51
|
Livermore JJA, Klaassen FH, Bramson B, Hulsman AM, Meijer SW, Held L, Klumpers F, de Voogd LD, Roelofs K. Approach-Avoidance Decisions Under Threat: The Role of Autonomic Psychophysiological States. Front Neurosci 2021; 15:621517. [PMID: 33867915 PMCID: PMC8044748 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2021.621517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2020] [Accepted: 03/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Acutely challenging or threatening situations frequently require approach-avoidance decisions. Acute threat triggers fast autonomic changes that prepare the body to freeze, fight or flee. However, such autonomic changes may also influence subsequent instrumental approach-avoidance decisions. Since defensive bodily states are often not considered in value-based decision-making models, it remains unclear how they influence the decision-making process. Here, we aim to bridge this gap by discussing the existing literature on the potential role of threat-induced bodily states on decision making and provide a new neurocomputational framework explaining how these effects can facilitate or bias approach-avoid decisions under threat. Theoretical accounts have stated that threat-induced parasympathetic activity is involved in information gathering and decision making. Parasympathetic dominance over sympathetic activity is particularly seen during threat-anticipatory freezing, an evolutionarily conserved response to threat demonstrated across species and characterized by immobility and bradycardia. Although this state of freezing has been linked to altered information processing and action preparation, a full theoretical treatment of the interactions with value-based decision making has not yet been achieved. Our neural framework, which we term the Threat State/Value Integration (TSI) Model, will illustrate how threat-induced bodily states may impact valuation of competing incentives at three stages of the decision-making process, namely at threat evaluation, integration of rewards and threats, and action initiation. Additionally, because altered parasympathetic activity and decision biases have been shown in anxious populations, we will end with discussing how biases in this system can lead to characteristic patterns of avoidance seen in anxiety-related disorders, motivating future pre-clinical and clinical research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- James J. A. Livermore
- Donders Institute for Brain Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University, Nijmegen, Netherlands
- Behavioural Science Institute, Radboud University, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Felix H. Klaassen
- Donders Institute for Brain Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University, Nijmegen, Netherlands
- Behavioural Science Institute, Radboud University, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Bob Bramson
- Donders Institute for Brain Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University, Nijmegen, Netherlands
- Behavioural Science Institute, Radboud University, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Anneloes M. Hulsman
- Donders Institute for Brain Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University, Nijmegen, Netherlands
- Behavioural Science Institute, Radboud University, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Sjoerd W. Meijer
- Donders Institute for Brain Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University, Nijmegen, Netherlands
- Behavioural Science Institute, Radboud University, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Leslie Held
- Donders Institute for Brain Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University, Nijmegen, Netherlands
- Behavioural Science Institute, Radboud University, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Floris Klumpers
- Donders Institute for Brain Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University, Nijmegen, Netherlands
- Behavioural Science Institute, Radboud University, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Lycia D. de Voogd
- Donders Institute for Brain Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University, Nijmegen, Netherlands
- Behavioural Science Institute, Radboud University, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Karin Roelofs
- Donders Institute for Brain Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University, Nijmegen, Netherlands
- Behavioural Science Institute, Radboud University, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
52
|
Motivational competition and the paraventricular thalamus. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2021; 125:193-207. [PMID: 33609570 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2021.02.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2019] [Revised: 07/16/2020] [Accepted: 02/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Although significant progress has been made in understanding the behavioral and brain mechanisms for motivational systems, much less is known about competition between motivational states or motivational conflict (e.g., approach - avoidance conflict). Despite being produced under diverse conditions, behavior during motivational competition has two signatures: bistability and metastability. These signatures reveal the operation of positive feedback mechanisms in behavioral selection. Different neuronal architectures can instantiate this selection to achieve bistability and metastability in behavior, but each relies on circuit-level inhibition to achieve rapid and stable selection between competing tendencies. Paraventricular thalamus (PVT) is identified as critical to this circuit level inhibition, resolving motivational competition via its extensive projections to local inhibitory networks in the ventral striatum and extended amygdala, enabling adaptive responding under motivational conflict.
Collapse
|
53
|
Walker LC. A balancing act: the role of pro- and anti-stress peptides within the central amygdala in anxiety and alcohol use disorders. J Neurochem 2021; 157:1615-1643. [PMID: 33450069 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.15301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2020] [Revised: 12/18/2020] [Accepted: 01/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The central nucleus of the amygdala (CeA) is widely implicated as a structure that integrates both appetitive and aversive stimuli. While intrinsic CeA microcircuits primarily consist of GABAergic neurons that regulate amygdala output, a notable feature of the CeA is the heterogeneity of neuropeptides and neuropeptide/neuromodulator receptors that it expresses. There is growing interest in the role of the CeA in mediating psychopathologies, including stress and anxiety states and their interactions with alcohol use disorders. Within the CeA, neuropeptides and neuromodulators often exert pro- or anti- stress actions, which can influence anxiety and alcohol associated behaviours. In turn, alcohol use can cause adaptions within the CeA, which may render an individual more vulnerable to stress which is a major trigger of relapse to alcohol seeking. This review examines the neurocircuitry, neurochemical phenotypes and how pro- and anti-stress peptide systems act within the CeA to regulate anxiety and alcohol seeking, focusing on preclinical observations from animal models. Furthermore, literature exploring the targeting of genetically defined populations or neuronal ensembles and the role of the CeA in mediating sex differences in stress x alcohol interactions are explored.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Leigh C Walker
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Parkville, Vic, Australia.,Florey Department of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Vic, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
54
|
Cell-Type Specificity of Neuronal Excitability and Morphology in the Central Amygdala. eNeuro 2021; 8:ENEURO.0402-20.2020. [PMID: 33188006 PMCID: PMC7877473 DOI: 10.1523/eneuro.0402-20.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2020] [Accepted: 10/12/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Central amygdala (CeA) neurons expressing protein kinase Cδ (PKCδ+) or somatostatin (Som+) differentially modulate diverse behaviors. The underlying features supporting cell-type-specific function in the CeA, however, remain unknown. Using whole-cell patch-clamp electrophysiology in acute mouse brain slices and biocytin-based neuronal reconstructions, we demonstrate that neuronal morphology and relative excitability are two distinguishing features between Som+ and PKCδ+ neurons in the laterocapsular subdivision of the CeA (CeLC). Som+ neurons, for example, are more excitable, compact, and with more complex dendritic arborizations than PKCδ+ neurons. Cell size, intrinsic membrane properties, and anatomic localization were further shown to correlate with cell-type-specific differences in excitability. Lastly, in the context of neuropathic pain, we show a shift in the excitability equilibrium between PKCδ+ and Som+ neurons, suggesting that imbalances in the relative output of these cells underlie maladaptive changes in behaviors. Together, our results identify fundamentally important distinguishing features of PKCδ+ and Som+ cells that support cell-type-specific function in the CeA.
Collapse
|
55
|
Somatostatin Neurons of the Bed Nucleus of Stria Terminalis Enhance Associative Fear Memory Consolidation in Mice. J Neurosci 2021; 41:1982-1995. [PMID: 33468566 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.1944-20.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2020] [Revised: 11/26/2020] [Accepted: 12/23/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Excessive fear learning and generalized, extinction-resistant fear memories are core symptoms of anxiety and trauma-related disorders. Despite significant evidence from clinical studies reporting hyperactivity of the bed nucleus of stria terminalis (BNST) under these conditions, the role of BNST in fear learning and expression is still not clarified. Here, we tested how BNST modulates fear learning in male mice using a chemogenetic approach. Activation of GABAergic neurons of BNST during fear conditioning or memory consolidation resulted in enhanced cue-related fear recall. Importantly, BNST activation had no acute impact on fear expression during conditioning or recalls, but it enhanced cue-related fear recall subsequently, potentially via altered activity of downstream regions. Enhanced fear memory consolidation could be replicated by selectively activating somatostatin (SOM), but not corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF), neurons of the BNST, which was accompanied by increased fear generalization. Our findings suggest the significant modulation of fear memory strength by specific circuits of the BNST.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT The bed nucleus of stria terminalis (BNST) mediates different defensive behaviors, and its connections implicate its integrative modulatory role in fear memory formation; however, the involvement of BNST in fear learning has yet to be elucidated in detail. Our data highlight that BNST stimulation enhances fear memory formation without direct effects on fear expression. Our study identified somatostatin (SOM) cells within the extended amygdala as specific neurons promoting fear memory formation. These data underline the importance of anxiety circuits in maladaptive fear memory formation, indicating elevated BNST activity as a potential vulnerability factor to anxiety and trauma-related disorders.
Collapse
|
56
|
A Central Amygdala-Globus Pallidus Circuit Conveys Unconditioned Stimulus-Related Information and Controls Fear Learning. J Neurosci 2020; 40:9043-9054. [PMID: 33067362 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.2090-20.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2020] [Revised: 10/04/2020] [Accepted: 10/12/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The central amygdala (CeA) is critically involved in a range of adaptive behaviors, including defensive behaviors. Neurons in the CeA send long-range projections to a number of extra-amygdala targets, but the functions of these projections remain elusive. Here, we report that a previously neglected CeA-to-globus pallidus external segment (GPe) circuit plays an essential role in classical fear conditioning. By anatomic tracing, in situ hybridization and channelrhodopsin (ChR2)-assisted circuit mapping in both male and female mice, we found that a subset of CeA neurons send projections to the GPe, and the majority of these GPe-projecting CeA neurons express the neuropeptide somatostatin. Notably, chronic inhibition of GPe-projecting CeA neurons with the tetanus toxin light chain (TeLC) completely blocks auditory fear conditioning. In vivo fiber photometry revealed that these neurons are selectively excited by the unconditioned stimulus (US) during fear conditioning. Furthermore, transient optogenetic inactivation or activation of these neurons selectively during US presentation impairs or promotes, respectively, fear learning. Our results suggest that a major function of GPe-projecting CeA neurons is to represent and convey US-related information through the CeA-GPe circuit, thereby regulating learning in fear conditioning.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT The central amygdala (CeA) has been implicated in the establishment of defensive behaviors toward threats, but the underlying circuit mechanisms remain unclear. Here, we found that a subpopulation of neurons in the CeA, which are mainly those that express the neuropeptide somatostatin, send projections to the globus pallidus external segment (GPe), and this CeA-GPe circuit conveys unconditioned stimulus (US)-related information during classical fear conditioning, thereby having an indispensable role in learning. Our results reveal a previously unknown circuit mechanism for fear learning.
Collapse
|
57
|
Kovner R, Souaiaia T, Fox AS, French DA, Goss CE, Roseboom PH, Oler JA, Riedel MK, Fekete EM, Fudge JL, Knowles JA, Kalin NH. Transcriptional Profiling of Primate Central Nucleus of the Amygdala Neurons to Understand the Molecular Underpinnings of Early-Life Anxious Temperament. Biol Psychiatry 2020; 88:638-648. [PMID: 32709417 PMCID: PMC7530008 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2020.05.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2019] [Revised: 04/22/2020] [Accepted: 05/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Children exhibiting extreme anxious temperament (AT) are at an increased risk for developing anxiety and depression. Our previous mechanistic and neuroimaging work in young rhesus monkeys linked the central nucleus of the amygdala to AT and its underlying neural circuit. METHODS Here, we used laser capture microscopy and RNA sequencing in 47 young rhesus monkeys to investigate AT's molecular underpinnings by focusing on neurons from the lateral division of the central nucleus of the amygdala (CeL). RNA sequencing identified numerous AT-related CeL transcripts, and we used immunofluorescence (n = 3) and tract-tracing (n = 2) methods in a different sample of monkeys to examine the expression, distribution, and projection pattern of neurons expressing one of these transcripts. RESULTS We found 555 AT-related transcripts, 14 of which were confirmed with high statistical confidence (false discovery rate < .10), including protein kinase C delta (PKCδ), a CeL microcircuit cell marker implicated in rodent threat processing. We characterized PKCδ neurons in the rhesus CeL, compared its distribution with that of the mouse, and demonstrated that a subset of these neurons project to the laterodorsal bed nucleus of the stria terminalis. CONCLUSIONS These findings demonstrate that CeL PKCδ is associated with primate anxiety, provides evidence of a CeL to laterodorsal bed nucleus of the stria terminalis circuit that may be relevant to understanding human anxiety, and points to specific molecules within this circuit that could serve as potential treatment targets for anxiety disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rothem Kovner
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin; Neuroscience Training Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin; HealthEmotions Research Institute, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin.
