Novel mechanisms of Anshen Dingzhi prescription against PTSD: Inhibiting DCC to modulate synaptic function and inflammatory responses

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Anshen Dingzhi prescription (ADP), documented in "Yi Xue Xin Wu", is a famous prescription for treating panic-related mental disorders such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). However, the underlying mechanism remains unclear.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study aimed to investigate the mechanisms by which ADP intervened in PTSD-like behaviors.

METHODS

A mouse model of single prolonged stress (SPS) was established to evaluate the ameliorative effects and mechanisms of ADP on PTSD. Behavioral tests were used to assess PTSD-like behaviors in mice; transmission electron microscopy was used to observe changes in the ultrastructure of hippocampal synapses, and western blot, immunofluorescence, and ELISA were used to detect the expression of hippocampal deleted in colorectal cancer (DCC) and downstream Ras-related C3 botulinum toxin substrate 1 (Rac1) - P21-activated kinase 1 (PAK1) signal, as well as levels of synaptic proteins and inflammatory factors. Molecular docking technology simulated the binding of potential brain-penetrating components of ADP to DCC.

RESULTS

SPS induced PTSD-like behaviors in mice and increased expression of hippocampal netrin-1 (NT-1) and DCC on the 14th day post-modeling, with concurrent elevation in serum NT-1 levels. Simultaneously, SPS also decreased p-Rac1 level and increased p-PAK1 level, the down-stream molecules of DCC. Lentiviral overexpression of DCC induced or exacerbated PTSD-like behaviors in control and SPS mice, respectively, whereas neutralization antibody against NT-1 reduced DCC activation and ameliorated PTSD-like behaviors in SPS mice. Interestingly, downstream Rac1-PAK1 signal was altered according to DCC expression. Moreover, DCC overexpression down-regulated N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptor 2A (GluN2A) and postsynaptic density 95 (PSD95), up-regulated NMDA receptor 2B (GluN2B) and increased neuroinflammatory responses. Administration of ADP (36.8 mg/kg) improved PTSD-like behaviors in the SPS mice, suppressed hippocampal DCC, and downstream Rac1-PAK1 signal, upregulated GluN2A and PSD95, downregulated GluN2B, and reduced levels of inflammatory factors NOD-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3), nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB) and interleukin-6 (IL-6). Importantly, DCC overexpression could also reduce the ameliorative effect of ADP on PTSD. Additionally, DCC demonstrated a favorable molecular docking pattern with the potential brain-penetrating components of ADP, further suggesting DCC as a potential target of ADP.

CONCLUSION

Our data indicate that DCC is a key target for the regulation of synaptic function and inflammatory response in the onset of PTSD, and ADP likely reduces DCC to prevent PTSD via modulating downstream Rac1-PAK1 pathway. This study provides a novel mechanism for the onset of PTSD and warrants the clinical application of ADP.

NRICM101 prevents kainic acid-induced seizures in rats by modulating neuroinflammation and the glutamatergic system

Taiwan Chingguan Yihau (NRICM101) is a Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) formula used to treat coronavirus disease 2019; however, its impact on epilepsy has not been revealed. Therefore, the present study evaluated the anti-epileptogenic effect of orally administered NRICM101 on kainic acid (KA)-induced seizures in rats and investigated its possible mechanisms of action. Sprague-Dawley rats were administered NRICM101 (300 mg/kg) by oral gavage for 7 consecutive days before receiving an intraperitoneal injection of KA (15 mg/kg). NRICM101 considerably reduced the seizure behavior and electroencephalographic seizures induced by KA in rats. NRICM101 also significantly decreased the neuronal loss and glutamate increase and increased GLAST, GLT-1, GAD67, GDH and GS levels in the cortex and hippocampus of KA-treated rats. In addition, NRICM101 significantly suppressed astrogliosis (as determined by decreased GFAP expression); neuroinflammatory signaling (as determined by reduced HMGB1, TLR-4, IL-1β, IL-1R, IL-6, p-JAK2, p-STAT3, TNF-α, TNFR1 and p-IκB levels, and increased cytosolic p65-NFκB levels); and necroptosis (as determined by decreased p-RIPK3 and p-MLKL levels) in the cortex and hippocampus of KA-treated rats. The effects of NRICM101 were similar to those of carbamazepine, a well-recognized antiseizure drug. Furthermore, no toxic effects of NRICM101 on the liver and kidney were observed in NRICM101-treated rats. The results indicate that NRICM101 has antiepileptogenic and neuroprotective effects through the suppression of the inflammatory cues (HMGB1/TLR4, Il-1β/IL-1R1, IL-6/p-JAK2/p-STAT3, and TNF-α/TNFR1/NF-κB) and necroptosis signaling pathways (TNF-α/TNFR1/RIP3/MLKL) associated with glutamate level regulation in the brain and is innocuous. Our findings highlight the promising role of NRICM101 in the management of epilepsy.

Ecotoxicity threshold values for 4-hydroxychlorothalonil, carbendazim, dimethoate and methoxyfenozide in fresh and marine waters: Part 1. Derivation of threshold values

Pesticide active ingredients are frequently detected in the rivers, creeks, wetlands, estuaries, and marine waters of the Great Barrier Reef (GBR) region and are one of the main contributors to poor water quality. Pesticide concentrations detected in the environment through water quality monitoring programs can be compared against estimates of ecologically "safe" concentrations (i.e., water quality guidelines) to assess the potential hazard and risk posed to aquatic ecosystems. Water quality guidelines are also required to estimate the aquatic risk posed by pesticide mixtures, which is used for the Reef 2050 Water Quality Improvement Plan pesticide target. Seventy-four pesticide active ingredients and their degradates are frequently detected in GBR catchment waterways, however many do not have water quality guidelines in the Australian and New Zealand Guidelines for Fresh and Marine Water Quality. The current study derives ecotoxicity threshold values (ETVs) as unendorsed guideline values for active ingredients in two fungicides (4-hydroxychlorothalonil (fungicide degradate) and carbendazim) and two insecticides (dimethoate and methoxyfenozide) that are commonly detected in GBR catchment waterways. The proposed ETVs have been derived using species sensitivity distributions, as recommended in the Australian and New Zealand nationally endorsed method for deriving water quality guidelines for aquatic ecosystem protection. Four ETVs were derived for each chemical with values that should theoretically protect 99, 95, 90 and 80 % of species (i.e., PC99, PC95, PC90, PC80, respectively). The PC99 and PC95 values for 4-hydroxychlorothalonil, carbendazim, dimethoate and methoxyfenozide were 0.49 μg/L and 4 μg/L, 0.029 μg/L and 0.45 μg/L, 0.11 μg/L and 5.8 μg/L and 0.19 μg/L and 2 μg/L, respectively. The ETVs will be used in an ecological hazard and risk assessment across GBR waterways in part two of this study. The ETVs can also be used to assess potential risk across Australia and internationally where monitoring data are available.

Correlation between compulsive behaviors and plastic changes in the dendritic spines of the prefrontal cortex and dorsolateral striatum of male rats

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a mental affliction characterized by compulsive behaviors often manifested in intrusive thoughts and repetitive actions. The quinpirole model has been used with rats to replicate compulsive behaviors and study the neurophysiological processes associated with this pathology. Several changes in the dendritic spines of the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) and dorsolateral striatum (DLS) have been related to the occurrence of compulsive behaviors. Dendritic spines regulate excitatory synaptic contacts, and their morphology is associated with various brain pathologies. The present study was designed to correlate the occurrence of compulsive behaviors (generated by administering the drug quinpirole) with the morphology of the different types of dendritic spines in the mPFC and DLS. A total of 18 male rats were used. Half were assigned to the experimental group, the other half to the control group. The former received injections of quinpirole, while the latter rats were injected with physiological saline solution, for 10 days in both cases. After the experimental treatment, the quinpirole rats exhibited all the parameters indicative of compulsive behavior and a significant correlation with the density of stubby and wide neckless spines in both the mPFC and DLS. Dendritic spines from both mPFC and DLS neurons showed plastic changes correlatively with the expression of compulsive behavior induced by quinpirole. Further studies are suggested to evaluate the involvement of glutamatergic neurotransmission in the neurobiology of OCD.

Bridging the gap: Prenatal nutrition, myelination, and schizophrenia etiopathogenesis

Schizophrenia (SZ) is a complex mental illness characterized by disturbances in thinking, emotionality, and behavior, significantly impacting the quality of life for individuals affected and those around them. The etiology of SZ involves intricate interactions between genetic and environmental factors, although the precise mechanisms remain incompletely understood. Genetic predisposition, neurotransmitter dysregulation (particularly involving dopamine and serotonin), and structural brain abnormalities, including impaired prefrontal cortex function, have been implicated in SZ development. However, increasing evidence reveals the role of environmental factors, such as nutrition, during critical periods like pregnancy and lactation. Epidemiological studies suggest that early malnutrition significantly increases the risk of SZ symptoms manifesting in late adolescence, a crucial period coinciding with peak myelination and brain maturation. Prenatal undernutrition may disrupt myelin formation, rendering individuals more susceptible to SZ pathology. This review explores the potential relationship between prenatal undernutrition, myelin alterations, and susceptibility to SZ. By delineating the etiopathogenesis, examining genetic and environmental factors associated with SZ, and reviewing the relationship between SZ and myelination disorders, alongside the impact of malnutrition on myelination, we aim to examine how malnutrition might be linked to SZ by altering myelination processes, which contribute to increasing the understanding of SZ etiology and help identify targets for intervention and management.

