|
|
|
Full Text Available.BackgroundClinical data on osteoarthritis (OA) suggest widespread changes in sensory function that vary during the progression of OA. In previous studies on a surgically-induced animal model of OA we have observed that changes in structure and gene expression follow a variable trajectory over the initial days and weeks. To investigate mechanisms underlying changes in sensory function in this model, the present electrophysiological study compared properties of primary sensory nociceptive neurons at one and two months after model induction with properties in naïve control animals. Pilot data indicated no difference in C- or Aδ-fiber associated neurons and therefore the focus is on Aβ-fiber nociceptive neurons.ResultsAt one month after unilateral derangement of the knee by cutting the anterior cruciate ligament and removing the medial meniscus, the only changes observed in Aβ-fiber dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons were in nociceptor-like unresponsive neurons bearing a hump on the repolarization phase; these changes consisted of longer half width, reflecting slowed dynamics of AP genesis, a depolarized Vm and an increased AP amplitude. At two months, changes observed were in Aβ-fiber high threshold mechanoreceptors, which exhibited shorter AP duration at base and half width, shorter rise time and fall time, and faster maximum rising rate/maximum falling rate, reflecting accelerated dynamics of AP genesis.ConclusionThese data indicate that Aβ nociceptive neurons undergo significant changes that vary in time and occur later than changes in structure and in nociceptive scores in this surgically induced OA model. Thus, if changes in Aβ-fiber nociceptive neurons in this model reflect a role in OA pain, they may relate to mechanisms underlying pain associated with advanced OA.
BackgroundClinical data on osteoarthritis (OA) suggest widespread changes in sensory function that vary during the progression of OA. In previous studies on a surgically-induced...Full Text Available
1995-12-31
The aim of this work was to study aging of cultured vascular cells. In order to induce an oxidative stress, which is known to participate in aging process, we apply {gamma}-induced peroxidation and is revealed by indirect immunofluorescence. (author). 6 refs.
http://espace.library.uq.edu.au/view/UQ:170584
alpha-Conotoxins Vc1.1 and Rg1A are peptides from the venom of marine Conus snails that are currently in development as a treatment for neuropathic pain. Here we report that the alpha 9 alpha 10 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor-selective conotoxins Vc1.1 and Rg1A potently and selectively inhibit high-voltage-activated (HVA) calcium channel currents in dissociated DRG neurons in a concentration-dependent manner. The post-translationally modified peptides vc1a and [P60] Vc1.1 were inactive, as were all other alpha-conotoxins tested. Vc1.1 inhibited the alpha-conotoxin-sensitive HVA currents in DRG neurons but not those recorded from Xenopus oocytes expressing Ca(V)2.2, Ca(V)2.1, Ca(V)2.3, or Ca(V)1.2 channels. Inhibition of HVA currents by Vc1.1 was not reversed by depolarizing prepulses but was abolished by pertussis toxin (PTX), intracellular GDP beta S, or a selective inhibitor of pp60c-src tyrosine kinase. These data indicate that Vc1.1 does not interact with N-type calcium channels directly but inhibits them via a voltage-independent mechanism involving a PTX-sensitive, G-protein-coupled receptor. Preincubation with a variety of selective receptor antagonists demonstrated that only the GABAB receptor antagonists, [S-(R*, R*)][-3-[[1-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)ethyl]amino]-2-hydroxy propyl]([3,4]-cyclohexylmethyl) phosphinic acid hydrochloride (2S)-3[[(1S)-1-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)-ethyl]amino-2-hydroxypropyl](phenylm ethyl) phosphinic acid and phaclofen, blocked the effect of Vc1.1 and Rg1A on Ca2+ channel currents. Together, the results identify CaV2.2 as a target of Vc1.1 and Rg1A, potentially mediating their analgesic actions. We propose a novel mechanism by which alpha-conotoxins Vc1.1 and Rg1A modulate native N-type (Ca(V)2.2) Ca2+ channel currents, namely acting as agonists via G-protein-coupled GABAB receptors. Coverage: 2008-10-01T00:00:00Z
axion: Axion - Java Database - News
The Axion news feed is on hiatus, yet Axion is still being actively developed. ... Better late than never, it's the Axion database project's October 2003 ...
A small, fast, SQL and JDBC compliant relational database engine written in and for the Java programming language. [Open source, BSD License]
Wnt5a Mediates NGF-Dependent Axonal Branching and Growth in Developing Sympathetic Neurons
2009-06-10
Nerve growth factor (NGF) is a potent survival and axon growth factor for neuronal populations in the peripheral nervous system. While the mechanisms by which target-derived NGF influences survival...Full Text Available
Wnt5a Mediates NGF-Dependent Axonal Branching and Growth in Developing Sympathetic Neurons
2009-06-10
Full Text Available.Nerve growth factor (NGF) is a potent survival and axon growth factor for neuronal populations in the peripheral nervous system. While the mechanisms by which target-derived NGF influences survival of innervating neurons have been extensively investigated, its regulation of axonal growth and target innervation are just being elucidated. Here, we identify Wnt5a, a member of the Wnt family of secreted growth factors, as a key downstream effector of NGF in mediating axonal branching and growth in developing sympathetic neurons. Wnt5a is robustly expressed in sympathetic neurons when their axons are innervating NGF-expressing targets. NGF:TrkA signaling enhances neuronal expression of Wnt5a. Wnt5a rapidly induces axon branching while it has a long-term effect on promoting axon extension. Loss of Wnt5a function revealed that it is necessary for NGF-dependent axonal branching and growth, but not survival, in vitro. Furthermore, Wnt5a−/− mice display reduced innervation of NGF-expressing target tissues, and a subsequent increase in neuronal apoptosis, in vivo. Wnt5a functions in developing sympathetic neurons by locally activating protein kinase C (PKC) in axons. Together, our findings define a novel regulatory pathway in which Wnt5a, expressed in sympathetic neurons in response to target-derived NGF, regulates innervation of peripheral targets.
The use of menthol in cigarettes is actively promoted by the tobacco industry for its per-ceived sensory benefits, and smokers of menthol cigarettes commonly differ from nonmen-thol smokers in markers of smoking behavior and addiction.
1994-12-31
The synthetic cytokine (Synthokine) SC-55494 is a high affinity IL-3 receptor ligand. The therapeutic administration of Synthokine to total body irradiated (TBI) monkeys (7 Gy gamma) from day 1 post TBI for 23 days, significantly enhanced platelet recovery and modulated aneutrophil nadir. (author). 6 refs.
This volume contains abstracts of oral presentations and poster sessions of made at the LVII Cold Springs Symposium on Quantitative Biology, entitled The Cell Surface.
1992-12-31
This volume contains abstracts of oral presentations and poster sessions of made at the LVII Cold Springs Symposium on Quantitative Biology, entitled The Cell Surface.
2009-01-15
Radial glia are highly polarized cells that serve as neuronal progenitors and as scaffolds for neuronal migration during construction of the cerebral cortex. How radial glial cells establish...Full Text Available
2009-01-15
Full Text Available.Radial glia are highly polarized cells that serve as neuronal progenitors and as scaffolds for neuronal migration during construction of the cerebral cortex. How radial glial cells establish and maintain their morphological polarity is unknown. Using conditional gene targeting in mice, we demonstrate that Adenomatous Polyposis Coli (APC) serves an essential function in the maintenance of polarized radial glial scaffold during brain development. In the absence of APC, radial glial cells lose their polarity and responsiveness to the extracellular polarity maintenance cues, such as neuregulin-1. Elimination of APC further leads to marked instability of the radial glial microtubule cytoskeleton. The resultant changes in radial glial function and loss of APC in radial glial progeny lead to defective generation and migration of cortical neurons, severely disrupted cortical layer formation, and aberrant axonal tract development. Thus APC is an essential regulator of radial glial polarity and is critical for the construction of cerebral cortex in mammals.
