and connexin hemichannels. The Astral tool is particularly useful for studying astrocyte-neuronal interactions on the network level. We demonstrate that compared with purely astrocytic cultures, spontaneous generation of Ca++ events in astrocytes that were co-cultivated with neurons was significantly increased. Interestingly, the increased astrocytic Ca++ activity after long-term co-cultivation with neurons was driven by the enhanced formation of gap junctions and connexin hemichannels but was not affected by silencing neuronal activity. Our data indicate the necessity for systematic investigation of astrocyte-neuronal interactions at the network level. For this purpose, the Astral software offers a powerful tool for processing and quantifying calcium imaging data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Egor Dzyubenko
- Department of Neurology and Center for Translational Neuro- and Behavioral Sciences (C-TNBS), University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Wojciech Prazuch
- Department of Data Science and Engineering, Silesian University of Technology Faculty of Automatic Control, Electronics and Computer Science, Gliwice, Poland
| | - Matthias Pillath-Eilers
- Department of Neurology and Center for Translational Neuro- and Behavioral Sciences (C-TNBS), University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Joanna Polanska
- Department of Data Science and Engineering, Silesian University of Technology Faculty of Automatic Control, Electronics and Computer Science, Gliwice, Poland
| | - Dirk M Hermann
- Department of Neurology and Center for Translational Neuro- and Behavioral Sciences (C-TNBS), University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
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44
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Lia A, Henriques VJ, Zonta M, Chiavegato A, Carmignoto G, Gómez-Gonzalo M, Losi G. Calcium Signals in Astrocyte Microdomains, a Decade of Great Advances. Front Cell Neurosci 2021; 15:673433. [PMID: 34163329 PMCID: PMC8216559 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2021.673433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2021] [Accepted: 04/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The glial cells astrocytes have long been recognized as important neuron-supporting elements in brain development, homeostasis, and metabolism. After the discovery that the reciprocal communication between astrocytes and neurons is a fundamental mechanism in the modulation of neuronal synaptic communication, over the last two decades astrocytes became a hot topic in neuroscience research. Crucial to their functional interactions with neurons are the cytosolic Ca2+ elevations that mediate gliotransmission. Large attention has been posed to the so-called Ca2+microdomains, dynamic Ca2+ changes spatially restricted to fine astrocytic processes including perisynaptic astrocytic processes (PAPs). With presynaptic terminals and postsynaptic neuronal membranes, PAPs compose the tripartite synapse. The distinct spatial-temporal features and functional roles of astrocyte microdomain Ca2+ activity remain poorly defined. However, thanks to the development of genetically encoded Ca2+ indicators (GECIs), advanced microscopy techniques, and innovative analytical approaches, Ca2+ transients in astrocyte microdomains were recently studied in unprecedented detail. These events have been observed to occur much more frequently (∼50–100-fold) and dynamically than somatic Ca2+ elevations with mechanisms that likely involve both IP3-dependent and -independent pathways. Further progress aimed to clarify the complex, dynamic machinery responsible for astrocytic Ca2+ activity at microdomains is a crucial step in our understanding of the astrocyte role in brain function and may also reveal astrocytes as novel therapeutic targets for different brain diseases. Here, we review the most recent studies that improve our mechanistic understanding of the essential features of astrocyte Ca2+ microdomains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annamaria Lia
- Neuroscience Institute, National Research Council (IN-CNR), Padua, Italy.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Vanessa Jorge Henriques
- Neuroscience Institute, National Research Council (IN-CNR), Padua, Italy.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Micaela Zonta
- Neuroscience Institute, National Research Council (IN-CNR), Padua, Italy.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Angela Chiavegato
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Giorgio Carmignoto
- Neuroscience Institute, National Research Council (IN-CNR), Padua, Italy.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Marta Gómez-Gonzalo
- Neuroscience Institute, National Research Council (IN-CNR), Padua, Italy.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Gabriele Losi
- Neuroscience Institute, National Research Council (IN-CNR), Padua, Italy.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
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45
