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Bowirrat A, Elman I, Dennen CA, Gondré-Lewis MC, Cadet JL, Khalsa J, Baron D, Soni D, Gold MS, McLaughlin TJ, Bagchi D, Braverman ER, Ceccanti M, Thanos PK, Modestino EJ, Sunder K, Jafari N, Zeine F, Badgaiyan RD, Barh D, Makale M, Murphy KT, Blum K. Neurogenetics and Epigenetics of Loneliness. Psychol Res Behav Manag 2023; 16:4839-4857. [PMID: 38050640 PMCID: PMC10693768 DOI: 10.2147/prbm.s423802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Loneliness, an established risk factor for both, mental and physical morbidity, is a mounting public health concern. However, the neurobiological mechanisms underlying loneliness-related morbidity are not yet well defined. Here we examined the role of genes and associated DNA risk polymorphic variants that are implicated in loneliness via genetic and epigenetic mechanisms and may thus point to specific therapeutic targets. Searches were conducted on PubMed, Medline, and EMBASE databases using specific Medical Subject Headings terms such as loneliness and genes, neuro- and epigenetics, addiction, affective disorders, alcohol, anti-reward, anxiety, depression, dopamine, cancer, cardiovascular, cognitive, hypodopaminergia, medical, motivation, (neuro)psychopathology, social isolation, and reward deficiency. The narrative literature review yielded recursive collections of scientific and clinical evidence, which were subsequently condensed and summarized in the following key areas: (1) Genetic Antecedents: Exploration of multiple genes mediating reward, stress, immunity and other important vital functions; (2) Genes and Mental Health: Examination of genes linked to personality traits and mental illnesses providing insights into the intricate network of interaction converging on the experience of loneliness; (3) Epigenetic Effects: Inquiry into instances of loneliness and social isolation that are driven by epigenetic methylations associated with negative childhood experiences; and (4) Neural Correlates: Analysis of loneliness-related affective states and cognitions with a focus on hypodopaminergic reward deficiency arising in the context of early life stress, eg, maternal separation, underscoring the importance of parental support early in life. Identification of the individual contributions by various (epi)genetic factors presents opportunities for the creation of innovative preventive, diagnostic, and therapeutic approaches for individuals who cope with persistent feelings of loneliness. The clinical facets and therapeutic prospects associated with the current understanding of loneliness, are discussed emphasizing the relevance of genes and DNA risk polymorphic variants in the context of loneliness-related morbidity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdalla Bowirrat
- Department of Molecular Biology, Adelson School of Medicine, Ariel University, Ariel, 40700, Israel
| | - Igor Elman
- Cambridge Health Alliance, Harvard Medical School, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA
| | - Catherine A Dennen
- Department of Family Medicine, Jefferson Health Northeast, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Marjorie C Gondré-Lewis
- Neuropsychopharmacology Laboratory, Department of Anatomy, Howard University College of Medicine, Washington, DC, 20059, USA
| | - Jean Lud Cadet
- Molecular Neuropsychiatry Research Branch, NIH National Institute on Drug Abuse, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Jag Khalsa
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Tropical Medicine, George Washington University, School of Medicine, Washington, DC, USA
| | - David Baron
- Division of Addiction Research & Education, Center for Sports, Exercise, and Mental Health, Western University of Health Sciences, Pomona, CA, 91766, USA
| | - Diwanshu Soni
- Western University Health Sciences School of Medicine, Pomona, CA, USA
| | - Mark S Gold
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Thomas J McLaughlin
- Division of Reward Deficiency Clinics, TranspliceGen Therapeutics, Inc, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Debasis Bagchi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Texas Southern University College of Pharmacy, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Eric R Braverman
- Division of Clinical Neurology, The Kenneth Blum Institute of Neurogenetics & Behavior, LLC, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Mauro Ceccanti
- Alcohol Addiction Program, Latium Region Referral Center, Sapienza University of Rome, Roma, 00185, Italy
| | - Panayotis K Thanos
- Behavioral Neuropharmacology and Neuroimaging Laboratory on Addictions, Clinical Research Institute on Addictions, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biosciences, State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, 14203, USA
- Department of Psychology, State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, 14203, USA
| | | | - Keerthy Sunder
- Karma Doctors & Karma TMS, and Suder Foundation, Palm Springs, CA, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of California, Riverside School of Medicine, Riverside, CA, USA
| | - Nicole Jafari
- Department of Human Development, California State University at Long Beach, Long Beach, CA, USA
- Division of Personalized Medicine, Cross-Cultural Research and Educational Institute, San Clemente, CA, USA
| | - Foojan Zeine
- Awareness Integration Institute, San Clemente, CA, USA
- Department of Health Science, California State University at Long Beach, Long Beach, CA, USA
| | | | - Debmalya Barh
- Centre for Genomics and Applied Gene Technology, Institute of Integrative Omics and Applied Biotechnology (IIOAB), Purba Medinipur, WB, 721172, India
- Departamento de Genética, Ecologia e Evolução, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, 31270-901, Brazil
| | - Milan Makale
- Department of Radiation Medicine and Applied Sciences, UC San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093-0819, USA
| | - Kevin T Murphy
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Kenneth Blum
- Department of Molecular Biology, Adelson School of Medicine, Ariel University, Ariel, 40700, Israel
- Division of Addiction Research & Education, Center for Sports, Exercise, and Mental Health, Western University of Health Sciences, Pomona, CA, 91766, USA
- Division of Reward Deficiency Clinics, TranspliceGen Therapeutics, Inc, Austin, TX, USA
- Division of Clinical Neurology, The Kenneth Blum Institute of Neurogenetics & Behavior, LLC, Austin, TX, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of California, Riverside School of Medicine, Riverside, CA, USA
- Division of Personalized Medicine, Cross-Cultural Research and Educational Institute, San Clemente, CA, USA
- Centre for Genomics and Applied Gene Technology, Institute of Integrative Omics and Applied Biotechnology (IIOAB), Purba Medinipur, WB, 721172, India
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Vermont School of Medicine, Burlington, VA, USA
- Institute of Psychology, ELTE Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest, Hungary
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2
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Blaine S, Fogelman N, Lacadie C, Constable T, Sinha R. Blunted neural reward response to alcohol and greater alcohol motivation in binge drinkers in a randomized clinical experiment. ALCOHOL, CLINICAL & EXPERIMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 47:1067-1078. [PMID: 37070596 PMCID: PMC10289130 DOI: 10.1111/acer.15082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2022] [Revised: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 04/07/2023] [Indexed: 04/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alcohol stimulates cerebral blood flow (CBF) in brain reward regions. However, neural processes that support sustained alcohol motivation after the first drink are not well understood. METHODS Using a novel placebo-controlled, randomized, crossover experiment, 27 individuals who binge drink (BD; 15 M, 12 F) and 25 social drinkers (SD; 15 M, 10 F) underwent a behavioral test of self-motivated alcohol consumption using an Alcohol Taste Test (ATT) involving alcoholic and nonalcoholic beer on separate days. The test was followed immediately by perfusion functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). On both days, participants then engaged in a post-scan ATT with placebo beer to assess sustained alcohol self-motivation without active alcohol effects. Linear mixed effects models were used to examine the effects of drinking group on the placebo-controlled effect of initial alcohol motivation on brain perfusion (whole brain corrected p < 0.001, cluster corrected p < 0.025) and on the relationship between placebo-controlled brain perfusion and sustained alcohol motivation. RESULTS Initial alcohol self-motivation in the alcohol relative to placebo session led to markedly decreased activation in the medial orbitofrontal cortex (OFC) and the ventral striatum in BD relative to SD, indicative of neural reward tolerance. The BD group also showed an enhanced neural response in behavioral intention regions of the supplementary motor area (SMA) and inferior frontal gyrus (IFG) regions. Moreover, there was greater sustained alcohol motivation in BD than SD in the post-scan ATT in the alcohol relative to placebo session. Correspondingly, only in BD and only in the alcohol session, lower alcohol-induced OFC response correlated with concurrent sensitized SMA response, and each predicted the subsequent sustained higher alcohol motivation in the post-scan ATT. CONCLUSIONS Alcohol-related OFC tolerance may play an important role in sustained alcohol motivation. Furthermore, both specific alcohol-related neural reward tolerance and premotor sensitization responses may contribute to escalating alcohol motivation to drive excessive alcohol intake, even in individuals without alcohol use disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Blaine
