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Merighi A. Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor, Nociception, and Pain. Biomolecules 2024; 14:539. [PMID: 38785946 PMCID: PMC11118093 DOI: 10.3390/biom14050539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2024] [Revised: 04/26/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
This article examines the involvement of the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in the control of nociception and pain. BDNF, a neurotrophin known for its essential role in neuronal survival and plasticity, has garnered significant attention for its potential implications as a modulator of synaptic transmission. This comprehensive review aims to provide insights into the multifaceted interactions between BDNF and pain pathways, encompassing both physiological and pathological pain conditions. I delve into the molecular mechanisms underlying BDNF's involvement in pain processing and discuss potential therapeutic applications of BDNF and its mimetics in managing pain. Furthermore, I highlight recent advancements and challenges in translating BDNF-related research into clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adalberto Merighi
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, 10095 Turin, Italy
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2
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Llansola M, Arenas YM, Sancho-Alonso M, Mincheva G, Palomares-Rodriguez A, Doverskog M, Izquierdo-Altarejos P, Felipo V. Neuroinflammation alters GABAergic neurotransmission in hyperammonemia and hepatic encephalopathy, leading to motor incoordination. Mechanisms and therapeutic implications. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1358323. [PMID: 38560359 PMCID: PMC10978603 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1358323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Enhanced GABAergic neurotransmission contributes to impairment of motor coordination and gait and of cognitive function in different pathologies, including hyperammonemia and hepatic encephalopathy. Neuroinflammation is a main contributor to enhancement of GABAergic neurotransmission through increased activation of different pathways. For example, enhanced activation of the TNFα-TNFR1-NF-κB-glutaminase-GAT3 pathway and the TNFα-TNFR1-S1PR2-CCL2-BDNF-TrkB pathway in cerebellum of hyperammonemic rats enhances GABAergic neurotransmission. This is mediated by mechanisms affecting GABA synthesizing enzymes GAD67 and GAD65, total and extracellular GABA levels, membrane expression of GABAA receptor subunits, of GABA transporters GAT1 and GAT three and of chloride co-transporters. Reducing neuroinflammation reverses these changes, normalizes GABAergic neurotransmission and restores motor coordination. There is an interplay between GABAergic neurotransmission and neuroinflammation, which modulate each other and altogether modulate motor coordination and cognitive function. In this way, neuroinflammation may be also reduced by reducing GABAergic neurotransmission, which may also improve cognitive and motor function in pathologies associated to neuroinflammation and enhanced GABAergic neurotransmission such as hyperammonemia, hepatic encephalopathy or Parkinson's disease. This provides therapeutic targets that may be modulated to improve cognitive and motor function and other alterations such as fatigue in a wide range of pathologies. As a proof of concept it has been shown that antagonists of GABAA receptors such as bicuculline reduces neuroinflammation and improves cognitive and motor function impairment in rat models of hyperammonemia and hepatic encephalopathy. Antagonists of GABAA receptors are not ideal therapeutic tools because they can induce secondary effects. As a more effective treatment to reduce GABAergic neurotransmission new compounds modulating it by other mechanisms are being developed. Golexanolone reduces GABAergic neurotransmission by reducing the potentiation of GABAA receptor activation by neurosteroids such as allopregnanolone. Golexanolone reduces neuroinflammation and GABAergic neurotransmission in animal models of hyperammonemia, hepatic encephalopathy and cholestasis and this is associated with improvement of fatigue, cognitive impairment and motor incoordination. This type of compounds may be useful therapeutic tools to improve cognitive and motor function in different pathologies associated with neuroinflammation and increased GABAergic neurotransmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Llansola
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, Centro de Investigación Príncipe Felipe, Valencia, Spain
| | - Yaiza M. Arenas
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, Centro de Investigación Príncipe Felipe, Valencia, Spain
| | - María Sancho-Alonso
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, Centro de Investigación Príncipe Felipe, Valencia, Spain
| | - Gergana Mincheva
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, Centro de Investigación Príncipe Felipe, Valencia, Spain
| | | | | | | | - Vicente Felipo
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, Centro de Investigación Príncipe Felipe, Valencia, Spain
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3
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Chen X, Tang SJ. Neural Circuitry Polarization in the Spinal Dorsal Horn (SDH): A Novel Form of Dysregulated Circuitry Plasticity during Pain Pathogenesis. Cells 2024; 13:398. [PMID: 38474361 PMCID: PMC10930392 DOI: 10.3390/cells13050398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2024] [Revised: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Pathological pain emerges from nociceptive system dysfunction, resulting in heightened pain circuit activity. Various forms of circuitry plasticity, such as central sensitization, synaptic plasticity, homeostatic plasticity, and excitation/inhibition balance, contribute to the malfunction of neural circuits during pain pathogenesis. Recently, a new form of plasticity in the spinal dorsal horn (SDH), named neural circuit polarization (NCP), was discovered in pain models induced by HIV-1 gp120 and chronic morphine administration. NCP manifests as an increase in excitatory postsynaptic currents (EPSCs) in excitatory neurons and a decrease in EPSCs in inhibitory neurons, presumably facilitating hyperactivation of pain circuits. The expression of NCP is associated with astrogliosis. Ablation of reactive astrocytes or suppression of astrogliosis blocks NCP and, concomitantly, the development of gp120- or morphine-induced pain. In this review, we aim to compare and integrate NCP with other forms of plasticity in pain circuits to improve the understanding of the pathogenic contribution of NCP and its cooperation with other forms of circuitry plasticity during the development of pathological pain.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Shao-Jun Tang
- Stony Brook University Pain and Anesthesia Research Center (SPARC), Department of Anesthesiology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11794, USA;
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Gheorghe RO, Grosu AV, Magercu M, Ghenghea MS, Zbarcea CE, Tanase A, Negres S, Filippi A, Chiritoiu G, Gherghiceanu M, Dinescu S, Gaina G, Sapunar D, Ristoiu V. Switching Rat Resident Macrophages from M1 to M2 Phenotype by Iba1 Silencing Has Analgesic Effects in SNL-Induced Neuropathic Pain. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:15831. [PMID: 37958812 PMCID: PMC10648812 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242115831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2023] [Revised: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Resident macrophages from dorsal root ganglia are important for the development of traumatic-induced neuropathic pain. In the first 5-7 days after a traumatic sciatic nerve injury (i.e., spinal nerve ligation (SNL), spared nerve injury (SNI), sciatic nerve transection or sciatic nerve ligation and transection), Ionized binding adapter protein 1 (Iba1) (+) resident macrophages cluster around dorsal root ganglia neurons, possibly contributing to nerve injury-induced hypersensitivity. Since infiltrating macrophages gradually recruited to the lesion site peak at about 7 days, the first few days post-lesion offer a window of opportunity when the contribution of Iba1 (+) resident macrophages to neuropathic pain pathogenesis could be investigated. Iba1 is an actin cross-linking cytoskeleton protein, specifically located only in macrophages and microglia. In this study, we explored the contribution of rat Iba1 (+) macrophages in SNL-induced neuropathic pain by using intra-ganglionic injections of naked Iba1-siRNA, delivered at the time the lesion occurred. The results show that 5 days after Iba1 silencing, Iba1 (+) resident macrophages are switched from an M1 (pro-inflammatory) phenotype to an M2 (anti-inflammatory) phenotype, which was confirmed by a significant decrease of M1 markers (CD32 and CD86), a significant increase of M2 markers (CD163 and Arginase-1), a reduced secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, TNF-α and IL-1β) and an increased release of pro-regenerative factors (BDNF, NGF and NT-3) which initiated the regrowth of adult DRG neurites and reduced SNL-induced neuropathic pain. Our data show for the first time, that it is possible to induce macrophages towards an anti-inflammatory phenotype by interacting with their cytoskeleton.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roxana-Olimpia Gheorghe
- Department of Anatomy, Animal Physiology and Biophysics, Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, 91-95 Splaiul Independentei, District 5, 050095 Bucharest, Romania; (R.-O.G.)
| | - Andreea Violeta Grosu
- Department of Anatomy, Animal Physiology and Biophysics, Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, 91-95 Splaiul Independentei, District 5, 050095 Bucharest, Romania; (R.-O.G.)
| | - Melania Magercu
- Department of Anatomy, Animal Physiology and Biophysics, Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, 91-95 Splaiul Independentei, District 5, 050095 Bucharest, Romania; (R.-O.G.)
| | - Mihail-Sebastian Ghenghea
- Department of Anatomy, Animal Physiology and Biophysics, Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, 91-95 Splaiul Independentei, District 5, 050095 Bucharest, Romania; (R.-O.G.)
| | - Cristina Elena Zbarcea
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Carol Davila”, 6 Traian Vuia Street, District 2, 02095 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Alexandra Tanase
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Carol Davila”, 6 Traian Vuia Street, District 2, 02095 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Simona Negres
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Carol Davila”, 6 Traian Vuia Street, District 2, 02095 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Alexandru Filippi
- Department of Biophysics, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Carol Davila”, 8 Eroilor Sanitari Blvd., 050474 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Gabriela Chiritoiu
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology, Institute of Biochemistry, Romanian Academy, 2996 Splaiul Independentei 296, District 6, 060031 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Mihaela Gherghiceanu
- Ultrastructural Pathology and Bioimaging Laboratory, Victor Babeș National Institute of Pathology Bucharest, 99-101 Splaiul Independentei, District 5, 050096 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Sorina Dinescu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Bucharest, 91-95 Splaiul Independentei, District 5, 050095 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Gisela Gaina
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Bucharest, 91-95 Splaiul Independentei, District 5, 050095 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Damir Sapunar
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, University of Split School of Medicine, Šoltanska 2, 21000 Split, Croatia
| | - Violeta Ristoiu
- Department of Anatomy, Animal Physiology and Biophysics, Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, 91-95 Splaiul Independentei, District 5, 050095 Bucharest, Romania; (R.-O.G.)
