Article
Biology
Peter R. Strege, Luke M. Cowan, Constanza Alcaino, Amelia Mazzone, Christopher A. Ahern, Lorin S. Milescu, Gianrico Farrugia, Arthur Beyder
Summary: Shear stress and patch suction can reversibly alter the kinetic properties and maximum current of NaChBac, suggesting it is mechanosensitive. Structural analysis reveals a large displacement of the intracellular gate, supporting the proposed mechanosensitive mechanism.
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Karl Josef Foehr, Michael Rapp, Michael Fauler, Thomas Zimmer, Bettina Jungwirth, David Alexander Christian Messerer
Summary: Aripiprazole has been identified as a potent blocker of the dominant voltage-gated sodium channel of heart muscle. Its interactions with the channel differ depending on the state, with weaker affinity for the resting state and stronger affinity for the inactivated state.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2022)
Article
Cell Biology
Adam Feher, Marianna Pocsi, Ferenc Papp, Tibor G. Szanto, Agota Csoti, Zsolt Fejes, Bela Nagy, Balazs Nemes, Zoltan Varga
Summary: This study identified multiple voltage-gated sodium channels in the plasma membrane of human B cells using electrophysiological and molecular biology methods. The detected sodium currents showed sensitivity between TTX-sensitive and TTX-insensitive channels, suggesting the co-existence of multiple Na(V)1 subtypes. The results also supported the functional role of these channels in shaping and maintaining the resting membrane potential.
Article
Physiology
Xin Wu, Yawei Li, Liang Hong
Summary: The voltage-gated sodium channel Na(v)1.5 is crucial for generating and propagating action potentials in cardiomyocytes. Mutations in Na(v)1.5 have been linked to various heart rhythm disorders. This study focused on an Asian-specific mutation called Na(v)1.5-P1090L, which was associated with long QT syndrome. The mutation disrupted the function of the sodium channel and could be reversed by treatment with mexiletine.
FRONTIERS IN PHYSIOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Lea Rethore, Joohee Park, Jerome Montnach, Sebastien Nicolas, Joseph Khoury, Elodie Le Seac'h, Kamel Mabrouk, Harold De Pomyers, Helene Tricoire-Leignel, Cesar Mattei, Daniel Henrion, Ziad Fajloun, Michel De Waard, Claire Legendre, Christian Legros
Summary: This study investigates the interaction between Na+ and Ca2+ channels in GH3b6 cells, revealing a crosstalk between Na-V and LTCC and providing new insights into the mode of action of neurotoxins.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2022)
Article
Neurosciences
Roman Dvorkin, Stephen D. Shea
Summary: The noradrenergic locus coeruleus (LC) plays an important role in social behavior by coordinating phasic activity with specific social events and communicating tonic activity throughout the brain.
JOURNAL OF NEUROSCIENCE
(2022)
Article
Biology
Go Kasuya, Koichi Nakajo
Summary: In this study, the researchers investigated the interaction between KCNE3 and KCNQ1 voltage sensors in the KCNQ1-KCNE3-calmodulin complex. They found that the distance between the S1 segment and KCNE3 is optimized to achieve constitutive activity. In addition, they identified mutant pairs of KCNQ1 and KCNE3 that partially restored constitutive activity when expressed together.
Article
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Claudia Sagheddu, Paola Devoto, Sonia Aroni, Pierluigi Saba, Marco Pistis, Gian Luigi Gessa
Summary: Experimental and clinical evidence suggests that a deficit of dopamine release and function in schizophrenia can be improved by the blockade of (2)-adrenoceptor and D-2-receptors. In rats, the activation of noradrenergic neurons in the locus coeruleus and dopaminergic neurons in the ventral tegmental area was studied when a(2)- and D-2-receptors were blocked. Additionally, the levels of noradrenaline, dopamine, and DOPAC in the medial prefrontal cortex were examined. The results indicate the importance of targeting LC noradrenergic neurons to improve dopamine deficit in neuropsychiatric pathologies.
FRONTIERS IN PHARMACOLOGY
(2023)
Review
Neurosciences
Gerard A. Marchal, Carol Ann Remme
Summary: In cardiomyocytes, the alpha-subunit of the cardiac voltage-gated Na+ channel (Na(V)1.5) plays a crucial role in the rapid depolarisation of the membrane potential, which is essential for cardiac excitability and electrical propagation. Dysfunctional Na(V)1.5 is associated with a high risk of arrhythmias and sudden cardiac death. However, developing therapeutic interventions targeting Na(V)1.5 has been challenging due to its complexity and diverse roles within the cardiomyocyte.
