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Kopp-Scheinpflug, C.

Publications and source records attributed to Kopp-Scheinpflug, C..

2 recordsLinked to original sources

Multimodal synapse analysis reveals restricted integration of transplanted neurons remodeled by TREM2

Neuron transplantation offers a promising approach for circuit restoration after injury, but depends crucially on adequate synaptic integration. Yet, our knowledge of the effects of the host injury environment on transplanted neuron (tN) network integration remains limited. Here, we used a stab wound injury model to examine how tN synapses mature and integrate using multimodal read-outs. Morphological, ultrastructural and functional electrophysiological analysis of tN synapses indicated that tN integration and functional maturation are partially stunted. Spatial transcriptomics revealed persistent inflammatory signatures at the transplant site including Trem2 upregulation. Strikingly, in an environment devoid of TREM2, synaptic integration as well as functional maturation of tNs, including action potential maturation and spontaneous firing, were almost fully rescued. Spatial transcriptomics further showed reduced inflammatory pathways and improved maturation of tNs in Trem2-/- brains. This study highlights the importance of tackling chronic inflammation for adequate tN integration.

neuroscience↗

Kv3.3 subunits control presynaptic action potential waveform and neurotransmitter release at a central excitatory synapse

Kv3 potassium currents mediate rapid repolarization of action potentials (AP), supporting fast spikes and high repetition rates. Of the four Kv3 gene family members, Kv3.1 and Kv3.3 are highly expressed in the auditory brainstem and we exploited this to test for subunit-specific roles at the calyx of Held presynaptic terminal. Deletion of Kv3.3 (but not Kv3.1) increased presynaptic AP duration and facilitated transmitter release, which in turn enhanced short-term depression during high frequency transmission. The response to sound was delayed in the Kv3.3KO, with higher spontaneous and lower evoked firing, thereby reducing signal-to-noise ratio. Computational modelling showed that the enhanced EPSC and short-term depression in the Kv3.3KO reflected increased vesicle release probability and accelerated activity-dependent vesicle replenishment. We conclude that Kv3.3 is the presynaptic delayed rectifier, enabling short duration, precisely timed APs to maintain transmission at high frequencies and during sustained synaptic activity.

neuroscience↗