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Louçano M, Coelho A, Chambel SS, Prudêncio C, Cruz CD, Tavares I. Noradrenergic Pathways Involved in Micturition in an Animal Model of Hydrocephalus-Implications for Urinary Dysfunction. Biomedicines 2024; 12:215. [PMID: 38255319 PMCID: PMC10813199 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12010215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Hydrocephalus is characterized by enlargement of the cerebral ventricles, accompanied by distortion of the periventricular tissue. Patients with hydrocephalus usually experience urinary impairments. Although the underlying etiology is not fully described, the effects of hydrocephalus in the neuronal network responsible for the control of urination, which involves periventricular areas, including the periaqueductal gray (PAG) and the noradrenergic locus coeruleus (LC). In this study, we aimed to investigate the mechanisms behind urinary dysfunction in rats with kaolin-induced hydrocephalus. For that purpose, we used a validated model of hydrocephalus-the rat injected with kaolin in the cisterna magna-also presents urinary impairments in order to investigate the putative involvement of noradrenergic control from the brain to the spinal cord Onuf's nucleus, a key area in the motor control of micturition. We first evaluated bladder contraction capacity using cystometry. Since our previous characterization of the LC in hydrocephalic animals showed increased levels of noradrenaline, we then evaluated the noradrenergic innervation of the spinal cord's Onuf's nucleus by measuring levels of dopamine β-hydroxylase (DBH). We also evaluated the expression of the c-Fos protooncogene, the most widely used marker of neuronal activation, in the ventrolateral PAG (vlPAG), an area that plays a major role in the control of urination by its indirect control of the LC via pontine micturition center. Hydrocephalic rats showed an increased frequency of bladder contractions and lower minimum pressure. These animals also presented increased DBH levels at the Onuf´s nucleus, along with decreased c-Fos expression in the vlPAG. The present findings suggest that impairments in urinary function during hydrocephalus may be due to alterations in descending noradrenergic modulation. We propose that the effects of hydrocephalus in the decrease of vlPAG neuronal activation lead to a decrease in the control over the LC. The increased availability of noradrenaline production at the LC probably causes an exaggerated micturition reflex due to the increased innervation of the Onuf´s nucleus, accounting for the urinary impairments detected in hydrocephalic animals. The results of the study provide new insights into the neuronal underlying mechanisms of urinary dysfunction in hydrocephalus. Further research is needed to fully evaluate the translational perspectives of the current findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Louçano
- Unit of Experimental Biology, Department of Biomedicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal; (M.L.)
- IBMC-Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- I3S-Institute of Investigation and Innovation in Health, University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Chemical and Biomolecule Sciences, School of Health, Polytechnic of Porto, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal
| | - Ana Coelho
- Unit of Experimental Biology, Department of Biomedicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal; (M.L.)
- IBMC-Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- I3S-Institute of Investigation and Innovation in Health, University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
| | - Sílvia Sousa Chambel
- Unit of Experimental Biology, Department of Biomedicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal; (M.L.)
- IBMC-Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- I3S-Institute of Investigation and Innovation in Health, University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
| | - Cristina Prudêncio
- I3S-Institute of Investigation and Innovation in Health, University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Chemical and Biomolecule Sciences, School of Health, Polytechnic of Porto, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal
- Center for Translational Health and Medical Biotechnology Research (TBIO), Polytechnic of Porto, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal
| | - Célia Duarte Cruz
- Unit of Experimental Biology, Department of Biomedicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal; (M.L.)
- IBMC-Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- I3S-Institute of Investigation and Innovation in Health, University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
| | - Isaura Tavares
- Unit of Experimental Biology, Department of Biomedicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal; (M.L.)
