Expression Of Metabotropic Glutamate Receptor Research Articles

Is autism a PIN1 deficiency syndrome? A proposed etiological role for glyphosate.

Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder, the prevalence of which has increased dramatically in the United States over the past two decades. It is characterized by stereotyped behaviors and impairments in social interaction and communication. In this paper, we present evidence that autism can be viewed as a PIN1 deficiency syndrome. Peptidyl-prolyl cis/trans isomerase, NIMA-Interacting 1 (PIN1) is a peptidyl-prolyl cis/trans isomerase, and it has widespread influences in biological organisms. Broadly speaking, PIN1 deficiency is linked to many neurodegenerative diseases, whereas PIN1 over-expression is linked to cancer. Death-associated protein kinase 1 (DAPK1) strongly inhibits PIN1, and the hormone melatonin inhibits DAPK1. Melatonin deficiency is strongly linked to autism. It has recently been shown that glyphosate exposure to rats inhibits melatonin synthesis as a result of increased glutamate release from glial cells and increased expression of metabotropic glutamate receptors. Glyphosate's inhibition of melatonin leads to a reduction in PIN1 availability in neurons. In this paper, we show that PIN1 deficiency can explain many of the unique morphological features of autism, including increased dendritic spine density, missing or thin corpus callosum, and reduced bone density. We show how PIN1 deficiency disrupts the functioning of powerful high-level signaling molecules, such as nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2) and p53. Dysregulation of both of these proteins has been linked to autism. Severe depletion of glutathione in the brain resulting from chronic exposure to oxidative stressors and extracellular glutamate leads to oxidation of the cysteine residue in PIN1, inactivating the protein and further contributing to PIN1 deficiency. Impaired autophagy leads to increased sensitivity of neurons to ferroptosis. It is imperative that further research be conducted to experimentally validate whether the mechanisms described here take place in response to chronic glyphosate exposure and whether this ultimately leads to autism.

A glutamatergic biomarker panel enables differentiating Grade 4 gliomas/astrocytomas from brain metastases

BackgroundThe differentiation of high-grade glioma and brain tumors of an extracranial origin is eminent for the decision on subsequent treatment regimens. While in high-grade glioma, a surgical resection of the tumor mass is a fundamental part of current standard regimens, in brain metastasis, the burden of the primary tumor must be considered. However, without a cancer history, the differentiation remains challenging in the imaging. Hence, biopsies are common that may help to identify the tumor origin. An additional tool to support the differentiation may be of great help. For this purpose, we aimed to identify a biomarker panel based on the expression analysis of a small sample of tissue to support the pathological analysis of surgery resection specimens. Given that an aberrant glutamate signaling was identified to drive glioblastoma progression, we focused on glutamate receptors and key players of glutamate homeostasis.MethodsBased on surgically resected samples from 55 brain tumors, the expression of ionotropic and metabotropic glutamate receptors and key players of glutamate homeostasis were analyzed by RT-PCR. Subsequently, a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was performed to identify genes whose expression levels may be associated with either glioblastoma or brain metastasis.ResultsOut of a total of 29 glutamatergic genes analyzed, nine genes presented a significantly different expression level between high-grade gliomas and brain metastases. Of those, seven were identified as potential biomarker candidates including genes encoding for AMPA receptors GRIA1, GRIA2, kainate receptors GRIK1 and GRIK4, metabotropic receptor GRM3, transaminase BCAT1 and the glutamine synthetase (encoded by GLUL). Overall, the biomarker panel achieved an accuracy of 88% (95% CI: 87.1, 90.8) in predicting the tumor entity. Gene expression data, however, could not discriminate between patients with seizures from those without.ConclusionWe have identified a panel of seven genes whose expression may serve as a biomarker panel to discriminate glioblastomas and brain metastases at the molecular level. After further validation, our biomarker signatures could be of great use in the decision making on subsequent treatment regimens after diagnosis.