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Auburn University; Auburn, AL
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine; New Haven, CT
| | - Nia Fogelman
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine; New Haven, CT
| | - Cheryl Lacadie
- Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, Yale School of Medicine; New Haven, CT
| | - Todd Constable
- Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, Yale School of Medicine; New Haven, CT
| | - Rajita Sinha
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine; New Haven, CT
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3
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Da Y, Luo S, Tian Y. Real-Time Monitoring of Neurotransmitters in the Brain of Living Animals. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2023; 15:138-157. [PMID: 35394736 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.2c02740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Neurotransmitters, as important chemical small molecules, perform the function of neural signal transmission from cell to cell. Excess concentrations of neurotransmitters are often closely associated with brain diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease, depression, schizophrenia, and Parkinson's disease. On the other hand, the release of neurotransmitters under the induced stimulation indicates the occurrence of reward-related behaviors, including food and drug addiction. Therefore, to understand the physiological and pathological functions of neurotransmitters, especially in complex environments of the living brain, it is urgent to develop effective tools to monitor their dynamics with high sensitivity and specificity. Over the past 30 years, significant advances in electrochemical sensors and optical probes have brought new possibilities for studying neurons and neural circuits by monitoring the changes in neurotransmitters. This Review focuses on the progress in the construction of sensors for in vivo analysis of neurotransmitters in the brain and summarizes current attempts to address key issues in the development of sensors with high selectivity, sensitivity, and stability. Combined with the latest advances in technologies and methods, several strategies for sensor construction are provided for recording chemical signal changes in the complex environment of the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yifan Da
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Green Chemistry and Chemical Processes, Department of Chemistry, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University, Dongchuan Road 500, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Shihua Luo
- Department of Traumatology, Rui Jin Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Yang Tian
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Green Chemistry and Chemical Processes, Department of Chemistry, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University, Dongchuan Road 500, Shanghai 200241, China
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Goud NS, Bhattacharya A, Joshi RK, Nagaraj C, Bharath RD, Kumar P. Carbon-11: Radiochemistry and Target-Based PET Molecular Imaging Applications in Oncology, Cardiology, and Neurology. J Med Chem 2021; 64:1223-1259. [PMID: 33499603 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.0c01053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The positron emission tomography (PET) molecular imaging technique has gained its universal value as a remarkable tool for medical diagnosis and biomedical research. Carbon-11 is one of the promising radiotracers that can report target-specific information related to its pharmacology and physiology to understand the disease status. Currently, many of the available carbon-11 (t1/2 = 20.4 min) PET radiotracers are heterocyclic derivatives that have been synthesized using carbon-11 inserted different functional groups obtained from primary and secondary carbon-11 precursors. A spectrum of carbon-11 PET radiotracers has been developed against many of the upregulated and emerging targets for the diagnosis, prognosis, prediction, and therapy in the fields of oncology, cardiology, and neurology. This review focuses on the carbon-11 radiochemistry and various target-specific PET molecular imaging agents used in tumor, heart, brain, and neuroinflammatory disease imaging along with its associated pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nerella Sridhar Goud
- Department of Neuroimaging and Interventional Radiology (NIIR), National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences (NIMHANS), Bengaluru 560 029, India
| | - Ahana Bhattacharya
- Department of Neuroimaging and Interventional Radiology (NIIR), National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences (NIMHANS), Bengaluru 560 029, India
| | - Raman Kumar Joshi
- Department of Neuroimaging and Interventional Radiology (NIIR), National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences (NIMHANS), Bengaluru 560 029, India
| | - Chandana Nagaraj
- Department of Neuroimaging and Interventional Radiology (NIIR), National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences (NIMHANS), Bengaluru 560 029, India
| | - Rose Dawn Bharath
- Department of Neuroimaging and Interventional Radiology (NIIR), National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences (NIMHANS), Bengaluru 560 029, India
| | - Pardeep Kumar
- Department of Neuroimaging and Interventional Radiology (NIIR), National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences (NIMHANS), Bengaluru 560 029, India
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5
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Wemm SE, Sinha R. Drug-induced stress responses and addiction risk and relapse. Neurobiol Stress 2019; 10:100148. [PMID: 30937354 PMCID: PMC6430516 DOI: 10.1016/j.ynstr.2019.100148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2018] [Revised: 12/07/2018] [Accepted: 01/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
A number of studies have assessed the effects of psychoactive drugs on stress biology, the neuroadaptations resulting from chronic drug use on stress biology, and their effects on addiction risk and relapse. This review mainly covers human research on the acute effects of different drugs of abuse (i.e., nicotine, cannabis, psychostimulants, alcohol, and opioids) on the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and the autonomic nervous system (ANS) responses. We review the literature on acute peripheral stress responses in naïve or light recreational users and binge/heavy or chronic drug users. We also discuss evidence of alterations in tonic levels, or tolerance, in the latter relative to the former and associated changes in the phasic stress responses. We discuss the impact of the stress system tolerance in heavy users on their response to drug- and stress-related cue responses and craving as compared to control subjects. A summary is provided of the effects of glucocorticoid responses and their adaptations on brain striatal and prefrontal cortices involved in the regulation of drug seeking and relapse risk. Finally, we summarize important considerations, including individual difference factors such as gender, co-occurring drug use, early trauma and adversity and drug use history and variation in methodologies, that may further influence the effects of these drugs on stress biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie E. Wemm
- Yale Stress Center, Yale School of Medicine, 2 Church St South Suite 209, New Haven, CT, 06519, USA
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6
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Murray RM, Englund A, Abi-Dargham A, Lewis DA, Di Forti M, Davies C, Sherif M, McGuire P, D'Souza DC. Cannabis-associated psychosis: Neural substrate and clinical impact. Neuropharmacology 2017. [PMID: 28634109 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2017.06.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Prospective epidemiological studies have consistently demonstrated that cannabis use is associated with an increased subsequent risk of both psychotic symptoms and schizophrenia-like psychoses. Early onset of use, daily use of high-potency cannabis, and synthetic cannabinoids carry the greatest risk. The risk-increasing effects are not explained by shared genetic predisposition between schizophrenia and cannabis use. Experimental studies in healthy humans show that cannabis and its active ingredient, delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), can produce transient, dose-dependent, psychotic symptoms, as well as an array of psychosis-relevant behavioral, cognitive and psychophysiological effects; the psychotogenic effects can be ameliorated by cannabidiol (CBD). Findings from structural imaging studies in cannabis users have been inconsistent but functional MRI studies have linked the psychotomimetic and cognitive effects of THC to activation in brain regions implicated in psychosis. Human PET studies have shown that acute administration of THC weakly releases dopamine in the striatum but that chronic users are characterised by low striatal dopamine. We are beginning to understand how cannabis use impacts on the endocannabinoid system but there is much still to learn about the biological mechanisms underlying how cannabis increases risk of psychosis. This article is part of the Special Issue entitled "A New Dawn in Cannabinoid Neurobiology".