2009-02-11
Full Text Available.Damage to peripheral nerves is known to contribute to chronic pain states, including mechanical and thermal hyperalgesia and allodynia. It is unknown whether the establishment of these states is due to peripheral changes, central modifications or both. In this study, we used several different approaches to assess the changes in myelinated (A) and unmyelinated (C) cutaneous nociceptors following transection and regeneration of the saphenous nerve. An ex-vivo recording preparation was used to examine response characteristics and neurochemical phenotype of different types of functionally defined neurons. We found that myelinated nociceptors had significantly lower mechanical and thermal thresholds after regeneration, while C-polymodal nociceptors (CPMs) had lower heat thresholds. There was a significant increase in the percentage of mechanically insensitive C-fibers that responded to heat (CHs) after regeneration. Immunocytochemical analysis of identified afferents revealed that most CPMs were isolectin B4 (IB4) positive and transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) negative, while CHs were always TRPV1 positive and IB4 negative in naÏve animals (Lawson et al., 2008). However, after regeneration, some identified CPMs and CHs stained positively for both markers, which was apparently due to an increase in the total number of IB4 positive neurons. Realtime PCR analysis of L2/L3 DRGs and hairy hindpaw skin at various times after saphenous nerve axotomy suggested multiple changes in neurotrophic factor signaling that either correlated with denervation or reinnervation of the cutaneous target. These changes may underlie the functional alterations observed after nerve regeneration and may explain how nerve damage leads to chronic pain conditions.
2009-02-11
Damage to peripheral nerves is known to contribute to chronic pain states, including mechanical and thermal hyperalgesia and allodynia. It is unknown whether the establishment of these states...Full Text Available
2010-01-01
Neurotrophins at axonal terminals signal to cell bodies to regulate neuronal development via signaling endosomes containing activated Trk receptor tyrosine kinases and mitogen-activated protein kinases...Full Text Available
2010-01-01
Full Text Available.Neurotrophins at axonal terminals signal to cell bodies to regulate neuronal development via signaling endosomes containing activated Trk receptor tyrosine kinases and mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs). Requirements for the formation of signaling endosomes remain, however, poorly characterized. Here we show that a novel Trk-interacting protein, NTRAP (neurotrophic factor receptor–associated protein), plays a crucial role in this signaling process. NTRAP interacts with the Trk intracellular domain through its C2H2 zinc fingers in a kinase-dependent manner. It is associated with vesicles, some of which contain markers for signaling endosomes. Inhibition of NTRAP function suppresses neurotrophin-induced neurite outgrowth in PC12 cells by altering TrkA endocytic traffic, inhibiting the formation of endosomes containing persistently active MAPKs. In compartmentalized sensory neuron cultures, down-regulation of NTRAP abolishes the ability of neurotrophins applied to distal axons to activate the transcription factor adenosine 3′,5′-monophosphate response element-binding protein (CREB) and to promote neuronal survival. We propose that NTRAP regulates retrograde neurotrophic signaling by controlling the formation of signaling endosomes.
Protein synthesis in distal axons is not required for growth cone responses to guidance cues
2009-01-21
Recent evidence suggests growth cone responses to guidance cues require local protein synthesis. Using chick neurons, we investigated whether protein synthesis is required for growth cones of...Full Text Available
Protein synthesis in distal axons is not required for growth cone responses to guidance cues
2009-01-21
Full Text Available.Recent evidence suggests growth cone responses to guidance cues require local protein synthesis. Using chick neurons, we investigated whether protein synthesis is required for growth cones of several types to respond to guidance cues. First, we found that global inhibition of protein synthesis stops axonal elongation after two hr. When protein synthesis inhibitors were added 15 min before adding guidance cues, we found no changes in the typical responses of retinal, sensory and sympathetic growth cones. In the presence of cycloheximide or anisomycin, ephrin-A2, slit-3, and semaphorin3A still induced growth cone collapse and loss of actin filaments, NGF and NT-3 still induced growth cone protrusion and increased F-actin, and sensory growth cones turned toward an NGF source. In compartmented chambers that separated perikarya from axons, axons grew for 24-48 hr in the presence of cycloheximide and responded to negative and positive cues. Our results indicate that protein synthesis is not strictly required in the mechanisms for growth cone responses to many guidance cues. Differences between our results and other studies may exist because of different cellular metabolic levels in in vitro conditions, and a difference in when axonal functions become dependent on local protein synthesis.
1994-12-31
In this study we investigated the in situ localization of IL-6 in mixed neutron-gamma irradiated baboons belly skin. Using immunohistochemical methods, we demonstrated the presence of IL-6 as early as the first day after the irradiation day. However experimental conditions did not allow us to conclude to a causality relation between irradiation and IL-6 cutaneous presence. (author). 4 refs.
2009-03-01
We have developed a model in which inflammation contiguous to and within a dorsal root ganglion (DRG) was generated by local application of complete Freund’s adjuvant (CFA) to the L4...Full Text Available
2009-03-01
Full Text Available.We have developed a model in which inflammation contiguous to and within a dorsal root ganglion (DRG) was generated by local application of complete Freund’s adjuvant (CFA) to the L4 lumbar spinal nerve as it exits from the intervertebral foramen. The periganglionic inflammation (PGI) elicited a marked reduction in withdrawal threshold to mechanical stimuli and an increase in heat pain sensitivity in the ipsilateral hindpaw in the absence of any hindpaw inflammation. The pain sensitivity appeared within hours and lasted for a week. The PGI also induced a prominent increase in IL-1 β and TNF-α levels in the DRG and of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) expression in neurons and satellite cells. A selective COX-2 inhibitor reduced the PGI-induced hyperalgesia. We also show that IL-1 β induces COX-2 expression and prostaglandin release in DRG neurons in vitro in a MAP kinase-dependent fashion. The COX-2 induction was prevented by ERK and p38 inhibitors. We conclude that periganglionic inflammation increases cytokine levels, including IL-1 β, leading to the transcription of COX-2 and prostaglandin production in the affected DRG, and thereby to the development of a dermatomally distributed pain hypersensitivity.
Nuclear Physics Department annual report
1997-07-01
This annual report presents articles and abstracts published in foreign journals, covering the following subjects: nuclear structure, nuclear reactions, applied physics, instrumentation, nonlinear phenomena and high energy physics
1994-12-31
The essential non-protein sulfhydryl compound implicated in cellular radioprotection is glutathione. Protein thiols seem to be also involved in this protection and might be scavengers for free radical injury. We developed an analytical procedure for protein thiols measurement and we applied this method in neutron-gamma irradiated baboons. Our results demonstrated the reliability and sensitivity of the procedure. They also a drastic decrease of in vivo protein thiols after irradiation. (author). 5 refs.
Neural tube defects in mice with reduced levels of inositol 1,3,4-trisphosphate 5/6-kinase
2009-06-16
Inositol 1,3,4-trisphosphate 5/6-kinase (ITPK1) is a key regulatory enzyme at the branch point for the synthesis of inositol hexakisphosphate (IP6), an intracellular signaling molecule implicated...Full Text Available
Neural tube defects in mice with reduced levels of inositol 1,3,4-trisphosphate 5/6-kinase
2009-06-16
Full Text Available.Inositol 1,3,4-trisphosphate 5/6-kinase (ITPK1) is a key regulatory enzyme at the branch point for the synthesis of inositol hexakisphosphate (IP6), an intracellular signaling molecule implicated in the regulation of ion channels, endocytosis, exocytosis, transcription, DNA repair, and RNA export from the nucleus. IP6 also has been shown to be an integral structural component of several proteins. We have generated a mouse strain harboring a β-galactosidase (βgal) gene trap cassette in the second intron of the Itpk1 gene. Animals homozygous for this gene trap are viable, fertile, and produce less ITPK1 protein than wild-type and heterozygous animals. Thus, the gene trap represents a hypomorphic rather than a null allele. Using a combination of immunohistochemistry, in situ hybridization, and βgal staining of mice heterozygous for the hypomorphic allele, we found high expression of Itpk1 in the developing central and peripheral nervous systems and in the paraxial mesoderm. Examination of embryos resulting from homozygous matings uncovered neural tube defects (NTDs) in some animals and axial skeletal defects or growth retardation in others. On a C57BL/6 × 129(P2)Ola background, 12% of mid-gestation embryos had spina bifida and/or exencephaly, whereas wild-type animals of the same genetic background had no NTDs. We conclude that ITPK1 is required for proper development of the neural tube and axial mesoderm.
