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Martz J, Shelton MA, Langen TJ, Srinivasan S, Seney ML, Kentner AC. Peripubertal antagonism of corticotropin-releasing factor receptor 1 results in sustained, sex-specific changes in behavioral plasticity and the transcriptomic profile of the amygdala. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.08.14.607957. [PMID: 39185241 PMCID: PMC11343213 DOI: 10.1101/2024.08.14.607957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/27/2024]
Abstract
Peripuberty is a significant period of neurodevelopment with long-lasting effects on the brain and behavior. Blocking type 1 corticotropin-releasing factor receptors (CRFR1) in neonatal and peripubertal rats attenuates detrimental effects of early-life stress on neural plasticity, behavior, and stress hormone action, long after exposure to the drug has ended. CRFR1 antagonism can also impact neural and behavioral development in the absence of stressful stimuli, suggesting sustained alterations under baseline conditions. To investigate this further, we administered a CRFR1 antagonist (CRFR1a), R121919, to young adolescent male and female rats across 4 days. Following each treatment, rats were tested for locomotion, social behavior, mechanical allodynia, or PPI of the acoustic startle reflex. Acute CRFR1 blockade immediately reduced PPI in peripubertal males, but not females. In adulthood, each assay was repeated without CRFR1a exposure to test for long-term effects of the adolescent treatment, with males continuing to experience deficits in PPI, while females displayed altered locomotion, PPI, and social behavior. The amygdala was collected to measure long- term effects on gene expression in pathways related to neural plasticity and neurodevelopmental disorders. Relative expression of cannabinoid type 1 receptors (CB1R), which mediate sensorimotor and HPA function, was also measured. In the adult amygdala, peripubertal CRFR1a induced alterations in pathways related to neural plasticity and stress in males and lower expression of CB1R protein in females. Understanding how acute exposure to neuropharmacological agents can have sustained impacts on brain and behavior, in the absence of further exposures, has important clinical implications for adolescent psychiatric treatment protocols.
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Brockway DF, Crowley NA. Emerging pharmacological targets for alcohol use disorder. Alcohol 2024:S0741-8329(24)00101-0. [PMID: 39069210 DOI: 10.1016/j.alcohol.2024.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2024] [Revised: 06/27/2024] [Accepted: 07/24/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024]
Abstract
Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) remains a challenging condition with limited effective treatment options; however new technology in drug delivery and advancements in pharmacology have paved the way for discovery of novel therapeutic targets. This review explores emerging pharmacological targets that offer new options for the management of AUD, focusing on the potential of somatostatin (SST), vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP), glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), nociceptin (NOP), and neuropeptide S (NPS). These targets have been selected based on recent advancements in preclinical and clinical research, which suggest their significant roles in modulating alcohol consumption and related behaviors. SST dampens cortical circuits, and targeting both the SST neurons and the SST peptide itself presents promise for treating AUD and various related comorbidities. VIP neurons are modulated by alcohol and targeting the VIP system presents an unexplored avenue for addressing alcohol exposure at various stages of development. GLP-1 interacts with the dopaminergic reward system and reduces alcohol intake. Nociceptin modulates mesolimbic circuitry and agonism and antagonism of nociceptin receptor offers a complex but promising approach to reducing alcohol consumption. NPS stands out for its anxiolytic-like effects, particularly relevant for the anxiety associated with AUD. This review aims to synthesize the current understanding of these targets, highlighting their potential in developing more effective and personalized AUD therapies, and underscores the importance of continued research in identifying and validating novel targets for treatment of AUD and comorbid conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dakota F Brockway
- Department of Biology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA.
| | - Nicole A Crowley
- Department of Biology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA.
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3
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Bertagna NB, Wilson L, Bailey CK, Cruz FC, Albrechet-Souza L, Wills TA. Long-lasting mechanical hypersensitivity and CRF receptor type-1 neuron activation in the BNST following adolescent ethanol exposure. ALCOHOL, CLINICAL & EXPERIMENTAL RESEARCH 2024; 48:48-57. [PMID: 38206283 PMCID: PMC10784637 DOI: 10.1111/acer.15228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2023] [Revised: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adolescent alcohol use can produce long-lasting alterations in brain function, potentially leading to adverse health outcomes in adulthood. Emerging evidence suggests that chronic alcohol use can increase pain sensitivity or exacerbate existing pain conditions, but the potential neural mechanisms underlying these effects require further investigation. Here, we evaluate the impact of chronic ethanol vapor on mechanical sensitivity over the course of acute and protracted withdrawal in adolescent and adult male and female mice, and its potential association with alterations in corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) signaling within the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BNST). METHODS Adolescent and adult male and female mice underwent intermittent ethanol vapor exposure on 4 days/week for 2 weeks. Mechanical thresholds were evaluated 5 h and 7, 14, 21, and 28 d after cessation of ethanol exposure using the von Frey test. For mice with a history of adolescent ethanol exposure, brains were collected for in situ RNAscope processing after the final test. Messenger RNA expression of c-Fos, Crfr1, and Crf in the BNST subregions was examined. RESULTS Exposure to intermittent ethanol vapor induced persistent mechanical hypersensitivity during withdrawal in both adolescent and adult mice. Notably, the effect was more transient in mice exposed to ethanol during adulthood, resolving by day 28 after ethanol exposure. Furthermore, both male and female mice with a history of adolescent ethanol exposure exhibited increased activation of CRF receptor type 1 (CRFR1) neurons within the dorsolateral BNST. CONCLUSIONS Our results support the conclusion that intermittent ethanol exposure can induce mechanical hypersensitivity, potentially through the activation of BNST CRFR1 neurons. These findings provide a basis for future studies aimed at evaluating specific subpopulations of BNST neurons and their contribution to pain in individuals with a history of alcohol use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia B. Bertagna
- Department of Cell Biology & Anatomy, School of Medicine, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, USA
- Department of Pharmacology, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Lisa Wilson