An antagonist-based two-photon fluorogenic probe for imaging metabotropic glutamate receptor 5 in neuronal cells

The expression of metabotropic glutamate receptor 5 (mGluR5) is subject to developmental regulation and undergoes significant changes in neuropsychiatric disorders and diseases. Visualizing mGluR5 by fluorescence imaging is a highly desired innovative technology for biomedical applications. Nevertheless, there are substantial problems with the chemical probes that are presently accessible. In this study, we have successfully developed a two-photon fluorogenic probe, mGlu-5-TP, based on the structure of mGluR5 antagonist 6-methyl-2-(phenylethynyl)pyridine (MPEP). Due to this antagonist-based probe selectively recognizes mGluR5, high expression of mGluR5 on living SH-SY5Y human neuroblastoma cells has been detected during intracellular inflammation triggered by lipopolysaccharides (LPS). Of particular significance, the probe can be employed along with two-photon fluorescence microscopy to enable real-time visualization of the mGluR5 in Aβ fiber-treated neuronal cells, thereby establishing a connection to the progression of Alzheimer's disease (AD). These results revealed that the probe can be a valuable imaging tool for studying mGluR5-related diseases in the nervous system.

Effect of antipsychotic drugs on group II metabotropic glutamate receptor expression and epigenetic control in postmortem brains of schizophrenia subjects

Antipsychotic-induced low availability of group II metabotropic glutamate receptors (including mGlu2R and mGlu3R) in brains of schizophrenia patients may explain the limited efficacy of mGlu2/3R ligands in clinical trials. Studies evaluating mGlu2/3R levels in well-designed, large postmortem brain cohorts are needed to address this issue. Postmortem samples from the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex of 96 schizophrenia subjects and matched controls were collected. Toxicological analyses identified cases who were (AP+) or were not (AP-) receiving antipsychotic treatment near the time of death. Protein and mRNA levels of mGlu2R and mGlu3R, as well as GRM2 and GRM3 promoter-attached histone posttranslational modifications, were quantified. Experimental animal models were used to compare with data obtained in human tissues. Compared to matched controls, schizophrenia cortical samples had lower mGlu2R protein amounts, regardless of antipsychotic medication. Downregulation of mGlu3R was observed in AP- schizophrenia subjects only. Greater predicted occupancy values of dopamine D2 and serotonin 5HT2A receptors correlated with higher density of mGlu3R, but not mGlu2R. Clozapine treatment and maternal immune activation in rodents mimicked the mGlu2R, but not mGlu3R regulation observed in schizophrenia brains. mGlu2R and mGlu3R mRNA levels, and the epigenetic control mechanisms did not parallel the alterations at the protein level, and in some groups correlated inversely. Insufficient cortical availability of mGlu2R and mGlu3R may be associated with schizophrenia. Antipsychotic treatment may normalize mGlu3R, but not mGlu2R protein levels. A model in which epigenetic feedback mechanisms controlling mGlu3R expression are activated to counterbalance mGluR loss of function is described.

Development of Potent and Selective Negative Allosteric Modulators of the Metabotropic Glutamate Receptor 2 for the Potential Treatment of Alzheimer’s Disease

AbstractBackgroundThe metabotropic glutamate receptor 2 (mGluR2) is a group II mGluR that binds glutamate and utilizes Gi/o signaling within the central nervous system (CNS) to modulate synaptic transmission and neuronal excitation.1 The alteration of basal glutamate signaling has been implicated in a variety of neurodegenerative diseases including Alzheimer’s disease (AD).2 mGluR2 has been found to be overexpressed in the hippocampal neurons of AD patients and receptor overactivation has been shown to induce plaque formation in in vitro AD models.3, 4 Thus, the utilization of a mGluR2 negative allosteric modulator (NAM) may prevent neurodegeneration. The utility of mGluR2 NAMs for neurodegenerative diseases remains unclear due to the lack of mGluR selectivity of historical compounds.1. Niswender, C.M. and P.J. Conn, Metabotropic glutamate receptors: physiology, pharmacology, and disease. Annual review of pharmacology and toxicology, 2010. 50: p. 295‐322.2. Li, S.H., K.S. Abd‐Elrahman, and S.S.G. Ferguson, Targeting mGluR2/3 for treatment of neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric diseases. Pharmacology & Therapeutics, 2022. 239: p. 108275.3. Lee, H.‐g., et al., Aberrant expression of metabotropic glutamate receptor 2 in the vulnerable neurons of Alzheimer’s disease. Acta Neuropathologica, 2004. 107(4): p. 365‐371.4. Caraci, F., et al., Targeting group II metabotropic glutamate (mGlu) receptors for the treatment of psychosis associated with Alzheimer’s disease: selective activation of mGlu2 receptors amplifies beta‐amyloid toxicity in cultured neurons, whereas dual activation of mGlu2 and mGlu3 receptors is neuroprotective. Mol Pharmacol, 2011. 79(3): p. 618‐26.MethodNovel mGluR2 NAMs were synthesized using an iterative library synthetic approach to improve potency, selectivity, and provide an overall sufficient drug metabolism/pharmacokinetics (DMPK) profile. Compound potency (IC50) and selectivity were evaluated in an in vitro GIRK cell‐based T1 flux assay expressing mGluR2 or mGluR3 receptors. Lead compounds were tested in in vitro plasma protein binding assays and rat in vitro and in vivo clearance values were obtained.ResultThe successful discovery and development of a potent and selective mGluR2 NAM as an in vivo tool compound to elucidate the biological effects associated with mGluR2 antagonism was achieved.ConclusionmGluR2 NAMs may be useful therapeutic agents for the potential treatment of AD and other neurodegenerative diseases.