- IBMC-Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- I3S-Institute of Investigation and Innovation in Health, University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
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Szabadi E. Functional Organization of the Sympathetic Pathways Controlling the Pupil: Light-Inhibited and Light-Stimulated Pathways. Front Neurol 2018; 9:1069. [PMID: 30619035 PMCID: PMC6305320 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2018.01069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2018] [Accepted: 11/23/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Pupil dilation is mediated by a sympathetic output acting in opposition to parasympathetically mediated pupil constriction. While light stimulates the parasympathetic output, giving rise to the light reflex, it can both inhibit and stimulate the sympathetic output. Light-inhibited sympathetic pathways originate in retina-receptive neurones of the pretectum and the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN): by attenuating sympathetic activity, they allow unimpeded operation of the light reflex. Light stimulates the noradrenergic and serotonergic pathways. The hub of the noradrenergic pathway is the locus coeruleus (LC) containing both excitatory sympathetic premotor neurones (SympPN) projecting to preganglionic neurones in the spinal cord, and inhibitory parasympathetic premotor neurones (ParaPN) projecting to preganglionic neurones in the Edinger-Westphal nucleus (EWN). SympPN receive inputs from the SCN via the dorsomedial hypothalamus, orexinergic neurones of the latero-posterior hypothalamus, wake- and sleep-promoting neurones of the hypothalamus and brain stem, nociceptive collaterals of the spinothalamic tract, whereas ParaPN receive inputs from the amygdala, sleep/arousal network, nociceptive spinothalamic collaterals. The activity of LC neurones is regulated by inhibitory α2-adrenoceptors. There is a species difference in the function of the preautonomic LC. In diurnal animals, the α2-adrenoceptor agonist clonidine stimulates mainly autoreceptors on SymPN, causing miosis, whereas in nocturnal animals it stimulates postsynaptic α2-arenoceptors in the EWN, causing mydriasis. Noxious stimulation activates SympPN in diurnal animals and ParaPN in nocturnal animals, leading to pupil dilation via sympathoexcitation and parasympathetic inhibition, respectively. These differences may be attributed to increased activity of excitatory LC neurones due to stimulation by light in diurnal animals. This may also underlie the wake-promoting effect of light in diurnal animals, in contrast to its sleep-promoting effect in nocturnal species. The hub of the serotonergic pathway is the dorsal raphe nucleus that is light-sensitive, both directly and indirectly (via an orexinergic input). The light-stimulated pathways mediate a latent mydriatic effect of light on the pupil that can be unmasked by drugs that either inhibit or stimulate SympPN in these pathways. The noradrenergic pathway has widespread connections to neural networks controlling a variety of functions, such as sleep/arousal, pain, and fear/anxiety. Many physiological and psychological variables modulate pupil function via this pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elemer Szabadi
- Developmental Psychiatry, Queen's Medical Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
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Manohar A, Curtis AL, Zderic SA, Valentino RJ. Brainstem network dynamics underlying the encoding of bladder information. eLife 2017; 6. [PMID: 29199948 PMCID: PMC5714501 DOI: 10.7554/elife.29917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2017] [Accepted: 10/22/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Urodynamic status must interact with arousal and attentional processes so that voiding occurs under appropriate conditions. To elucidate the central encoding of this visceral demand, multisite recordings were made within a putative pontine-cortical micturition circuit from the pontine micturition center (PMC), locus coeruleus (LC) and medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) during cystometry in unanesthetized rats. PMC neurons had homogeneous firing patterns, characterized by tonic activity and phasic bursts that were temporally associated with distinct phases of the micturition cycle. LC and cortical activation became synchronized 20-30 s prior to micturition. During this pre-micturition interval, a theta oscillation developed in the LC, the mPFC desynchronized and LC-mPFC coherence increased in the theta frequency range. The temporal offset between the shift in LC-mPFC network activity and micturition may allow time to disengage from ongoing behaviors unrelated to micturition and initiate specific voiding behaviors so that micturition occurs in environmentally and socially appropriate conditions. How do we know when we need to find a bathroom? As the bladder fills up, it sends signals to the brain to say that it needs emptying. But before the brain sends a message back to the bladder muscles telling them to contract to release urine, it first triggers a change in behavior. By increasing our alertness and arousing our senses, the brain ensures that we begin to look for a place where it is safe and appropriate to urinate. Only when we have found such a place will the brain tell the bladder to empty. Previous work has suggested that two brain regions play important roles in this process: the pontine micturition center (PMC) and its neighbor, the locus coeruleus. The PMC is thought to act as an on-off switch. When the bladder reaches a certain level of fullness the PMC activates, which tells the bladder muscles to contract. The locus coeruleus helps animals pay attention to important stimuli by making them more alert and energized whenever such stimuli are present. By recording the activity of neurons in the brains of rats while also measuring the pressure inside their bladders, Manohar et al. show that the PMC and the locus coeruleus work together to coordinate behavior and bladder emptying. Filling the bladder causes neurons in the locus coeruleus to activate in synchronized waves. This helps the locus coeruleus communicate with the brain’s outer layer, the cortex, leading to an increase in sensory alertness and arousal. This all happens before the bladder reaches the threshold fullness that activates the PMC, explaining why behavioral changes occur before urination. Manohar et al. show too that PMC neurons also activate when the rat is not urinating, suggesting that the PMC is more than an on-off switch. Healthy people experience the sensation of needing to empty their bladder well before the bladder is full, but people who do not receive these sensory signals may be unable to tell when they need to take action. This can lead to bedwetting in children and to incontinence in the elderly. Targeting the brain circuit that responds to bladder signals could lead to new treatments for these conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anitha Manohar
- The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, United States
| | - Andre L Curtis
- The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, United States
| | - Stephen A Zderic
- The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, United States
| | - Rita J Valentino
- The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, United States
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Central Network Dynamics Regulating Visceral and Humoral Functions. J Neurosci 2017; 37:10848-10854. [PMID: 29118214 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.1833-17.2017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2017] [Revised: 10/03/2017] [Accepted: 10/08/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The brain processes information from the periphery and regulates visceral and immune activity to maintain internal homeostasis, optimally respond to a dynamic external environment, and integrate these functions with ongoing behavior. In addition to its relevance for survival, this integration underlies pathology as evidenced by diseases exhibiting comorbid visceral and psychiatric symptoms. Advances in neuroanatomical mapping, genetically specific neuronal manipulation, and neural network recording are overcoming the challenges of dissecting complex circuits that underlie this integration and deciphering their function. Here we focus on reciprocal communication between the brain and urological, gastrointestinal, and immune systems. These studies are revealing how autonomic activity becomes integrated into behavior as part of a social strategy, how the brain regulates innate immunity in response to stress, and how drugs impact emotion and gastrointestinal function. These examples highlight the power of the functional organization of circuits at the interface of the brain and periphery.
