Oxidative stress has long been implicated as a driving force in neurodegenerative disease,with studies of human brain tissue and animal models revealing its important role.Parkinson’s disease(PD),in particular,highli...Oxidative stress has long been implicated as a driving force in neurodegenerative disease,with studies of human brain tissue and animal models revealing its important role.Parkinson’s disease(PD),in particular,highlights the selective vulnerability of neurons to the insults of reactive oxygen species.The motor symptoms of PD are caused by degeneration of dopamine neurons in the substantia nigra.These neurons experience increased oxidative stress due in part to highly active mitochondria that support their high bioenergetic demand and the generation of reactive oxygen species by dopamine metabolism(Watanabe et al.,2024).展开更多
Alzheimer s disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disease chara cterized by memory decline and the accumulation of abnormal protein aggregates in the brain.While the precise cause of Alzheimer s disease remains u...Alzheimer s disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disease chara cterized by memory decline and the accumulation of abnormal protein aggregates in the brain.While the precise cause of Alzheimer s disease remains under investigation,recent research suggests that dys regulation of brainspecific microRNAs(miRs)plays a significant role in Alzheimer s disease pathogenesis.Brain-specific miRs are predominantly expressed within the central nervous system and are crucial for neuronal development,and function,potentially in brain disorders.This review identifies some key brainspecific miRs in Alzheimer's disease,including miR-9,miR-26b,miR-34a,miR-107,miR-124,miR-125b,miR-128,miR-132,miR-146a,miR-155,miR-219,miR-501-3p,and miR-502-3p.The review also shed light on the brain-specific location of these miRs,their dysregulation in Alzheimer s disease,and how they are involved in disease progression.Apparently,these brain-specific miRs modulate specific genes and are therefo re crucial for various cellular processes,including autophagy,cell cycle,tau phosphorylation,amyloid-beta production,and neuroinflammation.Moreover,these miRs are potent disease-modifying factors and their expression levels co uld serve as potential biomarkers for diagnosing or monitoring Alzheimer s disease progression.展开更多
Dendritic spines are small protrusions along dendrites that contain most of the excitatory synapses in principal neurons,playing a crucial role in neuronal function by creating a compartmentalized environment for sign...Dendritic spines are small protrusions along dendrites that contain most of the excitatory synapses in principal neurons,playing a crucial role in neuronal function by creating a compartmentalized environment for signal transduction.The plasticity of spine morphologies provides a tunable handle to regulate calcium signal dynamics,allowing rapid regulation of protein expression necessary to establish and maintain synapses(Cornejo et al.,2022).If excitatory inputs were to be located primarily on dendritic shafts,dendrites would frequently short-circuit,preventing voltage signals from propagating(Cornejo et al.,2022).It is thus not surprising that the structural plasticity of dendritic spines is closely linked to synaptic plasticity and memory formation(Berry and Nedivi,2017).While comprehensive in vitro studies have been conducted,in vivo studies that directly tackle the mechanism of dendritic transport and translation in regulating spine plasticity spatiotemporally are limited.展开更多
Microglia,the primary immune cells within the brain,have gained recognition as a promising therapeutic target for managing neurodegenerative diseases within the central nervous system,including Parkinson’s disease.Na...Microglia,the primary immune cells within the brain,have gained recognition as a promising therapeutic target for managing neurodegenerative diseases within the central nervous system,including Parkinson’s disease.Nanoscale perfluorocarbon droplets have been reported to not only possess a high oxygen-carrying capacity,but also exhibit remarkable anti-inflammatory properties.However,the role of perfluoropentane in microglia-mediated central inflammatory reactions remains poorly understood.In this study,we developed perfluoropentane-based oxygen-loaded nanodroplets(PFP-OLNDs)and found that pretreatment with these droplets suppressed the lipopolysaccharide-induced activation of M1-type microglia in vitro and in vivo,and suppressed microglial activation in a mouse model of Parkinson’s disease.Microglial suppression led to a reduction in the inflammatory response,oxidative stress,and cell migration capacity in vitro.Consequently,the neurotoxic effects were mitigated,which alleviated neuronal degeneration.Additionally,ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry showed that the anti-inflammatory effects of PFP-OLNDs mainly resulted from the modulation of microglial metabolic reprogramming.We further showed that PFP-OLNDs regulated microglial metabolic reprogramming through the AKT-mTOR-HIF-1αpathway.Collectively,our findings suggest that the novel PFP-OLNDs constructed in this study alleviate microglia-mediated central inflammatory reactions through metabolic reprogramming.展开更多
Olfactory ensheathing glia promote axonal regeneration in the mammalian central nervous system,including retinal ganglion cell axonal growth through the injured optic nerve.Still,it is unknown whether olfactory enshea...Olfactory ensheathing glia promote axonal regeneration in the mammalian central nervous system,including retinal ganglion cell axonal growth through the injured optic nerve.Still,it is unknown whether olfactory ensheathing glia also have neuroprotective properties.Olfactory ensheathing glia express brain-derived neurotrophic factor,one of the best neuroprotectants for axotomized retinal ganglion cells.Therefore,we aimed to investigate the neuroprotective capacity of olfactory ensheating glia after optic nerve crush.Olfactory ensheathing glia cells from an established rat immortalized clonal cell line,TEG3,were intravitreally injected in intact and axotomized retinas in syngeneic and allogeneic mode with or without microglial inhibition or immunosuppressive treatments.Anatomical and gene expression analyses were performed.Olfactory bulb-derived primary olfactory ensheathing glia and TEG3 express major histocompatibility complex classⅡmolecules.Allogeneically and syngenically transplanted TEG3 cells survived in the vitreous for up to 21 days,forming an epimembrane.In axotomized retinas,only the allogeneic TEG3 transplant rescued retinal ganglion cells at 7 days but not at 21 days.In these retinas,microglial anatomical activation was higher than after optic nerve crush alone.In intact retinas,both transplants activated microglial cells and caused retinal ganglion cell death at 21 days,a loss that was higher after allotransplantation,triggered by pyroptosis and partially rescued by microglial inhibition or immunosuppression.However,neuroprotection of axotomized retinal ganglion cells did not improve with these treatments.The different neuroprotective properties,different toxic effects,and different responses to microglial inhibitory treatments of olfactory ensheathing glia in the retina depending on the type of transplant highlight the importance of thorough preclinical studies to explore these variables.展开更多