| | - Tade Souaiaia
- Department of Cell Biology, State University of New York Downstate Medical Center, Brooklyn, New York
| | - Andrew S Fox
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Davis, Davis, California; California National Primate Research Center, University of California, Davis, Davis, California
| | - Delores A French
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin; HealthEmotions Research Institute, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Cooper E Goss
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Patrick H Roseboom
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin; Neuroscience Training Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin; HealthEmotions Research Institute, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Jonathan A Oler
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin; HealthEmotions Research Institute, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Marissa K Riedel
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin; HealthEmotions Research Institute, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Eva M Fekete
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin; HealthEmotions Research Institute, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Julie L Fudge
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, New York; Department of Neuroscience/Del Monte Institute for Brain Research, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, New York
| | - James A Knowles
- Department of Cell Biology, State University of New York Downstate Medical Center, Brooklyn, New York
| | - Ned H Kalin
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin; Neuroscience Training Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin; HealthEmotions Research Institute, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin.
| |
Collapse
|
58
|
McCullough KM, Chatzinakos C, Hartmann J, Missig G, Neve RL, Fenster RJ, Carlezon WA, Daskalakis NP, Ressler KJ. Genome-wide translational profiling of amygdala Crh-expressing neurons reveals role for CREB in fear extinction learning. Nat Commun 2020; 11:5180. [PMID: 33057013 PMCID: PMC7560654 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-020-18985-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2020] [Accepted: 09/25/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Fear and extinction learning are adaptive processes caused by molecular changes in specific neural circuits. Neurons expressing the corticotropin-releasing hormone gene (Crh) in central amygdala (CeA) are implicated in threat regulation, yet little is known of cell type-specific gene pathways mediating adaptive learning. We translationally profiled the transcriptome of CeA Crh-expressing cells (Crh neurons) after fear conditioning or extinction in mice using translating ribosome affinity purification (TRAP) and RNAseq. Differential gene expression and co-expression network analyses identified diverse networks activated or inhibited by fear vs extinction. Upstream regulator analysis demonstrated that extinction associates with reduced CREB expression, and viral vector-induced increased CREB expression in Crh neurons increased fear expression and inhibited extinction. These findings suggest that CREB, within CeA Crh neurons, may function as a molecular switch that regulates expression of fear and its extinction. Cell-type specific translational analyses may suggest targets useful for understanding and treating stress-related psychiatric illness.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth M McCullough
- McLean Hospital, Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Belmont, MA, 02478, USA
| | - Chris Chatzinakos
- McLean Hospital, Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Belmont, MA, 02478, USA
| | - Jakob Hartmann
- McLean Hospital, Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Belmont, MA, 02478, USA
| | - Galen Missig
- McLean Hospital, Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Belmont, MA, 02478, USA
| | - Rachael L Neve
- Gene Transfer Core, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, 02114, USA
| | - Robert J Fenster
- McLean Hospital, Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Belmont, MA, 02478, USA
| | - William A Carlezon
- McLean Hospital, Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Belmont, MA, 02478, USA
| | - Nikolaos P Daskalakis
- McLean Hospital, Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Belmont, MA, 02478, USA.
| | - Kerry J Ressler
- McLean Hospital, Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Belmont, MA, 02478, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
59
|
Shrestha P, Shan Z, Mamcarz M, Ruiz KSA, Zerihoun AT, Juan CY, Herrero-Vidal PM, Pelletier J, Heintz N, Klann E. Amygdala inhibitory neurons as loci for translation in emotional memories. Nature 2020; 586:407-411. [PMID: 33029009 PMCID: PMC7572709 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-020-2793-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2019] [Accepted: 07/06/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
To survive in a dynamic environment, animals need to identify and appropriately respond to stimuli that signal danger1. Survival also depends on suppressing the threat-response during a stimulus that predicts the absence of threat (safety)2-5. An understanding of the biological substrates of emotional memories during a task in which animals learn to flexibly execute defensive responses to a threat-predictive cue and a safety cue is critical for developing treatments for memory disorders such as post-traumatic stress disorder5. The centrolateral amygdala is an important node in the neuronal circuit that mediates defensive responses6-9, and a key brain area for processing and storing threat memories. Here we applied intersectional chemogenetic strategies to inhibitory neurons in the centrolateral amygdala of mice to block cell-type-specific translation programs that are sensitive to depletion of eukaryotic initiation factor 4E (eIF4E) and phosphorylation of eukaryotic initiation factor 2α (p-eIF2α). We show that de novo translation in somatostatin-expressing inhibitory neurons in the centrolateral amygdala is necessary for the long-term storage of conditioned-threat responses, whereas de novo translation in protein kinase Cδ-expressing inhibitory neurons in the centrolateral amygdala is necessary for the inhibition of a conditioned response to a safety cue. Our results provide insight into the role of de novo protein synthesis in distinct inhibitory neuron populations in the centrolateral amygdala during the consolidation of long-term memories.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Prerana Shrestha
- Center for Neural Science, New York University, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Zhe Shan
- Center for Neural Science, New York University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Maggie Mamcarz
- Center for Neural Science, New York University, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - Adam T Zerihoun
- Center for Neural Science, New York University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Chien-Yu Juan
- Center for Neural Science, New York University, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - Jerry Pelletier
- Department of Biochemistry, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Nathaniel Heintz
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Eric Klann
- Center for Neural Science, New York University, New York, NY, USA.
- NYU Neuroscience Institute, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
60
|
Sharma V, Sood R, Khlaifia A, Eslamizade MJ, Hung TY, Lou D, Asgarihafshejani A, Lalzar M, Kiniry SJ, Stokes MP, Cohen N, Nelson AJ, Abell K, Possemato AP, Gal-Ben-Ari S, Truong VT, Wang P, Yiannakas A, Saffarzadeh F, Cuello AC, Nader K, Kaufman RJ, Costa-Mattioli M, Baranov PV, Quintana A, Sanz E, Khoutorsky A, Lacaille JC, Rosenblum K, Sonenberg N. eIF2α controls memory consolidation via excitatory and somatostatin neurons. Nature 2020; 586:412-416. [PMID: 33029011 PMCID: PMC7874887 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-020-2805-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2019] [Accepted: 07/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
An important tenet of learning and memory is the notion of a molecular switch that promotes the formation of long-term memory1-4. The regulation of proteostasis is a critical and rate-limiting step in the consolidation of new memories5-10. One of the most effective and prevalent ways to enhance memory is by regulating the synthesis of proteins controlled by the translation initiation factor eIF211. Phosphorylation of the α-subunit of eIF2 (p-eIF2α), the central component of the integrated stress response (ISR), impairs long-term memory formation in rodents and birds11-13. By contrast, inhibiting the ISR by mutating the eIF2α phosphorylation site, genetically11 and pharmacologically inhibiting the ISR kinases14-17, or mimicking reduced p-eIF2α with the ISR inhibitor ISRIB11, enhances long-term memory in health and disease18. Here we used molecular genetics to dissect the neuronal circuits by which the ISR gates cognitive processing. We found that learning reduces eIF2α phosphorylation in hippocampal excitatory neurons and a subset of hippocampal inhibitory neurons (those that express somatostatin, but not parvalbumin). Moreover, ablation of p-eIF2α in either excitatory or somatostatin-expressing (but not parvalbumin-expressing) inhibitory neurons increased general mRNA translation, bolstered synaptic plasticity and enhanced long-term memory. Thus, eIF2α-dependent mRNA translation controls memory consolidation via autonomous mechanisms in excitatory and somatostatin-expressing inhibitory neurons.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vijendra Sharma
- Department of Biochemistry, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada.
- Rosalind and Morris Goodman Cancer Research Centre, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada.
| | - Rapita Sood
- Department of Biochemistry, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
- Rosalind and Morris Goodman Cancer Research Centre, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | | | - Mohammad Javad Eslamizade
- Department of Biochemistry, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
- Rosalind and Morris Goodman Cancer Research Centre, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
- Department of Neurosciences, University of Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Tzu-Yu Hung
- Department of Biochemistry, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
- Rosalind and Morris Goodman Cancer Research Centre, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Danning Lou
- Department of Biochemistry, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
- Rosalind and Morris Goodman Cancer Research Centre, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | | | - Maya Lalzar
- Bioinformatics Services Unit, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Haifa, Mount Carmel, Haifa, Israel
| | - Stephen J Kiniry
- School of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, University College Cork, Cork, T12 XF62, Ireland
| | - Matthew P Stokes
- Proteomics Division, Cell Signaling Technology, Danvers, MA, 01923, USA
| | - Noah Cohen
- Department of Biochemistry, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
- Rosalind and Morris Goodman Cancer Research Centre, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Alissa J Nelson
- Proteomics Division, Cell Signaling Technology, Danvers, MA, 01923, USA
| | - Kathryn Abell
- Proteomics Division, Cell Signaling Technology, Danvers, MA, 01923, USA
| | | | | | - Vinh T Truong
- Department of Biochemistry, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
- Rosalind and Morris Goodman Cancer Research Centre, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Peng Wang
- Department of Biochemistry, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
- Rosalind and Morris Goodman Cancer Research Centre, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Adonis Yiannakas
- Sagol Department of Neurobiology, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
| | - Fatemeh Saffarzadeh
- Department of Neurosciences, University of Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - A Claudio Cuello
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Karim Nader
- Department of Psychology, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Randal J Kaufman
- Degenerative Diseases Program, Sanford-Burnham-Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | | | - Pavel V Baranov
- School of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, University College Cork, Cork, T12 XF62, Ireland
- Shemyakin and Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, RAS, Moscow, Russia
| | - Albert Quintana
- Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain
- Neuroscience Institute, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain
| | - Elisenda Sanz
- Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain
- Neuroscience Institute, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain
| | - Arkady Khoutorsky
- Department of Anesthesia, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
- Faculty of Dentistry, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Jean-Claude Lacaille
- Department of Neurosciences, University of Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Research on Brain and Learning, University of Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Kobi Rosenblum
- Sagol Department of Neurobiology, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel.
- Center for Gene Manipulation in the Brain, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel.
| | - Nahum Sonenberg
- Department of Biochemistry, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada.
