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Manubens-Gil L, Pons-Espinal M, Gener T, Ballesteros-Yañez I, de Lagrán MM, Dierssen M. Deficits in neuronal architecture but not over-inhibition are main determinants of reduced neuronal network activity in a mouse model of overexpression of Dyrk1A. Cereb Cortex 2024; 34:bhad431. [PMID: 37997361 PMCID: PMC10793573 DOI: 10.1093/cercor/bhad431] [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: 07/04/2023] [Revised: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/21/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023] Open
Abstract
In this study, we investigated the impact of Dual specificity tyrosine-phosphorylation-regulated kinase 1A (Dyrk1A) overexpression, a gene associated with Down syndrome, on hippocampal neuronal deficits in mice. Our findings revealed that mice overexpressing Dyrk1A (TgDyrk1A; TG) exhibited impaired hippocampal recognition memory, disrupted excitation-inhibition balance, and deficits in long-term potentiation (LTP). Specifically, we observed layer-specific deficits in dendritic arborization of TG CA1 pyramidal neurons in the stratum radiatum. Through computational modeling, we determined that these alterations resulted in reduced storage capacity and compromised integration of inputs, with decreased high γ oscillations. Contrary to prevailing assumptions, our model suggests that deficits in neuronal architecture, rather than over-inhibition, primarily contribute to the reduced network. We explored the potential of environmental enrichment (EE) as a therapeutic intervention and found that it normalized the excitation-inhibition balance, restored LTP, and improved short-term recognition memory. Interestingly, we observed transient significant dendritic remodeling, leading to recovered high γ. However, these effects were not sustained after EE discontinuation. Based on our findings, we conclude that Dyrk1A overexpression-induced layer-specific neuromorphological disturbances impair the encoding of place and temporal context. These findings contribute to our understanding of the underlying mechanisms of Dyrk1A-related hippocampal deficits and highlight the challenges associated with long-term therapeutic interventions for cognitive impairments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linus Manubens-Gil
- Institute for Brain Science and Intelligent Technology, Southeast University (SEU), Biomedical engineering, Sipailou street No. 2, Xuanwu district, 210096, Nanjing, China
- School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Southeast University (SEU), Sipailou street No. 2, Xuanwu district, 210096, Nanjing, China
| | - Meritxell Pons-Espinal
- Department of Pathology and Experimental Therapeutics, Bellvitge University Hospital-IDIBELL, Avinguda de la Granvia de l'Hospitalet, 199, 08908 L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
- Institute of Biomedicine (IBUB) of the University of Barcelona (UB), Avda. Diagonal, 643 Edifici Prevosti, planta -108028, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Thomas Gener
- Advanced Electronic Materials and Devices Group (AEMD), Catalan Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (ICN2), CSIC and BIST, UAB Campus, Bellaterra Barcelona 08193, Spain
| | - Inmaculada Ballesteros-Yañez
- Inorganic and Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Castilla- La Mancha, Camino de Moledores, 13071, Ciudad Real, Spain
| | - María Martínez de Lagrán
- Cellular and Systems Neurobiology, Systems and Synthetic Biology Program, Center for Genomic Regulation, Dr. Aiguader 88, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Mara Dierssen
- Cellular and Systems Neurobiology, Systems and Synthetic Biology Program, Center for Genomic Regulation, Dr. Aiguader 88, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
- Center for Biomedical Research in the Network of Rare Diseases (CIBERER), v. Monforte de Lemos, 3-5. Pabellón 11. Planta 0 28029, Madrid, Spain
- Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF), Dr. Aiguader 88, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
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Fructuoso M, Fernández-Blanco Á, Gallego-Román A, Sierra C, de Lagrán MM, Lorenzon N, De Toma I, Langohr K, Martín-García E, Maldonado R, Dairou J, Janel N, Dierssen M. Exploring the link between hedonic overeating and prefrontal cortex dysfunction in the Ts65Dn trisomic mouse model. Cell Mol Life Sci 2023; 80:370. [PMID: 37989807 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-023-05009-x] [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: 07/31/2023] [Revised: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/21/2023] [Indexed: 11/23/2023]
Abstract