Stroke remains a leading cause of long-term disability worldwide.There is an unmet need for neuromodulatory therapies that can mitigate against neurovascular injury and potentially promote neurological recovery.Transc...Stroke remains a leading cause of long-term disability worldwide.There is an unmet need for neuromodulatory therapies that can mitigate against neurovascular injury and potentially promote neurological recovery.Transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation has been demonstrated to show potential therapeutic effects in both acute and chronic stroke.However,previously published research has only investigated a narrow range of stimulation settings and indications.In this review,we detail the ongoing studies of transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation in stroke through systematic searches of registered clinical trials.We summarize the upcoming clinical trials of transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation in stroke,highlighting their indications,parameter settings,scope,and limitations.We further explore the challenges and barriers associated with the implementation of transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation in acute stroke and stroke rehabilitation,focusing on critical aspects such as stimulation settings,target groups,biomarkers,and integration with rehabilitation interventions.展开更多
Objective To investigate the pretreatment effects of Rhodiola rosea （R. rosea） extract on cognitive dysfunction, oxidative stress in hippocampus and hippocampal neuron injury in a rat model of Alzheimer＇s disease ...Objective To investigate the pretreatment effects of Rhodiola rosea （R. rosea） extract on cognitive dysfunction, oxidative stress in hippocampus and hippocampal neuron injury in a rat model of Alzheimer＇s disease （AD）. Methods Male Sprague-Dawley rats were pretreated with R. rosea extract at doses of 1.5, 3.0, and 6.0 g/kg for 3 weeks, followed by bilateral intracerebroventricular injection with streptozotocin （1.5 mg/kg） on days 1 and 3. Behavioral alterations were monitored after 2 weeks from the lesion using Morris water maze task. Three weeks after the lesion, the rats were sacrificed for measuring the malondialdehyde （MDA）, glutathione reductase （GR） and reduced glutathione （GSH） levels in hippocampus and histopathology of hippocampal neurons. Results The MDA level was significantly increased while the GR and GSH levels were significantly decreased with striking impairments in spatial learning and memory and severe damage to hippocampal neurons in the model rat induced by intracerebroventricular injection of streptozotocin. These abnormalities were significantly improved by pretreatment with R. rosea extract （3.0 g/kg）. Conclusion R. rosea extract can protect rats against cognitive deficits, neuronal injury and oxidative stress induced by intracerebroventricular injection of streptozotocin, and may be used as a potential agent in treatment of neurodegenerative diseases such as AD.展开更多
It is unanimously accepted that stroke is a highly heterogeneous disorder. Different subtypes of ischemic stroke may have different risk factors, clinical features, and prognoses. The aim of this study was to evaluate...It is unanimously accepted that stroke is a highly heterogeneous disorder. Different subtypes of ischemic stroke may have different risk factors, clinical features, and prognoses. The aim of this study was to evaluate the risk factors, clinical characteristics, and prognoses of different subtypes of ischemic stroke defined by the Trial of ORG10172 in Acute Stroke Treatment （TOAST） criteria. We prospectively analyzed the data from 530 consecutive patients who were admitted to our hospital with acute ischemic stroke within 7 days of stroke onset during the study period. Standardized data assessment was used and the cause of ischemic stroke was classified according to the TOAST criteria. Patients were followed up till 30 and 90 days after stroke onset. It was found that large-artery atherosclerosis was the most frequent etiology of stroke （37.4%）, and showed the highest male preponderance, the highest prevalence of previous transient ischemic attack, and the longest hospital stay among all subtypes. Small artery disease （36.4%） was associated with higher body mass index, higher plasma triglycerides, and lower plasma high-density lipoprotein cholesterol than cardioembolism. Cardioembolism （7.7%）, which was particularly common in the elderly （i.e., individuals aged 65 years and older）, showed the highest female preponderance, the highest prevalence of atrial fibrillation, the earliest presentation to hospital after stroke onset, the most severe symptoms on admission, the maximum complications associated with an adverse outcome, and the highest rate of stroke recurrence and mortality. Our results suggest that ischemic stroke should be regarded as a highly heterogeneous disorder. Studies involving risk factors, clinical features, and prognoses of ischemic stroke should differentiate between etiologic stroke subtypes.展开更多
Ion channels are crucial in the generation and modulation of excitability in the nervous system and have been implicated in human epilepsy. Forty-one epilepsyassociated ion channel genes and their mutations are system...Ion channels are crucial in the generation and modulation of excitability in the nervous system and have been implicated in human epilepsy. Forty-one epilepsyassociated ion channel genes and their mutations are systematically reviewed. In this paper, we analyzed the genotypes, functional alterations（funotypes）, and phenotypes of these mutations. Eleven genes featured loss-offunction mutations and six had gain-of-function mutations.Nine genes displayed diversified funotypes, among which a distinct funotype-phenotype correlation was found in SCN1A. These data suggest that the funotype is an essential consideration in evaluating the pathogenicity of mutations and a distinct funotype or funotype-phenotype correlation helps to define the pathogenic potential of a gene.展开更多
Peripheral nerve injury not only affects the site of the injury, but can also induce neuronal apop- tosis at the spinal cord. However, many acupuncture clinicians still focus only on the injury site, selecting acupoin...Peripheral nerve injury not only affects the site of the injury, but can also induce neuronal apop- tosis at the spinal cord. However, many acupuncture clinicians still focus only on the injury site, selecting acupoints entirely along the injured nerve trunk and neglecting other regions; this may delay onset of treatment efficacy and rehabilitation. Therefore, in the present study, we compared the clinical efficacy of acupuncture at Governor vessel and local meridian acupoints combined （GV/LM group） with acupuncture at local meridian acupoints alone （LM group） in the treatment of patients with peripheral nerve injury. In the GV/LM group （n = 15）, in addition to meridian acupoints at the injury site, the following acupoints on the Governor vessel were stimulated： Baihui （GV20）, Fengfu （GV16）, Dazhui （GV14）, and Shenzhu （GV12）, selected to treat nerve injury of the upper limb, and Jizhong （GV6）, Mingmen （GV4）, Yaoyangguan （GV3）, and Yaoshu （GV2） to treat nerve injury of the lower limb. In the LM group （n = 15）, only me- ridian acupoints along the injured nerve were selected. Both groups had electroacupuncture treatment for 30 minutes, once a day, 5 times per week, for 6 weeks. Two cases dropped out of the LM group. A good or excellent clinical response was obtained in 80% of the patients in the GV/ LM group and 38.5% of the LM group. In a second study, an additional 20 patients underwent acupuncture with the same prescription as the GV/LM group. Electomyographic nerve conduc- tion tests were performed before and after acupuncture to explore the mechanism of action of the treatment. An effective response was observed in 80.0% of the patients, with greater motor nerve conduction velocity and amplitude after treatment, indicating that electroacupuncture on specific Governor vessel acupoints promotes functional motor nerve repair after peripheral nerve injury. In addition, electromyography was performed before, during and after electroacu- puncture in one patient with radial nerve injury. After a single session, the patient＇s motor nerve conduction velocity increased by 23.2%, indicating that electroacupuncture at Governor vessel acupoints has an immediate therapeutic effect on peripheral nerve injury. Our results indicate that Governor vessel and local meridian acupoints used simultaneously promote functional repair after peripheral nerve injury. The mechanism of action may arise from an improvement of the local microenvironment in injured nervous tissue, as well as immediate effects of Governor vessel and local meridian acupoint stimulation to ensure the continuity between the peripheral and central nervous systems.展开更多
