Review
Neurosciences
Samantha Schaeffer, Costantino Iadecola
Summary: Schaeffer and Iadecola reviewed the heterogeneity of the neurovasculature and discussed the limitations of the neurovascular unit concept and the molecular diversity of cerebrovascular cells. They proposed the concept of a 'neurovascular complex' composed of segmentally diverse functional modules that implement coordinated vascular responses to central and peripheral signals.
NATURE NEUROSCIENCE
(2021)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Adam Institoris, Milene Vandal, Govind Peringod, Christy Catalano, Cam Ha Tran, Xinzhu Yu, Frank Visser, Cheryl Breiteneder, Leonardo Molina, Baljit S. Khakh, Minh Dang Nguyen, Roger J. Thompson, Grant R. Gordon
Summary: Functional hyperemia, the process of increasing local cerebral blood flow to meet regional energy demand, is mediated by astrocyte Ca2+ signaling and shows distinct early and late components. Astrocyte Ca2+ plays a fundamental role in amplifying functional hyperemia during sustained neuronal activation.
NATURE COMMUNICATIONS
(2022)
Article
Endocrinology & Metabolism
Amy R. Nippert, Pei-Pei Chiang, Eric A. Newman
Summary: Hypoglycemia is a serious complication of insulin treatment in diabetes. Previous studies suggested that neurovascular coupling, which increases glucose availability to active neurons, might be reduced during hypoglycemia. However, this study found that neurovascular coupling did not change significantly during hypoglycemia and that there was an increase in vessel diameter, suggesting active mechanisms to maintain glucose supply to the brain during hypoglycemia.
JOURNAL OF CEREBRAL BLOOD FLOW AND METABOLISM
(2023)
Article
Biochemical Research Methods
Sebastian Sten, Henrik Podeus, Nicolas Sundqvist, Fredrik Elinder, Maria Engstrom, Gunnar Cedersund
Summary: The study develops a comprehensive neurovascular coupling (NVC) model by combining experimental data from mice, monkeys, and humans, and propagates qualitative insights from each species to the subsequent analysis of data from other species. The model unravels the role of different neuronal sub-populations in mice and applies these insights to analyze primate and human data. This work demonstrates the integration of data with complementary information from different species for a new type of integrative analysis of human data.
PLOS COMPUTATIONAL BIOLOGY
(2023)
Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Joao S. Goncalves, Raquel M. Seica, Joao Laranjinha, Catia F. Lourenco
Summary: Numerous studies have shown a strong correlation between type 2 diabetes (T2DM) and cognitive impairment. This study investigates the role of neurovascular coupling (NVC) in T2DM and its impact on cognitive performance. The results suggest that limited availability of nitric oxide (NO) in the hippocampus is associated with decreased hemodynamic responses and spatial memory decline in young diabetic animals.
FREE RADICAL BIOLOGY AND MEDICINE
(2022)
Review
Neurosciences
Patrick J. Drew
Summary: In the brain, increases in neural activity lead to changes in local blood flow through neurovascular coupling. However, the traditional explanation that increased blood flow supplies the metabolic needs of active neurons is inconsistent with a large body of evidence. Neurovascular coupling is irregular or absent in many brain regions and states, and increased respiration can improve brain oxygenation without changes in blood flow. Simulation studies suggest that low blood flow areas are inevitable due to the brain's vascular architecture and cannot be eliminated by functional hyperemia. This article discusses potential alternative functions of neurovascular coupling such as supplying oxygen for neuromodulator synthesis, regulating brain temperature, signaling to neurons, optimizing cerebral vascular structure, accommodating non-Newtonian blood flow, and driving cerebrospinal fluid circulation.
TRENDS IN NEUROSCIENCES
(2022)
Article
Psychology, Biological
Emma E. M. Spence, Sarah V. L. Hodge, Ryan Rosentreter, Tyler Lam, Jordan W. Squair, James P. Fisher, Aaron A. Phillips
Summary: Findings suggest that increased task complexity reduces selectivity for the posterior circulation, while larger task amplitudes increase selectivity, highlighting the importance of considering task complexity and eye movement patterns in neurovascular coupling research interpretation and design.