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5
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Zancanaro M, Stein DJ, Lopes BC, de Souza A, Ströher Toledo R, de Souza AH, Oliveira SM, Visioli F, Sanches PRS, Fregni F, Caumo W, Torres ILS. Preemptive transcranial direct current stimulation induces analgesia, prevents chronic inflammation and fibrosis, and promotes tissue repair in a rat model of postoperative pain. Neurosci Lett 2023; 813:137407. [PMID: 37499743 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2023.137407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2023] [Revised: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
This study evaluated the effects of previous exposure to Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) on nociceptive, neuroinflammatory, and neurochemical parameters, in rats subjected to an incisional pain model. Forty adult male Wistar rats (60 days old; weighing ∼ 250 g) were divided into five groups: 1. control (C); 2. drugs (D); 3. surgery (S); 4. surgery + sham-tDCS (SsT) and 5. surgery + tDCS (ST). Bimodal tDCS (0.5 mA) was applied for 20 min/day/8 days before the incisional model. Mechanical allodynia (von Frey) was evaluated at different time points after surgery. Cytokines and BDNF levels were evaluated in the cerebral cortex, hippocampus, brainstem, and spinal cord. Histology and activity of myeloperoxidase (MPO) and N-acetyl-β-D-glucosaminidase (NAGase) were evaluated in the surgical lesion sites in the right hind paw. The results demonstrate that the surgery procedure increased BDNF and IL-6 levels in the spinal cord levels in the hippocampus, and decreased IL-1β and IL-6 levels in the cerebral cortex, IL-6 levels in the hippocampus, and IL-10 levels in the brainstem and hippocampus. In addition, preemptive tDCS was effective in controlling postoperative pain, increasing BDNF, IL-6, and IL-10 levels in the spinal cord and brainstem, increasing IL-1β in the spinal cord, and decreasing IL-6 levels in the cerebral cortex and hippocampus, IL-1β and IL-10 levels in the hippocampus. Preemptive tDCS also contributes to tissue repair, preventing chronic inflammation, and consequent fibrosis. Thus, these findings imply that preemptive methods for postoperative pain management should be considered an interesting pain management strategy, and may contribute to the development of clinical applications for tDCS in surgical situations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mayra Zancanaro
- Laboratório de Farmacologia da Dor e Neuromodulação: Investigações Pré-Clínicas - Centro de Pesquisa Experimental, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, RS, 90035-003, Brazil; Programa de Pós-Graduação em Medicina: Ciências Médicas, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, 90035-003, Brazil
| | - Dirson J Stein
- Laboratório de Farmacologia da Dor e Neuromodulação: Investigações Pré-Clínicas - Centro de Pesquisa Experimental, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, RS, 90035-003, Brazil; Programa de Pós-Graduação em Medicina: Ciências Médicas, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, 90035-003, Brazil
| | - Bettega C Lopes
- Laboratório de Farmacologia da Dor e Neuromodulação: Investigações Pré-Clínicas - Centro de Pesquisa Experimental, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, RS, 90035-003, Brazil
| | - Andressa de Souza
- Laboratório de Farmacologia da Dor e Neuromodulação: Investigações Pré-Clínicas - Centro de Pesquisa Experimental, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, RS, 90035-003, Brazil
| | - Roberta Ströher Toledo
- Laboratório de Farmacologia da Dor e Neuromodulação: Investigações Pré-Clínicas - Centro de Pesquisa Experimental, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, RS, 90035-003, Brazil
| | - Alessandra H de Souza
- Laboratório de Farmacologia da Dor e Neuromodulação: Investigações Pré-Clínicas - Centro de Pesquisa Experimental, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, RS, 90035-003, Brazil
| | - Sara M Oliveira
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Biológicas: Bioquímica Toxicológica, Centro de Ciências Naturais e Exatas, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, Santa Maria, RS, Brazil
| | - Fernanda Visioli
- Departamento de Odontologia Conservadora, Faculdade de Odontologia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande Do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, RS, 90035-003, Brazil
| | | | - Felipe Fregni
- Laboratory of Neuromodulation, Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital and Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard University, Boston, United States
| | - Wolnei Caumo
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Medicina: Ciências Médicas, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, 90035-003, Brazil
| | - Iraci L S Torres
- Laboratório de Farmacologia da Dor e Neuromodulação: Investigações Pré-Clínicas - Centro de Pesquisa Experimental, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, RS, 90035-003, Brazil; Programa de Pós-Graduação em Medicina: Ciências Médicas, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, 90035-003, Brazil.
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Borkowska P, Morys J, Zielinska A, Kowalski J. Effects of the Co-Overexpression of the BCL and BDNF Genes on the Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid-Ergic Differentiation of Wharton's-Jelly-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells. Biomedicines 2023; 11:1751. [PMID: 37371846 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11061751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2023] [Revised: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
One of the problems with using MSCs (mesenchymal stem cells) to treat different neurodegenerative diseases of the central nervous system is their low ability to spontaneously differentiate into functional neurons. The aim of this study was to investigate how the co-overexpression of the BCL and BDNF genes affects the ability of genetically modified MSCs to differentiate into GABA-ergic neurons. A co-overexpression of two genes was performed, one of which, BCL, was supposed to increase the resistance of the cells to the toxic agents in the brain environment. The second one, BDNF, was supposed to direct the cells onto the neuronal differentiation pathway. As a result, the co-overexpression of both BCL2 + BDNF and BCLXL + BDNF caused an increase in the MAP2 gene expression level (a marker of the neuronal pathway) and the SYP gene that is associated with synaptogenesis. In both cases, approximately 18% of the genetically modified and then differentiated cells exhibited the presence of the GAD protein, which is characteristic of GABA-ergic neurons. Despite the presence of GAD, after both modifications, only the BCL2 and BDNF co-overexpression correlated with the ability of the modified cells to release gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) after depolarization. Our study identified a novel model of genetically engineered MSCs that can be used as a tool to deliver the antiapoptotic proteins (BCL) and neurotrophic factor (BDNF) directly into the brain microenvironment. Additionally, in the investigated model, the genetically modified MSCs could easily differentiate into functional GABA-ergic neurons and, moreover, due to the secreted BCL and BDNF, promote endogenous neuronal growth and encourage synaptic connections between neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paulina Borkowska
- Department of Medical Genetics, Medical University of Silesia, 41-200 Sosnowiec, Poland
| | - Julia Morys
- Department of Medical Genetics, Medical University of Silesia, 41-200 Sosnowiec, Poland
| | - Aleksandra Zielinska
- Department of Medical Genetics, Medical University of Silesia, 41-200 Sosnowiec, Poland
| | - Jan Kowalski
- Department of Medical Genetics, Medical University of Silesia, 41-200 Sosnowiec, Poland
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Girard BM, Campbell SE, Vizzard MA. Stress-induced symptom exacerbation: Stress increases voiding frequency, somatic sensitivity, and urinary bladder NGF and BDNF expression in mice with subthreshold cyclophosphamide (CYP). FRONTIERS IN UROLOGY 2023; 3:1079790. [PMID: 37811396 PMCID: PMC10558155 DOI: 10.3389/fruro.2023.1079790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/10/2023]
Abstract
Symptom exacerbation due to stress is prevalent in many disease states, including functional disorders of the urinary bladder (e.g., overactive bladder (OAB), interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome (IC/BPS)); however, the mechanisms underlying the effects of stress on micturition reflex function are unclear. In this study we designed and evaluated a stress-induced symptom exacerbation (SISE) mouse model that demonstrates increased urinary frequency and somatic (pelvic and hindpaw) sensitivity. Cyclophosphamide (CYP) (35 mg/kg; i.p., every 48 hours for a total of 4 doses) or 7 days of repeated variate stress (RVS) did not alter urinary bladder function or somatic sensitivity; however, both CYP alone and RVS alone significantly (p ≤ 0.01) decreased weight gain and increased serum corticosterone. CYP treatment when combined with RVS for 7 days (CYP+RVS) significantly (p ≤ 0.01) increased serum corticosterone, urinary frequency and somatic sensitivity and decreased weight gain. CYP+RVS exposure in mice significantly (p ≤ 0.01) increased (2.6-fold) voiding frequency as we determined using conscious, open-outlet cystometry. CYP+RVS significantly (p ≤ 0.05) increased baseline, threshold, and peak micturition pressures. We also evaluated the expression of NGF, BDNF, CXC chemokines and IL-6 in urinary bladder in CYP alone, RVS alone and CYP+RVS mouse cohorts. Although all treatments or exposures increased urinary bladder NGF, BDNF, CXC and IL-6 content, CYP+RVS produced the largest increase in all inflammatory mediators examined. These results demonstrated that CYP alone or RVS alone creates a change in the inflammatory environment of the urinary bladder but does not result in a change in bladder function or somatic sensitivity until CYP is combined with RVS (CYP+RVS). The SISE model of CYP+RVS will be useful to develop testable hypotheses addressing underlying mechanisms where psychological stress exacerbates symptoms in functional bladder disorders leading to identification of targets and potential treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatrice M Girard
- The Larner College of Medicine at The University of Vermont, Department of Neurological Sciences, Burlington, VT, 05405
| | - Susan E Campbell
- The Larner College of Medicine at The University of Vermont, Department of Neurological Sciences, Burlington, VT, 05405
| | - Margaret A Vizzard
- The Larner College of Medicine at The University of Vermont, Department of Neurological Sciences, Burlington, VT, 05405
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8
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Boakye PA, Tang SJ, Smith PA. Mediators of Neuropathic Pain; Focus on Spinal Microglia, CSF-1, BDNF, CCL21, TNF-α, Wnt Ligands, and Interleukin 1β. FRONTIERS IN PAIN RESEARCH 2022; 2:698157. [PMID: 35295524 PMCID: PMC8915739 DOI: 10.3389/fpain.2021.698157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2021] [Accepted: 07/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Intractable neuropathic pain is a frequent consequence of nerve injury or disease. When peripheral nerves are injured, damaged axons undergo Wallerian degeneration. Schwann cells, mast cells, fibroblasts, keratinocytes and epithelial cells are activated leading to the generation of an “inflammatory soup” containing cytokines, chemokines and growth factors. These primary mediators sensitize sensory nerve endings, attract macrophages, neutrophils and lymphocytes, alter gene expression, promote post-translational modification of proteins, and alter ion channel function in primary afferent neurons. This leads to increased excitability and spontaneous activity and the generation of secondary mediators including colony stimulating factor 1 (CSF-1), chemokine C-C motif ligand 21 (CCL-21), Wnt3a, and Wnt5a. Release of these mediators from primary afferent neurons alters the properties of spinal microglial cells causing them to release tertiary mediators, in many situations via ATP-dependent mechanisms. Tertiary mediators such as BDNF, tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), interleukin 1β (IL-1β), and other Wnt ligands facilitate the generation and transmission of nociceptive information by increasing excitatory glutamatergic transmission and attenuating inhibitory GABA and glycinergic transmission in the spinal dorsal horn. This review focusses on activation of microglia by secondary mediators, release of tertiary mediators from microglia and a description of their actions in the spinal dorsal horn. Attention is drawn to the substantial differences in the precise roles of various mediators in males compared to females. At least 25 different mediators have been identified but the similarity of their actions at sensory nerve endings, in the dorsal root ganglia and in the spinal cord means there is considerable redundancy in the available mechanisms. Despite this, behavioral studies show that interruption of the actions of any single mediator can relieve signs of pain in experimental animals. We draw attention this paradox. It is difficult to explain how inactivation of one mediator can relieve pain when so many parallel pathways are available.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul A Boakye
- Department of Anesthesiology, Renaissance School of Medicine, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, United States
| | - Shao-Jun Tang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Renaissance School of Medicine, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, United States
| | - Peter A Smith
- Neuroscience and Mental Health Institute and Department of Pharmacology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
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9
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Fauss GNK, Hudson KE, Grau JW. Role of Descending Serotonergic Fibers in the Development of Pathophysiology after Spinal Cord Injury (SCI): Contribution to Chronic Pain, Spasticity, and Autonomic Dysreflexia. BIOLOGY 2022; 11:234. [PMID: 35205100 PMCID: PMC8869318 DOI: 10.3390/biology11020234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2021] [Revised: 01/27/2022] [Accepted: 01/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
As the nervous system develops, nerve fibers from the brain form descending tracts that regulate the execution of motor behavior within the spinal cord, incoming sensory signals, and capacity to change (plasticity). How these fibers affect function depends upon the transmitter released, the receptor system engaged, and the pattern of neural innervation. The current review focuses upon the neurotransmitter serotonin (5-HT) and its capacity to dampen (inhibit) neural excitation. A brief review of key anatomical details, receptor types, and pharmacology is provided. The paper then considers how damage to descending serotonergic fibers contributes to pathophysiology after spinal cord injury (SCI). The loss of serotonergic fibers removes an inhibitory brake that enables plasticity and neural excitation. In this state, noxious stimulation can induce a form of over-excitation that sensitizes pain (nociceptive) circuits, a modification that can contribute to the development of chronic pain. Over time, the loss of serotonergic fibers allows prolonged motor drive (spasticity) to develop and removes a regulatory brake on autonomic function, which enables bouts of unregulated sympathetic activity (autonomic dysreflexia). Recent research has shown that the loss of descending serotonergic activity is accompanied by a shift in how the neurotransmitter GABA affects neural activity, reducing its inhibitory effect. Treatments that target the loss of inhibition could have therapeutic benefit.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - James W. Grau
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA; (G.N.K.F.); (K.E.H.)