JOURNAL OF PHYSIOLOGY-LONDON
(2023)
Article
Endocrinology & Metabolism
Nils Korte, Greg James, Haoming You, Chanawee Hirunpattarasilp, Isabel Christie, Huma Sethi, David Attwell
Summary: Noradrenaline released from Locus coeruleus axons induces vascular contraction in arteriolar smooth muscle and capillary pericytes. This contraction is mediated via alpha(2) adrenergic receptors and does not elevate intracellular calcium levels. Activation of alpha(2) adrenergic receptors can stimulate pericyte contraction while blocking them reduces noradrenaline-induced pericyte contraction. These findings suggest that alpha(2) adrenergic receptors play a role in regulating cerebral blood flow and could be targeted for therapeutic purposes.
JOURNAL OF CEREBRAL BLOOD FLOW AND METABOLISM
(2023)
Article
Clinical Neurology
Marbella Quinonez, Marino DiFranco, Fenfen Wu, Stephen C. Cannon
Summary: Recurrent episodes of weakness in periodic paralysis are caused by intermittent loss of muscle fibre excitability. Retigabine, a potassium channel opener, can prevent the episodic loss of force and enhance recovery in mouse models of HypoPP. The protection and rescue effects of retigabine are well within the therapeutic window.
Article
Biology
Andrew McKinney, Ming Hu, Amber Hoskins, Arian Mohammadyar, Nabeeha Naeem, Junzhan Jing, Saumil S. Patel, Bhavin R. Sheth, Xiaolong Jiang, Joshua Johansen
Summary: This study conducted large-scale multipatch recordings of noradrenergic neurons in the locus coeruleus (LC) of adult mice to examine their morpho-electric properties and interactions. LC noradrenergic neurons were found to be diverse and could be classified into two major morpho-electric types. These neurons were connected via gap junction at a similar rate to their early developmental stage and other brain regions. Electrical connections primarily occurred between dendrites and were restricted to narrowly spaced pairs or small clusters of neurons of the same type. Additionally, chain-like organizational patterns of more than two electrically coupled cell pairs were often identified. The assembly of LC noradrenergic neurons follows a spatial and cell-type-specific wiring principle, possibly imposed by a unique chain-like rule.
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Annemarie Oertli, Susanne Rinne, Robin Moss, Stefan Kaeaeb, Gunnar Seemann, Britt-Maria Beckmann, Niels Decher
Summary: KCNQ1 mutations can lead to long QT syndrome, with different forms including LQT1, RWS, and JLNS. RWS is inherited in an autosomal dominant manner, while JLNS is autosomal recessive. This study identified a rare isolated LQTS caused by an autosomal recessive KCNQ1 mutation, with asymptomatic heterozygous family members.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2021)
Article
Neurosciences
Anna M. Lipkin, Margaret M. Cunniff, Perry W. E. Spratt, Stefan M. Lemke, Kevin J. Bender
Summary: The study revealed that in mouse layer 5 prefrontal pyramidal neurons, calcium channels were distributed differently, with Ca(V)3 channels leading to high-spot calcium influx in specific regions, while Ca(V)2 channels localized to non-hotspot areas.
JOURNAL OF NEUROSCIENCE
(2021)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Anna M. Olszewska, Adam K. Sieradzan, Piotr Bednarczyk, Adam Szewczyk, Michal A. Zmijewski
Summary: The study reveals that calcitriol can directly affect the activity of the mitochondrial potassium channel in human astrocytoma cells, suggesting its potential role in regulating mitochondrial function.
CELLULAR & MOLECULAR BIOLOGY LETTERS
(2022)
Article
Audiology & Speech-Language Pathology
Adelle Liebenberg, Alan M. Brichta, Valerie M. Nie, Sima Ahmadi, Carole L. James
Summary: Although the hearing threshold levels were lower in more recent years, this study showed that older workers (45-60 years) in Australian coal mines in New South Wales had clinically significant hearing loss. There was a higher prevalence of audiometric notches in male workers, with a notable proportion presenting with an audiometric notch at 4 kHz. Further research is needed to determine the nature of these notches and how to conserve the residual hearing of workers.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF AUDIOLOGY
(2021)
Article
Engineering, Electrical & Electronic
Connor P. Sherwood, Daniel C. Elkington, Michael R. Dickinson, Warwick J. Belcher, Paul C. Dastoor, Krishna Feron, Alan M. Brichta, Rebecca Lim, Matthew J. Griffith
Summary: The research demonstrates the potential application of using organic semiconductor devices as photocapacitors in neural interface technologies. By characterizing different device architectures and conducting related tests, the study explores the photoresponse mechanism, advantages, and limitations of these devices.