Vitexin attenuates neuropathic pain by regulating astrocyte autophagy flux and polarization via the S1P/ S1PR1-PI3K/ Akt axis

Neuropathic pain (NP) is associated with astrocytes activation induced by nerve injury. Reactive astrocytes, strongly induced by central nervous system damage, can be classified into A1 and A2 types. Vitexin, a renowned flavonoid compound, is known for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. However, its role in NP remains unexplored. This study aims to investigate the effects of vitexin on astrocyte polarization and its underlying mechanisms. A mouse model of NP was established, and primary astrocytes were stimulated with sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) to construct a cellular model. The results demonstrated significant activation of spinal astrocytes on days 14 and 21. Concurrently, reactive astrocytes predominantly differentiated into the A1 type. Western blot analysis revealed an increase in A1 astrocyte-associated protein (C3) and a decrease in A2 astrocyte-associated protein (S100A10). Serum S1P levels increased on days 14 and 21, alongside a significant upregulation of Sphingosine-1-phosphate receptor 1 (S1PR1) mRNA expression and elevated expression of chemokines. In vitro, stimulation with S1P inhibited the Phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase and protein kinase B (PI3K/Akt) signaling pathway and autophagy flux, promoting polarization of astrocytes towards the A1 phenotype while suppressing the polarization of A2 astrocytes. Our findings suggest that vitexin, acting on astrocytes but not microglia, attenuates S1P-induced downregulation of PI3K/Akt signaling, restores autophagy flux in astrocytes, regulates A1/A2 astrocyte ratio, and reduces chemokine and S1P secretion, thereby alleviating neuropathic pain caused by nerve injury.

An enantioselective fluorescent probe for detecting arginine and glutamic acids

Amino acids are important chiral compounds in the human body, and are important basic components that make up the human body and play an important role in the human body. Among them, different enantiomers of an amino acid may have different roles, and different types of amino acids can be interconverted. However, the content of D-amino acids is much lower than that of L-amino acids, which is difficult to be detected. At present, many of the potential roles of D-amino acids, such as the conversion of D-amino acids to each other, have not yet been fully revealed. Hence, we synthesized fluorescent probe (R)-5 by condensation of 1,1'-Bi-2-naphthol (BINOL) and 2-(Aminomethyl)pyridine with Schiff base, which can recognize both D-arginine and D-glutamic acid at low concentrations. Meanwhile, (R)-5 can be applied to paper-based sensors for the detection of arginine and glutamate in living cells and for food amino acid detection.

The cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)-contacting raphe nucleus (CsfR) in mice

A unique nucleus, the cerebrospinal fluid-contacting nucleus (CsfR), has been identified in the brain parenchyma. This nucleus features neurons with somas located within the parenchyma and processes extending into the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). This anatomical configuration suggests that the CsfR may serve as a crucial interface between the nervous and body fluid regulatory systems, potentially playing a significant role in overall physiological modulation. Despite its importance, the precise biological significance of the CsfR remains to be fully elucidated. Previous research has characterized the CsfR, providing detailed information on its position, neighboring structures, neuron distribution, and 3D reconstruction in both rats and non-human primates, with stereotaxic coordinates specifically provided for the rat model. Given the relevance of mice as a model organism, especially the C57BL/6J strain, this study aims to explore the existence and morphology of the CsfR in mice. Our findings confirm the presence of the CsfR, consistently located in the ventral gray area of the lower part of the aqueduct and the upper part of the fourth ventricle floor. It is bilaterally symmetrical and heart-shaped in the coronal plane, which differs slightly from the Y-shape observed in coronal sections of rats. This study provides significant references for researchers investigating this specialized nucleus.

Different structural connectivity patterns in the subregions of the thalamus, hippocampus, and cingulate cortex between schizophrenia and psychotic bipolar disorder

OBJECTIVE

Schizophrenia (SCZ) and psychotic bipolar disorder (PBD) are two major psychotic disorders with similar symptoms and tight associations on the psychopathological level, posing a clinical challenge for their differentiation. This study aimed to investigate and compare the structural connectivity patterns of the limbic system between SCZ and PBD, and to identify specific regional disruptions associated with psychiatric symptoms.

METHODS

Using sMRI data from 146 SCZ, 160 PBD, and 145 healthy control (HC) participants, we employed a data-driven approach to segment the hippocampus, thalamus, hypothalamus, amygdala, and cingulate cortex into subregions. We then investigated the structural connectivity patterns between these subregions at the global and nodal levels. Additionally, we assessed psychotic symptoms by utilizing the subscales of the Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale (BPRS) to examine correlations between symptom severity and network metrics between groups.

RESULTS

Patients with SCZ and PBD had decreased global efficiency (Eglob) (SCZ: adjusted P<0.001; PBD: adjusted P = 0.003), local efficiency (Eloc) (SCZ and PBD: adjusted P<0.001), and clustering coefficient (Cp) (SCZ and PBD: adjusted P<0.001), and increased path length (Lp) (SCZ: adjusted P<0.001; PBD: adjusted P = 0.004) compared to HC. Patients with SCZ showed more pronounced decreases in Eglob (adjusted P<0.001), Eloc (adjusted P<0.001), and Cp (adjusted P = 0.029), and increased Lp (adjusted P = 0.024) compared to patients with PBD. The most notable structural disruptions were observed in the hippocampus and thalamus, which correlated with different psychotic symptoms, respectively.

CONCLUSION

This study provides evidence of distinct structural connectivity disruptions in the limbic system of patients with SCZ and PBD. These findings might contribute to our understanding of the neuropathological basis for distinguishing SCZ and PBD.

Hypnotic effect of AR-001 through adenosine A1 receptor

Insomnia is one of the most common sleep disorders, affecting 10-15% of the global population. Because classical remedies used to treat insomnia have various side effects, new therapeutics for insomnia are attracting attention. In the present study, we found that N2-Ethyl-N4-(furan-2-ylmethyl) quinazoline-2,4-diamine (AR-001) has adenosine A1 receptor agonistic activity and exhibits hypnotic efficacy by decreasing sleep onset latency and increasing total sleep time in a pentobarbital-induced sleep model. This hypnotic effect of AR-001 was significantly inhibited by the adenosine A1 receptor antagonist 8-cyclopentyl-1,3-dipropylxanthine (DPCPX). As a result of immunohistochemistry, AR-001 was shown to increase neural activity in the sleep-promoting region, ventrolateral preoptic nucleus (VLPO), and decrease neural activity in the wake-promoting region, basal forebrain (BF), and lateral hypothalamus (LH), and that these effects of AR-001 were significantly inhibited by DPCPX treatment. In addition, AR-001 increased adenosine A1 receptor mRNA levels in the hypothalamus. In conclusion, this study suggests that AR-001 has a hypnotic effect, at least partially, through adenosine A1 receptor and may have therapeutic potential for insomnia.

Impaired olfactory system in metabolic imbalance-related neuropathology

Olfactory dysfunction, influenced by factors such as aging and environmental stress, is linked to various neurological disorders. The olfactory bulb's connections to brain areas like the hypothalamus, piriform cortex, entorhinal cortex, and limbic system make olfactory dysfunction a contributor to a range of neuropathological conditions. Recent research has underscored that olfactory deficits are prevalent in individuals with both metabolic syndrome and dementia. These systemic metabolic alterations correlate with olfactory impairments, potentially affecting brain regions associated with the olfactory bulb. In cases of metabolic syndrome, phenomena such as insulin resistance and disrupted glucose metabolism may result in compromised olfactory function, leading to multiple neurological issues. This review synthesizes key findings on the interplay between metabolic-induced olfactory dysfunction and neuropathology. It emphasizes the critical role of olfactory assessment in diagnosing and managing neurological diseases related to metabolic syndrome.

Circulating microRNAs May Be Predictive of Degenerative Cervical Myelopathy

STUDY DESIGN

Basic Science.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to identify a unique serum profile of circulating miRNAs and inflammatory markers in patients with degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM) compared with healthy controls (HC).

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

Currently, DCM is diagnosed with a combination of history, physical examination, and close correlation to advanced imaging. To date, no serum marker has been identified to be diagnostic of this condition.

METHODS

Whole venous blood was collected from patients with DCM as well as healthy age-matched and gender-matched controls. miRNA was extracted from venous blood, and a screening analysis was initially conducted to identify miRNA dysregulation in DCM patients. RT-qPCR was used to analyze the expression of 2 specific miRNAs based on screening analysis and literature review. Bioinformatics analysis was used to identify gene networks and potential targets of the miRNA. In addition, the serum inflammatory profile of DCM and HC groups was differentiated using a pro-inflammatory panel.

RESULTS

Thirty-six patients were enrolled in the DCM group (36.1% male, 61.5±9.5 y), while 35 patients were enrolled in the HC group (31.4% male, 57.5±8.9 y). Of the 15 total miRNAs differentially expressed between DCM and HC groups, two were selected for further analysis: miR-223-3p (upregulated) and miR-451a (downregulated). Functional gene network analysis revealed the highest-ranking gene network was involved in neurological disease, while the most overexpressed miRNA in this network (miR-233-3p) was noted to have over 100 targets, including CDKN1B and the insulin receptor. Serum cytokine analysis showed significant upregulation of several pro-inflammatory cytokines in the DCM cohort compared with the HC group.

CONCLUSION

DCM patients demonstrated a set of unique circulating miRNAs in addition to a different serum inflammatory profile compared with HC. These miRNAs may potentially serve as targets for future therapeutic intervention or diagnostic/prognostic testing.

