Tuning synaptic strength by regulation of AMPA glutamate receptor localization.

Long-term potentiation (LTP) of excitatory synapses is a leading model to explain the concept of information storage in the brain. Multiple mechanisms contribute to LTP, but central amongst them is an increased sensitivity of the postsynaptic membrane to neurotransmitter release. This sensitivity is predominantly determined by the abundance and localization of AMPA-type glutamate receptors (AMPARs). A combination of AMPAR structural data, super-resolution imaging of excitatory synapses, and an abundance of electrophysiological studies are providing an ever-clearer picture of how AMPARs are recruited and organized at synaptic junctions. Here, we review the latest insights into this process, and discuss how both cytoplasmic and extracellular receptor elements cooperate to tune the AMPAR response at the hippocampal CA1 synapse.

Imaging brain tissue architecture across millimeter to nanometer scales.

Mapping the complex and dense arrangement of cells and their connectivity in brain tissue demands nanoscale spatial resolution imaging. Super-resolution optical microscopy excels at visualizing specific molecules and individual cells but fails to provide tissue context. Here we developed Comprehensive Analysis of Tissues across Scales (CATS), a technology to densely map brain tissue architecture from millimeter regional to nanometer synaptic scales in diverse chemically fixed brain preparations, including rodent and human. CATS uses fixation-compatible extracellular labeling and optical imaging, including stimulated emission depletion or expansion microscopy, to comprehensively delineate cellular structures. It enables three-dimensional reconstruction of single synapses and mapping of synaptic connectivity by identification and analysis of putative synaptic cleft regions. Applying CATS to the mouse hippocampal mossy fiber circuitry, we reconstructed and quantified the synaptic input and output structure of identified neurons. We furthermore demonstrate applicability to clinically derived human tissue samples, including formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded routine diagnostic specimens, for visualizing the cellular architecture of brain tissue in health and disease.

Dense 4D nanoscale reconstruction of living brain tissue.

Three-dimensional (3D) reconstruction of living brain tissue down to an individual synapse level would create opportunities for decoding the dynamics and structure-function relationships of the brain's complex and dense information processing network; however, this has been hindered by insufficient 3D resolution, inadequate signal-to-noise ratio and prohibitive light burden in optical imaging, whereas electron microscopy is inherently static. Here we solved these challenges by developing an integrated optical/machine-learning technology, LIONESS (live information-optimized nanoscopy enabling saturated segmentation). This leverages optical modifications to stimulated emission depletion microscopy in comprehensively, extracellularly labeled tissue and previous information on sample structure via machine learning to simultaneously achieve isotropic super-resolution, high signal-to-noise ratio and compatibility with living tissue. This allows dense deep-learning-based instance segmentation and 3D reconstruction at a synapse level, incorporating molecular, activity and morphodynamic information. LIONESS opens up avenues for studying the dynamic functional (nano-)architecture of living brain tissue.

Modulatory mechanisms of TARP γ8-selective AMPA receptor therapeutics.

AMPA glutamate receptors (AMPARs) mediate excitatory neurotransmission throughout the brain. Their signalling is uniquely diversified by brain region-specific auxiliary subunits, providing an opportunity for the development of selective therapeutics. AMPARs associated with TARP γ8 are enriched in the hippocampus, and are targets of emerging anti-epileptic drugs. To understand their therapeutic activity, we determined cryo-EM structures of the GluA1/2-γ8 receptor associated with three potent, chemically diverse ligands. We find that despite sharing a lipid-exposed and water-accessible binding pocket, drug action is differentially affected by binding-site mutants. Together with patch-clamp recordings and MD simulations we also demonstrate that ligand-triggered reorganisation of the AMPAR-TARP interface contributes to modulation. Unexpectedly, one ligand (JNJ-61432059) acts bifunctionally, negatively affecting GluA1 but exerting positive modulatory action on GluA2-containing AMPARs, in a TARP stoichiometry-dependent manner. These results further illuminate the action of TARPs, demonstrate the sensitive balance between positive and negative modulatory action, and provide a mechanistic platform for development of both positive and negative selective AMPAR modulators.