Objective： To get better recognition of central neurocytoma and diminish misdiagnosis. Methods： A retrospective review identified 15 cases of central neurocytoma. All cases of central neurocytoma were analyzed for t...Objective： To get better recognition of central neurocytoma and diminish misdiagnosis. Methods： A retrospective review identified 15 cases of central neurocytoma. All cases of central neurocytoma were analyzed for their clinical symptoms, pathologic changes, immunohistochemical staining, prognosis and differential diagnosis. Clinical follow up was performed. Results： There were 8 males and 7 females aged 10-64 years （median 32.93 years）. The most common presenting symptoms were those related to increased intracranial pressure （ICP）, including headache （100%）, papilledema （93 %） and vomiting （80%）. All tumors were located in the ventricular system. The tumors were composed of uniform cells with round nuclei and a fine chromatin pattern, and in some areas, small cells with perinuclear halo could be seen. In particular, the anuclear areas may have a fine fibrillary matrix （neuropil）. Nuclear atypia and vascular proliferation appeared in two cases, respectively. Focal necrosis could be seen in one case. Immunohistochemical findings included expression of synaptophysin （15/15）, neuron specific enolase （12/15） and glial fibrillary acidic protein （GFAP） （3/15）. MIB-1 proliferation index ranged from 0.8- 12.5%, and was more than 2% in 3 of 15 cases assessed. Follow-up information of 11 patients was available. Conclusions： Central neurocytoma has a favorable prognosis in general, but in some cases, the clinical course could be aggressive. Increase of GFAP positivity, proliferation index and vascular proliferation might suggest a more malignant process.展开更多
This study investigated the possible involvement of microRNAs in the regulation of genes that participate in peripheral neural regeneration. A microRNA microarray analysis was conducted and 23 microRNAs were identiife...This study investigated the possible involvement of microRNAs in the regulation of genes that participate in peripheral neural regeneration. A microRNA microarray analysis was conducted and 23 microRNAs were identiifed whose expression was signiifcantly changed in rat dorsal root ganglia after sciatic nerve transection. The expression of one of the downregulated microRNAs, microRNA-214, was validated using quantitative reverse transcriptase-PCR. MicroRNA-214 was predicted to target the 3′-untranslated region of Slit-Robo GTPase-activating protein 3. In situ hybridization veriifed that microRNA-214 was located in the cytoplasm of dorsal root ganglia primary neurons and was downregulated following sciatic nerve transection. Moreover, a com-bination of in situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry revealed that microRNA-214 and Slit-Robo GTPase-activating protein 3 were co-localized in dorsal root ganglion primary neu-rons. Western blot analysis suggested that Slit-Robo GTPase-activating protein 3 was upregulated in dorsal root ganglion neurons after sciatic nerve transection. These data demonstrate that mi-croRNA-214 is located and differentially expressed in dorsal root ganglion primary neurons and may participate in regulating the gene expression of Slit-Robo GTPase-activating protein 3 after sciatic nerve transection.展开更多
Charcot-Marie-Tooth neuropathies(CMT)constitute a group of common but highly heterogeneous,non-syndromic genetic disorders affecting predominantly the peripheral nervous system.CMT type 1A(CMT1A)is the most frequent t...Charcot-Marie-Tooth neuropathies(CMT)constitute a group of common but highly heterogeneous,non-syndromic genetic disorders affecting predominantly the peripheral nervous system.CMT type 1A(CMT1A)is the most frequent type and accounts for almost~50%of all diagnosed CMT cases.CMT1A results from the duplication of the peripheral myelin protein 22(PMP22)gene.Overexpression of PMP22 protein overloads the protein folding apparatus in Schwann cells and activates the unfolded protein response.This leads to Schwann cell apoptosis,dys-and de-myelination and secondary axonal degeneration,ultimately causing neurological disabilities.During the last decades,several different gene therapies have been developed to treat CMT1A.Almost all of them remain at the pre-clinical stage using CMT1A animal models overexpressing PMP22.The therapeutic goal is to achieve gene silencing,directly or indirectly,thereby reversing the CMT1A genetic mechanism allowing the recovery of myelination and prevention of axonal loss.As promising treatments are rapidly emerging,treatment-responsive and clinically relevant biomarkers are becoming necessary.These biomarkers and sensitive clinical evaluation tools will facilitate the design and successful completion of future clinical trials for CMT1A.展开更多
Objective Aquaporin-4 （AQP4）, the main water channel protein in the brain, plays a critical role in water homeostasis and brain edema. Here, we investigated its role in the inflammatory responses after focal cerebra...Objective Aquaporin-4 （AQP4）, the main water channel protein in the brain, plays a critical role in water homeostasis and brain edema. Here, we investigated its role in the inflammatory responses after focal cerebral ischemia. Methods In AQP4-knockout （KO） and wild-type mice, focal cerebral ischemia was induced by 30 rain of middle cerebral arterial occlusion （MCAO）. Ischemic neuronal injury and cellular inflammatory responses, as well as the expression and localization of cysteinyl leukotriene CysLT2 and CysLT~ receptors, were determined at 24 and 72 h after MCAO. Results AQP4-KO mice showed more neuronal loss, more severe microglial activation and neutrophil infiltration, but less astrocyte proliferation in the brain after MCAO than wild-type mice. In addition, the protein levels of both CysLT1 and CysLT2 receptors were up-regulated in the ischemic brain, and the up-regulation was more pronounced in AQP4-KO mice. The CysLT1 and CysLT2 receptors were primarily localized in neurons, microglia and neutrophils; those localized in microglia and neutrophils were enhanced in AQP4-KO mice. Conclusion AQP4 may play an inhibitory role in postischemic inflammation.展开更多
Far lateral lumbar disc herniations(FLLDH)represent a separate category of disc pathology which includes both intraforaminal and extraforaminal lumbar disc herniations,that are characterized by a peculiar clinical pre...Far lateral lumbar disc herniations(FLLDH)represent a separate category of disc pathology which includes both intraforaminal and extraforaminal lumbar disc herniations,that are characterized by a peculiar clinical presentation,diagnostic and treatment modalities as compared to the more frequent median and paramedian disc hernias.Surgical treatment often represents the only effective weapon for the cure of this disease and over the years different approaches have been developed that can reach the region of the foramen or external to it,with different degrees of invasiveness.The diagnosis is more demanding and still underestimated as it requires a more detailed knowledge in the spine anatomy and dedicated radiological studies.Computerized tomography and in particular magnetic resonance imaging are the appropriate tools for the diagnosis of FLLDH.Despite the widespread use of these diagnostic tests,many cases of FLLDH are overlooked due to insufficiently detailed radiological examinations or due to the execution of exams not focused to the foraminal or the extraforaminal region.Neurophysiological studies represent a valid aid in the diagnostic classification of this pathology and in some cases they can facilitate the differential diagnosis with other types of radiculopathies.In the present study,a comprehensive review of the clinical presentation,epidemiology,radiological study and the neurophysiological aspects is presented.展开更多