- Department of Cell Biology & Anatomy, School of Medicine, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, USA
- Alcohol & Drug Center of Excellence, School of Medicine, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Connor K. Bailey
- Department of Cell Biology & Anatomy, School of Medicine, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Fabio C. Cruz
- Department of Pharmacology, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Lucas Albrechet-Souza
- Department of Cell Biology & Anatomy, School of Medicine, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, USA
- Alcohol & Drug Center of Excellence, School of Medicine, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Tiffany A. Wills
- Department of Cell Biology & Anatomy, School of Medicine, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, USA
- Alcohol & Drug Center of Excellence, School of Medicine, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, USA
- Neuroscience Center of Excellence, School of Medicine, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, USA
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4
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Al-Omari A, Kecskés M, Gaszner B, Biró-Sütő T, Fazekas B, Berta G, Kuzma M, Pintér E, Kormos V. Functionally active TRPA1 ion channel is downregulated in peptidergic neurons of the Edinger-Westphal nucleus upon acute alcohol exposure. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 10:1046559. [PMID: 36704197 PMCID: PMC9872022 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.1046559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: The centrally projecting Edinger-Westphal nucleus (EWcp) contributes to the control of alcohol consumption by its urocortin 1 (UCN1) and cocaine- and amphetamine-regulated transcript (CART) co-expressing peptidergic neurons. Our group recently showed that the urocortinergic centrally projecting EWcp is the primary seat of central nervous system transient receptor potential ankyrin 1 (TRPA1) cation channel mRNA expression. Here, we hypothesized that alcohol and its metabolites, that pass through the blood-brain barrier, may influence the function of urocortinergic cells in centrally projecting EWcp by activating TRPA1 ion channels. We aimed to examine the functional activity of TRPA1 in centrally projecting EWcp and its possible role in a mouse model of acute alcohol exposure. Methods: Electrophysiological measurements were performed on acute brain slices of C57BL/6J male mice containing the centrally projecting EWcp to prove the functional activity of TRPA1 using a selective, potent, covalent agonist JT010. Male TRPA1 knockout (KO) and wildtype (WT) mice were compared with each other in the morphological studies upon acute alcohol treatment. In both genotypes, half of the animals was treated intraperitoneally with 1 g/kg 6% ethanol vs. physiological saline-injected controls. Transcardial perfusion was performed 2 h after the treatment. In the centrally projecting EWcp area, FOS immunohistochemistry was performed to assess neuronal activation. TRPA1, CART, and urocortin 1 mRNA expression as well as urocortin 1 and CART peptide content was semi-quantified by RNAscope in situ hybridization combined with immunofluorescence. Results: JT010 activated TRPA1 channels of the urocortinergic cells in acute brain slices. Alcohol treatment resulted in a significant FOS activation in both genotypes. Alcohol decreased the Trpa1 mRNA expression in WT mice. The assessment of urocortin 1 peptide immunoreactivity revealed lower basal urocortin 1 in KO mice compared to WTs. The urocortin 1 peptide content was affected genotype-dependently by alcohol: the peptide content decreased in WTs while it increased in KO mice. Alcohol exposure influenced neither CART and urocortin 1 mRNA expression nor the centrally projecting EWcp/CART peptide content. Conclusion: We proved the presence of functional TRPA1 receptors on urocortin 1 neurons of the centrally projecting EWcp. Decreased Trpa1 mRNA expression upon acute alcohol treatment, associated with reduced neuronal urocortin 1 peptide content suggesting that this cation channel may contribute to the regulation of the urocortin 1 release.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ammar Al-Omari
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Centre for Neuroscience, Szentágothai Research Centre, Medical School and Molecular Pharmacology Research Group, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Miklós Kecskés
- Medical School, Institute of Physiology, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Balázs Gaszner
- Department of Anatomy, Centre for Neuroscience, Medical School and Research Group for Mood Disorders, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Tünde Biró-Sütő
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Centre for Neuroscience, Szentágothai Research Centre, Medical School and Molecular Pharmacology Research Group, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Balázs Fazekas
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Centre for Neuroscience, Szentágothai Research Centre, Medical School and Molecular Pharmacology Research Group, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Gergely Berta
- Department of Medical Biology, Medical School, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Mónika Kuzma
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Medical School, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Erika Pintér
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Centre for Neuroscience, Szentágothai Research Centre, Medical School and Molecular Pharmacology Research Group, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Viktória Kormos
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Centre for Neuroscience, Szentágothai Research Centre, Medical School and Molecular Pharmacology Research Group, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary
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Fischler PV, Soyka M, Seifritz E, Mutschler J. Off-label and investigational drugs in the treatment of alcohol use disorder: A critical review. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:927703. [PMID: 36263121 PMCID: PMC9574013 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.927703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2022] [Accepted: 06/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Compounds known to be successful in the treatment of alcohol use disorder include the aversive agent, Disulfiram, the glutamatergic NMDA receptor antagonist, Acamprosate, and the opioid receptor antagonists, Naltrexone and Nalmefene. Although all four are effective in maintaining abstinence or reduction of alcohol consumption, only a small percentage of patients receive pharmacological treatment. In addition, many other medications have been investigated for their therapeutic potential in the treatment of alcohol use disorder. In this review we summarize and compare Baclofen, Gabapentin, Topiramate, Ondansetron, Varenicline, Aripiprazole, Quetiapine, Clozapine, Antidepressants, Lithium, Neuropeptide Y, Neuropeptide S, Corticotropin-releasing factor antagonists, Oxytocin, PF-05190457, Memantine, Ifenprodil, Samidorphan, Ondelopran, ABT-436, SSR149415, Mifepristone, Ibudilast, Citicoline, Rimonabant, Surinabant, AM4113 and Gamma-hydroxybutyrate While some have shown promising results in the treatment of alcohol use disorder, others have disappointed and should be excluded from further investigation. Here we discuss the most promising results and highlight medications that deserve further preclinical or clinical study. Effective, patient-tailored treatment will require greater understanding provided by many more preclinical and clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pascal Valentin Fischler