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Abstract
The central noradrenergic neurone, like the peripheral sympathetic neurone, is characterized by a diffusely arborizing terminal axonal network. The central neurones aggregate in distinct brainstem nuclei, of which the locus coeruleus (LC) is the most prominent. LC neurones project widely to most areas of the neuraxis, where they mediate dual effects: neuronal excitation by α₁-adrenoceptors and inhibition by α₂-adrenoceptors. The LC plays an important role in physiological regulatory networks. In the sleep/arousal network the LC promotes wakefulness, via excitatory projections to the cerebral cortex and other wakefulness-promoting nuclei, and inhibitory projections to sleep-promoting nuclei. The LC, together with other pontine noradrenergic nuclei, modulates autonomic functions by excitatory projections to preganglionic sympathetic, and inhibitory projections to preganglionic parasympathetic neurones. The LC also modulates the acute effects of light on physiological functions ('photomodulation'): stimulation of arousal and sympathetic activity by light via the LC opposes the inhibitory effects of light mediated by the ventrolateral preoptic nucleus on arousal and by the paraventricular nucleus on sympathetic activity. Photostimulation of arousal by light via the LC may enable diurnal animals to function during daytime. LC neurones degenerate early and progressively in Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease, leading to cognitive impairment, depression and sleep disturbance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elemer Szabadi
- Division of Psychiatry, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK.
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Oka T, Yokota S, Tsumori T, Niu JG, Yasui Y. Glutamatergic neurons in the lateral periaqueductal gray innervate neurokinin-1 receptor-expressing neurons in the ventrolateral medulla of the rat. Neurosci Res 2012; 74:106-15. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neures.2012.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2012] [Revised: 07/13/2012] [Accepted: 07/23/2012] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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Bajic D, Van Bockstaele EJ, Proudfit HK. Ultrastructural analysis of rat ventrolateral periaqueductal gray projections to the A5 cell group. Neuroscience 2012; 224:145-59. [PMID: 22917613 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2012.08.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2012] [Revised: 07/05/2012] [Accepted: 08/09/2012] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Stimulation of neurons in the ventrolateral periaqueductal gray (PAG) produces antinociception as well as cardiovascular depressor responses that are mediated in part by pontine noradrenergic neurons. A previous report using light microscopy has described a pathway from neurons in the ventrolateral PAG to noradrenergic neurons in the A5 cell group that may mediate these effects. The present study used anterograde tracing and electron microscopic analysis to provide more definitive evidence that neurons in the ventrolateral PAG form synapses with noradrenergic and non-catecholaminergic A5 neurons in Sasco Sprague-Dawley rats. Deposits of anterograde tracer, biotinylated dextran amine, into the rat ventrolateral PAG labeled a significant number of axons in the region of the rostral subdivision of the A5 cell group, and a relatively lower number in the caudal A5 cell group. Electron microscopic analysis of anterogradely-labeled terminals in both rostral (n=127) and caudal (n=70) regions of the A5 cell group indicated that approximately 10% of these form synapses with noradrenergic dendrites. In rostral sections, about 31% of these were symmetric synapses, 19% were asymmetric synapses, and 50% were membrane appositions without clear synaptic specializations. In caudal sections, about 22% were symmetric synapses, and the remaining 78% were appositions. In both rostral and caudal subdivisions of the A5, nearly 40% of the anterogradely-labeled terminals formed synapses with non-catecholaminergic dendrites, and about 45% formed axoaxonic synapses. These results provide direct evidence for a monosynaptic pathway from neurons in the ventrolateral PAG to noradrenergic and non-catecholaminergic neurons in the A5 cell group. Further studies should evaluate if this established monosynaptic pathway may contribute to the cardiovascular depressor effects or the analgesia produced by the activation of neurons in the ventrolateral PAG.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Bajic
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Illinois at Chicago, 835 S. Wolcott Avenue, Chicago, IL 60612, USA.