Individuals with Down syndrome (DS) have a higher prevalence of obesity compared to the general population. Conventionally, this has been attributed to endocrine issues and lack of exercise. However, deficits in neural reward responses and dopaminergic disturbances in DS may be contributing factors. To investigate this, we focused on a mouse model (Ts65Dn) bearing some triplicated genes homologous to trisomy 21. Through detailed meal pattern analysis in male Ts65Dn mice, we observed an increased preference for energy-dense food, pointing towards a potential "hedonic" overeating behavior. Moreover, trisomic mice exhibited higher scores in compulsivity and inflexibility tests when limited access to energy-dense food and quinine hydrochloride adulteration were introduced, compared to euploid controls. Interestingly, when we activated prelimbic-to-nucleus accumbens projections in Ts65Dn male mice using a chemogenetic approach, impulsive and compulsive behaviors significantly decreased, shedding light on a promising intervention avenue. Our findings uncover a novel mechanism behind the vulnerability to overeating and offer potential new pathways for tackling obesity through innovative interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Fructuoso
- Centre for Genomic Regulation (CRG), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, 08003, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Álvaro Fernández-Blanco
- Centre for Genomic Regulation (CRG), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, 08003, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ana Gallego-Román
- Laboratory of Neuropharmacology-Neurophar, Department of Medicine and Life Sciences, Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Cèsar Sierra
- Centre for Genomic Regulation (CRG), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, 08003, Barcelona, Spain
| | - María Martínez de Lagrán
- Centre for Genomic Regulation (CRG), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, 08003, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Nicola Lorenzon
- Centre for Genomic Regulation (CRG), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, 08003, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ilario De Toma
- Centre for Genomic Regulation (CRG), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, 08003, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Klaus Langohr
- Human Pharmacology and Clinical Neurosciences Research Group, Neurosciences Research Program, Hospital Del Mar Medical Research Institute (IMIM), 08003, Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Statistics and Operations Research, Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya/ BARCELONATECH, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Elena Martín-García
- Laboratory of Neuropharmacology-Neurophar, Department of Medicine and Life Sciences, Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF), Barcelona, Spain
- Human Pharmacology and Clinical Neurosciences Research Group, Neurosciences Research Program, Hospital Del Mar Medical Research Institute (IMIM), 08003, Barcelona, Spain
- Departament de Psicobiologia i Metodologia de Les Ciències de la Salut, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), Cerdanyola del Vallès, Barcelona, Spain
- Laboratoire de Chimie et Biochimie Pharmacologiques et Toxicologique, UMR 8601, CNRS, Université de Paris, 75013, Paris, France
| | - Rafael Maldonado
- Laboratory of Neuropharmacology-Neurophar, Department of Medicine and Life Sciences, Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF), Barcelona, Spain
- Human Pharmacology and Clinical Neurosciences Research Group, Neurosciences Research Program, Hospital Del Mar Medical Research Institute (IMIM), 08003, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Julien Dairou
- Departament de Psicobiologia i Metodologia de Les Ciències de la Salut, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), Cerdanyola del Vallès, Barcelona, Spain
- Laboratoire de Chimie et Biochimie Pharmacologiques et Toxicologique, UMR 8601, CNRS, Université de Paris, 75013, Paris, France
| | - Nathalie Janel
- BFA, UMR 8251, CNRS, Université de Paris, 75013, Paris, France
| | - Mara Dierssen
- Centre for Genomic Regulation (CRG), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, 08003, Barcelona, Spain.
- Laboratory of Neuropharmacology-Neurophar, Department of Medicine and Life Sciences, Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF), Barcelona, Spain.
- Human Pharmacology and Clinical Neurosciences Research Group, Neurosciences Research Program, Hospital Del Mar Medical Research Institute (IMIM), 08003, Barcelona, Spain.
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), Madrid, Spain.