Nav2 is necessary for cranial nerve development and blood pressure regulation
Full Text Available.BackgroundAll-trans retinoic acid (atRA) is required for nervous system development, including the developing hindbrain region. Neuron navigator 2 (Nav2) was first identified as an atRA-responsive gene in human neuroblastoma cells (retinoic acid-induced in neuroblastoma 1, Rainb1), and is required for atRA-mediated neurite outgrowth. In this paper, we explore the importance of Nav2 in nervous system development and function in vivo.ResultsNav2 hypomorphic homozygous mutants show decreased survival starting at birth. Nav2 mutant embryos show an overall reduction in nerve fiber density, as well as specific defects in cranial nerves IX (glossopharyngeal) and X (vagus). Nav2 hypomorphic mutant adult mice also display a blunted baroreceptor response compared to wild-type controls.ConclusionsNav2 functions in mammalian nervous system development, and is required for normal cranial nerve development and blood pressure regulation in the adult.
Nav2 is necessary for cranial nerve development and blood pressure regulation
BackgroundAll-trans retinoic acid (atRA) is required for nervous system development, including the developing hindbrain region. Neuron navigator 2 (Nav2)...Full Text Available
N-APP binds DR6 to cause axon pruning and neuron death via distinct caspases
2009-02-19
Naturally-occurring axonal pruning and neuronal cell death help sculpt neuronal connections during development, but their mechanistic basis remains poorly understood. We report that Amyloid...Full Text Available
N-APP binds DR6 to cause axon pruning and neuron death via distinct caspases
2009-02-19
Full Text Available.Naturally-occurring axonal pruning and neuronal cell death help sculpt neuronal connections during development, but their mechanistic basis remains poorly understood. We report that Amyloid Precursor Protein (APP) and Death Receptor 6 (DR6) activate a widespread caspase-dependent self-destruction program. DR6 is broadly expressed by developing neurons, and is required for normal cell body death and axonal pruning both in vivo and after trophic factor deprivation in vitro. Unlike neuronal cell body apoptosis, which requires caspase-3, we show that axonal degeneration requires caspase-6, which is activated in a punctate pattern that parallels the pattern of axonal fragmentation. DR6 is activated locally by an inactive surface ligand(s) that is released in active form upon trophic factor deprivation, and we identify APP as a DR6 ligand. Trophic factor deprivation triggers shedding of surface APP in a beta-secretase (BACE)-dependent manner. Loss- and gain-of-function studies support a model in which a cleaved amino-terminal fragment of APP (N-APP) binds DR6 and triggers degeneration. Genetic support is provided by a common neuromuscular junction phenotype in mutant mice. Our results indicate that APP and DR6 are components of a neuronal self-destruction pathway, and suggest that an extracellular fragment of APP, acting via DR6 and caspase-6, contributes to Alzheimer’s disease.
Montreal Axion - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
The Montreal Axion are a National Women's Hockey League team located in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. v ? d ? e · Sports teams based in the province of Quebec, ...
Macrophages Promote Axon Regeneration with Concurrent Neurotoxicity
2009-03-25
Full Text Available.Activated macrophages can promote regeneration of CNS axons. However, macrophages also release factors that kill neurons. These opposing functions are likely induced simultaneously but are rarely considered together in the same experimental preparation. A goal of this study was to unequivocally document the concurrent neurotoxic and neuroregenerative potential of activated macrophages. To do so, we quantified the length and magnitude of axon growth from EGFP-expressing DRG neurons transplanted into the spinal cord in relationship to discrete foci of activated macrophages. Macrophages were activated via intraspinal injections of zymosan, a potent inflammatory stimulus known to increase axon growth and cause neurotoxicity. Using this approach, a significant increase in axon growth up to macrophage foci was evident. Within and adjacent to macrophages, DRG and spinal cord axons were destroyed. Macrophage toxicity became more evident when zymosan was injected closer to DRG soma. Under these conditions, DRG neurons were killed or their ability to extend axons was dramatically impaired. The concurrent induction of pro-regenerative and neurotoxic functions in zymosan-activated macrophages (ZAMs) was confirmed in vitro using DRG and cortical neurons. Importantly, the ability of ZAMs to stimulate axon growth was transient; prolonged exposure to factors produced by ZAMs enhanced cell death and impaired axon growth in surviving neurons. LPS, another potent macrophage activator, elicited a florid macrophage response but without enhancing axon growth or notable toxicity. Together, these data show that a single mode of activation endows macrophages with the ability to simultaneously promote axon regeneration and cell killing.
Macrophages Promote Axon Regeneration with Concurrent Neurotoxicity
2009-03-25
Activated macrophages can promote regeneration of CNS axons. However, macrophages also release factors that kill neurons. These opposing functions are likely induced simultaneously but are rarely...Full Text Available
Full Text Available.BackgroundAfter peripheral nerve injury, spontaneous ectopic activity arising from the peripheral axons plays an important role in inducing central sensitization and neuropathic pain. Recent evidence indicates that activation of spinal cord microglia also contributes to the development of neuropathic pain. In particular, activation of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) in spinal microglia is required for the development of mechanical allodynia. However, activity-dependent activation of microglia after nerve injury has not been fully addressed. To determine whether spontaneous activity from C- or A-fibers is required for microglial activation, we used resiniferatoxin (RTX) to block the conduction of transient receptor potential vanilloid subtype 1 (TRPV1) positive fibers (mostly C- and Aδ-fibers) and bupivacaine microspheres to block all fibers of the sciatic nerve in rats before spared nerve injury (SNI), and observed spinal microglial changes 2 days later.ResultsSNI induced robust mechanical allodynia and p38 activation in spinal microglia. SNI also induced marked cell proliferation in the spinal cord, and all the proliferating cells (BrdU+) were microglia (Iba1+). Bupivacaine induced a complete sensory and motor blockade and also significantly inhibited p38 activation and microglial proliferation in the spinal cord. In contrast, and although it produced an efficient nociceptive block, RTX failed to inhibit p38 activation and microglial proliferation in the spinal cord.Conclusion(1) Blocking peripheral input in TRPV1-positive fibers (presumably C-fibers) is not enough to prevent nerve injury-induced spinal microglial activation. (2) Peripheral input from large myelinated fibers is important for microglial activation. (3) Microglial activation is associated with mechanical allodynia.
BackgroundAfter peripheral nerve injury, spontaneous ectopic activity arising from the peripheral axons plays an important role in inducing central sensitization and neuropathic...Full Text Available
KIF4 Mediates Anterograde Translocation and Positioning of Ribosomal Constituents to Axons*S⃞
2009-04-03
In this study, we have used a combination of biochemical and molecular biology techniques to demonstrate that the C-terminal tail domain of KIF4 directly interacts with P0, a major protein component...Full Text Available
KIF4 Mediates Anterograde Translocation and Positioning of Ribosomal Constituents to Axons*S⃞
2009-04-03
Full Text Available.In this study, we have used a combination of biochemical and molecular biology techniques to demonstrate that the C-terminal tail domain of KIF4 directly interacts with P0, a major protein component of ribosomes. Besides, in dorsal root ganglion neurons, KIF4 and P0, as well as other ribosomal constituents, colocalize in clusters distributed along axons and neuritic tips. RNA interference suppression of KIF4 or expression of KIF4 variants lacking the tail domain or mutations of the ATP-binding site result in accumulation of P0 and other ribosomal proteins at the cell body and in their disappearance from axons. Our results also show one additional function for KIF4 involving an Ezrin-Radixin-Moesin-like domain in the second coiled-coiled region of KIF4. Expression of a KIF4 mutant lacking this domain abolishes the clustering of ribosomal constituents and prevents the anterograde translocation of the cell adhesion molecule L1. Taken together, the present results suggest that by binding to P0 through its tail domain and by using its motor activity, KIF4 is involved in the anterograde trafficking of ribosomal constituents to axons and that by means of its Ezrin-Radixin-Moesin-like domain interacts and transports L1.