- Department for Gynecology and Obstetrics, Women’s Clinic Lucerne, Cantonal Hospital of Lucerne, Lucerne, Switzerland
- *Correspondence: Pascal Valentin Fischler,
| | - Michael Soyka
- Psychiatric Hospital University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Erich Seifritz
- Director of the Clinic for Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Psychiatric University Clinic Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
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Dilly GA, Kittleman CW, Kerr TM, Messing RO, Mayfield RD. Cell-type specific changes in PKC-delta neurons of the central amygdala during alcohol withdrawal. Transl Psychiatry 2022; 12:289. [PMID: 35859068 PMCID: PMC9300707 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-022-02063-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2022] [Revised: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The central amygdala (CeA) contains a diverse population of cells, including multiple subtypes of GABAergic neurons, along with glia and epithelial cells. Specific CeA cell types have been shown to affect alcohol consumption in animal models of dependence and may be involved in negative affect during alcohol withdrawal. We used single-nuclei RNA sequencing to determine cell-type specificity of differential gene expression in the CeA induced by alcohol withdrawal. Cells within the CeA were classified using unbiased clustering analyses and identified based on the expression of known marker genes. Differential gene expression analysis was performed on each identified CeA cell-type. It revealed differential gene expression in astrocytes and GABAergic neurons associated with alcohol withdrawal. GABAergic neurons were further subclassified into 13 clusters of cells. Analyzing transcriptomic responses in these subclusters revealed that alcohol exposure induced multiple differentially expressed genes in one subtype of CeA GABAergic neurons, the protein kinase C delta (PKCδ) expressing neurons. These results suggest that PKCδ neurons in the CeA may be uniquely sensitive to the effects of alcohol exposure and identify a novel population of cells in CeA associated with alcohol withdrawal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geoffrey A. Dilly
- grid.89336.370000 0004 1936 9924Institute for Neuroscience, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712 USA ,grid.89336.370000 0004 1936 9924Department of Neuroscience, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712 USA ,grid.89336.370000 0004 1936 9924Waggoner Center for Alcohol and Addiction Research, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712 USA ,grid.89336.370000 0004 1936 9924Department of Neurology, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712 USA
| | - Cory W. Kittleman
- grid.89336.370000 0004 1936 9924Department of Neuroscience, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712 USA
| | - Tony M. Kerr
- grid.89336.370000 0004 1936 9924Department of Neuroscience, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712 USA ,grid.89336.370000 0004 1936 9924Waggoner Center for Alcohol and Addiction Research, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712 USA ,grid.89336.370000 0004 1936 9924Department of Neurology, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712 USA ,grid.89336.370000 0004 1936 9924College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712 USA
| | - Robert O. Messing
- grid.89336.370000 0004 1936 9924Institute for Neuroscience, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712 USA ,grid.89336.370000 0004 1936 9924Department of Neuroscience, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712 USA ,grid.89336.370000 0004 1936 9924Waggoner Center for Alcohol and Addiction Research, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712 USA ,grid.89336.370000 0004 1936 9924Department of Neurology, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712 USA ,grid.89336.370000 0004 1936 9924College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712 USA
| | - R. Dayne Mayfield
- grid.89336.370000 0004 1936 9924Institute for Neuroscience, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712 USA ,grid.89336.370000 0004 1936 9924Department of Neuroscience, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712 USA ,grid.89336.370000 0004 1936 9924Waggoner Center for Alcohol and Addiction Research, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712 USA
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7
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Lichlyter DA, Krumm ZA, Golde TA, Doré S. Role of CRF and the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis in stroke: revisiting temporal considerations and targeting a new generation of therapeutics. FEBS J 2022; 290:1986-2010. [PMID: 35108458 DOI: 10.1111/febs.16380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2021] [Revised: 12/10/2021] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Ischaemic neurovascular stroke represents a leading cause of death in the developed world. Preclinical and human epidemiological evidence implicates the corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) family of neuropeptides as mediators of acute neurovascular injury pathology. Preclinical investigations of the role of CRF, CRF receptors and CRF-dependent activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis have pointed toward a tissue-specific and temporal relationship between activation of these pathways and physiological outcomes. Based on the literature, the major phases of ischaemic stroke aetiology may be separated into an acute phase in which CRF and anti-inflammatory stress signalling are beneficial and a chronic phase in which these contribute to neural degeneration, toxicity and apoptotic signalling. Significant gaps in knowledge remain regarding the pathway, temporality and systemic impact of CRF signalling and stress biology in neurovascular injury progression. Heterogeneity among experimental designs poses a challenge to defining the apparent reciprocal relationship between neurological injury and stress metabolism. Despite these challenges, it is our opinion that the elucidated temporality may be best matched with an antibody against CRF with a half-life of days to weeks as opposed to minutes to hours as with small-molecule CRF receptor antagonists. This state-of-the-art review will take a multipronged approach to explore the expected potential benefit of a CRF antibody by modulating CRF and corticotropin-releasing factor receptor 1 signalling, glucocorticoids and autonomic nervous system activity. Additionally, this review compares the modulation of CRF and HPA axis activity in neuropsychiatric diseases and their counterpart outcomes post-stroke and assess lessons learned from antibody therapies in neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel A Lichlyter
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Florida College of Medicine, Center for Translational Research in Neurodegenerative Disease, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Zachary A Krumm
