1
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Fang Q, Chan VKY, Chan SSM, Jiao Y, Wang J, Li X. Efficacy and safety of psilocybin on treatment-resistant depression: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Psychiatry Res 2024; 337:115960. [PMID: 38781672 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2024.115960] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2023] [Revised: 05/08/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Qiwen Fang
- Centre for Safe Medication Practice and Research, Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacy, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China.
| | - Vivien Kin Yi Chan
- Centre for Safe Medication Practice and Research, Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacy, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China.
| | - Sandra Sau Man Chan
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China.
| | - Yuanshi Jiao
- Department of Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China.
| | - Jiaqi Wang
- Centre for Safe Medication Practice and Research, Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacy, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China.
| | - Xue Li
- Centre for Safe Medication Practice and Research, Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacy, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China; Department of Medicine, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China; Laboratory of Data Discovery for Health (D(2)4H), Hong Kong SAR, China.
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2
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Lake S, Lucas P. The Global Psychedelic Survey: Consumer characteristics, patterns of use, and access in primarily anglophone regions around the world. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2024; 130:104507. [PMID: 38936219 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2024.104507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2024] [Revised: 05/24/2024] [Accepted: 06/19/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Despite advancements in policies governing psychedelic substances globally, our understanding of real-world psychedelic use and its variations across international jurisdictions remains limited. We implemented the Global Psychedelic Survey (GPS) to capture information about psychedelic consumer characteristics, access, and usage patterns around the world. METHODS The GPS was administered online in Spring 2023 to English-speaking adults (≥21 years) who use(d) psychedelics. We categorized survey responses into major catchment regions (Canada/US, Europe/UK, Australia/NZ, All Other). We used descriptive and bivariable statistics to characterize consumers' socio-demographic characteristics, psychedelic access sources, and usage patterns. We examined regional differences in psychedelic use patterns using multinomial logistic regression. RESULTS We analyzed 6379 responses from 85 countries including Canada/US (n = 4434), Europe/UK (n = 771), Australia/NZ (n = 864), and Other (n = 310). Psilocybin, LSD, and MDMA were the most used psychedelics and personal growth was the most common use motive across all catchments. There were significant regional differences in psychedelic use patterns, including types of psychedelics used (e.g., less ibogaine use in Europe/UK and Australia/NZ relative to Canada/US), frequency of use (e.g., lower frequency use in Australia/NZ relative to Canada/US), motivations for use (e.g., less therapeutic use in Europe/UK and Other relative to Canada/US), and types of dosing regimens (e.g., more "micro"-dosing in Canada/US). DISCUSSION In this large sample of adult psychedelic consumers from regions around the world, infrequent psychedelic use centered around life enhancement was common. Respondents indicated preference for legal access via quality-controlled sources. Jurisdictional differences in access and usage patterns likely reflect region-specific regulations and traditional practices. Further research should explore opportunities to increase representation of non-White respondents in psychedelic research via translation of studies into several languages and incorporation of culturally reflective, community-based study development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Lake
- UCLA Center for Cannabis and Cannabinoids, Jane and Terry Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, University of California, Los Angeles, 760 Westwood Plaza, Suite 38-418, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, 757 Westwood Plaza, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA.
| | - Philippe Lucas
- SABI Mind, 1615 10 Ave SW suite 202, Calgary, AB T3C 0J7, USA
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Zhu H, Wang L, Wang X, Yao Y, Zhou P, Su R. 5-hydroxytryptamine 2C/1A receptors modulate the biphasic dose response of the head twitch response and locomotor activity induced by DOM in mice. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2024:10.1007/s00213-024-06635-4. [PMID: 38916640 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-024-06635-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/26/2024]
Abstract
RATIONALE The phenylalkylamine hallucinogen (-)-2,5-dimethoxy-4-methylamphetamine (DOM) exhibits an inverted U-shaped dose-response curve for both head twitch response (HTR) and locomotor activity in mice. Accumulated studies suggest that HTR and locomotor hyperactivity induced by DOM are mainly caused by the activation of serotonin 5-hydroxytryptamine 2 A receptor (5-HT2A receptor). However, the mechanisms underlying the biphasic dose response of HTR and locomotor activity induced by DOM, particularly at high doses, remain unclear. OBJECTIVES The primary objective of this study is to investigate the modulation of 5-HT2A/2C/1A receptors in HTR and locomotor activity, while also exploring the potential receptor mechanisms underlying the biphasic dose response of DOM. METHODS In this study, we employed pharmacological methods to identify the specific 5-HT receptor subtypes responsible for mediating the biphasic dose-response effects of DOM on HTR and locomotor activity in C57BL/6J mice. RESULTS The 5-HT2A receptor selective antagonist (R)-[2,3-di(methoxy)phenyl]-[1-[2-(4-fluorophenyl)ethyl]piperidin-4-yl]methanol (M100907) (500 µg/kg, i.p.) fully blocked the HTR at every dose of DOM (0.615-10 mg/kg, i.p.) in C57BL/6J mice. M100907 (50 µg/kg, i.p.) decreased the locomotor hyperactivity induced by a low dose of DOM (0.625, 1.25 mg/kg, i.p.), but had no effect on the locomotor hypoactivity induced by a high dose of DOM (10 mg/kg) in C57BL/6J mice. The 5-HT2C antagonist 6-chloro-5-methyl-1-[(2-[2-methylpyrid-3yloxy]pyrid-5yl)carbamoyl]indoline (SB242084) (0.3, 1 mg/kg, i.p.) reduced the HTR induced by a dose of 2.5 mg/kg DOM, but did not affect the response to other doses. SB242084 (1 mg/kg, i.p.) significantly increased the locomotor activity induced by DOM (0.615-10 mg/kg, i.p.) in mice. The 5-HT1A antagonist N-[2-[4-(2-methoxyphenyl)-1-piperazinyl]ethyl]N-(2-pyridinyl) cyclohexane carboxamide maleate (WAY100635) (1 mg/kg, i.p.) increased both HTR and locomotor activity induced by DOM in mice. The 5-HT1A agonist 8-hydroxy-2-(di-n-propylamino)tetralin (8-OH-DPAT) (1 mg/kg, i.p.) significantly reduced both the HTR and locomotor activity induced by DOM in mice. Additionally, pretreatment with the Gαi/o inhibitor PTX (0.25 µg/mouse, i.c.v.) enhanced the HTR induced by DOM and attenuated the effect of DOM on locomotor activity in mice. CONCLUSIONS Receptor subtypes 5-HT2C and 5-HT1A are implicated in the inverted U-shaped dose-response curves of HTR and locomotor activity induced by DOM in mice. The biphasic dose-response function of HTR and locomotor activity induced by DOM has different mechanisms in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huili Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing Key Laboratory of Neuropsychopharmacology, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, 27th Taiping Road, Beijing, 100850, China
- School of Pharmacy, Yantai University, Yantai, 264005, China
| | - Longyu Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing Key Laboratory of Neuropsychopharmacology, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, 27th Taiping Road, Beijing, 100850, China
- Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210000, China
| | - Xiaoxuan Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing Key Laboratory of Neuropsychopharmacology, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, 27th Taiping Road, Beijing, 100850, China
| | - Yishan Yao
- State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing Key Laboratory of Neuropsychopharmacology, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, 27th Taiping Road, Beijing, 100850, China
| | - Peilan Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing Key Laboratory of Neuropsychopharmacology, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, 27th Taiping Road, Beijing, 100850, China.
| | - Ruibin Su
- State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing Key Laboratory of Neuropsychopharmacology, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, 27th Taiping Road, Beijing, 100850, China.
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Higa GSV, Viana FJC, Francis-Oliveira J, Cruvinel E, Franchin TS, Marcourakis T, Ulrich H, De Pasquale R. Serotonergic neuromodulation of synaptic plasticity. Neuropharmacology 2024; 257:110036. [PMID: 38876308 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2024.110036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2024] [Revised: 05/15/2024] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/16/2024]
Abstract
Synaptic plasticity constitutes a fundamental process in the reorganization of neural networks that underlie memory, cognition, emotional responses, and behavioral planning. At the core of this phenomenon lie Hebbian mechanisms, wherein frequent synaptic stimulation induces long-term potentiation (LTP), while less activation leads to long-term depression (LTD). The synaptic reorganization of neuronal networks is regulated by serotonin (5-HT), a neuromodulator capable of modify synaptic plasticity to appropriately respond to mental and behavioral states, such as alertness, attention, concentration, motivation, and mood. Lately, understanding the serotonergic Neuromodulation of synaptic plasticity has become imperative for unraveling its impact on cognitive, emotional, and behavioral functions. Through a comparative analysis across three main forebrain structures-the hippocampus, amygdala, and prefrontal cortex, this review discusses the actions of 5-HT on synaptic plasticity, offering insights into its role as a neuromodulator involved in emotional and cognitive functions. By distinguishing between plastic and metaplastic effects, we provide a comprehensive overview about the mechanisms of 5-HT neuromodulation of synaptic plasticity and associated functions across different brain regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guilherme Shigueto Vilar Higa
- Laboratório de Neurofisiologia, Departamento de Fisiologia e Biofísica, Universidade de São Paulo, Butantã, São Paulo, SP, 05508-000, Brazil; Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química (USP), Butantã, São Paulo, SP, 05508-900, Brazil
| | - Felipe José Costa Viana
- Laboratório de Neurofisiologia, Departamento de Fisiologia e Biofísica, Universidade de São Paulo, Butantã, São Paulo, SP, 05508-000, Brazil
| | - José Francis-Oliveira
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurobiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, 35233, USA
| | - Emily Cruvinel
- Laboratório de Neurofisiologia, Departamento de Fisiologia e Biofísica, Universidade de São Paulo, Butantã, São Paulo, SP, 05508-000, Brazil
| | - Thainá Soares Franchin
- Laboratório de Neurofisiologia, Departamento de Fisiologia e Biofísica, Universidade de São Paulo, Butantã, São Paulo, SP, 05508-000, Brazil
| | - Tania Marcourakis
- Departamento de Análises Clínicas e Toxicológicas, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade de São Paulo, Butantã, São Paulo, SP, 05508-000, Brazil
| | - Henning Ulrich
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química (USP), Butantã, São Paulo, SP, 05508-900, Brazil
| | - Roberto De Pasquale
- Laboratório de Neurofisiologia, Departamento de Fisiologia e Biofísica, Universidade de São Paulo, Butantã, São Paulo, SP, 05508-000, Brazil.
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5
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Haniff ZR, Bocharova M, Mantingh T, Rucker JJ, Velayudhan L, Taylor DM, Young AH, Aarsland D, Vernon AC, Thuret S. Psilocybin for dementia prevention? The potential role of psilocybin to alter mechanisms associated with major depression and neurodegenerative diseases. Pharmacol Ther 2024; 258:108641. [PMID: 38583670 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2024.108641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2023] [Revised: 03/28/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024]
Abstract
Major depression is an established risk factor for subsequent dementia, and depression in late life may also represent a prodromal state of dementia. Considering current challenges in the clinical development of disease modifying therapies for dementia, the focus of research is shifting towards prevention and modification of risk factors to alter the neurodegenerative disease trajectory. Understanding mechanistic commonalities underlying affective symptoms and cognitive decline may reveal biomarkers to aid early identification of those at risk of progressing to dementia during the preclinical phase of disease, thus allowing for timely intervention. Adult hippocampal neurogenesis (AHN) is a phenomenon that describes the birth of new neurons in the dentate gyrus throughout life and it is associated with spatial learning, memory and mood regulation. Microglia are innate immune system macrophages in the central nervous system that carefully regulate AHN via multiple mechanisms. Disruption in AHN is associated with both dementia and major depression and microgliosis is a hallmark of several neurodegenerative diseases. Emerging evidence suggests that psychedelics promote neuroplasticity, including neurogenesis, and may also be immunomodulatory. In this context, psilocybin, a serotonergic agonist with rapid-acting antidepressant properties has the potential to ameliorate intersecting pathophysiological processes relevant for both major depression and neurodegenerative diseases. In this narrative review, we focus on the evidence base for the effects of psilocybin on adult hippocampal neurogenesis and microglial form and function; which may suggest that psilocybin has the potential to modulate multiple mechanisms of action, and may have implications in altering the progression from major depression to dementia in those at risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zarah R Haniff
- Department of Basic and Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, United Kingdom.
| | - Mariia Bocharova
- Department of Old Age Psychiatry, Division of Academic Psychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, United Kingdom
| | - Tim Mantingh
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, United Kingdom
| | - James J Rucker
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, United Kingdom; South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, Maudsley Hospital, Denmark Hill, London, United Kingdom
| | - Latha Velayudhan
- Department of Old Age Psychiatry, Division of Academic Psychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, United Kingdom
| | - David M Taylor
- South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, Maudsley Hospital, Denmark Hill, London, United Kingdom
| | - Allan H Young
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, United Kingdom; South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, Bethlem Royal Hospital, Monks Orchard Road, Beckenham, Kent, United Kingdom
| | - Dag Aarsland
- Department of Old Age Psychiatry, Division of Academic Psychiatry, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, United Kingdom; Wolfson Centre for Age Related Diseases, Division of Neuroscience of the Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, United Kingdom; Stavanger University Hospital, Stavanger, Norway
| | - Anthony C Vernon
- Department of Basic and Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, United Kingdom; MRC Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, King's College London, United Kingdom.
| | - Sandrine Thuret
- Department of Basic and Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, United Kingdom.