THU495 Glutamate Metabolic Enzymes GLUD1/2 And GPX4 Are Associated with Tumor Size In Black Women With Invasive Lobular Breast Cancer

Abstract Disclosure: T. Young: None. T.C. Abalum: None. N. Hodgins: None. S. Persaud: None. A.I. Fernandez: None. A.O. Olukoya: None. A.M. Rozeboom: None. R.B. Riggins: None. Background and Objective: Invasive Lobular Breast Cancer (ILC) is a special histologic type of breast cancer with unique genetic and biological features. ILC may be less dependent on glucose metabolism than the more common histologic type, invasive ductal breast cancer (IDC), instead relying more on lipid and amino acid metabolism. Our lab has previously published that expression of metabotropic glutamate receptors is increased in more rapidly growing and therapy-resistant cell line models of ILC. We hypothesized that increased expression of glutamate transporters and regulatory enzymes is associated with poor prognostic features. Methods and Analysis: We used multispectral immunohistochemical staining to measure the expression of four functionally related proteins: CD98, GLUD1/2, GPX4, and SLC7A11 in a cohort of 72 women with ILC (23.5% Black, 64.7% White, 11.8% Other). The cohort was in a two-fold redundant tissue microarray (TMA) format comprised of primary tumors collected by the Georgetown University Histopathology and Tissue Shared Resource. SLC7A11 and CD98 form a heterodimer that exports glutamate from, and imports cystine to, the cell. GLUD1/2 are two isoenzymes that convert glutamate into α-ketoglutarate to replenish the TCA cycle, or recycle ammonia to support amino acid synthesis. GPX4 is an enzyme that protects cells from lipid peroxidation-induced death. We compared expression of these proteins with clinical, pathological, and demographic variables (overall survival, hormone receptor expression, tumor size, race, age) using t test/ANOVA, Kaplan-Meier survival analysis, and linear regression. Results: In the 68 evaluable cases, the percentage of ILC tumor cells stained positive for GLUD1/2 and GPX4 was significantly higher than for CD98 or SLC7A11 (P<0.001), so further analyses focused on these. Women with a combination of high (above median) GLUD1/2+ (>49%) and GPX4+ (>54%) expression had a trend toward decreased survival (Hazard Ratio, HR 3.53, P=0.159). GPX4, GLUD1/2, and estrogen receptor (ER) expression were associated with tumor size in the entire cohort (R2 = 0.124, P = 0.041), but this relationship was markedly stronger in Black women (R2 = 0.487, P = 0.040). In univariate analyses, GLUD1/2 (R2 = 0.43, P<0.01) and GPX4 (R2 = 0.27, P<0.05) expression were each associated with tumor size in Black women, but not in the entire cohort. GPX4 expression and tumor size were both significantly higher (P<0.05) in Black women over 60 years of age, compared to those under 60. Conclusion: GLUD1/2 and GPX4 expression may be prognostic in ILC, as our results show that tumor size increases with higher expression of these proteins (especially among Black women). Limitations of this study include small sample size and lack of an independent cohort for validation. Future studies will include analysis of these proteins in a TMA comprised of tissue from women with IDC. Presentation: Thursday, June 15, 2023

Presynaptic Kainate Receptors onto Somatostatin Interneurons Are Recruited by Activity throughout Development and Contribute to Cortical Sensory Adaptation.