- Rosalind and Morris Goodman Cancer Research Centre, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
61
|
Xiao X, Deng H, Furlan A, Yang T, Zhang X, Hwang GR, Tucciarone J, Wu P, He M, Palaniswamy R, Ramakrishnan C, Ritola K, Hantman A, Deisseroth K, Osten P, Huang ZJ, Li B. A Genetically Defined Compartmentalized Striatal Direct Pathway for Negative Reinforcement. Cell 2020; 183:211-227.e20. [PMID: 32937106 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2020.08.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2020] [Revised: 05/02/2020] [Accepted: 08/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
The striosome compartment within the dorsal striatum has been implicated in reinforcement learning and regulation of motivation, but how striosomal neurons contribute to these functions remains elusive. Here, we show that a genetically identified striosomal population, which expresses the Teashirt family zinc finger 1 (Tshz1) and belongs to the direct pathway, drives negative reinforcement and is essential for aversive learning in mice. Contrasting a "conventional" striosomal direct pathway, the Tshz1 neurons cause aversion, movement suppression, and negative reinforcement once activated, and they receive a distinct set of synaptic inputs. These neurons are predominantly excited by punishment rather than reward and represent the anticipation of punishment or the motivation for avoidance. Furthermore, inhibiting these neurons impairs punishment-based learning without affecting reward learning or movement. These results establish a major role of striosomal neurons in behaviors reinforced by punishment and moreover uncover functions of the direct pathway unaccounted for in classic models.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiong Xiao
- Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, NY 11724, USA
| | - Hanfei Deng
- Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, NY 11724, USA
| | | | - Tao Yang
- Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, NY 11724, USA
| | - Xian Zhang
- Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, NY 11724, USA
| | - Ga-Ram Hwang
- Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, NY 11724, USA
| | - Jason Tucciarone
- Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, NY 11724, USA
| | - Priscilla Wu
- Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, NY 11724, USA
| | - Miao He
- Institutes of Brain Science, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | | | - Charu Ramakrishnan
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI), Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA; Department of Bioengineering and Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | | | - Adam Hantman
- HHMI Janelia Research Campus, Ashburn, VA 20147, USA
| | - Karl Deisseroth
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI), Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA; Department of Bioengineering and Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Pavel Osten
- Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, NY 11724, USA
| | - Z Josh Huang
- Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, NY 11724, USA
| | - Bo Li
- Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, NY 11724, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
62
|
Wilson TD, Valdivia S, Khan A, Ahn HS, Adke AP, Martinez Gonzalez S, Sugimura YK, Carrasquillo Y. Dual and Opposing Functions of the Central Amygdala in the Modulation of Pain. Cell Rep 2020; 29:332-346.e5. [PMID: 31597095 PMCID: PMC6816228 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2019.09.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 129] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2018] [Revised: 07/27/2019] [Accepted: 09/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Pain perception is essential for survival and can be amplified or suppressed by expectations, experiences, and context. The neural mechanisms underlying bidirectional modulation of pain remain largely unknown. Here, we demonstrate that the central nucleus of the amygdala (CeA) functions as a pain rheostat, decreasing or increasing pain-related behaviors in mice. This dual and opposing function of the CeA is encoded by opposing changes in the excitability of two distinct subpopulations of GABAergic neurons that receive excitatory inputs from the parabrachial nucleus (PB). Thus, cells expressing protein kinase C-delta (CeA-PKCδ) are sensitized by nerve injury and increase pain-related responses. In contrast, cells expressing somatostatin (CeA-Som) are inhibited by nerve injury and their activity drives antinociception. Together, these results demonstrate that the CeA can amplify or suppress pain in a cell-type-specific manner, uncovering a previously unknown mechanism underlying bidirectional control of pain in the brain. The brain can bidirectionally influence behavioral responses to painful stimuli. Wilson et al identify a cellular mechanism underlying a pain rheostat system within the forebrain, with activation of CeA-Som neurons attenuating pain-related responses and increases in the activity of CeA-PKCδ neurons promoting amplification of pain-related behaviors following injury.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Torri D Wilson
- National Center of Complementary and Integrative Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Spring Valdivia
- National Center of Complementary and Integrative Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Aleisha Khan
- National Center of Complementary and Integrative Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Hye-Sook Ahn
- National Center of Complementary and Integrative Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Anisha P Adke
- National Center of Complementary and Integrative Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Santiago Martinez Gonzalez
- National Center of Complementary and Integrative Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Yae K Sugimura
- National Center of Complementary and Integrative Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Yarimar Carrasquillo
- National Center of Complementary and Integrative Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
63
|
Fu JY, Yu XD, Zhu Y, Xie SZ, Tang MY, Yu B, Li XM. Whole-Brain Map of Long-Range Monosynaptic Inputs to Different Cell Types in the Amygdala of the Mouse. Neurosci Bull 2020; 36:1381-1394. [PMID: 32691225 PMCID: PMC7674542 DOI: 10.1007/s12264-020-00545-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2019] [Accepted: 05/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The amygdala, which is involved in various behaviors and emotions, is reported to connect with the whole brain. However, the long-range inputs of distinct cell types have not yet been defined. Here, we used a retrograde trans-synaptic rabies virus to generate a whole-brain map of inputs to the main cell types in the mouse amygdala. We identified 37 individual regions that projected to neurons expressing vesicular glutamate transporter 2, 78 regions to parvalbumin-expressing neurons, 104 regions to neurons expressing protein kinase C-δ, and 89 regions to somatostatin-expressing neurons. The amygdala received massive projections from the isocortex and striatum. Several nuclei, such as the caudate-putamen and the CA1 field of the hippocampus, exhibited input preferences to different cell types in the amygdala. Notably, we identified several novel input areas, including the substantia innominata and zona incerta. These findings provide anatomical evidence to help understand the precise connections and diverse functions of the amygdala.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jia-Yu Fu
- Center for Neuroscience and Department of Neurology of Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Xiao-Dan Yu
- Center for Neuroscience and Department of Neurology of Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Yi Zhu
- Center for Neuroscience and Department of Neurology of Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Shi-Ze Xie
- Center for Neuroscience and Department of Neurology of Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Meng-Yu Tang
- Center for Neuroscience and Department of Neurology of Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Bin Yu
- Center for Neuroscience and Department of Neurology of Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Xiao-Ming Li
- Center for Neuroscience and Department of Neurology of Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058, China. .,NHC and CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Center for Brain Science and Brain-Inspired Intelligence, Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, Joint Institute for Genetics and Genome Medicine between Zhejiang University and University of Toronto, Hangzhou, 310058, China.
| |
Collapse
|
64
|
Wang J, Poliquin S, Mermer F, Eissman J, Delpire E, Wang J, Shen W, Cai K, Li BM, Li ZY, Xu D, Nwosu G, Flamm C, Liao WP, Shi YW, Kang JQ. Endoplasmic reticulum retention and degradation of a mutation in SLC6A1 associated with epilepsy and autism. Mol Brain 2020; 13:76. [PMID: 32398021 PMCID: PMC7218610 DOI: 10.1186/s13041-020-00612-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2020] [Accepted: 04/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Mutations in SLC6A1, encoding γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) transporter 1 (GAT-1), have been recently associated with a spectrum of epilepsy syndromes, intellectual disability and autism in clinic. However, the pathophysiology of the gene mutations is far from clear. Here we report a novel SLC6A1 missense mutation in a patient with epilepsy and autism spectrum disorder and characterized the molecular defects of the mutant GAT-1, from transporter protein trafficking to GABA uptake function in heterologous cells and neurons. The heterozygous missense mutation (c1081C to A (P361T)) in SLC6A1 was identified by exome sequencing. We have thoroughly characterized the molecular pathophysiology underlying the clinical phenotypes. We performed EEG recordings and autism diagnostic interview. The patient had neurodevelopmental delay, absence epilepsy, generalized epilepsy, and 2.5–3 Hz generalized spike and slow waves on EEG recordings. The impact of the mutation on GAT-1 function and trafficking was evaluated by 3H GABA uptake, structural simulation with machine learning tools, live cell confocal microscopy and protein expression in mouse neurons and nonneuronal cells. We demonstrated that the GAT-1(P361T) mutation destabilizes the global protein conformation and reduces total protein expression. The mutant transporter protein was localized intracellularly inside the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) with a pattern of expression very similar to the cells treated with tunicamycin, an ER stress inducer. Radioactive 3H-labeled GABA uptake assay indicated the mutation reduced the function of the mutant GAT-1(P361T), to a level that is similar to the cells treated with GAT-1 inhibitors. In summary, this mutation destabilizes the mutant transporter protein, which results in retention of the mutant protein inside cells and reduction of total transporter expression, likely via excessive endoplasmic reticulum associated degradation. This thus likely causes reduced functional transporter number on the cell surface, which then could cause the observed reduced GABA uptake function. Consequently, malfunctioning GABA signaling may cause altered neurodevelopment and neurotransmission, such as enhanced tonic inhibition and altered cell proliferation in vivo. The pathophysiology due to severely impaired GAT-1 function may give rise to a wide spectrum of neurodevelopmental phenotypes including autism and epilepsy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jie Wang
- Institute of Neuroscience and Department of Neurology of the Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University; Key Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Channelopathies of Guangdong Province and the Ministry of Education of China, Guangzhou, 510260, China
| | - Sarah Poliquin
- The Neuroscience Program, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, 37232, USA
| | - Felicia Mermer
- The Neuroscience Program, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, 37232, USA
| | - Jaclyn Eissman
- The Neuroscience Program, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, 37232, USA
| | - Eric Delpire
- Department of Anesthesiology, Vanderbilt University Department of Anesthesiology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, 37232, USA
| | - Juexin Wang
- Department of Electrical Engineering & Computer Science and Christopher S. Bond Life Sciences Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, 65211, USA
| | - Wangzhen Shen
- Department of Neurology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, USA
| | - Kefu Cai
- Department of Neurology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, USA.,Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital, Nantong University, Nantong, 226001, Jiangsu, China
| | - Bing-Mei Li
- Institute of Neuroscience and Department of Neurology of the Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University; Key Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Channelopathies of Guangdong Province and the Ministry of Education of China, Guangzhou, 510260, China
| | - Zong-Yan Li
- Institute of Neuroscience and Department of Neurology of the Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University; Key Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Channelopathies of Guangdong Province and the Ministry of Education of China, Guangzhou, 510260, China
| | - Dong Xu
- Department of Electrical Engineering & Computer Science and Christopher S. Bond Life Sciences Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, 65211, USA
| | - Gerald Nwosu
- Department of Neurology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, USA.,Neuroscience Graduate Program, Vanderbilt-Meharry Alliance, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, 37235, USA
| | - Carson Flamm
- The Neuroscience Program, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, 37232, USA
| | - Wei-Ping Liao
- Institute of Neuroscience and Department of Neurology of the Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University; Key Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Channelopathies of Guangdong Province and the Ministry of Education of China, Guangzhou, 510260, China
| | - Yi-Wu Shi
- Institute of Neuroscience and Department of Neurology of the Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University; Key Laboratory of Neurogenetics and Channelopathies of Guangdong Province and the Ministry of Education of China, Guangzhou, 510260, China
| | - Jing-Qiong Kang
- Department of Neurology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, USA. .,Department of Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University, Vanderbilt Kennedy Center of Human Development, Vanderbilt Brain Institute, 6147 MRBIII, 465 21st Ave. South, Nashville, TN, 37232, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
65
|
van den Burg EH, Hegoburu C. Modulation of expression of fear by oxytocin signaling in the central amygdala: From reduction of fear to regulation of defensive behavior style. Neuropharmacology 2020; 173:108130. [PMID: 32389750 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2020.108130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2019] [Revised: 04/28/2020] [Accepted: 05/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Many studies in preclinical animal models have described fear-reducing effects of the neuropeptide oxytocin in the central nucleus of the amygdala. However, recent studies have refined the role of oxytocin in the central amygdala, which may extend to the selection of an active defensive coping style in the face of immediate threat, and also fear-enhancing effects have been reported. On top of this, oxytocin enables the discrimination of unfamiliar conspecifics on the basis of their emotional state, which could allow for the selection of an appropriate coping style. This is in line with many observations that support the hypothesis that the precise outcome of oxytocin signaling in the central amygdala or other brain regions depends on the emotional or physiological state of an animal. In this review, we highlight a number of studies to exemplify the diverse effects oxytocin exerts on fear in the central amygdala of rodents. These are discussed in the context of the organization of the neural network within the central amygdala and in relation to the oxytocin-synthesizing neurons in the hypothalamus.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Erwin H van den Burg
- Center for Psychiatric Neurosciences, Lausanne University Hospital Center (CHUV), Prilly, Lausanne, Switzerland.
| | - Chloé Hegoburu
- Center for Psychiatric Neurosciences, Lausanne University Hospital Center (CHUV), Prilly, Lausanne, Switzerland.