First-in-human study to assess the safety, tolerability, and pharmacokinetics of intravenous SHPL-49 following single- and multiple-ascending-dose administration in healthy adults

SHPL-49 is an innovative glycoside derivative that is synthesized by structural modifications of salidroside，demonstrating therapeutic effects on animal models of ischemia in pre-clinical experiments. A phase I, single-center, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, single and multiple dose administration study of SHPL-49 was conducted in healthy Chinese volunteers. In single-ascending-dose (SAD) study, 32 subjects randomized 6:2 to receive SHPL-49 (30 mg, 75 mg, 150 mg, 300 mg) or placebo with 30 minutes infusion. In multiple-ascending-dose (MAD) study, subjects were randomized 6:2 to receive SHPL-49 (75 mg, 150 mg, 300 mg) or placebo with 30 minutes infusion every 8 h for 7 days. Safety evaluations were conducted throughout the studies. Plasma and urine concentrations of SHPL-49 were detected and its metabolites were identified. Pharmacokinetic parameters were calculated using noncompartmental methods. SHPL-49 was generally safe and well-tolerated at single ascending doses (30-300 mg) and multiple ascending doses (75-300 mg). All adverse events were mild and resolved without any intervention. No serious adverse events were reported. In the SAD study, SHPL-49 exhibited dose-proportional plasma pharmacokinetics, with peak plasma concentration (Cmax) ranging from 673.83 to 6275.00 ng/mL, area under the plasma concentration-time curve (AUC0-t) ranging from 338.57 to 3732.67 h·ng/mL, and elimination half-life (t1/2) ranging from 0.49 to 0.67 h. In the MAD, the exposure was also dose-proportional and there was no significant accumulation following multiple dosing. Four metabolites were identified in urine and plasma. SHPL-49 shows a favorable pharmacokinetic, safety, and tolerability profile in healthy Chinese volunteers following a single- and multiple-ascending- dose administration in this study. For future therapeutic investigations, it is recommended to administer SHPL-49 intravenously at 8-hour intervals with a dosage range of 150-300 mg.

Tris(1-chloro-2-propyl) phosphate enhances the adverse effects of biodegradable polylactic acid microplastics on the mussel Mytilus coruscus

Microplastics (MPs) and organophosphate flame retardants (OPFRs) have recently become ubiquitous and cumulative pollutants in the oceans. Since OPFRs are added to or adsorbed onto MPs as additives, it is necessary to study the composite contamination of OPFRs and MPs, with less focus on bio-based PLA. Therefore, this study focused on the ecotoxicity of the biodegradable MP polylactic acid (PLA) (5 μm, irregular fragments, 102 and 106 particles/L), and a representative OPFRs tris(1-chloro-2-propyl) phosphate (TCPP, 0.5 and 50 μg/L) at environmental and high concentrations. The mussel Mytilus coruscus was used as a standardised bioindicator for exposure experiments. The focus was on examining oxidative stress (catalase, CAT, superoxide dismutase, SOD, malondialdehyde, MDA), immune responses acid (phosphatase, ACP, alkaline phosphatase, AKP, lysozyme, LZM), neurotoxicity (acetylcholinesterase, AChE), energy metabolism (lactate dehydrogenase, LDH, succinate dehydrogenase, SDH, hexokinase, HK), and physiological indices (absorption efficiency, AE, excretion rate, ER, respiration rate, RR, condition index, CI) after 14 days exposure. The results of significantly increased oxidative stress and immune responses, and significantly disturbed energy metabolism and physiological activities, together with an integrated biomarker response (IBR) analysis, indicate that bio-based PLA MPs and TCPP could cause adverse effects on mussels. Meanwhile, TCPP interacted significantly with PLA, especially at environmental concentrations, resulting in more severe negative impacts on oxidative and immune stress, and neurotoxicity. The more severe adverse effects at environmental concentrations indicate higher ecological risks of PLA, TCPP and their combination in the real marine environment. Our study presents reliable data on the complex effects of bio-based MP PLA, TCPP and their combination on marine organisms and the environment.

Long-term d-allose administration ameliorates age-related cognitive impairment and loss of bone strength in male mice

Age-related physical and cognitive decline may be ameliorated by consuming functional foods. d-Allose, reported to have multiple health benefits, may temper aging phenotypes, particularly brain function. We investigated whether d-allose supplementation improves cognitive function. A standard battery of behavioral tests was administered to 18-month-old male mice after consuming diet containing 3 % d-allose for 6 months. Following a wire-hanging test, an open-field test, Morris water maze, fear-conditioning, and an analgesia test were sequentially performed. Bone density and strength were assessed afterwards. Possible mechanism(s) under-lying memory changes in hippocampus were also examined with a DNA microarray. d-Allose failed to influence muscle strength, locomotor activity and anxiety, fear memory, or pain sensitivity. However, d-allose improved hippocampus-dependent spatial learning and memory, and it may contribute to increase bone strength. d-Allose also changed the expression of some genes in hippocampus involved in cognitive functions. Long-term d-allose supplementation appears to modestly change aging phenotypes and improve spatial memory.

Novel insight into astrocyte-mediated gliotransmission modulates the synaptic plasticity in major depressive disorder

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a form of glial cell-based synaptic dysfunction disease in which glial cells interact closely with neuronal synapses and perform synaptic information processing. Glial cells, particularly astrocytes, are active components of the brain and are responsible for synaptic activity through the release gliotransmitters. A reduced density of astrocytes and astrocyte dysfunction have both been identified the brains of patients with MDD. Furthermore, gliotransmission, i.e., active information transfer mediated by gliotransmitters between astrocytes and neurons, is thought to be involved in the pathogenesis of MDD. However, the mechanism by which astrocyte-mediated gliotransmission contributes to depression remains unknown. This review therefore summarizes the alterations in astrocytes in MDD, including astrocyte marker, connexin 43 (Cx43) expression, Cx43 gap junctions, and Cx43 hemichannels, and describes the regulatory mechanisms of astrocytes involved in synaptic plasticity. Additionally, we investigate the mechanisms acting of the glutamatergic, gamma-aminobutyric acidergic, and purinergic systems that modulate synaptic function and the antidepressant mechanisms of the related receptor antagonists. Further, we summarize the roles of glutamate, gamma-aminobutyric acid, d-serine, and adenosine triphosphate in depression, providing a basis for the identification of diagnostic and therapeutic targets for MDD.

Microglial-mediated immune mechanisms in autoimmune uveitis: Elucidating pathogenic pathways and targeted therapeutics

This review offers a comprehensive examination of the role of microglia in the pathogenesis of autoimmune uveitis, an inflammatory eye disease with significant potential for vision impairment. Central to our discussion is the dual nature of microglial cells, which act as both protectors and potential perpetrators in the immune surveillance of the retina. We explore the mechanisms of microglial activation, highlighting the key signaling pathways involved, such as NF-κB, JAK/STAT, MAPK, and PI3K/Akt. The review also delves into the genetic and environmental factors influencing microglial behavior, underscoring their complex interaction in disease manifestation. Advanced imaging techniques and emerging biomarkers for microglial activation, pivotal in diagnosing and monitoring the disease, are critically assessed. Additionally, we discuss current and novel therapeutic strategies targeting microglial activity, emphasizing the shift towards more precise and personalized interventions. This article aims to provide a nuanced understanding of microglial dynamics in autoimmune uveitis, offering insights into potential avenues for effective treatment and management.

Electroacupuncture regulates glucose metabolism by inhibiting SGLT1 levels, inhibiting microglial polarization, and alleviating Parkinson's disease

BACKGROUND

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a common central neurodegenerative disease in middle-aged and elderly people. The progressive degeneration and death of dopaminergic neurons leads to insufficient dopamine (DA) neurotransmitters. Acupuncture and moxibustion can alleviate the aging of neurons. Therefore, studying the neuroprotective effects of electroacupuncture (EA) in PD mice is particularly important.

METHODS

Intraperitoneal injection of 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP, 20 mg/kg) was used to establish a PD mouse model, and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) was used to induce microglia polarization. Western blotting, terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick-end labeling (TUNEL), Nissl staining and immunohistochemistry were used to detect neuronal apoptosis and injury, α-syn expression and microglial accumulation in PD mice. In addition, the levels of inflammatory factors were determined using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Flow cytometry was used to detect the Ca2+ content. The fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC) labeling method was used to assess glucose uptake. A reagent kit was used to detect glucose and lactate levels.

RESULTS

MPTP induced the selective loss of DA neurons in the SN of mice, altered Ca2+ homeostasis, and induced an inflammatory response. In addition, maintaining Ca2+ homeostasis depends on the activity of transient receptor potential channel 1 (TRPC1). EA therapy promotes TRPC1 expression, which has a negative regulatory effect on sodium-glucose cotransporter 1 (SGLT1). Under the action of EA, TRPC1 protein expression increased, Ca2+ concentrations increased, and the effect of SGLT1 was inhibited, thereby facilitating glucose metabolism, blocking the activation of the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/protein kinase B (PI3K/AKT) pathway, restraining M1 polarization of microglia, and alleviating the PD process.

CONCLUSION

EA promotes TRPC1/Ca2+ pathway activation, inhibits SGLT1-mediated regulation of glucose metabolism and PI3K/AKT pathway activation, inhibits microglial M1 polarization, and alleviates PD.