Somatostatin (SST) interneurons produce delayed inhibition because of the short-term facilitation of their excitatory inputs created by the expression of metabotropic glutamate receptor 7 (mGluR7) and presynaptic GluK2-containing kainate receptors (GluK2-KARs). Using mice of both sexes, we find that as synaptic facilitation at layer (L)2/3 SST cell inputs increases during the first few postnatal weeks, so does GluK2-KAR expression. Removal of sensory input by whisker trimming does not affect mGluR7 but prevents the emergence of presynaptic GluK2-KARs, which can be restored by allowing whisker regrowth or by acute calmodulin activation. Conversely, late trimming or acute inhibition of Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II is sufficient to reduce GluK2-KAR activity. This developmental and activity-dependent regulation also produces a specific reduction of L4 GluK2-KARs that advances in parallel with the maturation of sensory processing in L2/3. Finally, we find that removal of both GluK2-KARs and mGluR7 from the synapse eliminates short-term facilitation and reduces sensory adaptation to repetitive stimuli, first in L4 of somatosensory cortex, then later in development in L2/3. The dynamic regulation of presynaptic GluK2-KARs potentially allows for flexible scaling of late inhibition and sensory adaptation.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Excitatory synapses onto somatostatin (SST) interneurons express presynaptic, calcium-permeable kainate receptors containing the GluK2 subunit (GluK2-KARs), activated by high-frequency activity. In this study we find that their presence on L2/3 SST synapses in the barrel cortex is not based on a hardwired genetic program but instead is regulated by sensory activity, in contrast to that of mGluR7. Thus, in addition to standard synaptic potentiation and depression mechanisms, excitatory synapses onto SST neurons undergo an activity-dependent presynaptic modulation that uses GluK2-KARs. Further, we present evidence that loss of the frequency-dependent synaptic components (both GluK2-KARs and mGluR7 via Elfn1 deletion) contributes to a decrease in the sensory adaptation commonly seen on repetitive stimulus presentation.

Group 1 metabotropic glutamate receptor expression defines a T cell memory population during chronic Toxoplasma infection that enhances IFN-gamma and perforin production in the CNS

Within the brain, a pro-inflammatory response is essential to prevent clinical disease due to Toxoplasma gondii reactivation. Infection in the immunocompromised leads to lethal Toxoplasmic encephalitis while in the immunocompetent, there is persistent low-grade inflammation which is devoid of clinical symptoms. This signifies that there is a well-balanced and regulated inflammatory response to T. gondii in the brain. T cells are the dominant immune cells that prevent clinical disease, and this is mediated through the secretion of effector molecules such as perforins and IFN-γ. The presence of cognate antigen, the expression of survival cytokines, and the alteration of the epigenetic landscape drive the development of memory T cells. However, specific extrinsic signals that promote the formation and maintenance of memory T cells within tissue are poorly understood. During chronic infection, there is an increase in extracellular glutamate that, due to its function as an excitatory neurotransmitter, is normally tightly controlled in the CNS. Here we demonstrate that CD8+ T cells from the T. gondii-infected brain parenchyma are enriched for metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluR’s). Characterization studies determined that mGluR+ expression by CD8+ T cells defines a distinct memory population at the transcriptional and protein level. Finally, using receptor antagonists and agonists we demonstrate mGluR signaling is required for optimal CD8+ T cell production of the effector cytokine IFNγ. This work suggests that glutamate is an important environmental signal of inflammation that promotes T cell function. Understanding glutamate’s influence on T cells in the brain can provide insights into the mechanisms that govern protective immunity against CNS-infiltrating pathogens and neuroinflammation.

Characterization of metabotropic glutamate receptor 7 and 8 in rat superior cervical ganglion and their changes following chronic intermittent hypoxia