This article reviews basic concepts, general applications, and the potential impact of next-generation sequencing （NGS） technologies on genomics, with particular reference to currently available and possible future ...This article reviews basic concepts, general applications, and the potential impact of next-generation sequencing （NGS） technologies on genomics, with particular reference to currently available and possible future platforms and bioinformatics. NGS technologies have demon- strated the capacity to sequence DNA at unprecedented speed, thereby enabling previously unimaginable scientific achievements and novel biological applications. But, the massive data produced by NGS also presents a significant challenge for data storage, analyses, and management solutions. Advanced bioinformatic tools are essential for the successful application of NGS technology. As evidenced throughout this review, NGS technologies will have a striking impact on genomic research and the entire biological field. With its ability to tackle the unsolved challenges unconquered by previous genomic technologies, NGS is likely to unravel the complexity of the human genome in terms of genetic variations, some of which may be confined to susceptible loci for some common human conditions. The impact of NGS technologies on genomics will be far reaching and likely change the field for years to come.展开更多
Studies have confirmed that bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells （MSCs） can be used for treatment of several nervous system diseases. However, isolation of bone marrow-derived MSCs （BMSCs） is an invasive and...Studies have confirmed that bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells （MSCs） can be used for treatment of several nervous system diseases. However, isolation of bone marrow-derived MSCs （BMSCs） is an invasive and painful process and the yield is very low. Therefore, there is a need to search for other alterative stem cell sources. Adipose-derived MSCs （ADSCs） have phenotypic and gene expression profiles similar to those of BMSCs. The production of ADSCs is greater than that of BMSCs, and ADSCs proliferate faster than BMSCs. To compare the effects of venous grafts containing BMSCs or ADSCs on sciatic nerve injury, in this study, rats were randomly divided into four groups： sham （only sciatic nerve exposed）, Matrigel （MG; sciatic nerve injury ＋ intravenous transplantation of MG vehicle）, ADSCs （sciatic nerve injury ＋ intravenous MG containing ADSCs）, and BMSCs （sciatic nerve injury ＋ intravenous MG containing BMSCs） groups. Sciatic functional index was calculated to evaluate the function of injured sciatic nerve. Morphologic characteristics of nerves distal to the lesion were observed by toluidine blue staining. Spinal motor neurons labeled with Fluoro-Gold were quantitatively assessed. Compared with sham-operated rats, sciatic functional index was lower, the density of small-diameter fibers was significantly increased, and the number of motor neurons significantly decreased in rats with sciatic nerve injury. Neither ADSCs nor BMSCs significantly improved the sciatic nerve function of rats with sciatic nerve injury,increased fiber density, fiber diameters, axonal diameters, myelin sheath thickness, and G ratios （axonal diameter/fiber diameter ratios） in the sciatic nerve distal to the lesion site. There was no significant difference in the number of spinal motor neurons among ADSCs, BMSCs and MG groups. These results suggest that neither BMSCs nor ADSCs provide satisfactory results for peripheral nerve repair when using MG as the conductor for engraftment.展开更多
Spinal cord injury is a major cause of disability with devastating neurological outcomes and lim-ited therapeutic opportunities, even though there are thousands of publications on spinal cord injury annually. There ar...Spinal cord injury is a major cause of disability with devastating neurological outcomes and lim-ited therapeutic opportunities, even though there are thousands of publications on spinal cord injury annually. There are two major types of spinal cord injury, transaction of the spinal cord and spinal cord contusion. Both can theoretically be treated, but there is no well documented treatment in human being. As for spinal cord contusion, we have developed an operation with fabulous result.展开更多
The amygdala,which is involved in various behaviors and emotions,is reported to connect with the whole brain.However,the long-range inputs of distinct cell types have not yet been defined.Here,we used a retrograde tra...The amygdala,which is involved in various behaviors and emotions,is reported to connect with the whole brain.However,the long-range inputs of distinct cell types have not yet been defined.Here,we used a retrograde trans-synaptic rabies virus to generate a whole-brain map of inputs to the main cell types in the mouse amygdala.We identified 37 individual regions that projected to neurons expressing vesicular glutamate transporter 2,78 regions to parvalbumin-expressing neurons,104 regions to neurons expressing protein kinase C-δ,and 89 regions to somatostatin-expressing neurons.The amygdala received massive projections from the isocortex and striatum.Several nuclei,such as the caudate-putamen and the CA1 field of the hippocampus,exhibited input preferences to different cell types in the amygdala.Notably,we identified several novel input areas,including the substantia innominata and zona incerta.These findings provide anatomical evidence to help understand the precise connections and diverse functions of the amygdala.展开更多
One of the major problems of modern neurobiology is how to replace dead or damaged neurons in the human brain or spinal cord after injury or as a consequence of neurodegenerative dis- eases. In fact, because adult mam...One of the major problems of modern neurobiology is how to replace dead or damaged neurons in the human brain or spinal cord after injury or as a consequence of neurodegenerative dis- eases. In fact, because adult mammalian neurons are post-mi- totic cells that cannot divide to replace dead cells, loss due to lesion or disease is permanent. Furthermore, surviving neurons have modest capacity to regenerate their damaged axons and re-establish functional connections. Thus, a gradual neurode- generative scenario with certain similarities in stroke, brain or spinal cord injuries and neurological diseases like Alzheimer＇s disease is produced. These conditions represent the major disease burden of the modern world in terms of mortality, dis- ability, productivity loss and health-care costs （World Health Organization, 2008）. While much effort has been directed to understand the molecular and cellular mechanisms involved in the pathology of these diseases to set new effective treatments, many neuroprotective and regenerative approaches, although showing positive results in preclinical studies, have so far failed to provide strong benefit to patients.展开更多
基金supported by OHSU Neurology Foundation Funds and NIH Grant R01NS119226 to IM.
