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Wallace JL, Pollen AA. Human neuronal maturation comes of age: cellular mechanisms and species differences. Nat Rev Neurosci 2024; 25:7-29. [PMID: 37996703 DOI: 10.1038/s41583-023-00760-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023]
Abstract
The delayed and prolonged postmitotic maturation of human neurons, compared with neurons from other species, may contribute to human-specific cognitive abilities and neurological disorders. Here we review the mechanisms of neuronal maturation, applying lessons from model systems to understand the specific features of protracted human cortical maturation and species differences. We cover cell-intrinsic features of neuronal maturation, including transcriptional, epigenetic and metabolic mechanisms, as well as cell-extrinsic features, including the roles of activity and synapses, the actions of glial cells and the contribution of the extracellular matrix. We discuss evidence for species differences in biochemical reaction rates, the proposed existence of an epigenetic maturation clock and the contributions of both general and modular mechanisms to species-specific maturation timing. Finally, we suggest approaches to measure, improve and accelerate the maturation of human neurons in culture, examine crosstalk and interactions among these different aspects of maturation and propose conceptual models to guide future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenelle L Wallace
- Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
- Department of Neurology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
| | - Alex A Pollen
- Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
- Department of Neurology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
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2
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Sahlgren Bendtsen KM, Hall VJ. The Breakthroughs and Caveats of Using Human Pluripotent Stem Cells in Modeling Alzheimer's Disease. Cells 2023; 12:cells12030420. [PMID: 36766763 PMCID: PMC9913971 DOI: 10.3390/cells12030420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Revised: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Modeling Alzheimer's disease (AD) using human-induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) is a field now spanning 15 years. Developments in the field have shown a shift in using simple 2D cortical neuron models to more advanced tri-cultures and 3D cerebral organoids that recapitulate more features of the disease. This is largely due to development and optimization of new cell protocols. In this review, we highlight recent major breakthroughs in the AD field and the implications this has in modeling AD using iPSCs (AD-iPSCs). To date, AD-iPSCs have been largely used to recapitulate and study impaired amyloid precursor protein (APP) processing and tau phosphorylation in both familial and sporadic AD. AD-iPSCs have also been studied for varying neuronal and glial dysfunctions. Moreover, they have been useful for discovering new molecular mechanisms, such as identifying proteins that bridge APP processing with tau phosphorylation and for identifying molecular pathways that bridge APP processing dysfunction with impaired cholesterol biosynthesis. Perhaps the greatest use of AD-iPSCs has been in discovering compounds via drug screening, that reduce amyloid beta (Aβ) in neurons, such as the anti-inflammatory compound, cromolyn, and antiparasitic drugs, avermectins. In addition, high content screening using AD-iPSCs has led to the identification of statins that can reduce levels of phosphorylated tau (p-Tau) in neurons. Some of these compounds have made it through to testing in human clinical trials. Improvements in omic technologies including single cell RNA sequencing and proteomics as well as advances in production of iPSC-cerebral organoids and tri-cultures is likely to result in the further discovery of new drugs and treatments for AD. Some caveats remain in the field, including, long experimental conditions to create mature neurons, high costs of media that limit research capabilities, and a lack of reproducibility using current iPSC-cerebral organoid protocols. Despite these current limitations, AD-iPSCs remain an excellent cellular model for studying AD mechanisms and for drug discovery.
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3
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Kong F, Zhang Y, Wang T, Zhong L, Feng C, Wu Y. Repeated sevoflurane exposures inhibit neurogenesis by inducing the upregulation of glutamate transporter 1 in astrocytes. Eur J Neurosci 2023; 57:217-232. [PMID: 36440503 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.15874] [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: 07/10/2022] [Revised: 11/02/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Sevoflurane is a widely used general anaesthetic in paediatric patients. Although repeated sevoflurane exposure is known to cause neurodevelopmental disorders in children, the mechanism of this neurotoxicity remains largely unknown. Herein, we investigated the role of glutamate transporter 1 (GLT1) in sevoflurane-induced decreased neurogenesis. Neonatal rat pups (postnatal Day 7, PN7) were exposed to 3% sevoflurane for 2 h for three consecutive days. Neuron loss and decreased neurogenesis have been observed in the neonatal rat brain, along with decreased number of astrocytes. Apoptotic astrocytes were observed after repeated sevoflurane exposure in vitro, resulting in decreased levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). Calcium overload was observed in astrocytes after repeated sevoflurane exposure, in addition to upregulation of GLT1. Inhibition of GLT1 activity ameliorates repeated sevoflurane exposure-induced cognitive deficits in adult rats. Mechanically, the upregulation of GLT1 was caused by the activation of mRNA translation. RNA-sequencing analysis further confirmed that translation-related genes were activated by repeated sevoflurane exposure. These results indicate that cognitive deficits caused by repeated sevoflurane exposure during PN7-9 are triggered decreased neurogenesis. The proposed underlying mechanism involves upregulation of apoptosis in astrocytes induced by GLT1; therefore, we propose GLT1 as a potential pharmacological target for brain injury in paediatric practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fanli Kong
- Department of Anesthesiology, Wuhan Children's Hospital (Wuhan Maternal and Child Healthcare Hospital), Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yao Zhang
- Endocrine Department of Liyuan Hospital; Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education of China for Neurological Disorders, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Tingting Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Wuhan Children's Hospital (Wuhan Maternal and Child Healthcare Hospital), Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Liang Zhong
- Department of Anesthesiology, Wuhan Children's Hospital (Wuhan Maternal and Child Healthcare Hospital), Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Chun Feng