To investigate the expression and localization of metabotropic glutamate receptors 7 and 8 (mGluR7/8) in rat superior cervical ganglion (SCG) and their changes in response to chronic intermittent hypoxia (CIH). We detected the expressions of mGluR7 and mGluR8 in the SCG of 8-week-old male SD rats using immunohistochemistry and characterized their distribution with immunofluorescence staining. The expression of mGluR7 and mGluR8 in the cytoplasm and nucleus was detected using Western blotting. A 6-week CIH rat model was established by exposure to intermittent hypoxia (6% oxygen for 30 s followed by normoxia for 4 min) for 8 h daily, and the changes in systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure and mean arterial pressure were measured. The effect of CIH on expression levels of mGluR7 and mGluR8 in the SCG was analyzed using Western blotting. Positive expressions of mGluR7 and mGluR8 were detected in rat SCG. mGluR7 was distributed in the neurons and small fluorescent (SIF) cells with positive staining in both the cytoplasm and nuclei, but not expressed in satellite glial cells (SGCs), nerve fibers or blood vessels; mGluR8 was localized in the cytoplasm of neurons and SIF cells, but not expressed in SGCs, nerve fibers, or blood vessels. Western blotting of the nuclear and cytoplasmic fractions of rat SCG further confirmed that mGluR7 was expressed in both the cytoplasm and the nucleus, while mGluR8 exists only in the cytoplasm. Exposure to CIH significantly increased systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure and mean arterial pressure of the rats (all P < 0.001) and augmented the protein expressions of mGluR7 and mGluR8 in the SCG (P < 0.05). mGluR7 and mGluR8 are present in rat SCG but with different localization patterns. CIH increases blood pressure of rats and enhanced protein expressions of mGluR7 and mGluR8 in rat SCG.

Ablation of KIF2C in Purkinje cells impairs metabotropic glutamate receptor trafficking and motor coordination in male mice.

Kinesin family member 2C (KIF2C)/mitotic centromere-associated kinesin (MCAK), is thought to be oncogenic as it is involved in tumour progression and metastasis. Moreover, it also plays a part in neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer's disease and psychiatric disorders such as suicidal schizophrenia. Our previous study conducted on mice demonstrated that KIF2C is widely distributed in various regions of the brain, and is localized in synaptic spines. Additionally, it regulates microtubule dynamic properties through its own microtubule depolymerization activity, thereby affecting AMPA receptor transport and cognitive behaviour in mice. In this study, we show that KIF2C regulates the transport of mGlu1 receptors in Purkinje cells by binding to Rab8. KIF2C deficiency in Purkinje cells results in abnormal gait, reduced balance ability and motor incoordination in male mice. These data suggest that KIF2C is essential for maintaining normal transport and synaptic function of mGlu1 and motor coordination in mice. KEY POINTS: KIF2C is localized in synaptic spines of hippocampus neurons, and regulates excitatory transmission, synaptic plasticity and cognitive behaviour. KIF2C is extensively expressed in the cerebellum, and we investigated its functions in development and synaptic transmission of cerebellar Purkinje cells. KIF2C deficiency in Purkinje cells alters the expression of metabotropic glutamate receptor 1 (mGlu1) and the AMPA receptor GluA2 subunit at Purkinje cell synapses, and changes excitatory synaptic transmission, but not inhibitory transmission. KIF2C regulates the transport of mGlu1 receptors in Purkinje cells by binding to Rab8. KIF2C deficiency in Purkinje cells affects motor coordination, but not social behaviour in male mice.

The effect of maternal diabetes on the expression of gamma-aminobutyric acid and metabotropic glutamate receptors in male newborn rats' inferior colliculi.

Few studies have examined the molecular alterations in the auditory pathway of infants of diabetic mothers, notwithstanding the fact that maternal diabetes may have an impact on the development of the neonatal peripheral and central nervous systems. Male newborn rats were studied to determine how maternal diabetes affected the expression of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABAAα1 and GABAB1) and metabotropic glutamate (mGlu2) receptors in the inferior colliculus (IC) in this research. Female rats were given a single intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (STZ) at a 65 mg/kg dose to develop a model of diabetic mothers. The study population was split into sham, diabetes without treatment, and diabetes with insulin groups. Their male neonatal rats were anesthetized on P0, P7, and P14 after mating and delivery. The receptors' distribution pattern was studied using immunohistochemistry (IHC). Pairwise comparison in the groups revealed that the GABA receptors (Aα1 and B1) were significantly downregulated in the diabetes without treatment group (p<0.001). Furthermore, pairwise comparison in the groups indicated significant mGlu2 upregulation in the diabetes without treatment group (p<0.001). Regarding the concentration of all receptors, there was no discernible distinction between the diabetes with insulin and sham groups. This investigation showed that the concentration of GABAAα1 and GABAB1 receptors decreased significantly over time, whereas the concentration of mGlu2 receptors increased significantly over time in male neonatal rats born to streptozotocin-induced diabetic mothers.

Synaptic scaling of corticostriatal circuits underlies hyperactivity in GABA Transporter-1 deficient mice.