文摘Oxidative stress has long been implicated as a driving force in neurodegenerative disease,with studies of human brain tissue and animal models revealing its important role.Parkinson’s disease(PD),in particular,highlights the selective vulnerability of neurons to the insults of reactive oxygen species.The motor symptoms of PD are caused by degeneration of dopamine neurons in the substantia nigra.These neurons experience increased oxidative stress due in part to highly active mitochondria that support their high bioenergetic demand and the generation of reactive oxygen species by dopamine metabolism(Watanabe et al.,2024).
基金National Institute on Aging(NIA),National Institutes of Health(NIH),Nos.K99AG065645,RO0AG065645,ROOAG065645-04S1SARP mini grants TTUHSC EP,Edward N.&Margaret G.Marsh FoundationTTUHSC EP MTM Startup Funds(all to SK)。
文摘Alzheimer s disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disease chara cterized by memory decline and the accumulation of abnormal protein aggregates in the brain.While the precise cause of Alzheimer s disease remains under investigation,recent research suggests that dys regulation of brainspecific microRNAs(miRs)plays a significant role in Alzheimer s disease pathogenesis.Brain-specific miRs are predominantly expressed within the central nervous system and are crucial for neuronal development,and function,potentially in brain disorders.This review identifies some key brainspecific miRs in Alzheimer's disease,including miR-9,miR-26b,miR-34a,miR-107,miR-124,miR-125b,miR-128,miR-132,miR-146a,miR-155,miR-219,miR-501-3p,and miR-502-3p.The review also shed light on the brain-specific location of these miRs,their dysregulation in Alzheimer s disease,and how they are involved in disease progression.Apparently,these brain-specific miRs modulate specific genes and are therefo re crucial for various cellular processes,including autophagy,cell cycle,tau phosphorylation,amyloid-beta production,and neuroinflammation.Moreover,these miRs are potent disease-modifying factors and their expression levels co uld serve as potential biomarkers for diagnosing or monitoring Alzheimer s disease progression.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(NSFC/RGC/JRF N_HKU735/21)Research Grant Council of Hong Kong,China(17102120,17108821,17103922,C1024-22GF,C7074-21G)+1 种基金Health and Medical Research Fund(HMRF 09200966)(to CSWL)FRQS Postdoctoral Fellowship(to AHKF).
文摘Dendritic spines are small protrusions along dendrites that contain most of the excitatory synapses in principal neurons,playing a crucial role in neuronal function by creating a compartmentalized environment for signal transduction.The plasticity of spine morphologies provides a tunable handle to regulate calcium signal dynamics,allowing rapid regulation of protein expression necessary to establish and maintain synapses(Cornejo et al.,2022).If excitatory inputs were to be located primarily on dendritic shafts,dendrites would frequently short-circuit,preventing voltage signals from propagating(Cornejo et al.,2022).It is thus not surprising that the structural plasticity of dendritic spines is closely linked to synaptic plasticity and memory formation(Berry and Nedivi,2017).While comprehensive in vitro studies have been conducted,in vivo studies that directly tackle the mechanism of dendritic transport and translation in regulating spine plasticity spatiotemporally are limited.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.82101327(to YY)President Foundation of Nanfang Hospital,Southern Medical University,No.2020A001(to WL)+1 种基金Guangdong Basic and Applied Basic Research Foundation,Nos.2019A1515110150,2022A1515012362(both to YY)Guangzhou Science and Technology Project,No.202201020111(to YY).
文摘Microglia,the primary immune cells within the brain,have gained recognition as a promising therapeutic target for managing neurodegenerative diseases within the central nervous system,including Parkinson’s disease.Nanoscale perfluorocarbon droplets have been reported to not only possess a high oxygen-carrying capacity,but also exhibit remarkable anti-inflammatory properties.However,the role of perfluoropentane in microglia-mediated central inflammatory reactions remains poorly understood.In this study,we developed perfluoropentane-based oxygen-loaded nanodroplets(PFP-OLNDs)and found that pretreatment with these droplets suppressed the lipopolysaccharide-induced activation of M1-type microglia in vitro and in vivo,and suppressed microglial activation in a mouse model of Parkinson’s disease.Microglial suppression led to a reduction in the inflammatory response,oxidative stress,and cell migration capacity in vitro.Consequently,the neurotoxic effects were mitigated,which alleviated neuronal degeneration.Additionally,ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry showed that the anti-inflammatory effects of PFP-OLNDs mainly resulted from the modulation of microglial metabolic reprogramming.We further showed that PFP-OLNDs regulated microglial metabolic reprogramming through the AKT-mTOR-HIF-1αpathway.Collectively,our findings suggest that the novel PFP-OLNDs constructed in this study alleviate microglia-mediated central inflammatory reactions through metabolic reprogramming.
基金supported by the Spanish Ministry of Economy and Competitiveness,No.PID2019-106498GB-I00(to MVS)the Instituto de Salud CarlosⅢ,Fondo Europeo de Desarrollo Regional“Una manera de hacer Europa”,No.PI19/00071(to MAB)+1 种基金Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación Project,No.SAF2017-82736-C2-1-R(to MTMF)in Universidad Autónoma de MadridFundación Universidad Francisco de Vitoria(to JS)。
文摘Olfactory ensheathing glia promote axonal regeneration in the mammalian central nervous system,including retinal ganglion cell axonal growth through the injured optic nerve.Still,it is unknown whether olfactory ensheathing glia also have neuroprotective properties.Olfactory ensheathing glia express brain-derived neurotrophic factor,one of the best neuroprotectants for axotomized retinal ganglion cells.Therefore,we aimed to investigate the neuroprotective capacity of olfactory ensheating glia after optic nerve crush.Olfactory ensheathing glia cells from an established rat immortalized clonal cell line,TEG3,were intravitreally injected in intact and axotomized retinas in syngeneic and allogeneic mode with or without microglial inhibition or immunosuppressive treatments.Anatomical and gene expression analyses were performed.Olfactory bulb-derived primary olfactory ensheathing glia and TEG3 express major histocompatibility complex classⅡmolecules.Allogeneically and syngenically transplanted TEG3 cells survived in the vitreous for up to 21 days,forming an epimembrane.In axotomized retinas,only the allogeneic TEG3 transplant rescued retinal ganglion cells at 7 days but not at 21 days.In these retinas,microglial anatomical activation was higher than after optic nerve crush alone.In intact retinas,both transplants activated microglial cells and caused retinal ganglion cell death at 21 days,a loss that was higher after allotransplantation,triggered by pyroptosis and partially rescued by microglial inhibition or immunosuppression.However,neuroprotection of axotomized retinal ganglion cells did not improve with these treatments.The different neuroprotective properties,different toxic effects,and different responses to microglial inhibitory treatments of olfactory ensheathing glia in the retina depending on the type of transplant highlight the importance of thorough preclinical studies to explore these variables.