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Kossatz E, Diez-Alarcia R, Gaitonde SA, Ramon-Duaso C, Stepniewski TM, Aranda-Garcia D, Muneta-Arrate I, Tepaz E, Saen-Oon S, Soliva R, Shahraki A, Moreira D, Brea J, Loza MI, de la Torre R, Kolb P, Bouvier M, Meana JJ, Robledo P, Selent J. G protein-specific mechanisms in the serotonin 5-HT 2A receptor regulate psychosis-related effects and memory deficits. Nat Commun 2024; 15:4307. [PMID: 38811567 PMCID: PMC11137019 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-48196-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024] Open
Abstract
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are sophisticated signaling machines able to simultaneously elicit multiple intracellular signaling pathways upon activation. Complete (in)activation of all pathways can be counterproductive for specific therapeutic applications. This is the case for the serotonin 2 A receptor (5-HT2AR), a prominent target for the treatment of schizophrenia. In this study, we elucidate the complex 5-HT2AR coupling signature in response to different signaling probes, and its physiological consequences by combining computational modeling, in vitro and in vivo experiments with human postmortem brain studies. We show how chemical modification of the endogenous agonist serotonin dramatically impacts the G protein coupling profile of the 5-HT2AR and the associated behavioral responses. Importantly, among these responses, we demonstrate that memory deficits are regulated by Gαq protein activation, whereas psychosis-related behavior is modulated through Gαi1 stimulation. These findings emphasize the complexity of GPCR pharmacology and physiology and open the path to designing improved therapeutics for the treatment of stchizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elk Kossatz
- Integrative Pharmacology and Systems Neuroscience Research Group, Hospital del Mar Research Institute, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Rebeca Diez-Alarcia
- Department of Pharmacology, University of the Basque Country/Euskal Herriko Unibertsitatea, Leioa, Bizkaia, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental CIBERSAM, Madrid, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Biobizkaia, Barakaldo, Bizkaia, Spain
| | - Supriya A Gaitonde
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Institute for Research in Immunology and Cancer (IRIC), Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, H3T 1J4, Canada
| | - Carla Ramon-Duaso
- Cell-type mechanisms in normal and pathological behaviour Research Group, IMIM-Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Tomasz Maciej Stepniewski
- Research Programme on Biomedical Informatics (GRIB), Hospital del Mar Research Institute, Barcelona, Spain
- InterAx Biotech AG, PARK InnovAARE, 5234, Villigen, Switzerland
| | - David Aranda-Garcia
- Research Programme on Biomedical Informatics (GRIB), Hospital del Mar Research Institute, Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Medicine and Life Sciences, Pompeu Fabra University, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Itziar Muneta-Arrate
- Department of Pharmacology, University of the Basque Country/Euskal Herriko Unibertsitatea, Leioa, Bizkaia, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental CIBERSAM, Madrid, Spain
| | - Elodie Tepaz
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Institute for Research in Immunology and Cancer (IRIC), Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, H3T 1J4, Canada
| | - Suwipa Saen-Oon
- NBD NOSTRUM BIODISCOVERY, Av. de Josep Tarradellas, 8-10, 3-2, 08029, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Robert Soliva
- NBD NOSTRUM BIODISCOVERY, Av. de Josep Tarradellas, 8-10, 3-2, 08029, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Aida Shahraki
- Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of Marburg, Marbacher Weg 8, Marburg, 35037, Germany
| | - David Moreira
- Innopharma Drug Screening and Pharmacogenomics Platform. BioFarma research group. Center for Research in Molecular Medicine and Chronic Diseases (CiMUS). Department of Pharmacology, Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology, University of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
- Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), University Hospital of Santiago de Compostela (SERGAS), Trav. Choupana s/n, 15706, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Jose Brea
- Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of Marburg, Marbacher Weg 8, Marburg, 35037, Germany
- Innopharma Drug Screening and Pharmacogenomics Platform. BioFarma research group. Center for Research in Molecular Medicine and Chronic Diseases (CiMUS). Department of Pharmacology, Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology, University of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Maria Isabel Loza
- Innopharma Drug Screening and Pharmacogenomics Platform. BioFarma research group. Center for Research in Molecular Medicine and Chronic Diseases (CiMUS). Department of Pharmacology, Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology, University of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
- Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), University Hospital of Santiago de Compostela (SERGAS), Trav. Choupana s/n, 15706, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Rafael de la Torre
- Integrative Pharmacology and Systems Neuroscience Research Group, Hospital del Mar Research Institute, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Peter Kolb
- Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of Marburg, Marbacher Weg 8, Marburg, 35037, Germany
| | - Michel Bouvier
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Institute for Research in Immunology and Cancer (IRIC), Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, H3T 1J4, Canada
| | - J Javier Meana
- Department of Pharmacology, University of the Basque Country/Euskal Herriko Unibertsitatea, Leioa, Bizkaia, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental CIBERSAM, Madrid, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Biobizkaia, Barakaldo, Bizkaia, Spain
| | - Patricia Robledo
- Integrative Pharmacology and Systems Neuroscience Research Group, Hospital del Mar Research Institute, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Jana Selent
- Research Programme on Biomedical Informatics (GRIB), Hospital del Mar Research Institute, Barcelona, Spain.
- Department of Medicine and Life Sciences, Pompeu Fabra University, Barcelona, Spain.
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7
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Harari R, Chatterjee I, Getselter D, Elliott E. Psilocybin induces acute anxiety and changes in amygdalar phosphopeptides independently from the 5-HT2A receptor. iScience 2024; 27:109686. [PMID: 38660396 PMCID: PMC11039401 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2024.109686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2023] [Revised: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Psilocybin, and its metabolite psilocin, induces psychedelic effects through activation of the 5-HT2A receptor. Psilocybin has been proposed as a treatment for depression and anxiety but sometimes induces anxiety in humans. An understanding of mechanisms underlying the anxiety response will help to better develop therapeutic prospects of psychedelics. In the current study, psilocybin induced an acute increase in anxiety in behavioral paradigms in mice. Importantly, pharmacological blocking of the 5-HT2A receptor attenuates psilocybin-induced head twitch response, a behavioral proxy for the psychedelic response, but does not rescue psilocybin's effect on anxiety-related behavior. Phosphopeptide analysis in the amygdala uncovered signal transduction pathways that are dependent or independent of the 5-HT2A receptor. Furthermore, presynaptic proteins are specifically involved in psilocybin-induced acute anxiety. These insights into how psilocybin may induce short-term anxiety are important for understanding how psilocybin may best be used in the clinical framework.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ram Harari
- Azrieli Faculty of Medicine, Bar-Ilan University, Safed 13215, Israel
| | - Ipsita Chatterjee
- Azrieli Faculty of Medicine, Bar-Ilan University, Safed 13215, Israel
- Department of Neuroscience, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Dmitriy Getselter
- Azrieli Faculty of Medicine, Bar-Ilan University, Safed 13215, Israel
| | - Evan Elliott
- Azrieli Faculty of Medicine, Bar-Ilan University, Safed 13215, Israel
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8
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Xie L, Liu X, Yao Y, Tan B, Su R. Serine 3.39 and isoleucine 4.60 are key sites for 5-HT 2AR-mediated G s signaling. FEBS Lett 2024. [PMID: 38757247 DOI: 10.1002/1873-3468.14904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2024] [Revised: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
Certain amino acid sites of 5-HT2AR play crucial roles in interacting with various G proteins. Hallucinogens and non-hallucinogens both act on 5-HT2AR but mediate different pharmacological effects, possibly due to the coupling of different G proteins. Therefore, this study identified the binding sites of hallucinogens and non-hallucinogens with 5-HT2AR through molecular docking. We conducted site mutation to examine the impact of these sites on G proteins, in order to find out the sites that can distinguish the pharmacological effects of hallucinogens and non-hallucinogens. Our results indicate that I4.60A and S3.39A did not affect the ability of hallucinogens to activate Gq signaling, but significantly reduced Gs signaling activation by hallucinogens. These results suggest that S3.39 and I4.60 are important for the activation of Gs signaling by hallucinogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lulu Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing Key Laboratory of Neuropsychopharmacology, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, China
- Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, China
| | - Xiaoqian Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing Key Laboratory of Neuropsychopharmacology, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, China
| | - Yishan Yao
- State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing Key Laboratory of Neuropsychopharmacology, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, China
| | - Bo Tan
- State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing Key Laboratory of Neuropsychopharmacology, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, China
| | - Ruibin Su
- State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing Key Laboratory of Neuropsychopharmacology, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, China
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9
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Hilal FF, Jeanblanc J, Deschamps C, Naassila M, Pierrefiche O, Ben Hamida S. Epigenetic drugs and psychedelics as emerging therapies for alcohol use disorder: insights from preclinical studies. J Neural Transm (Vienna) 2024; 131:525-561. [PMID: 38554193 DOI: 10.1007/s00702-024-02757-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/01/2024]
Abstract
Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a public health issue that affects millions of people worldwide leading to physical, mental and socio-economic consequences. While current treatments for AUD have provided relief to individuals, their effectiveness on the long term is often limited, leaving a number of affected individuals without sustainable solutions. In this review, we aim to explore two emerging approaches for AUD: psychedelics and epigenetic drugs (i.e., epidrugs). By examining preclinical studies, different animal species and procedures, we delve into the potential benefits of each of these treatments in terms of addictive behaviors (alcohol drinking and seeking, motivation to drink alcohol and prevention of relapse). Because psychedelics and epidrugs may share common and complementary mechanisms of action, there is an exciting opportunity for exploring synergies between these approaches and their parallel effectiveness in treating AUD and the diverse associated psychiatric conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fahd François Hilal
- INSERM UMR 1247-Research Group on Alcohol and Pharmacodependences (GRAP), Université de Picardie Jules Verne, Chemin du Thil - Centre Universitaire de Recherche en Santé, 80025, Amiens, France
| | - Jerome Jeanblanc
- INSERM UMR 1247-Research Group on Alcohol and Pharmacodependences (GRAP), Université de Picardie Jules Verne, Chemin du Thil - Centre Universitaire de Recherche en Santé, 80025, Amiens, France
| | - Chloé Deschamps
- INSERM UMR 1247-Research Group on Alcohol and Pharmacodependences (GRAP), Université de Picardie Jules Verne, Chemin du Thil - Centre Universitaire de Recherche en Santé, 80025, Amiens, France
| | - Mickael Naassila
- INSERM UMR 1247-Research Group on Alcohol and Pharmacodependences (GRAP), Université de Picardie Jules Verne, Chemin du Thil - Centre Universitaire de Recherche en Santé, 80025, Amiens, France.
| | - Olivier Pierrefiche
- INSERM UMR 1247-Research Group on Alcohol and Pharmacodependences (GRAP), Université de Picardie Jules Verne, Chemin du Thil - Centre Universitaire de Recherche en Santé, 80025, Amiens, France
| | - Sami Ben Hamida
- INSERM UMR 1247-Research Group on Alcohol and Pharmacodependences (GRAP), Université de Picardie Jules Verne, Chemin du Thil - Centre Universitaire de Recherche en Santé, 80025, Amiens, France.