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Menuet C, Cazals Y, Gestreau C, Borghgraef P, Gielis L, Dutschmann M, Van Leuven F, Hilaire G. Age-related impairment of ultrasonic vocalization in Tau.P301L mice: possible implication for progressive language disorders. PLoS One 2011; 6:e25770. [PMID: 22022446 PMCID: PMC3192129 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0025770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2011] [Accepted: 09/09/2011] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Tauopathies, including Alzheimer's Disease, are the most frequent neurodegenerative diseases in elderly people and cause various cognitive, behavioural and motor defects, but also progressive language disorders. For communication and social interactions, mice produce ultrasonic vocalization (USV) via expiratory airflow through the larynx. We examined USV of Tau.P301L mice, a mouse model for tauopathy expressing human mutant tau protein and developing cognitive, motor and upper airway defects. Methodology/Principal Findings At age 4–5 months, Tau.P301L mice had normal USV, normal expiratory airflow and no brainstem tauopathy. At age 8–10 months, Tau.P301L mice presented impaired USV, reduced expiratory airflow and severe tauopathy in the periaqueductal gray, Kolliker-Fuse and retroambiguus nuclei. Tauopathy in these nuclei that control upper airway function and vocalization correlates well with the USV impairment of old Tau.P301L mice. Conclusions In a mouse model for tauopathy, we report for the first time an age-related impairment of USV that correlates with tauopathy in midbrain and brainstem areas controlling vocalization. The vocalization disorder of old Tau.P301L mice could be, at least in part, reminiscent of language disorders of elderly suffering tauopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clément Menuet
- Maturation, Plasticity, Physiology and Pathology of Respiration, Unité Mixte de Recherche 6231, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Université de la Méditerranée, Université Paul Cézanne, Marseille, France
| | - Yves Cazals
- Neurovegetative physiology laboratory, Unité Mixte de Recherche 6231, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Université de la Méditerranée, Université Paul Cézanne, Marseille, France
| | - Christian Gestreau
- Maturation, Plasticity, Physiology and Pathology of Respiration, Unité Mixte de Recherche 6231, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Université de la Méditerranée, Université Paul Cézanne, Marseille, France
| | - Peter Borghgraef
- Experimental Genetics Group, Department of Human Genetics, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Lies Gielis
- Experimental Genetics Group, Department of Human Genetics, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Mathias Dutschmann
- Institute of Membrane and Systems Biology, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Fred Van Leuven
- Experimental Genetics Group, Department of Human Genetics, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Gérard Hilaire
- Maturation, Plasticity, Physiology and Pathology of Respiration, Unité Mixte de Recherche 6231, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Université de la Méditerranée, Université Paul Cézanne, Marseille, France
- * E-mail:
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Reyes BAS, Chavkin C, Van Bockstaele EJ. Agonist-induced internalization of κ-opioid receptors in noradrenergic neurons of the rat locus coeruleus. J Chem Neuroanat 2010; 40:301-9. [PMID: 20884346 DOI: 10.1016/j.jchemneu.2010.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2010] [Revised: 09/20/2010] [Accepted: 09/20/2010] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Kappa-opioid receptors (κOR) are positioned to modulate pre- and post-synaptic responses of norepinephrine-containing neurons in the rat locus coeruleus (LC). The ability of an acute systemic injection of a long acting κOR agonist, U50,488, to induce trafficking of κOR was assessed in the LC using immunogold-silver detection in male Sprague-Dawley rats. U50,488 administration shifted immunogold-silver labeling indicative of κOR from primarily plasmalemmal sites to intracellular sites when compared to vehicle-treated subjects. This translocation from the plasma membrane to the cytoplasmic compartment was prevented by pre-treatment with the κOR antagonist, norbinaltorphimine (norBNI). To determine whether agonist stimulation could induce adaptations in the expression of the noradrenergic synthesizing enzyme, dopamine beta hydroxylase (DβH), and κOR expression, Western blot analysis was used to compare expression levels of DβH and κOR following U50,488 administration. Expression levels for DβH and κOR were significantly increased following U50,488 administration when compared to controls. These data indicate that a systemic injection of a κOR agonist stimulates internalization of κORs in noradrenergic neurons and can impact κOR and DβH expression levels in this stress-sensitive brain region.