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Florida College of Medicine, Center for Translational Research in Neurodegenerative Disease, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Todd A Golde
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Florida College of Medicine, Center for Translational Research in Neurodegenerative Disease, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Sylvain Doré
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Florida College of Medicine, Center for Translational Research in Neurodegenerative Disease, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA.,Department of Neuroscience, University of Florida College of Medicine, Center for Translational Research in Neurodegenerative Disease, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA.,Departments of Neurology, Psychiatry, Pharmaceutics, McKnight Brain Institute, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, FL, USA
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8
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Curley DE, Webb AE, Sheffler DJ, Haass-Koffler CL. Corticotropin Releasing Factor Binding Protein as a Novel Target to Restore Brain Homeostasis: Lessons Learned From Alcohol Use Disorder Research. Front Behav Neurosci 2021; 15:786855. [PMID: 34912198 PMCID: PMC8667027 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2021.786855] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Stress is well-known to contribute to the development of many psychiatric illnesses including alcohol and substance use disorder (AUD and SUD). The deleterious effects of stress have also been implicated in the acceleration of biological age, and age-related neurodegenerative disease. The physio-pathology of stress is regulated by the corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) system, the upstream component of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. Extensive literature has shown that dysregulation of the CRF neuroendocrine system contributes to escalation of alcohol consumption and, similarly, chronic alcohol consumption contributes to disruption of the stress system. The CRF system also represents the central switchboard for regulating homeostasis, and more recent studies have found that stress and aberrations in the CRF pathway are implicated in accelerated aging and age-related neurodegenerative disease. Corticotropin releasing factor binding protein (CRFBP) is a secreted glycoprotein distributed in peripheral tissues and in specific brain regions. It neutralizes the effects of CRF by sequestering free CRF, but may also possess excitatory function by interacting with CRF receptors. CRFBP’s dual role in influencing CRF bioavailability and CRF receptor signaling has been shown to have a major part in the HPA axis response. Therefore, CRFBP may represent a valuable target to treat stress-related illness, including: development of novel medications to treat AUD and restore homeostasis in the aging brain. This narrative review focuses on molecular mechanisms related to the role of CRFBP in the progression of addictive and psychiatric disorders, biological aging, and age-related neurodegenerative disease. We provide an overview of recent studies investigating modulation of this pathway as a potential therapeutic target for AUD and age-related neurodegenerative disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dallece E Curley
- Center for Alcohol and Addiction Studies, Brown University, Providence, RI, United States.,Neuroscience Graduate Program, Department of Neuroscience, Brown University, Providence, RI, United States
| | - Ashley E Webb
- Department of Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, and Biochemistry, Brown University, Providence, RI, United States.,Carney Institute for Brain Science, Brown University, Providence, RI, United States
| | - Douglas J Sheffler
- Cell and Molecular Biology of Cancer Program, Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, La Jolla, CA, United States.,Conrad Prebys Center for Chemical Genomics, Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Carolina L Haass-Koffler
- Center for Alcohol and Addiction Studies, Brown University, Providence, RI, United States.,Carney Institute for Brain Science, Brown University, Providence, RI, United States.,Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, RI, United States.,Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences, School of Public Health, Brown University, Providence, RI, United States
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9
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Rouzer SK, Diaz MR. Factors of sex and age dictate the regulation of GABAergic activity by corticotropin-releasing factor receptor 1 in the medial sub-nucleus of the central amygdala. Neuropharmacology 2021; 189:108530. [PMID: 33741404 PMCID: PMC10538372 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2021.108530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2020] [Revised: 03/05/2021] [Accepted: 03/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Adolescents are phenotypically characterized with hyper-sensitivity to stress and inappropriate response to stress-inducing events. Despite behavioral distinctions from adults, investigations of developmental shifts in the function of stress peptide corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) are generally limited. Rodent models have determined that CRF receptor 1 (CRFR1) activation within the central amygdala is associated with a stress response and induces increased GABAergic synaptic neurotransmission within adult males. To investigate age- and sex-specific function of this system, we performed whole-cell patch clamp electrophysiology in brain slices from naive adolescent (postnatal days (P) 40-49) and adult (>P70) male and female Sprague Dawley rats to assess GABAergic activity in the medial central amygdala (CeM). Our results indicate a dynamic influence of age and sex on neuronal excitability within this region, as well as basal spontaneous and miniature (m) inhibitory post-synaptic currents (IPSCs) in the CeM. In addition to replicating prior findings of CRFR1-regulated increases in mIPSC frequency in adult males, we found that the selective CRFR1 agonist, Stressin-1, attenuated mIPSC frequency in adolescent males, at a concentration that did not produce an effect in adult males. Importantly, this age-specific distinction was absent in females, as Stressin-1 attenuated mIPSC frequency in both adolescent and adult females. Finally, an increase in mIPSC frequency in response to the CRF1R antagonist, NBI 35965, was observed only in the CeM of adult males. Together, these data emphasize the robust influence of age and sex on neurophysiological function of a brain region involved in the production of the stress response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siara Kate Rouzer
- Department of Psychology, Center for Development and Behavioral Neuroscience, Binghamton University, Binghamton, NY, 13902, United States; Developmental Exposure Alcohol Research Center, Binghamton University, Binghamton, NY, 13902, United States
| | - Marvin R Diaz
- Department of Psychology, Center for Development and Behavioral Neuroscience, Binghamton University, Binghamton, NY, 13902, United States; Developmental Exposure Alcohol Research Center, Binghamton University, Binghamton, NY, 13902, United States.
