Synaptic plasticity is thought to be integral to learning and memory. The two most common forms of plasticity are long-term potentiation (LTP) and long-term depression (LTD), both of which can be supported either by presynaptic changes in transmitter release probability (Pr), or by postsynaptic changes in AMPA receptor number. It is generally thought that the induction of LTP and LTD at Schaffer-collateral synapses in the hippocampus depends on the activation of NMDA receptors (GluN). Recent studies, however, have demonstrated that both increases and decreases in Pr can be induced under blockade of postsynaptic GluN receptors, suggesting that the activation of postsynaptic GluN receptors by glutamate is only a strict requirement for postsynaptic plasticity. In this thesis, I therefore re-examined the role of glutamate in presynaptic plasticity. I used single synapse imaging along with electrophysiological and pharmacological techniques to independently manipulate and monitor the levels of glutamatergic signalling during synaptic activity. I discovered that glutamate is inhibitory and unnecessary for the induction of LTP at the presynaptic locus. My findings support a novel model of presynaptic plasticity in which the net activity-dependent changes in Pr at an active presynaptic terminal is jointly determined by two opposing processes that can be simultaneously active: 1) postsynaptic depolarization, which, via the activation of L-type voltage-gated Ca²⁺ channels, increases Pr by driving the synthesis and release of nitric oxide from neuronal dendrites and 2) glutamate release, which through the activation of presynaptic GluN receptors, decreases Pr. Computationally, this model suggests that plasticity functions to reduce prediction-errors that arise during synaptic activity, and, thereby offers a biologically plausible mechanism by which neuronal networks may optimize learning at the level of single synapses.

Calcium ions (Ca2+) are involved in almost all neuronal functions, providing the link between electrical signals and cellular activity. This work examines the mechanisms by which a neuron can regulate the movement and sequestration of Ca2+ through specific channels such that this ubiquitous ion can encode specific functions. My initial focus was using intracellular calcium ([Ca2+]i) imaging techniques to study the influence of the inhibition of specific voltage gated calcium channels (VGCC) by ethanol on a depolarization induced rise in [Ca2+]i in neurohypophysial nerve terminals. This research took an unexpected turn when I observed an elevation of [Ca2+]i during perfusion with ethanol containing solutions. Control experiments showed this to be an artifactual result not directly attributable to ethanol. It was necessary to track down the source of this artifact in order to proceed with future ethanol experiments. The source of the artifact turned out to be a contaminant leaching from I.V. drip chambers. Due to potential health implications stemming from the use of these drip chambers in a clinical setting as well as potential artifactual results in the ethanol field where these chambers are commonly used, I choose to investigate this phenomenon more rigorously. The agent responsible for this effect was shown to be di(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate (DEHP), a widely used plasticizer that has been shown to be carcinogenic in rats and mice. The extraction of this contaminant from the I.V. drip chamber, as measured by spectrophotometry, was time-dependent, and was markedly accelerated by the presence of ethanol in the solution. DEHP added to saline solution caused a rise in [Ca2+]i similar to that elicited by the contaminant containing solution. The rise in calcium required transmembrane flux through membrane channels. Blood levels of DEHP in clinical settings have been shown to exceed the levels which we found to alter [Ca2+]i. This suggests that acute alterations in intracellular calcium should be considered in addition to long-term effects when determining the safety of phthalate-containing plastics. As part of a collaboration between Steven Treistman and Robert Messing's laboratory at UCSF, I participated in a study of how ethanol regulates N-type calcium channels which are known to be inhibited acutely, and upregulated in the chronic presence of ethanol. Specific mRNA splice variants encoding N-type channels were investigated using ribonuclease protection assays and real-time PCR. Three pairs of N-type specific α-subunit Cav2.2 splice variants were examined, with exposure to ethanol observed to increase expression of one alternative splice form in a linker that lacks six bases encoding the amino acids glutamate and threonine (ΔET). Whole cell electrophysiological recordings that I carried out demonstrated a faster rate of channel activation and a shift in the voltage dependence of activation to more negative potentials after chronic alcohol exposure, consistent with increased expression of ΔET variants. These results demonstrate that chronic ethanol exposure not only increases the abundance of N-type calcium channels, but also increases the expression of a Cav2.2 splice variant with kinetics predicted to support a larger and faster rising intracellular calcium signal. This is the first demonstration that ethanol can up-regulate ion channel function through expression of a specific mRNA splice variant, defining a new mechanism underlying the development of drug addiction. Depolarizing a neuron opens voltage gated Ca2+ channels (VGCC), leading to an influx of Ca2+ ions into the cytoplasm, where Ca2+ sensitive signaling cascades are stimulated. How does the ubiquitous calcium ion selectively modulate a large array of neuronal functions? Concurrent electrophysiology and ratiometric calcium imaging were used to measure transmembrane Ca2+ current and the resulting rise and decay of [Ca2+]i, showing that equal amounts of Ca2+ entering through N-type and L-type voltage gated Ca2+ channels result in significantly different [Ca2+]i temporal profiles. When the contribution of N-type channels was reduced, a faster [Ca2+]i decay was observed. Conversely, when the contribution of L-type channels was reduced, [Ca2+]i decay was slower. Potentiating L-type current or inactivating N-type channels both resulted in a more rapid decay of [Ca2+]i. Channel-specific differences in [Ca2+]i decay rates were abolished by depleting intracellular Ca2+ stores suggesting the involvement of Ca2+-induced Ca2+ release (CICR). I was able to conclude that Ca2+ entering through N-type, but not L-type channels, is amplified by ryanodine receptor mediated CICR. Channel-specific activation of CICR generates a unique intracellular Ca2+ signal depending on the route of entry, potentially encoding the selective activation of a subset of Ca2+ -sensitive processes within the neuron.