基金an Association of British Neurologists Doctoral Research Fellowship co-funded by the Berkeley Foundation and the Stroke Associationsupported by a NIHR Academic Clinical Lectureship in Neurology CL-2020-04-004 NIHR+3 种基金supported by the NIHR Sheffield Biomedical Research Centre(BRC)NIHR Sheffield Clinical Research Facility(CRF)supported by NIHR EME Project Grant NIHR133169funded by Alzheimer’s Research UK Senior Research Fellowship(ARUK-SRF2017B-1)。
文摘Stroke remains a leading cause of long-term disability worldwide.There is an unmet need for neuromodulatory therapies that can mitigate against neurovascular injury and potentially promote neurological recovery.Transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation has been demonstrated to show potential therapeutic effects in both acute and chronic stroke.However,previously published research has only investigated a narrow range of stimulation settings and indications.In this review,we detail the ongoing studies of transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation in stroke through systematic searches of registered clinical trials.We summarize the upcoming clinical trials of transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation in stroke,highlighting their indications,parameter settings,scope,and limitations.We further explore the challenges and barriers associated with the implementation of transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation in acute stroke and stroke rehabilitation,focusing on critical aspects such as stimulation settings,target groups,biomarkers,and integration with rehabilitation interventions.
文摘Objective To investigate the pretreatment effects of Rhodiola rosea （R. rosea） extract on cognitive dysfunction, oxidative stress in hippocampus and hippocampal neuron injury in a rat model of Alzheimer＇s disease （AD）. Methods Male Sprague-Dawley rats were pretreated with R. rosea extract at doses of 1.5, 3.0, and 6.0 g/kg for 3 weeks, followed by bilateral intracerebroventricular injection with streptozotocin （1.5 mg/kg） on days 1 and 3. Behavioral alterations were monitored after 2 weeks from the lesion using Morris water maze task. Three weeks after the lesion, the rats were sacrificed for measuring the malondialdehyde （MDA）, glutathione reductase （GR） and reduced glutathione （GSH） levels in hippocampus and histopathology of hippocampal neurons. Results The MDA level was significantly increased while the GR and GSH levels were significantly decreased with striking impairments in spatial learning and memory and severe damage to hippocampal neurons in the model rat induced by intracerebroventricular injection of streptozotocin. These abnormalities were significantly improved by pretreatment with R. rosea extract （3.0 g/kg）. Conclusion R. rosea extract can protect rats against cognitive deficits, neuronal injury and oxidative stress induced by intracerebroventricular injection of streptozotocin, and may be used as a potential agent in treatment of neurodegenerative diseases such as AD.
文摘It is unanimously accepted that stroke is a highly heterogeneous disorder. Different subtypes of ischemic stroke may have different risk factors, clinical features, and prognoses. The aim of this study was to evaluate the risk factors, clinical characteristics, and prognoses of different subtypes of ischemic stroke defined by the Trial of ORG10172 in Acute Stroke Treatment （TOAST） criteria. We prospectively analyzed the data from 530 consecutive patients who were admitted to our hospital with acute ischemic stroke within 7 days of stroke onset during the study period. Standardized data assessment was used and the cause of ischemic stroke was classified according to the TOAST criteria. Patients were followed up till 30 and 90 days after stroke onset. It was found that large-artery atherosclerosis was the most frequent etiology of stroke （37.4%）, and showed the highest male preponderance, the highest prevalence of previous transient ischemic attack, and the longest hospital stay among all subtypes. Small artery disease （36.4%） was associated with higher body mass index, higher plasma triglycerides, and lower plasma high-density lipoprotein cholesterol than cardioembolism. Cardioembolism （7.7%）, which was particularly common in the elderly （i.e., individuals aged 65 years and older）, showed the highest female preponderance, the highest prevalence of atrial fibrillation, the earliest presentation to hospital after stroke onset, the most severe symptoms on admission, the maximum complications associated with an adverse outcome, and the highest rate of stroke recurrence and mortality. Our results suggest that ischemic stroke should be regarded as a highly heterogeneous disorder. Studies involving risk factors, clinical features, and prognoses of ischemic stroke should differentiate between etiologic stroke subtypes.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (81571273,81571274,81501124,81271434,and 81301107)Omics-based precision medicine of epilepsy being entrusted by Key Research Project of the Ministry of Science and Technology of China (2016YFC0904400)+5 种基金the Natural Science Foundation of Guangdong Province,China (2014A030313489)Science and Technology Planning Projects of Guangdong Province,China (2012B031800404 and 2013B051000084)the Department of Education of Guangdong Province,China (2013CXZDA022,2013KJCX0156,and 2012KJCX009)the Foundation for High-level Talents in Higher Education of Guangdong Province,China (2013-167)Yangcheng Scholar Research Projects of Guangzhou Municipal College (12A016S and 12A017G)Science and Technology Projects of Guangzhou,Guangdong Province,China (2014J4100069,201508020011,201604020161,and 201607010002)
文摘Ion channels are crucial in the generation and modulation of excitability in the nervous system and have been implicated in human epilepsy. Forty-one epilepsyassociated ion channel genes and their mutations are systematically reviewed. In this paper, we analyzed the genotypes, functional alterations（funotypes）, and phenotypes of these mutations. Eleven genes featured loss-offunction mutations and six had gain-of-function mutations.Nine genes displayed diversified funotypes, among which a distinct funotype-phenotype correlation was found in SCN1A. These data suggest that the funotype is an essential consideration in evaluating the pathogenicity of mutations and a distinct funotype or funotype-phenotype correlation helps to define the pathogenic potential of a gene.