| |
Collapse
|
66
|
Raver C, Uddin O, Ji Y, Li Y, Cramer N, Jenne C, Morales M, Masri R, Keller A. An Amygdalo-Parabrachial Pathway Regulates Pain Perception and Chronic Pain. J Neurosci 2020; 40:3424-3442. [PMID: 32217613 PMCID: PMC7178908 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.0075-20.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2020] [Revised: 03/09/2020] [Accepted: 03/11/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The parabrachial (PB) complex mediates both ascending nociceptive signaling and descending pain modulatory information in the affective/emotional pain pathway. We have recently reported that chronic pain is associated with amplified activity of PB neurons in a rat model of neuropathic pain. Here we demonstrate that similar activity amplification occurs in mice, and that this is related to suppressed inhibition to lateral parabrachial (LPB) neurons from the CeA in animals of either sex. Animals with pain after chronic constriction injury of the infraorbital nerve (CCI-Pain) displayed higher spontaneous and evoked activity in PB neurons, and a dramatic increase in after-discharges, responses that far outlast the stimulus, compared with controls. LPB neurons in CCI-Pain animals showed a reduction in inhibitory, GABAergic inputs. We show that, in both rats and mice, LPB contains few GABAergic neurons, and that most of its GABAergic inputs arise from CeA. These CeA GABA neurons express dynorphin, somatostatin, and/or corticotropin releasing hormone. We find that the efficacy of this CeA-LPB pathway is suppressed in chronic pain. Further, optogenetically stimulating this pathway suppresses acute pain, and inhibiting it, in naive animals, evokes pain behaviors. These findings demonstrate that the CeA-LPB pathway is critically involved in pain regulation, and in the pathogenesis of chronic pain.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT We describe a novel pathway, consisting of inhibition by dynorphin, somatostatin, and corticotropin-releasing hormone-expressing neurons in the CeA that project to the parabrachial nucleus. We show that this pathway regulates the activity of pain-related neurons in parabrachial nucleus, and that, in chronic pain, this inhibitory pathway is suppressed, and that this suppression is causally related to pain perception. We propose that this amygdalo-parabrachial pathway is a key regulator of both chronic and acute pain, and a novel target for pain relief.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Charles Raver
- Department of Anatomy & Neurobiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21201
| | - Olivia Uddin
- Department of Anatomy & Neurobiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21201
- Program in Neuroscience, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21201
| | - Yadong Ji
- Department of Advanced Oral Sciences and Therapeutics, University of Maryland School of Dentistry, Baltimore, Maryland 21201
| | - Ying Li
- Department of Anatomy & Neurobiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21201
| | - Nathan Cramer
- Department of Anatomy & Neurobiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21201
| | - Carleigh Jenne
- Department of Anatomy & Neurobiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21201
| | - Marisela Morales
- Neuronal Networks Section, Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Baltimore, Maryland 21224
| | - Radi Masri
- Department of Anatomy & Neurobiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21201
- Department of Advanced Oral Sciences and Therapeutics, University of Maryland School of Dentistry, Baltimore, Maryland 21201
| | - Asaf Keller
- Department of Anatomy & Neurobiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21201
- Program in Neuroscience, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21201
| |
Collapse
|
67
|
Steinberg EE, Gore F, Heifets BD, Taylor MD, Norville ZC, Beier KT, Földy C, Lerner TN, Luo L, Deisseroth K, Malenka RC. Amygdala-Midbrain Connections Modulate Appetitive and Aversive Learning. Neuron 2020; 106:1026-1043.e9. [PMID: 32294466 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2020.03.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2019] [Revised: 02/03/2020] [Accepted: 03/18/2020] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
The central amygdala (CeA) orchestrates adaptive responses to emotional events. While CeA substrates for defensive behaviors have been studied extensively, CeA circuits for appetitive behaviors and their relationship to threat-responsive circuits remain poorly defined. Here, we demonstrate that the CeA sends robust inhibitory projections to the lateral substantia nigra (SNL) that contribute to appetitive and aversive learning in mice. CeA→SNL neural responses to appetitive and aversive stimuli were modulated by expectation and magnitude consistent with a population-level salience signal, which was required for Pavlovian conditioned reward-seeking and defensive behaviors. CeA→SNL terminal activation elicited reinforcement when linked to voluntary actions but failed to support Pavlovian associations that rely on incentive value signals. Consistent with a disinhibitory mechanism, CeA inputs preferentially target SNL GABA neurons, and CeA→SNL and SNL dopamine neurons respond similarly to salient stimuli. Collectively, our results suggest that amygdala-nigra interactions represent a previously unappreciated mechanism for influencing emotional behaviors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth E Steinberg
- Nancy Pritzker Laboratory, Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Felicity Gore
- Nancy Pritzker Laboratory, Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA; Departments of Bioengineering and Psychiatry and Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Boris D Heifets
- Nancy Pritzker Laboratory, Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA; Department of Anesthesiology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Madison D Taylor
- Nancy Pritzker Laboratory, Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Zane C Norville
- Nancy Pritzker Laboratory, Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Kevin T Beier
- Nancy Pritzker Laboratory, Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA; Department of Biology and Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Csaba Földy
- Nancy Pritzker Laboratory, Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA; Brain Research Institute, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Talia N Lerner
- Departments of Bioengineering and Psychiatry and Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Liqun Luo
- Department of Biology and Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Karl Deisseroth
- Departments of Bioengineering and Psychiatry and Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Robert C Malenka
- Nancy Pritzker Laboratory, Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
68
|
Beyeler A, Dabrowska J. Neuronal diversity of the amygdala and the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis. HANDBOOK OF BEHAVIORAL NEUROSCIENCE 2020; 26:63-100. [PMID: 32792868 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-815134-1.00003-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Anna Beyeler
- Neurocentre Magendie, French National Institutes of Health (INSERM) unit 1215, Neurocampus of Bordeaux University, Bordeaux, France
| | - Joanna Dabrowska
- Center for the Neurobiology of Stress Resilience and Psychiatric Disorders, Discipline of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology, The Chicago Medical School, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, North Chicago, IL, United States
| |
Collapse
|
69
|
Abstinence-dependent dissociable central amygdala microcircuits control drug craving. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2020; 117:8126-8134. [PMID: 32205443 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2001615117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
We recently reported that social choice-induced voluntary abstinence prevents incubation of methamphetamine craving in rats. This inhibitory effect was associated with activation of protein kinase-Cδ (PKCδ)-expressing neurons in central amygdala lateral division (CeL). In contrast, incubation of craving after forced abstinence was associated with activation of CeL-expressing somatostatin (SOM) neurons. Here we determined the causal role of CeL PKCδ and SOM in incubation using short-hairpin RNAs against PKCδ or SOM that we developed and validated. We injected two groups with shPKCδ or shCtrlPKCδ into CeL and trained them to lever press for social interaction (6 d) and then for methamphetamine infusions (12 d). We injected two other groups with shSOM or shCtrlSOM into CeL and trained them to lever press for methamphetamine infusions (12 d). We then assessed relapse to methamphetamine seeking after 1 and 15 abstinence days. Between tests, the rats underwent either social choice-induced abstinence (shPKCδ groups) or homecage forced abstinence (shSOM groups). After test day 15, we assessed PKCδ and SOM, Fos, and double-labeled expression in CeL and central amygdala medial division (CeM). shPKCδ CeL injections decreased Fos in CeL PKCδ-expressing neurons, increased Fos in CeM output neurons, and reversed the inhibitory effect of social choice-induced abstinence on incubated drug seeking on day 15. In contrast, shSOM CeL injections decreased Fos in CeL SOM-expressing neurons, decreased Fos in CeM output neurons, and decreased incubated drug seeking after 15 forced abstinence days. Our results identify dissociable central amygdala mechanisms of abstinence-dependent expression or inhibition of incubation of craving.
Collapse
|
70
|
Robinson SL, Thiele TE. A role for the neuropeptide somatostatin in the neurobiology of behaviors associated with substances abuse and affective disorders. Neuropharmacology 2020; 167:107983. [PMID: 32027909 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2020.107983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2019] [Revised: 01/07/2020] [Accepted: 01/30/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, neuropeptides which display potent regulatory control of stress-related behaviors have been extensively demonstrated to play a critical role in regulating behaviors associated with substance abuse and affective disorders. Somatostatin (SST) is one neuropeptide known to significantly contribute to emotionality and stress behaviors. However, the role of SST in regulating behavior has received relatively little attention relative to other stress-involved peptides, such as neuropeptide Y or corticotrophin releasing factor. This review characterizes our current understanding of the role of SST and SST-expressing cells in general in modulating several behaviors intrinsically linked to substance abuse and affective disorders, specifically: anxiety and fear; stress and depression; feeding and drinking; and circadian rhythms. We further summarize evidence of a direct role for the SST system, and specifically somatostatin receptors 2 and 4, in substance abuse disorders. This article is part of the special issue on 'Neuropeptides'.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stacey L Robinson
- Department of Psychology & Neuroscience, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA; Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Todd E Thiele
- Department of Psychology & Neuroscience, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA; Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
71
|
Jo YS, Namboodiri VMK, Stuber GD, Zweifel LS. Persistent activation of central amygdala CRF neurons helps drive the immediate fear extinction deficit. Nat Commun 2020; 11:422. [PMID: 31969571 PMCID: PMC6976644 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-020-14393-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2019] [Accepted: 01/03/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Fear extinction is an active learning process whereby previously established conditioned responses to a conditioned stimulus are suppressed. Paradoxically, when extinction training is performed immediately following fear acquisition, the extinction memory is weakened. Here, we demonstrate that corticotrophin-releasing factor (CRF)-expressing neurons in the central amygdala (CeA) antagonize the extinction memory following immediate extinction training. CeA-CRF neurons transition from responding to the unconditioned stimulus to the conditioned stimulus during the acquisition of a fear memory that persists during immediate extinction training, but diminishes during delayed extinction training. Inhibition of CeA-CRF neurons during immediate extinction training is sufficient to promote enhanced extinction memories, and activation of these neurons following delay extinction training is sufficient to reinstate a previously extinguished fear memory. These results demonstrate CeA-CRF neurons are an important substrate for the persistence of fear and have broad implications for the neural basis of persistent negative affective behavioral states.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yong S. Jo
- 0000000122986657grid.34477.33Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, 1959 NE Pacific Street, Seattle, WA 98195 USA ,0000 0001 0840 2678grid.222754.4Department of Psychology, Korea University, 145 Anam-ro, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul, 02841 Republic of Korea
| | - Vijay Mohan K. Namboodiri
- 0000000122986657grid.34477.33Department of Anesthesiology, University of Washington, 1959 NE Pacific Street, Seattle, WA 98195 USA
| | - Garret D. Stuber
- 0000000122986657grid.34477.33Department of Anesthesiology, University of Washington, 1959 NE Pacific Street, Seattle, WA 98195 USA ,0000000122986657grid.34477.33Department of Pharmacology, University of Washington, 1959 NE Pacific Street, Seattle, WA 98195 USA
| | - Larry S. Zweifel
- 0000000122986657grid.34477.33Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, 1959 NE Pacific Street, Seattle, WA 98195 USA ,0000000122986657grid.34477.33Department of Pharmacology, University of Washington, 1959 NE Pacific Street, Seattle, WA 98195 USA
| |
Collapse
|
72
|
Torruella-Suárez ML, Vandenberg JR, Cogan ES, Tipton GJ, Teklezghi A, Dange K, Patel GK, McHenry JA, Hardaway JA, Kantak PA, Crowley NA, DiBerto JF, Faccidomo SP, Hodge CW, Stuber GD, McElligott ZA. Manipulations of Central Amygdala Neurotensin Neurons Alter the Consumption of Ethanol and Sweet Fluids in Mice. J Neurosci 2020; 40:632-647. [PMID: 31744862 PMCID: PMC6961987 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.1466-19.2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2019] [Revised: 10/11/2019] [Accepted: 11/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The central nucleus of the amygdala plays a significant role in alcohol use and other affective disorders; however, the genetically-defined neuronal subtypes and projections that govern these behaviors are not well known. Here we show that neurotensin neurons in the central nucleus of the amygdala of male mice are activated by in vivo ethanol consumption and that genetic ablation of these neurons decreases ethanol consumption and preference in non-ethanol-dependent animals. This ablation did not impact preference for sucrose, saccharin, or quinine. We found that the most robust projection of the central amygdala neurotensin neurons was to the parabrachial nucleus, a brain region known to be important in feeding behaviors, conditioned taste aversion, and alarm. Optogenetic stimulation of projections from these neurons to the parabrachial nucleus is reinforcing, and increases ethanol drinking as well as consumption of sucrose and saccharin solutions. These data suggest that this central amygdala to parabrachial nucleus projection influences the expression of reward-related phenotypes and is a novel circuit promoting consumption of ethanol and palatable fluids.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a major health burden worldwide. Although ethanol consumption is required for the development of AUD, much remains unknown regarding the underlying neural circuits that govern initial ethanol intake. Here we show that ablation of a population of neurotensin-expressing neurons in the central amygdala decreases intake of and preference for ethanol in non-dependent animals, whereas the projection of these neurons to the parabrachial nucleus promotes consumption of ethanol as well as other palatable fluids.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - J Andrew Hardaway
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies
- Department of Pharmacology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, 27599
| | | | | | - Jeffrey F DiBerto
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies
- Department of Pharmacology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, 27599
| | | | - Clyde W Hodge
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies
- Department of Psychiatry
| | - Garret D Stuber
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies
- Department of Psychiatry
- Neuroscience Center, and
| | - Zoé A McElligott
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies,
- Department of Psychiatry
- Department of Pharmacology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, 27599
| |
Collapse
|
73
|
A brainstem-central amygdala circuit underlies defensive responses to learned threats. Mol Psychiatry 2020; 25:640-654. [PMID: 31758092 PMCID: PMC7042728 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-019-0599-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2019] [Revised: 07/11/2019] [Accepted: 08/19/2019] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Norepinephrine (NE) plays a central role in the acquisition of aversive learning via actions in the lateral nucleus of the amygdala (LA) [1, 2]. However, the function of NE in expression of aversively-conditioned responses has not been established. Given the role of the central nucleus of the amygdala (CeA) in the expression of such behaviors [3-5], and the presence of NE axons projections in this brain nucleus [6], we assessed the effects of NE activity in the CeA on behavioral expression using receptor-specific pharmacology and cell- and projection-specific chemogenetic manipulations. We found that inhibition and activation of locus coeruleus (LC) neurons decreases and increases freezing to aversively conditioned cues, respectively. We then show that locally inhibiting or activating LC terminals in CeA is sufficient to achieve this bidirectional modulation of defensive reactions. These findings support the hypothesis that LC projections to CeA are critical for the expression of defensive responses elicited by conditioned threats.