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Manubens-Gil L, Pons-Espinal M, Gener T, Ballesteros-Yañez I, de Lagrán MM, Dierssen M. Deficits in neuronal architecture but not over-inhibition are main determinants of reduced neuronal network activity in a mouse model of overexpression of Dyrk1A. bioRxiv 2023:2023.03.09.531874. [PMID: 36945607 PMCID: PMC10028951 DOI: 10.1101/2023.03.09.531874] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/12/2023]
Abstract
Abnormal dendritic arbors, dendritic spine "dysgenesis" and excitation inhibition imbalance are main traits assumed to underlie impaired cognition and behavioral adaptation in intellectual disability. However, how these modifications actually contribute to functional properties of neuronal networks, such as signal integration or storage capacity is unknown. Here, we used a mouse model overexpressing Dyrk1A (Dual-specificity tyrosine [Y]-regulated kinase), one of the most relevant Down syndrome (DS) candidate genes, to gather quantitative data regarding hippocampal neuronal deficits produced by the overexpression of Dyrk1A in mice (TgDyrk1A; TG). TG mice showed impaired hippocampal recognition memory, altered excitation-inhibition balance and deficits in hippocampal CA1 LTP. We also detected for the first time that deficits in dendritic arborization in TG CA1 pyramidal neurons are layer-specific, with a reduction in the width of the stratum radiatum, the postsynaptic target site of CA3 excitatory neurons, but not in the stratum lacunosum-moleculare, which receives temporo-ammonic projections. To interrogate about the functional impact of layer-specific TG dendritic deficits we developed tailored computational multicompartmental models. Computational modelling revealed that neuronal microarchitecture alterations in TG mice lead to deficits in storage capacity, altered the integration of inputs from entorhinal cortex and hippocampal CA3 region onto CA1 pyramidal cells, important for coding place and temporal context and on connectivity and activity dynamics, with impaired the ability to reach high γ oscillations. Contrary to what is assumed in the field, the reduced network activity in TG is mainly contributed by the deficits in neuronal architecture and to a lesser extent by over-inhibition. Finally, given that therapies aimed at improving cognition have also been tested for their capability to recover dendritic spine deficits and excitation-inhibition imbalance, we also tested the short- and long-term changes produced by exposure to environmental enrichment (EE). Exposure to EE normalized the excitation inhibition imbalance and LTP, and had beneficial effects on short-term recognition memory. Importantly, it produced massive but transient dendritic remodeling of hippocampal CA1, that led to recovery of high γ oscillations, the main readout of synchronization of CA1 neurons, in our simulations. However, those effects where not stable and were lost after EE discontinuation. We conclude that layer-specific neuromorphological disturbances produced by Dyrk1A overexpression impair coding place and temporal context. Our results also suggest that treatments targeting structural plasticity, such as EE, even though hold promise towards improved treatment of intellectual disabilities, only produce temporary recovery, due to transient dendritic remodeling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linus Manubens-Gil
- SEU-Allen Joint Center, Institute for Brain and Intelligence, Southeast University (SEU), China
| | - Meritxell Pons-Espinal
- Department of Pathology and Experimental Therapeutics, Bellvitge University Hospital-IDIBELL, Barcelona, Spain
- Institute of Biomedicine (IBUB) of the University of Barcelona (UB), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Thomas Gener
- Catalan Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (ICN2), Campus UAB, Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Inmaculada Ballesteros-Yañez
- Department of Inorganic and Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Castilla-La Mancha, Ciudad Real, Spain (UCLM), CRIB, Spain
| | - María Martínez de Lagrán
- Centre for Genomic Regulation (CRG), BIST, Spain
- Center for Biomedical Research in the Network of Rare Diseases (CIBERER), Spain
| | - Mara Dierssen
- Centre for Genomic Regulation (CRG), BIST, Spain
- Center for Biomedical Research in the Network of Rare Diseases (CIBERER), Spain
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Abstract
Down syndrome (DS) is the most frequent genetic cause of intellectual disability, characterized by alterations in different behavioral symptom domains: neurodevelopment, motor behavior, and cognition. As mouse models have the potential to generate data regarding the neurological basis for the specific behavioral profile of DS, and may indicate pharmacological treatments with the potential to affect their behavioral phenotype, it is important to be able to assess disease-relevant behavioral traits in animal models in order to provide biological plausibility to the potential findings. The field is at a juncture that requires assessments that may effectively translate the findings acquired in mouse models to humans with DS. In this article, behavioral tests are described that are relevant to the domains affected in DS. A neurodevelopmental behavioral screen, the balance beam test, and the Multivariate Concentric Square Field test to assess multiple behavioral phenotypes and locomotion are described, discussing the ways to merge these findings to more fully understand cognitive strengths and weaknesses in this population. New directions for approaches to cognitive assessment in mice and humans are discussed. © 2020 Wiley Periodicals LLC. Basic Protocol 1: Preweaning neurodevelopmental battery Basic Protocol 2: Balance beam Basic Protocol 3: Multivariate concentric square field test (MCSF).