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Affiliation(s)
- R M Murray
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology, and Neuroscience, King's College, London, UK.
| | - A Englund
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology, and Neuroscience, King's College, London, UK
| | - A Abi-Dargham
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Stony Brook University, New York, USA
| | - D A Lewis
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburg, PA, USA
| | - M Di Forti
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology, and Neuroscience, King's College, London, UK
| | - C Davies
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology, and Neuroscience, King's College, London, UK
| | - M Sherif
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, CT, USA
| | - P McGuire
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology, and Neuroscience, King's College, London, UK
| | - D C D'Souza
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, CT, USA
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7
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Thiruchselvam T, Wilson AA, Boileau I, Le Foll B. A Preliminary Investigation of the Effect of Acute Alcohol on Dopamine Transmission as Assessed by [ 11 C]-(+)-PHNO. Alcohol Clin Exp Res 2017; 41:1112-1119. [PMID: 28421623 DOI: 10.1111/acer.13403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2016] [Accepted: 04/10/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous positron emission tomography (PET) studies exploring the effect of acute alcohol on dopamine (DA) levels have yielded inconsistent results, with only some studies suggesting increased synaptic DA levels after an alcohol challenge. The D2 /D3 agonist radiotracer, [11 C]-(+)-propyl-hexahydro-naphtho-oxazin ([11 C]-(+)-PHNO), has greater sensitivity to synaptic DA fluctuation than previously used antagonist radiotracers and is in principle more suitable for imaging alcohol-induced changes in DA. Its high affinity for the D3 receptor also enables measuring changes in D3 -rich brain areas which have previously been unexplored. The aim of this study was to investigate whether alcohol reduces [11 C]-(+)-PHNO binding in the striatum and in D3 -rich extra-striatal areas. METHODS Eight healthy drinkers underwent 2 [11 C]-(+)-PHNO PET scans following alcohol and placebo in a randomized, single-blind, crossover design. [11 C]-(+)-PHNO binding in the striatum and in the extra-striatal regions were compared between the 2 scans. RESULTS Acute alcohol administration did not significantly reduce [11 C]-(+)-PHNO binding in either the limbic striatum (d = 0.64), associative striatum (d < 0.20), or the sensorimotor striatum (d < 0.15). Similarly, there were no changes in binding in the D3 -rich areas of the ventral pallidum (d = 0.53), substantia nigra (d < 0.15), or globus pallidus (d < 0.15). However, greater percent change in [11 C]-(+)-PHNO binding (ΔBPND ) between scans was related to lower blood alcohol levels. CONCLUSIONS Using the agonist radiotracer, [11 C]-(+)-PHNO, our preliminary findings suggest that alcohol is not associated with robust changes in tracer binding in striatal or extra-striatal regions. However, we found that changes in [11 C]-(+)-PHNO binding following alcohol are dependent on blood alcohol levels suggesting that increases in DA may occur at lower stimulating doses. The effect of lower doses of alcohol on DA warrants further investigation in a larger study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thulasi Thiruchselvam
- Translational Addiction Research Laboratory, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Alan A Wilson
- Research Imaging Centre, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Isabelle Boileau
- Addiction Imaging Research Group, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Bernard Le Foll
- Translational Addiction Research Laboratory, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Alcohol Research and Treatment Clinic, Addiction Medicine Services, Ambulatory Care and Structured Treatments, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Pharmacology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Division of Brain and Therapeutics, Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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8
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Trifilieff P, Ducrocq F, van der Veldt S, Martinez D. Blunted Dopamine Transmission in Addiction: Potential Mechanisms and Implications for Behavior. Semin Nucl Med 2016; 47:64-74. [PMID: 27987559 DOI: 10.1053/j.semnuclmed.2016.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Positron emission tomography (PET) imaging consistently shows blunted striatal dopamine release and decreased dopamine D2 receptor availability in addiction. Here, we review the preclinical and clinical studies indicating that this neurobiological phenotype is likely to be both a consequence of chronic drug consumption and a vulnerability factor in the development of addiction. We propose that, behaviorally, blunted striatal dopamine transmission could reflect the increased impulsivity and altered cost/benefit computations that are associated with addiction. The factors that influence blunted striatal dopamine transmission in addiction are unknown. Herein, we give an overview of various factors, genetic, environmental, and social, that are known to affect dopamine transmission and that have been associated with the vulnerability to develop addiction. Altogether, these data suggest that blunted dopamine transmission and decreased D2 receptor availability are biomarkers both for the development of addiction and resistance to treatment. These findings support the view that blunted dopamine reflects impulsive behavior and deficits in motivation, which lead to the escalation of drug use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pierre Trifilieff
- Nutrition et Neurobiologie Intégrée, INRA UMR 1286, University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France.
| | - Fabien Ducrocq
- Nutrition et Neurobiologie Intégrée, INRA UMR 1286, University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | - Suzanne van der Veldt
- Nutrition et Neurobiologie Intégrée, INRA UMR 1286, University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France; Department of Psychiatry, Douglas Mental Health University Institute, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | - Diana Martinez
- Department of Psychiatry, New York State Psychiatric Institute, Columbia University Medical College, New York, NY.