PHYSIOLOGY & BEHAVIOR
(2021)
Article
Biology
Arne D. Ekstrom
Summary: Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) is a key tool in cognitive neuroscience, but its relationship to underlying neural activity is not fully understood. Research aims to find a "Rosetta Stone" to directly translate the BOLD signal, local field potential, and single-neuron activity. While there is some support for the idea that BOLD signal changes may be related to gamma-band activity, studies in deeper brain structures suggest differences in both region and frequency.
PHILOSOPHICAL TRANSACTIONS OF THE ROYAL SOCIETY B-BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES
(2021)
Article
Endocrinology & Metabolism
Sung Ji Ahn, Antoine Anfray, Josef Anrather, Costantino Iadecola
Summary: Using a chronically implanted cranial window in awake, head-fixed mice, we selectively expressed the Ca2+ indicator GCaMP7f in nNOS neurons using adenoviral gene transfer in nNOS(cre) mice. Air-puffs directed at the contralateral whiskers or spontaneous motion induced Ca2+ transients and local arteriolar dilation in nNOS neurons. The correlation between Ca2+ transients in nNOS neurons and local arteriolar dilation varied, suggesting a temporal specificity to the role of neuronal nitric oxide in neurovascular coupling.
JOURNAL OF CEREBRAL BLOOD FLOW AND METABOLISM
(2023)
Article
Neurosciences
Stephanie Holstein-Ronsbo, Yiming Gan, Michael J. Giannetto, Martin Kaag Rasmussen, Bjorn Sigurdsson, Felix Ralf Michael Beinlich, Laura Rose, Verena Untiet, Lauren M. Hablitz, Douglas H. Kelley, Maiken Nedergaard
Summary: Holstein-Ronsbo et al. demonstrate that functional hyperemia enhances glymphatic CSF inflow and clearance. They found that direct stimulation of vascular smooth muscle cells also increases glymphatic flow. This study investigates the relationship between functional hyperemia and waste clearance through the glymphatic system.
NATURE NEUROSCIENCE
(2023)
Article
Physiology
Lin Li, Xin-Kang Tong, Mohammadamin Hosseini Kahnouei, Diane Vallerand, Edith Hamel, Helene Girouard
Summary: Alzheimer's disease, characterized by neuronal degeneration and cerebrovascular dysfunction, may have cerebrovascular dysfunction as a key factor in its pathogenesis. This study aimed to investigate neurovascular coupling in a mouse model of AD and found that NVC is altered at multiple levels in APP mice, partly due to oxidative stress.
FRONTIERS IN PHYSIOLOGY
(2021)
Review
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Kleanthi Chalkiadaki, Elpida Statoulla, Maria Markou, Sofia Bellou, Eleni Bagli, Theodore Fotsis, Carol Murphy, Christos G. Gkogkas
Summary: Proper brain development relies on coordinated development of different precursor cells, including neuronal and vascular cells. Neuronal cells and endothelial cells communicate bidirectionally with each other, depending on neuronal activity and guidance cues. Translational control plays a critical role in gene expression pathways for brain development.
ROYAL SOCIETY OPEN SCIENCE
(2021)
Review
Ophthalmology
Luis Alarcon-Martinez, Yukihiro Shiga, Deborah Villafranca-Baughman, Jorge L. Cueva Vargas, Isaac A. Vidal Paredes, Heberto Quintero, Brad Fortune, Helen Danesh-Meyer, Adriana Di Polo
Summary: Understanding the mechanisms of neurovascular interactions is essential for improving functional outcomes in glaucoma. The neurovascular unit, comprising various cell types, regulates processes such as blood flow and neurovascular coupling. Recent studies have highlighted the role of pericytes and the discovery of tunneling nanotubes in the spatial and temporal distribution of blood within the retinal capillary network. Strategies targeting vascular protection and regeneration may hold potential for improving outcomes in glaucoma.
PROGRESS IN RETINAL AND EYE RESEARCH
(2023)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Congping Chen, Zhentao She, Peng Tang, Zhongya Qin, Jufang He, Jianan Y. Qu
Summary: The study presented an approach for imaging neurovascular dynamics in live mouse cortices using multi-contrast mesoscopic and two-photon microscopic imaging, revealing the spatiotemporal correlation between neuronal and vascular responses. The research uncovered significant differences in NVC at regional and microvascular levels, as well as the impact of different brain states on NVC, particularly showing that anesthesia and sedation disrupt NVC.