- Department of Anesthesiology, Wuhan Children's Hospital (Wuhan Maternal and Child Healthcare Hospital), Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yuanyuan Wu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Wuhan Children's Hospital (Wuhan Maternal and Child Healthcare Hospital), Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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4
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Uchino K, Tanaka Y, Kawaguchi S, Kubota K, Watanabe T, Katsurabayashi S, Hirose S, Iwasaki K. Establishment of autaptic culture with human-induced pluripotent stem cell-derived astrocytes. iScience 2022; 25:104762. [PMID: 35942096 PMCID: PMC9356095 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2022.104762] [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] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2022] [Revised: 05/25/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Although astrocytes are involved in the pathogenesis of CNS diseases, how they induce synaptic abnormalities is unclear. Currently, in vitro pathological astrocyte cultures or animal models do not reproduce human disease phenotypes accurately. Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) are replacing animal models in pathological studies. We developed an autaptic culture (AC) system containing single neuron cultures grown on microislands of astrocytes. AC with human iPSC-derived astrocytes (HiA) was established. We evaluated the effect of astrocytes on the synaptic functions of human-derived neurons. We found a significantly higher Na+ current amplitude, membrane capacitance, and number of synapses, as well as longer dendrites, in HiAACs compared with neuron monocultures. Furthermore, HiAs were involved in the formation and maturation of functional synapses that exhibited excitatory postsynaptic currents. This system can facilitate the study of CNS diseases and advance the development of drugs targeting glial cells. We developed an autaptic culture with human iPSCs-derived astrocytes Neurons in HiAACs developed after culture and formed functional synapses EPSC and mEPSC were recorded showing HiAs promoted synapse formation/maturation Autaptic cultures can be used to analyze synaptic activity and human CNS disease
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Affiliation(s)
- Kouya Uchino
- Department of Neuropharmacology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Fukuoka University, 8-19-1 Nanakuma, Jonan-ku, Fukuoka 814-0180, Japan
| | - Yasuyoshi Tanaka
- Department of Advanced Pharmacology, Daiichi University of Pharmacy, 22-1 Tamagawa-machi, Minami-ku, Fukuoka 815-8511, Japan
- iONtarget, Co., Inc., 1-3-70-5805 Momochihama, Sawara-ku, Fukuoka 814-0006, Japan
- Research Institute for the Molecular Pathogeneses of Epilepsy, Fukuoka University, 7-45-1 Nanakuma, Jonan-ku, Fukuoka 814-0180, Japan
| | - Sayaka Kawaguchi
- Department of Neuropharmacology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Fukuoka University, 8-19-1 Nanakuma, Jonan-ku, Fukuoka 814-0180, Japan
| | - Kaori Kubota
- Department of Neuropharmacology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Fukuoka University, 8-19-1 Nanakuma, Jonan-ku, Fukuoka 814-0180, Japan
| | - Takuya Watanabe
- Department of Neuropharmacology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Fukuoka University, 8-19-1 Nanakuma, Jonan-ku, Fukuoka 814-0180, Japan
| | - Shutaro Katsurabayashi
- Department of Neuropharmacology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Fukuoka University, 8-19-1 Nanakuma, Jonan-ku, Fukuoka 814-0180, Japan
- Research Institute for the Molecular Pathogeneses of Epilepsy, Fukuoka University, 7-45-1 Nanakuma, Jonan-ku, Fukuoka 814-0180, Japan
- Corresponding author
| | - Shinichi Hirose
- iONtarget, Co., Inc., 1-3-70-5805 Momochihama, Sawara-ku, Fukuoka 814-0006, Japan
- Research Institute for the Molecular Pathogeneses of Epilepsy, Fukuoka University, 7-45-1 Nanakuma, Jonan-ku, Fukuoka 814-0180, Japan
- General Medical Research Center, School of Medicine, Fukuoka University, 7-45-1 Nanakuma, Jonan-ku, Fukuoka 814-0180, Japan
| | - Katsunori Iwasaki
- Department of Neuropharmacology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Fukuoka University, 8-19-1 Nanakuma, Jonan-ku, Fukuoka 814-0180, Japan
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5
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Allen M, Huang BS, Notaras MJ, Lodhi A, Barrio-Alonso E, Lituma PJ, Wolujewicz P, Witztum J, Longo F, Chen M, Greening DW, Klann E, Ross ME, Liston C, Colak D. Astrocytes derived from ASD individuals alter behavior and destabilize neuronal activity through aberrant Ca 2+ signaling. Mol Psychiatry 2022; 27:2470-2484. [PMID: 35365802 PMCID: PMC9135629 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-022-01486-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2021] [Revised: 02/01/2022] [Accepted: 02/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
The cellular mechanisms of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are poorly understood. Cumulative evidence suggests that abnormal synapse function underlies many features of this disease. Astrocytes regulate several key neuronal processes, including the formation of synapses and the modulation of synaptic plasticity. Astrocyte abnormalities have also been identified in the postmortem brain tissue of ASD individuals. However, it remains unclear whether astrocyte pathology plays a mechanistic role in ASD, as opposed to a compensatory response. To address this, we combined stem cell culturing with transplantation techniques to determine disease-specific properties inherent to ASD astrocytes. We demonstrate that ASD astrocytes induce repetitive behavior as well as impair memory and long-term potentiation when transplanted into the healthy mouse brain. These in vivo phenotypes were accompanied by reduced neuronal network activity and spine density caused by ASD astrocytes in hippocampal neurons in vitro. Transplanted ASD astrocytes also exhibit exaggerated Ca2+ fluctuations in chimeric brains. Genetic modulation of evoked Ca2+ responses in ASD astrocytes modulates behavior and neuronal activity deficits. Thus, this study determines that astrocytes derived from ASD iPSCs are sufficient to induce repetitive behavior as well as cognitive deficit, suggesting a previously unrecognized primary role for astrocytes in ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan Allen
- Center for Neurogenetics, Feil Family Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, Cornell University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Ben S Huang
- Center for Neurogenetics, Feil Family Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, Cornell University, New York, NY, USA.,Department of Psychiatry, Weill Cornell Medicine, Cornell University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Michael J Notaras
- Center for Neurogenetics, Feil Family Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, Cornell University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Aiman Lodhi
- Center for Neurogenetics, Feil Family Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, Cornell University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Estibaliz Barrio-Alonso
- Center for Neurogenetics, Feil Family Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, Cornell University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Pablo J Lituma