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10
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Duan LL, Qiu XY, Wei SQ, Su HY, Bai FR, Traub RJ, Zhou Q, Cao DY. Spinal CCK contributes to somatic hyperalgesia induced by orofacial inflammation combined with stress in adult female rats. Eur J Pharmacol 2021; 913:174619. [PMID: 34748768 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2021.174619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2021] [Revised: 11/01/2021] [Accepted: 11/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
In some chronic primary pain conditions such as temporomandibular disorder (TMD) and fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS), mild or chronic stress enhances pain. TMD and FMS often occur together, but the underlying mechanisms are unclear. The purpose of this study was to investigate the role of cholecystokinin (CCK) in the spinal cord in somatic hyperalgesia induced by orofacial inflammation combined with stress. Somatic hyperalgesia was detected by the thermal withdrawal latency and mechanical withdrawal threshold. The expression of CCK1 receptors, CCK2 receptors, ERK1/2 and p-ERK1/2 in the spinal cord was examined by Western blot. After the stimulation of orofacial inflammation combined with 3 day forced swim, the expression of CCK2 receptors and p-ERK1/2 protein in the L4-L5 spinal dorsal horn increased significantly, while the expression of CCK1 receptors and ERK1/2 protein remained unchanged. Intrathecal injection of the CCK2 receptor antagonist YM-022 or mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) kinase (MEK) inhibitor PD98059 blocked somatic hyperalgesia induced by orofacial inflammation combined with stress. Intrathecal administration of the MEK inhibitor blocked somatic sensitization caused by the CCK receptor agonist CCK8. The CCK2 receptor antagonist YM-022 significantly reduced the expression of p-ERK1/2. These data indicate that upregulation of CCK2 receptors through the MAPK pathway contributes to somatic hyperalgesia in this comorbid pain model. Thus, CCK2 receptors and MAPK pathway may be potential targets for the treatment of TMD comorbid with FMS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu-Lu Duan
- Key Laboratory of Shaanxi Province for Craniofacial Precision Medicine Research, Xi'an Jiaotong University College of Stomatology, 98 West 5th Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710004, China; Department of Implant Dentistry, Xi'an Jiaotong University College of Stomatology, 98 West 5th Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710004, China
| | - Xin-Yi Qiu
- Key Laboratory of Shaanxi Province for Craniofacial Precision Medicine Research, Xi'an Jiaotong University College of Stomatology, 98 West 5th Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710004, China
| | - Si-Qi Wei
- Key Laboratory of Shaanxi Province for Craniofacial Precision Medicine Research, Xi'an Jiaotong University College of Stomatology, 98 West 5th Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710004, China
| | - Han-Yu Su
- Key Laboratory of Shaanxi Province for Craniofacial Precision Medicine Research, Xi'an Jiaotong University College of Stomatology, 98 West 5th Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710004, China
| | - Fu-Rong Bai
- Key Laboratory of Shaanxi Province for Craniofacial Precision Medicine Research, Xi'an Jiaotong University College of Stomatology, 98 West 5th Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710004, China
| | - Richard J Traub
- Department of Neural and Pain Sciences, UM Center to Advance Chronic Pain Research, University of Maryland School of Dentistry, Baltimore MD, 21201, USA
| | - Qin Zhou
- Department of Implant Dentistry, Xi'an Jiaotong University College of Stomatology, 98 West 5th Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710004, China.
| | - Dong-Yuan Cao
- Department of Implant Dentistry, Xi'an Jiaotong University College of Stomatology, 98 West 5th Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710004, China.
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11
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Azoulay D, Horowitz NA. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor in hematological malignancies: From detrimental to potentially beneficial. Blood Rev 2021; 51:100871. [PMID: 34344590 DOI: 10.1016/j.blre.2021.100871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2021] [Revised: 06/13/2021] [Accepted: 07/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Emerging studies have highlighted brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a neuronal growth factor abundant in the peripheral blood, and its tyrosine kinase receptor TRKB, as onco-genes and proteins that support the survival of malignant hematological cells. In contrast, other researchers reported on a favorable association between BDNF blood levels and prognosis, chemotherapy response and neurological side effects in patients with hematological malignancies. Here, we review the accumulated data regarding the expression of BDNF and its receptors in normal hematopoietic and lymphatic cells and tissue. In addition, in-vitro experiments, animal models and human sample studies that investigated the role of BDNF and its receptors in hematological malignancies are discussed. Finally, directions for future research aimed at revealing the mechanisms underlying the protective effect of BDNF in patients with these diseases are suggested.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Azoulay
- Hematology Unit and Laboratories, Galilee Medical Center, Naharia, Israel; Azrieli Faculty of Medicine, Bar-Ilan University, Safed, Israel.
| | - Netanel A Horowitz
- Department of Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation, Rambam Health Care Campus, Haifa, Israel; The Ruth and Bruce Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion, Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
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12
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Zarei M, Sabetkasaei M, Moini Zanjani T, Sahebi Vaighan N. The effect of microglial inhibition on the expression of BDNF, KCC2, and GABAA receptor before and after the establishment of CCI-induced neuropathic pain model. Fundam Clin Pharmacol 2021; 36:277-285. [PMID: 34302382 DOI: 10.1111/fcp.12719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2021] [Accepted: 07/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Damage to the peripheral or central nervous system results in neuropathic pain. Based on a complicated mechanism, neuropathic pain has no efficient treatment so far. It has been well-known that the expression of some proteins (BDNF, KCC2, GABA-A) during neuropathic pain changes. Microglial cell activation is considered as a trigger to alter the expression of these proteins. In the current study, the effect of minocycline as a potent microglial activation inhibitor on the gene and protein expression of these neuropathic pain mediators was investigated. This experiment was done in two paradigms, preinjury and postinjury administration of minocycline. In each paradigm, male Wistar rats (weight 150-200 g, n = 6) were allocated to sham, control, and drug groups. Minocycline (30 mg/kg, i.p.) was injected 1 h before or at day seven after nerve injury and continued till day 14 in the preemptive or postinjury part of the study, respectively. After the last injection, the animals were decapitated and the lumbar part of the spinal cord was isolated to assess the expression of genes and proteins of interest. In the preventive study, minocycline increased the expression of KCC2 and GABA-A/γ2 proteins and decreased BDNF expression. On the other hand, the target gene expression and protein expression were not changed when minocycline was administered after nerve injury. It seems that minocycline was able to change the expression of proteins of interest merely when used before nerve damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malek Zarei
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Masoumeh Sabetkasaei
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Taraneh Moini Zanjani
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Navideh Sahebi Vaighan
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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13
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Ferrini F, Salio C, Boggio EM, Merighi A. Interplay of BDNF and GDNF in the Mature Spinal Somatosensory System and Its Potential Therapeutic Relevance. Curr Neuropharmacol 2021; 19:1225-1245. [PMID: 33200712 PMCID: PMC8719296 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x18666201116143422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2020] [Revised: 09/17/2020] [Accepted: 10/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The growth factors BDNF and GDNF are gaining more and more attention as modulators of synaptic transmission in the mature central nervous system (CNS). The two molecules undergo a regulated secretion in neurons and may be anterogradely transported to terminals where they can positively or negatively modulate fast synaptic transmission. There is today a wide consensus on the role of BDNF as a pro-nociceptive modulator, as the neurotrophin has an important part in the initiation and maintenance of inflammatory, chronic, and/or neuropathic pain at the peripheral and central level. At the spinal level, BDNF intervenes in the regulation of chloride equilibrium potential, decreases the excitatory synaptic drive to inhibitory neurons, with complex changes in GABAergic/glycinergic synaptic transmission, and increases excitatory transmission in the superficial dorsal horn. Differently from BDNF, the role of GDNF still remains to be unraveled in full. This review resumes the current literature on the interplay between BDNF and GDNF in the regulation of nociceptive neurotransmission in the superficial dorsal horn of the spinal cord. We will first discuss the circuitries involved in such a regulation, as well as the reciprocal interactions between the two factors in nociceptive pathways. The development of small molecules specifically targeting BDNF, GDNF and/or downstream effectors is opening new perspectives for investigating these neurotrophic factors as modulators of nociceptive transmission and chronic pain. Therefore, we will finally consider the molecules of (potential) pharmacological relevance for tackling normal and pathological pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Ferrini
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, Grugliasco, Italy
- Department of Psychiatry & Neuroscience, Université Laval, Québec, Canada
| | - Chiara Salio
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, Grugliasco, Italy
| | - Elena M. Boggio
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, Grugliasco, Italy
| | - Adalberto Merighi
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, Grugliasco, Italy
- National Institute of Neuroscience, Grugliasco, Italy
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14
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Bhatia P, Singh N. Tadalafil ameliorates memory deficits, oxidative stress, endothelial dysfunction and neuropathological changes in rat model of hyperhomocysteinemia induced vascular dementia. Int J Neurosci 2020; 132:384-396. [PMID: 32859137 DOI: 10.1080/00207454.2020.1817009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
AIM The present study investigates the potential of Tadalafil, a phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitor, in a rat model of hyperhomocysteinemia induced vascular dementia. METHODS Hyperhomocysteinemia induced vascular dementia in Wistar rats was produced by administering l-Methionine (1.7 g/kg/day; p.o.×8 weeks). Learning and memory was assessed by employing Morris water maze (MWM) test. Endothelial dysfunction was assessed through acetylcholine-induced endothelial-dependent vasorelaxation and serum nitrite levels. Various other biochemical and histopathological estimations were also performed. RESULTS l-Methionine produced significant impairment in acetylcholine-induced endothelium-dependent vasorelaxation and a decrease in serum nitrite levels indicating endothelial dysfunction. Further, these animals performed poorly on Morris water maze, depicting impairment of learning and memory. There was a significant rise in brain oxidative stress level (indicated by an increase in brain thiobarbituric acid reactive species and a decrease in reduced glutathione levels). Increase in brain acetylcholinesterase activity; brain myeloperoxidase activity and brain neutrophil infiltration (a marker of inflammation) were also observed. Tadalafil (5 and 10 mg/kg, p.o.)/Donepezil (0.5 mg/kg, i.p., serving as standard) treatment ameliorated l-Methionine induced endothelial dysfunction; memory deficits; biochemical and histopathological changes in a significant manner. CONCLUSIONS It may be concluded that tadalafil has shown efficacy in the rat model of l-Methionine induced vascular dementia and that phosphodiesterase-5 can be considered as an important therapeutic target for the treatment of vascular dementia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pankaj Bhatia
- CNS Research Lab., Pharmacology Division, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Drug Research, Faculty of Medicine, Punjabi University, Patiala, Punjab, India
| | - Nirmal Singh
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Drug Research, Faculty of Medicine, Punjabi University, Patiala, Punjab, India