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - María Martínez de Lagrán
- Centre for Genomic Regulation (CRG), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Mara Dierssen
- Centre for Genomic Regulation (CRG), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Barcelona, Spain.,Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF), Barcelona, Spain.,Biomedical Research Networking Center on Rare Diseases (CIBERER), Institute of Health Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
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Dierssen M, Fructuoso M, Martínez de Lagrán M, Perluigi M, Barone E. Down Syndrome Is a Metabolic Disease: Altered Insulin Signaling Mediates Peripheral and Brain Dysfunctions. Front Neurosci 2020; 14:670. [PMID: 32733190 PMCID: PMC7360727 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2020.00670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [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: 04/02/2020] [Accepted: 06/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Down syndrome (DS) is the most frequent chromosomal abnormality that causes intellectual disability, resulting from the presence of an extra complete or segment of chromosome 21 (HSA21). In addition, trisomy of HSA21 contributes to altered energy metabolism that appears to be a strong determinant in the development of pathological phenotypes associated with DS. Alterations include, among others, mitochondrial defects, increased oxidative stress levels, impaired glucose, and lipid metabolism, finally resulting in reduced energy production and cellular dysfunctions. These molecular defects seem to account for a high incidence of metabolic disorders, i.e., diabetes and/or obesity, as well as a higher risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease (AD) in DS. A dysregulation of the insulin signaling with reduced downstream pathways represents a common pathophysiological aspect in the development of both peripheral and central alterations leading to diabetes/obesity and AD. This is further strengthened by evidence showing that the molecular mechanisms responsible for such alterations appear to be similar between peripheral organs and brain. Considering that DS subjects are at high risk to develop either peripheral or brain metabolic defects, this review will discuss current knowledge about the link between trisomy of HSA21 and defects of insulin and insulin-related pathways in DS. Drawing the molecular signature underlying these processes in DS is a key challenge to identify novel drug targets and set up new prevention strategies aimed to reduce the impact of metabolic disorders and cognitive decline.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mara Dierssen
- Centre for Genomic Regulation (CRG), Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Barcelona, Spain.,Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain.,Human Pharmacology and Clinical Neurosciences Research Group, Neurosciences Research Program, Hospital Del Mar Medical Research Institute (IMIM), Barcelona, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), Madrid, Spain
| | - Marta Fructuoso
- Centre for Genomic Regulation (CRG), Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Barcelona, Spain
| | - María Martínez de Lagrán
- Centre for Genomic Regulation (CRG), Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Barcelona, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), Madrid, Spain
| | - Marzia Perluigi
- Department of Biochemical Sciences "A. Rossi-Fanelli", Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Eugenio Barone
- Department of Biochemical Sciences "A. Rossi-Fanelli", Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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Martínez de Lagrán M. Mapping behavioral landscapes in Down syndrome animal models. Progress in Brain Research 2020; 251:145-179. [DOI: 10.1016/bs.pbr.2020.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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7
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Del Pino I, García-Frigola C, Dehorter N, Brotons-Mas JR, Alvarez-Salvado E, Martínez de Lagrán M, Ciceri G, Gabaldón MV, Moratal D, Dierssen M, Canals S, Marín O, Rico B. Erbb4 deletion from fast-spiking interneurons causes schizophrenia-like phenotypes. Neuron 2013; 79:1152-68. [PMID: 24050403 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2013.07.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 218] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/05/2013] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Genetic variation in neuregulin and its ErbB4 receptor has been linked to schizophrenia, although little is known about how they contribute to the disease process. Here, we have examined conditional Erbb4 mouse mutants to study how disruption of specific inhibitory circuits in the cerebral cortex may cause large-scale functional deficits. We found that deletion of ErbB4 from the two main classes of fast-spiking interneurons, chandelier and basket cells, causes relatively subtle but consistent synaptic defects. Surprisingly, these relatively small wiring abnormalities boost cortical excitability, increase oscillatory activity, and disrupt synchrony across cortical regions. These functional deficits are associated with increased locomotor activity, abnormal emotional responses, and impaired social behavior and cognitive function. Our results reinforce the view that dysfunction of cortical fast-spiking interneurons might be central to the pathophysiology of schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabel Del Pino