- Center for Neurogenetics, Feil Family Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, Cornell University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Paul Wolujewicz
- Center for Neurogenetics, Feil Family Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, Cornell University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jonathan Witztum
- Center for Neurogenetics, Feil Family Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, Cornell University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Francesco Longo
- Center for Neural Science, New York University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Maoshan Chen
- Molecular Proteomics, Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Baker Department of Cardiometabolic Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Baker Department of Cardiovascular Research, Translation and Implementation, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - David W Greening
- Molecular Proteomics, Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Baker Department of Cardiometabolic Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Baker Department of Cardiovascular Research, Translation and Implementation, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Eric Klann
- Center for Neural Science, New York University, New York, NY, USA
| | - M Elizabeth Ross
- Center for Neurogenetics, Feil Family Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, Cornell University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Conor Liston
- Center for Neurogenetics, Feil Family Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, Cornell University, New York, NY, USA.,Department of Psychiatry, Weill Cornell Medicine, Cornell University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Dilek Colak
- Center for Neurogenetics, Feil Family Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medicine, Cornell University, New York, NY, USA. .,Gale and Ira Drukier Institute for Children's Health, Weill Cornell Medicine, Cornell University, New York, NY, USA.
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6
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Bigarreau J, Rouach N, Perrier AL, Mouthon F, Charvériat M. Modeling and Targeting Neuroglial Interactions with Human Pluripotent Stem Cell Models. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:1684. [PMID: 35163606 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23031684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2022] [Revised: 01/26/2022] [Accepted: 01/30/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Generation of relevant and robust models for neurological disorders is of main importance for both target identification and drug discovery. The non-cell autonomous effects of glial cells on neurons have been described in a broad range of neurodegenerative and neurodevelopmental disorders, pointing to neuroglial interactions as novel alternative targets for therapeutics development. Interestingly, the recent breakthrough discovery of human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) has opened a new road for studying neurological and neurodevelopmental disorders “in a dish”. Here, we provide an overview of the generation and modeling of both neuronal and glial cells from human iPSCs and a brief synthesis of recent work investigating neuroglial interactions using hiPSCs in a pathophysiological context.
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7
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Abstract
Astrocytes are the key component of the central nervous system (CNS), serving as pivotal regulators of neuronal synapse formation and maturation through their ability to dynamically and bidirectionally communicate with synapses throughout life. In the past 20 years, numerous astrocyte-derived molecules promoting synaptogenesis have been discovered. However, our understanding of the cell biological basis underlying intra-neuron processes and astrocyte-mediated synaptogenesis is still in its infancy. Here, we provide a comprehensive overview of the various ways astrocytes talk to neurons, and highlight astrocytes’ heterogeneity that allow them to displays regional-specific capabilities in boosting synaptogenesis. Finally, we conclude with promises and future directions on how organoids generated from human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) effectively address the signaling pathways astrocytes employ in synaptic development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lili Shan
- Guangzhou Laboratory, Guangzhou, China.,Bioland Laboratory (Guangzhou Regenerative Medicine and Health Guangdong Laboratory), Guangzhou, China
| | - Tongran Zhang
- Guangzhou Laboratory, Guangzhou, China.,Bioland Laboratory (Guangzhou Regenerative Medicine and Health Guangdong Laboratory), Guangzhou, China
| | - Kevin Fan
- Department of Radiology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States.,Department of Medical Physics, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States
| | - Weibo Cai
- Department of Radiology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States.,Department of Medical Physics, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States
| | - Huisheng Liu
- Guangzhou Laboratory, Guangzhou, China.,Bioland Laboratory (Guangzhou Regenerative Medicine and Health Guangdong Laboratory), Guangzhou, China
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Antonov SA, Novosadova EV. Current State-of-the-Art and Unresolved Problems in Using Human Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell-Derived Dopamine Neurons for Parkinson's Disease Drug Development. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:3381. [PMID: 33806103 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22073381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2021] [Revised: 03/15/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Human induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells have the potential to give rise to a new era in Parkinson's disease (PD) research. As a unique source of midbrain dopaminergic (DA) neurons, iPS cells provide unparalleled capabilities for investigating the pathogenesis of PD, the development of novel anti-parkinsonian drugs, and personalized therapy design. Significant progress in developmental biology of midbrain DA neurons laid the foundation for their efficient derivation from iPS cells. The introduction of 3D culture methods to mimic the brain microenvironment further expanded the vast opportunities of iPS cell-based research of the neurodegenerative diseases. However, while the benefits for basic and applied studies provided by iPS cells receive widespread coverage in the current literature, the drawbacks of this model in its current state, and in particular, the aspects of differentiation protocols requiring further refinement are commonly overlooked. This review summarizes the recent data on general and subtype-specific features of midbrain DA neurons and their development. Here, we review the current protocols for derivation of DA neurons from human iPS cells and outline their general weak spots. The associated gaps in the contemporary knowledge are considered and the possible directions for future research that may assist in improving the differentiation conditions and increase the efficiency of using iPS cell-derived neurons for PD drug development are discussed.