Molecular Cloning Using In Vivo DNA Assembly.

Here we describe the in vivo DNA assembly approach, where molecular cloning procedures are performed using an E. coli recA-independent recombination pathway, which assembles linear fragments of DNA with short homologous termini. This pathway is present in all standard laboratory E. coli strains and, by bypassing the need for in vitro DNA assembly, allows simplified molecular cloning to be performed without the plasmid instability issues associated with specialized recombination-cloning bacterial strains. The methodology requires specific primer design and can perform all standard plasmid modifications (insertions, deletions, mutagenesis, and sub-cloning) in a rapid, simple, and cost-efficient manner, as it does not require commercial kits or specialized bacterial strains. Additionally, this approach can be used to perform complex procedures such as multiple modifications to a plasmid, as up to 6 linear fragments can be assembled in vivo by this recombination pathway. Procedures generally require less than 3 h, involving PCR amplification, DpnI digestion of template DNA, and transformation, upon which circular plasmids are assembled. In this chapter we describe the requirements, procedure, and potential pitfalls when using this technique, as well as protocol variations to overcome the most common issues.

Mechanisms underlying TARP modulation of the GluA1/2-γ8 AMPA receptor.

AMPA-type glutamate receptors (AMPARs) mediate rapid signal transmission at excitatory synapses in the brain. Glutamate binding to the receptor's ligand-binding domains (LBDs) leads to ion channel activation and desensitization. Gating kinetics shape synaptic transmission and are strongly modulated by transmembrane AMPAR regulatory proteins (TARPs) through currently incompletely resolved mechanisms. Here, electron cryo-microscopy structures of the GluA1/2 TARP-γ8 complex, in both open and desensitized states (at 3.5 Å), reveal state-selective engagement of the LBDs by the large TARP-γ8 loop ('ß1'), elucidating how this TARP stabilizes specific gating states. We further show how TARPs alter channel rectification, by interacting with the pore helix of the selectivity filter. Lastly, we reveal that the Q/R-editing site couples the channel constriction at the filter entrance to the gate, and forms the major cation binding site in the conduction path. Our results provide a mechanistic framework of how TARPs modulate AMPAR gating and conductance.

AMPA receptor anchoring at CA1 synapses is determined by N-terminal domain and TARP γ8 interactions.

AMPA receptor (AMPAR) abundance and positioning at excitatory synapses regulates the strength of transmission. Changes in AMPAR localisation can enact synaptic plasticity, allowing long-term information storage, and is therefore tightly controlled. Multiple mechanisms regulating AMPAR synaptic anchoring have been described, but with limited coherence or comparison between reports, our understanding of this process is unclear. Here, combining synaptic recordings from mouse hippocampal slices and super-resolution imaging in dissociated cultures, we compare the contributions of three AMPAR interaction domains controlling transmission at hippocampal CA1 synapses. We show that the AMPAR C-termini play only a modulatory role, whereas the extracellular N-terminal domain (NTD) and PDZ interactions of the auxiliary subunit TARP γ8 are both crucial, and each is sufficient to maintain transmission. Our data support a model in which γ8 accumulates AMPARs at the postsynaptic density, where the NTD further tunes their positioning. This interplay between cytosolic (TARP γ8) and synaptic cleft (NTD) interactions provides versatility to regulate synaptic transmission and plasticity.

Gating and modulation of a hetero-octameric AMPA glutamate receptor.