Homeostatic synaptic scaling entails adjustment of synaptic strength on a cell to prolonged changes of neuronal activity, which is postulated to participate in neuropsychiatric disorders invivo. Here, we find that sustained elevation in ambient GABA levels, by either genetic deletion or pharmacological blockade of GABA transporter-1 (GAT1), leads to synaptic scaling up of corticostriatal pathways, which underlies locomotor hyperactivity. Meanwhile, medium spinyneurons of the dorsal striatum exhibit an aberrant increase in excitatory synaptic transmission and corresponding structural changes in dendritic spines. Mechanistically, GAT1 deficiency dampens the expression and function of metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluRs) and endocannabinoid (eCB)-dependent long-term depression of excitatory transmission. Conversely, restoring mGluR function in GAT1 deficient mice rescues excitatory transmission. Lastly, pharmacological potentiation of mGluR-eCB signaling or inhibition of homomeric-GluA1 AMPA receptors eliminates locomotor hyperactivity in the GAT1 deficient mice. Together, these results reveal a synaptic scaling mechanism in corticostriatal pathways that regulate locomotor activity.

Profiling prefrontal cortex protein expression in rats exhibiting an incubation of cocaine craving following short-access self-administration procedures.

Incubation of drug-craving refers to a time-dependent increase in drug cue-elicited craving that occurs during protracted withdrawal. Historically, rat models of incubated cocaine craving employed extended-access (typically 6 h/day) intravenous drug self-administration (IV-SA) procedures, although incubated cocaine craving is reported to occur following shorter-access IV-SA paradigms. The notoriously low-throughput of extended-access IV-SA prompted us to determine whether two different short-access IV-SA procedures akin to those in the literature result in qualitatively similar changes in glutamate receptor expression and the activation of downstream signaling molecules within prefrontal cortex (PFC) subregions as those reported previously by our group under 6h-access conditions. For this, adult, male Sprague-Dawley rats were trained to intravenously self-administer cocaine for 2 h/day for 10 consecutive days (2-h model) or for 6 h on day 1 and 2 h/day for the remaining 9 days of training (Mixed model). A sham control group was also included that did not self-administer cocaine. On withdrawal day 3 or 30, rats were subjected to a 2-h test of cue-reinforced responding in the absence of cocaine and a time-dependent increase in drug-seeking was observed under both IV-SA procedures. Immunoblotting of brain tissue collected immediately following the cue test session indicated elevated phospho-Akt1, phospho-CaMKII and Homer2a/b expression within the prelimbic subregion of the PFC of cocaine-incubated rats. However, we failed to detect incubation-related changes in Group 1 metabotropic glutamate receptor or ionotropic glutamate receptor subunit expression in either subregion. These results highlight further a role for Akt1-related signaling within the prelimbic cortex in driving incubated cocaine craving, and provide novel evidence supporting a potential role also for CaMKII-dependent signaling through glutamate receptors in this behavioral phenomenon.

Expression of GABAAα1, GABAB1, and mGluR2 receptors in the lateral geniculate body of male neonates born to diabetic rats.

Diabetes during gestation is one of the most common pregnancy complications and has adverse effects on offspring, including a negative impact on the offspring's central nervous system (CNS). Diabetes is a metabolic disease associated with visual impairment. Due to the importance of the lateral geniculate body (LGB) in the visual pathway, the present study examined the effect of maternal diabetes on the expression of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABAAα1 and GABAB1) and metabotropic Glutamate (mGlu2) receptors in the LGB of male neonates of diabetic rats. Diabetes was induced in female adult rats by a single intraperitoneal dose of streptozotocin (STZ) 65 (mg/kg). In the Insulin-treated diabetic rats, diabetes was controlled by subcutaneous NPH-insulin injection daily. After mating and delivery, male offspring were killed by carbon dioxide gas inhalation at P0, P7, and P14 (postnatal days 0, 7, and 14). The expression of GABAAα1, GABAB1, and mGluR2 in the LGB of male neonates was determined using the immunohistochemistry (IHC) method. The expression of GABAAα1 and GABAB1 was significantly reduced, whereas the expression of mGluR2 was markedly increased in the diabetic group compared with the control and insulin-treated groups at P0, P7, and P14. The results of the present study showed that induction of diabetes altered the expression of GABAAα1, GABAB1, and mGluR2 in the LGB of male neonates born to diabetic rats at P0, P7, and P14. Moreover, insulin treatment could reverse these effects of diabetes.