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10
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Takaba R, Ibi D, Yoshida K, Hosomi E, Kawase R, Kitagawa H, Goto H, Achiwa M, Mizutani K, Maeda K, González-Maeso J, Kitagaki S, Hiramatsu M. Ethopharmacological evaluation of antidepressant-like effect of serotonergic psychedelics in C57BL/6J male mice. NAUNYN-SCHMIEDEBERG'S ARCHIVES OF PHARMACOLOGY 2024; 397:3019-3035. [PMID: 37874338 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-023-02778-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/07/2023] [Indexed: 10/25/2023]
Abstract
Serotonergic psychedelics such as psilocybin, lysergic acid diethylamide, and DOI exert a hallucinatory effect through serotonin 5-HT2A receptor (5-HT2A) activation. Recent studies have revealed that serotonergic psychedelics have therapeutic potential for neuropsychiatric disorders, including major depressive and anxiety-related disorders. However, the involvement of 5-HT2A in mediating the therapeutic effects of these drugs remains unclear. In this study, we ethopharmacologically analyzed the role of 5-HT2A in the occurrence of anxiolytic- and antidepressant-like effects of serotonergic psychedelics such as psilocin, an active metabolite of psilocybin, DOI, and TCB-2 in mice 24 h post-treatment. Mice with acute intraperitoneal psychedelic treatment exhibited significantly shorter immobility times in the forced swimming test (FST) and tail-suspension test (TST) than vehicle-treated control mice. These effects were eliminated by pretreatment with volinanserin, a 5-HT2A antagonist. Surprisingly, the decreasing immobility time in the FST in response to acute psilocin treatment was sustained for at least three weeks. In the novelty-suppressed feeding test (NSFT), the latency to feed, an indicator of anxiety-like behavior, was decreased by acute administration of psilocin; however, pretreatment with volinanserin did not diminish this effect. In contrast, DOI and TCB-2 did not affect the NSFT performance in mice. Furthermore, psilocin, DOI, and TCB-2 treatment did not affect the spontaneous locomotor activity or head-twitch response, a hallucination-like behavior in rodents. These results suggest that 5-HT2A contributes to the antidepressant effects of serotonergic psychedelics rather than anxiolytic effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rika Takaba
- Department of Chemical Pharmacology, Graduate School of Pharmacy, Meijo University, Nagoya, Japan, 468-8502.
| | - Daisuke Ibi
- Department of Chemical Pharmacology, Graduate School of Pharmacy, Meijo University, Nagoya, Japan, 468-8502.
- Department of Chemical Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Meijo University, Nagoya, Japan, 468-8502.
| | - Keisuke Yoshida
- Department of Medical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Meijo University, Nagoya, Japan, 468-8502
| | - Eri Hosomi
- Department of Chemical Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Meijo University, Nagoya, Japan, 468-8502
| | - Ririna Kawase
- Department of Chemical Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Meijo University, Nagoya, Japan, 468-8502
| | - Hiroko Kitagawa
- Department of Chemical Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Meijo University, Nagoya, Japan, 468-8502
| | - Hirotaka Goto
- Department of Chemical Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Meijo University, Nagoya, Japan, 468-8502
| | - Mizuki Achiwa
- Department of Chemical Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Meijo University, Nagoya, Japan, 468-8502
| | - Kento Mizutani
- Department of Chemical Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Meijo University, Nagoya, Japan, 468-8502
| | - Kyosuke Maeda
- Department of Chemical Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Meijo University, Nagoya, Japan, 468-8502
| | - Javier González-Maeso
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, VA, 23298, USA
| | - Shinji Kitagaki
- Department of Medical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Meijo University, Nagoya, Japan, 468-8502
| | - Masayuki Hiramatsu
- Department of Chemical Pharmacology, Graduate School of Pharmacy, Meijo University, Nagoya, Japan, 468-8502.
- Department of Chemical Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Meijo University, Nagoya, Japan, 468-8502.
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11
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Muneta-Arrate I, Miranda-Azpiazu P, Horrillo I, Diez-Alarcia R, Meana JJ. Ligand bias and inverse agonism on 5-HT 2A receptor-mediated modulation of G protein activity in post-mortem human brain. Br J Pharmacol 2024. [PMID: 38644550 DOI: 10.1111/bph.16368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2023] [Revised: 12/30/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/23/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Whereas biased agonism on the 5-HT2A receptor has been ascribed to hallucinogenic properties of psychedelics, no information about biased inverse agonism on this receptor is available. In schizophrenia, increased 5-HT2A receptor constitutive activity has been suggested, highlighting the therapeutic relevance of inverse agonism. This study characterized the modulation of G protein activity promoted by different drugs, commonly considered as 5-HT2A receptor antagonists, in post-mortem human brain cortex. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Modulation of [35S]GTPγS binding to different subtypes of Gα proteins exerted by different 5-HT2A receptor drugs was determined by scintillation proximity assays in brain from human, WT and 5-HT2A receptor KO mice. KEY RESULTS MDL-11,939 was the only drug having no effect on the basal activity of 5-HT2A receptor. Altanserin and pimavanserin decreased basal activation of Gi1, but not Gq/11 proteins. This effect was blocked by MDL-11,939 and absent in 5-HT2A receptor KO mice. Volinanserin showed 5-HT2A receptor-mediated inverse agonism both on Gi1 and Gq/11 proteins. Ketanserin exhibited 5-HT2A receptor partial agonism exclusively on Gq/11 proteins. On the other hand, eplivanserin and nelotanserin displayed inverse agonism on Gq/11 and/or Gi1 proteins, which was insensitive to MDL-11,939 and was present in KO mice suggesting a role for another receptor. CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS The results reveal the existence of constitutively active 5-HT2A receptors in human pre-frontal cortex and demonstrate different pharmacological profiles of various 5-HT2A receptor drugs previously considered antagonists. These findings indicate that altanserin and pimavanserin possess biased inverse agonist profile towards 5-HT2A receptor activation of Gi1 proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Itziar Muneta-Arrate
- Department of Pharmacology, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Leioa, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental CIBERSAM, ISCIII, Leioa, Spain
- Current address: Department of Basic Neuroscience, Medical Faculty, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Patricia Miranda-Azpiazu
- Department of Pharmacology, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Leioa, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental CIBERSAM, ISCIII, Leioa, Spain
| | - Igor Horrillo
- Department of Pharmacology, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Leioa, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental CIBERSAM, ISCIII, Leioa, Spain
- Biobizkaia Health Research Institute, Barakaldo, Spain
| | - Rebeca Diez-Alarcia
- Department of Pharmacology, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Leioa, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental CIBERSAM, ISCIII, Leioa, Spain
- Biobizkaia Health Research Institute, Barakaldo, Spain
| | - J Javier Meana
- Department of Pharmacology, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Leioa, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental CIBERSAM, ISCIII, Leioa, Spain
- Biobizkaia Health Research Institute, Barakaldo, Spain
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12
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Maia JM, de Oliveira BSA, Branco LGS, Soriano RN. Therapeutic potential of psychedelics: History, advancements, and unexplored frontiers. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2024; 131:110951. [PMID: 38307161 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2024.110951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 02/04/2024]
Abstract
Psychedelics (serotonergic hallucinogens) are psychoactive substances that can alter perception and mood, and affect cognitive functions. These substances activate 5-HT2A receptors and may exert therapeutic effects. Some of the disorders for which psychedelic-assisted therapy have been studied include depression, addiction, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder. Despite the increasing number of studies reporting clinical effectiveness, with fewer negative symptoms and, additionally, minimal side effects, questions remain to be explored in the field of psychedelic medicine. Although progress has been achieved, there is still little understanding of the relationship among human brain and the modulation induced by these drugs. The present article aimed to describe, review and highlight the most promising findings in the literature regarding the (putative) therapeutic effects of psychedelics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliana Marino Maia
- Department of Medicine, Federal University of Juiz de Fora, Governador Valadares, MG 35032-620, Brazil
| | | | - Luiz G S Branco
- Department of Basic and Oral Biology, School of Dentistry of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP 14040-904, Brazil; Department of Physiology, Medical School of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP 14040-900, Brazil.
| | - Renato Nery Soriano
- Division of Physiology and Biophysics, Department of Basic Life Sciences, Federal University of Juiz de Fora, Governador Valadares, MG 35020-360, Brazil
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13
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Armstrong M, Castellanos J, Christie D. Chronic pain as an emergent property of a complex system and the potential roles of psychedelic therapies. FRONTIERS IN PAIN RESEARCH 2024; 5:1346053. [PMID: 38706873 PMCID: PMC11066302 DOI: 10.3389/fpain.2024.1346053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Despite research advances and urgent calls by national and global health organizations, clinical outcomes for millions of people suffering with chronic pain remain poor. We suggest bringing the lens of complexity science to this problem, conceptualizing chronic pain as an emergent property of a complex biopsychosocial system. We frame pain-related physiology, neuroscience, developmental psychology, learning, and epigenetics as components and mini-systems that interact together and with changing socioenvironmental conditions, as an overarching complex system that gives rise to the emergent phenomenon of chronic pain. We postulate that the behavior of complex systems may help to explain persistence of chronic pain despite current treatments. From this perspective, chronic pain may benefit from therapies that can be both disruptive and adaptive at higher orders within the complex system. We explore psychedelic-assisted therapies and how these may overlap with and complement mindfulness-based approaches to this end. Both mindfulness and psychedelic therapies have been shown to have transdiagnostic value, due in part to disruptive effects on rigid cognitive, emotional, and behavioral patterns as well their ability to promote neuroplasticity. Psychedelic therapies may hold unique promise for the management of chronic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maya Armstrong
- Department of Family & Community Medicine, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, United States
| | - Joel Castellanos
- Division of Pain Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology, University of California, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Devon Christie
- Department of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
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14
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Phelps J, Kumar R, Robinson JD, Chu JCK, Flodén NJ, Beaton S, Gaunt MJ. Multicomponent Synthesis of α-Branched Amines via a Zinc-Mediated Carbonyl Alkylative Amination Reaction. J Am Chem Soc 2024; 146:9045-9062. [PMID: 38488310 PMCID: PMC10996026 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.3c14037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2023] [Revised: 02/09/2024] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024]
Abstract
Methods for the synthesis of α-branched alkylamines are important due to their ubiquity in biologically active molecules. Despite the development of many methods for amine preparation, C(sp3)-rich nitrogen-containing compounds continue to pose challenges for synthesis. While carbonyl reductive amination (CRA) between ketones and alkylamines is the cornerstone method for α-branched alkylamine synthesis, it is sometimes limited by the sterically demanding condensation step between dialkyl ketones and amines and the more restricted availability of ketones compared to aldehydes. We recently reported a "higher-order" variant of this transformation, carbonyl alkylative amination (CAA), which utilized a halogen atom transfer (XAT)-mediated radical mechanism, enabling the streamlined synthesis of complex α-branched alkylamines. Despite the efficacy of this visible-light-driven approach, it displayed scalability issues, and competitive reductive amination was a problem for certain substrate classes, limiting applicability. Here, we report a change in the reaction regime that expands the CAA platform through the realization of an extremely broad zinc-mediated CAA reaction. This new strategy enabled elimination of competitive CRA, simplified purification, and improved reaction scope. Furthermore, this new reaction harnessed carboxylic acid derivatives as alkyl donors and facilitated the synthesis of α-trialkyl tertiary amines, which cannot be accessed via CRA. This Zn-mediated CAA reaction can be carried out at a variety of scales, from a 10 μmol setup in microtiter plates enabling high-throughput experimentation, to the gram-scale synthesis of medicinally-relevant compounds. We believe that this transformation enables robust, efficient, and economical access to α-branched alkylamines and provides a viable alternative to the current benchmark methods.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Nils J. Flodén