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10
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Walker LC. A balancing act: the role of pro- and anti-stress peptides within the central amygdala in anxiety and alcohol use disorders. J Neurochem 2021; 157:1615-1643. [PMID: 33450069 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.15301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2020] [Revised: 12/18/2020] [Accepted: 01/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The central nucleus of the amygdala (CeA) is widely implicated as a structure that integrates both appetitive and aversive stimuli. While intrinsic CeA microcircuits primarily consist of GABAergic neurons that regulate amygdala output, a notable feature of the CeA is the heterogeneity of neuropeptides and neuropeptide/neuromodulator receptors that it expresses. There is growing interest in the role of the CeA in mediating psychopathologies, including stress and anxiety states and their interactions with alcohol use disorders. Within the CeA, neuropeptides and neuromodulators often exert pro- or anti- stress actions, which can influence anxiety and alcohol associated behaviours. In turn, alcohol use can cause adaptions within the CeA, which may render an individual more vulnerable to stress which is a major trigger of relapse to alcohol seeking. This review examines the neurocircuitry, neurochemical phenotypes and how pro- and anti-stress peptide systems act within the CeA to regulate anxiety and alcohol seeking, focusing on preclinical observations from animal models. Furthermore, literature exploring the targeting of genetically defined populations or neuronal ensembles and the role of the CeA in mediating sex differences in stress x alcohol interactions are explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leigh C Walker
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Parkville, Vic, Australia.,Florey Department of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Vic, Australia
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11
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Shamakina IY, Shagiakhmetov FS, Anokhin PK, Kohan VS, Davidova TV. [The role of nociceptin in opioid regulation of brain functions]. BIOMEDITSINSKAIA KHIMIIA 2021; 67:5-16. [PMID: 33645518 DOI: 10.18097/pbmc20216701005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
This review discusses our current knowledge on the nociceptin/orphanin (N/OFQ) system regarding its role in regulation of brain functions. Nociceptin receptor (NOPr) was identified in 1994 [Bunzow et al., 1994; Mollereau et al., 1994]. In 1995 a 17 amino acid endogenous peptide was found to be the high-affinity ligand for the NOPr [Reinscheid et al., 1995]. N/OFQ has a broad spectrum of activity and can act as on opioid-like as well as an anti-opioid peptide. Considering high level of N/OFQ and NOPr mRNA expression in the limbic brain regions, the N/OFQ/NOP system is suggested to be involved in regulation of emotions, resward, pain sensitivity, stress responsibility, sexual behavior, aggression, drug abuse and addiction. However it is still not well understood whether an increased vulnerability to drugs of abuse may be associated with dysregulation of N/OFQ/NOP system. Current review further highlights a need for further research on N/OFQ/NOP system as it could have clinical utility for substance abuse, depression, and anxiety pharmacotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Yu Shamakina
- V.P. Serbsky National Medical Research Center on Psychiatry and Addiction, Moscow, Russia
| | | | - P K Anokhin
- V.P. Serbsky National Medical Research Center on Psychiatry and Addiction, Moscow, Russia
| | - V S Kohan
- V.P. Serbsky National Medical Research Center on Psychiatry and Addiction, Moscow, Russia
| | - T V Davidova
- The Institute of General Pathology and Pathophysiology, Moscow, Russia
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12
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Cucinello-Ragland JA, Edwards S. Neurobiological aspects of pain in the context of alcohol use disorder. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF NEUROBIOLOGY 2020; 157:1-29. [PMID: 33648668 DOI: 10.1016/bs.irn.2020.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Alcohol is an effective and widely utilized analgesic. However, the chronic use of alcohol can actually facilitate nociceptive sensitivity over time, a condition known as hyperalgesia. Excessive and uncontrollable alcohol drinking is also a hallmark feature of alcohol use disorder (AUD). Both AUD and chronic pain are typically accompanied by negative affective states that may underlie reinforcement mechanisms contributing to AUD maintenance or progression. Frequent utilization of alcohol to relieve pain in individuals suffering from AUD or other chronic pain conditions may thus represent a powerful negative reinforcement construct. This chapter will describe ties between alcohol-mediated pain relief and potential exacerbation of AUD. We describe neurobiological systems engaged in alcohol analgesia as well as systems recruited in the development and maintenance of AUD and hyperalgesia. Although few effective therapies exist for either chronic pain or AUD, the common interaction of these conditions will likely lead the way for promising new discoveries of more effective and even simultaneous treatment of AUD and co-morbid hyperalgesia. An abundance of neurobiological findings from multiple laboratories has implicated a potentiation of central amygdala (CeA) signaling in both pain and AUD, and these data also suggest that attenuation of stress-related systems (including corticotropin-releasing factor, vasopressin, and glucocorticoid receptor activity) would be particularly effective and comprehensive therapeutic strategies targeting the critical intersection of somatic and motivational mechanisms driving AUD, including alcohol-induced hyperalgesia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica A Cucinello-Ragland
- Department of Physiology and Comprehensive Alcohol-HIV/AIDS Research Center, LSU Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, United States
| | - Scott Edwards
- Department of Physiology and Comprehensive Alcohol-HIV/AIDS Research Center, LSU Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, United States.