- Instituto de Neurociencias, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas and Universidad Miguel Hernández, Sant Joan d'Alacant 03550, Spain
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Fillat C, Dierssen M, de Lagrán MM, Altafaj X. Insights from mouse models to understand neurodegeneration in Down syndrome. CNS Neurol Disord Drug Targets 2010; 9:429-38. [PMID: 20522013 DOI: 10.2174/187152710791556159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2009] [Accepted: 01/25/2010] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Individuals with trisomy 21, also known as Down syndrome (DS), develop a clinical syndrome including almost identical neuropathological characteristics of Alzheimer's disease (AD) observed in non-DS individuals. The main difference is the early age of onset of AD pathology in individuals with DS, with hish incidence of clinical symptoms in the late 40- early 50 years of age. The neuropathology of AD in persons with DS is superimposed with the developmental abnormalities causing alterations of neuronal morphology and function. Despite the ubiquitous occurrence of AD neuropathology, clinical signs of dementia do not occur in all adults with DS even at older ages. Phenotype analysis of DS mouse models has revealed a differential age-related neurodegenerative pattern that correlates with specific biochemical and molecular alterations at the cellular level. In fact, several individual genes found in trisomy in DS have been functionally related to neuronal degeneration. Thus, mouse models overexpressing HSA21 gene(s) are fundamental to understand the neurodegenerative process in DS, as described in the present review. In addition, these models might allow to define and evaluate potential drug targets and to develop therapeutic strategies that may interfere or delay the onset of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Fillat
- Centre de Regulació Genòmica, UPF, Parc de Recerca Biomèdica de Barcelona, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras, Spain.
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Arqué G, de Lagrán MM, Arbonés ML, Dierssen M. Age-associated motor and visuo-spatial learning phenotype in Dyrk1A heterozygous mutant mice. Neurobiol Dis 2009; 36:312-9. [PMID: 19660545 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2009.07.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2009] [Revised: 07/27/2009] [Accepted: 07/28/2009] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Dual-specificity tyrosine-regulated kinase 1A (DYRK1A) is a candidate gene for the Down syndrome neurological defects and may be involved in the progression of Alzheimer's disease. Heterozygous mice for Dyrk1A (Dyrk1A+/-) exhibit decreased brain size, motor abnormalities and cognitive deficits in the adult. However, there is no information about the mutant phenotype in old ages. Here we analyze the impact of Dyrk1A dosage reduction on motor performance and hippocampal-dependent learning and memory in aged Dyrk1A+/- mice. Whereas motor tests showed marked alterations in traction ability, prehensile reflex and balance, heterozygous mice only present a slight impairment of visuo-spatial memory even though they show a robust decrease of CA1-CA3 and dentate gyrus cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Glòria Arqué
- Genes and Disease Program, Center for Genomic Regulation (CRG), Pompeu Fabra University, Barcelona Biomedical Research Park (PRBB) and CIBER de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), Barcelona, Spain
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10
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Vidal B, Serrano AL, Tjwa M, Suelves M, Ardite E, De Mori R, Baeza-Raja B, Martínez de Lagrán M, Lafuste P, Ruiz-Bonilla V, Jardí M, Gherardi R, Christov C, Dierssen M, Carmeliet P, Degen JL, Dewerchin M, Muñoz-Cánoves P. Fibrinogen drives dystrophic muscle fibrosis via a TGFbeta/alternative macrophage activation pathway. Genes Dev 2008; 22:1747-52. [PMID: 18593877 DOI: 10.1101/gad.465908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 194] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