1994-12-31
C-Fos protein expression was studied in the rat striatum after gamma or mixed (neutron-gamma) irradiation. No effect of irradiation was observed, at the doses and times studied. (author). 9 refs.
1995-12-31
Classically, radiation injuries results in a peripheral inflammatory process, and we have previously observed an early systemic interleukin 6 (IL-6) release following whole-body irradiation. Besides, we have demonstrated an early decrease of rat or primate brain acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity a gamma exposure. The object of the present study is to find possible IL-6 systemic effects on the brain AChE activity. We show that, though intravenous (i.v.) or intra-cerebro-ventricular (ICV) injection of IL-6 can induce a drop in rat brain AChE activity, this cytokine induces only a slight decrease of the AChE release in cultured brain cells. (author). 3 refs.
Impairing the Mitochondrial Fission and Fusion Balance: A New Mechanism of Neurodegeneration
2008-12-01
Mitochondrial dysfunction is a common characteristic of all neurodegenerative diseases. However, the cause of this dysfunction remains a mystery. Here, we discuss the potential role of mitochondrial...Full Text Available
Impairing the Mitochondrial Fission and Fusion Balance: A New Mechanism of Neurodegeneration
2008-12-01
Full Text Available.Mitochondrial dysfunction is a common characteristic of all neurodegenerative diseases. However, the cause of this dysfunction remains a mystery. Here, we discuss the potential role of mitochondrial fission and fusion in the onset and progression of neurodegenerative diseases. Specifically, we propose that an imbalance in mitochondrial fission and fusion may underlie both familial and sporadic neurodegenerative disorders. There is substantial evidence that links disruption of the mitochondrial fission and fusion equilibrium, resulting in abnormally long or short mitochondria, to neurodegeneration. First, hereditary mutations in the mitochondrial fusion GTPases optic atrophy-1 (OPA1) and mitofusin-2 (Mfn2) cause neuropathies in humans. In addition, recent findings report increased mitochondrial fission in Parkinson's disease (PD) models and induction of mitochondrial fission by two proteins, PTEN-induced kinase 1 (PINK1) and Parkin, which are mutant in familial forms of PD. Furthermore, mutant huntingtin, the disease-causing protein in Huntington's disease (HD), alters mitochondrial morphology and dynamics. Rotenone, a pesticide and inducer of PD symptoms, and amyloid-β (Aβ) peptide, which is causally linked to Alzheimer's disease (AD), initiate mitochondrial fission. Finally, mitochondrial fission is an early event in ischemic stroke and diabetic neuropathies. In sum, a growing body of research suggests that a better understanding of mitochondrial fission and fusion and the regulatory factors involved may lead to improved treatments and cures for neurodegenerative diseases.
IL-1{beta} promotes neurite outgrowth by deactivating RhoA via p38 MAPK pathway
Expression of the pro-inflammatory cytokine interleukin-1 beta (IL-1{beta}) is increased following the nervous system injury. Generally IL-1{beta} induces inflammation, leading to neural degeneration, while several neuropoietic effects have also been reported. Although neurite outgrowth is an important step in nerve regeneration, whether IL-1{beta} takes advantages on it is unclear. Now we examine how it affects neurite outgrowth. Following sciatic nerve injury, expression of IL-1{beta} is increased in Schwann cells around the site of injury, peaking 1 day after injury. In dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons and cerebellar granule neurons (CGNs), neurite outgrowth is inhibited by the addition of myelin-associated glycoprotein (MAG), activating RhoA. IL-1{beta} overcomes MAG-induced neurite outgrowth inhibition, by deactivating RhoA. Intracellular signaling experiments reveal that p38 MAPK, and not nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-{kappa}B), mediated this effect. These findings suggest that IL-1{beta} may contribute to nerve regeneration by promoting neurite outgrowth following nerve injury.
IL-1beta promotes neurite outgrowth by deactivating RhoA via p38 MAPK pathway
2008-01-01
Expression of the pro-inflammatory cytokine interleukin-1 beta (IL-1beta) is increased following the nervous system injury. Generally IL-1beta induces inflammation, leading to neural degeneration, while several neuropoietic effects have also been reported. Although neurite outgrowth is an important step in nerve regeneration, whether IL-1beta takes advantages on it is unclear. Now we examine how it affects neurite outgrowth. Following sciatic nerve injury, expression of IL-1beta is increased in Schwann cells around the site of injury, peaking 1 day after injury. In dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons and cerebellar granule neurons (CGNs), neurite outgrowth is inhibited by the addition of myelin-associated glycoprotein (MAG), activating RhoA. IL-1beta overcomes MAG-induced neurite outgrowth ... >>
IFRD1 Is a Candidate Gene for SMNA on Chromosome 7q22-q23
2009-05-15
We have established strong linkage evidence that supports mapping autosomal-dominant sensory/motor neuropathy with ataxia (SMNA) to chromosome 7q22-q32. SMNA is a rare neurological disorder whose phenotype...Full Text Available
IFRD1 Is a Candidate Gene for SMNA on Chromosome 7q22-q23
2009-05-15
Full Text Available.We have established strong linkage evidence that supports mapping autosomal-dominant sensory/motor neuropathy with ataxia (SMNA) to chromosome 7q22-q32. SMNA is a rare neurological disorder whose phenotype encompasses both the central and the peripheral nervous system. In order to identify a gene responsible for SMNA, we have undertaken a comprehensive genomic evaluation of the region of linkage, including evaluation for repeat expansion and small deletions or duplications, capillary sequencing of candidate genes, and massively parallel sequencing of all coding exons. We excluded repeat expansion and small deletions or duplications as causative, and through microarray-based hybrid capture and massively parallel short-read sequencing, we identified a nonsynonymous variant in the human interferon-related developmental regulator gene 1 (IFRD1) as a disease-causing candidate. Sequence conservation, animal models, and protein structure evaluation support the involvement of IFRD1 in SMNA. Mutation analysis of IFRD1 in additional patients with similar phenotypes is needed for demonstration of causality and further evaluation of its importance in neurological diseases.
1994-12-31
Inflammation is a frequent radiation-induced damage involved in the injury after therapeutic thoracic irradiation. In this study, we investigated the inflammatory cytokines regulation after in vitro monocytes/macrophages irradiation. Semi-quantitative RT-PCR revealed that expression of interleukin-1{beta} (IL-1 {beta}), interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-{alpha} (TNF{alpha}) genes were increased 2 hours after in vitro irradiation in 24 h-differentiated monocytes. Assays in supernatants of monocytes demonstrated a maximum concentration of IL-1 {beta} 2 hours after irradiation as well as a constant increase of IL-6 between 30 minutes and 24 hours post-irradiation. (author). 4 refs.