Submitted by Ana Maria Fiscina Sampaio (fiscina@bahia.fiocruz.br) on 2012-11-27T18:17:23Z No. of bitstreams: 1 Carla Patrícia Novais Luz Efeito agudo... 1997.pdf: 28638306 bytes, checksum: 690203708866521de7b4f58b702d4398 (MD5) / Made available in DSpace on 2012-11-27T18:17:23Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 1 Carla Patrícia Novais Luz Efeito agudo... 1997.pdf: 28638306 bytes, checksum: 690203708866521de7b4f58b702d4398 (MD5) Previous issue date: 1997 / Fundação Oswaldo Cruz. Centro de Pesquisas Gonçalo Moniz. Salvador, Bahia, Brasil / Trabalho realizado com o objetivo de estudar os possíveis efeitos da injeção intracerebroventricular aguda de chumbo e cádmio sobre a função renal. Ratos Wistar machos receberam duas sobrecargas hídrica oral de 5% do peso corporal com intervalo de 60 minutos. Vinte minutos após a segunda sobrecarga hídrica os animais receberam injeções de PbAc e CdCb no terceiro ventrículo em três diferentes doses (0.03, 0.3, 3.0 nmol/rato), sendo comparados ao grupo tratado com salina. Ambos os metais induziram um aumento significante na exaeção de sódio e potássio, sem nenhuma modificação no fluxo urinário. O pré-tratamento com losarían, um antagonista seletivo dos receptores aiigiotensinérgicos ATI (10,8 nmol/rato no terceiro ventrículo 10 minutos antes da injeção cenü'al dos metais), inibiu o efeito natriurético e kaliuréüco induzido pelo chumbo. Quanto ao cádmio o losarían foi capaz apenas de inibir o efeito natriurético, não interferindo na kaliurese.O pré-tralamento com gadolinio, um bloqueador dos canais de cálcio voltagem-dependentes (0.3 nmol/rato no terceiro ventrículo 20 minutos antes da injeção central dos melais), reverteu o aumento na excreção de sódio e potássio induzido pela administração central de PbAc e CdCli. Esses dados indicam que o aumento na natriurese e kaliurese é um efeito agudo da injeção central de cádmio e chumbo. A natriurese observada nos animais tratados com com esses metais parece depender da integridade funcional das vias angiotensinérgicas centrais já que esta foi revertida pelo losartan. Entretanto, a resposta kaliurética observada nos animais tratados com cádmio não é dependente do componente angiotensinérgico central, já que o losartan não foi capaz de reverter a kaliurese observada nos animais tratados com cádmio.O Gadolinio, um bloqueador dos canais de cálcio voltagem-dependentes, é capaz de reverter o efeito natriurético e kahurétíco induzido pelo cádmio e chumbo. Isso sugere, que as ações do chumbo e do cádmio dependem da integridade funcional dos canais de cálcio. Nos animais que receberam apenas a injeção central de gadolinio não foi observado nenhum efeito na exaeção de sódio e potássio. Assim, sugerimos que os metais entram na célula através dos canais de cálcio e, uma vez dentro da célula, interagem com alguns passos bioquímicos dependentes de cálcio levando a alterações na neurotransmissão que induzem a resposta aqui observada. / In the present work we studied the effects of acute intracerebroventricular injections of lead and cadmium on the central control of kidney function. Wistar, adult, male rats received an oral water load equivalent to 10% of their body weight. Twenty minutes after the water load experimental animals received third ventricle injections of PbAc or CdClj in three different doses (0.03, 0.3 and 3.0 nmol/rat) being compared to saline-treated controls. The injection of both metals induced a significant inaease in renal sodium and potassium excretion. Urine flow was not affected by the injections of the metals. Central pretreatment with losartan, a specific angiotensin II ATI receptor antagonist (10.8 nmol/rat into the third ventricle, 10 minutes before the injection of the metals) inhibited botli natriuretic and kaliuretic effects of lead administration. Losartan pretreatment was able to block the natriuretic effect of cadmium injections being unable to modify the kaliuretic effect of this metal. On the other hand, third ventricle injections of gadolinium, a voltage-dependent calcium channels blocker (0.3 nmol/rat 20 minutes before the central injection of the metals) reversed the increase in both natriuretic and kaliuretic response evoked by lead and cadmium administration. These data indicate that natriuresis and kaliuresis enhancement is an acute effect of central injections of both lead and cadmium. The inaeased renal sodium exaetion observed in animals receiving both metals seems to rely on a central angiotensin Il-dependent mechanism since it is reversed by losartan. However, the kaliuretic response observed in cadmium-treated animals is not dependent on this central angiotensinergic component, since losartan is unable to reverse the inaeased renal potassium excretion observed in animals treated with cadmium.Gadolinium, a voltage-dependent calcium channels blocker, is able to reverse the metal-induced kaliuretic and natriuretic effects here observed. Thus, we think that the present actions of lead and cadmium seem to require the functional integrity of calcium channels. The central injection of gadolinium in animals free of metals is devoid of any effect on renal sodium and potassium excretion. It is suggested that the metals enter the brain cell via calcium channels and, once inside the cells, interact with some calcium-related biochemical step leading to an altered neurotransmission state that induces the responses h^e observed.