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Zhang X, Li Z, Liu Y, Gai Z. Great Expectations: Induced pluripotent stem cell technologies in neurodevelopmental impairments. Int J Med Sci 2021; 18:459-473. [PMID: 33390815 PMCID: PMC7757149 DOI: 10.7150/ijms.51842] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2020] [Accepted: 11/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Somatic cells such as skin fibroblasts, umbilical cord blood, peripheral blood, urinary epithelial cells, etc., are transformed into induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) by reprogramming technology, a milestone in the stem-cell research field. IPSCs are similar to embryonic stem cells (ESCs), exhibiting the potential to differentiate into various somatic cells. Still, the former avoid problems of immune rejection and medical ethics in the study of ESCs and clinical trials. Neurodevelopmental disorders are chronic developmental brain dysfunctions that affect cognition, exercise, social adaptability, behavior, etc. Due to various inherited or acquired causes, they seriously affect the physical and psychological health of infants and children. These include generalized stunting / mental disability (GDD/ID), Epilepsy, autism spectrum disease (ASD), and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Most neurodevelopmental disorders are challenging to cure. Establishing a neurodevelopmental disorder system model is essential for researching and treating neurodevelopmental disorders. At this stage, the scarcity of samples is a bigger problem for studying neurological diseases based on the donor, ethics, etc. Some iPSCs are reprogrammed from somatic cells that carry disease-causing mutations. They differentiate into nerve cells by induction, which has the original characteristics of diseases. Disease-specific iPSCs are used to study the mechanism and pathogenesis of neurodevelopmental disorders. The process provided samples and the impetus for developing drugs and developing treatment plans for neurodevelopmental disorders. Here, this article mainly introduced the development of iPSCs, the currently established iPSCs disease models, and artificial organoids related to neurodevelopmental impairments. This technology will promote our understanding of neurodevelopmental impairments and bring great expectations to children with neurological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue Zhang
- Pediatric Research Institute, Qilu Children's Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Ji'nan 250022, China.,Jinan Pediatric Research Institute, Jinan Children's Hospital, Ji'nan 250022, China.,Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Children's Medical Center, The Second Hospital of Shandong University, Ji'nan 250033, China
| | - Zilong Li
- Pediatric Research Institute, Qilu Children's Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Ji'nan 250022, China.,Jinan Pediatric Research Institute, Jinan Children's Hospital, Ji'nan 250022, China
| | - Yi Liu
- Pediatric Research Institute, Qilu Children's Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Ji'nan 250022, China.,Jinan Pediatric Research Institute, Jinan Children's Hospital, Ji'nan 250022, China
| | - Zhongtao Gai
- Pediatric Research Institute, Qilu Children's Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Ji'nan 250022, China.,Jinan Pediatric Research Institute, Jinan Children's Hospital, Ji'nan 250022, China
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10
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Nieves MD, Furmanski O, Doughty ML. Host sex and transplanted human induced pluripotent stem cell phenotype interact to influence sensorimotor recovery in a mouse model of cortical contusion injury. Brain Res 2020; 1748:147120. [PMID: 32926852 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2020.147120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [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: 07/10/2020] [Revised: 09/02/2020] [Accepted: 09/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a substantial cause of disability and death worldwide. Primary head trauma triggers chronic secondary injury mechanisms in the brain that are a focus of therapeutic efforts to treat TBI. Currently, there is no successful clinical strategy to repair brain injury. Cell transplantation therapies have demonstrated promise in attenuating secondary injury mechanisms of neuronal death and dysfunction in animal models of brain injury. In this study, we used a unilateral cortical contusion injury (CCI) model of sensorimotor brain injury to examine the effects of human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC) transplantation on pathology in male and female adult mice. We determined transplanted hiPSC-derived neural stem cells (NSCs) and neuroblasts but not astrocytes best tolerate the injured host environment. Surviving NSC and neuroblast cells were clustered at the site of injection within the deep layers of the cortex and underlying corpus callosum. Cell grafts extended neuritic processes that crossed the midline into the contralateral corpus callosum or continued laterally within the external capsule to enter the ipsilateral entorhinal cortex. To determine the effect of transplantation on neuropathology, we performed sensorimotor behavior testing and stereological estimation of host neurons, astrocytes, and microglia within the contused cortex. These measures did not reveal a consistent effect of transplantation on recovery post-injury. Rather the positive and negative effects of cell transplantation were dependent on the host sex, highlighting the importance of developing patient-specific approaches to treat TBI. Our study underscores the complex interactions of sex, neuroimmune responses and cell therapy in a common experimental model of TBI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael D Nieves
- Center for Neuroscience and Regenerative Medicine, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, United States; Department of Anatomy, Physiology & Genetics, F.E. Hébert School of Medicine, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, United States; Graduate Program in Neuroscience, F.E. Hébert School of Medicine, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Orion Furmanski
- Center for Neuroscience and Regenerative Medicine, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, United States; Department of Anatomy, Physiology & Genetics, F.E. Hébert School of Medicine, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Martin L Doughty
- Center for Neuroscience and Regenerative Medicine, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, United States; Department of Anatomy, Physiology & Genetics, F.E. Hébert School of Medicine, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, United States; Graduate Program in Neuroscience, F.E. Hébert School of Medicine, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, United States.