- Yusuf Hamied Department of
Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1EW, United Kingdom
| | - Sarah Beaton
- Yusuf Hamied Department of
Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1EW, United Kingdom
| | - Matthew J. Gaunt
- Yusuf Hamied Department of
Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1EW, United Kingdom
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15
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Gaitonde SA, Avet C, de la Fuente Revenga M, Blondel-Tepaz E, Shahraki A, Pastor AM, Talagayev V, Robledo P, Kolb P, Selent J, González-Maeso J, Bouvier M. Pharmacological fingerprint of antipsychotic drugs at the serotonin 5-HT 2A receptor. Mol Psychiatry 2024:10.1038/s41380-024-02531-7. [PMID: 38561467 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-024-02531-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2023] [Revised: 03/06/2024] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
The intricate involvement of the serotonin 5-HT2A receptor (5-HT2AR) both in schizophrenia and in the activity of antipsychotic drugs is widely acknowledged. The currently marketed antipsychotic drugs, although effective in managing the symptoms of schizophrenia to a certain extent, are not without their repertoire of serious side effects. There is a need for better therapeutics to treat schizophrenia for which understanding the mechanism of action of the current antipsychotic drugs is imperative. With bioluminescence resonance energy transfer (BRET) assays, we trace the signaling signature of six antipsychotic drugs belonging to three generations at the 5-HT2AR for the entire spectrum of signaling pathways activated by serotonin (5-HT). The antipsychotic drugs display previously unidentified pathway preference at the level of the individual Gα subunits and β-arrestins. In particular, risperidone, clozapine, olanzapine and haloperidol showed G protein-selective inverse agonist activity. In addition, G protein-selective partial agonism was found for aripiprazole and cariprazine. Pathway-specific apparent dissociation constants determined from functional analyses revealed distinct coupling-modulating capacities of the tested antipsychotics at the different 5-HT-activated pathways. Computational analyses of the pharmacological and structural fingerprints support a mechanistically based clustering that recapitulate the clinical classification (typical/first generation, atypical/second generation, third generation) of the antipsychotic drugs. The study provides a new framework to functionally classify antipsychotics that should represent a useful tool for the identification of better and safer neuropsychiatric drugs and allows formulating hypotheses on the links between specific signaling cascades and in the clinical outcomes of the existing drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Supriya A Gaitonde
- Institute for Research in Immunology and Cancer (IRIC), Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, H3T 1J4, Canada
| | - Charlotte Avet
- Institute for Research in Immunology and Cancer (IRIC), Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, H3T 1J4, Canada
| | - Mario de la Fuente Revenga
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, School of Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, 23298, USA
| | - Elodie Blondel-Tepaz
- Institute for Research in Immunology and Cancer (IRIC), Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, H3T 1J4, Canada
| | - Aida Shahraki
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Philipps-Universität Marburg, Marbacher Weg 8, 35032, Marburg, Germany
| | - Adrian Morales Pastor
- Research Programme on Biomedical Informatics (GRIB), IMIM-Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute, Barcelona, 08003, Spain
| | - Valerij Talagayev
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Philipps-Universität Marburg, Marbacher Weg 8, 35032, Marburg, Germany
| | - Patricia Robledo
- Integrative Pharmacology and Systems Neuroscience Research Group, IMIM-Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute, Barcelona, 08003, Spain
| | - Peter Kolb
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Philipps-Universität Marburg, Marbacher Weg 8, 35032, Marburg, Germany
| | - Jana Selent
- Research Programme on Biomedical Informatics (GRIB), IMIM-Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute, Barcelona, 08003, Spain
| | - Javier González-Maeso
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, School of Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, 23298, USA
| | - Michel Bouvier
- Institute for Research in Immunology and Cancer (IRIC), Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, H3T 1J4, Canada.
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16
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Arias HR, Rudin D, Hines DJ, Contreras A, Gulsevin A, Manetti D, Anouar Y, De Deurwaerdere P, Meiler J, Romanelli MN, Liechti ME, Chagraoui A. The novel non-hallucinogenic compound DM506 (3-methyl-1,2,3,4,5,6-hexahydroazepino[4,5-b]indole) induces sedative- and anxiolytic-like activity in mice by a mechanism involving 5-HT 2A receptor activation. Eur J Pharmacol 2024; 966:176329. [PMID: 38253116 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2024.176329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
The anxiolytic and sedative-like effects of 3-methyl-1,2,3,4,5,6-hexahydroazepino[4,5-b]indole (DM506), a non-hallucinogenic compound derived from ibogamine, were studied in mice. The behavioral effects were examined using Elevated O-maze and novelty suppressed feeding (NSFT) tests, open field test, and loss of righting reflex (LORR) test. The results showed that 15 mg/kg DM506 induced acute and long-lasting anxiolytic-like activity in naive and stressed/anxious mice, respectively. Repeated administration of 5 mg/kg DM506 did not cause cumulative anxiolytic activity or any side effects. Higher doses of DM506 (40 mg/kg) induced sedative-like activity, which was inhibited by a selective 5-HT2A receptor antagonist, volinanserin. Electroencephalography results showed that 15 mg/kg DM506 fumarate increased the transition from a highly alert state (fast γ wavelength) to a more synchronized deep-sleeping activity (δ wavelength), which is reflected in the sedative/anxiolytic activity in mice but without the head-twitch response observed in hallucinogens. The functional, radioligand binding, and molecular docking results showed that DM506 binds to the agonist sites of human 5-HT2A (Ki = 24 nM) and 5-HT2B (Ki = 16 nM) receptors and activates them with a potency (EC50) of 9 nM and 3 nM, respectively. DM506 was relatively less potent and behaved as a partial agonist (efficacy <80%) for both receptor subtypes compared to the full agonist DOI (2,5-dimethoxy-4-iodoamphetamine). Our study showed for the first time that the non-hallucinogenic compound DM506 induces anxiolytic- and sedative-like activities in naïve and stressed/anxious mice in a dose-, time-, and volinanserin-sensitive manner, likely through mechanisms involving 5-HT2A receptor activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hugo R Arias
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine, Tahlequah, OK, USA
| | - Deborah Rudin
- Divison of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland; Division of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Department of Biomedicine, University Hospital Basel and University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Dustin J Hines
- Psychological and Brain Sciences, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, NV, USA
| | - April Contreras
- Psychological and Brain Sciences, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, NV, USA
| | - Alican Gulsevin
- Department of Chemistry, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA; Center for Structural Biology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Dina Manetti
- Department of Neurosciences, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health Section of Pharmaceutical and Nutraceutical Sciences, University of Florence, Italy
| | - Youssef Anouar
- UNIROUEN, Inserm U1239, Neuroendocrine, Endocrine and Germinal Differentiation and Communication (NorDiC), Rouen Normandie University, 76000, Mont-Saint-Aignan, France
| | - Philippe De Deurwaerdere
- Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Institut des Neurosciences Integratives et Cognitives d'Aquitaine, UMR, 5287, Bordeaux, France
| | - Jens Meiler
- Institute for Drug Discovery, Leipzig University Medical School, 04103, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Maria Novella Romanelli
- Department of Neurosciences, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health Section of Pharmaceutical and Nutraceutical Sciences, University of Florence, Italy
| | - Matthias E Liechti
- Divison of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland; Division of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Department of Biomedicine, University Hospital Basel and University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Abdeslam Chagraoui
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Rouen University Hospital, CHU de Rouen, France; UNIROUEN, Inserm U1239, Neuroendocrine, Endocrine and Germinal Differentiation and Communication (NorDiC), Rouen Normandie University, 76000, Mont-Saint-Aignan, France.
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17
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Allen J, Dames SS, Foldi CJ, Shultz SR. Psychedelics for acquired brain injury: a review of molecular mechanisms and therapeutic potential. Mol Psychiatry 2024; 29:671-685. [PMID: 38177350 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-023-02360-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2023] [Revised: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024]
Abstract
Acquired brain injury (ABI), such as traumatic brain injury and stroke, is a leading cause of disability worldwide, resulting in debilitating acute and chronic symptoms, as well as an increased risk of developing neurological and neurodegenerative disorders. These symptoms can stem from various neurophysiological insults, including neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, imbalances in neurotransmission, and impaired neuroplasticity. Despite advancements in medical technology and treatment interventions, managing ABI remains a significant challenge. Emerging evidence suggests that psychedelics may rapidly improve neurobehavioral outcomes in patients with various disorders that share physiological similarities with ABI. However, research specifically focussed on psychedelics for ABI is limited. This narrative literature review explores the neurochemical properties of psychedelics as a therapeutic intervention for ABI, with a focus on serotonin receptors, sigma-1 receptors, and neurotrophic signalling associated with neuroprotection, neuroplasticity, and neuroinflammation. The promotion of neuronal growth, cell survival, and anti-inflammatory properties exhibited by psychedelics strongly supports their potential benefit in managing ABI. Further research and translational efforts are required to elucidate their therapeutic mechanisms of action and to evaluate their effectiveness in treating the acute and chronic phases of ABI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josh Allen
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Shannon S Dames
- Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy Post-Graduate Program, Health Sciences and Human Services, Vancouver Island University, Nanaimo, BC, Canada
| | - Claire J Foldi
- Department of Physiology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Sandy R Shultz
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
- Centre for Trauma and Mental Health Research, Health Sciences and Human Services, Vancouver Island University, Nanaimo, BC, Canada.
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18
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Carson MC, Kozlowski MC. Recent advances in oxidative phenol coupling for the total synthesis of natural products. Nat Prod Rep 2024; 41:208-227. [PMID: 37294301 PMCID: PMC10709532 DOI: 10.1039/d3np00009e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Covering: 2008 to 2023This review will describe oxidative phenol coupling as applied in the total synthesis of natural products. This review covers catalytic and electrochemical methods with a brief comparison to stoichiometric and enzymatic systems assessing their practicality, atom economy, and other measures. Natural products forged by C-C and C-O oxidative phenol couplings as well as from alkenyl phenol couplings will be addressed. Additionally, exploration into catalytic oxidative coupling of phenols and other related species (carbazoles, indoles, aryl ethers, etc.) will be surveyed. Future directions of this particular area of research will also be assessed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew C Carson
- Department of Chemistry, Roy and Diana Vagelos Laboratories, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104-6323, USA.
| | - Marisa C Kozlowski
- Department of Chemistry, Roy and Diana Vagelos Laboratories, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104-6323, USA.