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MESH Headings
- 3,4-Dichloro-N-methyl-N-(2-(1-pyrrolidinyl)-cyclohexyl)-benzeneacetamide, (trans)-Isomer/administration & dosage
- Animals
- Dopamine beta-Hydroxylase/biosynthesis
- Dopamine beta-Hydroxylase/genetics
- Endocytosis/drug effects
- Endocytosis/physiology
- Enkephalins/biosynthesis
- Enkephalins/genetics
- Locus Coeruleus/drug effects
- Locus Coeruleus/metabolism
- Locus Coeruleus/ultrastructure
- Male
- Microscopy, Immunoelectron
- Neurons/drug effects
- Neurons/metabolism
- Neurons/ultrastructure
- Norepinephrine/physiology
- Protein Precursors/biosynthesis
- Protein Precursors/genetics
- Rats
- Rats, Sprague-Dawley
- Receptors, Opioid, kappa/agonists
- Receptors, Opioid, kappa/metabolism
- Receptors, Opioid, kappa/ultrastructure
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Affiliation(s)
- B A S Reyes
- Department of Neuroscience, Farber Institute for Neurosciences, Thomas Jefferson University, 900 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA.
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10
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Parlato R, Cruz H, Otto C, Murtra P, Parkitna JR, Martin M, Bura SA, Begus-Nahrmann Y, von Bohlen und Halbach O, Maldonado R, Schütz G, Lüscher C. Effects of the cell type-specific ablation of the cAMP-responsive transcription factor in noradrenergic neurons on locus coeruleus firing and withdrawal behavior after chronic exposure to morphine. J Neurochem 2010; 115:563-73. [PMID: 20367754 DOI: 10.1111/j.1471-4159.2010.06709.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Repeated exposure to opiates leads to cellular and molecular changes and behavioral alterations reflecting a state of dependence. In noradrenergic neurons, cyclic AMP (cAMP)-dependent pathways are activated during opiate withdrawal, but their contribution to the activity of locus coeruleus noradrenergic neurons and behavioral manifestations remains controversial. Here, we test whether the cAMP-dependent transcription factors cAMP responsive element binding protein (CREB) and cAMP-responsive element modulator (CREM) in noradrenergic neurons control the cellular markers and the physical signs of morphine withdrawal in mice. Using the Cre/loxP system we ablated the Creb1 gene in noradrenergic neurons. To avoid adaptive effects because of compensatory up-regulation of CREM, we crossed the conditional Creb1 mutant mice with a Crem-/- line. We found that the enhanced expression of tyrosine hydroxylase normally observed during withdrawal was attenuated in CREB/CREM mutants. Moreover, the withdrawal-associated cellular hyperactivity and c-fos expression was blunted. In contrast, naloxone-precipitated withdrawal signs, such as jumping, paw tremor, tremor and mastication were preserved. We conclude by a specific genetic approach that the withdrawal-associated hyperexcitability of noradrenergic neurons depends on CREB/CREM activity in these neurons, but does not mediate several behavioral signs of morphine withdrawal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosanna Parlato
- Department of Molecular Biology of the Cell I, German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, Germany.
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11
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Possible involvement of histamine, dopamine, and noradrenalin in the periaqueductal gray in electroacupuncture pain relief. Brain Res 2009; 1306:62-8. [PMID: 19819232 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2009.09.117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2009] [Revised: 09/14/2009] [Accepted: 09/30/2009] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Acupuncture and electroacupuncture are used in pain relief; however, the mechanism underlying the analgesic effect of acupuncture is unclear. Several lines of evidence propose that the periaqueductal gray (PAG), which is one of the regions that contributes to the endogenous pain inhibitory system, is involved in the analgesic effect of acupuncture, and the region receives several neural projections such as histamine and noradrenalin and contains the dopamine cell bodies. The current study examined the effects of electroacupuncture at Zusanli (ST36) and Shangjuxu (ST37) acupoints, which are used for clinical pain control, on the release of neurotransmitters in the PAG in rats. Histamine and dopamine release was increased after pain stimulus, while the changes were completely abolished by electroacupuncture. Pain stimulus had no effect on noradrenalin release, but electroacupuncture increased its release. These findings indicate that acupuncture at Zusanli and Shangjuxu exerts an antinociceptive effect via the activation of neurons in the PAG and that the histaminergic, dopaminergic, and noradrenalinergic systems in the PAG are related to electroacupuncture-induced pain relief.