Unlocking the possibilities of therapeutic potential of silymarin and silibinin against neurodegenerative Diseases-A mechanistic overview

Silymarin, a bioflavonoid derived from the Silybum marianum plant, was discovered in 1960. It contains C25 and has been extensively used as a therapeutic agent against liver-related diseases caused by alcohol addiction, acute viral hepatitis, and toxins-inducing liver failure. Its efficacy stems from its role as a potent anti-oxidant and scavenger of free radicals, employed through various mechanisms. Additionally, silymarin or silybin possesses immunomodulatory characteristics, impacting immune-enhancing and immune-suppressive functions. Recently, silymarin has been recognized as a potential neuroprotective therapy for various neurological conditions, including Parkinson's and Alzheimer's diseases, along with conditions related to cerebral ischemia. Its hepatoprotective qualities, primarily due to its anti-oxidant and tissue-regenerating properties, are well-established. Silymarin also enhances health by modifying processes such as inflammation, β-amyloid accumulation, cellular estrogenic receptor mediation, and apoptotic machinery. While believed to reduce oxidative stress and support neuroprotective mechanisms, these effects represent just one aspect of the compound's multifaceted protective action. This review article further delves into the possibilities of potential therapeutic advancement of silymarin and silibinin for the management of neurodegenerative disorders via mechanics modules.

tRNA-derived fragments: Unveiling new roles and molecular mechanisms in cancer progression

tRNA-derived fragments (tRFs) are novel small noncoding RNAs (sncRNAs) that range from approximately 14 to 50 nt. They are generated by the cleavage of mature tRNAs or precursor tRNAs (pre-tRNAs) at specific sites. Based on their origin and length, tRFs can be classified into three categories: (1) tRF-1 s; (2) tRF-3 s, tRF-5 s, and internal tRFs (i-tRFs); and (3) tRNA halves. They play important roles in stress response, signal transduction, and gene expression processes. Recent studies have identified differential expression of tRFs in various tumors. Aberrantly expressed tRFs have critical clinical value and show promise as new biomarkers for tumor diagnosis and prognosis and as therapeutic targets. tRFs regulate the malignant progression of tumors via various mechanisms, primarily including modulation of noncoding RNA biogenesis, global chromatin organization, gene expression regulation, modulation of protein translation, regulation of epigenetic modification, and alternative splicing regulation. In conclusion, tRF-mediated regulatory pathways could present new avenues for tumor treatment, and tRFs could serve as promising therapeutic targets for cancer therapy.

Age and sex-dependent gut alterations in mice induced by neonatal immune activation with lipopolysaccharide

Neonatal immune activation (NIA) through exposure to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induces adult behavioral changes in rodents that resemble symptoms of developmental disorders, such as autism spectrum disorder. The neonatal timing of LPS exposure appears to play a crucial role in determining the nature and extent of long-term changes. This study aims to explore whether a 3-day LPS-NIA triggers sex- and age-related changes in gut function, potentially linking LPS-NIA to gastrointestinal dysfunction. Male and female Swiss mice received intraperitoneal injections of LPS or saline on postnatal days (PN) 3, 5, and 7. At PN35 (juvenile) and PN70 (adult), gut inflammation and oxidative stress were evaluated in addition to assessments of working memory, depressive-like symptoms, sociability, and repetitive behavior. Gut examination showed elevated C-X-C motif chemokine receptor 3 (CXCR3) in LPS-NIA mice, while MyD88 and Zonulin expressions were significantly higher only in adult LPS-NIA females. Interleukin (IL)-23 expression increased in juvenile and adult male and juvenile female LPS-NIA mice. Oxidative changes included decreased duodenal reduced glutathione (GSH) in juvenile females and ileal GSH in adult females exposed to LPS-NIA. Regarding behavioral alterations, adult LPS-NIA females exhibited depressive-like behavior. Working memory deficits were observed across all LPS-NIA groups. Only juvenile LPS-NIA females increased grooming, while rearing was higher in adult LPS-NIA mice of both sexes. The findings imply that LPS-NIA impacts intestinal barrier function and causes gut inflammatory alterations that are sex- and age-specific. These findings pave the way for exploring potential mechanisms that could contribute to LPS-induced gastrointestinal disturbances among individuals with ASD.

Longitudinal relationship between weight-adjusted waist index and depressive symptoms in middle-aged and older Chinese adults: A prospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

The association between obesity and depressive symptoms remains controversial. The Weight-adjusted waist index (WWI) shows advantages in assessing central obesity. This study aimed to investigate the longitudinal relationship between WWI and depressive symptoms.

METHOD

This prospective cohort study utilized data from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS) spanning 2011-2020. Depressive symptoms were assessed using the 10-item Center for Epidemiological Studies Depressive Symptoms Scale (CESD-10) scores. Linear mixed models were used to examine longitudinal associations.

RESULTS

A total of 6835 participants over the age of 45 were included. WWI was positively associated with CESD-10 scores (β per 1 SD increase = 0.052SD; 95%CI: 0.021 to 0.083SD) and was linked to a faster increase in CESD-10 scores over time (β = 0.095SD/year; 95%CI: 0.090 to 0.100 SD/year). Conversely, BMI was negatively associated with CESD-10 scores (β per 1 SD increase = -0.067SD; 95%CI: -0.097 to -0.038SD). However, the negative association between BMI and CESD-10 scores weakened over time (β per 1 SD increase = 0.008SD/y; 95%CI: 0.003 to 0.013 SD/y). Nonlinear associations were detected between both WWI and BMI with CESD-10 scores.

LIMITATIONS

Self-reported depressive symptoms assessments may have introduced information bias. The observational design limits ruling out unobserved confounding factors.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings highlight the association between WWI and the long-term progression of depressive symptoms in middle-aged and older adults. WWI may enhance our understanding of the link between obesity and depressive symptoms and could be superior to BMI in predicting depressive symptom progression.

Toxicity and related molecular mechanisms of Sb(III) in the embryos and larvae of zebrafish (Danio rerio)

Antimony (Sb) pollution poses a severe threat to humans and ecosystems due to the extensive use of Sb in various fields. However, little is known about the toxic effects of Sb and its aquatic ecotoxicological mechanism. This study aimed to reveal the toxicity and related molecular mechanisms of trivalent Sb (Sb(III)) in zebrafish embryos/larvae. Sb(III) accumulated in larvae, which correlated with the exposure concentration. Although no significant lethal or teratogenic effects were observed, normal growth and development were affected. Exposure to 10 or 20 mg/L Sb(III) increased the levels of reactive oxygen species in the larvae while enhancing catalase activity and increasing cell apoptosis. Transcriptomic analysis revealed that Sb(III) promoted glutathione metabolism and the ferroptosis pathway. In addition, symptoms associated with ferroptosis, including mitochondrial damage, biochemical levels of related molecules and increased tissue iron content, were detected. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) analyses further confirmed that Sb(III) significantly altered the transcription levels of genes related to the ferroptosis pathway by disrupting iron homeostasis. Furthermore, ferrostatin-1 (Fer-1) mitigated the toxic effects induced by Sb(III) in zebrafish. Our research fills the gap in the literature on the toxicity and mechanism of Sb(III) in aquatic organisms, which is highly important for understanding the ecological risks associated with Sb.

Histidine-containing dipeptide deficiency links to hyperactivity and depression-like behaviors in old female mice

Carnosine, anserine, and homocarnosine are histidine-containing dipeptides (HCDs) abundant in the skeletal muscle and nervous system in mammals. To date, studies have extensively demonstrated effects of carnosine and anserine, the predominant muscular HCDs, on muscular functions and exercise performance. However, homocarnosine, the predominant brain HCD, is underexplored. Moreover, roles of homocarnosine and its related HCDs in the brain and behaviors remain poorly understood. Here, we investigated potential roles of endogenous brain homocarnosine and its related HCDs in behaviors by using carnosine synthase-1-deficient (Carns1-/-) mice. We found that old Carns1-/- mice (female 12 months old) exhibited hyperactivity- and depression-like behaviors with higher plasma corticosterone levels on light-dark transition and forced swimming tests, but had no defects in spontaneous locomotor activity, repetitive behavior, olfactory functions, and learning and memory abilities, as compared with their age-matched wild-type (WT) mice. We confirmed that homocarnosine and its related HCDs were deficient across brain areas of Carns1-/- mice. Homocarnosine deficiency exhibited small effects on its constituent γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain, in which GABA levels in hypothalamus and olfactory bulb were higher in Carns1-/- mice than in WT mice. In WT mice, homocarnosine and GABA were highly present in hypothalamus, thalamus, and olfactory bulb, and their brain levels did not decrease in old mice when compared with younger mice (3 months old). Our present findings provide new insights into roles of homocarnosine and its related HCDs in behaviors and neurological disorders.

Visual stimulation and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) have protective effects in experimental autoimmune uveoretinitis

AIMS

To investigate the therapeutic potential of visual stimulation (VS) and BDNF in murine experimental autoimmune uveoretinitis (EAU).

MAIN METHODS

Mice were immunized by subcutaneous injection of interphotoreceptor retinoid-binding protein in Freund's complete adjuvant and intravenous injection of pertussis toxin, and were then exposed to high-contrast VS 12 h/day (days 1-14 post-immunization). EAU severity was assessed by examining clinical score, visual acuity, inflammatory markers, and immune cells in the retina. The transcriptome of activated retinal cells was determined by RNA-seq using RNA immunoprecipitated in complex with phosphorylated ribosomal protein S6. The retinal levels of protein products of relevant upregulated genes were quantified. The effect of BDNF on EAU was tested in unstimulated mice by its daily topical ocular administration (days 8-14 post-immunization).