基金supported by the Guangdong Province Science and Technology Plan,No.2010B030700008the Guangzhou Science and Technology Plan Application Foundation,No.2012J4300062the Major Project of Science and Technology Plan of Dongguan City in 2012,No.2012105102022
文摘Peripheral nerve injury not only affects the site of the injury, but can also induce neuronal apop- tosis at the spinal cord. However, many acupuncture clinicians still focus only on the injury site, selecting acupoints entirely along the injured nerve trunk and neglecting other regions; this may delay onset of treatment efficacy and rehabilitation. Therefore, in the present study, we compared the clinical efficacy of acupuncture at Governor vessel and local meridian acupoints combined （GV/LM group） with acupuncture at local meridian acupoints alone （LM group） in the treatment of patients with peripheral nerve injury. In the GV/LM group （n = 15）, in addition to meridian acupoints at the injury site, the following acupoints on the Governor vessel were stimulated： Baihui （GV20）, Fengfu （GV16）, Dazhui （GV14）, and Shenzhu （GV12）, selected to treat nerve injury of the upper limb, and Jizhong （GV6）, Mingmen （GV4）, Yaoyangguan （GV3）, and Yaoshu （GV2） to treat nerve injury of the lower limb. In the LM group （n = 15）, only me- ridian acupoints along the injured nerve were selected. Both groups had electroacupuncture treatment for 30 minutes, once a day, 5 times per week, for 6 weeks. Two cases dropped out of the LM group. A good or excellent clinical response was obtained in 80% of the patients in the GV/ LM group and 38.5% of the LM group. In a second study, an additional 20 patients underwent acupuncture with the same prescription as the GV/LM group. Electomyographic nerve conduc- tion tests were performed before and after acupuncture to explore the mechanism of action of the treatment. An effective response was observed in 80.0% of the patients, with greater motor nerve conduction velocity and amplitude after treatment, indicating that electroacupuncture on specific Governor vessel acupoints promotes functional motor nerve repair after peripheral nerve injury. In addition, electromyography was performed before, during and after electroacu- puncture in one patient with radial nerve injury. After a single session, the patient＇s motor nerve conduction velocity increased by 23.2%, indicating that electroacupuncture at Governor vessel acupoints has an immediate therapeutic effect on peripheral nerve injury. Our results indicate that Governor vessel and local meridian acupoints used simultaneously promote functional repair after peripheral nerve injury. The mechanism of action may arise from an improvement of the local microenvironment in injured nervous tissue, as well as immediate effects of Governor vessel and local meridian acupoint stimulation to ensure the continuity between the peripheral and central nervous systems.
基金supported by the Natural Science Foundation of Chongqing Science and Technology Committee (CSTC,2006BB5298)Sci & Tech Project of Chongqing Municipal Education Commission(KJ080302)
文摘Objective： To get better recognition of central neurocytoma and diminish misdiagnosis. Methods： A retrospective review identified 15 cases of central neurocytoma. All cases of central neurocytoma were analyzed for their clinical symptoms, pathologic changes, immunohistochemical staining, prognosis and differential diagnosis. Clinical follow up was performed. Results： There were 8 males and 7 females aged 10-64 years （median 32.93 years）. The most common presenting symptoms were those related to increased intracranial pressure （ICP）, including headache （100%）, papilledema （93 %） and vomiting （80%）. All tumors were located in the ventricular system. The tumors were composed of uniform cells with round nuclei and a fine chromatin pattern, and in some areas, small cells with perinuclear halo could be seen. In particular, the anuclear areas may have a fine fibrillary matrix （neuropil）. Nuclear atypia and vascular proliferation appeared in two cases, respectively. Focal necrosis could be seen in one case. Immunohistochemical findings included expression of synaptophysin （15/15）, neuron specific enolase （12/15） and glial fibrillary acidic protein （GFAP） （3/15）. MIB-1 proliferation index ranged from 0.8- 12.5%, and was more than 2% in 3 of 15 cases assessed. Follow-up information of 11 patients was available. Conclusions： Central neurocytoma has a favorable prognosis in general, but in some cases, the clinical course could be aggressive. Increase of GFAP positivity, proliferation index and vascular proliferation might suggest a more malignant process.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.81160158 and 30860290
文摘This study investigated the possible involvement of microRNAs in the regulation of genes that participate in peripheral neural regeneration. A microRNA microarray analysis was conducted and 23 microRNAs were identiifed whose expression was signiifcantly changed in rat dorsal root ganglia after sciatic nerve transection. The expression of one of the downregulated microRNAs, microRNA-214, was validated using quantitative reverse transcriptase-PCR. MicroRNA-214 was predicted to target the 3′-untranslated region of Slit-Robo GTPase-activating protein 3. In situ hybridization veriifed that microRNA-214 was located in the cytoplasm of dorsal root ganglia primary neurons and was downregulated following sciatic nerve transection. Moreover, a com-bination of in situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry revealed that microRNA-214 and Slit-Robo GTPase-activating protein 3 were co-localized in dorsal root ganglion primary neu-rons. Western blot analysis suggested that Slit-Robo GTPase-activating protein 3 was upregulated in dorsal root ganglion neurons after sciatic nerve transection. These data demonstrate that mi-croRNA-214 is located and differentially expressed in dorsal root ganglion primary neurons and may participate in regulating the gene expression of Slit-Robo GTPase-activating protein 3 after sciatic nerve transection.
文摘Charcot-Marie-Tooth neuropathies(CMT)constitute a group of common but highly heterogeneous,non-syndromic genetic disorders affecting predominantly the peripheral nervous system.CMT type 1A(CMT1A)is the most frequent type and accounts for almost~50%of all diagnosed CMT cases.CMT1A results from the duplication of the peripheral myelin protein 22(PMP22)gene.Overexpression of PMP22 protein overloads the protein folding apparatus in Schwann cells and activates the unfolded protein response.This leads to Schwann cell apoptosis,dys-and de-myelination and secondary axonal degeneration,ultimately causing neurological disabilities.During the last decades,several different gene therapies have been developed to treat CMT1A.Almost all of them remain at the pre-clinical stage using CMT1A animal models overexpressing PMP22.The therapeutic goal is to achieve gene silencing,directly or indirectly,thereby reversing the CMT1A genetic mechanism allowing the recovery of myelination and prevention of axonal loss.As promising treatments are rapidly emerging,treatment-responsive and clinically relevant biomarkers are becoming necessary.These biomarkers and sensitive clinical evaluation tools will facilitate the design and successful completion of future clinical trials for CMT1A.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(81273491, 81072618,30772561 and 30873053)the Natural Science Foundation of Zhejiang Province,China(Y2090069)+1 种基金the"Qianjiang Rencai Research Plan"of Zhejiang Province China(2010R10055)the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities,China(2009QNA7008)
文摘Objective Aquaporin-4 （AQP4）, the main water channel protein in the brain, plays a critical role in water homeostasis and brain edema. Here, we investigated its role in the inflammatory responses after focal cerebral ischemia. Methods In AQP4-knockout （KO） and wild-type mice, focal cerebral ischemia was induced by 30 rain of middle cerebral arterial occlusion （MCAO）. Ischemic neuronal injury and cellular inflammatory responses, as well as the expression and localization of cysteinyl leukotriene CysLT2 and CysLT~ receptors, were determined at 24 and 72 h after MCAO. Results AQP4-KO mice showed more neuronal loss, more severe microglial activation and neutrophil infiltration, but less astrocyte proliferation in the brain after MCAO than wild-type mice. In addition, the protein levels of both CysLT1 and CysLT2 receptors were up-regulated in the ischemic brain, and the up-regulation was more pronounced in AQP4-KO mice. The CysLT1 and CysLT2 receptors were primarily localized in neurons, microglia and neutrophils; those localized in microglia and neutrophils were enhanced in AQP4-KO mice. Conclusion AQP4 may play an inhibitory role in postischemic inflammation.