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19
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Palmisano VF, Agnorelli C, Fagiolini A, Erritzoe D, Nutt D, Faraji S, Nogueira JJ. Membrane Permeation of Psychedelic Tryptamines by Dynamic Simulations. Biochemistry 2024. [PMID: 38324395 PMCID: PMC10882957 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biochem.3c00598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Abstract
Renewed scientific interest in psychedelic compounds represents one of the most promising avenues for addressing the current burden of mental health disorders. Classic psychedelics are a group of compounds that exhibit structural similarities to the naturally occurring neurotransmitter serotonin (5-HT). Acting on the 5-HT type 2A receptors (HT2ARs), psychedelics induce enduring neurophysiological changes that parallel their therapeutic psychological and behavioral effects. Recent preclinical evidence suggests that the ability of psychedelics to exert their action is determined by their ability to permeate the neuronal membrane to target a pool of intracellular 5-HT2ARs. In this computational study, we employ classical molecular dynamics simulations and umbrella sampling techniques to investigate the permeation behavior of 12 selected tryptamines and to characterize the interactions that drive the process. We aim at elucidating the impact of N-alkylation, indole ring substitution and positional modifications, and protonation on their membrane permeability. Dimethylation of the primary amine group and the introduction of a methoxy group at position 5 exhibited an increase in permeability. Moreover, there is a significant influence of positional substitutions on the indole groups, and the protonation of the molecules substantially increases the energy barrier at the center of the bilayer, making the compounds highly impermeable. All the information extracted from the trends predicted by the simulations can be applied in future drug design projects to develop psychedelics with enhanced activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vito F Palmisano
- Department of Chemistry, Universidad Autonoma de Madrid, Madrid 28049, Spain
- Theoretical Chemistry Group, Zernike Institute for Advanced Materials, University of Groningen, Groningen 9747 AG, The Netherlands
| | - Claudio Agnorelli
- Center for Psychedelic Research, Division of Psychiatry, Department of Brain Science, Imperial College of London, London SW7 2BX, U.K
- Unit of Psychiatry, Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Siena, Siena 53100, Italy
| | - Andrea Fagiolini
- Unit of Psychiatry, Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Siena, Siena 53100, Italy
| | - David Erritzoe
- Center for Psychedelic Research, Division of Psychiatry, Department of Brain Science, Imperial College of London, London SW7 2BX, U.K
| | - David Nutt
- Center for Psychedelic Research, Division of Psychiatry, Department of Brain Science, Imperial College of London, London SW7 2BX, U.K
| | - Shirin Faraji
- Theoretical Chemistry Group, Zernike Institute for Advanced Materials, University of Groningen, Groningen 9747 AG, The Netherlands
| | - Juan J Nogueira
- Department of Chemistry, Universidad Autonoma de Madrid, Madrid 28049, Spain
- IADCHEM, Institute for Advanced Research in Chemistry, Universidad Autonoma de Madrid, Madrid 28049, Spain
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20
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Warner-Schmidt J, Stogniew M, Mandell B, Rowland RS, Schmidt EF, Kelmendi B. Methylone is a rapid-acting neuroplastogen with less off-target activity than MDMA. Front Neurosci 2024; 18:1353131. [PMID: 38389788 PMCID: PMC10882719 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2024.1353131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a highly prevalent psychiatric disorder that can become chronic and debilitating when left untreated. Available pharmacotherapies are limited, take weeks to show modest benefit and remain ineffective for up to 40% of patients. Methylone is currently in clinical development for the treatment of PTSD. Preclinical studies show rapid, robust and long-lasting antidepressant-like and anxiolytic effects. The mechanism of action underlying these effects is not yet fully understood. This study investigated the downstream gene expression changes and signaling pathways affected by methylone in key brain areas linked to PTSD and MDD. It also sought to determine whether neuroplasticity-related genes were involved. We compared effects of methylone with MDMA to explore similarities and differences in their brain effects because MDMA-assisted psychotherapy has recently shown benefit in clinical trials for PTSD and methylone is a structural analog of MDMA. Methods Monoamine binding, uptake and release studies were performed and a high-throughput-screen evaluated agonist/antagonist activities at 168 GPCRs in vitro. We used RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) to probe drug-induced gene expression changes in the amygdala and frontal cortex, two brain areas responsible for emotional learning that are affected by PTSD and MDD. Rats were treated with methylone or MDMA (both 10 mg/kg, IP), and their responses were compared with controls. We performed functional enrichment analysis to identify which pathways were regulated by methylone and/or MDMA. We confirmed changes in gene expression using immunohistochemistry. Results Methylone, a monoamine uptake inhibitor and releaser, demonstrated no off-target effects at 168 GPCRs, unlike MDMA, which showed activity at 5HT2A and 5HT2C receptors. RNA-seq results revealed significant regulation of myelin-related genes in the amygdala, confirmed by immunohistochemistry. In the frontal cortex, methylone significantly upregulated genes implicated in neuroplasticity. Conclusion Results suggest that (1) methylone is a rapid-acting neuroplastogen that affects key brain substrates for PTSD and MDD and that (2) methylone appears to exhibit higher specificity and fewer off-target effects than MDMA. Together, these results are consistent with the reported clinical experiences of methylone and MDMA and bolster the potential use of methylone in the treatment of PTSD and, potentially, other neuropsychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Eric F Schmidt
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Benjamin Kelmendi
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
- US Department of Veterans Affairs, National Center for PTSD Clinical Neurosciences Division, West Haven, CT, United States
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21
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De Filippo R, Schmitz D. Synthetic surprise as the foundation of the psychedelic experience. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2024; 157:105538. [PMID: 38220035 PMCID: PMC10839673 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2024.105538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Revised: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 01/16/2024]
Abstract
Psychedelic agents, such as LSD and psilocybin, induce marked alterations in consciousness via activation of the 5-HT2A receptor (5-HT2ARs). We hypothesize that psychedelics enforce a state of synthetic surprise through the biased activation of the 5-HTRs system. This idea is informed by recent insights into the role of 5-HT in signaling surprise. The effects on consciousness, explained by the cognitive penetrability of perception, can be described within the predictive coding framework where surprise corresponds to prediction error, the mismatch between predictions and actual sensory input. Crucially, the precision afforded to the prediction error determines its effect on priors, enabling a dynamic interaction between top-down expectations and incoming sensory data. By integrating recent findings on predictive coding circuitry and 5-HT2ARs transcriptomic data, we propose a biological implementation with emphasis on the role of inhibitory interneurons. Implications arise for the clinical use of psychedelics, which may rely primarily on their inherent capacity to induce surprise in order to disrupt maladaptive patterns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto De Filippo
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Neuroscience Research Center, 10117 Berlin, Germany.
| | - Dietmar Schmitz
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Neuroscience Research Center, 10117 Berlin, Germany; German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany; Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Einstein Center for Neuroscience, 10117 Berlin, Germany; Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, NeuroCure Cluster of Excellence, 10117 Berlin, Germany; Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Bernstein Center for Computational Neuroscience, Philippstr. 13, 10115 Berlin, Germany
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22
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Freidel N, Kreuder L, Rabinovitch BS, Chen FY, Huang RST, Lewis EC. Psychedelics, epilepsy, and seizures: a review. Front Pharmacol 2024; 14:1326815. [PMID: 38283836 PMCID: PMC10811552 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1326815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 01/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Psychedelic compounds have been utilized by humans for centuries for medicinal, religious, and tribal purposes. Clinical trial data starting from the early 2000s and continuing today indicates that psychedelics are a clinically efficacious treatment for a variety of neurological and psychiatric disorders. However, all clinical trials examining these substances have excluded any individual with a past or current history of seizures, leaving a large cohort of epilepsy and non-epilepsy chronic seizure disorder patients without anywhere to turn for psychedelic-assisted therapy. These exclusions were made despite any significant evidence that clinically supervised psychedelic use causes or exacerbates seizures in this population. To date, no clinical trial or preclinical seizure model has demonstrated that psychedelics induce seizures. This review highlights several cases of individuals experiencing seizures or seizure remission following psychedelic use, with the overall trend being that psychedelics are safe for use in a controlled, supervised clinical setting. We also suggest future research directions for this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ninon Freidel
- Department of Clinical Research, Numinus Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Neuroscience, University of British Columbia Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Liliane Kreuder
- Department of Clinical Research, Numinus Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto Temerty Faculty of Medicine, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Brenden Samuel Rabinovitch
- Department of Clinical Research, Numinus Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Krembil Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Physiology, University of Toronto Temerty Faculty of Medicine, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Frank Yizhao Chen
- Department of Clinical Research, Numinus Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Research, Jamaican Medical Cannabis Corporation, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Ryan S. T. Huang
- Department of Clinical Research, Numinus Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Medicine, University of Toronto Temerty Faculty of Medicine, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Evan Cole Lewis
- Department of Clinical Research, Numinus Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Toronto Temerty Faculty of Medicine, Toronto, ON, Canada
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23
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Duan W, Cao D, Wang S, Cheng J. Serotonin 2A Receptor (5-HT 2AR) Agonists: Psychedelics and Non-Hallucinogenic Analogues as Emerging Antidepressants. Chem Rev 2024; 124:124-163. [PMID: 38033123 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.3c00375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2023]
Abstract
Psychedelics make up a group of psychoactive compounds that induce hallucinogenic effects by activating the serotonin 2A receptor (5-HT2AR). Clinical trials have demonstrated the traditional psychedelic substances like psilocybin as a class of rapid-acting and long-lasting antidepressants. However, there is a pressing need for rationally designed 5-HT2AR agonists that possess optimal pharmacological profiles in order to fully reveal the therapeutic potential of these agonists and identify safer drug candidates devoid of hallucinogenic effects. This Perspective provides an overview of the structure-activity relationships of existing 5-HT2AR agonists based on their chemical classifications and discusses recent advancements in understanding their molecular pharmacology at a structural level. The encouraging clinical outcomes of psychedelics in depression treatment have sparked drug discovery endeavors aimed at developing novel 5-HT2AR agonists with improved subtype selectivity and signaling bias properties, which could serve as safer and potentially nonhallucinogenic antidepressants. These efforts can be significantly expedited through the utilization of structure-based methods and functional selectivity-directed screening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenwen Duan
- iHuman Institute, ShanghaiTech University, 393 Middle Huaxia Road, Shanghai 201210, China
| | - Dongmei Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 320 Yueyang Road, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Sheng Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 320 Yueyang Road, Shanghai 200031, China
- Key Laboratory of Systems Health Science of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Science, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou 310024, China
| | - Jianjun Cheng
- iHuman Institute, ShanghaiTech University, 393 Middle Huaxia Road, Shanghai 201210, China
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, 393 Middle Huaxia Road, Shanghai 201210, China
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24
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Luppi AI, Girn M, Rosas FE, Timmermann C, Roseman L, Erritzoe D, Nutt DJ, Stamatakis EA, Spreng RN, Xing L, Huttner WB, Carhart-Harris RL. A role for the serotonin 2A receptor in the expansion and functioning of human transmodal cortex. Brain 2024; 147:56-80. [PMID: 37703310 DOI: 10.1093/brain/awad311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Revised: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Integrating independent but converging lines of research on brain function and neurodevelopment across scales, this article proposes that serotonin 2A receptor (5-HT2AR) signalling is an evolutionary and developmental driver and potent modulator of the macroscale functional organization of the human cerebral cortex. A wealth of evidence indicates that the anatomical and functional organization of the cortex follows a unimodal-to-transmodal gradient. Situated at the apex of this processing hierarchy-where it plays a central role in the integrative processes underpinning complex, human-defining cognition-the transmodal cortex has disproportionately expanded across human development and evolution. Notably, the adult human transmodal cortex is especially rich in 5-HT2AR expression and recent evidence suggests that, during early brain development, 5-HT2AR signalling on neural progenitor cells stimulates their proliferation-a critical process for evolutionarily-relevant cortical expansion. Drawing on multimodal neuroimaging and cross-species investigations, we argue that, by contributing to the expansion of the human cortex and being prevalent at the apex of its hierarchy in the adult brain, 5-HT2AR signalling plays a major role in both human cortical expansion and functioning. Owing to its unique excitatory and downstream cellular effects, neuronal 5-HT2AR agonism promotes neuroplasticity, learning and cognitive and psychological flexibility in a context-(hyper)sensitive manner with therapeutic potential. Overall, we delineate a dual role of 5-HT2ARs in enabling both the expansion and modulation of the human transmodal cortex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea I Luppi