In the fatal degenerative Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), skeletal muscle is progressively replaced by fibrotic tissue. Here, we show that fibrinogen accumulates in dystrophic muscles of DMD patients and mdx mice. Genetic loss or pharmacological depletion of fibrinogen in these mice reduced fibrosis and dystrophy progression. Our results demonstrate that fibrinogen-Mac-1 receptor binding, through induction of IL-1beta, drives the synthesis of transforming growth factor-beta (TGFbeta) by mdx macrophages, which in turn induces collagen production in mdx fibroblasts. Fibrinogen-produced TGFbeta further amplifies collagen accumulation through activation of profibrotic alternatively activated macrophages. Fibrinogen, by engaging its alphavbeta3 receptor on fibroblasts, also directly promotes collagen synthesis. These data unveil a profibrotic role of fibrinogen deposition in muscle dystrophy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Berta Vidal
- Program on Differentiation and Cancer, Center for Genomic Regulation (CRG), Pompeu Fabra University (UPF), E-08003 Barcelona, Spain
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Arqué G, Fotaki V, Fernández D, de Lagrán MM, Arbonés ML, Dierssen M. Impaired spatial learning strategies and novel object recognition in mice haploinsufficient for the dual specificity tyrosine-regulated kinase-1A (Dyrk1A). PLoS One 2008; 3:e2575. [PMID: 18648535 PMCID: PMC2481280 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0002575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2008] [Accepted: 05/28/2008] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pathogenic aneuploidies involve the concept of dosage-sensitive genes leading to over- and underexpression phenotypes. Monosomy 21 in human leads to mental retardation and skeletal, immune and respiratory function disturbances. Most of the human condition corresponds to partial monosomies suggesting that critical haploinsufficient genes may be responsible for the phenotypes. The DYRK1A gene is localized on the human chromosome 21q22.2 region, and has been proposed to participate in monosomy 21 phenotypes. It encodes a dual-specificity kinase involved in neuronal development and in adult brain physiology, but its possible role as critical haploinsufficient gene in cognitive function has not been explored. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS We used mice heterozygous for a Dyrk1A targeted mutation (Dyrk1A+/-) to investigate the implication of this gene in the cognitive phenotypes of monosomy 21. Performance of Dyrk1A+/- mice was assayed 1/ in a navigational task using the standard hippocampally related version of the Morris water maze, 2/ in a swimming test designed to reveal potential kinesthetic and stress-related behavioral differences between control and heterozygous mice under two levels of aversiveness (25 degrees C and 17 degrees C) and 3/ in a long-term novel object recognition task, sensitive to hippocampal damage. Dyrk1A+/- mice showed impairment in the development of spatial learning strategies in a hippocampally-dependent memory task, they were impaired in their novel object recognition ability and were more sensitive to aversive conditions in the swimming test than euploid control animals. CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE The present results are clear examples where removal of a single gene has a profound effect on phenotype and indicate that haploinsufficiency of DYRK1A might contribute to an impairment of cognitive functions and stress coping behavior in human monosomy 21.
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Affiliation(s)
- Glòria Arqué
- Genes and Disease Program, Genomic Regulation Center-CRG, Pompeu Fabra University, Barcelona, Spain
- CIBER de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Vassiliki Fotaki
- Genes and Disease Program, Genomic Regulation Center-CRG, Pompeu Fabra University, Barcelona, Spain
| | - David Fernández
- Genes and Disease Program, Genomic Regulation Center-CRG, Pompeu Fabra University, Barcelona, Spain
| | - María Martínez de Lagrán
- Genes and Disease Program, Genomic Regulation Center-CRG, Pompeu Fabra University, Barcelona, Spain
- CIBER de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Maria L. Arbonés
- Genes and Disease Program, Genomic Regulation Center-CRG, Pompeu Fabra University, Barcelona, Spain
- CIBER de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Mara Dierssen
- Genes and Disease Program, Genomic Regulation Center-CRG, Pompeu Fabra University, Barcelona, Spain
- CIBER de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), Barcelona, Spain
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12