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11
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Hedegaard A, Monzón-Sandoval J, Newey SE, Whiteley ES, Webber C, Akerman CJ. Pro-maturational Effects of Human iPSC-Derived Cortical Astrocytes upon iPSC-Derived Cortical Neurons. Stem Cell Reports 2020; 15:38-51. [PMID: 32502466 DOI: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2020.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2020] [Revised: 05/04/2020] [Accepted: 05/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Astrocytes influence neuronal maturation and function by providing trophic support, regulating the extracellular environment, and modulating signaling at synapses. The emergence of induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) technology offers a human system with which to validate and re-evaluate insights from animal studies. Here, we set out to examine interactions between human astrocytes and neurons derived from a common cortical progenitor pool, thereby recapitulating aspects of in vivo cortical development. We show that the cortical iPSC-derived astrocytes exhibit many of the molecular and functional hallmarks of astrocytes. Furthermore, optogenetic and electrophysiological co-culture experiments reveal that the iPSC-astrocytes can actively modulate ongoing synaptic transmission and exert pro-maturational effects upon developing networks of iPSC-derived cortical neurons. Finally, transcriptomic analyses implicate synapse-associated extracellular signaling in the astrocytes' pro-maturational effects upon the iPSC-derived neurons. This work helps lay the foundation for future investigations into astrocyte-to-neuron interactions in human health and disease. Human astrocytes and neurons are generated from a common cortical progenitor pool Astrocyte-neuron signaling is demonstrated with neurotransmitters and optogenetics Astrocyte co-culture promotes cortical neuron and synaptic network maturation Transcriptomics reveal extracellular astrocytic proteins that interact at synapses
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12
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Griffin K, Bejoy J, Song L, Hua T, Marzano M, Jeske R, Sang QXA, Li Y. Human Stem Cell-derived Aggregates of Forebrain Astroglia Respond to Amyloid Beta Oligomers. Tissue Eng Part A 2019; 26:527-542. [PMID: 31696783 DOI: 10.1089/ten.tea.2019.0227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Astrocytes are vital components in neuronal circuitry and there is increasing evidence linking the dysfunction of these cells to a number of central nervous system diseases. Studying the role of these cells in human brain function in the past has been difficult due to limited access to the human brain. In this study, human induced pluripotent stem cells were differentiated into astrospheres using a hybrid plating method, with or without dual SMAD inhibition. The derived cells were assessed for astrocytic markers, brain regional identity, phagocytosis, calcium-transient signaling, reactive oxygen species production, and immune response. Neural degeneration was modeled by stimulation with amyloid-β (Aβ) 42 oligomers. Finally, co-culture was performed for the derived astrospheres with isogenic neurospheres. Results indicate that the derived astroglial cells express astrocyte markers with forebrain dorsal cortical identity, secrete extracellular matrix, and are capable of phagocytosing iron oxide particles and responding to Aβ42 stimulation (higher oxidative stress, higher TNF-α, and IL-6 expression). RNA-sequencing results reveal the distinct transcriptome of the derived cells responding to Aβ42 stimulation for astrocyte markers, chemokines, and brain regional identity. Co-culture experiments show the synaptic activities of neurons and the enhanced neural protection ability of the astroglial cells. This study provides knowledge about the roles of brain astroglial cells, heterotypic cell-cell interactions, and the formation of engineered neuronal synapses in vitro. The implications lie in neurological disease modeling, drug screening, and studying progression of neural degeneration and the role of stem cell microenvironment. Impact Statement Human pluripotent stem cell-derived astrocytes are a powerful tool for disease modeling and drug screening. However, the properties regarding brain regional identity and the immune response to neural degeneration stimulus have not been well characterized. Results of this study indicate that the derived astroglial cells express astrocyte markers with forebrain dorsal cortical identity, secrete extracellular matrix (ECM), and are capable of phagocytosing iron oxide particles and responding to amyloid-β oligomers, showing the distinct transcriptome in astrocyte markers, chemokines, and brain regional identity. This study provides knowledge about the roles of brain astroglial cells, heterotypic cell-cell interactions, and engineering neural tissues in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyle Griffin
- Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, FAMU-FSU College of Engineering, Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida, USA
| | - Julie Bejoy
- Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, FAMU-FSU College of Engineering, Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida, USA
| | - Liqing Song
- Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, FAMU-FSU College of Engineering, Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida, USA
| | - Thien Hua
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida, USA
| | - Mark Marzano
- Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, FAMU-FSU College of Engineering, Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida, USA
| | - Richard Jeske
- Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, FAMU-FSU College of Engineering, Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida, USA
| | - Qing-Xiang Amy Sang
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida, USA.,Institute of Molecular Biophysics, Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida, USA
| | - Yan Li
- Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, FAMU-FSU College of Engineering, Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida, USA.,Institute of Molecular Biophysics, Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida, USA
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13