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences and Division of Anaesthesia, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 0QQ, UK
- Leverhulme Centre for the Future of Intelligence, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 1SB, UK
- The Alan Turing Institute, London, NW1 2DB, UK
| | - Manesh Girn
- Montreal Neurological Institute, Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, McGill University, Montreal, H3A 2B4, Canada
- Psychedelics Division-Neuroscape, Department of Neurology, University of California SanFrancisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
| | - Fernando E Rosas
- Centre for Psychedelic Research, Department of Brain Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, SW7 2AZ, UK
- Data Science Institute, Imperial College London, London, SW7 2AZ, UK
- Centre for Complexity Science, Imperial College London, London, SW7 2AZ, UK
| | - Christopher Timmermann
- Centre for Psychedelic Research, Department of Brain Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, SW7 2AZ, UK
| | - Leor Roseman
- Centre for Psychedelic Research, Department of Brain Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, SW7 2AZ, UK
| | - David Erritzoe
- Centre for Psychedelic Research, Department of Brain Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, SW7 2AZ, UK
| | - David J Nutt
- Centre for Psychedelic Research, Department of Brain Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, SW7 2AZ, UK
| | - Emmanuel A Stamatakis
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences and Division of Anaesthesia, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 0QQ, UK
| | - R Nathan Spreng
- Montreal Neurological Institute, Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, McGill University, Montreal, H3A 2B4, Canada
| | - Lei Xing
- Max Planck Institute of Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics, Dresden, 01307, Germany
| | - Wieland B Huttner
- Max Planck Institute of Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics, Dresden, 01307, Germany
| | - Robin L Carhart-Harris
- Psychedelics Division-Neuroscape, Department of Neurology, University of California SanFrancisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
- Centre for Psychedelic Research, Department of Brain Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, SW7 2AZ, UK
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25
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Jerotic K, Vuust P, Kringelbach ML. Psychedelia: The interplay of music and psychedelics. Ann N Y Acad Sci 2024; 1531:12-28. [PMID: 37983198 DOI: 10.1111/nyas.15082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2023]
Abstract
Music and psychedelics have been intertwined throughout the existence of Homo sapiens, from the early shamanic rituals of the Americas and Africa to the modern use of psychedelic-assisted therapy for a variety of mental health conditions. Across such settings, music has been highly prized for its ability to guide the psychedelic experience. Here, we examine the interplay between music and psychedelics, starting by describing their association with the brain's functional hierarchy that is relied upon for music perception and its psychedelic-induced manipulation, as well as an exploration of the limited research on their mechanistic neural overlap. We explore music's role in Western psychedelic therapy and the use of music in indigenous psychedelic rituals, with a specific focus on ayahuasca and the Santo Daime Church. Furthermore, we explore work relating to the evolution and onset of music and psychedelic use. Finally, we consider music's potential to lead to altered states of consciousness in the absence of psychedelics as well as the development of psychedelic music. Here, we provide an overview of several perspectives on the interaction between psychedelic use and music-a topic with growing interest given increasing excitement relating to the therapeutic efficacy of psychedelic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarina Jerotic
- Centre for Eudaimonia and Human Flourishing, Linacre College, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Center for Music in the Brain, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University & The Royal Academy of Music Aarhus/Aalborg, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Peter Vuust
- Center for Music in the Brain, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University & The Royal Academy of Music Aarhus/Aalborg, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Morten L Kringelbach
- Centre for Eudaimonia and Human Flourishing, Linacre College, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Center for Music in the Brain, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University & The Royal Academy of Music Aarhus/Aalborg, Aarhus, Denmark
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26
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Cameron LP, Benetatos J, Lewis V, Bonniwell EM, Jaster AM, Moliner R, Castrén E, McCorvy JD, Palner M, Aguilar-Valles A. Beyond the 5-HT 2A Receptor: Classic and Nonclassic Targets in Psychedelic Drug Action. J Neurosci 2023; 43:7472-7482. [PMID: 37940583 PMCID: PMC10634557 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.1384-23.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2023] [Revised: 08/13/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Serotonergic psychedelics, such as psilocybin and LSD, have garnered significant attention in recent years for their potential therapeutic effects and unique mechanisms of action. These compounds exert their primary effects through activating serotonin 5-HT2A receptors, found predominantly in cortical regions. By interacting with these receptors, serotonergic psychedelics induce alterations in perception, cognition, and emotions, leading to the characteristic psychedelic experience. One of the most crucial aspects of serotonergic psychedelics is their ability to promote neuroplasticity, the formation of new neural connections, and rewire neuronal networks. This neuroplasticity is believed to underlie their therapeutic potential for various mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders. In this mini-review, we will discuss how the 5-HT2A receptor activation is just one facet of the complex mechanisms of action of serotonergic psychedelics. They also interact with other serotonin receptor subtypes, such as 5-HT1A and 5-HT2C receptors, and with neurotrophin receptors (e.g., tropomyosin receptor kinase B). These interactions contribute to the complexity of their effects on perception, mood, and cognition. Moreover, as psychedelic research advances, there is an increasing interest in developing nonhallucinogenic derivatives of these drugs to create safer and more targeted medications for psychiatric disorders by removing the hallucinogenic properties while retaining the potential therapeutic benefits. These nonhallucinogenic derivatives would offer patients therapeutic advantages without the intense psychedelic experience, potentially reducing the risks of adverse reactions. Finally, we discuss the potential of psychedelics as substrates for post-translational modification of proteins as part of their mechanism of action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsay P Cameron
- Department of Psychiatry, Stanford University, Palo Alto 94305, California
| | - Joseph Benetatos
- Department of Neurosciences, University of California-San Diego, La Jolla 92093, California
| | - Vern Lewis
- Department of Neuroscience, Carleton University, Ottawa K1S 5B6, Ontario Canada
| | - Emma M Bonniwell
- Department of Cell Biology, Neurobiology, and Anatomy, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee 53226, Wisconsin
| | - Alaina M Jaster
- Pharmacology and Toxicology, Physiology and Biophysics, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond 23298, Virginia
| | - Rafael Moliner
- Neuroscience Center, HiLIFE and Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki 00014, Finland
| | - Eero Castrén
- Neuroscience Center, HiLIFE and Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki 00014, Finland
| | - John D McCorvy
- Department of Cell Biology, Neurobiology, and Anatomy, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee 53226, Wisconsin
| | - Mikael Palner
- Clinical Physiology and Nuclear Medicine, Department Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense DK-2100, Denmark
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27
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Kovacevich A, Weleff J, Claytor B, Barnett BS. Three Cases of Reported Improvement in Microsmia and Anosmia Following Naturalistic Use of Psilocybin and LSD. J Psychoactive Drugs 2023; 55:672-679. [PMID: 37650700 DOI: 10.1080/02791072.2023.2253538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2023] [Revised: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Abstract
Cultural awareness of anosmia and microsmia has recently increased due to their association with COVID-19, though treatment for these conditions is limited. A growing body of online media claims that individuals have noticed improvement in anosmia and microsmia following classic psychedelic use. We report what we believe to be the first three cases recorded in the academic literature of improvement in olfactory impairment after psychedelic use. In the first case, a man who developed microsmia after a respiratory infection experienced improvement in smell after the use of 6 g of psilocybin containing mushrooms. In the second case, a woman with anosmia since childhood reported olfactory improvement after ingestion of 100 µg of lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD). In the third case, a woman with COVID-19-related anosmia reported olfactory improvement after microdosing 0.1 g of psilocybin mushrooms three times. Following a discussion of these cases, we explore potential mechanisms for psychedelic-facilitated improvement in olfactory impairment, including serotonergic effects, increased neuroplasticity, and anti-inflammatory effects. Given the need for novel treatments for olfactory dysfunction, increasing reports describing improvement in these conditions following psychedelic use and potential biological plausibility, we believe that the possible therapeutic benefits of psychedelics for these conditions deserve further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jeremy Weleff
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychology, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, Cleveland, USA
| | | | - Brian S Barnett
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychology, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, USA
- Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, USA
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28
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Custodio RJP, Ortiz DM, Lee HJ, Sayson LV, Kim M, Lee YS, Kim KM, Cheong JH, Kim HJ. Serotonin 2C receptors are also important in head-twitch responses in male mice. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2023:10.1007/s00213-023-06482-9. [PMID: 37882810 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-023-06482-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023]
Abstract
RATIONALE Serotonergic psychedelics exert their effects via their high affinity for serotonin (5-HT) receptors, particularly through activating 5-HT2A receptors (5-HT2AR), employing the frontal cortex-dependent head-twitch response (HTR). Although universally believed to be so, studies have not yet fully ascertained whether 5-HT2AR activation is the sole initiator of these psychedelic effects. This is because not all 5-HT2AR agonists exhibit similar pharmacologic properties. OBJECTIVE This study aims to identify and discriminate the roles of 5-HT2AR and 5-HT2CR in the HTR induced by Methallylescaline (MAL) and 4-Methyl-2,5,β-trimethoxyphenethylamine (BOD) in male mice. Also, an analysis of their potential neurotoxic properties was evaluated. METHODS Male mice treated with MAL and BOD were evaluated in different behavioral paradigms targeting HTR and neurotoxicity effects. Drug affinity, pharmacological blocking, and molecular analysis were also conducted to support the behavioral findings. The HTR induced by DOI has been extensively characterized in male mice, making it a good positive control for this study, specifically for comparing the pharmacological effects of our test compounds. RESULTS The activation of 5-HT2CR, alone or in concert with 5-HT2AR, produces a comparable degree of HTRs (at a dose of 1 mg·kg-1), with divergent 5-HT2CR- and 5-HT2AR-Gqα11-mediated signaling and enhanced neurotoxic properties (at a dose of 30 mg·kg-1) coupled with activated pro-inflammatory cytokines. These findings show these compounds' potential psychedelic and neurotoxic effects in male mice. CONCLUSION These findings showed that while 5-HT2AR is the main initiator of HTR, the 5-HT2CR also has a distinct property that renders it effective in inducing HTR in male mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raly James Perez Custodio
- Networking Group Aging, Department of Ergonomics, Leibniz Research Centre for Working Environment and Human Factors - IfADo, Ardeystrasse 67, Dortmund, 44139, Germany.
| | - Darlene Mae Ortiz
- Uimyung Research Institute for Neuroscience, Department of Pharmacy, Sahmyook University, 815 Hwarang-ro, Nowon-gu, Seoul, 01795, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun Jun Lee
- Uimyung Research Institute for Neuroscience, Department of Pharmacy, Sahmyook University, 815 Hwarang-ro, Nowon-gu, Seoul, 01795, Republic of Korea
| | - Leandro Val Sayson
- Uimyung Research Institute for Neuroscience, Department of Pharmacy, Sahmyook University, 815 Hwarang-ro, Nowon-gu, Seoul, 01795, Republic of Korea
| | - Mikyung Kim
- Department of Chemistry & Life Science, Sahmyook University, 815 Hwarang-ro, Nowon-gu, Seoul, 01795, Republic of Korea
| | - Yong Sup Lee
- Medicinal Chemistry Laboratory, Department of Pharmacy & Department of Life and Nanopharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Kyung Hee University, 26 Kyungheedae-ro, Seoul, 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyeong-Man Kim
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Chonnam National University, 77 Yongbong-ro, Buk-gu, Gwangju, 61186, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae Hoon Cheong
- Institute for New Drug Development, College of Pharmacy, Jeonbuk National University, 567 Baekje-daero, Deokjin-gu, Jeonju, Jeollabuk-do, 54896, Republic of Korea.
| | - Hee Jin Kim
- Uimyung Research Institute for Neuroscience, Department of Pharmacy, Sahmyook University, 815 Hwarang-ro, Nowon-gu, Seoul, 01795, Republic of Korea.