Collapse
|
74
|
Stress peptides sensitize fear circuitry to promote passive coping. Mol Psychiatry 2020; 25:428-441. [PMID: 29904149 PMCID: PMC6169733 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-018-0089-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2016] [Revised: 04/04/2018] [Accepted: 04/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Survival relies on optimizing behavioral responses through experience. Animals often react to acute stress by switching to passive behavioral responses when coping with environmental challenge. Despite recent advances in dissecting mammalian circuitry for Pavlovian fear, the neuronal basis underlying this form of non-Pavlovian anxiety-related behavioral plasticity remains poorly understood. Here, we report that aversive experience recruits the posterior paraventricular thalamus (PVT) and corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) and sensitizes a Pavlovian fear circuit to promote passive responding. Site-specific lesions and optogenetic manipulations reveal that PVT-to-central amygdala (CE) projections activate anxiogenic neuronal populations in the CE that release local CRH in response to acute stress. CRH potentiates basolateral (BLA)-CE connectivity and antagonizes inhibitory gating of CE output, a mechanism linked to Pavlovian fear, to facilitate the switch from active to passive behavior. Thus, PVT-amygdala fear circuitry uses inhibitory gating in the CE as a shared dynamic motif, but relies on different cellular mechanisms (postsynaptic long-term potentiation vs. presynaptic facilitation), to multiplex active/passive response bias in Pavlovian and non-Pavlovian behavioral plasticity. These results establish a framework promoting stress-induced passive responding, which might contribute to passive emotional coping seen in human fear- and anxiety-related disorders.
Collapse
|
75
|
Kovner R, Oler JA, Kalin NH. Cortico-Limbic Interactions Mediate Adaptive and Maladaptive Responses Relevant to Psychopathology. Am J Psychiatry 2019; 176:987-999. [PMID: 31787014 PMCID: PMC7014786 DOI: 10.1176/appi.ajp.2019.19101064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Cortico-limbic circuits provide a substrate for adaptive behavioral and emotional responses. However, dysfunction of these circuits can result in maladaptive responses that are associated with psychopathology. The prefrontal-limbic pathways are of particular interest because they facilitate interactions among emotion, cognition, and decision-making functions, all of which are affected in psychiatric disorders. Regulatory aspects of the prefrontal cortex (PFC) are especially relevant to human psychopathology, as the PFC, in addition to its functions, is more recent from an evolutionary perspective and is considerably more complex in human and nonhuman primates compared with other species. This review provides a neuroanatomical and functional perspective of selected regions of the limbic system, the medial temporal lobe structures-the hippocampus and amygdala as well as regions of the PFC. Beyond the specific brain regions, emphasis is placed on the structure and function of critical PFC-limbic circuits, linking alterations in the processing of information across these pathways to the pathophysiology and psychopathology of various psychiatric illnesses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rothem Kovner
- Department of Neuroscience and Kavli Institute of Neuroscience,
Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Conn
| | - Jonathan A. Oler
- Department of Psychiatry and HealthEmotions Research Institute,
University of Wisconsin, Madison
| | - Ned H. Kalin
- Department of Psychiatry and HealthEmotions Research Institute,
University of Wisconsin, Madison
| |
Collapse
|
76
|
Hartley ND, Gaulden AD, Báldi R, Winters ND, Salimando GJ, Rosas-Vidal LE, Jameson A, Winder DG, Patel S. Dynamic remodeling of a basolateral-to-central amygdala glutamatergic circuit across fear states. Nat Neurosci 2019; 22:2000-2012. [PMID: 31712775 PMCID: PMC6884697 DOI: 10.1038/s41593-019-0528-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2018] [Accepted: 10/02/2019] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Acquisition and extinction of learned fear responses utilize conserved but flexible neural circuits. Here we show that acquisition of conditioned freezing behavior is associated with dynamic remodeling of relative excitatory drive from the basolateral amygdala (BLA) away from corticotropin releasing factor-expressing (CRF+) centrolateral amygdala neurons, and toward non-CRF+ (CRF-) and somatostatin-expressing (SOM+) neurons, while fear extinction training remodels this circuit back toward favoring CRF+ neurons. Importantly, BLA activity is required for this experience-dependent remodeling, while directed inhibition of the BLA-centrolateral amygdala circuit impairs both fear memory acquisition and extinction memory retrieval. Additionally, ectopic excitation of CRF+ neurons impairs fear memory acquisition and facilities extinction, whereas CRF+ neuron inhibition impairs extinction memory retrieval, supporting the notion that CRF+ neurons serve to inhibit learned freezing behavior. These data suggest that afferent-specific dynamic remodeling of relative excitatory drive to functionally distinct subcortical neuronal output populations represents an important mechanism underlying experience-dependent modification of behavioral selection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nolan D Hartley
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
- Vanderbilt Brain Institute, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Andrew D Gaulden
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Rita Báldi
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Nathan D Winters
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
- Department of Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Gregory J Salimando
- Vanderbilt Brain Institute, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
- Department of Molecular Physiology & Biophysics, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Luis Eduardo Rosas-Vidal
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Alexis Jameson
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
- Vanderbilt Brain Institute, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Danny G Winder
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
- Vanderbilt Brain Institute, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
- Department of Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN, USA
- Department of Molecular Physiology & Biophysics, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Sachin Patel
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA.
- Vanderbilt Brain Institute, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA.
- Department of Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN, USA.
- Department of Molecular Physiology & Biophysics, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
77
|
The association between serotonin transporter availability and the neural correlates of fear bradycardia. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2019; 116:25941-25947. [PMID: 31772023 PMCID: PMC6925990 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1904843116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Reduced expression of the serotonin transporter (5-HTT) is associated with susceptibility to stress-related psychopathology, but the underlying mechanisms remain elusive. We investigated whether an aberrant physiological and neural response to threat underlies this increased vulnerability. In a cross-species approach, we investigated the association between genetically encoded differences in 5-HTT expression and the neural correlates of fear bradycardia, a defensive response linked to vigilance. In both humans and rats, reduced 5-HTT expression was associated with exaggerated bradycardia or bradycardia-associated freezing, reduced activity of the medial prefrontal cortex, and increased threat-induced amygdala-periaqueductal grey connectivity and central amygdala somatostatin neuron activity. We have delineated a previously unknown neurogenetic mechanism underlying individual differences in the expression of anticipatory threat responses, contributing to stress sensitivity. Susceptibility to stress-related psychopathology is associated with reduced expression of the serotonin transporter (5-HTT), particularly in combination with stress exposure. Aberrant physiological and neuronal responses to threat may underlie this increased vulnerability. Here, implementing a cross-species approach, we investigated the association between 5-HTT expression and the neural correlates of fear bradycardia, a defensive response linked to vigilance and action preparation. We tested this during threat anticipation induced by a well-established fear conditioning paradigm applied in both humans and rodents. In humans, we studied the effect of the common 5-HTT-linked polymorphic region (5-HTTLPR) on bradycardia and neural responses to anticipatory threat during functional magnetic resonance imaging scanning in healthy volunteers (n = 104). Compared with homozygous long-allele carriers, the 5-HTTLPR short-allele carriers displayed an exaggerated bradycardic response to threat, overall reduced activation of the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC), and increased threat-induced connectivity between the amygdala and periaqueductal gray (PAG), which statistically mediated the effect of the 5-HTTLPR genotype on bradycardia. In parallel, 5-HTT knockout (KO) rats also showed exaggerated threat-related bradycardia and behavioral freezing. Immunohistochemistry indicated overall reduced activity of glutamatergic neurons in the mPFC of KO rats and increased activity of central amygdala somatostatin-positive neurons, putatively projecting to the PAG, which—similarly to the human population—mediated the 5-HTT genotype’s effect on freezing. Moreover, the ventrolateral PAG of KO rats displayed elevated overall activity and increased relative activation of CaMKII-expressing projection neurons. Our results provide a mechanistic explanation for previously reported associations between 5-HTT gene variance and a stress-sensitive phenotype.
Collapse
|
78
|
Insights into the Neurobiology of Anxiety and a Potential Target for Pharmacotherapy. J Neurosci 2019; 38:8919-8921. [PMID: 30333184 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.1461-18.2018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2018] [Revised: 08/27/2018] [Accepted: 09/02/2018] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
|
79
|
Molecular, Morphological, and Functional Characterization of Corticotropin-Releasing Factor Receptor 1-Expressing Neurons in the Central Nucleus of the Amygdala. eNeuro 2019; 6:ENEURO.0087-19.2019. [PMID: 31167849 PMCID: PMC6584068 DOI: 10.1523/eneuro.0087-19.2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2019] [Revised: 05/12/2019] [Accepted: 05/25/2019] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The central nucleus of the amygdala (CeA) is a brain region implicated in anxiety, stress-related disorders and the reinforcing effects of drugs of abuse. Corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF, Crh) acting at cognate type 1 receptors (CRF1, Crhr1) modulates inhibitory and excitatory synaptic transmission in the CeA. Here, we used CRF1:GFP reporter mice to characterize the morphological, neurochemical and electrophysiological properties of CRF1-expressing (CRF1+) and CRF1-non-expressing (CRF1-) neurons in the CeA. We assessed these two neuronal populations for distinctions in the expression of GABAergic subpopulation markers and neuropeptides, dendritic spine density and morphology, and excitatory transmission. We observed that CeA CRF1+ neurons are GABAergic but do not segregate with calbindin (CB), calretinin (CR), parvalbumin (PV), or protein kinase C-δ (PKCδ). Among the neuropeptides analyzed, Penk and Sst had the highest percentage of co-expression with Crhr1 in both the medial and lateral CeA subdivisions. Additionally, CeA CRF1+ neurons had a lower density of dendritic spines, which was offset by a higher proportion of mature spines compared to neighboring CRF1- neurons. Accordingly, there was no difference in basal spontaneous glutamatergic transmission between the two populations. Application of CRF increased overall vesicular glutamate release onto both CRF1+ and CRF1- neurons and does not affect amplitude or kinetics of EPSCs in either population. These novel data highlight important differences in the neurochemical make-up and morphology of CRF1+ compared to CRF1- neurons, which may have important implications for the transduction of CRF signaling in the CeA.