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13
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Verster JC, Arnoldy L, van de Loo AJ, Benson S, Scholey A, Stock AK. The Impact of Mood and Subjective Intoxication on Hangover Severity. J Clin Med 2020; 9:E2462. [PMID: 32752141 PMCID: PMC7465662 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9082462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2020] [Revised: 07/23/2020] [Accepted: 07/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate whether baseline mood and/or mood while drinking have an impact on alcohol hangover severity. A survey was held among N = 331 young adults (mean age = 23.6 years, range = 18-35 years). Demographics, alcohol consumption, subjective intoxication, and hangover severity were assessed for the past three days. In addition, mood (baseline, while drinking, and during hangover) was also assessed. N = 143 participants reported to be hungover on the day of assessment, N = 122 participants reported to have been hungover the previous day ('yesterday'), and N = 87 participants reported to have been hungover two days before the assessment ('2 days ago'). The analyses revealed that baseline mood and mood while drinking had no relevant effect on the amount of consumed alcohol and did not significantly contribute to hangover severity. However, hangover severity was associated with significantly increased negative affect, particularly with higher levels of subjective stress on the day of the hangover.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joris C. Verster
- Division of Pharmacology, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences (UIPS), Utrecht University, 3584CG Utrecht, The Netherlands; (J.C.V.); (L.A.); (A.J.A.E.v.d.L.)
- Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences (IRAS), Utrecht University, 3584CM Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Centre for Human Psychopharmacology, Swinburne University, Melbourne 3122, Australia; (S.B.); (A.S.)
| | - Lizanne Arnoldy
- Division of Pharmacology, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences (UIPS), Utrecht University, 3584CG Utrecht, The Netherlands; (J.C.V.); (L.A.); (A.J.A.E.v.d.L.)
- Centre for Human Psychopharmacology, Swinburne University, Melbourne 3122, Australia; (S.B.); (A.S.)
| | - Aurora J.A.E. van de Loo
- Division of Pharmacology, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences (UIPS), Utrecht University, 3584CG Utrecht, The Netherlands; (J.C.V.); (L.A.); (A.J.A.E.v.d.L.)
- Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences (IRAS), Utrecht University, 3584CM Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Sarah Benson
- Centre for Human Psychopharmacology, Swinburne University, Melbourne 3122, Australia; (S.B.); (A.S.)
| | - Andrew Scholey
- Centre for Human Psychopharmacology, Swinburne University, Melbourne 3122, Australia; (S.B.); (A.S.)
| | - Ann-Kathrin Stock
- Cognitive Neurophysiology, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, TU Dresden, Fetscherstr. 74, 01307 Dresden, Germany
- Biopsychology, Department of Psychology, School of Science, TU Dresden, Zellescher Weg 19, 01069 Dresden, Germany
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14
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Delery EC, Edwards S. Neuropeptide and cytokine regulation of pain in the context of substance use disorders. Neuropharmacology 2020; 174:108153. [PMID: 32470337 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2020.108153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2020] [Revised: 04/23/2020] [Accepted: 05/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Substance use disorders (SUDs) are frequently accompanied by affective symptoms that promote negative reinforcement mechanisms contributing to SUD maintenance or progression. Despite their widespread use as analgesics, chronic or excessive exposure to alcohol, opioids, and nicotine produces heightened nociceptive sensitivity, termed hyperalgesia. This review focuses on the contributions of neuropeptide (CRF, melanocortin, opioid peptide) and cytokine (IL-1β, TNF-α, chemokine) systems in the development and maintenance of substance-induced hyperalgesia. Few effective therapies exist for either chronic pain or SUD, and the common interaction of these disease states likely complicates their effective treatment. Here we highlight promising new discoveries as well as identify gaps in research that could lead to more effective and even simultaneous treatment of SUDs and co-morbid hyperalgesia symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth C Delery
- Department of Physiology and Comprehensive Alcohol-HIV/AIDS Research Center, LSU Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, 70112, USA
| | - Scott Edwards
- Department of Physiology and Comprehensive Alcohol-HIV/AIDS Research Center, LSU Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, 70112, USA.
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15
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Simpson S, Shankar K, Kimbrough A, George O. Role of corticotropin-releasing factor in alcohol and nicotine addiction. Brain Res 2020; 1740:146850. [PMID: 32330519 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2020.146850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2019] [Revised: 03/31/2020] [Accepted: 04/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The two most prevalent substance use disorders involve alcohol and nicotine, which are often co-abused. Robust preclinical and translational evidence indicates that individuals initiate drug use for the acute rewarding effects of the substance. The development of negative emotional states is key for the transition from recreational use to substance use disorders as subjects seek the substance to obtain relief from the negative emotional states of acute withdrawal and protracted abstinence. The neuropeptide corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) is a major regulator of the brain stress system and key in the development of negative affective states. The present review examines the role of CRF in preclinical models of alcohol and nicotine abuse and explores links between CRF and anxiety-like, dysphoria-like, and other negative affective states. Finally, the present review discusses preclinical models of nicotine and alcohol use with regard to the CRF system, advances in molecular and genetic manipulations of CRF, and the importance of examining both males and females in this field of research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sierra Simpson
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, School of Medicine, La Jolla, CA 92093, United States; Department of Neuroscience, Scripps Research, La Jolla, CA 92037, United States
| | - Kokila Shankar
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, School of Medicine, La Jolla, CA 92093, United States; Department of Neuroscience, Scripps Research, La Jolla, CA 92037, United States
| | - Adam Kimbrough
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, School of Medicine, La Jolla, CA 92093, United States
| | - Olivier George
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, School of Medicine, La Jolla, CA 92093, United States.