La douleur est une expérience désagréable qui fait partie de notre vie. Quand elle ne dure pas longtemps, elle est un signal d’alarme pour notre organisme. Cependant malheureusement, dans certaines conditions pathologiques, elle se prolonge dans le temps, elle devient alors chronique, intolérable, et nécessite un traitement qui ne suffit pas toujours à soulager le patient, un traitement qui dispose une efficacité limitée avec des effets secondaires indésirables non négligeables. Il est crucial alors d’améliorer nos connaissances sur les mécanismes enclenchés dans la transmission douloureuse pour développer des nouveaux outils thérapeutiques. Dans ce contexte, des études menées ces dernières années dans notre laboratoire ont indiqué que les neurones de la corne dorsale de la moelle épinière présentent des propriétés intrinsèques d’amplification des messages afférents douloureux qui reposent notamment sur des courants calciques via les canaux calciques de type L. Pour cela, le rôle de ces canaux L et plus particulièrement le rôle exact de chaque canal : Cav1.2 et Cav1.3, les deux seuls iso-formes des canaux L exprimés dans la corne dorsale de la moelle épinière, dans la sensibilisation douloureuse a été étudié dans la première partie de ce présent travail. Nous avons étudié chez le rat, in vivo, et en utilisant une approche computationnelle pour simuler l’activité neuronale, l’impact de ces courants Cav1.2 et Cav1.3, à la fois sur le phénomène de Wind-up, une forme de sensibilisation à court terme, et sur un modèle de neuropathie périphérie (SNL) caractérisé par une forme de sensibilisation à long terme. Nous avons pu montrer que la présence de Cav1.3 (mais pas de Cav1.2) est crucial pour l’expression du Wind-up quel que soit le contexte physiopathologique (contrôle/neuropathie), alors que la suppression de Cav1.2 (mais pas de Cav1.3) diminue significativement l’expression du comportement douloureux dans le contexte de neuropathie. D’autre part, il a été montré également dans notre laboratoire que les récepteurs métabotropiques de groupe I (mGluRs I), récepteurs du Glutamate, principal neurotransmetteur excitateur dans la transmission nociceptive, interagissent avec ces canaux L en modulant leur activité. Dans des conditions pathologiques telles que les conditions des douleurs inflammatoires le rôle de ces canaux L est controversé, et si l’interaction entre les mGluRs I et les canaux L est toujours présente dans ces conditions inflammatoires est mal connue. Nous avons décidé alors d’étudier dans la deuxième partie de ce travail le rôle de ces canaux L, et leur interaction avec les mGluRs I dans les conditions des douleurs inflammatoires. En utilisant des approches : l’électrophysiologie extracellulaire in vivo, pharmacologie, comportement, les injections intrathécales, et biologie moléculaire, nous avons montré que l’activation pharmacologique des mGluRs I augmente la transmission nociceptive et que cet effet nécessite l’activation des canaux calciques de type L dans les conditions contrôles. D'une façon inattendue, dans le contexte d’inflammation, nos résultats ont montré que l’activation des mGluRs I induit un effet totalement opposé anti-nociceptif et que cet effet est indépendant des canaux L. En plus, nous confirmons que le blocage des canaux L est sans effet dans le cas d’inflammation. D’autre part, nous avons montré que l’effet contradictoire dû à l’activation des mGluRs I passe par un renforcement de la transmission inhibitrice. En conclusion, nos résultats montrent l’intérêt de cibler les canaux calciques de type L et plus précisément le canal Cav1.2 dans le cadre des douleurs chroniques neuropathiques. De plus, nous montrons aussi que les mGluRs I pourraient être des bons candidats thérapeutiques dans le contexte inflammatoire. / Pain is an unpleasant experience which is part of our lives. When it does not last long time, it is often a warning sign for our organism. However unfortunately, in some pathological cases, it can last a long time, and become chronic, intolerable, and requires a treatment that is not always enough to relieve the patient, a treatment that has limited efficacy with significant undesirable side effects. It is important now to ameliorate our knowledge about the mechanisms implicated in pain transmission to develop new therapeutic tools. In this context, many studies conducted in recent years in our laboratory have indicated that the neurons in the dorsal horn of the spinal cord express intrinsic amplification properties of afferents input rely on calcium currents via the L type calcium channels. For that, the role of L type calcium channels and especially the role exact of each canal: Cav1.2 and Cav1.3, the two only iso-forms of L channels expressed in the dorsal horn of the spinal cord, in the painful sensitization has been studied in the first part of this present work. We studied in rat, in vivo, and by using a computational approach to simulate neuronal activity, the impact of these currents Cav1.2 and Cav1.3, both on the phenomenon of Wind-up, a form of short term sensitization, and in the model of a peripheral neuropathy model (SNL) characterized by a form of long-term sensitization. We showed that the presence of Cav1.3 (but not the Cav1.2) is important for Wind-up’s expression regardless of the physio-pathological context (control / neuropathy), whereas the removal of Cav1.2 (but not Cav1.3) decreases significantly the expression of the pain behavior in the context of neuropathy. In another side, it has been shown in our laboratory that group I metabotropic glutamatergic receptors (mGluRs I), receptors of Glutamate, the main excitatory neurotransmitter in nociceptive transmission, interact with L channels by modulating their activity. In pathological condition such in the condition of inflammatory pain the role of these channels L is controversial, and if the interaction between mGluRs I and L channels is always present in these inflammatory conditions is poorly known. We decided then to study in the second part of this work the role of these channels, and their interaction with mGluRs I in the condition of inflammatory pain. By using electrophysiological extracellular recording, pharmacology, behavior, intrathecal injections, and molecular biology, we showed that pharmacological activation of mGluRs I increase the nociceptive transmission and that this effect requires the activation of L type calcium channels in control conditions. Unexpectedly, in the context of the inflammation, our results show that activation of mGluRs I induce an anti-nociceptive effect and this effect is independent of L channels. Moreover, we confirmed that the blockade of L calcium channels is without effect in case of the inflammation. Furthermore, we showed that the contradictory effect due to the activation of mGluRs I pass through a strengthening of inhibitory transmission. In conclusion, our results show the interest to target L type calcium channels and more specifically the Cav1.2 channel in case of neuropathic chronic pain. We also show that mGluRs I could be good therapeutic candidates in the inflammatory context.