AMPA receptors (AMPARs) mediate the majority of excitatory transmission in the brain and enable the synaptic plasticity that underlies learning1. A diverse array of AMPAR signalling complexes are established by receptor auxiliary subunits, which associate with the AMPAR in various combinations to modulate trafficking, gating and synaptic strength2. However, their mechanisms of action are poorly understood. Here we determine cryo-electron microscopy structures of the heteromeric GluA1-GluA2 receptor assembled with both TARP-γ8 and CNIH2, the predominant AMPAR complex in the forebrain, in both resting and active states. Two TARP-γ8 and two CNIH2 subunits insert at distinct sites beneath the ligand-binding domains of the receptor, with site-specific lipids shaping each interaction and affecting the gating regulation of the AMPARs. Activation of the receptor leads to asymmetry between GluA1 and GluA2 along the ion conduction path and an outward expansion of the channel triggers counter-rotations of both auxiliary subunit pairs, promoting the active-state conformation. In addition, both TARP-γ8 and CNIH2 pivot towards the pore exit upon activation, extending their reach for cytoplasmic receptor elements. CNIH2 achieves this through its uniquely extended M2 helix, which has transformed this endoplasmic reticulum-export factor into a powerful AMPAR modulator that is capable of providing hippocampal pyramidal neurons with their integrative synaptic properties.

Characterizing the binding and function of TARP γ8-selective AMPA receptor modulators.

α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid(AMPA)-type glutamate receptors (AMPARs) are the predominant excitatory neurotransmitter receptors in the brain, where they mediate synaptic transmission and plasticity. Excessive AMPAR activation leads to diseases such as epilepsy. AMPAR properties are modulated by auxiliary proteins and foremost by the transmembrane AMPAR regulatory proteins (TARPs). These distribute in unique expression patterns across the brain, rendering AMPAR/TARP complexes promising targets for region-specific therapeutic intervention. TARP γ8 is predominantly expressed in the forebrain and is enriched in the hippocampus, a region associated with temporal lobe epilepsy. Recent high-throughput medicinal chemistry screens have identified multiple promising compounds that selectively target AMPARs associated with γ8 and hold promise for epilepsy treatment. However, how these modulators target the receptor complex is currently unknown. Here, we use a combination of ligand docking, molecular dynamics simulations, and electrophysiology to address this question. We identify a conserved oxindole isostere, shared between three structurally diverse modulators (LY-3130481, JNJ-55511118, and JNJ-61432059) as the major module engaging γ8 by an H-bond to Asn-172 (γ8). The remaining variable region of each molecule likely targets the receptor complex in ligand-selective modes. Functional data reveal parallels in the underlying modulatory action of two prominent compounds. This work will aid development of refined AMPAR epilepsy therapeutics and facilitate to uncover the mechanisms by which TARPs modulate the receptor.

An inhalation anaesthesia approach for neonatal mice allowing streamlined stereotactic injection in the brain.

BACKGROUND: Investigating brain function requires tools and techniques to visualise, modify and manipulate neuronal tissue. One powerful and popular method is intracerebral injection of customised viruses, allowing expression of exogenous transgenes. This technique is a standard procedure for adult mice, and is used by laboratories worldwide. Use of neonatal animals in scientific research allows investigation of developing tissues and enables long-term study of cell populations. However, procedures on neonatal mice are more challenging, due to the lack of reliable methods and apparatus for anaesthesia of these animals. NEW METHOD: Here, we report an inhalation-based protocol for anaesthesia of neonatal (P0-2) mice and present a custom 3D-printed apparatus for maintenance of anaesthesia during surgical procedures. Our optimised method of anaesthesia enables a rapid method of stereotactic injection in neonatal mice for transduction of brain tissue. RESULTS AND COMPARISON WITH EXISTING METHODS: This approach significantly enhances animal welfare and facilitates wider and simpler use of neonatal rodents in scientific research. We demonstrate this procedure for targeted labelling of specific brain regions, and in vivo modification of tissue prior to organotypic culture. CONCLUSIONS: Our protocol for reliable delivery of inhalational anaesthetics can be readily adopted by any laboratory and will enable safer use of neonatal rodents across a diverse spectrum of scientific disciplines. Application to stereotactic injections allows a rapid and efficient method for modification of brain tissue.

In vivo DNA assembly using common laboratory bacteria: A re-emerging tool to simplify molecular cloning.