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9
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Di Ciano P, Guranda M, Lagzdins D, Tyndale RF, Gamaleddin I, Selby P, Boileau I, Le Foll B. Varenicline-Induced Elevation of Dopamine in Smokers: A Preliminary [(11)C]-(+)-PHNO PET Study. Neuropsychopharmacology 2016; 41:1513-20. [PMID: 26442600 PMCID: PMC4832011 DOI: 10.1038/npp.2015.305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2015] [Revised: 09/02/2015] [Accepted: 09/20/2015] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Varenicline, a nicotinic partial agonist, is the most effective treatment for tobacco use disorder. However, its mechanism of action is still unclear and may involve stimulating dopaminergic transmission. Here we used PET imaging with [(11)C]-(+)-PHNO to explore for the first time the impact of varenicline on dopamine transmission in the D2-rich striatum and D3-rich extra-striatal regions and its relationship with craving, withdrawal and smoking. Eleven treatment-seeking smokers underwent two PET scans with [(11)C]-(+)-PHNO, each following 12-h overnight smoking abstinence both prior to receiving varenicline and following 10-11 days of varenicline treatment (ie, at steady-state drug levels). Subjective measures of craving and urges to smoke were also assessed on the days of the PET scans. Varenicline treatment significantly reduced [(11)C]-(+)-PHNO binding in the dorsal caudate (p=0.008) and reduced some craving measures. These findings provide the first evidence that varenicline is able to increase DA levels in the human brain, a factor that may contribute to its therapeutic efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia Di Ciano
- Translational Addiction Research Laboratory, CAMH, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Mihail Guranda
- Translational Addiction Research Laboratory, CAMH, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Dina Lagzdins
- Translational Addiction Research Laboratory, CAMH, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Rachel F Tyndale
- Pharmacogenetics Laboratory, CAMH, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, CAMH, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Islam Gamaleddin
- Translational Addiction Research Laboratory, CAMH, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Institute of Environmental Studies and Research, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Peter Selby
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Ambulatory Care and Structured Treatment Program, CAMH, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Isabelle Boileau
- Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, CAMH, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Addiction Imaging Group, Research Imaging Centre, CAMH, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Bernard Le Foll
- Translational Addiction Research Laboratory, CAMH, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, CAMH, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Ambulatory Care and Structured Treatment Program, CAMH, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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10
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Occupancy of Dopamine D3 and D2 Receptors by Buspirone: A [11C]-(+)-PHNO PET Study in Humans. Neuropsychopharmacology 2016; 41:529-37. [PMID: 26089182 PMCID: PMC5130128 DOI: 10.1038/npp.2015.177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2014] [Revised: 06/08/2015] [Accepted: 06/10/2015] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
There is considerable interest in blocking the dopamine D3 receptor (DRD3) versus the D2 receptor (DRD2) to treat drug addiction. However, there are currently no selective DRD3 antagonists available in the clinic. The anxiolytic drug buspirone has been proposed as a potential strategy as findings suggest that this drug has high in vitro affinity for DRD3, binds to DRD3 in brain of living non-human primate, and also disrupts psychostimulant self-administration in preclinical models. No study has explored the occupancy of DRD3 by buspirone in humans. Here, we used positron emission tomography (PET) and the D3-preferring probe, [(11)C]-(+)-PHNO, to test the hypothesis that buspirone will occupy (decreases [(11)C]-(+)-PHNO binding) the DRD3 more readily than the DRD2. Eight healthy participants underwent [(11)C]-(+)-PHNO scans after single oral dose administration of placebo and 30, 60, and 120 mg of buspirone in a single-blind within-subjects design. [(11)C]-(+)-PHNO binding in DRD2- and DRD3-rich areas was decreased by the highest (60-120 mg), but not the lowest (30 mg), doses of buspirone. The maximal occupancy obtained was ~25% in both areas. Plasma levels of prolactin (a DRD2 marker) correlated with percentage occupancy after orally administered buspirone. Self-reported dizziness and drowsiness increased after buspirone but that did not correlate with receptor occupancy in any region. Overall, the modest occupancy of DRD2 and DRD3 even at high acute doses of buspirone, yielding high levels of metabolites, suggests that buspirone may not be a good drug to preferentially block DRD3 in humans.
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Quelch D, De Santis V, Strege A, Myers J, Wells L, Nutt D, Lingford-Hughes A, Parker C, Tyacke R. Influence of agonist induced internalization on [3H]Ro15-4513 binding-an application to imaging fluctuations in endogenous GABA with positron emission tomography. Synapse 2014; 69:60-5. [DOI: 10.1002/syn.21780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2014] [Revised: 08/12/2014] [Accepted: 08/27/2014] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Darren Quelch
- Centre for Neuropsychopharmacology; Division of Brain Sciences; Imperial College; London UK
| | | | | | - James Myers
- Centre for Neuropsychopharmacology; Division of Brain Sciences; Imperial College; London UK
| | - Lisa Wells
- Imanova Centro for Imaging Sciences; London UK
| | - David Nutt
- Centre for Neuropsychopharmacology; Division of Brain Sciences; Imperial College; London UK
| | - Anne Lingford-Hughes
- Centre for Neuropsychopharmacology; Division of Brain Sciences; Imperial College; London UK
| | | | - Robin Tyacke
- Centre for Neuropsychopharmacology; Division of Brain Sciences; Imperial College; London UK
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Cassidy CM, Brodeur MB, Lepage M, Malla A. Do reward-processing deficits in schizophrenia-spectrum disorders promote cannabis use? An investigation of physiological response to natural rewards and drug cues. J Psychiatry Neurosci 2014; 39:339-47. [PMID: 24913137 PMCID: PMC4160363 DOI: 10.1503/jpn.130207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dysfunctional reward processing is present in individuals with schizophrenia-spectrum disorders (SSD) and may confer vulnerability to addiction. Our objective was to identify a deficit in patients with SSD on response to rewarding stimuli and determine whether this deficit predicts cannabis use. METHODS We divided a group of patients with SSD and nonpsychotic controls into cannabis users and nonusers. Response to emotional and cannabis-associated visual stimuli was assessed using self-report, event-related potentials (using the late positive potential [LPP]), facial electromyography and skin-conductance response. RESULTS Our sample comprised 35 patients with SSD and 35 nonpsychotic controls. Compared with controls, the patients with SSD showed blunted LPP response to pleasant stimuli (p = 0.003). Across measures, cannabis-using controls showed greater response to pleasant stimuli than to cannabis stimuli whereas cannabis-using patients showed little bias toward pleasant stimuli. Reduced LPP response to pleasant stimuli was predictive of more frequent subsequent cannabis use (β = -0.24, p = 0.034). LIMITATIONS It is not clear if the deficit associated with cannabis use is specific to rewarding stimuli or nonspecific to any kind of emotionally salient stimuli. CONCLUSION The LPP captures a reward-processing deficit in patients with SSD and shows potential as a biomarker for identifying patients at risk of heavy cannabis use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clifford M. Cassidy
- Correspondence to: C. Cassidy, Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University, New York State Psychiatry Institute, 1051 Riverside Dr., New York, NY, 10032;