Article
Engineering, Biomedical
Patricia R. Roby, Jamie P. DeCicco, Avinash Chandran, Nikki Barczak-Scarboro, Stephen M. DeLellis, Cassie B. Ford, Marshall L. Healy, Gary E. Means, Shawn F. Kane, James H. Lynch, Jason P. Mihalik
Summary: The study aimed to investigate how concussion history affects neurovascular coupling in Special Operations Forces (SOF) combat Soldiers. While there was no main effect of concussion history on neurovascular coupling response in SOF combat Soldiers, a dose-response based on lifetime concussion incidence was observed. Assessing NVC response may provide further insight into cerebrovascular function and overall physiological health in individuals with a history of concussions.
ANNALS OF BIOMEDICAL ENGINEERING
(2021)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Joao Laranjinha, Carla Nunes, Ana Ledo, Catia Lourenco, Barbara Rocha, Rui M. Barbosa
Summary: This review explores the regulatory and toxic role of (NO)-N-center dot in multiple pathways, including its potential impact on Parkinson's disease and cell death processes. Additionally, it briefly discusses the modulatory role of NO in brain energy metabolism and as a key regulator of neurovascular responses. Lastly, it introduces a new pathway, the nitrate:nitrite:NO pathway, providing new perspectives on NO biology.
NEUROCHEMICAL RESEARCH
(2021)
Article
Neurosciences
Matilde S. Rodrigues, Claudia Ferreira, Candida Dias, Anna Pliassova, Lisiane Souza, Ana Ledo, Joao Laranjinha, Rodrigo A. Cunha, Attila Kofalvi
Summary: In this study, a simple complementary ex vivo technique for quantifying the activity of key enzymes involved in the production and degradation of 2-AG in brain samples was optimized. The results showed that this technique has potential applications in assessing changes in 2-AG production in neuropsychiatric disorders and health condition models.
EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF NEUROSCIENCE
(2022)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Carla Nunes, Joao Laranjinha
Summary: The molecular mechanisms underlying Parkinson's disease are not fully understood, but mitochondrial dysfunction and nitroxidative stress have been identified as major contributors to dopaminergic neuron degeneration. Excessive nitric oxide and abnormal dopamine metabolism are also factors, suggesting a potential pathway for neurotoxicity. This review highlights the connection between abnormal dopamine and nitric oxide metabolism, suggesting a mechanism involving mitochondrial dysfunction, glutathione depletion and nitroxidative stress in dopaminergic cell death.
ARCHIVES OF BIOCHEMISTRY AND BIOPHYSICS
(2021)
Article
Neurosciences
Gianni Mancini, Candida Dias, Catia F. Lourenco, Joao Laranjinha, Andreza de Bem, Ana Ledo
Summary: The study found that a high fat/cholesterol diet may lead to mitochondrial dysfunction and significantly decreased nitric oxide production in a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease, exacerbating brain tissue damage. In normal mice, the diet only caused moderate hypercholesterolemia but resulted in significant decline in spatial memory.
JOURNAL OF ALZHEIMERS DISEASE
(2021)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Eliana Fernandes, Ana Ledo, Rui M. Barbosa
Summary: This study investigated the use of a platinized carbon fiber microelectrode as a sensing platform for measuring extracellular lactate in the brain. The microbiosensor exhibited high sensitivity, selectivity, and operational stability. Concurrent measurement of glucose and lactate in the brain was achieved using a microbiosensor array.
Article
Biophysics
Matias Regiart, Ana Ledo, Eliana Fernandes, German A. Messina, Christopher M. A. Brett, Mauro M. Bertotti, Rui Barbosa
Summary: Highly sensitive and selective nanostructured lactate and glucose microbiosensors were developed for simultaneous determination in rat brain. The microbiosensors, based on carbon fiber microelectrodes modified with nanoporous gold, exhibited enhanced sensitivity and electrocatalytic properties towards H2O2 detection. The selective measurements were achieved by enzyme immobilization, permselective layer, and a null sensor. The microbiosensor platform was used to determine lactate and glucose in blood serum samples, as well as in vivo measurements of basal extracellular concentrations in different rat brain structures.