Collapse
|
80
|
Zhou Z, Liu X, Chen S, Zhang Z, Liu Y, Montardy Q, Tang Y, Wei P, Liu N, Li L, Song R, Lai J, He X, Chen C, Bi G, Feng G, Xu F, Wang L. A VTA GABAergic Neural Circuit Mediates Visually Evoked Innate Defensive Responses. Neuron 2019; 103:473-488.e6. [PMID: 31202540 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2019.05.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 117] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2018] [Revised: 03/11/2019] [Accepted: 05/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Innate defensive responses are essential for animal survival and are conserved across species. The ventral tegmental area (VTA) plays important roles in learned appetitive and aversive behaviors, but whether it plays a role in mediating or modulating innate defensive responses is currently unknown. We report that VTAGABA+ neurons respond to a looming stimulus. Inhibition of VTAGABA+ neurons reduced looming-evoked defensive flight behavior, and photoactivation of these neurons resulted in defense-like flight behavior. Using viral tracing and electrophysiological recordings, we show that VTAGABA+ neurons receive direct excitatory inputs from the superior colliculus (SC). Furthermore, we show that glutamatergic SC-VTA projections synapse onto VTAGABA+ neurons that project to the central nucleus of the amygdala (CeA) and that the CeA is involved in mediating the defensive behavior. Our findings demonstrate that aerial threat-related visual information is relayed to VTAGABA+ neurons mediating innate behavioral responses, suggesting a more general role of the VTA.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zheng Zhou
- Shenzhen Key Lab of Neuropsychiatric Modulation and Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Brain Connectome and Behavior, CAS Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Brain Cognition and Brain Disease Institute (BCBDI), Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science-Shenzhen Fundamental Research Institutions, Shenzhen 518055, China; University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Xuemei Liu
- Shenzhen Key Lab of Neuropsychiatric Modulation and Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Brain Connectome and Behavior, CAS Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Brain Cognition and Brain Disease Institute (BCBDI), Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science-Shenzhen Fundamental Research Institutions, Shenzhen 518055, China; University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Shanping Chen
- Shenzhen Key Lab of Neuropsychiatric Modulation and Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Brain Connectome and Behavior, CAS Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Brain Cognition and Brain Disease Institute (BCBDI), Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science-Shenzhen Fundamental Research Institutions, Shenzhen 518055, China; University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Zhijian Zhang
- Center for Brain Science, Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance in Biological Systems and State Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance and Atomic and Molecular Physics, Wuhan Institute of Physics and Mathematics, CAS, Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Yuanming Liu
- Shenzhen Key Lab of Neuropsychiatric Modulation and Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Brain Connectome and Behavior, CAS Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Brain Cognition and Brain Disease Institute (BCBDI), Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science-Shenzhen Fundamental Research Institutions, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Quentin Montardy
- Shenzhen Key Lab of Neuropsychiatric Modulation and Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Brain Connectome and Behavior, CAS Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Brain Cognition and Brain Disease Institute (BCBDI), Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science-Shenzhen Fundamental Research Institutions, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Yongqiang Tang
- Shenzhen Key Lab of Neuropsychiatric Modulation and Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Brain Connectome and Behavior, CAS Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Brain Cognition and Brain Disease Institute (BCBDI), Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science-Shenzhen Fundamental Research Institutions, Shenzhen 518055, China; University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Pengfei Wei
- Shenzhen Key Lab of Neuropsychiatric Modulation and Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Brain Connectome and Behavior, CAS Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Brain Cognition and Brain Disease Institute (BCBDI), Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science-Shenzhen Fundamental Research Institutions, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Nan Liu
- Shenzhen Key Lab of Neuropsychiatric Modulation and Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Brain Connectome and Behavior, CAS Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Brain Cognition and Brain Disease Institute (BCBDI), Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science-Shenzhen Fundamental Research Institutions, Shenzhen 518055, China; University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Lei Li
- Shenzhen Key Lab of Neuropsychiatric Modulation and Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Brain Connectome and Behavior, CAS Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Brain Cognition and Brain Disease Institute (BCBDI), Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science-Shenzhen Fundamental Research Institutions, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Ru Song
- Shenzhen Key Lab of Neuropsychiatric Modulation and Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Brain Connectome and Behavior, CAS Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Brain Cognition and Brain Disease Institute (BCBDI), Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science-Shenzhen Fundamental Research Institutions, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Juan Lai
- Shenzhen Key Lab of Neuropsychiatric Modulation and Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Brain Connectome and Behavior, CAS Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Brain Cognition and Brain Disease Institute (BCBDI), Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science-Shenzhen Fundamental Research Institutions, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Xiaobin He
- Center for Brain Science, Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance in Biological Systems and State Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance and Atomic and Molecular Physics, Wuhan Institute of Physics and Mathematics, CAS, Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Chen Chen
- Shenzhen Key Lab of Neuropsychiatric Modulation and Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Brain Connectome and Behavior, CAS Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Brain Cognition and Brain Disease Institute (BCBDI), Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science-Shenzhen Fundamental Research Institutions, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Guoqiang Bi
- School of Life Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Guoping Feng
- McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Fuqiang Xu
- Center for Brain Science, Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance in Biological Systems and State Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance and Atomic and Molecular Physics, Wuhan Institute of Physics and Mathematics, CAS, Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430071, China.
| | - Liping Wang
- Shenzhen Key Lab of Neuropsychiatric Modulation and Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Brain Connectome and Behavior, CAS Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Brain Cognition and Brain Disease Institute (BCBDI), Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen-Hong Kong Institute of Brain Science-Shenzhen Fundamental Research Institutions, Shenzhen 518055, China; University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China.
| |
Collapse
|
81
|
Zhang CQ, McMahon B, Dong H, Warner T, Shen W, Gallagher M, Macdonald RL, Kang JQ. Molecular basis for and chemogenetic modulation of comorbidities in GABRG2-deficient epilepsies. Epilepsia 2019; 60:1137-1149. [PMID: 31087664 DOI: 10.1111/epi.15160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2018] [Revised: 04/15/2019] [Accepted: 04/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE γ-Aminobutyric acid type A (GABAA ) receptor subunit gene mutations are significant causes of epilepsy, which are often accompanied by various neuropsychiatric comorbidities, but the underlying mechanisms are unclear. It has been suggested that the comorbidities are caused by seizures, as the comorbidities often present in severe epilepsy syndromes. However, findings from both humans and animal models argue against this conclusion. Mutations in the GABAA receptor γ2 subunit gene GABRG2 have been associated with anxiety alone or with severe epilepsy syndromes and comorbid anxiety, suggesting that a core molecular defect gives rise to the phenotypic spectrum. Here, we determined the pathophysiology of comorbid anxiety in GABRG2 loss-of-function epilepsy syndromes, identified the central nucleus of the amygdala (CeA) as a primary site for epilepsy comorbid anxiety, and demonstrated a potential rescue of comorbid anxiety via neuromodulation of CeA neurons. METHODS We used brain slice recordings, subcellular fractionation with Western blot, immunohistochemistry, confocal microscopy, and a battery of behavior tests in combination with a chemogenetic approach to characterize anxiety and its underlying mechanisms in a Gabrg2+/Q390X knockin mouse and a Gabrg2+/- knockout mouse, each associated with a different epilepsy syndrome. RESULTS We found that impaired GABAergic neurotransmission in CeA underlies anxiety in epilepsy, which is due to reduced GABAA receptor subunit expression resulting from the mutations. Impaired GABAA receptor expression reduced GABAergic neurotransmission in CeA, but not in basolateral amygdala. Activation or inactivation of inhibitory neurons using a chemogenetic approach in CeA alone modulated anxietylike behaviors. Similarly, pharmacological enhancement of GABAergic signaling via γ2 subunit-containing receptors relieved the anxiety. SIGNIFICANCE Together, these data demonstrate the molecular basis for a comorbidity of epilepsy, anxiety, and suggest that impaired GABAA receptor function in CeA due to a loss-of-function mutation could at least contribute to anxiety. Modulation of CeA neurons could cause or suppress anxiety, suggesting a potential use of CeA neurons as therapeutic targets for treatment of anxiety in addition to traditional pharmacological approaches.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chun-Qing Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee.,Department of Neurosurgery, Xinqiao Hospital, Army Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Bryan McMahon
- Department of Neurology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Huancheng Dong
- Department of Neurology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Timothy Warner
- Department of Neurology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Wangzhen Shen
- Department of Neurology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Martin Gallagher
- Department of Neurology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Robert L Macdonald
- Department of Neurology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee.,Department of Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee.,Vanderbilt Brain Institute, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Jing-Qiong Kang
- Department of Neurology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee.,Department of Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee.,Vanderbilt Brain Institute, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| |
Collapse
|
82
|
Dong P, Wang H, Shen XF, Jiang P, Zhu XT, Li Y, Gao JH, Lin S, Huang Y, He XB, Xu FQ, Duan S, Lian H, Wang H, Chen J, Li XM. A novel cortico-intrathalamic circuit for flight behavior. Nat Neurosci 2019; 22:941-949. [DOI: 10.1038/s41593-019-0391-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2018] [Accepted: 03/19/2019] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
|
83
|
Yan H, Li B, Wang J. Non-equilibrium landscape and flux reveal how the central amygdala circuit gates passive and active defensive responses. J R Soc Interface 2019; 16:20180756. [PMID: 30966954 PMCID: PMC6505558 DOI: 10.1098/rsif.2018.0756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2018] [Accepted: 03/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Uncovering the underlying physical principles of biology is important for understanding the biological function yet challenging. Take an example, the animals' defensive systems are very effective to threats. However, the underlying physical mechanisms are still unclear. We developed a non-equilibrium physics framework in terms of landscape and flux to study a central lateral amygdala (CeL) neural circuit based on experimental findings. We show that the distinct active and passive defensive responses of the animals upon threats are a result of non-equilibrium phase transitions. Such non-equilibrium phase transitions result from thermodynamic symmetry breaking, which is induced dynamically by the non-equilibrium flux. This gives rise to the emergence and selection of passive and active fear defensive responses, which can be quantified by the changes on the topography of the underlying non-equilibrium landscape. We have found the strengthened synaptic transmissions to both the SOM+ and SOM- CeL neurons are necessary for the acquisition and expression of active fear responses. This suggests a way to induce active responses and facilitates the design of new therapeutic strategies for cognitive dysfunction. We have also found that sufficient energy supply is crucial for the ability of selecting the appropriate defensive responses through stabilizing functional states against fluctuations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Han Yan
- State Key Laboratory of Electroanalytical Chemistry, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun, Jilin 130022, People’s Republic of China
| | - Bo Li
- Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, New York 11724, NY, USA
| | - Jin Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Electroanalytical Chemistry, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun, Jilin 130022, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Chemistry and Physics, State University of New York at Stony Brook, Stony Brook, NY 11794, USA
| |
Collapse
|
84
|
Cell-type specific parallel circuits in the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis and the central nucleus of the amygdala of the mouse. Brain Struct Funct 2019; 224:1067-1095. [PMID: 30610368 DOI: 10.1007/s00429-018-01825-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2018] [Accepted: 12/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
The central extended amygdala (EAc) is a forebrain macrosystem which has been widely implicated in reward, fear, anxiety, and pain. Its two key structures, the lateral bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BSTL) and the central nucleus of the amygdala (CeA), share similar mesoscale connectivity. However, it is not known whether they also share similar cell-specific neuronal circuits. We addressed this question using tract-tracing and immunofluorescence to reveal the EAc microcircuits involving two neuronal populations expressing either protein kinase C delta (PKCδ) or somatostatin (SOM). PKCδ and SOM are expressed predominantly in the dorsal BSTL (BSTLD) and in the lateral/capsular parts of CeA (CeL/C). We found that, in both BSTLD and CeL/C, PKCδ+ cells are the main recipient of extra-EAc inputs from the lateral parabrachial nucleus (LPB), while SOM+ cells constitute the main source of long-range projections to extra-EAc targets, including LPB and periaqueductal gray. PKCδ+ cells can also integrate inputs from the basolateral nucleus of the amygdala or insular cortex. Within EAc, PKCδ+, but not SOM+ neurons, serve as the major source of inputs to the ventral BSTL and to the medial part of CeA. However, both cell types can be involved in mutual connections between BSTLD and CeL/C. These results unveil the pivotal positions of PKCδ+ and SOM+ neurons in organizing parallel cell-specific neuronal circuits within CeA and BSTL, but also between them, which further reinforce the notion of EAc as a structural and functional macrosystem.