Molecular cloning is a cornerstone of biomedical, biotechnological, and synthetic biology research. As such, improved cloning methodologies can significantly advance the speed and cost of research projects. Whereas current popular cloning approaches use in vitro assembly of DNA fragments, in vivo cloning offers potential for greater simplification. It is generally assumed that bacterial in vivo cloning requires Escherichia coli strains with enhanced recombination ability; however, this is incorrect. A widely present, bacterial RecA-independent recombination pathway is re-emerging as a powerful tool for molecular cloning and DNA assembly. This poorly understood pathway offers optimal cloning properties (i.e. seamless, directional, and sequence-independent) without requiring in vitro DNA assembly or specialized bacteria, therefore vastly simplifying cloning procedures. Although the use of this pathway to perform DNA assembly was first reported over 25 years ago, it failed to gain popularity, possibly due to both technical and circumstantial reasons. Technical limitations have now been overcome, and recent reports have demonstrated its versatility for DNA manipulation. Here, we summarize the historical trajectory of this approach and collate recent reports to provide a roadmap for its optimal use. Given the simplified protocols and minimal requirements, cloning using in vivo DNA assembly in E. coli has the potential to become widely employed across the molecular biology community.

Architecture of the heteromeric GluA1/2 AMPA receptor in complex with the auxiliary subunit TARP γ8.

AMPA-type glutamate receptors (AMPARs) mediate excitatory neurotransmission and are central regulators of synaptic plasticity, a molecular mechanism underlying learning and memory. Although AMPARs act predominantly as heteromers, structural studies have focused on homomeric assemblies. Here, we present a cryo-electron microscopy structure of the heteromeric GluA1/2 receptor associated with two transmembrane AMPAR regulatory protein (TARP) γ8 auxiliary subunits, the principal AMPAR complex at hippocampal synapses. Within the receptor, the core subunits arrange to give the GluA2 subunit dominant control of gating. This structure reveals the geometry of the Q/R site that controls calcium flux, suggests association of TARP-stabilized lipids, and demonstrates that the extracellular loop of γ8 modulates gating by selectively interacting with the GluA2 ligand-binding domain. Collectively, this structure provides a blueprint for deciphering the signal transduction mechanisms of synaptic AMPARs.

Mechanisms of postsynaptic localization of AMPA-type glutamate receptors and their regulation during long-term potentiation.

l-Glutamate is the main excitatory neurotransmitter in the brain, with postsynaptic responses to its release predominantly mediated by AMPA-type glutamate receptors (AMPARs). A critical component of synaptic plasticity involves changes in the number of responding postsynaptic receptors, which are dynamically recruited to and anchored at postsynaptic sites. Emerging findings continue to shed new light on molecular mechanisms that mediate AMPAR postsynaptic trafficking and localization. Accordingly, unconventional secretory trafficking of AMPARs occurs in dendrites, from the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) through the ER-Golgi intermediary compartment directly to recycling endosomes, independent of the Golgi apparatus. Upon exocytosis, AMPARs diffuse in the plasma membrane to reach the postsynaptic site, where they are trapped to contribute to transmission. This trapping occurs through a combination of both intracellular interactions, such as TARP (transmembrane AMPAR regulatory protein) binding to α-actinin-stabilized PSD-95, and extracellular interactions through the receptor amino-terminal domain. These anchoring mechanisms may facilitate precise receptor positioning with respect to glutamate release sites to enable efficient synaptic transmission.

Characterisation of Nav1.7 functional expression in rat dorsal root ganglia neurons by using an electrical field stimulation assay.