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Ablin K, Clauw DJ. From Fibrositis to Functional Somatic Syndromes to a Bell-Shaped Curve of Pain and Sensory Sensitivity: Evolution of a Clinical Construct. Rheum Dis Clin North Am 2009; 35:233-51. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rdc.2009.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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14
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Rosenow JM. Physiology and Pathophysiology of Chronic Pain. Neuromodulation 2009. [DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-374248-3.00022-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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15
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The analgesic effect of N-arachidonoyl-serotonin, a FAAH inhibitor and TRPV1 receptor antagonist, associated with changes in rostral ventromedial medulla and locus coeruleus cell activity in rats. Neuropharmacology 2008; 55:1105-13. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2008.06.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2008] [Revised: 05/28/2008] [Accepted: 06/12/2008] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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16
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Reyes BAS, Drolet G, Van Bockstaele EJ. Dynorphin and stress-related peptides in rat locus coeruleus: contribution of amygdalar efferents. J Comp Neurol 2008; 508:663-75. [PMID: 18381633 PMCID: PMC3277290 DOI: 10.1002/cne.21683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The interaction between the stress axis and endogenous opioid systems has gained substantial attention, because it is increasingly recognized that stress alters individual sensitivity to opiates. One site at which opiates and stress substrates may interact to have global effects on behavior is within the locus coeruleus (LC). We have previously described interactions of several opioid peptides [e.g., proopiomelanocortin, enkephalin (ENK)] with the stress-related peptide corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) in the LC. To examine further the interactions among dynorphin (DYN), ENK, and CRF in the LC, sections were processed for detection of DYN and CRF or DYN and ENK in rat brain. DYN- and CRF-containing axon terminals overlapped noradrenergic dendrites in this region. Dual immunoelectron microscopy showed coexistence of DYN and CRF; 35% of axon terminals containing DYN were also immunoreactive for CRF. In contrast, few axon terminals contained both DYN and ENK. A potential DYN/CRF afferent is the central nucleus of the amygdala (CeA). Dual in situ hybridization showed that, in CeA neurons, 31% of DYN mRNA-positive cells colocalized with CRF mRNA, whereas 53% of CRF mRNA-containing cells colocalized with DYN mRNA. Finally, to determine whether limbic DYN afferents target the LC, the CeA was electrolytically lesioned. Light-level densitometry of DYN labeling in the LC showed a significant decrease in immunoreactivity on the side of the lesion. Taken together, these data indicate that DYN- and CRF-labeled axon terminals, most likely arising from amygdalar sources, are positioned dually to affect LC function, whereas DYN and ENK function in parallel.
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Affiliation(s)
- B A S Reyes
- Department of Neurosurgery, Farber Institute for Neurosciences, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19107, USA.
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Lu J, Nelson LE, Franks N, Maze M, Chamberlin NL, Saper CB. Role of endogenous sleep-wake and analgesic systems in anesthesia. J Comp Neurol 2008; 508:648-62. [PMID: 18383504 PMCID: PMC4924624 DOI: 10.1002/cne.21685] [Citation(s) in RCA: 165] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Classical anesthetics of the gamma-aminobutyric acid type A receptor (GABA(A))-enhancing class (e.g., pentobarbital, chloral hydrate, muscimol, and ethanol) produce analgesia and unconsciousness (sedation). Dissociative anesthetics that antagonize the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor (e.g., ketamine, MK-801, dextromethorphan, and phencyclidine) produce analgesia but do not induce complete loss of consciousness. To understand the mechanisms underlying loss of consciousness and analgesia induced by general anesthetics, we examined the patterns of expression of c-Fos protein in the brain and correlated these with physiological effects of systemically administering GABAergic agents and ketamine at dosages used clinically for anesthesia in rats. We found that GABAergic agents produced predominantly delta activity in the electroencephalogram (EEG) and sedation. In contrast, anesthetic doses of ketamine induced sedation, followed by active arousal behaviors, and produced a faster EEG in the theta range. Consistent with its behavioral effects, ketamine induced Fos expression in cholinergic, monoaminergic, and orexinergic arousal systems and completely suppressed Fos immunoreactivity in the sleep-promoting ventrolateral preoptic nucleus (VLPO). In contrast, GABAergic agents suppressed Fos in the same arousal-promoting systems but increased the number of Fos-immunoreactive neurons in the VLPO compared with waking control animals. All anesthetics tested induced Fos in the spinally projecting noradrenergic A5-7 groups. 6-hydroxydopamine lesions of the A5-7 groups or ibotenic acid lesions of the ventrolateral periaqueductal gray matter (vlPAG) attenuated antinociceptive responses to noxious thermal stimulation (tail-flick test) by both types of anesthetics. We hypothesize that neural substrates of sleep-wake behavior are engaged by low-dose sedative anesthetics and that the mesopontine descending noradrenergic cell groups contribute to the analgesic effects of both NMDA receptor antagonists and GABA(A) receptor-enhancing anesthetics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Lu
- Department of Neurology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA.