KEY FINDINGS

VS attenuated EAU development and decreased the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines/chemokines and numbers of immune cells in the retina (n = 10-20 eyes/group for each analysis). In activated retinal cells of control mice (n = 30 eyes/group), VS upregulated genes encoding immunomodulatory neuropeptides, of which BDNF and vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) also showed increased mRNA and protein levels in the retina of VS-treated EAU mice (n = 6-10 eyes/group for each analysis). In unstimulated EAU mice, BDNF treatment mimicked the protective effects of VS by modulating the inflammatory and stem cell properties of Müller cells (n = 5 eyes/group for each analysis).

SIGNIFICANCE

VS effectively suppresses EAU, at least through enhancing retinal levels of anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective factors, VIP and BDNF. Our findings also suggest BDNF as a promising therapeutic agent for uveitis treatment.

Bio-based microplastic polylactic acid exerts the similar toxic effects to traditional petroleum-based microplastic polystyrene in mussels

Microplastics (MPs) have accumulated in the oceans, causing adverse effects on marine organisms and the environment. Biodegradable polylactic acid (PLA) is considered as an excellent substitute for traditional petroleum-based plastics, but it is difficult to degrade completely and easily become MPs in the marine environment. To test the ecological risk of bio-based PLA, we exposed thick-shelled mussels (Mytilus coruscus) to bio-based PLA and petroleum-based polystyrene (PS) (at 102, 104, and 106 particles/L) for 14 days. The significant increase in enzyme activities related to oxidative stress and immune response showed that mussels were under physiological stress after MP ingestion. While enzyme activities of nerve conduction and energy metabolism were significantly disturbed after exposure. Meanwhile, normal physiological activities in respiration, ingestion and assimilation were also suppressed in association with enzyme changes. The negative effects of PS and PLA in mussels were not differentiated, and further integration analysis of integrated biomarker response (IBR) and principal component analysis (PCA) also showed that PLA would induce adverse effects in mussels and ecological risks as PS, especially at environmental concentrations. Therefore, it is necessary to pay more attention to the environmental and ecological risk of bio-based MP PLA accumulating in the marine environment.

Intrauterine chromium exposure and cognitive developmental delay: The modifying effect of genetic predisposition

There is limited evidence on the effects of intrauterine chromium (Cr) exposure on children's cognitive developmental delay (CDD). Further, little is known about the genetic factors in modifying the association between intrauterine Cr exposure and CDD. The present study involved 2361 mother-child pairs, in which maternal plasma Cr concentrations were assessed, a polygenic risk score for the child was constructed, and the child's cognitive development was evaluated using the Bayley Scales of Infant Development. The risks of CDD conferred by intrauterine Cr exposure in children with different genetic backgrounds were evaluated by logistic regression. The additive interaction between intrauterine Cr exposure and genetic factors was evaluated by calculating the relative excess risk due to interaction (RERI), attributable proportion due to interaction (AP), and synergy index (SI). According to present study, higher intrauterine Cr exposure was significantly associated with increased CDD risk [each unit increase in ln-transformed maternal plasma Cr concentration (ln-Cr): adjusted OR (95 % CI), 1.18 (1.04-1.35); highest vs lowest quartile: adjusted OR (95 % CI), 1.57 (1.10-2.23)]. The dose-response relationship of intrauterine Cr exposure and CDD for children with high genetic risk was more prominent [each unit increased ln-Cr: adjusted OR (95 % CI), 1.36 (1.09-1.70)]. Joint effects between intrauterine Cr exposure and genetic factors were found. Specifically, for high genetic risk carriers, the association between intrauterine Cr exposure and CDD was more evident [highest vs lowest quartile: adjusted OR (95 % CI), 2.33 (1.43-3.80)]. For those children with high intrauterine Cr exposure and high genetic risk, the adjusted AP was 0.39 (95 % CI, 0.07-0.72). Conclusively, intrauterine Cr exposure was a high-risk factor for CDD in children, particularly for those with high genetic risk. Intrauterine Cr exposure and one's adverse genetic background jointly contribute to an increased risk of CDD in children.

Shaping dynamical neural computations using spatiotemporal constraints

Dynamics play a critical role in computation. The principled evolution of states over time enables both biological and artificial networks to represent and integrate information to make decisions. In the past few decades, significant multidisciplinary progress has been made in bridging the gap between how we understand biological versus artificial computation, including how insights gained from one can translate to the other. Research has revealed that neurobiology is a key determinant of brain network architecture, which gives rise to spatiotemporally constrained patterns of activity that underlie computation. Here, we discuss how neural systems use dynamics for computation, and claim that the biological constraints that shape brain networks may be leveraged to improve the implementation of artificial neural networks. To formalize this discussion, we consider a natural artificial analog of the brain that has been used extensively to model neural computation: the recurrent neural network (RNN). In both the brain and the RNN, we emphasize the common computational substrate atop which dynamics occur-the connectivity between neurons-and we explore the unique computational advantages offered by biophysical constraints such as resource efficiency, spatial embedding, and neurodevelopment.

Experimental models of Parkinson's disease: Challenges and Opportunities

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a widespread neurodegenerative disorder occurs due to the degradation of dopaminergic neurons present in the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNpc). Millions of people are affected by this devastating disorder globally, and the frequency of the condition increases with the increase in the elderly population. A significant amount of progress has been made in acquiring more knowledge about the etiology and the pathogenesis of PD over the past decades. Animal models have been regarded to be a vital tool for the exploration of complex molecular mechanisms involved in PD. Various animals used as models for disease monitoring include vertebrates (zebrafish, rats, mice, guinea pigs, rabbits and monkeys) and invertebrate models (Drosophila, Caenorhabditis elegans). The animal models most relevant for study of PD are neurotoxin induction-based models (1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP), 6-Hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) and agricultural pesticides (rotenone, paraquat), pharmacological models (reserpine or haloperidol treated rats), genetic models (α-synuclein, Leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2), DJ-1, PINK-1 and Parkin). Several non-mammalian genetic models such as zebrafish, Drosophila and Caenorhabditis elegance have also gained popularity in recent years due to easy genetic manipulation, presence of genes homologous to human PD, and rapid screening of novel therapeutic molecules. In addition, in vitro models (SH-SY5Y, PC12, Lund human mesencephalic (LUHMES) cells, Human induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC), Neural organoids, organ-on-chip) are also currently in trend providing edge in investigating molecular mechanisms involved in PD as they are derived from PD patients. In this review, we explain the current situation and merits and demerits of the various animal models.

Ozone therapy mitigates parthanatos after ischemic stroke

BACKGROUND

Stroke is a leading cause of death worldwide, with oxidative stress and calcium overload playing significant roles in the pathophysiology of the disease. Ozone, renowned for its potent antioxidant properties, is commonly employed as an adjuvant therapy in clinical settings. Nevertheless, it remains unclear whether ozone therapy on parthanatos in cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury (CIRI). This study aims to investigate the impact of ozone therapy on reducing parthanatos during CIRI and to elucidate the underlying mechanism.

METHODS

Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) was utilized to mimic the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in SH-SY5Y cell reperfusion injury in vitro, and an in vivo ischemic stroke model was established. Ozone saline was introduced for co-culture or intravenously administered to mice. Apoptosis and oxidative stress were assessed using flow cytometry and immunofluorescence. Western blotting was utilized to examine the expression of parthanatos signature proteins. The mechanism by which ozone inhibits parthanatos was elucidated through inhibiting PPARg or Nrf2 activity.

RESULTS

The findings demonstrated that ozone mitigated H2O2-induced parthanatos by either upregulating nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) or activating peroxisome proliferator-activated receptorg (PPARg). Furthermore, through the use of calcium chelators and ROS inhibitors, it was discovered that ROS directly induced parthanatos and facilitated intracellular calcium elevation. Notably, a malignant feedback loop between ROS and calcium was identified, further amplifying the induction of parthanatos. Ozone therapy exhibited its efficacy by increasing PPARg activity or enhancing the Nrf2 translation, thereby inhibiting ROS production induced by H2O2. Concurrently, our study demonstrated that ozone treatment markedly inhibited parthanatos in stroke-afflicted mice. Additionally, ozone therapy demonstrated significant neuroprotective effects on cortical neurons, effectively suppressing parthanatos.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings contribute valuable insights into the potential of ozone therapy as a therapeutic strategy for reducing parthanatos during CIRI, highlighting its impact on key molecular pathways associated with oxidative stress and calcium regulation.

Empathic pain: Underlying neural mechanism

Empathy is usually regarded as the ability to perceive the emotional state of others, which is an altruistic motivation to promote prosocial behavior and thus plays a key role in human life and social development. Empathic pain-the capacity to feel and understand the pain of others-constitutes a significant aspect in the study of empathy behaviors. For an extended duration, investigations into empathic pain have predominantly centered on human neuroimaging studies. Fortunately, recent advancements have witnessed the utilization of animal models in the exploration of the fundamental neural underpinnings of empathic pain. There is substantial evidence implicating multiple brain regions and neural networks in the generation and maintenance of empathic pain. Nevertheless, further elucidation of the neural mechanisms underlying empathic pain is warranted. This review provides a concise overview of prior studies on the neural mechanisms of empathic pain, outlining the pertinent brain regions, neural pathways, synaptic mechanisms, and associated molecules while also delving into future prospects.