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Le Foll B, Wilson AA, Graff A, Boileau I, Di Ciano P. Recent methods for measuring dopamine D3 receptor occupancy in vivo: importance for drug development. Front Pharmacol 2014; 5:161. [PMID: 25071579 PMCID: PMC4090596 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2014.00161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2013] [Accepted: 06/19/2014] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
There is considerable interest in developing highly selective dopamine (DA) D3 receptor ligands for a variety of mental health disorders. DA D3 receptors have been implicated in Parkinson's disease, schizophrenia, anxiety, depression, and substance use disorders. The most concrete evidence suggests a role for the D3 receptor in drug-seeking behaviors. D3 receptors are a subtype of D2 receptors, and traditionally the functional role of these two receptors has been difficult to differentiate. Over the past 10-15 years a number of compounds selective for D3 over D2 receptors have been developed. However, translating these findings into clinical research has been difficult as many of these compounds cannot be used in humans. Therefore, the functional data involving the D3 receptor in drug addiction mostly comes from pre-clinical studies. Recently, with the advent of [(11)C]-(+)-PHNO, it has become possible to image D3 receptors in the human brain with increased selectivity and sensitivity. This is a significant innovation over traditional methods such as [(11)C]-raclopride that cannot differentiate between D2 and D3 receptors. The use of [(11)C]-(+)-PHNO will allow for further delineation of the role of D3 receptors. Here, we review recent evidence that the role of the D3 receptor has functional importance and is distinct from the role of the D2 receptor. We then introduce the utility of analyzing [(11)C]-(+)-PHNO binding by region of interest. This novel methodology can be used in pre-clinical and clinical approaches for the measurement of occupancy of both D3 and D2 receptors. Evidence that [(11)C]-(+)-PHNO can provide insights into the function of D3 receptors in addiction is also presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bernard Le Foll
- Translational Addiction Research Laboratory, Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health Toronto, ON, Canada ; Alcohol Research and Treatment Clinic, Addiction Medicine Services, Ambulatory Care and Structured Treatments, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health Toronto, ON, Canada ; Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto Toronto, ON, Canada ; Department of Pharmacology, University of Toronto Toronto, ON, Canada ; Division of Brain and Therapeutics, Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto Toronto, ON, Canada ; Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Toronto Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Alan A Wilson
- Translational Addiction Research Laboratory, Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health Toronto, ON, Canada ; Division of Brain and Therapeutics, Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto Toronto, ON, Canada ; Research Imaging Centre, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Ariel Graff
- Division of Brain and Therapeutics, Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto Toronto, ON, Canada ; Research Imaging Centre, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health Toronto, ON, Canada ; Multimodal Imaging Group, Research Imaging Centre, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Isabelle Boileau
- Translational Addiction Research Laboratory, Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health Toronto, ON, Canada ; Division of Brain and Therapeutics, Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto Toronto, ON, Canada ; Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Toronto Toronto, ON, Canada ; Research Imaging Centre, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health Toronto, ON, Canada ; Addiction Imaging Research Group, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Patricia Di Ciano
- Translational Addiction Research Laboratory, Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health Toronto, ON, Canada
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Ghazzaoui R, Abi-Dargham A. Imaging dopamine transmission parameters in cannabis dependence. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2014; 52:28-32. [PMID: 24513022 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2013.10.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2013] [Revised: 10/15/2013] [Accepted: 10/15/2013] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Low striatal dopamine D2/3 receptor (D2/3) availability and low ventrostriatal dopamine release have been observed in alcoholism, cocaine and heroin dependence. Multiple studies to date have examined D2 availability in cannabis dependence and have consistently failed to demonstrate alterations. In addition, the response of the dopamine system to an amphetamine challenge and to a stress challenge has also been examined, and did not show alterations. We review these studies here and conclude that cannabis dependence is an exception among commonly abused drugs in that it is not associated with blunting of the dopamine system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rassil Ghazzaoui
- Department of Psychiatry at New York State and Columbia University, NY, USA
| | - Anissa Abi-Dargham
- Department of Psychiatry at New York State and Columbia University, NY, USA; Department of Radiology at New York State and Columbia University, NY, USA.
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15
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The influence of different cellular environments on PET radioligand binding: an application to D2/3-dopamine receptor imaging. Neuropharmacology 2014; 85:305-13. [PMID: 24910074 PMCID: PMC4109028 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2014.05.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2014] [Revised: 05/01/2014] [Accepted: 05/26/2014] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Various D2/3 receptor PET radioligands are sensitive to endogenous dopamine release in vivo. The Occupancy Model is generally used to interpret changes in binding observed in in vivo competition binding studies; an Internalisation Hypothesis may also contribute to these changes in signal. Extension of in vivo competition imaging to other receptor systems has been relatively unsuccessful. A greater understanding of the cellular processes underlying signal changes following endogenous neurotransmitter release may help translate this imaging paradigm to other receptor systems. To investigate the Internalisation Hypothesis we assessed the effects of different cellular environments, representative of those experienced by a receptor following agonist-induced internalisation, on the binding of three D2/3 PET ligands with previously reported sensitivities to endogenous dopamine in vivo, namely [3H]spiperone, [3H]raclopride and [3H]PhNO. Furthermore, we determined the contribution of each cellular compartment to total striatal binding for these D2/3 ligands. These studies suggest that sensitivity to endogenous dopamine release in vivo is related to a decrease in affinity in the endosomal environment compared with those found at the cell surface. In agreement with these findings we also demonstrate that ∼25% of total striatal binding for [3H]spiperone originates from sub-cellular, microsomal receptors, whereas for [3H]raclopride and [3H]PhNO, this fraction is lower, representing ∼14% and 17%, respectively. This pharmacological approach is fully translatable to other receptor systems. Assessment of affinity shifts in different cellular compartments may play a crucial role for understanding if a radioligand is sensitive to endogenous release in vivo, for not just the D2/3, but other receptor systems. The internalisation hypothesis was investigated in relation to D2/3 receptor PET ligand binding. KD and Bmax were determined for [3H]Raclopride, PhNO and Spiperone in different cellular buffers. The cellular distribution of [3H]Raclopride, PhNO and Spiperone binding was also determined. Reductions in KD were observed in the endosomal condition in the following order PhNO > Raclopride > Spiperone. KD shifts in different cellular compartments may predict sensitivity to neurotransmitter release in vivo.