Made available in DSpace on 2015-05-14T12:59:49Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 1 arquivototal.pdf: 1843957 bytes, checksum: 23eff6067396c6f267138994bec5be02 (MD5) Previous issue date: 2012-02-13 / Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior - CAPES / The studed Herbal Product is indicated for treatment of intestinal colic and constipation, though there are no scientific data, that prove its efficacy. Thus, this study aimed in preclinical pharmacologic trials to evaluate its laxative and spasmolytic action and elucidate its possible pathway. For this, pharmacological tests were carried out in vivo to evaluate its stimulating effect on the gastrointestinal tract and in vitro assays in order to evaluate its spasmodic activity. The Herbal Product increased small intestinal motility in male mice at doses of 100mg/kg (161.66 ± 14.86%, n=6) and 200mg/kg (151.04 ± 17.17%, n=6) compared to control (100.00 ± 10.49%, n=6). The intestinal transit of animals constipated by loperamide (3mg/kg/day, three days) was reduced to 66.25 ± 7.49% (n=8) compared to the control group (100 ± 5.16%, n=8). In the constipated animals treated with doses of 100 and 200mg/kg (98.42 ± 6.33%, n=7) (99.32 ± 8.47%, n=7) was observed the normalization of the traffic bowel. Similar results were observed for 24 hours in the quantification of rat feces constipated by loperamide (3mg/kg/day, three days). The herbal medicine induced return of quantity of feces normal levels (7.92 ± 1.01g, n=6) in constipated animals (4.01 ± 1.43g, n=6), at dose of 100mg/kg (11.24 ± 2.90g, n=6) and 200mg/kg (8.70 ± 2.01g, n=6). These results demonstrate the stimulating action of this preparation in the intestine of the animals with potential laxative effect. Adding increasing and cumulative (0.01-1000μg/mL) of this product did not significantly alter spontaneous contractions in guinea pig ileum. However, its addition (1-1000μg/mL) caused a relaxation in this organ pre-contracted with 1μM carbachol, Emax= 67.61 ± 6.25%; EC50 269.77μg/mL (215.8 to 337.1), n=6; histamine 1μM (Emax= 58.68 ± 7.17%, EC50= 144.10μg/mL (86.65 to 239.70), n=6, and 40mM KCl (Emax= 50.76 ± 3.79%; EC50= 91.94μg/mL (57.97 to 145.80), n=7, no significant difference in the powers, suggesting an action of this product on a step common to these three agents. The relaxing action of this preparation was attenuated in ileum pre-contracted with 60mM KCl (Emax= 39.28 ± 1.95%, n=7) and the efficacy and potency were also significantly attenuated in the presence of potassium channel blockers, 5mM TEA, Emax= 22.79  2.99%; EC50 93.41μg/mL (54.89 to 159.00), n=5; and 5mM CsCl; Emax= 29.44  6.24%, EC50= 112,60μg/mL (44.09 to 287.80), n=5, suggesting the participation of these channels in relaxation. In contractions induced by 300nM S(-)BayK-8644, Cav channel agonist, the effect induced by phytomedicine, Emax= 39.28 ± 1.95%, EC50= 199.70μg/mL (120.50 to 239.00), n=8, was significantly lower when compared to carbachol, indicating the involvement of Cav in its effect. In preparations pre-incubated with 1μM propranolol (Emax= 34.45 ± 4.97%, n=6), the Emax was attenuated, suggesting also the involvement of β-adrenergic receptors in the effect induced by preparation. Thus, we conclude that the Herbal Product acts stimulating the intestine of rats and mice, especially in constipated animals and has spasmolytic activity in guinea pig ileum probably due to opening of K+ channels, inhibition of Ca2+ channels and activation of β-adrenoceptor. / O Produto Fitoterápico estudado é indicado no tratamento de cólicas intestinais e constipação, entretanto não apresenta dados científicos que comprovem sua eficácia. Assim, este estudo objetivou realizar ensaios farmacológicos pré-clínicos para avaliar sua ação laxante e sua ação espasmolítica, bem como elucidar seu provável mecanismo de ação. Para tal, realizaram-se ensaios farmacológicos in vivo para avaliar seu efeito estimulante sobre o trato gastrointestinal e ensaios in vitro com o intuito de avaliar sua atividade espasmolítica. O Produto Fitoterápico aumentou a motilidade do intestino delgado em camundongos machos, nas doses de 100mg/kg (161,66 ± 14,86%; n=6) e 200mg/kg (151,04 ± 17,17%, n=6) quando comparados ao controle (100,00 ± 10,49%; n=6). O trânsito intestinal de animais constipados por loperamida (3mg/kg/dia, três dias) foi reduzido a 66,25 ± 7,49% (n=8) em comparação ao grupo controle (100 ± 5,16%; n=8). Nos animais constipados e tratados com doses de 100 e 200mg/kg (98,42 ± 6,33%, n=7); (99,32 ± 8,47%; n=7), observou-se a normalização do trânsito intestinal. Resultados semelhantes foram encontrados na quantificação por 24 horas de fezes de ratos constipados por loperamida (3mg/kg/dia, três dias), em que o Produto Fitoterápico induziu o retorno da quantidade de fezes a níveis normais (7,92 ± 1,01g; n=6) de animais constipados (4,01 ± 1,43g; n=6), tanto na dose de 100mg/kg (11,24 ± 2,90g; n=6) como na dose de 200mg/kg (8,70 ± 2,01g; n=6). Estes resultados demonstram a ação estimulante da preparação estudada no intestino destes animais com potencial efeito laxante. A adição crescente e cumulativa (0,01-1000μg/mL) deste produto não alterou significativamente as contrações espontâneas em íleo de cobaia. Entretanto, sua adição (1-1000μg/mL) promoveu relaxamento neste órgão pré-contraído com carbacol 1μM, Emax= 67,61 ± 6,25%; CE50 269,77μg/mL (215,8 337,1); n=6, com histamina 1μM, Emax= 58,68 ± 7,17%; CE50= 144,10 μg/mL (86,65 239,70); n=6, ou com KCl 40mM, Emax= 50,76 ± 3,79%; CE50= 91,94μg/mL (57,97 145,80); n=7, não apresentando diferença estatística nas potências, o que sugere uma ação sobre uma etapa comum a estes três agentes. A ação relaxante desta preparação foi atenuada em íleo pré-contraído com KCl 60mM (Emax= 39,28 ± 1,95%; n=7) e sua eficácia e potência também foram significantemente atenuados na presença de bloqueadores de canais para K+, 5mM TEA, Emax= 22,79  2,99%; CE50 93,41μg/mL (54,89 159,00); n=5, e 5mM CsCl, Emax= 29,44  6,24%; CE50= 112,60μg/mL (44,09 287,80); n=5, sugerindo participação destes canais em seu relaxamento. Em contrações induzidas por 300nM S(-)-BayK 8644, agonista de canais Cav, o efeito induzido pelo Produto Fitoterápico Emax= 39,28 ± 1,95%; CE50= 199,70μg/mL (120,50 239,00); n=8, foi significativamente menor, quando comparado ao carbacol, indicando a participação dos Cav em seu efeito. Em preparações pré-incubadas com 1μM propranolol (Emax= 34,45 ± 4,97%; n=6), o Emax foi atenuado, sugerindo também a participação de receptores β-adrenérgicos no efeito induzido pela preparação. Assim, concluimos que o Produto Fitoterápico age estimulando o intestino de ratos e camundongos, principalmente em animais constipados e apresenta atividade espasmolítica em íleo de cobaia provavelmente pela abertura de canais para K+, inibição de canais para Ca2+ e ativação de β-adrenoceptores.