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16
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Neugebauer V, Mazzitelli M, Cragg B, Ji G, Navratilova E, Porreca F. Amygdala, neuropeptides, and chronic pain-related affective behaviors. Neuropharmacology 2020; 170:108052. [PMID: 32188569 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2020.108052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 110] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2019] [Revised: 03/04/2020] [Accepted: 03/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Neuropeptides play important modulatory roles throughout the nervous system, functioning as direct effectors or as interacting partners with other neuropeptide and neurotransmitter systems. Limbic brain areas involved in learning, memory and emotions are particularly rich in neuropeptides. This review will focus on the amygdala, a limbic region that plays a key role in emotional-affective behaviors and pain modulation. The amygdala is comprised of different nuclei; the basolateral (BLA) and central (CeA) nuclei and in between, the intercalated cells (ITC), have been linked to pain-related functions. A wide range of neuropeptides are found in the amygdala, particularly in the CeA, but this review will discuss those neuropeptides that have been explored for their role in pain modulation. Calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) is a key peptide in the afferent nociceptive pathway from the parabrachial area and mediates excitatory drive of CeA neurons. CeA neurons containing corticotropin releasing factor (CRF) and/or somatostatin (SOM) are a source of long-range projections and serve major output functions, but CRF also acts locally to excite neurons in the CeA and BLA. Neuropeptide S (NPS) is associated with inhibitory ITC neurons that gate amygdala output. Oxytocin and vasopressin exert opposite (inhibitory and excitatory, respectively) effects on amygdala output. The opioid system of mu, delta and kappa receptors (MOR, DOR, KOR) and their peptide ligands (β-endorphin, enkephalin, dynorphin) have complex and partially opposing effects on amygdala function. Neuropeptides therefore serve as valuable targets to regulate amygdala function in pain conditions. This article is part of the special issue on Neuropeptides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Volker Neugebauer
- Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, USA; Center of Excellence for Translational Neuroscience and Therapeutics, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, USA; Garrison Institute on Aging, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, USA.
| | - Mariacristina Mazzitelli
- Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, USA
| | - Bryce Cragg
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Guangchen Ji
- Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience, School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, USA; Center of Excellence for Translational Neuroscience and Therapeutics, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, USA
| | - Edita Navratilova
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Frank Porreca
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
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17
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Morrow AL, Boero G, Porcu P. A Rationale for Allopregnanolone Treatment of Alcohol Use Disorders: Basic and Clinical Studies. Alcohol Clin Exp Res 2020; 44:320-339. [PMID: 31782169 PMCID: PMC7018555 DOI: 10.1111/acer.14253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2019] [Accepted: 11/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
For many years, research from around the world has suggested that the neuroactive steroid (3α,5α)-3-hydroxypregnan-20-one (allopregnanolone or 3α,5α-THP) may have therapeutic potential for treatment of various symptoms of alcohol use disorders (AUDs). In this critical review, we systematically address all the evidence that supports such a suggestion, delineate the etiologies of AUDs that are addressed by treatment with allopregnanolone or its precursor pregnenolone, and the rationale for treatment of various components of the disease based on basic science and clinical evidence. This review presents a theoretical framework for understanding how endogenous steroids that regulate the effects of stress, alcohol, and the innate immune system could play a key role in both the prevention and the treatment of AUDs. We further discuss cautions and limitations of allopregnanolone or pregnenolone therapy with suggestions regarding the management of risk and the potential for helping millions who suffer from AUDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- A. Leslie Morrow
- Department of Psychiatry, Department of Pharmacology, Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC 27599
| | - Giorgia Boero
- Department of Psychiatry, Department of Pharmacology, Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC 27599
| | - Patrizia Porcu
- Neuroscience Institute, National Research Council of Italy (CNR), Cagliari, Italy
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18
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Neasta J, Darcq E, Jeanblanc J, Carnicella S, Ben Hamida S. GPCR and Alcohol-Related Behaviors in Genetically Modified Mice. Neurotherapeutics 2020; 17:17-42. [PMID: 31919661 PMCID: PMC7007453 DOI: 10.1007/s13311-019-00828-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) constitute the largest class of cell surface signaling receptors and regulate major neurobiological processes. Accordingly, GPCRs represent primary targets for the treatment of brain disorders. Several human genetic polymorphisms affecting GPCRs have been associated to different components of alcohol use disorder (AUD). Moreover, GPCRs have been reported to contribute to several features of alcohol-related behaviors in animal models. Besides traditional pharmacological tools, genetic-based approaches mostly aimed at deleting GPCR genes provided substantial information on how key GPCRs drive alcohol-related behaviors. In this review, we summarize the alcohol phenotypes that ensue from genetic manipulation, in particular gene deletion, of key GPCRs in rodents. We focused on GPCRs that belong to fundamental neuronal systems that have been shown as potential targets for the development of AUD treatment. Data are reviewed with particular emphasis on alcohol reward, seeking, and consumption which are behaviors that capture essential aspects of AUD. Literature survey indicates that in most cases, there is still a gap in defining the intracellular transducers and the functional crosstalk of GPCRs as well as the neuronal populations in which their signaling regulates alcohol actions. Further, the implication of only a few orphan GPCRs has been so far investigated in animal models. Combining advanced pharmacological technologies with more specific genetically modified animals and behavioral preclinical models is likely necessary to deepen our understanding in how GPCR signaling contributes to AUD and for drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jérémie Neasta
- Laboratoire de Pharmacologie, Faculté de Pharmacie, University of Montpellier, 34093, Montpellier, France
| | - Emmanuel Darcq
- Douglas Hospital Research Center, Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, 6875 Boulevard LaSalle, Montreal, Quebec, H4H 1R3, Canada
| | - Jérôme Jeanblanc
- Research Group on Alcohol and Pharmacodependences-INSERM U1247, University of Picardie Jules Verne, 80025, Amiens, France
| | - Sebastien Carnicella
- INSERM U1216, Grenoble Institut des Neurosciences (GIN), University of Grenoble Alpes, 38000, Grenoble, France
| | - Sami Ben Hamida
- Douglas Hospital Research Center, Department of Psychiatry, McGill University, 6875 Boulevard LaSalle, Montreal, Quebec, H4H 1R3, Canada.