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Zhu H, Liu X, Wang X, Li Y, Ma F, Tan B, Zhou P, Fu F, Su R. Gβγ subunit inhibitor decreases DOM-induced head twitch response via the PLCβ/IP3/Ca 2+/ERK and cAMP signaling pathways. Eur J Pharmacol 2023; 957:176038. [PMID: 37657742 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2023.176038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2023] [Revised: 08/17/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/03/2023]
Abstract
AIMS (-)-2,5-dimethoxy-4-methylamphetamine (DOM) induces the head-twitch response (HTR) primarily by activating the serotonin 5-hydroxytryptamine 2A receptor (5-HT2A receptor) in mice. However, the mechanisms underlying 5-HT2A receptor activation and the HTR remain elusive. Gβγ subunits are a potential treatment target in numerous diseases. The present study investigated the mechanism whereby Gβγ subunits influence DOM-induced HTR. MAIN METHODS The effects of the Gβγ inhibitor 3',4',5',6'-tetrahydroxyspiro[2-benzofuran-3,9'-xanthene]-1-one (gallein) and antagonistic peptide βARKct (β-adrenergic receptor kinase C-terminal fragment) on DOM-induced HTR were studied via an HTR test. The activation of the phospholipase C β (PLCβ)/inositol triphosphate (IP3)/calcium (Ca2+) signaling pathway and extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) following Gβγ subunit inhibition was detected by western blotting, Homogeneous Time-Resolved Fluorescence (HTRF) inositol phosphate (IP1) assay and Fluorometric Imaging Plate Reader (FLIPR) calcium 6 assay. The Gβγ subunit-mediated regulation of cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) was assessed via a GloSensor™ cAMP assay. KEY FINDINGS The Gβγ subunit inhibitors gallein and βARKct reduced DOM-induced HTR in C57BL/6J mice. Like the 5-HT2A receptor-selective antagonist (R)-[2,3-di(methoxy)phenyl]-[1-[2-(4-fluorophenyl)ethyl]piperidin-4-yl]methanol (M100907), gallein inhibited PLCβ phosphorylation (pPLCβ), IP1 production, Ca2+ transients, ERK1/2 phosphorylation (pERK1/2) and cAMP accumulation induced by DOM in human embryonic kidney (HEK) 293T cells stably or transiently transfected with the human 5-HT2A receptor. Moreover, PLCβ protein inhibitor 1-[6-[[(8R,9S,13S,14S,17S)-3-methoxy-13-methyl-6,7,8,9,11,12,14,15,16,17-decahydrocyclopenta[a]phenanthren-17-yl]amino]hexyl]pyrrole-2,5-dione (U73122) (10 nmol/mouse), intracellular Ca2+ blocker 6-[6-[6-[5-acetamido-4,6-dihydroxy-2-(sulfooxymethyl)oxan-3-yl]oxy-2-carboxy-4-hydroxy-5-sulfooxyoxan-3-yl]oxy-2-(hydroxymethyl)-5-(sulfoamino)-4-sulfooxyoxan-3-yl]oxy-3,4-dihydroxy-5-sulfooxyoxane-2-carboxylic acid (heparin) (5 nmol/mouse), L-type Ca2+ channel blocker 3-O-(2-methoxyethyl) 5-O-propan-2-yl 2,6-dimethyl-4-(3-nitrophenyl)-1,4-dihydropyridine-3,5-dicarboxylate (nimodipine) (4 mg/kg), mitogen extracellular regulating kinase 1/2 (MEK1/2) inhibitor (Z)-3-amino-3-(4-aminophenyl)sulfanyl-2-[2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]prop-2-enenitrile (SL327) (30 mg/kg), and Gαs protein selective antagonist 4,4',4″,4‴-(Carbonylbis-(imino-5,1,3-benzenetriylbis(carbonylimino)))tetrakisbenzene-1,3-disulfonic acid (NF449) (10 nmol/mouse) reduced DOM-induced HTR in C57BL/6J mice. SIGNIFICANCE The Gβγ subunits potentially mediate the HTR after 5-HT2A receptor activation via the PLCβ/IP3/Ca2+/ERK1/2 and cAMP signaling pathways. Inhibitors targeting the Gβγ subunits potentially inhibit the hallucinogenic effects of 5-HT2A receptor agonists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huili Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing Key Laboratory of Neuropsychopharmacology, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, 27th Taiping Road, Beijing, 100850, China; School of Pharmacy, Yantai University, Yantai, 264005, China
| | - Xiaoqian Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing Key Laboratory of Neuropsychopharmacology, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, 27th Taiping Road, Beijing, 100850, China
| | - Xiaoxuan Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing Key Laboratory of Neuropsychopharmacology, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, 27th Taiping Road, Beijing, 100850, China
| | - Yulei Li
- State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing Key Laboratory of Neuropsychopharmacology, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, 27th Taiping Road, Beijing, 100850, China
| | - Fang Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing Key Laboratory of Neuropsychopharmacology, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, 27th Taiping Road, Beijing, 100850, China
| | - Bo Tan
- State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing Key Laboratory of Neuropsychopharmacology, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, 27th Taiping Road, Beijing, 100850, China
| | - Peilan Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing Key Laboratory of Neuropsychopharmacology, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, 27th Taiping Road, Beijing, 100850, China.
| | - Fenghua Fu
- School of Pharmacy, Yantai University, Yantai, 264005, China
| | - Ruibin Su
- State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing Key Laboratory of Neuropsychopharmacology, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, 27th Taiping Road, Beijing, 100850, China.
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Ferri BG, de Novais CO, Bonani RS, de Barros WA, de Fátima Â, Vilela FC, Giusti-Paiva A. Psychoactive substances 25H-NBOMe and 25H-NBOH induce antidepressant-like behavior in male rats. Eur J Pharmacol 2023; 955:175926. [PMID: 37479015 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2023.175926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2023] [Revised: 06/18/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/23/2023]
Abstract
Ring-substituted phenethylamines are believed to induce psychedelic effects primarily by interacting with 5-hydroxytryptamine 2 (5-HT2A) receptors in the brain. We assessed the effect of the psychedelic substances 25H-NBOMe and 25H-NBOH on the depressive-like behavior of male adult rats. Naive Wistar rats were divided into groups to assess the effects of different doses (0.1 mg/kg, 1 mg/kg, and 3 mg/kg) of 25H-NBOMe and 25H-NBOH. The substances were administered intraperitoneally and the hallucinogenic properties were evaluated using the head twitch response test (HTR). Additionally, we assessed their locomotor activity in the open field test (OFT) and depressive-like behavior in the forced swimming test (FST). Our data demonstrated that all doses of synthetic psychedelic substances evaluated exhibited hallucinogenic effects. Interestingly, we observed that both 25H-NBOMe and 25H-NBOH produced a significantly greater motivation to escape in the FST, compared to the control group. Furthermore, we found no significant differences in locomotor activity during the OFT, except for the dose of 3 mg/kg, which induced a reduction in locomotion. This study provides new insights into a potential psychedelic substance, specifically by demonstrating the previously unknown antidepressant properties of a single dose of both 25H-NBOMe and 25H-NBOH. These findings contribute to the ongoing progress of experimental psychiatry toward developing safe and effective clinical practices in the field of psychedelics research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara G Ferri
- Programa de Pós-Graduação Multicêntrico Em Ciências Fisiológicas (PPGMCF), Universidade Federal de Alfenas (Unifal-MG), Alfenas, MG, Brazil
| | - Cintia O de Novais
- Programa de Pós-Graduação Multicêntrico Em Ciências Fisiológicas (PPGMCF), Universidade Federal de Alfenas (Unifal-MG), Alfenas, MG, Brazil
| | - Raquel S Bonani
- Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal de Alfenas (Unifal-MG), Alfenas, MG, Brazil
| | - Wellington A de Barros
- Instituto de Química da Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Ângelo de Fátima
- Instituto de Química da Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Fabiana C Vilela
- Programa de Pós-Graduação Em Biociências (PPGB), Universidade Federal de Alfenas (Unifal-MG), Alfenas, MG, Brazil
| | - Alexandre Giusti-Paiva
- Programa de Pós-Graduação Multicêntrico Em Ciências Fisiológicas (PPGMCF), Universidade Federal de Alfenas (Unifal-MG), Alfenas, MG, Brazil; Departamento de Ciências Fisiológicas, Centro de Ciências Biológicas da Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina (UFSC), Florianópolis, SC, Brazil.
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Kalfas M, Taylor RH, Tsapekos D, Young AH. Psychedelics for treatment resistant depression: are they game changers? Expert Opin Pharmacother 2023; 24:2117-2132. [PMID: 37947195 DOI: 10.1080/14656566.2023.2281582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION A new era of treatment for adults with treatment-resistant depression (TRD), which involves psychedelic substances, is dawning. Emerging evidence indicates that psychedelics can exert antidepressant effects through multiple neurobiological and psychological mechanisms. However, it remains to be seen if these new treatments will revolutionize the treatment of TRD. AREAS COVERED The present review focuses on the efficacy of serotoninergic psychedelics psilocybin, lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT), ayahuasca, 5-methoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine (5-MeO-DMT) and mescaline (3,4,5-trimethoxyphenethylamine), as well as 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), for TRD. A systematic search was conducted for psilocybin in TRD as emerging trials had not yet been subject to review. A narrative review summarized findings on other psychedelics. EXPERT OPINION Psychedelic therapy has created a paradigm shift in the treatment of TRD, as it can maximize therapeutic benefits and minimize potential risks. Psilocybin holds promise as a potential game-changer in the treatment of TRD, with initial evidence suggesting a rapid antidepressant effect sustained for some responders for at least 3 months. Nevertheless, further adequately powered, double-blind, comparator-controlled trials are required to explore and clarify the mechanisms of action and long-term effects of psychedelics in TRD. Psychedelics also hold promise for other psychiatric conditions, such as bipolar depression and post-traumatic stress disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michail Kalfas
- Department of Psychological Medicine, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Rosie H Taylor
- Department of Psychological Medicine, King's College London, London, UK
| | | | - Allan H Young
- Department of Psychological Medicine, King's College London, London, UK
- South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
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32
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Jaster AM, González-Maeso J. Mechanisms and molecular targets surrounding the potential therapeutic effects of psychedelics. Mol Psychiatry 2023; 28:3595-3612. [PMID: 37759040 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-023-02274-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
Psychedelics, also known as classical hallucinogens, have been investigated for decades due to their potential therapeutic effects in the treatment of neuropsychiatric and substance use disorders. The results from clinical trials have shown promise for the use of psychedelics to alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety, as well as to promote substantial decreases in the use of nicotine and alcohol. While these studies provide compelling evidence for the powerful subjective experience and prolonged therapeutic adaptations, the underlying molecular reasons for these robust and clinically meaningful improvements are still poorly understood. Preclinical studies assessing the targets and circuitry of the post-acute effects of classical psychedelics are ongoing. Current literature is split between a serotonin 5-HT2A receptor (5-HT2AR)-dependent or -independent signaling pathway, as researchers are attempting to harness the mechanisms behind the sustained post-acute therapeutically relevant effects. A combination of molecular, behavioral, and genetic techniques in neuropharmacology has begun to show promise for elucidating these mechanisms. As the field progresses, increasing evidence points towards the importance of the subjective experience induced by psychedelic-assisted therapy, but without further cross validation between clinical and preclinical research, the why behind the experience and its translational validity may be lost.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alaina M Jaster
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, VA, 23298, USA
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, VA, 23298, USA
| | - Javier González-Maeso
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, VA, 23298, USA.
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Tomašević N, Vujović M, Kostić E, Ragavendran V, Arsić B, Matić SL, Božović M, Fioravanti R, Proia E, Ragno R, Mladenović M. Molecular Docking Assessment of Cathinones as 5-HT 2AR Ligands: Developing of Predictive Structure-Based Bioactive Conformations and Three-Dimensional Structure-Activity Relationships Models for Future Recognition of Abuse Drugs. Molecules 2023; 28:6236. [PMID: 37687065 PMCID: PMC10488745 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28176236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2023] [Revised: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Commercially available cathinones are drugs of long-term abuse drugs whose pharmacology is fairly well understood. While their psychedelic effects are associated with 5-HT2AR, the enclosed study summarizes efforts to shed light on the pharmacodynamic profiles, not yet known at the receptor level, using molecular docking and three-dimensional quantitative structure-activity relationship (3-D QSAR) studies. The bioactive conformations of cathinones were modeled by AutoDock Vina and were used to build structure-based (SB) 3-D QSAR models using the Open3DQSAR engine. Graphical inspection of the results led to the depiction of a 3-D structure analysis-activity relationship (SAR) scheme that could be used as a guideline for molecular determinants by which any untested cathinone molecule can be predicted as a potential 5-HT2AR binder prior to experimental evaluation. The obtained models, which showed a good agreement with the chemical properties of co-crystallized 5-HT2AR ligands, proved to be valuable for future virtual screening campaigns to recognize unused cathinones and similar compounds, such as 5-HT2AR ligands, minimizing both time and financial resources for the characterization of their psychedelic effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nevena Tomašević
- Kragujevac Center for Computational Biochemistry, Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Kragujevac, Radoja Domanovića 12, P.O. Box 60, 34000 Kragujevac, Serbia
| | - Maja Vujović
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Niš, Bulevar Dr. Zorana Đinđića 81, 18000 Niš, Serbia; (M.V.); (E.K.)
| | - Emilija Kostić
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Niš, Bulevar Dr. Zorana Đinđića 81, 18000 Niš, Serbia; (M.V.); (E.K.)