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15
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Yang Y, Wang X, Zhang X, You S, Feng L, Zhang Y, Shi Y, Xu Y, Zhang H. <p>Sonic Hedgehog Signaling Contributes to Chronic Post-Thoracotomy Pain via Activating BDNF/TrkB Pathway in Rats</p>. J Pain Res 2020; 13:1737-1746. [PMID: 32765048 PMCID: PMC7360429 DOI: 10.2147/jpr.s245515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2020] [Accepted: 06/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Some patients undergoing thoracotomy may suffer from chronic post-thoracotomy pain (CPTP). Treatment of CPTP has been a clinical challenge and the underlying mechanisms of CPTP remain elusive. Recently, sonic hedgehog (Shh) signaling has been shown to be associated with various pain states but its role in the pathogenesis of CPTP is still unclear. Methods CPTP was induced in rats by thoracotomy. Rats were divided into CPTP group and non-CPTP group based on the mechanical withdrawal threshold (MWT). Rats were administered with Shh signaling inhibitor cyclopamine and activator smoothened agonist (SAG), and then evaluated by MWT and cold allodynia testing. The expressions of Shh signaling (Shh ligand, patched and smoothened receptor, Gli transcription factors), brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), tropomyosin-related kinase receptor B (Trk-B), phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) and protein kinase B (Akt) in rat T4-5 spinal cord dorsal horn (SDH) were detected by Western blotting and immunohistochemistry. Results The expression of Shh signaling significantly increased and the BDNF/TrkB pathway was activated in T4-5 SDH of CPTP rats. Cyclopamine attenuated hyperalgesia and down-regulated the expressions of Gil1, BDNF, p-TrkB, p-PI3K and p-Akt in CPTP rats. SAG induced hyperalgesia in non-CPTP rats and elevated the expressions of Gil1, BDNF, p-TrkB, p-PI3K and p-Akt. Conclusion Shh signaling may contribute to CPTP via activating BDNF/TrkB signaling pathway, and inhibition of Shh signaling may effectively alleviate CPTP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yitian Yang
- Anesthesia and Operation Center, The First Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Medical School of Chinese PLA, Beijing100853, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiaoyan Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Fourth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Medical School of Chinese PLA, Beijing100037, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xuan Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Tianjin Cancer Institute & Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin300060, People’s Republic of China
| | - Shaohua You
- Anesthesia and Operation Center, The First Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Medical School of Chinese PLA, Beijing100853, People’s Republic of China
| | - Long Feng
- Anesthesia and Operation Center, The First Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Medical School of Chinese PLA, Beijing100853, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yunliang Zhang
- Anesthesia and Operation Center, The First Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Medical School of Chinese PLA, Beijing100853, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yizheng Shi
- Anesthesia and Operation Center, The First Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Medical School of Chinese PLA, Beijing100853, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yuhai Xu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Air Force Medical Center, Beijing100142, People’s Republic of China
| | - Hong Zhang
- Anesthesia and Operation Center, The First Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Medical School of Chinese PLA, Beijing100853, People’s Republic of China
- Correspondence: Hong Zhang; Yitian Yang Email ;
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16
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Negative association between left prefrontal GABA concentration and BDNF serum concentration in young adults. Heliyon 2020; 6:e04025. [PMID: 32490241 PMCID: PMC7260440 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2020.e04025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2019] [Revised: 12/31/2019] [Accepted: 05/15/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The brain's major inhibitory neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) play important roles in several stress-related disorders. Magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) allows for non-invasive quantification of GABA concentration in the brain. We investigated the relationship between GABA concentration in the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) and BDNF concentration in the serum in a community-based sample of young subjects. Methods For the GABA measurement a single voxel MR spectrum was assessed in the prefrontal lobe (25 × 40 × 30 mm) using the MEGA-PRESS method in 276 subjects. BDNF serum concentrations were assessed with an ELISA kit. For 147 subjects we had both MRS and BDNF serum data, and for 79 subjects we had genotype data on the BDNF rs6265 polymorphism. Depressive psychopathology was assessed using Beck's Depression Inventory (BDI), Montgomery-Asberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS) and Structured Clinical Interviews for Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (SCID) for DSM-IV. Results GABA concentration in the left DLPFC was negatively associated with BDNF serum concentration (r = -.264, p = .001). This correlation remained significant if corrected for sex (r = -.264, p = .001). BDNF serum concentration was also positively associated with volumes and surface areas of the left prefrontal cortex (p = .048, p = .005). There were no significant associations or interaction with depressive psychopathology (BDI, MADRS, SCID) or rs6265. Conclusion The results of this study suggest that GABA, BDNF and prefrontal brain volumes are interrelated, but do not show a strong association to depressive psychopathology, possibly due to the mild forms of psychiatric conditions present in our community-based sample.
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17
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Charsar BA, Brinton MA, Locke K, Chen AY, Ghosh B, Urban MW, Komaravolu S, Krishnamurthy K, Smit R, Pasinelli P, Wright MC, Smith GM, Lepore AC. AAV2-BDNF promotes respiratory axon plasticity and recovery of diaphragm function following spinal cord injury. FASEB J 2019; 33:13775-13793. [PMID: 31577916 DOI: 10.1096/fj.201901730r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
More than half of spinal cord injury (SCI) cases occur in the cervical region, leading to respiratory dysfunction due to damaged neural circuitry that controls critically important muscles such as the diaphragm. The C3-C5 spinal cord is the location of phrenic motor neurons (PhMNs) that are responsible for diaphragm activation; PhMNs receive bulbospinal excitatory drive predominately from supraspinal neurons of the rostral ventral respiratory group (rVRG). Cervical SCI results in rVRG axon damage, PhMN denervation, and consequent partial-to-complete paralysis of hemidiaphragm. In a rat model of C2 hemisection SCI, we expressed the axon guidance molecule, brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), selectively at the location of PhMNs (ipsilateral to lesion) to promote directed growth of rVRG axons toward PhMN targets by performing intraspinal injections of adeno-associated virus serotype 2 (AAV2)-BDNF vector. AAV2-BDNF promoted significant functional diaphragm recovery, as assessed by in vivo electromyography. Within the PhMN pool ipsilateral to injury, AAV2-BDNF robustly increased sprouting of both spared contralateral-originating rVRG axons and serotonergic fibers. Furthermore, AAV2-BDNF significantly increased numbers of putative monosynaptic connections between PhMNs and these sprouting rVRG and serotonergic axons. These findings show that targeting circuit plasticity mechanisms involving the enhancement of synaptic inputs from spared axon populations is a powerful strategy for restoring respiratory function post-SCI.-Charsar, B. A., Brinton, M. A., Locke, K., Chen, A. Y., Ghosh, B., Urban, M. W., Komaravolu, S., Krishnamurthy, K., Smit, R., Pasinelli, P., Wright, M. C., Smith, G. M., Lepore, A. C. AAV2-BDNF promotes respiratory axon plasticity and recovery of diaphragm function following spinal cord injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brittany A Charsar
- Department of Neuroscience, Vickie and Jack Farber Institute for Neuroscience, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Jefferson College of Life Sciences, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Michael A Brinton
- Department of Neuroscience, Vickie and Jack Farber Institute for Neuroscience, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Jefferson College of Life Sciences, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Katherine Locke
- Department of Neuroscience, Vickie and Jack Farber Institute for Neuroscience, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Jefferson College of Life Sciences, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Anna Y Chen
- Department of Neuroscience, Vickie and Jack Farber Institute for Neuroscience, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Jefferson College of Life Sciences, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Biswarup Ghosh
- Department of Neuroscience, Vickie and Jack Farber Institute for Neuroscience, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Jefferson College of Life Sciences, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Mark W Urban
- Department of Neuroscience, Vickie and Jack Farber Institute for Neuroscience, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Jefferson College of Life Sciences, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Sreeya Komaravolu
- Department of Neuroscience, Vickie and Jack Farber Institute for Neuroscience, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Jefferson College of Life Sciences, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Karthik Krishnamurthy
- Department of Neuroscience, Jefferson Weinberg Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) Center, Vickie and Jack Farber Institute for Neuroscience, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Jefferson College of Life Sciences, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Rupert Smit
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Department of Neuroscience, Shriners Hospitals Pediatric Research Center, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Piera Pasinelli
- Department of Neuroscience, Jefferson Weinberg Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) Center, Vickie and Jack Farber Institute for Neuroscience, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Jefferson College of Life Sciences, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Megan C Wright
- Department of Biology, Arcadia University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - George M Smith
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Department of Neuroscience, Shriners Hospitals Pediatric Research Center, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Angelo C Lepore
- Department of Neuroscience, Vickie and Jack Farber Institute for Neuroscience, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Jefferson College of Life Sciences, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
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18
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Bhatia P, Singh N. Ameliorative Effect of Phosphodiesterase-5 Inhibitor in Rat Model of Vascular Dementia. Curr Neurovasc Res 2019; 16:27-39. [DOI: 10.2174/1567202616666190130153954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2018] [Revised: 01/03/2019] [Accepted: 01/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Introduction:
Cerebral hypoperfusion has been considered as major risk factor for Vascular
Dementia (VaD). The present study shows the potential of Tadalafil, a phosphodiesterase-5
inhibitor, in bilateral common carotid artery occlusion (BCCAo) induced VaD in rats.
Materials and Methods:
BCCAo procedure was performed under anesthesia in wistar rats to induce
VaD. Morris Water-Maze (MWM) parameter was employed on 7th day post-surgery to determine
learning and memory. Escape latency time, time spent in target quadrant, Path length and
average swim speed taken as important parameters in MWM. Endothelial dysfunction was assessed
in isolated aorta by observing endothelial dependent vasorelaxations and levels of serum
nitrite. Various biochemical and histopathological estimations were also performed.
Results:
BCCAo produced significant impairment in endothelium dependent vasorelaxation and a
decrease in serum nitrite levels indicating endothelial dysfunction. Further poor performance on
MWM represents impairment of learning and memory. There was a significant rise in brain oxidative
stress level (indicated by increase in brain thiobarbituric acid reactive species and decrease in
reduced glutathione levels). Increase in brain acetylcholinesterase activity; brain myloperoxidase
activity and brain neutrophil infiltration (as marker of inflammation) were also observed.
Treatment of Tadalafil (5 & 10 mg/kg, p. o.)/Donepezil (0. 5 mg/kg, i.p., serving as standard)
ameliorated BCCAo induced endothelial dysfunction; memory deficits; biochemical and
histopathological changes in a significant manner.