FTIR-Microspectroscopy of Prion-Infected Nervous Tissue
The family of transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSE), also termed prion diseases, is a group of fatal, neurodegenerative diseases characterized by the accumulation of a misfolded protein, the disease-associated prion protein PrPSc. This glycoprotein differs in secondary structure from its normal, cellular isoform PrPC, which is physiologically expressed mostly by neurons. Scrapie is a prion disease first described in the 18th century in sheep and goats, and has been established as a model in rodents to study the pathogenesis and pathology of prion diseases. Assuming a multitude of molecular parameters change in the tissue in the course of the disease, FTIR microspectroscopy has been proposed as a valuable new method to study and identify prion-affected tissues due to its ability to detect a variety of changes in molecular structure and composition simultaneously. This paper reviews and discusses results from previous FTIR microspectroscopic studies on nervous tissue of scrapie-infected hamsters in the context of histological and molecular alterations known from conventional pathogenesis studies. In particular, data from studies reporting on disease-specific changes of protein structure characteristics, and also results of a recent study on hamster dorsal root ganglia (DRG) are discussed. These data include an illustration on how the application of a brilliant IR synchrotron light source enables the in situ investigation of localized changes in protein structure and composition in nervous cells or tissue due to PrPSc deposition, and a demonstration on how the IR spectral information can be correlated with results of complementary studies using immunohistochemistry and x-ray fluorescence techniques. Using IR microspectroscopy, some neurons exhibited a high accumulation of disease-associated prion protein evidenced by an increased amount of beta-sheet at narrow regions in or around the infected nervous cells. However, not all neurons from terminally diseased hamsters showed PrPSc deposition. Generally, the average spectral differences between all control and diseased DRG spectra are small but consistent as demonstrated by independent experiments. Along with studies on the purified misfolded prion protein, these data suggest that synchrotron FTIR microspectroscopy is capable of detecting the misfolded prion protein in situ without the necessity of immunostaining or purification procedures.
FTIR-Microspectroscopy of Prion-Infected Nervous Tissue
2006-01-01
The family of transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSE), also termed prion diseases, is a group of fatal, neurodegenerative diseases characterized by the accumulation of a misfolded protein, the disease-associated prion protein PrPSc. This glycoprotein differs in secondary structure from its normal, cellular isoform PrPC, which is physiologically expressed mostly by neurons. Scrapie is a prion disease first described in the 18th century in sheep and goats, and has been established as a model in rodents to study the pathogenesis and pathology of prion diseases. Assuming a multitude of molecular parameters change in the tissue in the course of the disease, FTIR microspectroscopy has been proposed as a valuable new method to study and identify prion-affected tissues due to its ability to detect a variety of changes in molecular structure and composition simultaneously. This paper reviews and discusses results from previous FTIR microspectroscopic studies on nervous tissue of scrapie-infected hamsters in the context of histological and molecular alterations known from conventional pathogenesis studies. In particular, data from studies reporting on disease-specific changes of protein structure characteristics, and also results of a recent study on hamster dorsal root ganglia (DRG) are discussed. These data include an illustration on how the application of a brilliant IR synchrotron light source enables the in situ investigation of localized changes in protein structure and composition in nervous cells or tissue due to PrPSc deposition, and a demonstration on how the IR spectral information can be correlated with results of complementary studies using immunohistochemistry and x-ray fluorescence techniques. Using IR microspectroscopy, some neurons exhibited a high accumulation of disease-associated prion protein evidenced by an increased amount of beta-sheet at narrow regions in or around the infected nervous cells. However, not all neurons from terminally diseased hamsters showed PrPSc deposition. Generally, the average spectral differences between all control and diseased DRG spectra are small but consistent as demonstrated by independent experiments. Along with studies on the purified misfolded prion protein, these data suggest that synchrotron FTIR microspectroscopy is capable of detecting the misfolded prion protein in situ without the necessity of immunostaining or purification procedures.
Evidence for a role of NTS2 receptors in the modulation of tonic pain sensitivity
Full Text Available.BackgroundCentral neurotensin (NT) administration results in a naloxone-insensitive antinociceptive response in animal models of acute and persistent pain. Both NTS1 and NTS2 receptors were shown to be required for different aspects of NT-induced analgesia. We recently demonstrated that NTS2 receptors were extensively associated with ascending nociceptive pathways, both at the level of the dorsal root ganglia and of the spinal dorsal horn. Then, we found that spinally administered NTS2-selective agonists induced dose-dependent antinociceptive responses in the acute tail-flick test. In the present study, we therefore investigated whether activation of spinal NTS2 receptors suppressed the persistent inflammatory pain symptoms observed after intraplantar injection of formalin.ResultsWe first demonstrated that spinally administered NT and NT69L agonists, which bind to both NTS1 and NTS2 receptors, significantly reduced pain-evoked responses during the inflammatory phase of the formalin test. Accordingly, pretreatment with the NTS2-selective analogs JMV-431 and levocabastine was effective in inhibiting the aversive behaviors induced by formalin. With resolution at the single-cell level, we also found that activation of spinal NTS2 receptors reduced formalin-induced c-fos expression in dorsal horn neurons. However, our results also suggest that NTS2-selective agonists and NTS1/NTS2 mixed compounds differently modulated the early (21–39 min) and late (40–60 min) tonic phase 2 and recruited endogenous pain inhibitory mechanisms integrated at different levels of the central nervous system. Indeed, while non-selective drugs suppressed pain-related behaviors activity in both part of phase 2, intrathecal injection of NTS2-selective agonists was only efficient in reducing pain during the late phase 2. Furthermore, assessment of the stereotypic pain behaviors of lifting, shaking, licking and biting to formalin also revealed that unlike non-discriminative NTS1/NTS2 analogs reversing all nociceptive endpoint behaviors, pure NTS2 agonists specifically inhibited paw lifting, supporting a role of NTS2 in spinal modulation of persistent nociception.ConclusionThe present study provides the first demonstration that activation of NTS2 receptors produces analgesia in the persistent inflammatory pain model of formalin. The dichotomy between these two classes of compounds also indicates that both NTS1 and NTS2 receptors are involved in tonic pain inhibition and implies that these two NT receptors modulate the pain-induced behavioral responses by acting on distinct spinal and/or supraspinal neural circuits. In conclusion, development of NT agonists targeting both NTS1 and NTS2 receptors could be useful for chronic pain management.
Evidence for a role of NTS2 receptors in the modulation of tonic pain sensitivity
BackgroundCentral neurotensin (NT) administration results in a naloxone-insensitive antinociceptive response in animal models of acute and persistent pain. Both NTS1 and NTS2 receptors...Full Text Available
Full Text Available.BackgroundNeuropathic pain (NP) is partially mediated by neuroinflammatory mechanisms, and also modulates local neurogenic inflammation. Dietary lipids, in particular the total amount and relative proportions of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) of the ω-3 and ω-6 families, have been reported to modify the threshold for thermal and mechanical allodynia in the partial sciatic nerve ligation model of NP in rats. The effects of dietary lipids on other popular NP models, such as the chronic constriction injury (CCI), have not yet been examined. It is also unknown whether dietary PUFAs exert any effect on the capsaicin (CAP)-induced neurogenic inflammation under control or NP conditions. In this study we investigated these interrelated phenomena in the trigeminal territory, which has been much less explored, and for which not all data derived from limb nerves can be directly applied.ResultsWe studied the effects of a CCI of the infraorbital nerve (IoN) on the development of mechanical allodynia and CAP-induced plasma extravasation in rats fed either a regular diet (RD), or a modified diet (MD) with much lower total content and ω-3:ω-6 ratio of PUFAs. In rats kept on MD, mechanical allodynia following CCI-IoN was more pronounced and developed earlier. Extravasation was substantially increased in naive rats fed MD, and displayed differential diet-depending changes one and four weeks after CCI-IoN. When compared with basal levels (in naive and/or sham cases), the net effect of CCI-IoN on ipsilateral extravasation was a reduction in the MD group, but an increase in the RD group, effectively neutralizing the original intergroup differences.ConclusionIn summary, PUFA intake reduces CAP-induced neurogenic plasma extravasation in the trigeminal territory, and their removal significantly alters the mechanical allodynia and the plasma extravasation that result from a unilateral CCI-IoN. It is likely that this "protective" effect of dietary lipids is temporary. Also, the presence of contralateral effects of CCI-IoN precludes using the contralateral side as control.