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Dynorphin-containing axons directly innervate noradrenergic neurons in the rat nucleus locus coeruleus. Neuroscience 2007; 145:1077-86. [PMID: 17289275 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2006.12.056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2006] [Revised: 12/13/2006] [Accepted: 12/20/2006] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Stress causes increased dynorphin (DYN) expression in limbic brain regions and antagonism of kappa-opioid receptors may offer therapeutic potential for the treatment of depression. A potential site of DYN action relevant to stress and related neuropsychiatric disorders is the locus coeruleus (LC), the primary source of forebrain norepinephrine. Therefore, using immunofluorescence and immunoelectron microscopic analyses, we characterized the cellular substrates for interactions between DYN and tyrosine hydroxylase (TH), a catecholamine synthesizing enzyme in single sections through the rat LC. Light microscopic analysis of DYN immunoreactivity indicated that DYN fibers are distributed within the core and pericoerulear subregions of the LC. Using electron microscopy, immunoperoxidase labeling for DYN was primarily found in axon terminals, although in some cases was diffusely localized to somatodendritic processes. When DYN-containing axons formed synaptic contacts, they typically (89%) exhibited an asymmetric morphology. Almost a third (28%) of the postsynaptic targets of DYN-containing axons contained immunogold labeling for TH. These findings reveal some diversity as to the localization of DYN in the LC within axons that contact both TH and non-TH containing dendrites. However, the present data provide the first ultrastructural evidence that DYN-containing axon terminals directly innervate catecholaminergic LC dendrites. Moreover, DYN axon terminals targeting catecholaminergic LC dendrites via asymmetric synapses are consistent with localization within excitatory type afferents to the LC. Therefore, direct modulation of catacholaminergic LC neurons maybe an important site of action for DYN relevant to stress and stress-related disorders.
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Reyes BAS, Glaser JD, Van Bockstaele EJ. Ultrastructural evidence for co-localization of corticotropin-releasing factor receptor and mu-opioid receptor in the rat nucleus locus coeruleus. Neurosci Lett 2006; 413:216-21. [PMID: 17194545 PMCID: PMC1839951 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2006.11.069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2006] [Revised: 11/29/2006] [Accepted: 11/29/2006] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Previous studies have shown that corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF), an integral mediator of the stress response, and opioids regulate the activity of the locus-coeruleus-norepinephrine (LC-NE) system during stress in a reciprocal manner. Furthermore, repeated opiate exposure sensitizes noradrenergic neurons to CRF. Previous studies have shown that mu-opioid receptors (muORs) are prominently distributed within somatodendritic processes of catecholaminergic neurons in the LC and axon terminals containing opioid peptides and CRF converge within the LC. To further examine cellular sites for interactions between CRF receptor type 1 (CRFr) and muOR, immunofluorescence and electron microscopic analysis of the rat LC was conducted. Triple immunofluorescence showed prominent co-localization of the CRFr and muOR in noradrenergic somata in the LC. Ultrastructural analysis confirmed dual localization of CRFr and muOR in common dendritic processes in the LC. Semi-quantitative analysis showed that of the dendrites exhibiting CRFr immunolabeling, 57% expressed muOR immunoreactivity. These data provide ultrastructural evidence that CRFr and muOR are co-localized in LC neurons, a cellular substrate that may underlie opiate-induced sensitization of brain noradrenergic neurons to CRF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beverly A S Reyes
- Thomas Jefferson University, Department of Neurosurgery, Farber Institute for Neurosciences, Philadelphia, PA 19107, United States.
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Reyes BAS, Valentino RJ, Xu G, Van Bockstaele EJ. Hypothalamic projections to locus coeruleus neurons in rat brain. Eur J Neurosci 2005; 22:93-106. [PMID: 16029199 DOI: 10.1111/j.1460-9568.2005.04197.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 111] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Locus coeruleus (LC) neurons respond to autonomic and visceral stimuli and discharge in parallel with peripheral sympathetic nerves. The present study characterized the synaptic organization of hypothalamic afferents with catecholaminergic neurons in the LC using electron microscopy. Peroxidase labeling of axon terminals that were anterogradely labeled from the paraventricular nucleus (PVN) was combined with gold-silver labeling of tyrosine hydroxylase in the LC. Approximately 19% of the anterogradely labeled axon terminals formed synaptic specializations with tyrosine hydroxylase-immunoreactive dendrites in the LC. Retrograde transport from the LC combined with immunocytochemical detection of enkephalin and corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) suggested that most of the LC-projecting PVN neurons (30%) were CRF immunoreactive and few (2%) were enkephalin immunoreactive. Finally, dual retrograde tracing from the LC and median eminence revealed that PVN neurons that project to the LC are a population distinct from that projecting to the median eminence. The present data suggest that a population of hypothalamic neurons is poised to directly modulate the activity of LC neurons and may integrate autonomic responses in brain by influencing LC neurons. Moreover, PVN neurons that use CRF as a neurohormone are distinct from those that use CRF as a neuromodulator to impact on the LC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beverly A S Reyes
- Department of Neurosurgery, Farber Institute for Neurosciences, Thomas Jefferson University, 900 Walnut Street, Suite 400, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA.