De nombreuses études expérimentales montrent que les canaux calciques activés par la dépolarisation membranaire, tout particulièrement les canaux calciques de type T (canaux T), jouent un rôle important dans la physiopathologie des épilepsies. Il existe trois isoformes des canaux T, Cav3.1, Cav3.2 et Cav3.3, toutes exprimées au niveau neuronal. De manière classique, c'est dans l'épilepsie absence où les canaux T ont été le plus étudiés. Les canaux T jouent également un rôle dans des modèles d'épilepsie partielle secondairement généralisée, comme le modèle pilocarpine qui mime l'épilepsie du lobe temporal (ELT). Jusqu'à présent ces canaux ne possédaient pas de pharmacologie spécifique, mais plusieurs molécules récemment synthétisées, en particulier le TTA-A2, apparaissent sélectives des canaux T. Le premier objectif de ma thèse était d'étudier l'implication des canaux T dans l'épileptogenèse. Pour cela nous avons traité des souris au TTA-A2 pendant la phase de latence du modèle pilocarpine (modèle ELT). Nos conditions expérimentales ne nous ont pas permis de conclure quant à une action protectrice du TTA-A2 dans ce modèle. Le deuxième objectif était d'étudier l'effet du TTA-A2 sur des modèles murins de convulsions généralisées : le modèle du Maximal Electroshock Seizure (MES) et le modèle pentylènetétrazole (PTZ). Deux lignées de souris inactivées pour les isoformes Cav3.1 ou Cav3.2 (KO Cav3.1 et KO Cav3.2) ont également été caractérisées dans cette étude. Nous montrons que le TTA-A2 réduit l'apparition des crises toniques dans le modèle MES et que les souris KO Cav3.1 sont également protégées, suggérant un rôle prépondérant des canaux Cav3.1 dans le développement des crises toniques. / Numerous experimental studies show that calcium channels activated by membrane depolarization, especially T-type calcium channels (T-channels), play an important role in the physiopathology of epilepsy. There are three T-channels isoforms, Cav3.1, Cav3.2 and Cav3.3, all expressed in neuronal level. Conventionally, T-channels were the most studied in absence epilepsy. T-channels are also involved in partial secondarily generalized epilepsy models, as the pilocarpine model that mimics temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE).Up to now, there was no specific pharmacology for this channels, but several molecules have recently been synthesized, particularly TTA-A2, appearing selective T-channels. The first goal of my thesis was to study the T-channels involvement in epileptogenesis. For this purpose we treated mice with TTA-A2 during the silent phase of the pilocarpine model (TLE model). Our experimental conditions do not allow us to conclude about a possible protective action of TTA-A2 on this model. The second goal was to study TTA-A2 effects on mice models of generalized seizures: the Maximal Electroshock model (MES) and the pentylenetetrazole model (PTZ). Two mice strains knock-out for Cav3.1 or Cav3.2 (KO Cav3.1 and KO Cav3.2) have also been characterized in this study. We show that the TTA-A2 reduces the appearance of tonic seizures in the MES model and the KO Cav3.1 mice are also protected, suggesting a preponderant role of Cav3.1 channels in the development of tonic seizures.

Submitted by (lucia.rodrigues@ufrpe.br) on 2016-05-31T15:10:49Z No. of bitstreams: 1 Bruno Mendes Tenorio.pdf: 4101398 bytes, checksum: d81bf09fb306302eb9abbcd6d926a6a7 (MD5) / Made available in DSpace on 2016-05-31T15:10:49Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 1 Bruno Mendes Tenorio.pdf: 4101398 bytes, checksum: d81bf09fb306302eb9abbcd6d926a6a7 (MD5) Previous issue date: 2011-12-12 / In recent decades, humans have been exposed to various exogenous physical agents, such as high temperatures emitted by industrial devices and electromagnetic fields emitted by the electricity distribution networks and electronic devices. Researches demonstrated that these agents can cause reproductive disorders. The chapter 1 of this study aimed to investigate the possible effects of low frequency EMF exposure of 60 Hz and 1 mT from day 13 of gestation up to puberty at 21 postnatal days. The results showed that exposure to EMF reduced parameters related to the lumen, epithelium and seminiferous tubules. It was also observed an increase in the volume of blood vessels and connective tissue cells in animals exposed to EMF. The plasma testosterone did not change due to EMF exposure. The exposure to EMF of 60 Hz and 1 mT from gestation to puberty can induce a delay in testicular development. In chapter 2, the aim was to evaluate the effects of exposure to low frequency EMF (60 Hz and 1 mT) from the 13th day of gestation up to 90 postnatal days (adult). The plasma testosterone concentration was not changed by EMF exposure. However, the histopathological and histomorphometrical analysis showed testicular degeneration in a subset of animals exposed to EMF. The degenerative process severity varied among affected animals, indicating an individual sensitivity to EMF. The electron microscopy analysis also showed testicular degeneration, the main change was high electrodense mitochondria with loss of normal organization and cristae. The exposure to EMF of 60 Hz and 1 mT seems to alter spermatogenesis and reduce the fertility. Chapter 3 aimed to analyze the effects of heat shock (43 °C / 15 min.) and Hsp90 inhibition on CaV3 T-type calcium channels and calciumactivated potassium channels (BKCa) in Leydig cells. The results showed that exposure to heat shock induced a reduction in BKCa channels steady-state current (49.8%), maximum conductance (68.9%) and activation time constant (31.9%). Heat shock slowed the BKCa channels activation and reduced its voltage dependence. Hsp90 inhibition did not change BKCa channels. The CaV3 channels current was not affected by heat shock or Hsp90 inhibition. The heat shock can inhibit BKCa channels, the Hsp90 does not seem to be involved in this process. / Nas últimas décadas, os seres humanos vêm sendo expostos a vários agentes físicos exógenos, como temperaturas elevadas induzidas por equipamentos industriais e a exposição aos campos eletromagnéticos (CEM) emitidos por aparelhos eletrônicos. Pesquisas vêm demonstrando que estes agentes podem gerar distúrbios reprodutivos. O objetivo do capítulo 1 do presente