BIOSENSORS & BIOELECTRONICS
(2022)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
A. Ledo, E. Fernandes, A. Salvador, J. Laranjinha, R. M. Barbosa
Summary: Hydrogen peroxide is a significant redox signaling molecule that plays a crucial role in cell function and communication. In the brain, it acts as a signaling molecule and neuromodulator. Our study reveals that hydrogen peroxide can diffuse in the extracellular space and has a relatively short half-life. These quantitative details provide valuable insights into the physiology of redox signaling and lay the foundation for studying dysregulation in redox homeostasis associated with diseases.
Article
Chemistry, Analytical
Candida Dias, Eliana Fernandes, Rui M. Barbosa, Ana Ledo
Summary: A microbiosensor based on oxidase was designed and used to monitor lactate concentration in brain slices with high spatial and temporal resolution, showing good analytical performance.
Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Cesar G. Fraga, Andres Trostchansky, Barbara S. Rocha, Joao Laranjinha, Homero Rubbo, Monica Galleano
Summary: Certain plant polyphenols regulate the production of nitric oxide enzymes, while nitrolipids can increase the bioavailability of nitric oxide. These molecules play a significant role in maintaining human homeostasis, especially under inflammatory conditions.
MOLECULAR ASPECTS OF MEDICINE
(2023)
Article
Food Science & Technology
Isabel Barbosa, Catia Domingues, Rui M. Barbosa, Fernando Ramos
Summary: Mushroom poisoning is a serious food safety and health concern. This study developed a new extraction method and analytical method to rapidly and accurately detect toxins in mushroom samples collected from central Portugal. The results showed that Amanita mushrooms had the highest toxin content.
Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Katerina Reva, Joao Laranjinha, Barbara S. Rocha
Summary: Diet is recognized as a major factor that influences human health. The gut microbiota plays a crucial role in various physiological functions and produces metabolites that can affect the host. Recent studies have shown that gut microbiota metabolites can induce epigenetic modifications, linking diet, microbiota, and health. Understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying microbiota-host interactions and epigenetic changes induced by diet is opening up new avenues for personalized therapeutic strategies.
Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
A. Ledo, C. F. Lourenco, E. Cadenas, R. M. Barbosa, J. Laranjinha
Summary: Nitric oxide is a biological ubiquitous signaling molecule with unique physical chemical properties, playing important roles in brain physiology, aging, and neurodegeneration. Understanding the concentration dynamics of nitric oxide in the brain is crucial for studying neurovascular coupling and bioenergetic metabolism.
FREE RADICAL BIOLOGY AND MEDICINE
(2021)
Correction
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Siew Chin Chan, Chih-Wei Tung, Chia-Wei Lin, Yun-Shiuan Tung, Po-Min Wu, Pei-Hsun Cheng, Chuan-Mu Chen, Shang-Hsun Yang
FREE RADICAL BIOLOGY AND MEDICINE
(2024)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Suyuan Liu, Meiling Tan, Jiangxue Cai, Chenxuan Li, Miaoxin Yang, Xiaoxiao Sun, Bin He
Summary: This study reveals that the antibiotic doxycycline effectively inhibits NLRP3 inflammasome activation by targeting mitochondrial translation and mtDNA synthesis, offering potential for the treatment of NLRP3-related diseases.
FREE RADICAL BIOLOGY AND MEDICINE
(2024)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Hao Liu, Nana Li, Ge Kuang, Xia Gong, Ting Wang, Jun Hu, Hui Du, Minxuan Zhong, Jiashi Guo, Yao Xie, Yang Xiang, Shengwang Wu, Yiling Yuan, Xinru Yin, Jingyuan Wan, Ke Li
Summary: Protectin D1 (PTD1) improves hepatic steatosis, inflammation and fibrosis in a NASH mouse model by inhibiting the activation of TLR4 downstream signaling pathway, possibly through upregulation of IRAK-M expression, suggesting a potential new treatment for NASH.
FREE RADICAL BIOLOGY AND MEDICINE
(2024)
