Morphological and functional reversal of phenotypes in a mouse model of Rett syndrome

Robinson, L. et al. (2012) Morphological and functional reversal of phenotypes in a mouse model of Rett syndrome. Brain, 135(9), pp. 2699-2710. (doi: 10.1093/brain/aws096) (PMID:22525157) (PMCID:PMC3437019)

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Publisher's URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.1093/brain/aws096

Abstract

Rett syndrome is a neurological disorder caused by mutation of the X-linked MECP2 gene. Mice lacking functional Mecp2 display a spectrum of Rett syndrome-like signs, including disturbances in motor function and abnormal patterns of breathing, accompanied by structural defects in central motor areas and the brainstem. Although routinely classified as a neurodevelopmental disorder, many aspects of the mouse phenotype can be effectively reversed by activation of a quiescent Mecp2 gene in adults. This suggests that absence of Mecp2 during brain development does not irreversibly compromise brain function. It is conceivable, however, that deep-seated neurological defects persist in mice rescued by late activation of Mecp2. To test this possibility, we have quantitatively analysed structural and functional plasticity of the rescued adult male mouse brain. Activation of Mecp2 in ∼70% of neurons reversed many morphological defects in the motor cortex, including neuronal size and dendritic complexity. Restoration of Mecp2 expression was also accompanied by a significant improvement in respiratory and sensory-motor functions, including breathing pattern, grip strength, balance beam and rotarod performance. Our findings sustain the view that MeCP2 does not play a pivotal role in brain development, but may instead be required to maintain full neurological function once development is complete.

Item Type:Articles
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:McKay, Dr Leanne and Cobb, Dr Stuart and Spike, Dr Rosemary and Brockett, Dr Emma
Authors: Robinson, L., Guy, J., McKay, L., Brockett, E., Spike, R. C., Selfridge, J., De Sousa, D., Merusi, C., Riedel, G., Bird, A., and Cobb, S. R.
College/School:College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Psychology & Neuroscience
Journal Name:Brain
Publisher:Oxford University Press
ISSN:0006-8950
ISSN (Online):1460-2156
Published Online:23 April 2012

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Project CodeAward NoProject NamePrincipal InvestigatorFunder's NameFunder RefLead Dept
480301Reversibility and mapping of Rett Syndrome-like phenotypes in the mouse brainStuart CobbMedical Research Council (MRC)G0800401/86343RI NEUROSCIENCE & PSYCHOLOGY