BackgroundNeuropathic pain (NP) is partially mediated by neuroinflammatory mechanisms, and also modulates local neurogenic inflammation. Dietary lipids, in particular the total amount...Full Text Available
Effects of Substrate and Co-Culture on Neural Progenitor Cell Differentiation
In recent years the study of stem and progenitor cells has moved to the forefront of research. Since the isolation of human hematopoietic stem cells in 1988 and the subsequent discovery of a self renewing population of multipotent cells in many tissues, many researchers have envisioned a better understanding of development and potential clinical usage in intractable diseases. Both these goals, however, depend on a solid understanding of the intracellular and extracellular forces that cause stem cells to differentiate to a specific cell fate. Many diseases of large scale cell loss have been suggested as candidates for stem cell based treatments. It is proposed that replacing the function of the damaged or defective cells by specific differentiation of stem or progenitor cells could treat the disease. Before cells can be directed to specific lineages, the mechanisms of differentiation must be better understood. Differentiation in vivo is an intensively complex system that is difficult to study. The goal of this research is to develop further understanding of the effects of soluble and extracellular matrix (ECM) cues on the differentiation of neural progenitor cells with the use of a simplified in vitro culture system. Specific research objectives are to study the differentiation of neural progenitor cells in response to astrocyte conditioned medium and protein substrate composition and concentration. In an effort to reveal the mechanism of the conditioned medium interaction, a test for the presence of a feedback loop between progenitor cells and astrocytes is presented along with an examination of conditioned medium storage temperature, which can reveal enzymatic dependencies. An examination of protein substrate composition and concentration will help to reveal the role of any ECM interactions on differentiation. This thesis is organized into a literature review covering recent advances in use of external modulators of differentiation such as surface coatings, co-culture, and soluble factors present in the medium in stem and progenitor cell research followed by a chapter covering the effects of astrocyte conditioned medium and protein substrate composition and concentration on progenitor cell differentiation. Future work is discussed and an appendix presented.
Effects of Substrate and Co-Culture on Neural Progenitor Cell Differentiation
2008-08-18
In recent years the study of stem and progenitor cells has moved to the forefront of research. Since the isolation of human hematopoietic stem cells in 1988 and the subsequent discovery of a self renewing population of multipotent cells in many tissues, many researchers have envisioned a better understanding of development and potential clinical usage in intractable diseases. Both these goals, however, depend on a solid understanding of the intracellular and extracellular forces that cause stem cells to differentiate to a specific cell fate. Many diseases of large scale cell loss have been suggested as candidates for stem cell based treatments. It is proposed that replacing the function of the damaged or defective cells by specific differentiation of stem or progenitor cells could treat the disease. Before cells can be directed to specific lineages, the mechanisms of differentiation must be better understood. Differentiation in vivo is an intensively complex system that is difficult to study. The goal of this research is to develop further understanding of the effects of soluble and extracellular matrix (ECM) cues on the differentiation of neural progenitor cells with the use of a simplified in vitro culture system. Specific research objectives are to study the differentiation of neural progenitor cells in response to astrocyte conditioned medium and protein substrate composition and concentration. In an effort to reveal the mechanism of the conditioned medium interaction, a test for the presence of a feedback loop between progenitor cells and astrocytes is presented along with an examination of conditioned medium storage temperature, which can reveal enzymatic dependencies. An examination of protein substrate composition and concentration will help to reveal the role of any ECM interactions on differentiation. This thesis is organized into a literature review covering recent advances in use of external modulators of differentiation such as surface coatings, co-culture, and soluble factors present in the medium in stem and progenitor cell research followed by a chapter covering the effects of astrocyte conditioned medium and protein substrate composition and concentration on progenitor cell differentiation. Future work is discussed and an appendix presented.
1994-12-31
Dermal equivalents have been treated by single doses of gamma irradiation of 10, 20, 30 and 50 Gray. Numerations at different times show a dose and time dependant diminution of cellular population. This diminution is histologically observed in dermal part of reconstituted skin, in association with cellular and functional alterations of fibroblast cells. Modifications of epidermal epithelia are also noted in some reconstituted skin. This model would be useful to apprehend the effect of a dermal irradiation lesion on the later epidermization. (author). 4 refs.
1994-12-31
The isolated mesencephalic and striatal cells were irradiated in a dose-range of 0.25 to 3 Gy followed by 3 day of culture. The proportion of monopolar, bipolar, tripolar and multipolar cell population was not obviously modified by irradiation. The processes length was similar to controls, except after 3 Gy exposure, for monopolar and bipolar mesencephalic cells and the tripolar striatal cells where it was increased. In these populations, only cells with long processes seemed to survive. (author). 2 refs.
Dystonin/Bpag1 is a necessary endoplasmic reticulum/nuclear envelope protein in sensory neurons
Dystonin/Bpag1 proteins are cytoskeletal linkers whose loss of function in mice results in a hereditary sensory neuropathy with a progressive loss of limb coordination starting in the second week of life. These mice, named dystonia musculorum (dt), succumb to the disease and die of unknown causes prior to sexual maturity. Previous evidence indicated that cytoskeletal defects in the axon are a primary cause of dt neurodegeneration. However, more recent data suggests that other factors may be equally important contributors to the disease process. In the present study, we demonstrate perikaryal defects in dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons at stages preceding the onset of loss of limb coordination in dt mice. Abnormalities include alterations in endoplasmic reticulum (ER) chaperone protein expression, indicative of an ER stress response. Dystonin in sensory neurons localized in association with the ER and nuclear envelope (NE). A fusion protein ofthe dystonin-a2 isoform, which harbors an N-terminal transmembrane domain, associated with and reorganized the ER in cell culture. This isoform also interacts with the NE protein nesprin-3{alpha}, but not nesprin-3{beta}. Defects in dt mice, as demonstrated here, may ultimately result in pathogenesis involving ER dysfunction and contribute significantly to the dt phenotype.
Dystonin/Bpag1 is a necessary endoplasmic reticulum/nuclear envelope protein in sensory neurons
2008-01-01
Dystonin/Bpag1 proteins are cytoskeletal linkers whose loss of function in mice results in a hereditary sensory neuropathy with a progressive loss of limb coordination starting in the second week of life. These mice, named dystonia musculorum (dt), succumb to the disease and die of unknown causes prior to sexual maturity. Previous evidence indicated that cytoskeletal defects in the axon are a primary cause of dt neurodegeneration. However, more recent data suggests that other factors may be equally important contributors to the disease process. In the present study, we demonstrate perikaryal defects in dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons at stages preceding the onset of loss of limb coordination in dt mice. Abnormalities include alterations in endoplasmic reticulum (ER) chaperone protein expression, indicative of an ER stress response. Dystonin in sensory neurons ... >>
1995-12-31
Inflammation is a frequent radiation-induced damage, especially after therapeutic irradiation. In this study, we have investigated, the inflammatory cytokine regulation after ionizing irradiation of monocytes/macrophages from four donors. Semi-quantitative RT-PCR revealed, after in vitro 24 h-differentiated monocytes irradiation between 5 to 40 Gy, no induction of interleukin-I{beta} (IL I{beta}), interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-{alpha} (TNF-{alpha} mRNA) expression. Moreover, protein quantitation shows no significant increase of post-irradiation secretion. (author). 6 refs.
1994-12-31
Total body irradiation associated or not with r-hIL-6 treatment a relation between TGF-{beta}1 and TGF-{beta}2 blood levels and platelets count. During radio-induced thrombocytopenia, by decreasing its ability to inhibit proliferation of stem cells and megakaryocytopoiesis, the TGF-{beta} falling induced a favorable condition for hematopoietic recovery. (author). 5 refs.
1994-12-31
Acute total body irradiation in pigs, with a lethal dose of either gamma or mixed gamma-neutron radiation, induced similar plasmatic coagulation disorders as those observed in baboons. These data validated pathophysiological hypothesis which were developed during previous studies, but do not support the idea of a possible species specific radiosensitivity. (author). 3 refs.
Center for Cancer Research - Staff Pages
Dr. Oppenheim obtained his M.D. degree from the Columbia College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, trained as a clinical associate at the National Cancer Institute (NCI), Bethesda, Maryland, and was a postdoctoral fellow at the University of Birmingham, England, in immunology. He returned to the National Institute of Dental Research and subsequently headed the Section of Cellular Immunology there and, since 1983, has been head of the Laboratory of Molecular Immunoregulation, NCI-Frederick.