Metabotropic glutamate receptor 1 alpha: a unique receptor variant with variable implications for Alzheimer's disease pathogenesis.

Metabotropic glutamate receptor 1 alpha: a unique receptor variant with variable implications for Alzheimer's disease pathogenesis.

OR16-5 Riluzole suppresses growth and enhances response to endocrine therapy in ER+ breast cancer

Abstract Approximately 75% of breast cancers are classified as hormone receptor-positive, most of which are estrogen receptor alpha-positive (ER+), which is the primary driver of growth in these tumors. Consequently, endocrine or anti-estrogen therapy is used for treatment. However, despite the benefits of endocrine therapeutics, treatment-resistant relapse is a significant problem that affects 30-50% of patients who initially respond to endocrine therapy. Therefore, studying resistance to endocrine therapy is critical for breast cancer research.We have shown that invasive lobular breast cancer (ILC) cells resistant to the anti-estrogen tamoxifen increase their expression of metabotropic glutamate receptors (GRMs/mGluRs). GRMs are well-known to play important roles in learning and memory in the brain and protect neurons from excitotoxicity (cell death caused by prolonged exposure to neurotransmitters). It is now appreciated that this pro-survival function of GRMs can be highjacked by cancer cells, including breast cancer. Thus, targeting GRM signaling could prove a valuable therapeutic strategy. We chose to target the GRM signaling pathway with the FDA-approved drug Riluzole currently being used to treat amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.In this study, we test the ability of Riluzole to reduce cell growth, alone and in combination with endocrine therapy, in a diverse set of ER+ invasive ductal and lobular breast cancer-derived cell lines, primary breast tumor explant cultures, and the estrogen-independent, ESR1-mutated, ILC-derived patient-derived xenograft model HCI-013EI. In addition to measuring tumor growth rate and size, primary tumors and organs were collected for immunohistochemistry analysis.Riluzole as a single agent suppressed the growth of ER+ invasive ductal and lobular breast cancer cell lines in vitro, inducing differential histologic subtype-associated cell cycle arrest (G0-G1 for ductal, G2-M for lobular). In tamoxifen-resistant ILC cells, Riluzole induced apoptotic and ferroptotic cell death, and inhibited phosphorylation of focal adhesion kinase. Riluzole combined with either fulvestrant or 4-hydroxytamoxifen additively or synergistically suppressed ER+ breast cancer cell growth in vitro. Using proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) staining as a proxy for cell proliferation, the combination of Riluzole plus Fulvestrant significantly reduced PCNA in a patient-derived explant model (t-test p = 0.013). The in vivo experiment showed reduced tumor size and growth between the control and combination treatments. However, unlike in the in vitro experiment, there was little difference between the single-agent fulvestrant and the combination groups. The observed difference between the in vitro and in vivo study may be attributed to the bioavailability of Riluzole in mice.In conclusion, our results show that Riluzole enhances response to endocrine therapy in ER+ breast cancer. Presentation: Sunday, June 12, 2022 12:00 p.m. - 12:15 p.m.

Effects of a Novel Beta Lactam Compound, MC-100093, on the Expression of Glutamate Transporters/Receptors and Ethanol Drinking Behavior of Alcohol-Preferring Rats.

Chronic ethanol exposure affects the glutamatergic system in several brain reward regions including the nucleus accumbens (NAc). Our laboratory has shown that chronic exposure to ethanol reduced the expression of glutamate transporter 1 (GLT-1) and cystine/glutamate exchanger (xCT) and, as a result, increased extracellular glutamate concentrations in the NAc of alcohol-preferring (P) rats. Moreover, previous studies from our laboratory reported that chronic ethanol intake altered the expression of certain metabotropic glutamate receptors in the brain. In addition to central effects, chronic ethanol consumption induced liver injury, which is associated with steatohepatitis. In the present study, we investigated the effects of chronic ethanol consumption in the brain and liver. Male P rats had access to a free choice of ethanol and water bottles for five weeks. Chronic ethanol consumption reduced GLT-1 and xCT expression in the NAc shell but not in the NAc core. Furthermore, chronic ethanol consumption increased fat droplet content as well as peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPAR-α) and GLT-1 expression in the liver. Importantly, treatment with the novel beta-lactam compound, MC-100093, reduced ethanol drinking behavior and normalized the levels of GLT-1 and xCT expression in the NAc shell as well as normalized GLT-1 and PPAR-α expression in the liver. In addition, MC-100093 attenuated ethanol-induced increases in fat droplet content in the liver. These findings suggest that MC-100093 may be a potential lead compound to attenuate ethanol-induced dysfunction in the glutamatergic system and liver injury. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: This study identified a novel beta-lactam, MC-100093, that has demonstrated upregulatory effects on GLT-1. MC-100093 reduced ethanol drinking behavior and normalized levels of GLT-1 and xCT expression in the NAc shell as well as normalized GLT-1 and PPAR-α expression in the liver. In addition, MC-100093 attenuated ethanol-induced increases in fat droplet content in the liver.