Background The Nav1.7 subtype of voltage-gated sodium channels is specifically expressed in sensory and sympathetic ganglia neurons where it plays an important role in the generation and transmission of information related to pain sensation. Human loss or gain-of-function mutations in the gene encoding Nav1.7 channels (SCN9A) are associated with either absence of pain, as reported for congenital insensitivity to pain, or with exacerbation of pain, as reported for primary erythromelalgia and paroxysmal extreme pain disorder. Based on this important human genetic evidence, numerous drug discovery efforts are ongoing in search for Nav1.7 blockers as a novel therapeutic strategy to treat pain conditions. Results We are reporting here a novel approach to study Nav1.7 function in cultured rat sensory neurons. We used live cell imaging combined with electrical field stimulation to evoke and record action potential-driven calcium transients in the neurons. We have shown that the tarantula venom peptide Protoxin-II, a known Nav1.7 subtype selective blocker, inhibited electrical field stimulation-evoked calcium responses in dorsal root ganglia neurons with an IC50 of 72 nM, while it had no activity in embryonic hippocampal neurons. The results obtained in the live cell imaging assay were supported by patch-clamp studies as well as by quantitative PCR and Western blotting experiments that confirmed the presence of Nav1.7 mRNA and protein in dorsal root ganglia but not in embryonic hippocampal neurons. Conclusions The findings presented here point to a selective effect of Protoxin-II in sensory neurons and helped to validate a new method for investigating and comparing Nav1.7 pharmacology in sensory versus central nervous system neurons. This will help in the characterisation of the selectivity of novel Nav1.7 modulators using native ion channels and will provide the basis for the development of higher throughput models for enabling pain-relevant phenotypic screening.

Structural and Functional Architecture of AMPA-Type Glutamate Receptors and Their Auxiliary Proteins.

AMPA receptors (AMPARs) are tetrameric ion channels that together with other ionotropic glutamate receptors (iGluRs), the NMDA and kainate receptors, mediate a majority of excitatory neurotransmission in the central nervous system. Whereas NMDA receptors gate channels with slow kinetics, responsible primarily for generating long-term synaptic potentiation and depression, AMPARs are the main fast transduction elements at synapses and are critical for the expression of plasticity. The kinetic and conductance properties of AMPARs are laid down during their biogenesis and are regulated by post-transcriptional RNA editing, splice variation, post-translational modification, and subunit composition. Furthermore, AMPAR assembly, trafficking, and functional heterogeneity depends on a large repertoire of auxiliary subunits-a feature that is particularly striking for this type of iGluR. Here, we discuss how the subunit structure, stoichiometry, and auxiliary subunits generate a heterogeneous plethora of receptors, each tailored to fulfill a vital role in fast synaptic signaling and plasticity.

Synaptic transmission and plasticity require AMPA receptor anchoring via its N-terminal domain.

AMPA-type glutamate receptors (AMPARs) mediate fast excitatory neurotransmission and are selectively recruited during activity-dependent plasticity to increase synaptic strength. A prerequisite for faithful signal transmission is the positioning and clustering of AMPARs at postsynaptic sites. The mechanisms underlying this positioning have largely been ascribed to the receptor cytoplasmic C-termini and to AMPAR-associated auxiliary subunits, both interacting with the postsynaptic scaffold. Here, using mouse organotypic hippocampal slices, we show that the extracellular AMPAR N-terminal domain (NTD), which projects midway into the synaptic cleft, plays a fundamental role in this process. This highly sequence-diverse domain mediates synaptic anchoring in a subunit-selective manner. Receptors lacking the NTD exhibit increased mobility in synapses, depress synaptic transmission and are unable to sustain long-term potentiation (LTP). Thus, synaptic transmission and the expression of LTP are dependent upon an AMPAR anchoring mechanism that is driven by the NTD.

IVA cloning: A single-tube universal cloning system exploiting bacterial In Vivo Assembly.

In vivo homologous recombination holds the potential for optimal molecular cloning, however, current strategies require specialised bacterial strains or laborious protocols. Here, we exploit a recA-independent recombination pathway, present in widespread laboratory E.coli strains, to develop IVA (In Vivo Assembly) cloning. This system eliminates the need for enzymatic assembly and reduces all molecular cloning procedures to a single-tube, single-step PCR, performed in <2 hours from setup to transformation. Unlike other methods, IVA is a complete system, and offers significant advantages over alternative methods for all cloning procedures (insertions, deletions, site-directed mutagenesis and sub-cloning). Significantly, IVA allows unprecedented simplification of complex cloning procedures: five simultaneous modifications of any kind, multi-fragment assembly and library construction are performed in approximately half the time of current protocols, still in a single-step fashion. This system is efficient, seamless and sequence-independent, and requires no special kits, enzymes or proprietary bacteria, which will allow its immediate adoption by the academic and industrial molecular biology community.