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19
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Schreiber AL, McGinn MA, Edwards S, Gilpin NW. Predator odor stress blunts alcohol conditioned aversion. Neuropharmacology 2019; 144:82-90. [PMID: 30336151 PMCID: PMC6286202 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2018.10.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2018] [Revised: 10/03/2018] [Accepted: 10/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Alcohol use disorder is highly co-morbid with traumatic stress disorders in humans, and dually diagnosed individuals cite negative affective symptoms as a primary reason for drinking alcohol. Therefore, it is reasonable to hypothesize that traumatic stress history increases the rewarding properties and/or blunts the aversive properties of alcohol. We used a place conditioning procedure to test the rewarding/aversive properties of alcohol in adult male Wistar rats with or without a traumatic stress (i.e., predator odor exposure) history, and with or without an alcohol drinking history. Because extended amygdala regions have documented roles in stress, reward, and stress-induced changes in reward, we also tested the effect of acute alcohol on CREB phosphorylation (pCREB) and striatal-enriched protein tyrosine phosphatase (STEP) expression in central amygdala (CeA) and bed nucleus of stria terminalis (BNST). Our results show that a moderate alcohol dose (1.0 g/kg) produces conditioned place aversion (CPA) that is blunted by stress history but is not affected by alcohol drinking history, and this effect differed in pair-housed versus single-housed rats. Stress history reduced pCREB expression in BNST of rats with and without an alcohol drinking history. Finally, acute alcohol effects on pCREB and STEP expression in CeA were positively associated with preference for the alcohol-paired chamber. These data suggest that stress history reduces the aversive properties of moderate alcohol doses, and that alcohol aversion is associated with acute alcohol effects on pCREB and STEP expression in the extended amygdala.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allyson L Schreiber
- Department of Physiology, Louisiana State University Health Science Center, New Orleans, LA 70112, United States
| | - M Adrienne McGinn
- Department of Physiology, Louisiana State University Health Science Center, New Orleans, LA 70112, United States
| | - Scott Edwards
- Department of Physiology, Louisiana State University Health Science Center, New Orleans, LA 70112, United States; Neuroscience Center of Excellence, Louisiana State University Health Science Center, New Orleans, LA, 70112, United States
| | - Nicholas W Gilpin
- Department of Physiology, Louisiana State University Health Science Center, New Orleans, LA 70112, United States; Neuroscience Center of Excellence, Louisiana State University Health Science Center, New Orleans, LA, 70112, United States.
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20
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Harper KM, Knapp DJ, Criswell HE, Breese GR. Vasopressin and alcohol: a multifaceted relationship. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2018; 235:3363-3379. [PMID: 30392132 PMCID: PMC6286152 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-018-5099-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2018] [Accepted: 10/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Arginine vasopressin (VP) has been implicated in a number of neuropsychiatric disorders with an emphasis on situations where stress increased the severity of the disorder. Based on this hypothesized role for VP in neuropsychiatric disorders, much research is currently being undertaken in humans and animals to test VP as a target for treatment of a number of these disorders including alcohol abuse. OBJECTIVES To provide a summary of the literature regarding the role of VP in alcohol- and stress-related behaviors including the use of drugs that target VP in clinical trials. RESULTS Changes in various components of the VP system occur with alcohol and stress. Manipulating VP or its receptors can alter alcohol- and stress-related behaviors including tolerance to alcohol, alcohol drinking, and anxiety-like behavior. Finally, the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis response to alcohol is also altered by manipulating the VP system. However, clinical trials of VP antagonists have had mixed results. CONCLUSIONS A review of VP's involvement in alcohol's actions demonstrates that there is much to be learned about brain regions involved in VP-mediated effects on behavior. Thus, future work should focus on elucidating relevant brain regions. By using previous knowledge of the actions of VP and determining the brain regions and/or systems involved in its different behavioral effects, it may be possible to identify a specific receptor subtype target, drug treatment combination, or specific clinical contexts that may point toward a more successful treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn M Harper
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, CB #7178, Thurston Bowles Building, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599-7178, USA.
| | - Darin J Knapp
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, CB #7178, Thurston Bowles Building, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599-7178, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599-7178, USA
| | - Hugh E Criswell
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, CB #7178, Thurston Bowles Building, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599-7178, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599-7178, USA
| | - George R Breese
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, CB #7178, Thurston Bowles Building, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599-7178, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599-7178, USA
- Department of Pharmacology, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599-7178, USA
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21
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Abstract
Animal models provide rapid, inexpensive assessments of an investigational drug's therapeutic potential. Ideally, they support the plausibility of therapeutic efficacy and provide a rationale for further investigation. Here, I discuss how the absence of clear effective-ineffective categories for alcohol use disorder (AUD) medications and biases in the clinical and preclinical literature affect the development of predictive preclinical alcohol dependence (AD) models. Invoking the analogical argument concept from the philosophy of science field, I discuss how models of excessive alcohol drinking support the plausibility of clinical pharmacotherapy effects. Even though these models are not likely be completely discriminative, they are sensitive to clinically effective medications and have revealed dozens of novel medication targets. In that context, I discuss recent preclinical work on GLP-1 receptor agonists, phosphodiesterase inhibitors, glucocorticoid receptor antagonists, nociception agonists and antagonists, and CRF1 antagonists. Clinically approved medications are available for each of these drug classes. I conclude by advocating a translational approach in which drugs are evaluated highly congruent preclinical models and human laboratory studies. Once translation is established, I suggest the burden is to develop hypothesis-based therapeutic interventions maximizing the impact of the confirmed pharmacotherapeutic effects in the context of additional variables falling outside the model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark Egli
- Division of Neuroscience and Behavior, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA.
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