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Preclinical safety assessment of the 5-HT2A receptor agonist PET radioligand [ 11C]Cimbi-36. Mol Imaging Biol 2014; 15:376-83. [PMID: 23306971 DOI: 10.1007/s11307-012-0609-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE [11C]Cimbi-36 was recently developed as an agonist radioligand for brain imaging of serotonin 2A receptors (5-HT2A) with positron emission tomography (PET). This may be used to quantify the high-affinity state of 5-HT2A receptors and may have the potential to quantify changes in cerebral 5-HT levels in vivo. We here investigated safety aspects related to clinical use of [11C]Cimbi-36, including radiation dosimetry and in vivo pharmacology. PROCEDURES [11C]Cimbi-36 was injected in rats or pigs, and radiation dosimetry was examined by ex vivo dissection or with PET scanning, respectively. Based on animal data, the Organ Level INternal Dose Assessment software was used to estimate extrapolated human dosimetry for [11C]Cimbi-36. The 5-HT2A receptor agonist actions of [11C]Cimbi-36 in vivo pharmacological effects in mice elicited by increasing doses of Cimbi-36 were assessed with the head-twitch response (HTR). RESULTS The effective dose as extrapolated from both rat and pig data was low, 7.67 and 4.88 μSv/MBq, respectively. In addition, the estimated absorbed radiation dose to human target organs did not exceed safety levels. Administration of 0.5 mg/kg Cimbi-36 leads to significant HTR compared to saline, whereas 0.05 mg/kg Cimbi-36 (doses much larger than those given in conjunction with a PET scan) did not elicit a significant HTR. CONCLUSIONS Administration of tracer doses of [11C]Cimbi-36 does not seem to be associated with unusual radiation burden or adverse clinical effects.
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Fofi L, Orlandi V, Vanacore N, Mizzoni MC, Rosa A, Aurilia C, Egeo G, Casella P, Barbanti P. Headache in chronic cocaine users: A cross-sectional study. Cephalalgia 2014; 34:671-678. [DOI: 10.1177/0333102414520764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Background Headache is one of the most common symptoms after cocaine use. Methods We investigated headache frequency and characteristics and the correlation between headache and acute cocaine intake in a cross-sectional study in a consecutive series of chronic cocaine users. Results Participation rate was 94.1%. Of the 80 subjects enrolled, 72 (90%) reported current headaches, in most cases migraine or probable migraine without aura. Of these 72, 29 (40.3%) had a headache history, whereas 43 (59.7%) reported de novo headache after beginning to use cocaine. After acute cocaine use, a large percentage of users reported headache attacks: 86.2% of previous headache sufferers (migraine or probable migraine without aura in all cases) and 93% of de novo headache sufferers (migraine/probable migraine without aura = 35; episodic tension-type headache = three patients; cocaine-induced headache= two patients). Most subjects reported that when they used cocaine headaches worsened. Conclusion Chronic cocaine use frequently seems to worsen or induce headache with migraine or migraine-like characteristics, probably owing to a serotoninergic and dopaminergic system impairment. In headache sufferers, especially those with migraine headaches, clinicians should enquire into possible cocaine use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luisa Fofi
- Headache and Pain Unit, Department of Neurological, Motor and Sensorial Sciences, IRCCS San Raffaele Pisana, Italy
| | - Valerio Orlandi
- Drug Addiction Service, 20th District, UOS Municipio 17, ASL RME, Italy
| | - Nicola Vanacore
- National Centre of Epidemiology, Surveillance and Health Promotion, National Institute of Health, Italy
| | - Maria C Mizzoni
- Drug Addiction Service, 20th District, UOS Municipio 17, ASL RME, Italy
| | - Alba Rosa
- Drug Addiction Service, 20th District, UOS Municipio 17, ASL RME, Italy
| | - Cinzia Aurilia
- Headache and Pain Unit, Department of Neurological, Motor and Sensorial Sciences, IRCCS San Raffaele Pisana, Italy
| | - Gabriella Egeo
- Headache and Pain Unit, Department of Neurological, Motor and Sensorial Sciences, IRCCS San Raffaele Pisana, Italy
| | - Pietro Casella
- Drug Addiction Service, 20th District, UOS Municipio 17, ASL RME, Italy
| | - Piero Barbanti
- Headache and Pain Unit, Department of Neurological, Motor and Sensorial Sciences, IRCCS San Raffaele Pisana, Italy
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Ravan S, Martinez D, Slifstein M, Abi-Dargham A. Molecular imaging in alcohol dependence. HANDBOOK OF CLINICAL NEUROLOGY 2014; 125:293-311. [PMID: 25307582 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-444-62619-6.00018-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
The cellular mechanisms of alcohol's effects in the brain are complex, targeting multiple transmitter systems. Molecular imaging has been used to study the effects of alcohol and alcohol use disorders on these various systems. Studies of dopaminergic indices have provided robust evidence for deficits in D2-mediated transmission in the striatum of chronic recently detoxified alcoholics. Their presence in the at-risk state prior to excessive drinking, and their recovery after long-term sobriety, are unclear and represent an active area of current research. Investigations of the GABAergic system have shown generalized deficits in various brain regions in the chronic abstinence phase. Studies of the opiate system have suggested alterations in some subtypes in discrete brain regions, including the ventral striatum, while studies of serotonin have been negative and those of the cannabinoid system have been inconclusive. Future investigations should target the glutamatergic system, which plays an important role both in the acute intoxicating effects of alcohol as well as in the long-term effects associated with dependence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shervin Ravan
- Department of Radiology, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, NY, USA
| | - Diana Martinez
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, NY, USA
| | - Mark Slifstein
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, NY, USA
| | - Anissa Abi-Dargham
- Department of Radiology, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, NY, USA; Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, NY, USA.
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Abstract
Nurses have demonstrated concern for years about their interactions with pregnant women who abuse drugs. Reports of nurses' concern with substance abuse have been reported in the literature since the 1980s. As with any chronic disease, drug addiction causes physiologic changes, and the pathology that occurs in the brain drives characteristic behaviors. Research suggests that choices that addicts make are driven by pathology rather than by failure of a moral compass. This article reviews the theoretical explanations for addictive behaviors, describes the pathophysiology of drug addiction that is responsible for the predictable symptoms and behaviors exhibited by women who abuse prescription drugs and other opioids, and identifies nursing interventions to impact positive outcomes. Nurses who have a working knowledge of this disease will provide more effective nursing care to the women they encounter and are better prepared to make a difference in the lives of both women and their children.