Conclusion:
It may be concluded that Tadalafil has shown efficacy in rat model of BCCAo induced
VaD and that phosphodiesterase-5 can be considered as an important therapeutic target for
the treatment of VaD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pankaj Bhatia
- CNS Research Lab., Pharmacology Division, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Drug Research, Faculty of Medicine, Punjabi University, Patiala - 147002, Punjab, India
| | - Nirmal Singh
- CNS Research Lab., Pharmacology Division, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Drug Research, Faculty of Medicine, Punjabi University, Patiala - 147002, Punjab, India
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19
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Boakye PA, Rancic V, Whitlock KH, Simmons D, Longo FM, Ballanyi K, Smith PA. Receptor dependence of BDNF actions in superficial dorsal horn: relation to central sensitization and actions of macrophage colony stimulating factor 1. J Neurophysiol 2019; 121:2308-2322. [PMID: 30995156 DOI: 10.1152/jn.00839.2018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Peripheral nerve injury elicits an enduring increase in the excitability of the spinal dorsal horn. This change, which contributes to the development of neuropathic pain, is a consequence of release and prolonged exposure of dorsal horn neurons to various neurotrophins and cytokines. We have shown in rats that nerve injury increases excitatory synaptic drive to excitatory neurons but decreases drive to inhibitory neurons. Both effects, which contribute to an increase in dorsal horn excitability, appear to be mediated by microglia-derived BDNF. We have used multiphoton Ca2+ imaging and whole cell recording of spontaneous excitatory postsynaptic currents in defined-medium organotypic cultures of GAD67-GFP+ mice spinal cord to determine the receptor dependence of these opposing actions of BDNF. In mice, as in rats, BDNF enhances excitatory transmission onto excitatory neurons. This is mediated via presynaptic TrkB and p75 neurotrophin receptors and exclusively by postsynaptic TrkB. By contrast with findings from rats, in mice BDNF does not decrease excitation of inhibitory neurons. The cytokine macrophage colony-stimulating factor 1 (CSF-1) has also been implicated in the onset of neuropathic pain. Nerve injury provokes its de novo synthesis in primary afferents, its release in spinal cord, and activation of microglia. We now show that CSF-1 increases excitatory drive to excitatory neurons via a BDNF-dependent mechanism and decreases excitatory drive to inhibitory neurons via BDNF-independent processes. Our findings complete missing steps in the cascade of events whereby peripheral nerve injury instigates increased dorsal horn excitability in the context of central sensitization and the onset of neuropathic pain. NEW & NOTEWORTHY Nerve injury provokes synthesis of macrophage colony-stimulating factor 1 (CSF-1) in primary afferents and its release in the dorsal horn. We show that CSF-1 increases excitatory drive to excitatory dorsal horn neurons via BDNF activation of postsynaptic TrkB and presynaptic TrkB and p75 neurotrophin receptors. CSF-1 decreases excitatory drive to inhibitory neurons via a BDNF-independent processes. This completes missing steps in understanding how peripheral injury instigates central sensitization and the onset of neuropathic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul A Boakye
- Neuroscience and Mental Health Institute, University of Alberta , Edmonton , Canada
| | - Vladimir Rancic
- Neuroscience and Mental Health Institute, University of Alberta , Edmonton , Canada.,Department of Physiology, University of Alberta , Edmonton , Canada
| | - Kerri H Whitlock
- Neuroscience and Mental Health Institute, University of Alberta , Edmonton , Canada
| | - Danielle Simmons
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University , Stanford, California
| | - Frank M Longo
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University , Stanford, California
| | - Klaus Ballanyi
- Neuroscience and Mental Health Institute, University of Alberta , Edmonton , Canada.,Department of Physiology, University of Alberta , Edmonton , Canada
| | - Peter A Smith
- Neuroscience and Mental Health Institute, University of Alberta , Edmonton , Canada.,Department of Pharmacology, University of Alberta , Edmonton , Canada
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20
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Tiwari N, Bhatia P, Kumar A, Jaggi AS, Singh N. Potential of carnosine, a histamine precursor in rat model of bilateral common carotid artery occlusion-induced vascular dementia. Fundam Clin Pharmacol 2018; 32:516-531. [DOI: 10.1111/fcp.12376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2017] [Revised: 03/28/2018] [Accepted: 04/13/2018] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Nidhi Tiwari
- CNS Research Lab.; Pharmacology Division; Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Drug Research; Faculty of Medicine; Punjabi University; Patiala 147002 Punjab India
| | - Pankaj Bhatia
- CNS Research Lab.; Pharmacology Division; Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Drug Research; Faculty of Medicine; Punjabi University; Patiala 147002 Punjab India
| | - Amit Kumar
- CNS Research Lab.; Pharmacology Division; Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Drug Research; Faculty of Medicine; Punjabi University; Patiala 147002 Punjab India
- Pharmacology Division; Maharaja Agrasen School of Pharmacy; Maharaja Agrasen University; Baddi 174103 Himachal Pradesh India
| | - Amteshwar S. Jaggi
- Pharmacology Division; Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Drug Research; Faculty of Medicine; Punjabi University; Patiala 147002 Punjab India
| | - Nirmal Singh
- Pharmacology Division; Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Drug Research; Faculty of Medicine; Punjabi University; Patiala 147002 Punjab India
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21
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Simeoli R, Montague K, Jones HR, Castaldi L, Chambers D, Kelleher JH, Vacca V, Pitcher T, Grist J, Al-Ahdal H, Wong LF, Perretti M, Lai J, Mouritzen P, Heppenstall P, Malcangio M. Exosomal cargo including microRNA regulates sensory neuron to macrophage communication after nerve trauma. Nat Commun 2017; 8:1778. [PMID: 29176651 PMCID: PMC5701122 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-017-01841-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 203] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2017] [Accepted: 10/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Following peripheral axon injury, dysregulation of non-coding microRNAs (miRs) occurs in dorsal root ganglia (DRG) sensory neurons. Here we show that DRG neuron cell bodies release extracellular vesicles, including exosomes containing miRs, upon activity. We demonstrate that miR-21-5p is released in the exosomal fraction of cultured DRG following capsaicin activation of TRPV1 receptors. Pure sensory neuron-derived exosomes released by capsaicin are readily phagocytosed by macrophages in which an increase in miR-21-5p expression promotes a pro-inflammatory phenotype. After nerve injury in mice, miR-21-5p is upregulated in DRG neurons and both intrathecal delivery of a miR-21-5p antagomir and conditional deletion of miR-21 in sensory neurons reduce neuropathic hypersensitivity as well as the extent of inflammatory macrophage recruitment in the DRG. We suggest that upregulation and release of miR-21 contribute to sensory neuron–macrophage communication after damage to the peripheral nerve. Exosomes are known to contain microRNAs (miRs). Here the authors show that dorsal root ganglion neurons release exosomes containing miR-21-5p, which contributes to inflammatory cell recruitment following peripheral nerve injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raffaele Simeoli
- Wolfson Centre for Age Related Diseases, King's College London, London, SE1 1UL, UK
| | - Karli Montague
- Wolfson Centre for Age Related Diseases, King's College London, London, SE1 1UL, UK
| | - Hefin R Jones
- The William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine, Queen Mary University of London, London, EC1M 6BQ, UK
| | - Laura Castaldi
- EMBL Monterotondo, Via Ramarini 32, 00016, Monterotondo, Italy
| | - David Chambers
- Wolfson Centre for Age Related Diseases, King's College London, London, SE1 1UL, UK
| | - Jayne H Kelleher
- Wolfson Centre for Age Related Diseases, King's College London, London, SE1 1UL, UK
| | - Valentina Vacca
- Wolfson Centre for Age Related Diseases, King's College London, London, SE1 1UL, UK.,Institute of Cell Biology and Neurobiology, National Research Council and IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia, 00143, Rome, Italy
| | - Thomas Pitcher
- Wolfson Centre for Age Related Diseases, King's College London, London, SE1 1UL, UK
| | - John Grist
- Wolfson Centre for Age Related Diseases, King's College London, London, SE1 1UL, UK
| | - Hadil Al-Ahdal
- School of Clinical Sciences, Medical Science Building, University of Bristol, Bristol, BS8 1TD, UK
| | - Liang-Fong Wong
- School of Clinical Sciences, Medical Science Building, University of Bristol, Bristol, BS8 1TD, UK
| | - Mauro Perretti
- The William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine, Queen Mary University of London, London, EC1M 6BQ, UK
| | | | | | | | - Marzia Malcangio
- Wolfson Centre for Age Related Diseases, King's College London, London, SE1 1UL, UK.
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Spinal Plasticity and Behavior: BDNF-Induced Neuromodulation in Uninjured and Injured Spinal Cord. Neural Plast 2016; 2016:9857201. [PMID: 27721996 PMCID: PMC5046018 DOI: 10.1155/2016/9857201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2016] [Revised: 07/27/2016] [Accepted: 08/10/2016] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is a member of the neurotrophic factor family of signaling molecules. Since its discovery over three decades ago, BDNF has been identified as an important regulator of neuronal development, synaptic transmission, and cellular and synaptic plasticity and has been shown to function in the formation and maintenance of certain forms of memory. Neural plasticity that underlies learning and memory in the hippocampus shares distinct characteristics with spinal cord nociceptive plasticity. Research examining the role BDNF plays in spinal nociception and pain overwhelmingly suggests that BDNF promotes pronociceptive effects. BDNF induces synaptic facilitation and engages central sensitization-like mechanisms. Also, peripheral injury-induced neuropathic pain is often accompanied with increased spinal expression of BDNF. Research has extended to examine how spinal cord injury (SCI) influences BDNF plasticity and the effects BDNF has on sensory and motor functions after SCI. Functional recovery and adaptive plasticity after SCI are typically associated with upregulation of BDNF. Although neuropathic pain is a common consequence of SCI, the relation between BDNF and pain after SCI remains elusive. This article reviews recent literature and discusses the diverse actions of BDNF. We also highlight similarities and differences in BDNF-induced nociceptive plasticity in naïve and SCI conditions.
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Neurokinin-1 receptor inhibition reverses ischaemic brain injury and dementia in bilateral common carotid artery occluded rats: possible mechanisms. Inflammopharmacology 2016; 24:133-43. [DOI: 10.1007/s10787-016-0271-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2016] [Accepted: 06/21/2016] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
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Dietary Restriction Affects Neuronal Response Property and GABA Synthesis in the Primary Visual Cortex. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0149004. [PMID: 26863207 PMCID: PMC4749323 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0149004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2015] [Accepted: 01/25/2016] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Previous studies have reported inconsistent effects of dietary restriction (DR) on cortical inhibition. To clarify this issue, we examined the response properties of neurons in the primary visual cortex (V1) of DR and control groups of cats using in vivo extracellular single-unit recording techniques, and assessed the synthesis of inhibitory neurotransmitter GABA in the V1 of cats from both groups using immunohistochemical and Western blot techniques. Our results showed that the response of V1 neurons to visual stimuli was significantly modified by DR, as indicated by an enhanced selectivity for stimulus orientations and motion directions, decreased visually-evoked response, lowered spontaneous activity and increased signal-to-noise ratio in DR cats relative to control cats. Further, it was shown that, accompanied with these changes of neuronal responsiveness, GABA immunoreactivity and the expression of a key GABA-synthesizing enzyme GAD67 in the V1 were significantly increased by DR. These results demonstrate that DR may retard brain aging by increasing the intracortical inhibition effect and improve the function of visual cortical neurons in visual information processing. This DR-induced elevation of cortical inhibition may favor the brain in modulating energy expenditure based on food availability.