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Taga A, Dastgheyb R, Habela C, Joseph J, Richard JP, Gross SK, Lauria G, Lee G, Haughey N, Maragakis NJ. Role of Human-Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell-Derived Spinal Cord Astrocytes in the Functional Maturation of Motor Neurons in a Multielectrode Array System. Stem Cells Transl Med 2019; 8:1272-1285. [PMID: 31631575 PMCID: PMC6877769 DOI: 10.1002/sctm.19-0147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [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: 05/16/2019] [Accepted: 08/30/2019] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The ability to generate human‐induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC)‐derived neural cells displaying region‐specific phenotypes is of particular interest for modeling central nervous system biology in vitro. We describe a unique method by which spinal cord hiPSC‐derived astrocytes (hiPSC‐A) are cultured with spinal cord hiPSC‐derived motor neurons (hiPSC‐MN) in a multielectrode array (MEA) system to record electrophysiological activity over time. We show that hiPSC‐A enhance hiPSC‐MN electrophysiological maturation in a time‐dependent fashion. The sequence of plating, density, and age in which hiPSC‐A are cocultured with MN, but not their respective hiPSC line origin, are factors that influence neuronal electrophysiology. When compared to coculture with mouse primary spinal cord astrocytes, we observe an earlier and more robust electrophysiological maturation in the fully human cultures, suggesting that the human origin is relevant to the recapitulation of astrocyte/motor neuron crosstalk. Finally, we test pharmacological compounds on our MEA platform and observe changes in electrophysiological activity, which confirm hiPSC‐MN maturation. These findings are supported by immunocytochemistry and real‐time PCR studies in parallel cultures demonstrating human astrocyte mediated changes in the structural maturation and protein expression profiles of the neurons. Interestingly, this relationship is reciprocal and coculture with neurons influences astrocyte maturation as well. Taken together, these data indicate that in a human in vitro spinal cord culture system, astrocytes support hiPSC‐MN maturation in a time‐dependent and species‐specific manner and suggest a closer approximation of in vivo conditions. stem cells translational medicine2019;8:1272&1285 We describe a fully human, spinal cord‐specific, coculture platform with human‐induced pluripotent stem cell‐derived motor neurons and astrocytes for multielectrode array recording. We show that human‐induced pluripotent stem cell‐derived motor neurons/human‐induced pluripotent stem cell‐derived astrocytes bidirectional morphological and molecular maturation is reflected by electrophysiological recordings with multielectrode array recording.![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Arens Taga
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Raha Dastgheyb
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Christa Habela
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Jessica Joseph
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | | | - Sarah K Gross
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Giuseppe Lauria
- Fondazione I.R.C.C.S. Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan, Italy.,Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences "Luigi Sacco", University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Gabsang Lee
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.,Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Norman Haughey
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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14
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Zhou Q, Viollet C, Efthymiou A, Khayrullina G, Moritz KE, Wilkerson MD, Sukumar G, Dalgard CL, Doughty ML. Neuroinflammatory astrocytes generated from cord blood-derived human induced pluripotent stem cells. J Neuroinflammation 2019; 16:164. [PMID: 31395092 PMCID: PMC6688278 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-019-1553-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [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: 03/13/2019] [Accepted: 07/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Astrocytes respond to central nervous system (CNS) injury and disease by transforming to a reactive astrogliosis cell state that can contribute to either CNS dysfunction or repair. Neuroinflammation is a powerful driver of a harmful A1 astrogliosis phenotype associated with in vitro neurotoxicity and histopathology in human neurodegenerative diseases. Here we report a protocol for the rapid development of a human cell culture model of neuroinflammatory astrogliosis using induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). Methods Using RNA sequencing and in vitro cell assays, we measured transcriptional and cellular effects of chronic exposure of human iPSC-derived astrocytes to the cytokines TNFα (tumor necrosis factor alpha) or IL-1β (interleukin-1 beta). Results We show TNFα and IL-1β induce pro-inflammatory gene signatures but by widely different magnitudes. TNFα treatment results in 606 differential expressed genes, the suppression of glutamate-uptake, and increased phagocytic activity in astrocyte cultures. In contrast, IL-1β effects are attenuated to 33 differential expressed genes and no significant effects on glutamate-uptake or increased phagocytic activity. Conclusion Our approach demonstrates a rapid tool for modeling neuroinflammatory human astrocytic responses in nervous system trauma and disease. In particular, we reveal a model for robust TNFα-induced human astrogliosis suitable for the study of neurotoxic A1 astrocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiong Zhou
- Center for Neuroscience and Regenerative Medicine, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, 20814, USA
| | - Coralie Viollet
- Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, Computational Biology, Biberach, Germany
| | - Anastasia Efthymiou
- Ronald M. Loeb Center for Alzheimer's Disease, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Guzal Khayrullina
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Genetics, Center for Neuroscience and Regenerative Medicine, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, 20814, USA
| | - Kasey E Moritz
- Viral Immunology and Intravital Imaging Section, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Matthew D Wilkerson
- Collaborative Health Initiative Research Program, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, 20814, USA
| | - Gauthaman Sukumar
- Collaborative Health Initiative Research Program, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, 20814, USA
| | - Clifton L Dalgard
- Center for Neuroscience and Regenerative Medicine, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, 20814, USA.,Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Genetics, Center for Neuroscience and Regenerative Medicine, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, 20814, USA.,Collaborative Health Initiative Research Program, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, 20814, USA
| | - Martin L Doughty
- Center for Neuroscience and Regenerative Medicine, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, 20814, USA. .,Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Genetics, Center for Neuroscience and Regenerative Medicine, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, 20814, USA.