Amygdala Metabotropic Glutamate Receptor 1 Influences Synaptic Transmission to Participate in Fentanyl-Induced Hyperalgesia in Rats.

The underlying mechanisms of opioid-induced hyperalgesia (OIH) remain unclear. Herein, we found that the protein expression of metabotropic glutamate receptor 1 (mGluR1) was significantly increased in the right but not in the left laterocapsular division of central nucleus of the amygdala (CeLC) in OIH rats. In CeLC neurons, the frequency and the amplitude of mini-excitatory postsynaptic currents (mEPSCs) were significantly increased in fentanyl group which were decreased by acute application of a mGluR1 antagonist, A841720. Finally, the behavioral hypersensitivity could be reversed by A841720 microinjection into the right CeLC. These results show that the right CeLC mGluR1 is an important factor associated with OIH that enhances synaptic transmission and could be a potential drug target to alleviate fentanyl-induced hyperalgesia.

Lifelong changes of neurotransmitter receptor expression and debilitation of hippocampal synaptic plasticity following early postnatal blindness

In the weeks immediately after onset of sensory loss, extensive reorganization of both the cortex and hippocampus occurs. Two fundamental characteristics comprise widespread changes in the relative expression of GABA and glutamate receptors and debilitation of hippocampal synaptic plasticity. Here, we explored whether recovery from adaptive changes in the expression of plasticity-related neurotransmitter receptors and hippocampal synaptic plasticity occurs in the time-period of up to 12 months after onset of sensory loss. We compared receptor expression in CBA/J mice that develop hereditary blindness, with CBA/CaOlaHsd mice that have intact vision and no deficits in other sensory modalities throughout adulthood. GluN1-subunit expression was reduced and the GluN2A:GluN2B ratio was persistently altered in cortex and hippocampus. GABA-receptor expression was decreased and metabotropic glutamate receptor expression was altered. Hippocampal synaptic plasticity was persistently compromised in vivo. But although LTP in blind mice was chronically impaired throughout adulthood, a recovery of the early phase of LTP became apparent when the animals reached 12 months of age. These data show that cortical and hippocampal adaptation to early postnatal blindness progresses into advanced adulthood and is a process that compromises hippocampal function. A partial recovery of hippocampal synaptic plasticity emerges in advanced adulthood, however.

Glycoproteins of Capsosiphon fulvescens modulate synaptic clustering of PSD95 and prevent social isolation-induced cognitive decline in aged male rats

Social isolation and loneliness inducing cognitive decline are serious health problems in the elderly. Although the hydrophilic glycoproteins of Capsosiphon fulvescens (Cf-hGP) prevent aging-induced cognitive impairment, its effects on social isolation-induced cognitive dysfunction are unclear. This study investigated the efficacy of Cf-hGP against cognitive dysfunction in aged rats and delineated its underlying mechanisms. The oral administration of Cf-hGP (15 mg/kg/d, 4 weeks) reversed the social isolation-induced decreases in phosphorylation of extracellular signal‑regulated protein kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2), postsynaptic density protein 95, and α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methylisoxazole-4-propionic acid receptor subunit 1 and increased expression of metabotropic glutamate receptor 5 in the synaptosome of the dorsal hippocampus. Furthermore, Cf-hGP prevented social isolation-induced spatial memory impairment, and its effects were attenuated by inhibition of ERK1/2 or deglycosylation of Cf-hGP. Cf-hGP-induced clustering of ERK1/2-mediated postsynaptic density protein 95 in the dorsal hippocampus improves memory formation in socially isolated aged rats, and protein glycosylation contributes to enhancing the Cf-hGP effect.