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Frias B, Santos J, Morgado M, Sousa MM, Gray SMY, McCloskey KD, Allen S, Cruz F, Cruz CD. The role of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in the development of neurogenic detrusor overactivity (NDO). J Neurosci 2015; 35:2146-60. [PMID: 25653370 PMCID: PMC4315839 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.0373-14.2015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2014] [Revised: 11/21/2014] [Accepted: 11/27/2014] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurogenic detrusor overactivity (NDO) is a well known consequence of spinal cord injury (SCI), recognizable after spinal shock, during which the bladder is areflexic. NDO emergence and maintenance depend on profound plastic changes of the spinal neuronal pathways regulating bladder function. It is well known that neurotrophins (NTs) are major regulators of such changes. NGF is the best-studied NT in the bladder and its role in NDO has already been established. Another very abundant neurotrophin is BDNF. Despite being shown that, acting at the spinal cord level, BDNF is a key mediator of bladder dysfunction and pain during cystitis, it is presently unclear if it is also important for NDO. This study aimed to clarify this issue. Results obtained pinpoint BDNF as an important regulator of NDO appearance and maintenance. Spinal BDNF expression increased in a time-dependent manner together with NDO emergence. In chronic SCI rats, BDNF sequestration improved bladder function, indicating that, at later stages, BDNF contributes NDO maintenance. During spinal shock, BDNF sequestration resulted in early development of bladder hyperactivity, accompanied by increased axonal growth of calcitonin gene-related peptide-labeled fibers in the dorsal horn. Chronic BDNF administration inhibited the emergence of NDO, together with reduction of axonal growth, suggesting that BDNF may have a crucial role in bladder function after SCI via inhibition of neuronal sprouting. These findings highlight the role of BDNF in NDO and may provide a significant contribution to create more efficient therapies to manage SCI patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bárbara Frias
- Department of Experimental Biology, Faculty of Medicine of Porto, University of Porto, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal, Translational NeuroUrology and
| | - João Santos
- Department of Experimental Biology, Faculty of Medicine of Porto, University of Porto, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal
| | - Marlene Morgado
- Nerve Regeneration Group, IBMC-Instituto de Biologia Molecular e Celular, Universidade do Porto, 4150-180 Porto, Portugal
| | - Mónica Mendes Sousa
- Nerve Regeneration Group, IBMC-Instituto de Biologia Molecular e Celular, Universidade do Porto, 4150-180 Porto, Portugal
| | - Susannah M Y Gray
- Centre for Cancer Research and Cell Biology, School of Medicine, Dentistry and Biomedical Sciences, Queen's University Belfast, BT7 1 NN Belfast, United Kingdom
| | - Karen D McCloskey
- Centre for Cancer Research and Cell Biology, School of Medicine, Dentistry and Biomedical Sciences, Queen's University Belfast, BT7 1 NN Belfast, United Kingdom
| | - Shelley Allen
- Molecular Neurobiology Unit, University of Bristol, School of Clinical Sciences, BS10 5NB Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Francisco Cruz
- Translational NeuroUrology and Department of Urology, Hospital de S. João, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal, and
| | - Célia Duarte Cruz
- Department of Experimental Biology, Faculty of Medicine of Porto, University of Porto, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal, Translational NeuroUrology and
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Smith PA. BDNF: No gain without pain? Neuroscience 2014; 283:107-23. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2014.05.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2014] [Revised: 05/16/2014] [Accepted: 05/21/2014] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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Sarchielli P, Gallai V. Nerve growth factor and chronic daily headache: a potential implication for therapy. Expert Rev Neurother 2014; 4:115-27. [PMID: 15853622 DOI: 10.1586/14737175.4.1.115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
The pivotal role of nerve growth factor in inducing hyperalgesia and central sensitization has been emphasized in experimental pain models. Higher nerve growth factor levels have recently been found in the cerebrospinal fluid of patients with chronic daily headache. These levels were significantly correlated with the cerebrospinal fluid levels of substance P and calcitonin gene-related peptide, supporting the involvement of this neurotrophin in enhancing the production of the two sensory neuropeptides of the trigemino-vascular system in chronic daily headache. This may, in part, account for the long-lasting sensitization and activation of this system, which could contribute to headache chronicity. More recent research has shown a significant correlation between the higher cerebrospinal fluid levels of nerve growth factor and those of another neurotrophin, the brain-derived neurotrophic factor, as well as glutamate in chronic daily headache patients. These findings suggest the potential involvement of nerve growth factor-mediated upregulation of brain-derived neurotrophic factor in persistent head pain. Therefore, nerve growth factor appears to indirectly exert its effect through enhancing glutamatergic transmission involved in the processing of head pain via brain-derived neurotrophic factor. Based on these data, a potential application can be hypothesized for novel strategies targeting neurotrophins (nerve growth factor and brain-derived neurotrophic factor) and their receptors to chronic daily headache. To date, the majority of the molecules discovered in this regard have been scarcely or never proved in animal pain models and are far from clinical use in chronic pain, including chronic daily headache. If this approach is to be developed in the near future, research should be focused on identifying strategies with few central side effects and specific selective action on central sites involved in chronic head pain and more generally in chronic pain conditions. This will represent a very difficult challenge, taking into account the pleiotropic effect of nerve growth factor and the wide range of intracellular signalling pathways activated by this neurotrophin which are not limited to the nociceptive system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola Sarchielli
- Department of Neuroscience, Neurologic Clinic, Via E Dal Pozzo 06126, Perugia, Italy.
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Li Q, Liu Y, Chu Z, Chen J, Dai F, Zhu X, Hu A, Yun C. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor expression in dorsal root ganglia of a lumbar spinal stenosis model in rats. Mol Med Rep 2013; 8:1836-44. [PMID: 24127005 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2013.1723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2013] [Accepted: 09/26/2013] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in dorsal root ganglia (DRG) of a rat model of lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS). Adult male rats were divided into the operation and sham operation groups. The operation group was comprised of the rat models of LSS. Walking distance and BDNF expression levels in DRG were measured in the two groups at different time points. The total BDNF protein levels and positive cell mean optical density (MOD) values in the operation group were significantly higher at each time point compared with that of the sham operation and preoperative control groups (P<0.05). The total BDNF protein levels and MOD values following sport in the operation group were significantly higher compared with those prior to sport (P<0.05). In the sham operation group, BDNF protein levels and MOD values before and after sport at each time point showed no significant differences than those of the operation group (P>0.05). Moreover, BDNF protein levels and MOD values in the operation group indicated a negative correlation with walking distance. The present study demonstrated that the expression of BDNF in rat models of LSS increased with time and was associated with a decrease in walking distance. BDNF was therefore important for the process of intermittent claudication caused by LSS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qinliang Li
- Department of Spine, The Affiliated Lianyungang Hospital of Xuzhou Medical College, Lianyungang, Jiangsu 222000, P.R. China
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Brain-derived neurotrophic factor, acting at the spinal cord level, participates in bladder hyperactivity and referred pain during chronic bladder inflammation. Neuroscience 2013; 234:88-102. [PMID: 23313710 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2012.12.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2012] [Revised: 12/18/2012] [Accepted: 12/19/2012] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is a neurotrophin (NT) known to participate in chronic somatic pain. A recent study has indicated that BDNF may participate in chronic cystitis at the peripheral level. However, the principal site of action for this NT is the central nervous system, most notably the spinal cord. The effects of centrally-acting BDNF on bladder function in normal animals and its central role during chronic cystitis are presently unknown. The present study was undertaken to clarify this issue. For that purpose, control non-inflamed animals were intrathecally injected with BDNF, after which bladder function was evaluated. This treatment caused short-lasting bladder hyperactivity; whereas chronic intrathecal administration of BDNF did not elicit this effect. Cutaneous sensitivity was assessed by mechanical allodynia as an internal control of BDNF action. To ascertain the role of BDNF in bladder inflammation, animals with cyclophosphamide-induced cystitis received intrathecal injections of either a general Trk receptor antagonist or a BDNF scavenger. Blockade of Trk receptors or BDNF sequestration notably improved bladder function. In addition, these treatments also reduced referred pain, typically observed in rats with chronic cystitis. Reduction of referred pain was accompanied by a decrease in the spinal levels of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) phosphorylation, a marker of increased sensory barrage in the lumbosacral spinal cord, and spinal BDNF expression. Results obtained here indicate that BDNF, acting at the spinal cord level, contributes to bladder hyperactivity and referred pain, important hallmarks of chronic cystitis. In addition, these data also support the development of BDNF modulators as putative therapeutic options for the treatment of chronic bladder inflammation.