trabalho foi investigar o possível efeito da exposição ao CEM de baixa frequência de 60 Hz e 1 mT desde o 13º dia de gestação até a puberdade aos 21 dias pós-natal. Os resultados demonstraram que a exposição ao CEM reduziu os parâmetros relacionados ao lúmen, epitélio e túbulos seminíferos. Também foi observado o aumento no volume dos vasos sanguíneos e das células do tecido conjuntivo nos animais expostos ao CEM. A testosterona plasmática não se alterou devido à exposição ao CEM. A exposição ao CEM de 60 Hz e 1 mT desde a gestação até a puberdade pode induzir o retardo no desenvolvimento testicular. No capítulo 2, o objetivo foi avaliar o efeito da exposição ao CEM de baixa frequência (60 Hz e 1 mT) desde o 13º dia de gestação até os 90 dias pós-natal (adulto). A concentração da testosterona plasmática não foi alterada devido à exposição ao CEM. Entretanto, as análises histopatológicas e histomorfométricas demonstraram degeneração testicular em um sub-grupo dos animais expostos ao CEM. A gravidade do processo degenerativo variou entre os indivíduos afetados, indicando uma sensibilidade individual ao CEM. A análise de microscopia eletrônica também demonstrou degeneração testicular, sendo a principal alteração observada a presença de mitocôndrias eletrodensas e com perda da sua organização e cristas. A exposição ao CEM de 60 Hz e 1 mT parece alterar a espermatogênese e reduzir a fertilidade. No capítulo 3, o presente trabalho objetivou analisar os efeitos do choque térmico (43ºC / 15 min.) e da inibição da Hsp90 nos canais de cálcio CaV3 tipo-T e potássio ativado por cálcio (BKCa) em células de Leydig. Os resultados obtidos revelaram que nos canais BKCa o choque térmico reduziu a corrente do estado estacionário em 49,8%, a condutância máxima em 68,9% e a constante de tempo de ativação em 31,9%. O choque térmico tornou mais lenta a ativação dos canais BKCa e reduziu sua dependência de voltagem. A inibição da Hsp90 não alterou os canais BKCa. A corrente dos canais CaV3 tipo-T não foi afetada pelo estresse térmico ou pela inibição da Hsp90. A exposição das células de Leydig à temperatura elevada pode inibir os canais BKCa, a Hsp90 parece não estar envolvida neste processo.

Orientador: Everardo Magalhães Carneiro / Dissertação (mestrado) - Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Instituto de Biologia / Made available in DSpace on 2018-08-17T13:23:02Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 1 Trevisan_Amon_M.pdf: 3520740 bytes, checksum: 90ddd0dc662586a0279a2c1e1f000b3b (MD5) Previous issue date: 2010 / Resumo: Os canais de cálcio voltagem-dependentes (CaV) são proteínas de membrana plasmática que conduzem cálcio, e são ativados pela despolarização da mesma promovendo influxo do íon, que serve como um segundo mensageiro intracelular, transformando sinais elétricos em químicos. Esse processo controla diversos eventos intracelulares, como exocitose, endocitose, contração muscular, transmissão sináptica e metabolismo. Em células beta (B), a secreção de insulina estimulada por glicose e/ou leucina ocorre por diversos sinais que levam à despolarização da membrana e influxo de cálcio, que age no processo de acoplamento estímulo/secreção dos grânulos contendo insulina. É possível a existência de efeitos sinérgicos entre o metabolismo da leucina e glicose, permitindo um controle fino da expressão gênica, produção e secreção de insulina em células B. Recentemente demonstramos que animais que sofreram um processo de restrição protéica modificam o mecanismo de secreção de insulina alterando a resposta secretória para diferentes secretagogos (glicose, aminoácidos, etc.). Nesse trabalho, buscamos elucidar o envolvimento dos íons cálcio nos processos de secreção de insulina, bem como avaliar a expressão gênica e protéica das subunidades alfa1 e beta2 do canal nos diferentes grupos estudados. Observamos uma redução na expressão gênica das duas subunidades do CaV em ilhotas de animais desnutridos e uma tendência de recuperação na expressão protéica da subunidade ?1 em animais desnutridos suplementados com leucina. As áreas abaixo das curvas (AUC) de cálcio das ilhotas não apresentaram diferença entre os grupos quando estimulados com alta (16,7 mM) glicose e 40 mM de K+, porém, há um aumento na área abaixo da curva quando estimuladas com tolbutamida no grupo desnutrido suplementado com leucina (LPL). As secreções de insulina frente a inibidores de canal de cálcio apresentaram resultados similares frente a alta glicose e tolbutamida, porém apresentando valores absolutos menores. Ilhotas provenientes de animais LPL apresentaram recuperação da taxa de liberação de insulina quando estimuladas com ácido ketoisocapróico, atingindo valores similares aos controles. Essa recuperação não foi observada quando estimulamos as ilhotas com cloreto de potássio. Observamos também uma redução na área das ilhotas de animais desnutridos, com recuperação a valores equivalentes aos controles quando há suplementação com leucina. Nossos dados sugerem que o manejo dos íons cálcio possa não estar diretamente envolvido na melhora da secreção de insulina por ilhotas de animais desnutridos suplementados com leucina, mesmo havendo uma melhora na expressão protéica da subunidade alpha1 do Cav em ilhotas de animais LPL, através de uma possível modulação pós-transcricional. / Abstract: Voltage-dependent calcium channels (CaV) are plasma membrane proteins that lead calcium, and are activated by depolarization of the same by promoting the influx of this ion, which serves as an intracellular second messenger, turning electrical signals into chemical. This process controls several intracellular events such as exocytosis, endocytosis, muscle contraction, synaptic transmission and metabolism. In beta cells (B), insulin secretion stimulated by glucose and/or leucine occurs by several signs that lead to membrane depolarization and calcium influx, which acts on the coupling process stimulus/secretion of granules containing insulin. It is possible that there are synergistic effects between the metabolism of glucose and leucine, allowing fine control of gene expression, production and insulin secretion in B cells. We have shown that animals which have undergone a process of protein restriction alter the mechanism of insulin secretion by altering