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Suelves M, Vidal B, Serrano AL, Tjwa M, Roma J, López-Alemany R, Luttun A, de Lagrán MM, Díaz-Ramos A, Díaz MA, Jardí M, Roig M, Dierssen M, Dewerchin M, Carmeliet P, Muñoz-Cánoves P. uPA deficiency exacerbates muscular dystrophy in MDX mice. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2007; 178:1039-51. [PMID: 17785520 PMCID: PMC2064626 DOI: 10.1083/jcb.200705127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a fatal and incurable muscle degenerative disorder. We identify a function of the protease urokinase plasminogen activator (uPA) in mdx mice, a mouse model of DMD. The expression of uPA is induced in mdx dystrophic muscle, and the genetic loss of uPA in mdx mice exacerbated muscle dystrophy and reduced muscular function. Bone marrow (BM) transplantation experiments revealed a critical function for BM-derived uPA in mdx muscle repair via three mechanisms: (1) by promoting the infiltration of BM-derived inflammatory cells; (2) by preventing the excessive deposition of fibrin; and (3) by promoting myoblast migration. Interestingly, genetic loss of the uPA receptor in mdx mice did not exacerbate muscular dystrophy in mdx mice, suggesting that uPA exerts its effects independently of its receptor. These findings underscore the importance of uPA in muscular dystrophy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mònica Suelves
- Program on Differentiation and Cancer, Center for Genomic Regulation, E-08003, Barcelona, Spain
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13
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Dierssen M, Gratacòs M, Sahún I, Martín M, Gallego X, Amador-Arjona A, Martínez de Lagrán M, Murtra P, Martí E, Pujana MA, Ferrer I, Dalfó E, Martínez-Cué C, Flórez J, Torres-Peraza JF, Alberch J, Maldonado R, Fillat C, Estivill X. Transgenic mice overexpressing the full-length neurotrophin receptor TrkC exhibit increased catecholaminergic neuron density in specific brain areas and increased anxiety-like behavior and panic reaction. Neurobiol Dis 2006; 24:403-18. [PMID: 16963267 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2006.07.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2006] [Revised: 06/27/2006] [Accepted: 07/26/2006] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Accumulating evidence has suggested that neurotrophins participate in the pathophysiology of mood disorders. We have developed transgenic mice overexpressing the full-length neurotrophin-3 receptor TrkC (TgNTRK3) in the central nervous system. TgNTRK3 mice show increased anxiety-like behavior and enhancement of panic reaction in the mouse defense test battery, along with an increase in the number and density of catecholaminergic (tyrosine hydroxylase positive) neurons in locus coeruleus and substantia nigra. Furthermore, treatment of TgNTRK3 mice with diazepam significantly attenuated the anxiety-like behaviors in the plus maze. These results provide evidence for the involvement of TrkC in the development of noradrenergic neurons in the central nervous system with consequences on anxiety-like behavior and panic reaction. Thus, changes in TrkC expression levels could contribute to the phenotypic expression of panic disorder through a trophic effect on noradrenergic neurons in the locus coeruleus. Our results demonstrate that the elevated NT3-TrkC tone via overexpression of TrkC in the brain may constitute a molecular mechanism for the expression of anxiety and anxiety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mara Dierssen
- Genes and Disease Program, Genomic Regulation Center (CRG-UPF), Barcelona, Biomedical Research Park, E-08003 Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain.
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14
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Dierssen M, Ortiz-Abalia J, Arqué G, de Lagrán MM, Fillat C. Pitfalls And Hopes in Down Syndrome Therapeutic Approaches: In the Search for Evidence-Based Treatments. Behav Genet 2006; 36:454-68. [PMID: 16520905 DOI: 10.1007/s10519-006-9050-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2005] [Accepted: 07/17/2005] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Trisomy 21 or Down syndrome (DS) is a complex syndrome, of genetic origin with multiple and variable neurobiological and neuropsychological manifestations. DS patients have consistent signs of brain damage along their lives, but understanding the biology of DS is complicated due to the extraordinary heterogeneity of the phenotypic signs. Thus, treatment of DS mental retardation poses significant challenges for clinicians and scientists. The review addresses the classical pharmacological and environmental treatments and also critically reviews the new possibilities that are emerging from the exciting advances in gene or cell therapy. We describe some of the most recent developments in the field and give a sense of the prospects for future prevention and therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mara Dierssen
- Genes and Disease Program, Genomic Regulation Center, (CRG-UPF), Barcelona Biomedical Research Park, Spain
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