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20
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Groman SM, Jentsch JD. Identifying the molecular basis of inhibitory control deficits in addictions: neuroimaging in non-human primates. Curr Opin Neurobiol 2013; 23:625-31. [PMID: 23528268 DOI: 10.1016/j.conb.2013.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2013] [Revised: 02/26/2013] [Accepted: 03/01/2013] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Deep insights into the structural, molecular and functional phenotypes underlying addiction have been made possible through in vivo neuroimaging techniques implemented in non-human and human primates. In addition to providing evidence that many of the neural alterations detected in stimulant-dependent individuals can emerge solely through experience with drugs, these studies have identified potential biological phenotypes that influence addiction liability. Here, we review recent advances that have been made in understanding the pathophysiology of stimulant addiction using neuroimaging techniques in non-human primates. Evidence indicates that dysfunction of the dopamine system can be both a cause and consequence of stimulant use and that this bi-directional relationship may be mediated by the ability of individuals to exert inhibitory control over behaviors. Further, recent data has demonstrated an involvement of the serotonin system in addiction-related behaviors and neurobiology, suggesting that the relationship between dopamine and serotonin systems may be altered in addiction. This approach aids in the development of novel targets that can be used in the treatment of addiction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie M Groman
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Los Angeles, United States
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Trifilieff P, Martinez D. Kappa-opioid receptor signaling in the striatum as a potential modulator of dopamine transmission in cocaine dependence. Front Psychiatry 2013; 4:44. [PMID: 23760592 PMCID: PMC3669800 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2013.00044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2013] [Accepted: 05/14/2013] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cocaine addiction is accompanied by a decrease in striatal dopamine signaling, measured as a decrease in dopamine D2 receptor binding as well as blunted dopamine release in the striatum. These alterations in dopamine transmission have clinical relevance, and have been shown to correlate with cocaine-seeking behavior and response to treatment for cocaine dependence. However, the mechanisms contributing to the hypodopaminergic state in cocaine addiction remain unknown. Here we review the positron emission tomography (PET) imaging studies showing alterations in D2 receptor binding potential and dopamine transmission in cocaine abusers and their significance in cocaine-seeking behavior. Based on animal and human studies, we propose that the kappa receptor/dynorphin system, because of its impact on dopamine transmission and upregulation following cocaine exposure, could contribute to the hypodopaminergic state reported in cocaine addiction, and could thus be a relevant target for treatment development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pierre Trifilieff
- New York State Psychiatric Institute, Columbia University , New York, NY , USA ; NutriNeuro, UMR 1286 INRA, University Bordeaux 2 , Bordeaux , France
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Blum K, Oscar-Berman M, Stuller E, Miller D, Giordano J, Morse S, McCormick L, Downs WB, Waite RL, Barh D, Neal D, Braverman ER, Lohmann R, Borsten J, Hauser M, Han D, Liu Y, Helman M, Simpatico T. Neurogenetics and Nutrigenomics of Neuro-Nutrient Therapy for Reward Deficiency Syndrome (RDS): Clinical Ramifications as a Function of Molecular Neurobiological Mechanisms. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013; 3:139. [PMID: 23926462 DOI: 10.4172/2155-6105.1000139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
In accord with the new definition of addiction published by American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) it is well-known that individuals who present to a treatment center involved in chemical dependency or other documented reward dependence behaviors have impaired brain reward circuitry. They have hypodopaminergic function due to genetic and/or environmental negative pressures upon the reward neuro-circuitry. This impairment leads to aberrant craving behavior and other behaviors such as Substance Use Disorder (SUD). Neurogenetic research in both animal and humans revealed that there is a well-defined cascade in the reward site of the brain that leads to normal dopamine release. This cascade has been termed the "Brain Reward Cascade" (BRC). Any impairment due to either genetics or environmental influences on this cascade will result in a reduced amount of dopamine release in the brain reward site. Manipulation of the BRC has been successfully achieved with neuro-nutrient therapy utilizing nutrigenomic principles. After over four decades of development, neuro-nutrient therapy has provided important clinical benefits when appropriately utilized. This is a review, with some illustrative case histories from a number of addiction professionals, of certain molecular neurobiological mechanisms which if ignored may lead to clinical complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth Blum
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Florida, McKnight Brain Institute, Gainesville, Fl, 100183, USA ; Department of Nutrigenomic, LifeGen, Inc. San Diego, CA, 92101, USA ; Department of Holistic Medicine, G&G Holistic Addiction Treatment Center, North Miami Beach, Fl, 33162, USA ; Center for Genomics and Applied Gene Technology, Institute of Integrative Omics and applied Biotechnology (IIOAB), Nonakuri, Purbe Medinpur, West Bengal, 721172, India ; Path Foundation NY, New York, 10001, New York USA ; Malibu Beach Recovery Center, Malibu Beach, California, 9026, USA ; Dominion Diagnostics, North Kingstown Rhode Island, 02852, USA ; Global Integrated Services Unit University of Vermont Center for Clinical & Translational Science, College of Medicine, Burlington, VT, USA
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Dichter GS, Damiano CA, Allen JA. Reward circuitry dysfunction in psychiatric and neurodevelopmental disorders and genetic syndromes: animal models and clinical findings. J Neurodev Disord 2012; 4:19. [PMID: 22958744 PMCID: PMC3464940 DOI: 10.1186/1866-1955-4-19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 199] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2012] [Accepted: 05/02/2012] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
This review summarizes evidence of dysregulated reward circuitry function in a range of neurodevelopmental and psychiatric disorders and genetic syndromes. First, the contribution of identifying a core mechanistic process across disparate disorders to disease classification is discussed, followed by a review of the neurobiology of reward circuitry. We next consider preclinical animal models and clinical evidence of reward-pathway dysfunction in a range of disorders, including psychiatric disorders (i.e., substance-use disorders, affective disorders, eating disorders, and obsessive compulsive disorders), neurodevelopmental disorders (i.e., schizophrenia, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, autism spectrum disorders, Tourette's syndrome, conduct disorder/oppositional defiant disorder), and genetic syndromes (i.e., Fragile X syndrome, Prader-Willi syndrome, Williams syndrome, Angelman syndrome, and Rett syndrome). We also provide brief overviews of effective psychopharmacologic agents that have an effect on the dopamine system in these disorders. This review concludes with methodological considerations for future research designed to more clearly probe reward-circuitry dysfunction, with the ultimate goal of improved intervention strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel S Dichter
- Carolina Institute for Developmental Disabilities, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- Department of Psychology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, CB# 7255, 101 Manning Drive, Chapel Hill, NC, 275997255, USA
| | - Cara A Damiano
- Department of Psychology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - John A Allen
- Neuroscience Research Unit Pfizer Global Research and Development, Groton, CT 06340, USA
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Abstract
The early developments of brain positron emission tomography (PET), including the methodological advances that have driven progress, are outlined. The considerable past achievements of brain PET have been summarized in collaboration with contributing experts in specific clinical applications including cerebrovascular disease, movement disorders, dementia, epilepsy, schizophrenia, addiction, depression and anxiety, brain tumors, drug development, and the normal healthy brain. Despite a history of improving methodology and considerable achievements, brain PET research activity is not growing and appears to have diminished. Assessments of the reasons for decline are presented and strategies proposed for reinvigorating brain PET research. Central to this is widening the access to advanced PET procedures through the introduction of lower cost cyclotron and radiochemistry technologies. The support and expertize of the existing major PET centers, and the recruitment of new biologists, bio-mathematicians and chemists to the field would be important for such a revival. New future applications need to be identified, the scope of targets imaged broadened, and the developed expertize exploited in other areas of medical research. Such reinvigoration of the field would enable PET to continue making significant contributions to advance the understanding of the normal and diseased brain and support the development of advanced treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Terry Jones
- PET Research Advisory Company, 8 Prestbury Road, Wilmslow, Cheshire SK9 2LJ, UK.