Collapse
|
85
|
Kovner R, Fox AS, French DA, Roseboom PH, Oler JA, Fudge JL, Kalin NH. Somatostatin Gene and Protein Expression in the Non-human Primate Central Extended Amygdala. Neuroscience 2019; 400:157-168. [PMID: 30610938 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2018.12.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2018] [Revised: 12/04/2018] [Accepted: 12/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Alterations in central extended amygdala (EAc) function have been linked to anxiety, depression, and anxious temperament (AT), the early-life risk to develop these disorders. The EAc is composed of the central nucleus of the amygdala (Ce), the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BST), and the sublenticular extended amygdala (SLEA). Using a non-human primate model of AT and multimodal neuroimaging, the Ce and the BST were identified as key AT-related regions. Both areas are primarily comprised of GABAergic neurons and the lateral Ce (CeL) and lateral BST (BSTL) have among the highest expression of neuropeptides in the brain. Somatostatin (SST) is of particular interest because mouse studies demonstrate that SST neurons, along with corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) neurons, contribute to a threat-relevant EAc microcircuit. Although the distribution of CeL and BSTL SST neurons has been explored in rodents, this system is not well described in non-human primates. In situ hybridization demonstrated an anterior-posterior gradient of SST mRNA in the CeL but not the BSTL of non-human primates. Triple-labeling immunofluorescence staining revealed that SST protein-expressing cell bodies are a small proportion of the total CeL and BSTL neurons and have considerable co-labeling with CRF. The SLEA exhibited strong SST mRNA and protein expression, suggesting a role for SST in mediating information transfer between the CeL and BSTL. These data provide the foundation for mechanistic non-human primate studies focused on understanding EAc function in neuropsychiatric disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rothem Kovner
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA; Neuroscience Training Program, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA; HealthEmotions Research Institute, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA.
| | - Andrew S Fox
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Davis, CA, USA; California National Primate Research Center, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Delores A French
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA; HealthEmotions Research Institute, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Patrick H Roseboom
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA; HealthEmotions Research Institute, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Jonathan A Oler
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA; HealthEmotions Research Institute, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Julie L Fudge
- Department of Psychiatry, Rochester, NY, USA; Department of Neuroscience, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - Ned H Kalin
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA; Neuroscience Training Program, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA; HealthEmotions Research Institute, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
86
|
Paretkar T, Dimitrov E. Activation of enkephalinergic (Enk) interneurons in the central amygdala (CeA) buffers the behavioral effects of persistent pain. Neurobiol Dis 2018; 124:364-372. [PMID: 30572023 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2018.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2018] [Revised: 10/23/2018] [Accepted: 12/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Enk neurons in CeA modulate the activity of the amygdala projection neurons and it is very likely that changes of Enk signaling cause the heightened anxiety that accompanies chronic pain. We use chemogenetics and transgenic mice to investigate the effects of acute and continuous activation of the amygdala Enk neurons on persistent pain and anxiodepressive-like behavior in mice. Enk-cre mice were injected bilaterally into the CeA with cre-activated AAV-DREADD/Gq/mCherry, while neuropathic pain was induced by sciatic nerve constriction. A single injection of DREADD's ligand CNO decreased the anxiety-like behavior in both, uninjured mice and in mice with neuropathic pain and produced robust analgesia that lasted for 24 h. Furthermore, the activation of Enk neurons by the DREADD ligand led to increased c-Fos expression in PKC-δ interneurons of the CeA and in non-serotonergic neurons in the ventrolateral periaqueductal gray (vlPAG), a brain structure that is an essential part of the descending pain inhibitory system. Next, we added CNO to the drinking water of the experimental mice for 14 days in order to assess the effects of continuous activation of CeA Enk interneurons on anxiodepressive-like behavior, which is affected by chronic pain. The prolonged activation of the CeA Enk interneurons reduced neohypophagia in the novelty suppressed feeding test and increased ΔFosB (a marker for sustained neuronal activation) in the vlPAG of mice with chronic pain. All together, the results of our experiments point to an important role of the CeA Enk neurons in the control of both nociception and emotion. Activation of Enk neurons resulted in sustained analgesia accompanied by anxiolysis and antidepressant effects. Very likely, these effects of CeA Enk neurons are result of the activation of vlPAG, a brain region that is essential not only for descending inhibition of pain but it is also a core element in the resilience to stress.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tanvi Paretkar
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Chicago Medical School Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, 3333 Green Bay Rd., North Chicago, IL 60064, United States.
| | - Eugene Dimitrov
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Chicago Medical School Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, 3333 Green Bay Rd., North Chicago, IL 60064, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
87
|
Abstract
The neural mechanisms underlying emotional valence are at the interface between perception and action, integrating inputs from the external environment with past experiences to guide the behavior of an organism. Depending on the positive or negative valence assigned to an environmental stimulus, the organism will approach or avoid the source of the stimulus. Multiple convergent studies have demonstrated that the amygdala complex is a critical node of the circuits assigning valence. Here we examine the current progress in identifying valence coding properties of neural populations in different nuclei of the amygdala, based on their activity, connectivity, and gene expression profile.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michele Pignatelli
- Picower Institute for Learning and Memory, Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, 02139 MA, USA
| | - Anna Beyeler
- Neurocentre Magendie, INSERM 1215, Université de Bordeaux, 146 Rue Léo Saignat, 33000 Bordeaux, France
| |
Collapse
|
88
|
Agoglia AE, Herman MA. The center of the emotional universe: Alcohol, stress, and CRF1 amygdala circuitry. Alcohol 2018; 72:61-73. [PMID: 30220589 PMCID: PMC6165695 DOI: 10.1016/j.alcohol.2018.03.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2018] [Revised: 03/15/2018] [Accepted: 03/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The commonalities between different phases of stress and alcohol use as well as the high comorbidity between alcohol use disorders (AUDs) and anxiety disorders suggest common underlying cellular mechanisms governing the rewarding and aversive aspects of these related conditions. As an integrative center that assigns emotional salience to a wide variety of internal and external stimuli, the amygdala complex plays a major role in how alcohol and stress influence cellular physiology to produce disordered behavior. Previous work has illustrated the broad role of the amygdala in alcohol, stress, and anxiety. However, the challenge of current and future studies is to identify the specific dysregulations that occur within distinct amygdala circuits and subpopulations and the commonalities between these alterations in each disorder, with the long-term goal of identifying potential targets for therapeutic intervention. Specific intra-amygdala circuits and cell type-specific subpopulations are emerging as critical targets for stress- and alcohol-induced plasticity, chief among them the corticotropin releasing factor (CRF) and CRF receptor 1 (CRF1) system. CRF and CRF1 have been implicated in the effects of alcohol in several amygdala nuclei, including the basolateral (BLA) and central amygdala (CeA); however, the precise circuitry involved in these effects and the role of these circuits in stress and anxiety are only beginning to be understood.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abigail E Agoglia
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, United States
| | - Melissa A Herman
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
89
|
Luchkina NV, Bolshakov VY. Diminishing fear: Optogenetic approach toward understanding neural circuits of fear control. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2018; 174:64-79. [PMID: 28502746 PMCID: PMC5681900 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2017.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2017] [Revised: 04/13/2017] [Accepted: 05/10/2017] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Understanding complex behavioral processes, both learned and innate, requires detailed characterization of the principles governing signal flow in corresponding neural circuits. Previous studies were hampered by the lack of appropriate tools needed to address the complexities of behavior-driving micro- and macrocircuits. The development and implementation of optogenetic methodologies revolutionized the field of behavioral neuroscience, allowing precise spatiotemporal control of specific, genetically defined neuronal populations and their functional connectivity both in vivo and ex vivo, thus providing unprecedented insights into the cellular and network-level mechanisms contributing to behavior. Here, we review recent pioneering advances in behavioral studies with optogenetic tools, focusing on mechanisms of fear-related behavioral processes with an emphasis on approaches which could be used to suppress fear when it is pathologically expressed. We also discuss limitations of these methodologies as well as review new technological developments which could be used in future mechanistic studies of fear behavior.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Natalia V Luchkina
- Department of Psychiatry, McLean Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Belmont, MA 02478, USA.
| | - Vadim Y Bolshakov
- Department of Psychiatry, McLean Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Belmont, MA 02478, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
90
|
Tye KM. Neural Circuit Motifs in Valence Processing. Neuron 2018; 100:436-452. [PMID: 30359607 PMCID: PMC6590698 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2018.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 142] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2018] [Revised: 09/24/2018] [Accepted: 09/28/2018] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
How do our brains determine whether something is good or bad? How is this computational goal implemented in biological systems? Given the critical importance of valence processing for survival, the brain has evolved multiple strategies to solve this problem at different levels. The psychological concept of "emotional valence" is now beginning to find grounding in neuroscience. This review aims to bridge the gap between psychology and neuroscience on the topic of emotional valence processing. Here, I highlight a subset of studies that exemplify circuit motifs that repeatedly appear as implementational systems in valence processing. The motifs I identify as being important in valence processing include (1) Labeled Lines, (2) Divergent Paths, (3) Opposing Components, and (4) Neuromodulatory Gain. Importantly, the functionality of neural substrates in valence processing is dynamic, context-dependent, and changing across short and long timescales due to synaptic plasticity, competing mechanisms, and homeostatic need.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kay M Tye
- Picower Institute for Learning and Memory, Dept of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, MIT, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; Salk Institute for Biological Sciences, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
91
|
Abstract
Anticipatory defensive responses to an aversive or harmful event depend on memories linking the event with the predictive environmental cues. Extensive evidence indicates that the central amygdala is essential for the acquisition and recall of such memories. The evidence came initially from studies that relied on traditional lesion and pharmacological techniques, and recently from studies in which new methodologies were used to target, record and manipulate neuronal activities with improved precision and specificity. In this review, I will discuss the current understanding of the roles of central amygdala neurons in the learning and expression of defensive behaviors, with a focus on the major neuronal populations identified on the basis of their genetic markers.
Collapse
|
92
|
Issa HA, Staes N, Diggs-Galligan S, Stimpson CD, Gendron-Fitzpatrick A, Taglialatela JP, Hof PR, Hopkins WD, Sherwood CC. Comparison of bonobo and chimpanzee brain microstructure reveals differences in socio-emotional circuits. Brain Struct Funct 2018; 224:239-251. [DOI: 10.1007/s00429-018-1751-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2018] [Accepted: 09/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
|
93
|
Barbier M, Fellmann D, Risold PY. Characterization of McDonald's intermediate part of the Central nucleus of the amygdala in the rat. J Comp Neurol 2018; 526:2165-2186. [PMID: 29893014 DOI: 10.1002/cne.24470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2018] [Revised: 05/14/2018] [Accepted: 05/17/2018] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
The actual organization of the central nucleus of the amygdala (CEA) in the rat is mostly based on cytoarchitecture and the distribution of several cell types, as described by McDonald in 1982. Four divisions were identified by this author. However, since this original work, one of these divisions, the intermediate part, has not been consistently recognized based on Nissl-stained material. In the present study, we observed that a compact condensation of retrogradely labeled cells is found in the CEA after fluorogold injection in the anterior region of the tuberal lateral hypothalamic area (LHA) in the rat. We then searched for neurochemical markers of this cell condensation and found that it is quite specifically labeled for calbindin (Cb), but also contains calretinin (Cr), tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) and methionine-enkephalin (Met-Enk) immunohistochemical signals. These neurochemical features are specific to this cell group which, therefore, is distinct from the other parts of the CEA. We then performed cholera toxin injections in the mouse LHA to identify this cell group in this species. We found that neurons exist in the medial and rostral CEAl that project into the LHA but they have a less tight organization than in the rat.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marie Barbier
- EA481, UFR Sciences Médicales et Pharmaceutiques, 19 rue Ambroise Paré, Université Bourgogne Franche-Comté, Besançon cedex, 25030, France
| | - Dominique Fellmann
- EA481, UFR Sciences Médicales et Pharmaceutiques, 19 rue Ambroise Paré, Université Bourgogne Franche-Comté, Besançon cedex, 25030, France
| | - Pierre-Yves Risold
- EA481, UFR Sciences Médicales et Pharmaceutiques, 19 rue Ambroise Paré, Université Bourgogne Franche-Comté, Besançon cedex, 25030, France
| |
Collapse
|
94
|