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Honoré E, Khlaifia A, Bosson A, Lacaille JC. Hippocampal Somatostatin Interneurons, Long-Term Synaptic Plasticity and Memory. Front Neural Circuits 2021; 15:687558. [PMID: 34149368 PMCID: PMC8206813 DOI: 10.3389/fncir.2021.687558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2021] [Accepted: 04/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
A distinctive feature of the hippocampal structure is the diversity of inhibitory interneurons. These complex inhibitory interconnections largely contribute to the tight modulation of hippocampal circuitry, as well as to the formation and coordination of neuronal assemblies underlying learning and memory. Inhibitory interneurons provide more than a simple transitory inhibition of hippocampal principal cells (PCs). The synaptic plasticity of inhibitory neurons provides long-lasting changes in the hippocampal network and is a key component of memory formation. The dendrite targeting interneurons expressing the peptide somatostatin (SOM) are particularly interesting in this regard because they display unique long-lasting synaptic changes leading to metaplastic regulation of hippocampal networks. In this article, we examine the actions of the neuropeptide SOM on hippocampal cells, synaptic plasticity, learning, and memory. We address the different subtypes of hippocampal SOM interneurons. We describe the long-term synaptic plasticity that takes place at the excitatory synapses of SOM interneurons, its singular induction and expression mechanisms, as well as the consequences of these changes on the hippocampal network, learning, and memory. We also review evidence that astrocytes provide cell-specific dynamic regulation of inhibition of PC dendrites by SOM interneurons. Finally, we cover how, in mouse models of Alzheimer’s disease (AD), dysfunction of plasticity of SOM interneuron excitatory synapses may also contribute to cognitive impairments in brain disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eve Honoré
- Department of Neurosciences, Centre for Interdisciplinary Research on Brain and Learning, Research Group on the Central Nervous System, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Abdessattar Khlaifia
- Department of Neurosciences, Centre for Interdisciplinary Research on Brain and Learning, Research Group on the Central Nervous System, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Anthony Bosson
- Department of Neurosciences, Centre for Interdisciplinary Research on Brain and Learning, Research Group on the Central Nervous System, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Jean-Claude Lacaille
- Department of Neurosciences, Centre for Interdisciplinary Research on Brain and Learning, Research Group on the Central Nervous System, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
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46
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Losi G, Gomez-Gonzalo M, Zonta M, Chiavegato A, Carmignoto G. Cellular and molecular mechanisms of new onset seizure generation. Aging Clin Exp Res 2021; 33:1713-1716. [PMID: 31732960 DOI: 10.1007/s40520-019-01396-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2019] [Accepted: 10/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
New onset epilepsy and seizures are common neurological disorders in aged people, second only to stroke and dementia. They are frequently related to other pathological conditions including stroke, trauma, tumors and neurological diseases whereas in about one-third of cases the origin is unknown. Besides the origin, the cellular and molecular events that suddenly trigger seizures are poorly defined. Using an acute model of seizure generation that better resembles new onset seizures, we studied GABAergic interneurons and astrocytes during seizure generation. We found that seizures are preceded by a GABAergic rhythmic hyperactivity that synchronizes pyramidal neurons by inducing a rebound spiking that favors seizures' onset. Furthermore, the intense activity in GABAergic interneurons evokes Ca2+ elevations in astrocytes that, by releasing glutamate, further excite neuronal network. Elucidating the cellular and molecular events that generate seizures may reveal new targets for treatment of new onset seizures and epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriele Losi
- Neuroscience Institute, National Research Council (CNR), Viale Giuseppe Colombo 3, Padua, Italy.
- Department of Biomedical Science, University of Padua, via Ugo Bassi 58/B, Padua, Italy.
| | - Marta Gomez-Gonzalo
- Neuroscience Institute, National Research Council (CNR), Viale Giuseppe Colombo 3, Padua, Italy
- Department of Biomedical Science, University of Padua, via Ugo Bassi 58/B, Padua, Italy
| | - Micaela Zonta
- Neuroscience Institute, National Research Council (CNR), Viale Giuseppe Colombo 3, Padua, Italy
- Department of Biomedical Science, University of Padua, via Ugo Bassi 58/B, Padua, Italy
| | - Angela Chiavegato
- Department of Biomedical Science, University of Padua, via Ugo Bassi 58/B, Padua, Italy
| | - Giorgio Carmignoto
- Neuroscience Institute, National Research Council (CNR), Viale Giuseppe Colombo 3, Padua, Italy.
- Department of Biomedical Science, University of Padua, via Ugo Bassi 58/B, Padua, Italy.