IEEE JOURNAL OF SELECTED TOPICS IN QUANTUM ELECTRONICS
(2021)
Article
Neurosciences
Rikki K. Quinn, Hannah R. Drury, Rebecca Lim, Robert J. Callister, Melissa A. Tadros
Summary: Sensory neurons in the developing human DRGs differentiate into distinct types during the late first and early second trimesters, with key gene expression showing temporal differences. There are significant differences in the expression of key signaling molecules for human DRG development compared to rodents, particularly in the expression of neurotrophins.
Article
Neurosciences
Serajul Khan, Alan M. Brichta, Americo A. Migliaccio
Summary: This study investigated the effect of ascorbate on the recovery of vestibulo-ocular reflex (VOR) after labyrinthectomy. The results showed that treatment with ascorbate reduced acute loss and aided in the recovery during the acute to chronic compensation stages. One possible mechanism is that ascorbate enhances the vestibulo-ocular reflex pathway, increasing the number and sensitivity of vestibular afferents.
JARO-JOURNAL OF THE ASSOCIATION FOR RESEARCH IN OTOLARYNGOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Neurosciences
David Lorincz, Lauren A. Poppi, Joseph C. Holt, Hannah R. Drury, Rebecca Lim, Alan M. Brichta
Summary: This article investigates the anatomy of the Efferent Vestibular System (EVS) in mice and compares it to the olivocochlear system. The study finds that the majority of EVN neurons in mice project to the contralateral eighth nerve, and the vestibular organs receive bilateral EVN innervation.
FRONTIERS IN NEURAL CIRCUITS
(2022)
Article
Neurosciences
Rikki K. Quinn, Hannah R. Drury, Ethan T. Cresswell, Melissa A. Tadros, Bryony A. Nayagam, Robert J. Callister, Alan M. Brichta, Rebecca Lim
Summary: Expression of sodium channel genes in the inner ear varies with age and organ type, with greater expression in the cochlea compared to the utricle and cristae ampullares. Developmental changes in Na+ currents in human fetal vestibular hair cells demonstrate consistency with those in other species, with a decrease in the number of cells exhibiting Na+ currents with gestational age. Understanding the timeline of ion channel gene expression and functional ion channel presence in the inner ear is crucial for regenerative technologies.
FRONTIERS IN NEUROSCIENCE
(2021)
Article
Neurosciences
Serajul Khan, Patrick P. Huebner, Alan M. Brichta, Americo A. Migliaccio
Summary: This study examines the relationship between adaptation and compensation mechanisms in the vestibulo-ocular reflex. The results suggest that compensation affects adaptation and that these two processes are separate but overlapping. Furthermore, vestibulo-ocular reflex adaptation training is a viable treatment strategy and augments the compensatory process.
JARO-JOURNAL OF THE ASSOCIATION FOR RESEARCH IN OTOLARYNGOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Audiology & Speech-Language Pathology
Adelle Liebenberg, Valerie M. Nie, Alan M. Brichta, Sima Ahmadi, Carole L. James
Summary: This study compared the hearing threshold levels of coal miners in New South Wales, Australia, to an otologically normal population described by the International Standards Organisation. The results showed that the median hearing threshold levels of the mining population were significantly worse compared to the normal population, especially for older workers at 4 kHz. These findings highlight the importance of implementing hearing conservation strategies in the mining industry to prevent further hearing loss.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF AUDIOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Neurosciences
I. M. Stitt, T. P. Wellings, H. R. Drury, P. Jobling, R. J. Callister, A. M. Brichta, R. Lim
Summary: This study investigates the characteristics of Deiters' neurons and non-Deiters' neurons within the lateral vestibular nucleus (LVN) and identifies specific features that distinguish Deiters' neurons. These features, including low input resistance, long axons, and strong GABAergic input, suggest that Deiters' neurons are well suited for encoding tonic signals for the vestibulospinal reflex.
JOURNAL OF NEUROPHYSIOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Varshini D. Venkata, M. Fairuz B. Jamaluddin, Jyoti Goad, Hannah R. Drury, Melissa A. Tadros, Rebecca Lim, Ajay Karakoti, Rachel O'Sullivan, Yvette Ius, Kenneth Jaaback, Pravin Nahar, Pradeep S. Tanwar
Summary: This study developed organoids from human fetal reproductive organs and compared them with adult organoids. The results showed that fetal organoids were different from adult organoids in terms of markers expression, appearance, histology, and proteomics. Transplantation of fetal organoids onto adult tissue scaffolds led to regeneration of adult epithelia. Suppression of Wnt signaling inhibited the regenerative ability of fetal organoids and caused anatomical defects in the mouse reproductive tract. Therefore, fetal organoids provide an important platform for studying human female reproductive tract development and diseases.
PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL ACADEMY OF SCIENCES OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
(2022)
Article
Geriatrics & Gerontology
Lauren A. Poppi, Mark J. Bigland, Ethan T. Cresswell, Hessam Tabatabaee, David Lorincz, Hannah R. Drury, Robert J. Callister, Joseph C. Holt, Rebecca Lim, Alan M. Brichta, Doug W. Smith
Summary: Cholinergic signaling in the peripheral vestibular sensory organs is vulnerable to aging processes, leading to molecular and functional age-related changes. This was evidenced by reduced expression of nicotinic receptor subunit genes and reduced conductance through alpha9/10 subunit-containing nicotinic receptors in older mice. Given the importance of these organs to balance maintenance and visual gaze stability, further investigation into altered peripheral vestibular function in older humans is warranted.
JOURNALS OF GERONTOLOGY SERIES A-BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES AND MEDICAL SCIENCES
(2023)
Article
Nanoscience & Nanotechnology
Rafael Crovador, Heidianne Heim, Sophie Cottam, Krishna Feron, Vijay Bhatia, Fiona Louie, Connor P. Sherwood, Paul C. Dastoor, Alan M. Brichta, Rebecca Lim, Matthew J. Griffith
Summary: By manipulating the size of nanoparticles and applying electrical stimuli, controlled drug release and enhanced nerve cell survival and growth were achieved, showcasing the potential of electroactive organic nanoparticles for precise drug delivery in biocompatible systems.
ACS APPLIED BIO MATERIALS
(2021)
Article
Neurosciences
Xiaomei Lin, Tianyuyi Feng, Erheng Cui, Yunfei Li, Zhang Qin, Xiaohu Zhao
Summary: This study successfully established a rat model based on the genetic-environmental interaction, which exhibited phenotype characteristics similar to human AD in terms of cognitive function, brain microstructure, and immunohistochemistry. The genetic factor (APP mutation) and the environmental factor (acrolein exposure) accounted for 39.74% and 33.3% of the AD-like phenotypes in the model, respectively.
Article
Neurosciences
Gustavo Guimara Guerrero, Giovanna Bignoto Minhoto, Camilla dos Santos Tiburcio-Machado, Itza Amarisis Ribeiro Pinto, Claudio Antonio Federico, Marcia Carneiro Valera
Summary: The present study evaluated the influence of head and neck radiotherapy on the behavior and body weight gain in Wistar rats. The results demonstrated that different doses of radiation induced depressive behavior in the animals, and that the weight gain tended to be lower in the irradiated groups.
Article
Neurosciences
Ziwei Gao, Chao Lu, Yaping Zhu, Yuxin Liu, Yuesong Lin, Wenming Gao, Liyuan Tian, Lei Wu
Summary: This study reveals the underlying mechanisms of the rapid antidepressant effects of merazin hydrate (MH), which activates CaMKII to promote neuronal activities and proliferation in the hippocampus.
Article
Neurosciences
Kathleen E. Murray, Whitney A. Ratliff, Vedad Delic, Bruce A. Citron
Summary: Gulf War Illness (GWI) is a chronic disorder that affects approximately 30% of Veterans deployed to the Persian Gulf. This study found that exposure to toxicants during the Gulf War resulted in long-term changes in the morphology of dentate granule cells and that treatment with Nrf2 activator could improve neuronal health in the hippocampus.
Article
Neurosciences
Jing Li, Yan Zou, Xiangchuang Kong, Yangming Leng, Fan Yang, Guofeng Zhou, Bo Liu, Wenliang Fan
Summary: This study examines the functional connectivity changes in individuals with sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL) at the integrity, network, and edge levels. The findings reveal reduced intranetwork connectivity strength and increased internetwork connectivity in SSNHL patients. These alterations are associated with the duration of SSNHL and Tinnitus Handicap Inventory scores. The study provides crucial insights into the neural mechanisms of SSNHL and the brain's network-level responses to sensory loss.
Review
Neurosciences
Didier Majou, Anne-Lise Dermenghem
Summary: In the early stages of SAD, memory impairment is strongly correlated with cortical levels of soluble amyloid-beta peptide oligomers. A beta disrupts glutamatergic synaptic function and leads to cognitive deficits. This article describes the pathogenic mechanisms underlying cerebral amyloidosis, involving amyloid precursor protein synthesis, A beta residue clearance processes, and the role of specific molecules.