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26
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Urban NB, Slifstein M, Thompson JL, Xu X, Girgis RR, Raheja S, Haney M, Abi-Dargham A. Dopamine release in chronic cannabis users: a [11c]raclopride positron emission tomography study. Biol Psychiatry 2012; 71:677-83. [PMID: 22290115 PMCID: PMC3314125 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2011.12.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2011] [Revised: 12/19/2011] [Accepted: 12/20/2011] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Low striatal dopamine 2/3 receptor (D(2/3)) availability and low ventrostriatal dopamine (DA) release have been observed in alcoholism and cocaine and heroin dependence. Less is known about the dopaminergic system in cannabis dependence. We assessed D(2/3) availability and DA release in abstinent cannabis users compared with control subjects and explored relationships to cannabis use history using [(11)C]raclopride positron emission tomography and an amphetamine challenge paradigm. METHODS Sixteen recently abstinent, psychiatrically healthy cannabis-using participants (27.3 ± 6.1 years, 1 woman, 15 men) and 16 matched control subjects (28.1 ± 6.7 years, 2 women, 14 men) completed two positron emission tomography scans, before and after injection of intravenous d-amphetamine (.3 mg/kg). Percent change in [(11)C]raclopride binding after amphetamine (change in nondisplaceable binding potential, ΔBP(ND)) in subregions of the striatum was compared between groups. Correlations with clinical parameters were examined. RESULTS Cannabis users had an average consumption of 517 ± 465 estimated puffs per month, indicating mild to moderate cannabis dependence. Neither baseline BP(ND) nor ΔBP(ND) differed from control subjects in any region of interest, including ventral striatum. In cannabis-dependent subjects, earlier age of onset of use correlated with lower [ΔBP(ND)] in the associative striatum when controlling for current age. CONCLUSIONS Unlike other addictions, cannabis dependence of mild to moderate severity is not associated with striatal DA alterations. However, earlier or longer duration of use is related to lower DA release in the associative striatum. These observations suggest a more harmful effect of use during adolescence; more research is needed to distinguish effects of chronicity versus onset.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nina B.L. Urban
- Department of Psychiatry, New York State and Columbia University
| | - Mark Slifstein
- Department of Psychiatry, New York State and Columbia University
| | - Judy L. Thompson
- Department of Psychiatry, New York State and Columbia University
| | - Xiaoyan Xu
- Department of Psychiatry, New York State and Columbia University
| | - Ragy R. Girgis
- Department of Psychiatry, New York State and Columbia University
| | | | - Margaret Haney
- Department of Psychiatry, New York State and Columbia University
| | - Anissa Abi-Dargham
- Department of Psychiatry, New York State and Columbia University,Department of Radiology, New York State and Columbia University
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Abstract
Stress has long been suggested to be an important correlate of uncontrolled drinking and relapse. An important hormonal response system to stress-the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis-may be involved in this process, particularly stress hormones known as glucocorticoids and primarily cortisol. The actions of this hormone system normally are tightly regulated to ensure that the body can respond quickly to stressful events and return to a normal state just as rapidly. The main determinants of HPA axis activity are genetic background, early-life environment, and current life stress. Alterations in HPA axis regulation are associated with problematic alcohol use and dependence; however, the nature of this dysregulation appears to vary with respect to stage of alcohol dependence. Much of this research has focused specifically on the role of cortisol in the risk for, development of, and relapse to chronic alcohol use. These studies found that cortisol can interact with the brain's reward system, which may contribute to alcohol's reinforcing effects. Cortisol also can influence a person's cognitive processes, promoting habit-based learning, which may contribute to habit formation and risk of relapse. Finally, cortisol levels during abstinence may be useful clinical indicators of relapse vulnerability in alcohol-dependent people.
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Measuring Dopamine Synaptic Transmission with Molecular Imaging and Pharmacological Challenges: The State of the Art. MOLECULAR IMAGING IN THE CLINICAL NEUROSCIENCES 2012. [DOI: 10.1007/7657_2012_45] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
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Blum K, Oscar-Berman M, Bowirrat A, Giordano J, Madigan M, Braverman ER, Barh D, Hauser M, Borsten J, Simpatico T. Neuropsychiatric Genetics of Happiness, Friendships, and Politics: Hypothesizing Homophily ("Birds of a Feather Flock Together") as a Function of Reward Gene Polymorphisms. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2012; 3. [PMID: 23336089 DOI: 10.4172/2157-7412.1000112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Mindful of the new evolutionary ideas related to an emerging scientific focus known as omics, we propose that spiritual, social, and political behaviors may be tied in part to inheritable reward gene polymorphisms, as has been demonstrated for the addictions. If so, analyses of gene polymorphisms may assist in predicting liberalism or conservatism in partisan attachments. For example, both drinking (alcohol) and obesity seem to cluster in large social networks and are influenced by friends having the same genotype, in particular the DRD2 A1 allele. Likewise, voting, voting turnout and attachment to a particular political ideology is differentially related to various reward genes (e.g., 5HTT, MOA, DRD2, and DRD4), possibly predicting liberalism or conservatism. Moreover, voters' genetic information may predict presidential outcomes more than the actual issues at hand or the presidential candidates themselves. Thus, political discussions on TV, radio, or other media may be morphed by one's reward gene polymorphisms and as such, may explain the prevalence of generations of die-hard republicans and equally entrenched democratic legacies. Indeed, even in politics, birds of a feather (homophily) flock together. We caution that our proposal should be viewed mindfully awaiting additional research before definitive statements or conclusions can be derived from the studies to date, and we encourage large scale studies to confirm these earlier reports.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth Blum
- Department of Psychiatry and McKnight Brain Institute, University of Florida, College of Medicine, Gainesville, FL, USA ; Department of Holistic Medicine, G & G Holistic Addiction Treatment Center, North Miami Beach, FL, USA ; Department of Clinical Neurology, Path Foundation, New York, NY, USA ; Centre for Genomics and Applied Gene Technology, Institute of Integrative Omics and Applied Biotechnology (IIOAB), Nonakuri, PurbaMedinipur, West Bengal, India ; Department of Addiction Research and Therapy, Malibu Beach Recovery Center, Malibu Beach, CA, USA ; Department of Psychiatry, University of Vermont School of Medicine, Burlington, VT, USA
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Álvaro-Bartolomé M, La Harpe R, Callado L, Meana J, García-Sevilla J. Molecular adaptations of apoptotic pathways and signaling partners in the cerebral cortex of human cocaine addicts and cocaine-treated rats. Neuroscience 2011; 196:1-15. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2011.08.074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2011] [Revised: 08/30/2011] [Accepted: 08/30/2011] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
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