Alzheimer's disease and sleep disorders: A bidirectional relationship

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most prevalent dementia, pathologically featuring abnormal accumulation of amyloid-β (Aβ) and hyperphosphorylated tau, while sleep, divided into rapid eye movement sleep (REM) and nonrapid eye movement sleep (NREM), plays a key role in consolidating social and spatial memory. Emerging evidence has revealed that sleep disorders such as circadian disturbances and disruption of neuronal rhythm activity are considered as both candidate risks and consequence of AD, suggesting a bidirectional relationship between sleep and AD. This review will firstly grasp basic knowledge of AD pathogenesis, then highlight macrostructural and microstructural alteration of sleep along with AD progression, explain the interaction between accumulation of Aβ and hyperphosphorylated tau, which are two critical neuropathological processes of AD, as well as neuroinflammation and sleep, and finally introduce several methods of sleep enhancement as strategies to reduce AD-associated neuropathology. Although theories about the bidirectional relationship and relevant therapeutic methods in mice have been well developed in recent years, the knowledge in human is still limited. More studies on how to effectively ameliorate AD pathology in patients by sleep enhancement and what specific roles of sleep play in AD are needed.

Texture-Based Classification of Fetal Growth Restriction From Intrauterine Neurosonographic Image

OBJECTIVE

Fetal growth restriction (FGR) is a condition where fetuses fail to reach their genetic potential for growth, posing a significant health challenge for newborns. The aim of this research was to explore the efficacy of texture-based analysis of neurosonographic images in identifying FGR in fetuses, which may provide a promising tool for early assessment of FGR.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis collected 100 intrauterine neurosonographic images from 50 FGR and 50 gestational age-appropriate fetuses. Using MaZda software, approximately 300 texture features were extracted from occipital white matter (OWM) and cerebellum of intrauterine neurosonographic images, respectively. Then 10 optimal features were separately selected by 3 algorithms, including the Fisher coefficient method, the method of minimizing classification error probability and average correlation coefficients, and the mutual information coefficient method. Further, the 10 statistically most significant features were selected from these sets to form the mixed feature set. After nonlinear discriminant analysis was performed to reduce feature dimensionality, the artificial neural network (ANN) classifier was conducted, respectively.

RESULTS

For OWM and cerebellum, a total of 11 and 14 statistically significant features were selected. When the mixed feature sets of OWM and cerebellum were applied to ANN classifier, classification accuracy were 90.00% (κ = 0.800; P < .001) and 93.00% (κ = 0.860; P < .001), and the receiver operating characteristic curve for identifying FGR showed an area under the curve of 0.82 and 0.87.

CONCLUSIONS

Texture analysis of fetal intrauterine neurosonographic images is a feasible and noninvasive strategy for evaluating FGR fetuses.

Genetic and molecular correlates of cortical thickness alterations in adults with obsessive-compulsive disorder: a transcription-neuroimaging association analysis

BACKGROUND

Although numerous neuroimaging studies have depicted neural alterations in individuals with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), a psychiatric disorder characterized by intrusive cognitions and repetitive behaviors, the molecular mechanisms connecting brain structural changes and gene expression remain poorly understood.

METHODS

This study combined the Allen Human Brain Atlas dataset with neuroimaging data from the Meta-Analysis (ENIGMA) consortium and independent cohorts. Later, partial least squares regression and enrichment analysis were performed to probe the correlation between transcription and cortical thickness variation among adults with OCD.

RESULTS

The cortical map of case-control differences in cortical thickness was spatially correlated with cortical expression of a weighted combination of genes enriched for neurobiologically relevant ontology terms preferentially expressed across different cell types and cortical layers. These genes were specifically expressed in brain tissue, spanning all cortical developmental stages. Protein-protein interaction analysis revealed that these genes coded a network of proteins encompassing various highly interactive hubs.

CONCLUSIONS

The study findings bridge the gap between neural structure and transcriptome data in OCD, fostering an integrative understanding of the potential biological mechanisms.

Neuroprotective impact of glycitin on memory impairment in a pentylenetetrazol-induced chronic epileptic rat model: insights into hippocampal histology, oxidative stress, and inflammation

Epilepsy, characterized by recurrent seizures, often accompanies neurocognitive impairments and is associated with increased oxidative stress and inflammation. This study investigates the possible neuroprotective properties of glycitin, a soy isoflavone, on memory impairment, its impact on oxidative stress responses, and inflammatory gene expression in a chronic epileptic rat model induced by pentylenetetrazol (PTZ). Glycitin was administered at varying doses to evaluate its potential neuroprotective impact on memory, oxidative stress, and inflammation in this model. Behavioural assessments, memory retention and recall capabilities, histopathological examinations, measurements of oxidative stress biomarkers, and molecular assessments were employed for comprehensive evaluation. The results demonstrated that glycitin significantly improved memory impairment and reduced oxidative stress in epileptic rats. Additionally, glycitin treatment decreased the expression of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB), indicating its potential to modulate the inflammatory response associated with epilepsy. These observations underscore the potential of glycitin as a therapeutic candidate for mitigating memory impairments linked to chronic epilepsy due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, offering insights into novel avenues for the development of targeted interventions aimed at preserving cognitive function and ameliorating oxidative damage and inflammation in epileptic conditions.

Pathophysiological dynamics of acute myocardial infarction rats under chronic psychological stress at different time points

There is a lack of in-depth research on the impacts and changes in chronic psychological stress (CPS) on the cardiovascular system after acute myocardial infarction (AMI). This study aims to explore the comorbid mechanism and dynamic evolution of AMI exposed to CPS. 120 Wistar rats were randomly divided into Sham Operation group, Sham Operation + Chronic Unpredictable Mild Stress (CUMS) group, AMI group and AMI + CUMS group, with each group further divided into subgroups at days 7, 14, and 28. The AMI model was created by ligating the left anterior descending coronary artery, and CUMS model was used to induce CPS in rats. Behavioral changes were assessed through open field tests and sucrose preference tests. Cardiac function and structure were evaluated via echocardiography. The serum levels of TNFα, IL-6, NO, ET, CK-MB, cTNT, and ANP were measured using assay kits. Pathological changes in cardiac and brain tissues were observed under an optical microscope. Comparative analysis across different models revealed that CUMS significantly reduced behavioral activities in rats, with an interaction between CUMS and AMI affecting total distance (P < 0.05). Both CUMS and AMI significantly reduced cardiac function indicators, with their interaction effects on LVEF, LVFS, and CO (P < 0.05). AMI significantly altered cardiac structural parameters, particularly on day 28 (P < 0.05); while the impact of CUMS on cardiac structure was not significant, except for a notable reduction in LVAW/s on day 7 in AMI + CUMS group (P < 0.05). AMI caused significant changes in the serum biomarkers, while CUMS only significantly increased cTnT on day 7, ANP, TNFα, and IL-6 on day 14, and CK-MB on day 28, with their interaction effects on the three myocardial injury markers and TNFα (P < 0.05). Comparative analysis across different time points demonstrated that behavioral activity, cardiac function, CK-MB, cTnT, ANP, TNFα, and ET levels decreased significantly over time in the AMI model rats, while the left ventricular mass increased significantly (P < 0.05). Pathologically, compared with stress or AMI alone, the AMI + CUMS group exhibited more severe myocardia cellular degeneration and inflammatory infiltration, causing larger infract areas in myocardial tissue, as well as cell number decreases and morphological changes in hippocampal tissue. AMI with CPS exacerbates myocardial injury through sustained inflammation and endothelial dysfunction, leading to heart-brain pathology manifestations characterized by decreased cardiac function and hippocampal tissue damage.

The mutual influences between working memory and empathy for pain: the role of social distance

Understanding the mechanisms behind the interaction of empathy for pain (EfP) and working memory (WM), particularly how they are influenced by social factors like perceived social distance (SD), is vital for comprehending how humans dynamically adapt to the complexities of social life. However, there is very little known about these mechanisms. Accordingly, we recruited 116 healthy participants to investigate the bidirectional influence and electrophysiological responses between WM and EfP, including the role of SD. Our research results revealed that the interaction between WM load and SD significantly influenced the processing of EfP. Specifically, high WM load and distant SD facilitated early processing of EfP. Conversely, low WM load and close SD promoted late processing of EfP. Furthermore, the interaction between EfP and SD significantly influenced the performance of ongoing WM tasks. Specifically, the kin's pain, compared to kin's nonpain, improved the participant's performance on low-load WM tasks; however, it diminished the participant's performance on tasks with high WM load. Overall, these results provide evidence at both behavioral and neural levels for the mutual influence of WM and EfP during the same temporal process, and SD emerged as a crucial moderating factor during these mutual influences.

Insights to Ang/Tie signaling pathway: another rosy dawn for treating retinal and choroidal vascular diseases

Retinal neurovascular unit (NVU) is a multi-cellular structure that consists of the functional coupling between neural tissue and vascular system. Disrupted NVU will result in the occurrence of retinal and choroidal vascular diseases, which are characterized by the development of neovascularization, increased vascular permeability, and inflammation. This pathological entity mainly includes neovascular age-related macular degeneration (neovascular-AMD), diabetic retinopathy (DR) retinal vein occlusion (RVO), and retinopathy of prematurity (ROP). Emerging evidences suggest that the angopoietin/tyrosine kinase with immunoglobulin and epidermal growth factor homology domains (Ang/Tie) signaling pathway is essential for the development of retinal and choroidal vascular. Tie receptors and their downstream pathways play a key role in modulating the vascular development, vascular stability, remodeling and angiogenesis. Angiopoietin 1 (Ang1) is a natural agonist of Tie2 receptor, which can promote vascular stability. On the other hand, angiopoietin 2 (Ang2) is an antagonist of Tie2 receptor that causes vascular instability. Currently, agents targeting the Ang/Tie signaling pathway have been used to inhibit neovascularization and vascular leakage in neovascular-AMD and DR animal models. Particularly, the AKB-9778 and Faricimab have shown promising efficacy in improving visual acuity in patients with neovascular-AMD and DR. These experimental and clinical evidences suggest that activation of Ang/Tie signaling pathway can inhibit the vascular permeability, neovascularization, thereby maintaining the normal function and structure of NVU. This review seeks to introduce the versatile functions and elucidate the modulatory mechanisms of Ang/Tie signaling pathway. Recent pharmacologic therapies targeting this pathway are also elaborated and summarized. Further translation of these findings may afford a new therapeutic strategy from bench to bedside.