the secretory response to different secretagogues (glucose, amino acids, etc.). In this paper we elucidate the involvement of calcium ions in the process of insulin secretion, as well assess the gene and protein expression of alpha1 and beta2 subunits of the channel in different groups. Observed a decrease in gene expression of two subunits of CaV in islets of malnourished animals and a recovery trend in protein expression of ?1 subunit in malnourished animals supplemented with leucine. The areas under the curve (AUC) for calcium of islets did not differ between groups when stimulated with high (16.7 mM) glucose and 40 mM K +, however, there is an increase in area under the curve when stimulated with tolbutamide in undernourished group supplemented with leucine (LPL). The secretions of insulin compared to calcium channel inhibitors showed similar results compared to high glucose and tolbutadima, although a smaller absolute values. Islets from LPL animals showed recovery of the rate of insulin release when stimulated with ketoisocaproic acid (KIC), reaching values similar to controls. This recovery was not observed when we stimulate the islets with potassium chloride. We also observed a reduction in the area of the islets of malnourished animals, with recovery to similar values for controls when supplementation with leucine. Our data suggest that the management of calcium ions can not be directly involved the improvement of insulin secretion by islets of malnourished animals supplemented with leucine, even with an improvement in protein expression of the alpha1 subunit of the Cav in islets of animals LPL, through a possible post-transcriptional modulation. / Mestrado / Fisiologia / Mestre em Biologia Funcional e Molecular

Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior - CAPES / The farnesol (C15H26O) is a sesquiterpene alcohol found in herbs and essential oils. Research show some beneficial properties of farnesol as: antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and chemopreventive properties. However, the farnesol futher inhibition of activity of L-type calcium channels in smooth muscle. This study sought to analyze the involvement of calcium channels L-type in the cardiodepressant farnesol response in the rat heart. To this, contractile studies were conducted on left atria drawn to rest tension 5mN (0,5gf) and subjected to field stimulation with above-threshold current pulses of the 1 Hz, kept in isolated organ vessel, submerged in Krebs-Henseleit solution (8 mL) and aerated with carbogênica mixture (95% O2 and 5% CO2). The atrial contraction force was capture by an isometric transducer. Electrocardiographic recordings were performe on isolated heart, aortic perfusion under a constant flow (10 ml / min) Langendorff type system. The hearts were keep spontaneously beating, to determine the heart rate, and in heart stimulated were determined PR interval (PRI), QT (QTi) and complex QRS. Left ventricular pressure was determined in the heart stimulated electrically by means of a balloon inflated with water at a pressure of 15 cmHg. In rat left atrium, the farnesol response to the contraction strength showed a negative inotropic effect, reducing the contraction force at 41.63% at the maximum concentration used, with an EC50 of 2.84 ± 0.19 mM. To evaluate the effect of farnesol of the positive inotropic response of CaCl2 and (±)-Bay K8644 was observed that the farnesol shifted to the right CaCl2 concentration-response curve and decreased maximum efficiency (100% to 23%) and abolished curve of (±)-Bay K8644. TEA was use to evaluate the role of K+ channels in the negative inotropic response and the maximum effect by farnesol (41.63 to 63.02%) was increased. In isolated heart, there was an increase of PRI, QTi and QRS complex, and reduced left ventricular pressure (37, 38%) and heart rate (25.22%). Thus, farnesol exerts inotropic and negative chronotropic responses in the heart by reducing current to the L-type Ca2+. / O farnesol (C15H26O) é um álcool sesquiterpênico encontrado em óleos essenciais e ervas aromáticas. Pesquisas evidenciam algumas propriedades benéficas do farnesol como: propriedades antioxidantes, anti-inflamatórias e quimiopreventivas. Entretanto, o farnesol promoveu inibição dos canais de cálcio tipo-L em músculo liso. Neste trabalho procurou-se analisar os efeitos do farnesol sobre os mecanismos contráteis e eletrofisiológicos sobre o coração de rato. Para esse fim, os estudos contráteis foram realizados em átrios esquerdo estirados a para uma tensão de repouso de 5mN (0,5gf) e submetidos a estimulação de campo com pulsos de corrente supralimiares de 1 Hz, mantido em cuba para órgão isolado, submerso em solução de Krebs-Henseleit (8 mL) e aerado com mistura carbogênica (95 % O2 e 5 % CO2). A força de contração atrial foi captada por um transdutor isométrico. Os registros eletrocardiográficos foram obtidos em coração isolado, sob perfusão aórtica de fluxo constante (10 mL/min), em sistema de Langendorff. Os corações foram mantidos com batimento espontâneo, para determinar a frequência cardíaca, e em corações estimulados foram determinados os intervalos PR (PRi), QT (QTi) e complexo QRS. A pressão ventricular esquerda foi determinada, em coração estimulado eletricamente, por meio de um balonete insuflado com água até uma pressão de 15 cmHg. Em átrio esquerdo de rato, a resposta do farnesol sobre a força de contração apresentou efeito inotrópico negativo, diminuindo a força de contração em 41,63% na concentração máxima usada, apresentando uma CE50 de 2,843 ± 0,19 mM. Ao avaliar o efeito do farnesol sobre a resposta inotrópica positiva do CaCl2 e (±)-BAY K8644 foi observado que o farnesol deslocou para direita a curva concentração-resposta do CaCl2 e diminuiu a eficácia máxima (100% para 23%) e aboliu a curva do (±)-BAY K8644. Para avaliar a participação dos canais para potássio na resposta inotrópica negativa foi utilizado TEA tendo aumento da eficácia máxima do farnesol de 41,63 para 63,02%. Em coração isolado, foi observado aumento do PRi, QTi e complexo QRS, e redução da pressão ventricular esquerda (37,38%) e frequência cardíaca (25,22%). Assim sendo, o farnesol exerce respostas inotrópicas e cronotrópicas negativas no coração, por redução das correntes para Ca2+ tipo-L.