McCullough KM, Daskalakis NP, Gafford G, Morrison FG, Ressler KJ. Cell-type-specific interrogation of CeA Drd2 neurons to identify targets for pharmacological modulation of fear extinction. Transl Psychiatry 2018; 8:164. [PMID: 30135420 PMCID: PMC6105686 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-018-0190-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2018] [Revised: 04/23/2018] [Accepted: 06/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Behavioral and molecular characterization of cell-type-specific populations governing fear learning and behavior is a promising avenue for the rational identification of potential therapeutics for fear-related disorders. Examining cell-type-specific changes in neuronal translation following fear learning allows for targeted pharmacological intervention during fear extinction learning, mirroring possible treatment strategies in humans. Here we identify the central amygdala (CeA) Drd2-expressing population as a novel fear-supporting neuronal population that is molecularly distinct from other, previously identified, fear-supporting CeA populations. Sequencing of actively translating transcripts of Drd2 neurons using translating ribosome affinity purification (TRAP) technology identifies mRNAs that are differentially regulated following fear learning. Differentially expressed transcripts with potentially targetable gene products include Npy5r, Rxrg, Adora2a, Sst5r, Fgf3, Erbb4, Fkbp14, Dlk1, and Ssh3. Direct pharmacological manipulation of NPY5R, RXR, and ADORA2A confirms the importance of this cell population and these cell-type-specific receptors in fear behavior. Furthermore, these findings validate the use of functionally identified specific cell populations to predict novel pharmacological targets for the modulation of emotional learning.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth M McCullough
- Division of Depression and Anxiety Disorders, McLean Hospital, Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, and Behavioral Sciences, Behavioral Neuroscience, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Nikolaos P Daskalakis
- Division of Depression and Anxiety Disorders, McLean Hospital, Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Georgette Gafford
- Department of Psychiatry, and Behavioral Sciences, Behavioral Neuroscience, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Filomene G Morrison
- Department of Psychiatry, and Behavioral Sciences, Behavioral Neuroscience, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
- VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA
- Behavioral Science Division, National Center for PTSD, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Kerry J Ressler
- Division of Depression and Anxiety Disorders, McLean Hospital, Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
- Department of Psychiatry, and Behavioral Sciences, Behavioral Neuroscience, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
95
|
Artinian J, Lacaille JC. Disinhibition in learning and memory circuits: New vistas for somatostatin interneurons and long-term synaptic plasticity. Brain Res Bull 2018; 141:20-26. [DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2017.11.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2017] [Revised: 11/08/2017] [Accepted: 11/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
|
96
|
Lee JH, Kimm S, Han JS, Choi JS. Chasing as a model of psychogenic stress: characterization of physiological and behavioral responses. Stress 2018; 21:323-332. [PMID: 29577783 DOI: 10.1080/10253890.2018.1455090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Being chased by a predator or a dominant conspecific can induce significant stress. However, only a limited number of laboratory studies have employed chasing by itself as a stressor. In this study, we developed a novel stress paradigm in which rats were chased by a fast-moving object in an inescapable maze. In Experiment 1, defensive behaviors and stress hormone changes induced by chasing stress were measured. During the chasing stress, the chasing-stress group (n = 9) froze and emitted 22-kHz ultrasonic vocalizations (USVs), but the no-chasing control group (n = 10) did not. Plasma corticosterone levels significantly increased following the chasing and were comparable to those of the restraint-stress group (n = 6). In Experiment 2, the long-lasting memory of the chasing event was tested after three weeks. The chasing-stress group (n = 15) showed higher levels of freezing and USV than the no-chasing group (n = 14) when they were presented with the tone associated with the object's chasing action. Subsequently, the rats were subjected to Pavlovian threat conditioning with a tone as a conditioned stimulus and footshock as an unconditioned stimulus. The chasing-stress group showed higher levels of freezing and USV during the conditioning session than the no-chasing group, indicating sensitized defensive reactions in a different threat situation. Taken together, the current results suggest that chasing stress can induce long-lasting memory and sensitization of defensive responses to a new aversive event as well as immediate, significant stress responses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ji-Hye Lee
- a Department of Psychology , Korea University , Seoul , South Korea
| | - Sunwhi Kimm
- a Department of Psychology , Korea University , Seoul , South Korea
| | - Jung-Soo Han
- b Department of Biological Sciences , Konkuk University , Seoul , South Korea
| | - June-Seek Choi
- a Department of Psychology , Korea University , Seoul , South Korea
| |
Collapse
|
97
|
Dorsal tegmental dopamine neurons gate associative learning of fear. Nat Neurosci 2018; 21:952-962. [PMID: 29950668 PMCID: PMC6166775 DOI: 10.1038/s41593-018-0174-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2018] [Accepted: 05/10/2018] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Functional neuroanatomy of Pavlovian fear has identified neuronal circuits and synapses associating conditioned stimuli with aversive events. Hebbian plasticity within these networks requires additional reinforcement to store particularly salient experiences into long-term memory. Here, we have identified a circuit reciprocally connecting the ventral periaqueductal grey (vPAG)/dorsal raphe (DR) region and the central amygdala (CE) that gates fear learning. We found that vPAG/DR dopaminergic (vPdRD) neurons encode a positive prediction error in response to unpredicted shocks, and may reshape intra-amygdala connectivity via a dopamine-dependent form of long-term potentiation (LTP). Negative feedback from the CE to vPdRD neurons might limit reinforcement to events that have not been predicted. These findings add a new module to the midbrain DA circuit architecture underlying associative reinforcement learning and identify vPdRD neurons as critical component of Pavlovian fear conditioning. We propose that dysregulation of vPdRD neuronal activity may contribute to fear-related psychiatric disorders.
Collapse
|
98
|
Cui Y, Lv G, Jin S, Peng J, Yuan J, He X, Gong H, Xu F, Xu T, Li H. A Central Amygdala-Substantia Innominata Neural Circuitry Encodes Aversive Reinforcement Signals. Cell Rep 2018; 21:1770-1782. [PMID: 29141212 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2017.10.062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2017] [Revised: 09/26/2017] [Accepted: 10/16/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Aversive stimuli can impact motivation and support associative learning as reinforcers. However, the neural circuitry underlying the processing of aversive reinforcers has not been elucidated. Here, we report that a subpopulation of central amygdala (CeA) GABAergic neurons expressing protein kinase C-delta (PKC-δ+) displays robust responses to aversive stimuli during negative reinforcement learning. Importantly, projections from PKC-δ+ neurons of the CeA to the substantia innominata (SI) could bi-directionally modulate negative reinforcement learning. Moreover, consistent with the idea that SI-projecting PKC-δ+ neurons of the CeA encode aversive information, optogenetic activation of this pathway produces conditioned place aversion, a behavior prevented by simultaneous ablating of SI glutamatergic neurons. Taken together, our data define a cell-type-specific neural circuitry modulating associative learning by encoding aversive reinforcement signals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuting Cui
- Britton Chance Center for Biomedical Photonics, Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430074, China; MoE Key Laboratory for Biomedical Photonics, Collaborative Innovation Center for Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering Sciences, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430074, China
| | - Guanghui Lv
- Britton Chance Center for Biomedical Photonics, Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430074, China; MoE Key Laboratory for Biomedical Photonics, Collaborative Innovation Center for Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering Sciences, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430074, China
| | - Sen Jin
- Center for Brain Science, Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance in Biological Systems and State Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance and Atomic and Molecular Physics, Wuhan Institute of Physics and Mathematics, CAS Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences Wuhan, China
| | - Jie Peng
- Britton Chance Center for Biomedical Photonics, Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430074, China; MoE Key Laboratory for Biomedical Photonics, Collaborative Innovation Center for Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering Sciences, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430074, China
| | - Jing Yuan
- Britton Chance Center for Biomedical Photonics, Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430074, China; MoE Key Laboratory for Biomedical Photonics, Collaborative Innovation Center for Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering Sciences, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430074, China
| | - Xiaobin He
- Center for Brain Science, Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance in Biological Systems and State Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance and Atomic and Molecular Physics, Wuhan Institute of Physics and Mathematics, CAS Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences Wuhan, China
| | - Hui Gong
- Britton Chance Center for Biomedical Photonics, Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430074, China; MoE Key Laboratory for Biomedical Photonics, Collaborative Innovation Center for Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering Sciences, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430074, China
| | - Fuqiang Xu
- Britton Chance Center for Biomedical Photonics, Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430074, China; MoE Key Laboratory for Biomedical Photonics, Collaborative Innovation Center for Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering Sciences, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430074, China; Center for Brain Science, Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance in Biological Systems and State Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance and Atomic and Molecular Physics, Wuhan Institute of Physics and Mathematics, CAS Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences Wuhan, China
| | - Tonghui Xu
- Britton Chance Center for Biomedical Photonics, Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430074, China; MoE Key Laboratory for Biomedical Photonics, Collaborative Innovation Center for Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering Sciences, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430074, China.
| | - Haohong Li
- Britton Chance Center for Biomedical Photonics, Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430074, China; MoE Key Laboratory for Biomedical Photonics, Collaborative Innovation Center for Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering Sciences, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430074, China.
| |
Collapse
|
99
|
A Central Extended Amygdala Circuit That Modulates Anxiety. J Neurosci 2018; 38:5567-5583. [PMID: 29844022 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.0705-18.2018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2018] [Revised: 04/22/2018] [Accepted: 05/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Both the amygdala and the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BNST) have been implicated in maladaptive anxiety characteristics of anxiety disorders. However, the underlying circuit and cellular mechanisms have remained elusive. Here we show that mice with Erbb4 gene deficiency in somatostatin-expressing (SOM+) neurons exhibit heightened anxiety as measured in the elevated plus maze test and the open field test, two assays commonly used to assess anxiety-related behaviors in rodents. Using a combination of electrophysiological, molecular, genetic, and pharmacological techniques, we demonstrate that the abnormal anxiety in the mutant mice is caused by enhanced excitatory synaptic inputs onto SOM+ neurons in the central amygdala (CeA), and the resulting reduction in inhibition onto downstream SOM+ neurons in the BNST. Notably, our results indicate that an increase in dynorphin signaling in SOM+ CeA neurons mediates the paradoxical reduction in inhibition onto SOM+ BNST neurons, and that the consequent enhanced activity of SOM+ BNST neurons is both necessary for and sufficient to drive the elevated anxiety. Finally, we show that the elevated anxiety and the associated synaptic dysfunctions and increased dynorphin signaling in the CeA-BNST circuit of the Erbb4 mutant mice can be recapitulated by stress in wild-type mice. Together, our results unravel previously unknown circuit and cellular processes in the central extended amygdala that can cause maladaptive anxiety.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT The central extended amygdala has been implicated in anxiety-related behaviors, but the underlying mechanisms are unclear. Here we found that somatostatin-expressing neurons in the central amygdala (CeA) controls anxiety through modulation of the stria terminalis, a process that is mediated by an increase in dynorphin signaling in the CeA. Our results reveal circuit and cellular dysfunctions that may account for maladaptive anxiety.
Collapse
|
100
|
Solari N, Sviatkó K, Laszlovszky T, Hegedüs P, Hangya B. Open Source Tools for Temporally Controlled Rodent Behavior Suitable for Electrophysiology and Optogenetic Manipulations. Front Syst Neurosci 2018; 12:18. [PMID: 29867383 PMCID: PMC5962774 DOI: 10.3389/fnsys.2018.00018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2017] [Accepted: 04/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Understanding how the brain controls behavior requires observing and manipulating neural activity in awake behaving animals. Neuronal firing is timed at millisecond precision. Therefore, to decipher temporal coding, it is necessary to monitor and control animal behavior at the same level of temporal accuracy. However, it is technically challenging to deliver sensory stimuli and reinforcers as well as to read the behavioral responses they elicit with millisecond precision. Presently available commercial systems often excel in specific aspects of behavior control, but they do not provide a customizable environment allowing flexible experimental design while maintaining high standards for temporal control necessary for interpreting neuronal activity. Moreover, delay measurements of stimulus and reinforcement delivery are largely unavailable. We combined microcontroller-based behavior control with a sound delivery system for playing complex acoustic stimuli, fast solenoid valves for precisely timed reinforcement delivery and a custom-built sound attenuated chamber using high-end industrial insulation materials. Together this setup provides a physical environment to train head-fixed animals, enables calibrated sound stimuli and precisely timed fluid and air puff presentation as reinforcers. We provide latency measurements for stimulus and reinforcement delivery and an algorithm to perform such measurements on other behavior control systems. Combined with electrophysiology and optogenetic manipulations, the millisecond timing accuracy will help interpret temporally precise neural signals and behavioral changes. Additionally, since software and hardware provided here can be readily customized to achieve a large variety of paradigms, these solutions enable an unusually flexible design of rodent behavioral experiments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Solari
- Lendület Laboratory of Systems Neuroscience, Department of Cellular and Network Neurobiology, Institute of Experimental Medicine, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Katalin Sviatkó
- Lendület Laboratory of Systems Neuroscience, Department of Cellular and Network Neurobiology, Institute of Experimental Medicine, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Budapest, Hungary.,János Szentágothai Doctoral School of Neurosciences, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Tamás Laszlovszky
- Lendület Laboratory of Systems Neuroscience, Department of Cellular and Network Neurobiology, Institute of Experimental Medicine, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Budapest, Hungary.,János Szentágothai Doctoral School of Neurosciences, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Panna Hegedüs
- Lendület Laboratory of Systems Neuroscience, Department of Cellular and Network Neurobiology, Institute of Experimental Medicine, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Balázs Hangya
- Lendület Laboratory of Systems Neuroscience, Department of Cellular and Network Neurobiology, Institute of Experimental Medicine, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Budapest, Hungary
| |
Collapse
|