Purkinje cell hyperexcitability and depressive-like behavior in mice lacking erg3 (ether-à-go-go-related gene) K+ channel subunits

Potassium channels stabilize the resting potential and neuronal excitability. Among them, erg (ether-à-go-go-related gene) K+ channels represent a subfamily of voltage-gated channels, consisting of erg1, erg2, and erg3 subunits; however, their subunit-specific neuronal functions in vivo are barely understood. To find erg3- and erg1-mediated functions, we generated global Kcnh7 (erg3) and conditional Kcnh2 (erg1) knockout mice. We found that erg3 channels stabilize the resting potential and dampen spontaneous activity in cerebellar Purkinje cells (PCs) and hippocampal CA1 neurons, whereas erg1 channels have suprathreshold functions. Lack of erg3 subunits induced hyperexcitability with increased action potential firing in PCs, but not in CA1 neurons. Notably, erg3 depletion caused depressive-like behavior with reduced locomotor activity, strongly decreased digging behavior, and shorter latencies to fall off a rotating wheel, while learning and memory remained unchanged. Our data show that erg K+ channels containing erg3 subunits mediate a neuronal subthreshold K+ current that plays important roles in the regulation of locomotor behavior in vivo.

Comprehensive insights into mechanism of nanotoxicity, assessment methods and regulatory challenges of nanomedicines

Nanomedicine has the potential to transform healthcare by offering targeted therapies, precise diagnostics, and enhanced drug delivery systems. The National Institutes of Health has coined the term "nanomedicine" to describe the use of nanotechnology in biological system monitoring, control, diagnosis, and treatment. Nanomedicine continues to receive increasing interest for the rationalized delivery of therapeutics and pharmaceutical agents to achieve the required response while reducing its side effects. However, as nanotechnology continues to advance, concerns about its potential toxicological effects have also grown. This review explores the current state of nanomedicine, focusing on the types of nanoparticles used and their associated properties that contribute to nanotoxicity. It examines the mechanisms through which nanoparticles exert toxicity, encompassing various cellular and molecular interactions. Furthermore, it discusses the assessment methods employed to evaluate nanotoxicity, encompassing in-vitro and in-vivo models, as well as emerging techniques. The review also addresses the regulatory issues surrounding nanotoxicology, highlighting the challenges in developing standardized guidelines and ensuring the secure translation of nanomedicine into clinical settings. It also explores into the challenges and ethical issues associated with nanotoxicology, as understanding the safety profile of nanoparticles is essential for their effective translation into therapeutic applications.

A Framework for Quality Control in Quantitative Proteomics

A thorough evaluation of the quality, reproducibility, and variability of bottom-up proteomics data is necessary at every stage of a workflow, from planning to analysis. We share vignettes applying adaptable quality control (QC) measures to assess sample preparation, system function, and quantitative analysis. System suitability samples are repeatedly measured longitudinally with targeted methods, and we share examples where they are used on three instrument platforms to identify severe system failures and track function over months to years. Internal QCs incorporated at the protein and peptide levels allow our team to assess sample preparation issues and to differentiate system failures from sample-specific issues. External QC samples prepared alongside our experimental samples are used to verify the consistency and quantitative potential of our results during batch correction and normalization before assessing biological phenotypes. We combine these controls with rapid analysis (Skyline), longitudinal QC metrics (AutoQC), and server-based data deposition (PanoramaWeb). We propose that this integrated approach to QC is a useful starting point for groups to facilitate rapid quality control assessment to ensure that valuable instrument time is used to collect the best quality data possible. Data are available on Panorama Public and ProteomeXchange under the identifier PXD051318.

Sex differences in the influence of adult-onset hypothyroidism on hippocampal progenitor survival and neuronal differentiation in mice

The ongoing production of newborn neurons in the adult hippocampus is reported to be sensitive to perturbations of thyroid hormone signaling, in male rats and mice. Here, we examined whether the neurogenic changes evoked by adult-onset hypothyroidism exhibit sex differences, using male and female C57BL/6N mice. We assessed the impact of goitrogen-induced, adult-onset hypothyroidism on the postmitotic survival and differentiation of hippocampal progenitors in male and female mice. Adult-onset hypothyroidism evoked a significant decline in the postmitotic survival and neuronal differentiation of adult-born progenitors within the dentate gyrus hippocampal subfield of male, but not female, mice. We observed a significant decrease in the number of immature neurons within the hippocampi of adult-onset hypothyroid male mice, whereas adult-onset hypothyroidism evoked by goitrogens using the same treatment paradigms did not evoke any change in immature neuron number in female mice. Gene expression analysis within the hippocampi of euthyroid male and female mice revealed sex-dependent, differential expression of thyroid hormone receptor genes, as well as genes linked to thyroid hormone metabolism and transport. Collectively, our findings highlight sex differences in the influence of goitrogen-induced, adult-onset hypothyroidism on hippocampal neurogenesis, with male, but not female, mice exhibiting a decline in postmitotic hippocampal progenitor survival and neuronal differentiation. These findings underscore the importance of sex as a vital variable when considering the impact of thyroid hormone signaling on the adult hippocampal neurogenic niche.

Endogenous histidine peptides are physiological antioxidants that prevent oligodendrocyte cell death and myelin loss in vivo

Histidine dipeptides (HDs) are synthesized in brain oligodendrocytes by carnosine synthase (carns1), but their role is unknown. Using metabolomics and in vivo experiments with both constitutive and oligodendrocyte-selective carns1-KO mouse models, we found that HDs are critical for oligodendrocyte survival and protect against oxidative stress. Carns1-KO mouse models had lower numbers of mature oligodendrocytes, increased lipid peroxidation, and behavioral changes. Cuprizone administration, which increases reactive oxygen species in vivo, resulted in higher oligodendrocyte death, demyelination, axonal alterations, and oxidative damage in the corpus callosum of carns1-KO mice. Gliosis and oxidative damage by cuprizone were prevented by pretreatment with the antioxidant N-acetylcysteine. NADPH levels were increased threefold in the brains of carns1-KO mice as an antioxidant response to oxidative stress through acceleration of the pentose phosphate pathway (PPP). This was due to overexpression of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase, the rate-limiting enzyme of the PPP. Likewise, expression of NAD kinase, the biosynthetic enzyme for NADP+, and NAMPT, which replenishes the NAD+ pool, was higher in carns1-KO mice brains than in controls. Our observations suggest that HDs cell-autonomously protect oligodendrocytes from oxidative stress, with implications for demyelinating diseases.

A circuit from lateral hypothalamic to dorsal hippocampal dentate gyrus modulates behavioral despair in mice

Behavioral despair is one of the clinical manifestations of major depressive disorder and an important cause of disability and death. However, the neural circuit mechanisms underlying behavioral despair are poorly understood. In a well-established chronic behavioral despair (CBD) mouse model, using a combination of viral tracing, in vivo fiber photometry, chemogenetic and optogenetic manipulations, in vitro electrophysiology, pharmacological profiling techniques, and behavioral tests, we investigated the neural circuit mechanisms in regulating behavioral despair. Here, we found that CBD enhanced CaMKIIα neuronal excitability in the dorsal dentate gyrus (dDG) and dDGCaMKIIα neurons involved in regulating behavioral despair in CBD mice. Besides, dDGCaMKIIα neurons received 5-HT inputs from median raphe nucleus (MRN) and were mediated by 5-HT1A receptors, whereas MRN5-HT neurons received CaMKIIα inputs from lateral hypothalamic (LH) and were mediated by AMPA receptors to regulate behavioral despair. Furthermore, fluvoxamine exerted its role in resisting behavioral despair through the LH-MRN-dDG circuit. These findings suggest that a previously unidentified circuit of LHCaMKIIα-MRN5-HT-dDGCaMKIIα mediates behavioral despair induced by CBD. Furthermore, these support the important role of AMPA receptors in MRN and 5-HT1A receptors in dDG that might be the potential targets for treatment of behavioral despair, and explain the neural circuit mechanism of fluvoxamine-resistant behavioral despair.

Persistence of post-stress blood pressure elevation requires activation of astrocytes

The reflexive excitation of the sympathetic nervous system in response to psychological stress leads to elevated blood pressure, a condition that persists even after the stress has been alleviated. This sustained increase in blood pressure, which may contribute to the pathophysiology of hypertension, could be linked to neural plasticity in sympathetic nervous activity. Given the critical role of astrocytes in various forms of neural plasticity, we investigated their involvement in maintaining elevated blood pressure during the post-stress phase. Specifically, we examined the effects of arundic acid, an astrocytic inhibitor, on blood pressure and heart rate responses to air-jet stress. First, we confirmed that the inhibitory effect of arundic acid is specific to astrocytes. Using c-Fos immunohistology, we then observed that psychological stress activates neurons in cardiovascular brain regions, and that this stress-induced neuronal activation was suppressed by arundic acid pre-treatment in rats. By evaluating astrocytic process thickness, we also confirmed that astrocytes in the cardiovascular brain regions were activated by stress, and this activation was blocked by arundic acid pre-treatment. Next, we conducted blood pressure measurements on unanesthetized, unrestrained rats. Air-jet stress elevated blood pressure, which remained high for a significant period during the post-stress phase. However, pre-treatment with arundic acid, which inhibited astrocytic activation, suppressed stress-induced blood pressure elevation both during and after stress. In contrast, arundic acid had no significant impact on heart rate. These findings suggest that both neurons and astrocytes play integral roles in stress-induced blood pressure elevation and its persistence after stress, offering new insights into the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying hypertension.