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47
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Zhang G, Cui Y, Zhang Y, Cao H, Zhou G, Shu H, Yao D, Xia Y, Chen K, Guo D. Computational exploration of dynamic mechanisms of steady state visual evoked potentials at the whole brain level. Neuroimage 2021; 237:118166. [PMID: 34000401 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroimage.2021.118166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2021] [Revised: 05/05/2021] [Accepted: 05/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Periodic visual stimulation can induce stable steady-state visual evoked potentials (SSVEPs) distributed in multiple brain regions and has potential applications in both neural engineering and cognitive neuroscience. However, the underlying dynamic mechanisms of SSVEPs at the whole-brain level are still not completely understood. Here, we addressed this issue by simulating the rich dynamics of SSVEPs with a large-scale brain model designed with constraints of neuroimaging data acquired from the human brain. By eliciting activity of the occipital areas using an external periodic stimulus, our model was capable of replicating both the spatial distributions and response features of SSVEPs that were observed in experiments. In particular, we confirmed that alpha-band (8-12 Hz) stimulation could evoke stronger SSVEP responses; this frequency sensitivity was due to nonlinear entrainment and resonance, and could be modulated by endogenous factors in the brain. Interestingly, the stimulus-evoked brain networks also exhibited significant superiority in topological properties near this frequency-sensitivity range, and stronger SSVEP responses were demonstrated to be supported by more efficient functional connectivity at the neural activity level. These findings not only provide insights into the mechanistic understanding of SSVEPs at the whole-brain level but also indicate a bright future for large-scale brain modeling in characterizing the complicated dynamics and functions of the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ge Zhang
- The Clinical Hospital of Chengdu Brain Science Institute, MOE Key Lab for NeuroInformation, Center for Information in Medicine, School of Life Science and Technology, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 611731, China; Research Unit of NeuroInformation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, 2019RU035, Chengdu, China
| | - Yan Cui
- The Clinical Hospital of Chengdu Brain Science Institute, MOE Key Lab for NeuroInformation, Center for Information in Medicine, School of Life Science and Technology, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 611731, China; Research Unit of NeuroInformation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, 2019RU035, Chengdu, China
| | - Yangsong Zhang
- School of Computer Science and Technology, Southwest University of Science and Technology, Mianyang 621010, China
| | - Hefei Cao
- The Clinical Hospital of Chengdu Brain Science Institute, MOE Key Lab for NeuroInformation, Center for Information in Medicine, School of Life Science and Technology, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 611731, China; Research Unit of NeuroInformation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, 2019RU035, Chengdu, China
| | - Guanyu Zhou
- The Clinical Hospital of Chengdu Brain Science Institute, MOE Key Lab for NeuroInformation, Center for Information in Medicine, School of Life Science and Technology, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 611731, China; Research Unit of NeuroInformation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, 2019RU035, Chengdu, China
| | - Haifeng Shu
- Department of Neurosurgery, The General Hospital of Western Theater Command, Chengdu 610083, China
| | - Dezhong Yao
- The Clinical Hospital of Chengdu Brain Science Institute, MOE Key Lab for NeuroInformation, Center for Information in Medicine, School of Life Science and Technology, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 611731, China; Research Unit of NeuroInformation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, 2019RU035, Chengdu, China; School of Electrical Engineering, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China.
| | - Yang Xia
- The Clinical Hospital of Chengdu Brain Science Institute, MOE Key Lab for NeuroInformation, Center for Information in Medicine, School of Life Science and Technology, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 611731, China; Research Unit of NeuroInformation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, 2019RU035, Chengdu, China
| | - Ke Chen
- The Clinical Hospital of Chengdu Brain Science Institute, MOE Key Lab for NeuroInformation, Center for Information in Medicine, School of Life Science and Technology, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 611731, China; Research Unit of NeuroInformation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, 2019RU035, Chengdu, China
| | - Daqing Guo
- The Clinical Hospital of Chengdu Brain Science Institute, MOE Key Lab for NeuroInformation, Center for Information in Medicine, School of Life Science and Technology, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 611731, China; Research Unit of NeuroInformation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, 2019RU035, Chengdu, China.
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48
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Noriega-Prieto JA, Araque A. Sensing and Regulating Synaptic Activity by Astrocytes at Tripartite Synapse. Neurochem Res 2021. [PMID: 33837868 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-021-03317-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2020] [Revised: 03/27/2021] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Astrocytes are recognized as more important cells than historically thought in synaptic function through the reciprocal exchange of signaling with the neuronal synaptic elements. The idea that astrocytes are active elements in synaptic physiology is conceptualized in the Tripartite Synapse concept. This review article presents and discusses recent representative examples that highlight the heterogeneity of signaling in tripartite synapse function and its consequences on neural network function and animal behavior.