O Transtorno Bipolar (TB) tipo I é uma doença caracterizada por episódios de mania e depressão recorrentes com importante prejuízo do funcionamento global e comprometimento das funções cognitivas. Além disso, sabe-se que o número de episódios de humor patológico ao longo da vida pode também influenciar o funcionamento cognitivo destes sujeitos. Neste cenário, ocorreu a necessidade de se investigar marcadores genéticos para disfunção cognitiva no TB com o objetivo de estudar este fenômeno. Dentre os potenciais genes responsáveis por influenciar a cognição destacam-se os polimorfismos funcionais do fator neurotrófico derivado do cérebro (BDNF), da catecol-O-metiltransferase (COMT), da apolipoproteína-E (APOE) e do canal de cálcio de baixa voltagem subunidade 1-C (CACNA1C). Sabe-se, também, que no TB os marcadores de estresse oxidativo estão aumentados durante todas as fases da doença, entretanto, não é claro qual impacto destes na disfunção cognitiva de indivíduos com TB. O objetivo dessa tese foi avaliar o desempenho cognitivo de pacientes jovens com bipolaridade tipo I e sua associação com o genótipo de BDNF, COMT, APOE e CACNA1C e também com os níveis plasmáticos de oxidação da guanosina (8-OHdG) e citosina (5-Mec) durante os episódios de humor, eutimia e em controles. Para investigar essa associação foram incluídos 116 pacientes (79 em episódio de humor patológico e 37 eutímicos) com diagnóstico de TB tipo I (DSMIV-TR); 97 controles saudáveis foram submetidos à avaliação neuropsicológica e coleta de sangue para extração de DNA visando genotipagem para BDNF (rs6265), COMT (rs4680; rs165599), APOE (rs429358 e rs7412), CACNA1C (rs1006737), 8-OhdG e 5-Mec. A análise dos dados obtidos revelou que pacientes portadores do genótipo Met/Met rs4680/rs165599 do COMT apresentam comprometimento cognitivo mais grave (função executiva, fluência verbal, memória e inteligência) comparado ao genótipo Val/Met ou Val/Val durante episódios maníacos ou mistos. Na mesma direção destes resultados, verificou-se que pacientes portadores do alelo Met rs4680 do COMT apresentam comprometimento do reconhecimento de emoções faciais em episódios de mania e depressão. Nenhum efeito do COMT foi observado em controles. O alelo de risco Met do CACNA1C se associou a um pior comprometimento executivo independente dos sintomas maníacos ou depressivos no TB, porém nenhum efeito se observou nos controles. O alelo Met do BDNF rs6265 ou a presença do alelo 4 da APOE não representa um fator que identifique um grupo com desempenho cognitivo diferenciado durante as fases do TB ou em controles. Sujeitos com TB apresentaram níveis mais elevados de 8-OHdG e tais níveis eram diretamente proporcionais ao número de episódios maníacos ao longo da vida, sugerindo um papel dos episódios hiperdopaminérgicos na oxidação das bases de DNA. Concluiu-se que a genotipagem para COMT e CACNA1C em pacientes com TB pode identificar um grupo de pacientes associados a pior disfunção cognitiva durante as fases maníacas e mistas do TB. Tal dado pode ser um indicador do envolvimento do sistema dopaminérgico e dos canais de cálcio de baixa voltagem na fisiopatologia da disfunção cognitiva no TB e deve ser explorado em outros estudos / Bipolar I disorder (BD) is a disease whose main features include severe mood swings that cause severe impairment in global functioning and cognitive domains. Moreover, the number of mood episodes throughout patients life is also associated with deterioration in cognitive functions. In this context, it is important to study genetic markers for the cognitive dysfunction observed in BD to elucidate the physiopathology of this phenomenon. The main candidates for genetic modulation of cognition are the genes brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), catechol-o-methyltransferase (COMT), apolipoprotein E (APOE) and 1-C subunit of the L-type voltage-gated calcium channel (CACNA1C). Furthermore, elevated levels of oxidative stress have been reported in BD for all types of mood episodes but no data is available on their impact on cognitive functioning of BD patients. The aim of this thesis was to investigate whether cognitive functioning of BD patients is influenced by BDNF, COMT, APOE, CACNA1C genotypes or by levels of oxidative damage to the DNA base guanosine (8-OHdG) and cytosine (5-Mec). One hundred sixteen patients (79 during mood episode and 37 euthymic) with BD type I (mania, depression or euthymia) and 97 healthy controls were submitted to neuropsychological evaluation and blood collection for DNA analysis. All subjects were genotyped for BDNF (rs6265), COMT (rs4680; rs165599), APOE (rs429358 and rs7412), CACNA1C (rs1006737), DNA levels of 8-OHdG and 5-Mec were also measured. Our results revealed that BD subjects that carried the rs4680/rs165599 Met/Met genotype had more severe cognitive dysfunction (executive function, verbal fluency, memory and intelligence) than carriers of other genotypes during manic or mixed episodes. Moreover, patients carrying the COMT rs4680 Met allele had worse performance on facial emotion recognition tests during manic and depressive episodes. BD carriers of the Met allele of CACNA1C had more severe executive dysfunction than non-carriers, regardless of manic or depressive symptoms. No effect of CACNA1C or COMT genotypes was observed in controls. The genotypes of BDNF or APOE were not associated with cognitive dysfunction in BD patients or controls. The BD group exhibited higher levels of 8-OHdG than the control group and these levels were influenced by the lifetime number of manic episodes, suggesting that hyperdopaminergic episodes may influence the oxidation of DNA bases. In summary, the genotype of COMT and CACNA1C may represent a useful tool for identifying BD subjects at risk of developing more severe cognitive dysfunction in all mood states of the disease. This evidence associating dopamine catabolism and calcium channels to degree of cognitive dysfunction in BD should be further explored by future research