Article
Neurosciences
Jing Li, Yi Shan, Xiaojing Zhao, Guixiang Shan, Peng-Hu Wei, Lin Liu, Changming Wang, Hang Wu, Weiqun Song, Yi Tang, Guo-Guang Zhao, Jie Lu
Summary: This study investigates changes in brain anatomical structures and functional network connectivity after chronic complete thoracic spinal cord injury (cctSCI) and their impact on clinical outcomes. The findings reveal alterations in gray matter volume and functional connectivity in specific brain regions, indicating potential therapeutic targets and methods for tracking treatment outcomes.
Article
Neurosciences
Anllely Fernandez, Katherine Corvalan, Octavia Santis, Maxs Mendez-Ruette, Ariel Caviedes, Matias Pizarro, Maria -Teresa Gomez, Luis Federico Batiz, Peter Landgraf, Thilo Kahne, Alejandro Rojas-Fernandez, Ursula Wyneken
Summary: This study reveals the importance of SUMOylation in modulating the protein cargo of astrocyte-derived small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) and its potential impact on neurons.
Article
Neurosciences
Anika Luettig, Stefanie Perl, Maria Zetsche, Franziska Richter, Denise Franz, Marco Heerdegen, Ruediger Koehling, Angelika Richter
Summary: This study found that changes in c-Fos activity during short-term stimulation of the entopeduncular nucleus (EPN) are associated with improvement in dystonia, and also discovered that the cerebellum may be involved in the antidystonic effects.
Article
Neurosciences
Yanlin Tao, Wei Shen, Houyuan Zhou, Zikang Li, Ting Pi, Hui Wu, Hailian Shi, Fei Huang, Xiaojun Wu
Summary: Depression has a higher incidence in women compared to men, and this study investigated the impact of sex on depressive behaviors and underlying mechanisms using a corticosterone-induced depression model in mice. The results showed sex-specific anxiety and depression behaviors in the model group, as well as differences in protein expression and neurotransmitter levels between male and female mice. These findings enhance our understanding of sex-specific differences in depression and support tailored interventions.
Review
Neurosciences
Dnyandev G. Gadhave, Vrashabh V. Sugandhi, Chandrakant R. Kokare
Summary: This article discusses the characteristics and importance of the tight junctions of endothelial cells in the CNS, which act as a biological barrier known as the blood-brain barrier (BBB). It focuses on overcoming the challenges of delivering therapeutic agents to the brain in neurodegenerative disorders, particularly multiple sclerosis, through the use of biomaterials. The article also highlights the current limitations of animal models for studying multiple sclerosis and suggests a potential future research direction.
Article
Neurosciences
Li-Min Mao, Khyathi Thallapureddy, John Q. Wang
Summary: Propofol can enhance synapsin phosphorylation and modulate synaptic transmission in the mouse brain. The study reveals the potential role of synapsin as a substrate of propofol and its effects on neurotransmitter release machinery.
Article
Neurosciences
Syed Maaz Ahmed Rizvi, Abdul Baseer Buriro, Irfan Ahmed, Abdul Aziz Memon
Summary: This study explores the effects of prolonged mask usage on the human brain by analyzing EEG and physiological parameters. The results show that the mean EEG spectral power in alpha, beta, and gamma sub-bands of individuals wearing masks is smaller than those without masks. The performances on cognitive tasks and oxygen saturation level differ between the two groups, while blood pressure, body temperature, and heart rate are similar. The analysis also reveals that the occipital and frontal lobes exhibit the greatest variability in channel measurements.
Article
Neurosciences
Rui-Fang Ma, Lu-Lu Xue, Jin-Xiang Liu, Li Chen, Liu-Lin Xiong, Ting-Hua Wang, Fei Liu
Summary: This study observed changes in brain infarction and blood vessels in rats during neonatal hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy (NHIE) modeling using Transcranial Doppler Ultrasonography (TCD). Longer duration of hypoxia was associated with more severe nerve damage. TCD can dynamically monitor cerebral infarction after NHIE modeling, which may serve as a useful auxiliary method for evaluating animal experimental models.
Article
Neurosciences
Yuxiang Dai, Chen Yu, Lu Zhou, Longyang Cheng, Hongbin Ni, Weibang Liang
Summary: Overexpression of CXCR4 in glioma is correlated with patient survival, and its inhibition can reduce invasion and migration of glioma cells. Inhibiting Nur77 also decreases cancer progression associated with CXCR4.