Center for Cancer Research - Staff Pages
Dr. Oppenheim obtained his M.D. degree from the Columbia College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, trained as a clinical associate at the National Cancer Institute (NCI), Bethesda, Maryland, and was a postdoctoral fellow at the University of Birmingham, England, in immunology. He returned to the National Institute of Dental Research and subsequently headed the Section of Cellular Immunology there and, since 1983, has been head of the Laboratory of Molecular Immunoregulation, NCI-Frederick.
Full Text Available.BackgroundThe kinin B1 receptor (B1R) is upregulated by pro-inflammatory cytokines, bacterial endotoxins and hyperglycaemia-induced oxidative stress. In animal models of diabetes, it contributes to pain polyneuropathy. This study aims at defining the cellular localization of B1R in thoracic spinal cord of type 1 diabetic rats by confocal microscopy with the use of a fluorescent agonist, [Nα-Bodipy]-des-Arg9-BK (BdABK) and selective antibodies.MethodsDiabetes was induced by streptozotocin (STZ; 65 mg/kg, i.p.). Four days post-STZ treatment, B1R expression was confirmed by quantitative real-time PCR and autoradiography. The B1R selectivity of BdABK was determined by assessing its ability to displace B1R [125I]-HPP-desArg10-Hoe140 and B2R [125I]-HPP-Hoe 140 radioligands. The in vivo activity of BdABK was also evaluated on thermal hyperalgesia.ResultsB1R was increased by 18-fold (mRNA) and 2.7-fold (binding sites) in the thoracic spinal cord of STZ-treated rats when compared to control. BdABK failed to displace the B2R radioligand but displaced the B1R radioligand (IC50 = 5.3 nM). In comparison, IC50 values of B1R selective antagonist R-715 and B1R agonist des-Arg9-BK were 4.3 nM and 19 nM, respectively. Intraperitoneal BdABK and des-Arg9-BK elicited dose-dependent thermal hyperalgesia in STZ-treated rats but not in control rats. The B1R fluorescent agonist was co-localized with immunomarkers of microglia, astrocytes and sensory C fibers in the spinal cord of STZ-treated rats.ConclusionThe induction and up-regulation of B1R in glial and sensory cells of the spinal cord in STZ-diabetic rats reinforce the idea that kinin B1R is an important target for drug development in pain processes.
BackgroundThe kinin B1 receptor (B1R) is upregulated by pro-inflammatory cytokines, bacterial endotoxins and hyperglycaemia-induced oxidative stress. In animal...Full Text Available
2008-12-10
In rodents, the adult subventricular zone (SVZ) generates neuroblasts which migrate to the olfactory bulb (OB) and differentiate into interneurons. Recent work suggests that the neurotrophin...Full Text Available
2008-12-10
Full Text Available.In rodents, the adult subventricular zone (SVZ) generates neuroblasts which migrate to the olfactory bulb (OB) and differentiate into interneurons. Recent work suggests that the neurotrophin Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) can enhance adult SVZ neurogenesis, but the mechanism by which it acts is unknown. Here, we analyzed the role of BDNF and its receptor TrkB in adult SVZ neurogenesis. We found that TrkB is the most prominent neurotrophin receptor in the mouse SVZ, but only the truncated, kinase-negative isoform (TrkB-TR) was detected. TrkB-TR is expressed in SVZ astrocytes and ependymal cells, but not in neuroblasts. TrkB mutants have reduced SVZ proliferation and survival and fewer new OB neurons. To test if this effect is cell-autonomous, we grafted SVZ cells from TrkB knockout mice (TrkB-KO) into the SVZ of wild-type mice (WT). Grafted progenitors generated neuroblasts that migrated to the OB in the absence of TrkB. The survival and differentiation of granular interneurons and Calbindin+ periglomerular interneurons seemed unaffected by the loss of TrkB, while dopaminergic periglomerular neurons were reduced. Intra-ventricular infusion of BDNF yielded different results depending on the animal species, having no effect on neuron production from mouse SVZ, while decreasing it in rats. Interestingly, mice and rats also differ in their expression of the neurotrophin receptor, p75. Our results indicate that TrkB is not essential for adult SVZ neurogenesis and do not support the current view that delivering BDNF to the SVZ can enhance adult neurogenesis.
Axiontv.com-Portable DVD Player, Handheld LCD TVs, LCD + DVD Combos
Axiontv.com-LCD,tv,televisions,portable,handheld,CRT,DVD,axion,action,HD,HDTV,digital,display,monitor,color,personal,video,audio,CE,OEM,ODM,monitor,computer ...
Best buy price Computer Parts, PC Components, notebook computer, computer desktop best price guarantee at Axiontech.com.
Axion Project Incubation Status - Apache Incubator
For general project status, see the Axion project website. ... The axion project never moved to the ASF from tigris.org. 2003-12-19: The Apache Incubator ...
Axion - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
The axion is a hypothetical elementary particle postulated by Peccei-Quinn theory in 1977 to resolve the strong-CP problem in quantum chromodynamics (QCD). ...
1994-12-31
Ondansetron and granisetron were tested as antiemetics in cynomolgus macaques weighing 4 kg and submitted to a neutron-gamma irradiation with a high neutronic component. Compounds were delivered by oral way, each administration dose being 4 mg of ondansetron or 1 mg of granisetron. The effect was complete when were delivered before and after the irradiation. It was incomplete when there was a single administration be fore or after the exposure. No adverse side-effects were noted. (author). 4 refs.
An Enhancer Near ISL1 and an Ultraconserved Exon of PCBP2 areDerived from a Retroposon
Hundreds of highly conserved distal cis-regulatory elementshave been characterized to date in vertebrate genomes1. Many thousandsmore are predicted based on comparative genomics2,3. Yet, in starkcontrast to the genes they regulate, virtually none of these regions canbe traced using sequence similarity in invertebrates, leaving theirevolutionary origin obscure. Here we show that a class of conserved,primarily non-coding regions in tetrapods originated from a novel shortinterspersed repetitive element (SINE) retroposon family that was activein Sarcopterygii (lobe-finned fishes and terrestrial vertebrates) in theSilurian at least 410 Mya4, and, remarkably, appears to be recentlyactive in the "living fossil" Indonesian coelacanth, Latimeriamenadoensis. We show that one copy is a distal enhancer, located 500kbfrom the neuro-developmental gene ISL1. Several others represent new,possibly regulatory, alternatively spliced exons in the middle ofpre-existing Sarcopterygian genes. One of these is the>200bpultraconserved region5, 100 percent identical in mammals, and 80 percentidentical to the coelacanth SINE, that contains a 31aa alternativelyspliced exon of the mRNA processing gene PCBP26. These add to a growinglist of examples7 in which relics of transposable elements have acquireda function that serves their host, a process termed "exaptation"8, andprovide an origin for at least some of the highly-conservedvertebrate-specific genomic sequences recently discovered usingcomparative genomics.
An Enhancer Near ISL1 and an Ultraconserved Exon of PCBP2 areDerived from a Retroposon
2005-11-27
Hundreds of highly conserved distal cis-regulatory elementshave been characterized to date in vertebrate genomes1. Many thousandsmore are predicted based on comparative genomics2,3. Yet, in starkcontrast to the genes they regulate, virtually none of these regions canbe traced using sequence similarity in invertebrates, leaving theirevolutionary origin obscure. Here we show that a class of conserved,primarily non-coding regions in tetrapods originated from a novel shortinterspersed repetitive element (SINE) retroposon family that was activein Sarcopterygii (lobe-finned fishes and terrestrial vertebrates) in theSilurian at least 410 Mya4, and, remarkably, appears to be recentlyactive in the "living fossil" Indonesian coelacanth, Latimeriamenadoensis. We show that one copy is a distal enhancer, located 500kbfrom the neuro-developmental gene ISL1. Several others represent new,possibly regulatory, alternatively spliced exons in the middle ofpre-existing Sarcopterygian genes. One of these is the>200bpultraconserved region5, 100 percent identical in mammals, and 80 percentidentical to the coelacanth SINE, that contains a 31aa alternativelyspliced exon of the mRNA processing gene PCBP26. These add to a growinglist of examples7 in which relics of transposable elements have acquireda function that serves their host, a process termed "exaptation"8, andprovide an origin for at least some of the highly-conservedvertebrate-specific genomic sequences recently discovered usingcomparative genomics.