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Anseloni VCZ, Ren K, Dubner R, Ennis M. A brainstem substrate for analgesia elicited by intraoral sucrose. Neuroscience 2005; 133:231-43. [PMID: 15893646 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2005.01.055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2004] [Revised: 01/26/2005] [Accepted: 01/26/2005] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Previous studies demonstrated that nursing or intraoral infusion of certain components of mother's milk (e.g. sugars and fats) produces calming and opiate receptor-dependent analgesia in newborn rats and humans. However, the neural circuitry underlying such analgesia is unknown. The aim of the present study was to specify the central pathways by which taste stimuli engage neural antinociceptive mechanisms. For this purpose, midcollicular transactions were used to investigate the role of the forebrain in analgesia elicited by intraoral infusion of 0.2 M sucrose in neonatal rats. Sucrose-induced analgesia persisted, and was enhanced, following midcollicular transection, indicating that it did not require neural circuits confined to the forebrain. Fos immunohistochemistry was used to identify brainstem neurons activated by a brief (90 s) intraoral infusion of a small volume (90 microl, 0.2M) of sucrose or a salt solution (0.1 M ammonium chloride) in 10-day-old rat pups. Compared with control groups (intact, cannula, distilled water), both sucrose and ammonium chloride induced Fos expression in the rostral nucleus tractus solitarius, the first relay in the ascending gustatory pathway. Sucrose also elicited Fos expression in several brainstem areas associated with centrally mediated analgesia, including the periaqueductal gray and the nucleus raphe magnus. Taken together, these findings demonstrate that analgesia elicited by intraoral sucrose does not require involvement of the forebrain. Intraoral sucrose activates neurons in the periaqueductal gray and nucleus raphe magnus, two key brainstem sites critically involved in descending pain modulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- V C Z Anseloni
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
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Abstract
Although much has been accomplished in the past several decades, treatment of chronic pain remains imperfect. This article presents the anatomy and physiology of the pain system along with the neurobiologic changes that occur in the establishment and maintenance of chronic pain states.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua M Rosenow
- Section of Functional and Stereotactic Neurosurgery, S31, Department of Neurosurgery, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA.
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Proudfit HK. The challenge of defining brainstem pain modulation circuits. THE JOURNAL OF PAIN 2002; 3:350-4; discussion 358-9. [PMID: 14622736 DOI: 10.1054/jpai.2002.127777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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Van Bockstaele EJ, Bajic D, Proudfit H, Valentino RJ. Topographic architecture of stress-related pathways targeting the noradrenergic locus coeruleus. Physiol Behav 2001; 73:273-83. [PMID: 11438352 DOI: 10.1016/s0031-9384(01)00448-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 135] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Peripheral sympathetic nerves and brainstem noradrenergic neurons of the locus coeruleus (LC) respond in parallel to a variety of stress-related stimuli which results in norepinephrine release both peripherally and centrally. Elucidation of central pathways subserving modulation of LC neurons point to extranuclear noradrenergic dendrites of LC somata that extend into peri-coerulear areas as a major target of afferents that participate in behavioral and physiological responses to stress. Anterograde tract tracing combined with immunoelectron microscopic detection of the catecholamine synthesizing enzyme tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) has demonstrated that the nucleus of the solitary tract (NTS) and the ventrolateral aspect of the periaqueductal gray (PAG), regions that participate in coordinating autonomic and motor behavior in response to stress, preferentially target the rostral ventromedial aspect of the peri-LC. In contrast, limbic forebrain afferents including the central nucleus of the amygdala (CNA) and the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BNST), regions that coordinate emotional responses to external stressors, provide direct synaptic input to noradrenergic dendrites that extend into rostral dorsolateral peri-coerulear areas. Neurochemical identification of transmitter systems impinging on LC indicate that the CNA provides corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF), a peptide essential for integrated physiological responses to stress, to the dorsolateral LC. Endogenous opioid peptides that originate from medullary sources, however, target primarily the "core" of the LC. Our physiological data suggest that stress engages CRF and opioid afferents to the LC, which have opposing influences on this noradrenergic system. The balance between opioid and CRF influences acting in the LC may, in part, maintain the balance of active and passive coping behaviors in response to stress. Understanding the afferent and neurochemical organization of the LC may help elucidate adaptations in neural circuits associated with stress which impact on central noradrenergic function.
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Affiliation(s)
- E J Van Bockstaele
- Department of Pathology, Anatomy and Cell Biology, Suite 520, Thomas Jefferson University, 1020 Locust Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA.
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