文摘Far lateral lumbar disc herniations(FLLDH)represent a separate category of disc pathology which includes both intraforaminal and extraforaminal lumbar disc herniations,that are characterized by a peculiar clinical presentation,diagnostic and treatment modalities as compared to the more frequent median and paramedian disc hernias.Surgical treatment often represents the only effective weapon for the cure of this disease and over the years different approaches have been developed that can reach the region of the foramen or external to it,with different degrees of invasiveness.The diagnosis is more demanding and still underestimated as it requires a more detailed knowledge in the spine anatomy and dedicated radiological studies.Computerized tomography and in particular magnetic resonance imaging are the appropriate tools for the diagnosis of FLLDH.Despite the widespread use of these diagnostic tests,many cases of FLLDH are overlooked due to insufficiently detailed radiological examinations or due to the execution of exams not focused to the foraminal or the extraforaminal region.Neurophysiological studies represent a valid aid in the diagnostic classification of this pathology and in some cases they can facilitate the differential diagnosis with other types of radiculopathies.In the present study,a comprehensive review of the clinical presentation,epidemiology,radiological study and the neurophysiological aspects is presented.
基金supported by NINDS/NIH(JZ),Coldwell Foundation(JZ) and TTUHSC(JZ)
文摘This article reviews basic concepts, general applications, and the potential impact of next-generation sequencing （NGS） technologies on genomics, with particular reference to currently available and possible future platforms and bioinformatics. NGS technologies have demon- strated the capacity to sequence DNA at unprecedented speed, thereby enabling previously unimaginable scientific achievements and novel biological applications. But, the massive data produced by NGS also presents a significant challenge for data storage, analyses, and management solutions. Advanced bioinformatic tools are essential for the successful application of NGS technology. As evidenced throughout this review, NGS technologies will have a striking impact on genomic research and the entire biological field. With its ability to tackle the unsolved challenges unconquered by previous genomic technologies, NGS is likely to unravel the complexity of the human genome in terms of genetic variations, some of which may be confined to susceptible loci for some common human conditions. The impact of NGS technologies on genomics will be far reaching and likely change the field for years to come.
基金supported by Brazilian grants from Fundacao de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de Sao Paulo(FAPESP)Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico(CNPq)CAPES
文摘Studies have confirmed that bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells （MSCs） can be used for treatment of several nervous system diseases. However, isolation of bone marrow-derived MSCs （BMSCs） is an invasive and painful process and the yield is very low. Therefore, there is a need to search for other alterative stem cell sources. Adipose-derived MSCs （ADSCs） have phenotypic and gene expression profiles similar to those of BMSCs. The production of ADSCs is greater than that of BMSCs, and ADSCs proliferate faster than BMSCs. To compare the effects of venous grafts containing BMSCs or ADSCs on sciatic nerve injury, in this study, rats were randomly divided into four groups： sham （only sciatic nerve exposed）, Matrigel （MG; sciatic nerve injury ＋ intravenous transplantation of MG vehicle）, ADSCs （sciatic nerve injury ＋ intravenous MG containing ADSCs）, and BMSCs （sciatic nerve injury ＋ intravenous MG containing BMSCs） groups. Sciatic functional index was calculated to evaluate the function of injured sciatic nerve. Morphologic characteristics of nerves distal to the lesion were observed by toluidine blue staining. Spinal motor neurons labeled with Fluoro-Gold were quantitatively assessed. Compared with sham-operated rats, sciatic functional index was lower, the density of small-diameter fibers was significantly increased, and the number of motor neurons significantly decreased in rats with sciatic nerve injury. Neither ADSCs nor BMSCs significantly improved the sciatic nerve function of rats with sciatic nerve injury,increased fiber density, fiber diameters, axonal diameters, myelin sheath thickness, and G ratios （axonal diameter/fiber diameter ratios） in the sciatic nerve distal to the lesion site. There was no significant difference in the number of spinal motor neurons among ADSCs, BMSCs and MG groups. These results suggest that neither BMSCs nor ADSCs provide satisfactory results for peripheral nerve repair when using MG as the conductor for engraftment.
文摘Spinal cord injury is a major cause of disability with devastating neurological outcomes and lim-ited therapeutic opportunities, even though there are thousands of publications on spinal cord injury annually. There are two major types of spinal cord injury, transaction of the spinal cord and spinal cord contusion. Both can theoretically be treated, but there is no well documented treatment in human being. As for spinal cord contusion, we have developed an operation with fabulous result.
基金the Key Project of the National Natural Science Foundation of China(31430034)the National Key Research and Development Project of the Ministry of Science and Technology of China(2016YF051000)+3 种基金the Science and Technology Program of Guangdong Province,China(2018B030334001)the Key Realm R&D Program of Guangdong Province,China(2019B030335001)Funds for Creative Research Groups of China from the National Natural Science Foundation of China(81521062)the Non-Profit Central Research Institute Fund of the Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences(2019PT310023)。
文摘The amygdala,which is involved in various behaviors and emotions,is reported to connect with the whole brain.However,the long-range inputs of distinct cell types have not yet been defined.Here,we used a retrograde trans-synaptic rabies virus to generate a whole-brain map of inputs to the main cell types in the mouse amygdala.We identified 37 individual regions that projected to neurons expressing vesicular glutamate transporter 2,78 regions to parvalbumin-expressing neurons,104 regions to neurons expressing protein kinase C-δ,and 89 regions to somatostatin-expressing neurons.The amygdala received massive projections from the isocortex and striatum.Several nuclei,such as the caudate-putamen and the CA1 field of the hippocampus,exhibited input preferences to different cell types in the amygdala.Notably,we identified several novel input areas,including the substantia innominata and zona incerta.These findings provide anatomical evidence to help understand the precise connections and diverse functions of the amygdala.
文摘One of the major problems of modern neurobiology is how to replace dead or damaged neurons in the human brain or spinal cord after injury or as a consequence of neurodegenerative dis- eases. In fact, because adult mammalian neurons are post-mi- totic cells that cannot divide to replace dead cells, loss due to lesion or disease is permanent. Furthermore, surviving neurons have modest capacity to regenerate their damaged axons and re-establish functional connections. Thus, a gradual neurode- generative scenario with certain similarities in stroke, brain or spinal cord injuries and neurological diseases like Alzheimer＇s disease is produced. These conditions represent the major disease burden of the modern world in terms of mortality, dis- ability, productivity loss and health-care costs （World Health Organization, 2008）. While much effort has been directed to understand the molecular and cellular mechanisms involved in the pathology of these diseases to set new effective treatments, many neuroprotective and regenerative approaches, although showing positive results in preclinical studies, have so far failed to provide strong benefit to patients.