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Vaidyanathan TV, Collard M, Yokoyama S, Reitman ME, Poskanzer KE. Cortical astrocytes independently regulate sleep depth and duration via separate GPCR pathways. eLife 2021; 10:63329. [PMID: 33729913 PMCID: PMC7968927 DOI: 10.7554/elife.63329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2020] [Accepted: 02/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep, characterized by slow-wave electrophysiological activity, underlies several critical functions, including learning and memory. However, NREM sleep is heterogeneous, varying in duration, depth, and spatially across the cortex. While these NREM sleep features are thought to be largely independently regulated, there is also evidence that they are mechanistically coupled. To investigate how cortical NREM sleep features are controlled, we examined the astrocytic network, comprising a cortex-wide syncytium that influences population-level neuronal activity. We quantified endogenous astrocyte activity in mice over natural sleep and wake, then manipulated specific astrocytic G-protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) signaling pathways in vivo. We find that astrocytic Gi- and Gq-coupled GPCR signaling separately control NREM sleep depth and duration, respectively, and that astrocytic signaling causes differential changes in local and remote cortex. These data support a model in which the cortical astrocyte network serves as a hub for regulating distinct NREM sleep features. Sleep has many roles, from strengthening new memories to regulating mood and appetite. While we might instinctively think of sleep as a uniform state of reduced brain activity, the reality is more complex. First, over the course of the night, we cycle between a number of different sleep stages, which reflect different levels of sleep depth. Second, the amount of sleep depth is not necessarily even across the brain but can vary between regions. These sleep stages consist of either rapid eye movement (REM) sleep or non-REM (NREM) sleep. REM sleep is when most dreaming occurs, whereas NREM sleep is particularly important for learning and memory and can vary in duration and depth. During NREM sleep, large groups of neurons synchronize their firing to create rhythmic waves of activity known as slow waves. The more synchronous the activity, the deeper the sleep. Vaidyanathan et al. now show that brain cells called astrocytes help regulate NREM sleep. Astrocytes are not neurons but belong to a group of specialized cells called glia. They are the largest glia cell type in the brain and display an array of proteins on their surfaces called G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). These enable them to sense sleep-wake signals from other parts of the brain and to generate their own signals. In fact, each astrocyte can communicate with thousands of neurons at once. They are therefore well-poised to coordinate brain activity during NREM sleep. Using innovative tools, Vaidyanathan et al. visualized astrocyte activity in mice as the animals woke up or fell asleep. The results showed that astrocytes change their activity just before each sleep–wake transition. They also revealed that astrocytes control both the depth and duration of NREM sleep via two different types of GPCR signals. Increasing one of these signals (Gi-GPCR) made the mice sleep more deeply but did not change sleep duration. Decreasing the other (Gq-GPCR) made the mice sleep for longer but did not affect sleep depth. Sleep problems affect many people at some point in their lives, and often co-exist with other conditions such as mental health disorders. Understanding how the brain regulates different features of sleep could help us develop better – and perhaps more specific – treatments for sleep disorders. The current study suggests that manipulating GPCRs on astrocytes might increase sleep depth, for example. But before work to test this idea can begin, we must first determine whether findings from sleeping mice also apply to people.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trisha V Vaidyanathan
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, United States.,Department of Biochemistry & Biophysics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, United States
| | - Max Collard
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, United States
| | - Sae Yokoyama
- Department of Biochemistry & Biophysics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, United States
| | - Michael E Reitman
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, United States.,Department of Biochemistry & Biophysics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, United States
| | - Kira E Poskanzer
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, United States.,Department of Biochemistry & Biophysics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, United States.,Kavli Institute for Fundamental Neuroscience, San Francisco, United States
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50
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Pięt M, Zając A, Paduch R, Jaszek M, Frant M, Stefaniuk D, Matuszewska A, Grzywnowicz K. Chemopreventive activity of bioactive fungal fractions isolated from milk-supplemented cultures of Cerrena unicolor and Pycnoporus sanguineus on colon cancer cells. 3 Biotech 2021; 11:5. [PMID: 33442504 DOI: 10.1007/s13205-020-02591-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2019] [Accepted: 12/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The biochemical properties and anti-tumorigenic activity of Cerrena unicolor (CU) and Pycnoporus sanguineus (PS) towards colon cancer cells and the effect of supplementation of the fungal culture medium with cow milk on these activities were examined. CU1-II and PS4-II exhibited anticancer properties through various mechanisms. The extracts at the 200 µg/mL concentration significantly decreased the viability of HT-29 and SW948 cells. They also exhibited pro-apoptotic properties towards the cancer cell lines (HT-29, LS 180, and SW948). Furthermore, culturing the studied fungi on milk-supplemented media may improve the pro-health properties of both milk and mushrooms. The extracts had a higher concentration of proteins, lower levels of free amino acids, and higher content of phenolic compounds than milk. They also exerted a free radical scavenging effect, which may be connected with the high activity of catalase and superoxide dismutase. The tested extracts exhibited anticancer activity: C. unicolor grown on the medium without milk and P. sanguineus grown on the medium with milk. The CU1-II and PS4-II extracts exhibited the strongest anticancer properties; however, PS4-II exerted a milder effect on normal CCD 841 CoTr cells than CU1-II. CU3-II exerted the mildest effect among all extracts on both normal and cancer cells.
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