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Li Q, Zhang X, Liu K, Gong L, Li J, Yao W, Liu C, Yu S, Li Y, Yao Z, Ma X. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor exerts antinociceptive effects by reducing excitability of colon-projecting dorsal root ganglion neurons in the colorectal distention-evoked visceral pain model. J Neurosci Res 2012; 90:2328-34. [DOI: 10.1002/jnr.23119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2012] [Revised: 06/24/2012] [Accepted: 06/27/2012] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
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Boulle F, Kenis G, Cazorla M, Hamon M, Steinbusch HWM, Lanfumey L, van den Hove DLA. TrkB inhibition as a therapeutic target for CNS-related disorders. Prog Neurobiol 2012; 98:197-206. [PMID: 22705453 DOI: 10.1016/j.pneurobio.2012.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2011] [Revised: 05/30/2012] [Accepted: 06/06/2012] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
The interaction of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) with its tropomyosin-related kinase receptor B (TrkB) is involved in fundamental cellular processes including neuronal proliferation, differentiation and survival as well as neurotransmitter release and synaptic plasticity. TrkB signaling has been widely associated with beneficial, trophic effects and many commonly used psychotropic drugs aim to increase BDNF levels in the brain. However, it is likely that a prolonged increased TrkB activation is observed in many pathological conditions, which may underlie the development and course of clinical symptoms. Interestingly, genetic and pharmacological studies aiming at decreasing TrkB activation in rodent models mimicking human pathology have demonstrated a promising therapeutic landscape for TrkB inhibitors in the treatment of various diseases, e.g. central nervous system (CNS) disorders and several types of cancer. Up to date, only a few selective and potent TrkB inhibitors have been developed. As such, the use of crystallography and in silico approaches to model BDNF-TrkB interaction and to generate relevant pharmacophores represent powerful tools to develop novel compounds targeting the TrkB receptor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabien Boulle
- Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, Maastricht University, European Graduate School for Neuroscience (EURON), Maastricht, The Netherlands
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Cao XH, Chen SR, Li L, Pan HL. Nerve injury increases brain-derived neurotrophic factor levels to suppress BK channel activity in primary sensory neurons. J Neurochem 2012; 121:944-53. [PMID: 22428625 DOI: 10.1111/j.1471-4159.2012.07736.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Abnormal hyperexcitability of primary sensory neurons contributes to neuropathic pain development after nerve injury. Nerve injury profoundly reduces the expression of big conductance Ca(2+) -activated K(+) (BK) channels in the dorsal root ganglion (DRG). However, little is known about how nerve injury affects BK channel activity in DRG neurons. In this study, we determined the changes in BK channel activity in DRG neurons in a rat model of neuropathic pain and the contribution of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) to reduced BK channel activity. The BK channel activity was present predominantly in small and medium DRG neurons, and ligation of L5 and L6 spinal nerves profoundly decreased the BK current density in these neurons. Blocking BK channels significantly increased neuronal excitability in sham control, but not in nerve-injured, rats. The BDNF concentration in the DRG was significantly greater in nerve-injured rats than in control rats. BDNF treatment largely reduced BK currents in DRG neurons in control rats, which was blocked by either anti-BDNF antibody or K252a, a Trk receptor inhibitor. Furthermore, either anti-BDNF antibody or K252a reversed reduction in BK currents in injured DRG neurons. BDNF treatment reduced the mRNA levels of BKα1 subunit in DRG neurons, and anti-BDNF antibody attenuated the reduction in the BKα1 mRNA level in injured DRG neurons. These findings suggest that nerve injury primarily diminishes the BK channel activity in small and medium DRG neurons. Increased BDNF levels contribute to reduced BK channel activity in DRG neurons through epigenetic and transcriptional mechanisms in neuropathic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue-Hong Cao
- Center for Neuroscience and Pain Research, Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
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Lu VB, Colmers WF, Smith PA. Long-term actions of BDNF on inhibitory synaptic transmission in identified neurons of the rat substantia gelatinosa. J Neurophysiol 2012; 108:441-52. [PMID: 22496528 DOI: 10.1152/jn.00457.2011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Peripheral nerve injury promotes the release of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) from spinal microglial cells and primary afferent terminals. This induces an increase in dorsal horn excitability that contributes to "central sensitization" and to the onset of neuropathic pain. Although it is accepted that impairment of GABAergic and/or glycinergic inhibition contributes to this process, certain lines of evidence suggest that GABA release in the dorsal horn may increase after nerve injury. To resolve these contradictory findings, we exposed rat spinal cord neurons in defined-medium organotypic culture to 200 ng/ml BDNF for 6 days to mimic the change in spinal BDNF levels that accompanies peripheral nerve injury. Morphological and electrophysiological criteria and glutamic acid decarboxylase (GAD) immunohistochemistry were used to distinguish putative inhibitory tonic-islet-central neurons from putative excitatory delay-radial neurons. Whole cell recording in the presence of 1 μM tetrodotoxin showed that BDNF increased the amplitude of GABAergic and glycinergic miniature inhibitory postsynaptic currents (mIPSCs) in both cell types. It also increased the amplitude and frequency of spontaneous, action potential-dependent IPSCs (sIPSCs) in putative excitatory neurons. By contrast, BDNF reduced sIPSC amplitude in inhibitory neurons but frequency was unchanged. This increase in inhibitory drive to excitatory neurons and decreased inhibitory drive to inhibitory neurons seems inconsistent with the observation that BDNF increases overall dorsal horn excitability. One of several explanations for this discrepancy is that the action of BDNF in the substantia gelatinosa is dominated by previously documented increases in excitatory synaptic transmission rather than by impediment of inhibitory transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Van B Lu
- Department of Pharmacology and Centre for Neuroscience, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
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Biggs JE, Van B. Lu, Kim HJ, Lai A, Todd KG, Ballanyi K, Colmers WF, Smith PA. Defined Medium Organotypic Cultures of Spinal Cord Put ‘Pain in a Dish’. ISOLATED CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM CIRCUITS 2012. [DOI: 10.1007/978-1-62703-020-5_14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
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Huie JR, Garraway SM, Baumbauer KM, Hoy KC, Beas BS, Montgomery KS, Bizon JL, Grau JW. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor promotes adaptive plasticity within the spinal cord and mediates the beneficial effects of controllable stimulation. Neuroscience 2011; 200:74-90. [PMID: 22056599 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2011.10.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2011] [Revised: 10/14/2011] [Accepted: 10/15/2011] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) has been characterized as a potent modulator of neural plasticity in both the brain and spinal cord. The present experiments use an in vivo model system to demonstrate that training with controllable stimulation increases spinal BDNF expression and engages a BDNF-dependent process that promotes adaptive plasticity. Spinally transected rats administered legshock whenever one hind limb is extended (controllable stimulation) exhibit a progressive increase in flexion duration. This simple form of response-outcome (instrumental) learning is not observed when shock is given independent of leg position (uncontrollable stimulation). Uncontrollable electrical stimulation also induces a lasting effect that impairs learning for up to 48 h. Training with controllable shock can counter the adverse consequences of uncontrollable stimulation, to both prevent and reverse the learning deficit. Here it is shown that the protective and restorative effect of instrumental training depends on BDNF. Cellular assays showed that controllable stimulation increased BDNF mRNA expression and protein within the lumbar spinal cord. These changes were associated with an increase in the BDNF receptor TrkB protein within the dorsal horn. Evidence is then presented that these changes play a functional role in vivo. Application of a BDNF inhibitor (TrkB-IgG) blocked the protective effect of instrumental training. Direct (intrathecal) application of BDNF substituted for instrumental training to block both the induction and expression of the learning deficit. Uncontrollable stimulation also induced an increase in mechanical reactivity (allodynia), and this too was prevented by BDNF. TrkB-IgG blocked the restorative effect of instrumental training and intrathecal BDNF substituted for training to reverse the deficit. Taken together, these findings outline a critical role for BDNF in mediating the beneficial effects of controllable stimulation on spinal plasticity.
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Affiliation(s)
- J R Huie
- Department of Psychology, Mail Stop 4235, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA.
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Zhang X, Wang J, Zhou Q, Xu Y, Pu S, Wu J, Xue Y, Tian Y, Lu J, Jiang W, Du D. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor-activated astrocytes produce mechanical allodynia in neuropathic pain. Neuroscience 2011; 199:452-60. [PMID: 22044922 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2011.10.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2011] [Revised: 10/10/2011] [Accepted: 10/11/2011] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Neuropathic pain management is challenging for physicians and a vexing problem for basic researchers. Recent studies reveal that activated spinal astrocytes may play a vital role in nerve injury-induced neuropathic pain, although the mechanisms are not fully understood. We have found increased glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) expression, a hallmark of reactive gliosis, and elevated brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) expression in the dorsal horn in a rat model of allodynia induced by spinal nerve ligation (SNL). The high GFAP expression and mechanical allodynia that SNL induces were prevented by the intrathecal injection of the BDNF-sequestering fusion protein TrkB/Fc. Additionally, mechanical allodynia and GFAP overexpression was induced by the spinal administration of exogenous BDNF to naive rats, and exogenous BDNF given together with fluorocitrate, an astrocytic metabolism inhibitor, inhibited allodynia and GFAP upregulation. Exogenous BDNF also activated the astrocytes directly when tested in vitro. Furthermore, intrathecal administration of BDNF-stimulated astrocytes also induced mechanical allodynia in naive rats. All of these results indicate that astrocytes activated by BDNF might contribute to mechanical allodynia development in neuropathic pain in rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- X Zhang
- Pain Management Center, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai 200233, China
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Zhang X, Xu Y, Wang J, Zhou Q, Pu S, Jiang W, Du D. The effect of intrathecal administration of glial activation inhibitors on dorsal horn BDNF overexpression and hind paw mechanical allodynia in spinal nerve ligated rats. J Neural Transm (Vienna) 2011; 119:329-36. [PMID: 21901501 DOI: 10.1007/s00702-011-0713-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2011] [Accepted: 08/23/2011] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Recent studies have suggested that activated glia in the spinal cord may play a vital role at different times during spinal nerve ligation (SNL)-induced neuropathic pain; therefore, glial activation inhibitors have been used as effective painkillers. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is also known to be a powerful pain modulator, but it remains unclear how it contributes to the glial activation inhibitor-based treatment. This study revealed the following results: (1) intrathecal administration of minocycline (a microglial activation inhibitor) could prevent mechanical allodynia during the initiation of SNL-induced neuropathic pain, and its action was associated with the elimination of BDNF overexpression in the dorsal horn; (2) the spinal injection of fluorocitrate (an astrocytic activation inhibitor) but not minocycline could reverse mechanical allodynia during the maintenance phase of SNL-induced pain, and its action was also related to a decrease in BDNF overexpression in the dorsal horn; and (3) treatment with TrkB/Fc (a BDNF-sequestering protein) had a similar effect during both the early development and maintenance periods. These results led to the following conclusions: (1) elevated BDNF expression in the dorsal horn was required to develop and maintain neuropathic pain; (2) minocycline could only prevent mechanical allodynia in the early stages, possibly by inhibiting BDNF release from microglia; and (3) fluorocitrate could reverse existing mechanical allodynia, and its action was associated with the inhibition of BDNF upregulation induced by astrocytic activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Zhang
- Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
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39
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Haas L, Portela LVC, Böhmer AE, Oses JP, Lara DR. Increased Plasma Levels of Brain Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) in Patients with Fibromyalgia. Neurochem Res 2010; 35:830-4. [DOI: 10.1007/s11064-010-0129-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
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40
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Molecular mechanisms underlying synergistic effects of SSRI–antipsychotic augmentation in treatment of negative symptoms in schizophrenia. J Neural Transm (Vienna) 2009; 116:1529-41. [DOI: 10.1007/s00702-009-0255-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2008] [Accepted: 06/05/2009] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
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Abstract
Hyperalgesia and allodynia are frequent symptoms of disease and may be useful adaptations to protect vulnerable tissues. Both may, however, also emerge as diseases in their own right. Considerable progress has been made in developing clinically relevant animal models for identifying the most significant underlying mechanisms. This review deals with experimental models that are currently used to measure (sect. II) or to induce (sect. III) hyperalgesia and allodynia in animals. Induction and expression of hyperalgesia and allodynia are context sensitive. This is discussed in section IV. Neuronal and nonneuronal cell populations have been identified that are indispensable for the induction and/or the expression of hyperalgesia and allodynia as summarized in section V. This review focuses on highly topical spinal mechanisms of hyperalgesia and allodynia including intrinsic and synaptic plasticity, the modulation of inhibitory control (sect. VI), and neuroimmune interactions (sect. VII). The scientific use of language improves also in the field of pain research. Refined definitions of some technical terms including the new definitions of hyperalgesia and allodynia by the International Association for the Study of Pain are illustrated and annotated in section I.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jürgen Sandkühler