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15
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Sandvig A, Sandvig I. Connectomics of Morphogenetically Engineered Neurons as a Predictor of Functional Integration in the Ischemic Brain. Front Neurol 2019; 10:630. [PMID: 31249553 PMCID: PMC6582372 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2019.00630] [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: 01/18/2019] [Accepted: 05/28/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent advances in cell reprogramming technologies enable the in vitro generation of theoretically unlimited numbers of cells, including cells of neural lineage and specific neuronal subtypes from human, including patient-specific, somatic cells. Similarly, as demonstrated in recent animal studies, by applying morphogenetic neuroengineering principles in situ, it is possible to reprogram resident brain cells to the desired phenotype. These developments open new exciting possibilities for cell replacement therapy in stroke, albeit not without caveats. Main challenges include the successful integration of engineered cells in the ischemic brain to promote functional restoration as well as the fact that the underlying mechanisms of action are not fully understood. In this review, we aim to provide new insights to the above in the context of connectomics of morphogenetically engineered neural networks. Specifically, we discuss the relevance of combining advanced interdisciplinary approaches to: validate the functionality of engineered neurons by studying their self-organizing behavior into neural networks as well as responses to stroke-related pathology in vitro; derive structural and functional connectomes from these networks in healthy and perturbed conditions; and identify and extract key elements regulating neural network dynamics, which might predict the behavior of grafted engineered neurons post-transplantation in the stroke-injured brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Axel Sandvig
- Department of Neuromedicine and Movement Science, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway.,Department of Neurology, St. Olav's Hospital, Trondheim University Hospital, Trondheim, Norway.,Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neurosciences, Division of Neuro, Head, and Neck, Umeå University Hospital, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Ioanna Sandvig
- Department of Neuromedicine and Movement Science, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
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16
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Kupke A, Becker S, Wewetzer K, Ahlemeyer B, Eickmann M, Herden C. Intranasal Borna Disease Virus (BoDV-1) Infection: Insights into Initial Steps and Potential Contagiosity. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:E1318. [PMID: 30875911 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20061318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2019] [Revised: 03/10/2019] [Accepted: 03/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Mammalian Bornavirus (BoDV-1) typically causes a fatal neurologic disorder in horses and sheep, and was recently shown to cause fatal encephalitis in humans with and without transplant reception. It has been suggested that BoDV-1 enters the central nervous system (CNS) via the olfactory pathway. However, (I) susceptible cell types that replicate the virus for successful spread, and (II) the role of olfactory ensheathing cells (OECs), remained unclear. To address this, we studied the intranasal infection of adult rats with BoDV-1 in vivo and in vitro, using olfactory mucosal (OM) cell cultures and the cultures of purified OECs. Strikingly, in vitro and in vivo, viral antigen and mRNA were present from four days post infection (dpi) onwards in the olfactory receptor neurons (ORNs), but also in all other cell types of the OM, and constantly in the OECs. In contrast, in vivo, BoDV-1 genomic RNA was only detectable in adult and juvenile ORNs, nerve fibers, and in OECs from 7 dpi on. In vitro, the rate of infection of OECs was significantly higher than that of the OM cells, pointing to a crucial role of OECs for infection via the olfactory pathway. Thus, this study provides important insights into the transmission of neurotropic viral infections with a zoonotic potential.