1995-12-31
In rat aortic rings, we showed an increase in arterial tone during irradiation. This effect is acute reversible. This effect is only observed on pre-contracted rings and needs the integrity of vascular endothelium. The molecular mechanism of this effect is discussed. (author). 4 refs.
In my five years as the Director of the Advanced Photon Source (APS), I have been fortunate to see major growth in the scientific impact from the APS. This year I am particularly enthusiastic about prospects for our longer-term future. Every scientific instrument must remain at the cutting edge to flourish. Our plans for the next generation of APS--an APS upgrade--got seriously in gear this year with strong encouragement from our users and sponsors. The most promising avenue that has emerged is the energy-recovery linac (ERL) (see article on page xx), for which we are beginning serious R&D. The ERL{at}APS would offer revolutionary performance, especially for x-ray imaging and ultrafast science, while not seriously disrupting the existing user base. I am very proud of our accelerator physics and engineering staff, who not only keep the current APS at the forefront, but were able to greatly impress our international Machine Advisory Committee with the quality of their work on the possible upgrade option (see page xx). As we prepare for long-term major upgrades, our plans to develop and optimize all the sectors at APS in the near future are advancing. Several new beamlines saw first light this year, including a dedicated powder diffraction beamline (11-BM), two instruments for inelastic x-ray scattering at sector 30, and the Center for Nanoscale Materials (CNM) Nanoprobe beamline at sector 26. Our partnership in the first x-ray free-electron laser (LCLS) to be built at Stanford contributes to revolutionary growth in ultrafast science (see page xx), and we are developing a pulse chirping scheme to get ps pulses at sector 7 of the APS within a year or so. In this report, you will find selected highlights of scientific research at the APS from calendar year 2006. The highlighted work covers diverse disciplines, from fundamental to applied science. In the article on page xx you can see the direct impact of APS research on technology. Several new products have emerged from work at the APS, to complement the tremendous output of work in basic science, which often has payoff in technology but over decades rather than years. Highlights in this report also reflect the relevance of APS work to Department of Energy missions, for example a route to more efficient fuel cells (page xx mr-88-073113) addresses the energy challenge, and natural approaches to cleaning up the environment.
The expression of major cytoskeletal protein mRNAs was studied in adult rat dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons after crushing either their central or peripheral branch axons. mRNA levels in DRG neurons were examined by quantitative in situ hybridization with radiolabeled cDNA probes specific for the low-molecular-weight neurofilament protein (NF-L) and beta-tubulin. The large-sized (greater than 1000 microns 2) neurons which give rise to myelinated axons in lumbar ganglia (L4 and L5) were studied 1 d through 8 weeks after either dorsal root or sciatic nerve crush. NF-L and beta-tubulin mRNA levels in axotomized DRG neurons were compared to those in contralateral control DRG neurons, as well as to those in normal (completely untreated) DRG cells. In the case of NF-L mRNA, changes were observed after central as well as peripheral branch axotomy and the time course and magnitude of changes were similar after both types of axotomy. NF-L mRNA levels initially decreased (first 2 weeks after crush) and then began to return towards control levels at longer survival times. Similar, but less pronounced, changes in NF-L mRNA levels also occurred in contralateral DRG neurons (which were uninjured); the changes in contralateral neurons were not simply a result of surgical stress since no changes in NF-L mRNA levels were observed in sham-operated DRG neurons. In the case of tubulin mRNA, changes were observed after central as well as peripheral branch axotomy by in situ hybridization, but the time course and magnitude of changes were different after each type of axotomy.
1990-07-01
The expression of major cytoskeletal protein mRNAs was studied in adult rat dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons after crushing either their central or peripheral branch axons. mRNA levels in DRG neurons were examined by quantitative in situ hybridization with radiolabeled cDNA probes specific for the low-molecular-weight neurofilament protein (NF-L) and beta-tubulin. The large-sized (greater than 1000 microns 2) neurons which give rise to myelinated axons in lumbar ganglia (L4 and L5) were studied 1 d through 8 weeks after either dorsal root or sciatic nerve crush. NF-L and beta-tubulin mRNA levels in axotomized DRG neurons were compared to those in contralateral control DRG neurons, as well as to those in normal (completely untreated) DRG cells. In the case of NF-L mRNA, changes were observed after central as well as peripheral branch axotomy and the time course and magnitude of changes were similar after both types of axotomy. NF-L mRNA levels initially decreased (first 2 weeks after crush) and then began to return towards control levels at longer survival times. Similar, but less pronounced, changes in NF-L mRNA levels also occurred in contralateral DRG neurons (which were uninjured); the changes in contralateral neurons were not simply a result of surgical stress since no changes in NF-L mRNA levels were observed in sham-operated DRG neurons. In the case of tubulin mRNA, changes were observed after central as well as peripheral branch axotomy by in situ hybridization, but the time course and magnitude of changes were different after each type of axotomy.
1990-01-01
The expression of major cytoskeletal protein mRNAs was studied in adult rat dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons after crushing either their central or peripheral branch axons. mRNA levels in DRG neurons were examined by quantitative in situ hybridization with radiolabeled cDNA probes specific for the low-molecular-weight neurofilament protein (NF-L) and beta-tubulin. The large-sized (greater than 1000 microns 2) neurons which give rise to myelinated axons in lumbar ganglia (L4 and L5) were studied 1 d through 8 weeks after either dorsal root or sciatic nerve crush. NF-L and beta-tubulin mRNA levels in axotomized DRG neurons were compared to those in contralateral control DRG neurons, as well as to those in normal (completely untreated) DRG cells. In the case of NF-L mRNA, changes were observed after central as well as peripheral branch axotomy and the time course and ... >>
γ-Synucleinopathy: neurodegeneration associated with overexpression of the mouse protein
2009-05-15
The role of α-synuclein in pathogenesis of familial and idiopathic forms of Parkinson’s disease, and other human disorders known as α-synucleinopathies, is well established....Full Text Available
γ-Synucleinopathy: neurodegeneration associated with overexpression of the mouse protein
2009-05-15
Full Text Available.The role of α-synuclein in pathogenesis of familial and idiopathic forms of Parkinson’s disease, and other human disorders known as α-synucleinopathies, is well established. In contrast, the involvement of two other members of the synuclein family, β-synuclein and γ-synuclein, in the development and progression of neurodegeneration is poorly studied. However, there is a growing body of evidence that α-synuclein and β-synuclein have opposite neuropathophysiological effects. Unlike α-synuclein, overexpressed β-synuclein does not cause pathological changes in the nervous system of transgenic mice and even ameliorates the pathology caused by overexpressed α-synuclein. To assess the consequences of excess expression of the third family member, γ-synuclein, on the nervous system we generated transgenic mice expressing high levels of mouse γ-synuclein under control of Thy-1 promoter. These animals develop severe age- and transgene dose-dependent neuropathology, motor deficits and die prematurely. Histopathological changes include aggregation of γ-synuclein, accumulation of various inclusions in neuronal cell bodies and processes, and astrogliosis. These changes are seen throughout the nervous system but are most prominent in the spinal cord where they lead to loss of spinal motor neurons. Our data suggest that down-regulation of small heat shock protein HSPB1 and disintegration of neurofilament network play a role in motor neurons dysfunction and death. These findings demonstrate that γ-synuclein can be involved in neuropathophysiological changes and the death of susceptible neurons suggesting the necessity of further investigations of the potential role of this synuclein in disease.
Website Policies and Important Links Comments
 |
 |
 |
WorldWideScience.org is maintained by the
U.S. Department of Energy's
Office of Scientific and Technical Information as the Operating Agent
for the WorldWideScience Alliance.