- Department of Neurophysiology, Center for Brain Research, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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Lu VB, Colmers WF, Smith PA. Long-term effects of brain-derived neurotrophic factor on the frequency of inhibitory synaptic events in the rat superficial dorsal horn. Neuroscience 2009; 161:1135-43. [PMID: 19376198 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2009.04.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2009] [Revised: 04/10/2009] [Accepted: 04/10/2009] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Chronic constriction injury (CCI) of rat sciatic nerve produces a specific pattern of electrophysiological changes in the superficial dorsal horn that lead to central sensitization that is associated with neuropathic pain. These changes can be recapitulated in spinal cord organotypic cultures by long term (5-6 days) exposure to brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) (200 ng/ml). Certain lines of evidence suggest that both CCI and BDNF increase excitatory synaptic drive to putative excitatory neurons while reducing that to putative inhibitory interneurons. Because BDNF slows the rate of discharge of synaptically-driven action potentials in inhibitory neurons, it should also decrease the frequency of spontaneous inhibitory postsynaptic currents (sIPSCs) throughout the superficial dorsal horn. To test this possibility, we characterized superficial dorsal horn neurons in organotypic cultures according to five electrophysiological phenotypes that included tonic, delay and irregular firing neurons. Five to 6 days of treatment with 200 ng/ml BDNF decreased sIPSC frequency in tonic and irregular neurons as might be expected if BDNF selectively decreases excitatory synaptic drive to inhibitory interneurons. The frequency of sIPSCs in delay neurons was however increased. Further analysis of the action of BDNF on tetrodotoxin-resistant miniature inhibitory postsynaptic currents (mIPSC) showed that the frequency was increased in delay neurons, unchanged in tonic neurons and decreased in irregular neurons. BDNF may thus reduce action potential frequency in those inhibitory interneurons that project to tonic and irregular neurons but not in those that project to delay neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- V B Lu
- Department of Pharmacology and Centre for Neuroscience, 9.75 Medical Sciences Building, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G3E7, Canada
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43
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Bretzner F, Liu J, Currie E, Roskams AJ, Tetzlaff W. Undesired effects of a combinatorial treatment for spinal cord injury--transplantation of olfactory ensheathing cells and BDNF infusion to the red nucleus. Eur J Neurosci 2009; 28:1795-807. [PMID: 18973595 DOI: 10.1111/j.1460-9568.2008.06462.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Transplantations of olfactory ensheathing cells (OECs) have been reported to promote axonal regeneration and functional recovery after spinal cord injury, but have demonstrated limited growth promotion of rat rubrospinal axons after a cervical dorsolateral funiculus crush. Rubrospinal neurons undergo massive atrophy after cervical axotomy and show only transient expression of regeneration-associated genes. Cell body treatment with brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) prevents this atrophy, stimulates regeneration-associated gene expression and promotes regeneration of rubrospinal axons into peripheral nerve transplants. Here, we hypothesized that the failure of rubrospinal axons to regenerate through a bridge of OEC transplants was due to this weak intrinsic cell body response. Hence, we combined BDNF treatment of rubrospinal neurons with transplantation of highly enriched OECs derived from the nasal mucosa and assessed axonal regeneration as well as behavioral changes after a cervical dorsolateral funiculus crush. Each treatment alone as well as their combination prevented the dieback of the rubrospinal axons, but none of them promoted rubrospinal regeneration beyond the lesion/transplantation site. Motor performance in a food-pellet reaching test and forelimb usage during vertical exploration (cylinder test) were more impaired after combining transplantation of OECs with BDNF treatment. This impaired motor performance correlated with lowered sensory thresholds in animals receiving the combinatorial therapy - which were not seen with each treatment alone. Only this combinatorial treatment group showed enhanced sprouting of calcitonin gene-related peptide-positive axons rostral to the lesion site. Hence, some combinatorial treatments, such as OECs with BDNF, may have undesired effects in the injured spinal cord.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frederic Bretzner
- ICORD (International Collaboration On Repair Discoveries), Department of Zoology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
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44
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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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Bariohay B, Tardivel C, Pio J, Jean A, Félix B. BDNF-TrkB signaling interacts with the GABAergic system to inhibit rhythmic swallowing in the rat. Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol 2008; 295:R1050-9. [DOI: 10.1152/ajpregu.90407.2008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) acts as an anorexigenic factor in the dorsal vagal complex (DVC) of the adult rat brain stem. The DVC contains the premotoneurons controlling swallowing, a motor component of feeding behavior. Although rats with transected midbrain do not seek out food, they are able to swallow and to ingest food. Because BDNF and tropomyosin-related kinase B (TrkB) receptors are expressed in the DVC, this study hypothesized that BDNF could modify the activity of premotoneurons involved in swallowing. Repetitive electrical stimulation of the superior laryngeal nerve (SLN) induces rhythmic swallowing that can be recorded with electromyographic electrodes inserted in sublingual muscles. We show that a microinjection of BDNF in the swallowing network induced a rapid, transient, and dose-dependant inhibition of rhythmic swallowing. This BDNF effect appeared to be mediated via TrkB activation, since it no longer occurred when TrkB receptors were antagonized by K-252a. Interestingly, swallowing was inhibited when subthreshold doses of BDNF and GABA were coinjected, suggesting a synergistic interaction between these two signaling substances. Moreover, BDNF no longer had an inhibitory effect on swallowing when coinjected with bicuculline, a GABAA receptor antagonist. This blockade of BDNF inhibitory effect on swallowing was reversible, since it reappeared when BDNF was injected 15 min after bicuculline. Finally, we show that stimulation of SLN induced a decrease in BDNF protein within the DVC. Together, our results strongly suggest that BDNF inhibits swallowing via modulation of the GABAergic signaling within the central pattern generator of swallowing.
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Soril LJ, Ramer LM, McPhail LT, Kaan TK, Ramer MS. Spinal brain-derived neurotrophic factor governs neuroplasticity and recovery from cold-hypersensitivity following dorsal rhizotomy. Pain 2008; 138:98-110. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pain.2007.11.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2007] [Revised: 11/07/2007] [Accepted: 11/19/2007] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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47
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Sarchielli P, Nardi K, Mancini ML, Corbelli I, Tambasco N, Chiasserini D, Calabresi P. Nerve growth factor and brain-derived neurotrophic factor: potential targets for migraine treatment? Expert Opin Ther Pat 2008. [DOI: 10.1517/13543776.18.7.705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
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48
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Merighi A, Bardoni R, Salio C, Lossi L, Ferrini F, Prandini M, Zonta M, Gustincich S, Carmignoto G. Presynaptic functional trkB receptors mediate the release of excitatory neurotransmitters from primary afferent terminals in lamina II (substantia gelatinosa) of postnatal rat spinal cord. Dev Neurobiol 2008; 68:457-75. [PMID: 18172890 DOI: 10.1002/dneu.20605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
A subset of primary sensory neurons produces BDNF, which is implicated in control of nociceptive neurotransmission. We previously localized full-length trkB receptors on their terminals within lamina II. To functionally study these receptors, we here employed patch-clamp recordings, calcium imaging and immunocytochemistry on slices from 8-12 days post-natal rats. In this preparation, BDNF (100-500 ng/mL) enhances the release of sensory neurotransmitters (glutamate, substance P, CGRP) in lamina II by acting on trkB receptors expressed by primary afferent fibers of the peptidergic nociceptive type (PN-PAFs). Effect was blocked by trk antagonist K252a or anti-trkB antibody clone 47. A pre-synaptic mechanism was demonstrated after (i) patch-clamp recordings where the neurotrophin induced a significant increase in frequency, but not amplitude, of AMPA-mediated mEPSCs, (ii) real time calcium imaging, where sustained application of BDNF evoked an intense response in up to 57% lamina II neurons with a significant frequency rise. Antagonists of ionotropic glutamate receptors and NK(1) receptors completely inhibited the calcium response to BDNF. Reduction of CGRP (a specific marker of PN-PAFs) and substance P content in dorsal horn following BDNF preincubation, and analysis of the calcium response after depletion with capsaicin, confirmed that the neurotrophin presynaptically enhanced neurotransmitter release from PN-PAFs. This is the first demonstration that trkB receptors expressed by PN-PAF terminals in lamina II are functional during postnatal development. Implications of this finding are discussed considering that BDNF can be released by these same terminals and microglia, a fraction of which (as shown here) contains BDNF also in unactivated state.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adalberto Merighi
- Dipartimento di Morfofisiologia Veterinaria, Università di Torino, Via Leonardo da Vinci 44, 10095 Grugliasco, Italy.
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49
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Takagi K, Okuda-Ashitaka E, Mabuchi T, Katano T, Ohnishi T, Matsumura S, Ohnaka M, Kaneko S, Abe T, Hirata T, Fujiwara S, Minami T, Ito S. Involvement of stem cell factor and its receptor tyrosine kinase c-kit in pain regulation. Neuroscience 2008; 153:1278-88. [PMID: 18423881 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2008.02.073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2007] [Revised: 02/21/2008] [Accepted: 02/29/2008] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The c-kit receptor tyrosine kinase is expressed in a subpopulation of small- and medium-sized neurons of the dorsal root ganglia (DRG) and in the superficial layer of the spinal cord. Stem cell factor (SCF), a ligand of the c-kit receptor, induces neurite outgrowth from DRG and supports the survival of c-kit-expressing neurons. To clarify the possible function of the SCF/c-kit receptor system in the adult animal, we investigated the expression of c-kit receptor in the spinal cord and DRG in relation to pain by using H2C7, a newly developed anti-c-kit monoclonal antibody. S.c. and intrathecal injection of SCF markedly reduced the paw withdrawal threshold to mechanical stimuli and intrathecal SCF at 10 pg maximally induced mechanical allodynia in conscious mice. Intrathecal SCF also reduced the paw withdrawal latency to heat stimuli significantly but transiently. The c-kit receptor was co-expressed in 58.4% of calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) -positive, but only 5.1% of isolectin B4-positive, DRG neurons. In the spinal cord, the c-kit receptor was detected in the superficial layer of the dorsal horn and co-localized there with CGRP in central terminals of DRG neurons. Selective elimination of unmyelinated C-fibers by neonatal capsaicin treatment resulted in marked reduction of the c-kit receptor and CGRP expression in the superficial layer of the spinal cord. Cell-size profiles showed that c-kit receptor expression was significantly up-regulated and down-regulated in medium-sized DRG neurons after neonatal capsaicin treatment and nerve injury, respectively. These results suggest that the c-kit receptor is mainly expressed in peptidergic small-sized DRG neurons and may be involved in pain regulation both peripherally and centrally.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Takagi
- Department of Medical Chemistry, Kansai Medical University, 10-15 Fumizono, Moriguchi, Japan
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50
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Ren K, Dubner R. Pain facilitation and activity-dependent plasticity in pain modulatory circuitry: role of BDNF-TrkB signaling and NMDA receptors. Mol Neurobiol 2008; 35:224-35. [PMID: 17917111 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-007-0028-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2006] [Revised: 11/30/1999] [Accepted: 01/08/2007] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Pain modulatory circuitry in the brainstem exhibits considerable synaptic plasticity. The increased peripheral neuronal barrage after injury activates spinal projection neurons that then activate multiple chemical mediators including glutamatergic neurons at the brainstem level, leading to an increased synaptic strength and facilitatory output. It is not surprising that a well-established regulator of synaptic plasticity, brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), contributes to the mechanisms of descending pain facilitation. After tissue injury, BDNF and TrkB signaling in the brainstem circuitry is rapidly activated. Through the intracellular signaling cascade that involves phospholipase C, inositol trisphosphate, protein kinase C, and nonreceptor protein tyrosine kinases; N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors are phosphorylated, descending facilitatory drive is initiated, and behavioral hyperalgesia follows. The synaptic plasticity observed in the pain pathways shares much similarity with more extensively studied forms of synaptic plasticity such as long-term potentiation (LTP) and long-term depression (LTD), which typically express NMDA receptor dependency and regulation by trophic factors. However, LTP and LTD are experimental phenomena whose relationship to functional states of learning and memory has been difficult to prove. Although mechanisms of synaptic plasticity in pain pathways have typically not been related to LTP and LTD, pain pathways have an advantage as a model system for synaptic modifications as there are many well-established models of persistent pain with clear measures of the behavioral phenotype. Further studies will elucidate cellular and molecular mechanisms of pain sensitization and further our understanding of principles of central nervous system plasticity and responsiveness to environmental challenge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ke Ren
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Dental School & Program in Neuroscience, University of Maryland, 650 W. Baltimore St., Baltimore, MD 21201-1586, USA.
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