Analysis of epilepsy-associated variants in HCN3 - Functional implications and clinical observations

OBJECTIVE

This case study investigates the role of hyperpolarization-activated, cyclic nucleotide-gated (HCN) ion channels, which are integral membrane proteins crucial for regulating neuronal excitability. HCN channels are composed of four subunits (HCN1-4), with HCN1, HCN2, and HCN4 previously linked to epilepsy. However, the role of the HCN3 in epileptogenesis remains underexplored.

METHODS

We recruited a cohort of 298 epilepsy patients to screen for genetic variants in the HCN3 (NM_020897.3) using Sanger sequencing. We identified rare variants and conducted functional assays to evaluate their pathogenicity.

RESULTS

We identified three rare heterozygous variants in HCN3: c.1370G > A (R457H), c.1982G > A (R661Q), and c.1982G > A(P630L). In vitro functional analyses demonstrated that these variants affected the expression level of HCN3 protein without altering its membrane localization. Whole-cell voltage-clamp experiments showed that two variants (R457H and R661Q) significantly reduced current density in cells, while P630L has no effect on ion channel current.

SIGNIFICANCE

Our findings suggest that the identified HCN3 genetic variants disrupt HCN ion channel function, highlighting HCN3 as a novel candidate gene involved in epileptic disorders. This expands the genetic landscape of epilepsy and provides new insights into its molecular underpinnings.

PLAIN LANGUAGE SUMMARY

Epilepsy is a brain disease that can be caused by mutations in specific genes. We found three rare variants in HCN3 gene in 298 patients with epilepsy, and two of the three mutations could be pathogenic and cause epilepsy and another one is single-nucleotide polymorphism, which could have no effect and no contribution to the development of epilepsy.

Sex differences in the pleiotropy of hearing difficulty with imaging-derived phenotypes: a brain-wide investigation

Hearing difficulty (HD) is a major health burden in older adults. While ageing-related changes in the peripheral auditory system play an important role, genetic variation associated with brain structure and function could also be involved in HD predisposition. We analysed a large-scale HD genome-wide association study (GWAS; ntotal = 501 825, 56% females) and GWAS data related to 3935 brain imaging-derived phenotypes (IDPs) assessed in up to 33 224 individuals (52% females) using multiple MRI modalities. To investigate HD pleiotropy with brain structure and function, we conducted genetic correlation, latent causal variable, Mendelian randomization and multivariable generalized linear regression analyses. Additionally, we performed local genetic correlation and multi-trait co-localization analyses to identify genomic regions and loci implicated in the pleiotropic mechanisms shared between HD and brain IDPs. We observed a widespread genetic correlation of HD with 120 IDPs in females, 89 in males and 171 in the sex-combined analysis. The latent causal variable analysis showed that some of these genetic correlations could be due to cause-effect relationships. For seven of them, the causal effects were also confirmed by the Mendelian randomization approach: vessel volume→HD in the sex-combined analysis; hippocampus volume→HD, cerebellum grey matter volume→HD, primary visual cortex volume→HD and HD→fluctuation amplitudes of node 46 in resting-state functional MRI dimensionality 100 in females; global mean thickness→HD and HD→mean orientation dispersion index in superior corona radiata in males. The local genetic correlation analysis identified 13 pleiotropic regions between HD and these seven IDPs. We also observed a co-localization signal for the rs13026575 variant between HD, primary visual cortex volume and SPTBN1 transcriptomic regulation in females. Brain structure and function may have a role in the sex differences in HD predisposition via possible cause-effect relationships and shared regulatory mechanisms.

Local calcium chloride infusion after pulsed field ablation enhances acute efficacy of cardiac electroporation

INTRODUCTION

Pulsed field ablation (PFA) has emerged as an innovative therapy for cardiac arrhythmias. Drawing parallels with PFA's application in solid tumors, calcium chloride (CaCl2) as an adjuvant therapy, known as calcium electroporation, may amplify PFA's apoptotic effects. We propose that PFA in the atrium could enhance calcium uptake through PFA-created pores, thereby increasing ablation efficacy even at reduced power levels by exploiting PFA's permeabilization effects.

METHODS

We conducted in vivo ablations on the atria of seven pigs using low PFA power (250 V, 20 μs for 50 pulses at 200 ms intervals). Post-PFA, we randomly administered an infusion of either 200 mg/2 ml CaCl2 (calcium group) or saline (control) directly to the ablation site via the catheter tip. We evaluated reduction in electrogram voltage amplitude, electrocardiography (ECG) parameters, ablation lesion parameters, and histology after PFA.

RESULTS

Nineteen lesions from control and calcium groups were examined. Control lesions showed no voltage decrease post-PFA, whereas calcium-treated lesions exhibited a significant voltage reduction. Gross pathology indicated marked differences in maximum lesion surface diameter, depth, and volume between the lesion groups. Histologically, calcium group lesions were characterized by a more severe acute PFA response with contraction band necrosis, myocytolysis and nuclear pyknosis in adjacent myocardium, in addition to microhemorrhages.

CONCLUSION

Infusing calcium chloride locally after PFA markedly improves the immediate efficacy of electroporation in porcine atria. This study suggests that calcium electroporation could bolster PFA outcomes without higher energy levels, potentially diminishing associated risks. These preliminary findings warrant further research into the long-term efficacy and potential clinical application of calcium electroporation in PFA.

Electroencephalography can Ubiquitously Delineate the Brain Dysfunction of Neurodegenerative Dementia by Both Visual and Automatic Analysis Methods: A Preliminary Study

Introduction: The aim was to examine the differences in electroencephalography (EEG) findings by visual and automated quantitative analyses between Alzheimer's disease (AD) and dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) and Parkinson's disease with dementia (PDD). Methods: EEG data of 20 patients with AD and 24 with DLB/PDD (12 DLB and 12 PDD) were retrospectively analyzed. Based on the awake EEG, the posterior dominant rhythm frequency and proportion of patients who showed intermittent focal and diffuse slow waves (IDS) were visually and automatically compared between the AD and DLB/PDD groups. Results: On visual analysis, patients with DLB/PDD showed a lower PDR frequency than patients with AD. In patients with PDR <8 Hz and occipital slow waves or patients with PDR <8 Hz and IDS, DLB/PDD was highly suspected (PPV 100%) and AD was unlikely (PPV 0%). On automatic analysis, the findings of the PDR were similar to those on visual analysis. Comparisons between visual and automatic analysis showed an overlap in the focal slow wave commonly detected by both methods in 10 of 44 patients, and concordant presence or absence of IDS in 29 of 43 patients. With respect to PDR <8 Hz and the combination of PDR <8 Hz and IDS, PPV and NPV in DLB/PDD and AD were not different between visual and automatic analysis. Conclusions: As the noninvasive, widely available clinical tool of low expense, visual analysis of EEG findings provided highly sufficient information to delineate different brain dysfunction in AD and DLB/PDD, and automatic EEG analysis could support visual analysis especially about PD.

Endogenous pain modulation after sleep restriction in migraine: a blinded crossover study

BACKGROUND

Patients with migraine are vulnerable to insufficient sleep, but the impact of sleep restriction is largely unknown. In addition, the importance of sleep may be different in patients with migraine who mostly have attack onsets during sleep, so called sleep-related migraine, compared to patients with non-sleep-related migraine. In this study we investigate the effect of sleep restriction on endogenous pain modulation in patients with migraine and healthy controls. We also compared the effect of sleep restriction in sleep-related and in non-sleep-related migraine.

METHODS

Measurements were conducted in 39 patients with migraine between attacks and 31 controls, once after habitual sleep and once after two consecutive nights of partial sleep restriction. There were 29 and 10 patients with non-sleep-related and sleep-related migraine respectively. Test stimulus was 2-min tonic noxious heat to the left volar forearm. Temporal summation was calculated as the regression coefficient for rated pain in the late part of this 2-min stimulation. Conditioning stimulus was right hand-immersion in 7 °C water. Conditioned pain modulation was defined as the difference in rated pain with and without the conditioning stimulus and was calculated for temporal summation and mean rated pain for the test stimulus. The effect of sleep restriction on temporal summation and conditioned pain modulation was compared in migraine subjects and controls using two-level models with recordings nested in subjects.

RESULTS

Conditioned pain modulation for temporal summation of heat pain tended to be reduced after sleep restriction in patients with migraine compared to controls (p = 0.060) and, in an exploratory analysis, was reduced more after sleep restriction in sleep-related than in non-sleep-related migraine (p = 0.017). No other differences between groups after sleep restriction were found for temporal summation or conditioned pain modulation.

CONCLUSION

Patients with migraine may have a subtly altered endogenous pain modulation system. Sleep restriction may have an increased pronociceptive effect on this system, suggesting a mechanism for vulnerability to insufficient sleep in migraine. This effect seems to be larger in sleep-related migraine than in non-sleep-related migraine.