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17
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Grainger AI, King MC, Nagel DA, Parri HR, Coleman MD, Hill EJ. In vitro Models for Seizure-Liability Testing Using Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells. Front Neurosci 2018; 12:590. [PMID: 30233290 PMCID: PMC6127295 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2018.00590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [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: 05/14/2018] [Accepted: 08/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The brain is the most complex organ in the body, controlling our highest functions, as well as regulating myriad processes which incorporate the entire physiological system. The effects of prospective therapeutic entities on the brain and central nervous system (CNS) may potentially cause significant injury, hence, CNS toxicity testing forms part of the “core battery” of safety pharmacology studies. Drug-induced seizure is a major reason for compound attrition during drug development. Currently, the rat ex vivo hippocampal slice assay is the standard option for seizure-liability studies, followed by primary rodent cultures. These models can respond to diverse agents and predict seizure outcome, yet controversy over the relevance, efficacy, and cost of these animal-based methods has led to interest in the development of human-derived models. Existing platforms often utilize rodents, and so lack human receptors and other drug targets, which may produce misleading data, with difficulties in inter-species extrapolation. Current electrophysiological approaches are typically used in a low-throughput capacity and network function may be overlooked. Human-derived induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) are a promising avenue for neurotoxicity testing, increasingly utilized in drug screening and disease modeling. Furthermore, the combination of iPSC-derived models with functional techniques such as multi-electrode array (MEA) analysis can provide information on neuronal network function, with increased sensitivity to neurotoxic effects which disrupt different pathways. The use of an in vitro human iPSC-derived neural model for neurotoxicity studies, combined with high-throughput techniques such as MEA recordings, could be a suitable addition to existing pre-clinical seizure-liability testing strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marianne C King
- Life and Health Sciences, Aston University, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - David A Nagel
- Life and Health Sciences, Aston University, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - H Rheinallt Parri
- Life and Health Sciences, Aston University, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Michael D Coleman
- Life and Health Sciences, Aston University, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Eric J Hill
- Life and Health Sciences, Aston University, Birmingham, United Kingdom
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18
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Zhou R, Jiang G, Tian X, Wang X. Progress in the molecular mechanisms of genetic epilepsies using patient-induced pluripotent stem cells. Epilepsia Open 2018; 3:331-339. [PMID: 30187003 PMCID: PMC6119748 DOI: 10.1002/epi4.12238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [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] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Research findings on the molecular mechanisms of epilepsy almost always originate from animal experiments, and the development of induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) technology allows the use of human cells with genetic defects for studying the molecular mechanisms of genetic epilepsy (GE) for the first time. With iPSC technology, terminally differentiated cells collected from GE patients with specific genetic etiologies can be differentiated into many relevant cell subtypes that carry all of the GE patient's genetic information. iPSCs have opened up a new research field involving the pathogenesis of GE. Using this approach, studies have found that gene mutations induce GE by altering the balance between neuronal excitation and inhibition, which is associated. among other factors, with neuronal developmental disturbances, ion channel abnormalities, and synaptic dysfunction. Simultaneously, astrocyte activation, mitochondrial dysfunction, and abnormal signaling pathway activity are also important factors in the molecular mechanisms of GE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruijiao Zhou
- Department of Neurology the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University Chongqing Key Laboratory of Neurology Chongqing China
| | - Guohui Jiang
- Department of Neurology Institute of Neurological Diseases Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College Nanchong China
| | - Xin Tian
- Department of Neurology the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University Chongqing Key Laboratory of Neurology Chongqing China
| | - Xuefeng Wang
- Department of Neurology the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University Chongqing Key Laboratory of Neurology Chongqing China
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19
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Aebersold MJ, Thompson-Steckel G, Joutang A, Schneider M, Burchert C, Forró C, Weydert S, Han H, Vörös J. Simple and Inexpensive Paper-Based Astrocyte Co-culture to Improve Survival of Low-Density Neuronal Networks. Front Neurosci 2018. [PMID: 29535595 PMCID: PMC5835045 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2018.00094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [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] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Bottom-up neuroscience aims to engineer well-defined networks of neurons to investigate the functions of the brain. By reducing the complexity of the brain to achievable target questions, such in vitro bioassays better control experimental variables and can serve as a versatile tool for fundamental and pharmacological research. Astrocytes are a cell type critical to neuronal function, and the addition of astrocytes to neuron cultures can improve the quality of in vitro assays. Here, we present cellulose as an astrocyte culture substrate. Astrocytes cultured on the cellulose fiber matrix thrived and formed a dense 3D network. We devised a novel co-culture platform by suspending the easy-to-handle astrocytic paper cultures above neuronal networks of low densities typically needed for bottom-up neuroscience. There was significant improvement in neuronal viability after 5 days in vitro at densities ranging from 50,000 cells/cm2 down to isolated cells at 1,000 cells/cm2. Cultures exhibited spontaneous spiking even at the very low densities, with a significantly greater spike frequency per cell compared to control mono-cultures. Applying the co-culture platform to an engineered network of neurons on a patterned substrate resulted in significantly improved viability and almost doubled the density of live cells. Lastly, the shape of the cellulose substrate can easily be customized to a wide range of culture vessels, making the platform versatile for different applications that will further enable research in bottom-up neuroscience and drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mathias J Aebersold
- Laboratory of Biosensors and Bioelectronics, Institute for Biomedical Engineering, ETH Zürich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Greta Thompson-Steckel
- Laboratory of Biosensors and Bioelectronics, Institute for Biomedical Engineering, ETH Zürich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Adriane Joutang
- Laboratory of Biosensors and Bioelectronics, Institute for Biomedical Engineering, ETH Zürich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Moritz Schneider
- Laboratory of Biosensors and Bioelectronics, Institute for Biomedical Engineering, ETH Zürich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Conrad Burchert
- Laboratory of Biosensors and Bioelectronics, Institute for Biomedical Engineering, ETH Zürich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Csaba Forró
- Laboratory of Biosensors and Bioelectronics, Institute for Biomedical Engineering, ETH Zürich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Serge Weydert
- Laboratory of Biosensors and Bioelectronics, Institute for Biomedical Engineering, ETH Zürich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Hana Han
- Laboratory of Biosensors and Bioelectronics, Institute for Biomedical Engineering, ETH Zürich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - János Vörös
- Laboratory of Biosensors and Bioelectronics, Institute for Biomedical Engineering, ETH Zürich, Zurich, Switzerland
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