| | - Venkatesan Ragavendran
- Department of Physics, Sri Chandrasekharendra Saraswathi Viswa Mahavidyalaya, Kanchipuram 631561, Tamil Nadu, India;
| | - Biljana Arsić
- Faculty of Sciences and Mathematics, University of Niš, Višegradska 33, 18000 Niš, Serbia;
| | - Sanja Lj. Matić
- Department of Science, Institute for Informational Technologies, University of Kragujevac, Jovana Cvijića bb, 34000 Kragujevac, Serbia;
| | - Mijat Božović
- Faculty of Science and Mathematics, University of Montenegro, Džordža Vašingtona bb, 81000 Podgorica, Montenegro;
| | - Rossella Fioravanti
- Department of Drug Chemistry and Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy and Medicine, Rome Sapienza University, P.le A. Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy;
| | - Eleonora Proia
- Rome Center for Molecular Design, Department of Drug Chemistry and Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy and Medicine, Rome Sapienza University, P.le A. Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy; (E.P.); (R.R.)
| | - Rino Ragno
- Rome Center for Molecular Design, Department of Drug Chemistry and Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy and Medicine, Rome Sapienza University, P.le A. Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy; (E.P.); (R.R.)
| | - Milan Mladenović
- Kragujevac Center for Computational Biochemistry, Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Kragujevac, Radoja Domanovića 12, P.O. Box 60, 34000 Kragujevac, Serbia
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34
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Pottie E, Poulie CBM, Simon IA, Harpsøe K, D’Andrea L, Komarov IV, Gloriam DE, Jensen AA, Kristensen JL, Stove CP. Structure-Activity Assessment and In-Depth Analysis of Biased Agonism in a Set of Phenylalkylamine 5-HT 2A Receptor Agonists. ACS Chem Neurosci 2023; 14:2727-2742. [PMID: 37474114 PMCID: PMC10401645 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.3c00267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/09/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Serotonergic psychedelics are described to have activation of the serotonin 2A receptor (5-HT2A) as their main pharmacological action. Despite their relevance, the molecular mechanisms underlying the psychedelic effects induced by certain 5-HT2A agonists remain elusive. One of the proposed hypotheses is the occurrence of biased agonism, defined as the preferential activation of certain signaling pathways over others. This study comparatively monitored the efficiency of a diverse panel of 4-position-substituted (and N-benzyl-derived) phenylalkylamines to induce recruitment of β-arrestin2 (βarr2) or miniGαq to the 5-HT2A, allowing us to assess structure-activity relationships and biased agonism. All test compounds exhibited agonist properties with a relatively large range of both EC50 and Emax values. Interestingly, the lipophilicity of the 2C-X phenethylamines was correlated with their efficacy in both assays but yielded a stronger correlation in the miniGαq- than in the βarr2-assay. Molecular docking suggested that accommodation of the 4-substituent of the 2C-X analogues in a hydrophobic pocket between transmembrane helices 4 and 5 of 5-HT2A may contribute to this differential effect. Aside from previously used standard conditions (lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) as a reference agonist and a 2 h activation profile to assess a compound's activity), serotonin was included as a second reference agonist, and the compounds' activities were also assessed using the first 30 min of the activation profile. Under all assessed circumstances, the qualitative structure-activity relationships remained unchanged. Furthermore, the use of two reference agonists allowed for the estimation of both "benchmark bias" (relative to LSD) and "physiology bias" (relative to serotonin).
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Affiliation(s)
- Eline Pottie
- Laboratory
of Toxicology, Department of Bioanalysis, Faculty of Pharmaceutical
Sciences, Ghent University, Campus Heymans, Ottergemsesteenweg
460, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Christian B. M. Poulie
- Department
of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Icaro A. Simon
- Department
of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Kasper Harpsøe
- Department
of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Laura D’Andrea
- Department
of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - David E. Gloriam
- Department
of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Anders A. Jensen
- Department
of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jesper L. Kristensen
- Department
of Drug Design and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Christophe P. Stove
- Laboratory
of Toxicology, Department of Bioanalysis, Faculty of Pharmaceutical
Sciences, Ghent University, Campus Heymans, Ottergemsesteenweg
460, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium
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Brys I, Barrientos SA, Ward JE, Wallander J, Petersson P, Halje P. 5-HT2AR and NMDAR psychedelics induce similar hyper-synchronous states in the rat cognitive-limbic cortex-basal ganglia system. Commun Biol 2023; 6:737. [PMID: 37495733 PMCID: PMC10372079 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-023-05093-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The profound changes in perception and cognition induced by psychedelic drugs are thought to act on several levels, including increased glutamatergic activity, altered functional connectivity and an aberrant increase in high-frequency oscillations. To bridge these different levels of observation, we have here performed large-scale multi-structure recordings in freely behaving rats treated with 5-HT2AR psychedelics (LSD, DOI) and NMDAR psychedelics (ketamine, PCP). While interneurons and principal cells showed disparate firing rate modulations for the two classes of psychedelics, the local field potentials revealed a shared pattern of synchronized high-frequency oscillations in the ventral striatum and several cortical areas. Remarkably, the phase differences between structures were close to zero, corresponding to <1 ms delays. Likely, this hypersynchrony has major effects on the integration of information across neuronal systems and we propose that it is a key contributor to changes in perception and cognition during psychedelic drug use. Potentially, similar mechanisms could induce hallucinations and delusions in psychotic disorders and would constitute promising targets for new antipsychotic treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivani Brys
- The Group for Integrative Neurophysiology and Neurotechnology, Department of Experimental Medical Science, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
- Research Group in Neuroscience and Experimental Psychology, Federal University of Vale do São Francisco, Petrolina, Brazil
- Department of Integrative Medical Biology, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Sebastian A Barrientos
- The Group for Integrative Neurophysiology and Neurotechnology, Department of Experimental Medical Science, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
- Department of Integrative Medical Biology, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Jon Ezra Ward
- The Group for Integrative Neurophysiology and Neurotechnology, Department of Experimental Medical Science, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Jonathan Wallander
- The Group for Integrative Neurophysiology and Neurotechnology, Department of Experimental Medical Science, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Per Petersson
- The Group for Integrative Neurophysiology and Neurotechnology, Department of Experimental Medical Science, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
- Department of Integrative Medical Biology, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Pär Halje
- The Group for Integrative Neurophysiology and Neurotechnology, Department of Experimental Medical Science, Lund University, Lund, Sweden.
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Takaba R, Ibi D, Yoshida K, Hosomi E, Kawase R, Kitagawa H, Goto H, Achiwa M, Mizutani K, Maede K, González-Maeso J, Kitagaki S, Hiramatsu M. Ethopharmacological evaluation of antidepressant-like effect of serotonergic psychedelics in C57BL/6J male mice. RESEARCH SQUARE 2023:rs.3.rs-3138705. [PMID: 37461593 PMCID: PMC10350166 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-3138705/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/27/2023]
Abstract
Serotonergic psychedelics such as psilocybin, lysergic acid diethylamide, and DOI exert a hallucinatory effect through serotonin 5-HT 2A receptor (5-HT2A) activation. Recent studies have revealed that serotonergic psychedelics have therapeutic potential for neuropsychiatric disorders, including major depressive and anxiety-related disorders. However, the involvement of 5-HT2A in mediating the therapeutic effects of these drugs remains unclear. In this study, we ethopharmacologically analyzed the role of 5-HT2A in the occurrence of anxiolytic-and antidepressant-like effects of serotonergic psychedelics such as psilocin, an active metabolite of psilocybin, DOI, and TCB-2 in mice. Mice with acute intraperitoneal psychedelic treatment exhibited significantly shorter immobility times in the forced swimming test (FST) and tail-suspension test (TST) than vehicle-treated control mice 24 h post-treatment. These effects were eliminated by pretreatment with volinanserin, a 5-HT2A antagonist. Surprisingly, the decreasing immobility time in the FST in response to acute psilocin treatment was sustained for at least three weeks. In the novelty-suppressed feeding test (NSFT), the latency to feed, an indicator of anxiety-like behavior, was decreased by acute administration of psilocin; however, pretreatment with volinanserin did not diminish this effect. In contrast, DOI and TCB-2 did not affect the NSFT performance in mice. Furthermore, psilocin, DOI, and TCB-2 treatment did not affect the spontaneous locomotor activity or head-twitch response, a hallucination-like behavior in rodents. These results suggest that 5-HT2A contributes to the antidepressant effects of serotonergic psychedelics rather than an anxiolytic effects.
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McClure EW, Daniels RN. Classics in Chemical Neuroscience: Dextromethorphan (DXM). ACS Chem Neurosci 2023. [PMID: 37290117 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.3c00088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Dextromethorphan (DXM) was introduced in 1958 as the first non-opioid cough suppressant and is indicated for multiple psychiatric disorders. It has been the most used over-the-counter cough suppressant since its emergence. However, individuals quickly noticed an intoxicating and psychedelic effect if they ingested large doses. DXM's antagonism at N-methyl-d-aspartate receptors (NMDAr) is thought to underly its efficacy in treating acute cough, but supratherapeutic doses mimic the activity of dissociative hallucinogens, such as phencyclidine and ketamine. In this Review we will discuss DXM's synthesis, manufacturing information, drug metabolism, pharmacology, adverse effects, recreational use, abuse potential, and its history and importance in therapy to present DXM as a true classic in chemical neuroscience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elliot W McClure
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Lipscomb University College of Pharmacy, Nashville, Tennessee 37204, United States
| | - R Nathan Daniels
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Union University College of Pharmacy, Jackson, Tennessee 38305, United States
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Saha S, González-Maeso J. The crosstalk between 5-HT 2AR and mGluR2 in schizophrenia. Neuropharmacology 2023; 230:109489. [PMID: 36889432 PMCID: PMC10103009 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2023.109489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2023] [Revised: 02/26/2023] [Accepted: 03/05/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023]
Abstract
Schizophrenia is a severe brain disorder that usually produces a lifetime of disability. First generation or typical antipsychotics such as haloperidol and second generation or atypical antipsychotics such as clozapine and risperidone remain the current standard for schizophrenia treatment. In some patients with schizophrenia, antipsychotics produce complete remission of positive symptoms, such as hallucinations and delusions. However, antipsychotic drugs are ineffective against cognitive deficits and indeed treated schizophrenia patients have small improvements or even deterioration in several cognitive domains. This underlines the need for novel and more efficient therapeutic targets for schizophrenia treatment. Serotonin and glutamate have been identified as key parts of two neurotransmitter systems involved in fundamental brain processes. Serotonin (or 5-hydroxytryptamine) 5-HT2A receptor (5-HT2AR) and metabotropic glutamate 2 receptor (mGluR2) are G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) that interact at epigenetic and functional levels. These two receptors can form GPCR heteromeric complexes through which their pharmacology, function and trafficking becomes affected. Here we review past and current research on the 5-HT2AR-mGluR2 heterocomplex and its potential implication in schizophrenia and antipsychotic drug action. This article is part of the Special Issue on "The receptor-receptor interaction as a new target for therapy".
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Affiliation(s)
- Somdatta Saha
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, VA, 23298, USA
| | - Javier González-Maeso
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, VA, 23298, USA.
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39
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Okray Z, Jacob PF, Stern C, Desmond K, Otto N, Talbot CB, Vargas-Gutierrez P, Waddell S. Multisensory learning binds neurons into a cross-modal memory engram. Nature 2023; 617:777-784. [PMID: 37100911 PMCID: PMC10208976 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-023-06013-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2023] [Indexed: 04/28/2023]
Abstract
Associating multiple sensory cues with objects and experience is a fundamental brain process that improves object recognition and memory performance. However, neural mechanisms that bind sensory features during learning and augment memory expression are unknown. Here we demonstrate multisensory appetitive and aversive memory in Drosophila. Combining colours and odours improved memory performance, even when each sensory modality was tested alone. Temporal control of neuronal function revealed visually selective mushroom body Kenyon cells (KCs) to be required for enhancement of both visual and olfactory memory after multisensory training. Voltage imaging in head-fixed flies showed that multisensory learning binds activity between streams of modality-specific KCs so that unimodal sensory input generates a multimodal neuronal response. Binding occurs between regions of the olfactory and visual KC axons, which receive valence-relevant dopaminergic reinforcement, and is propagated downstream. Dopamine locally releases GABAergic inhibition to permit specific microcircuits within KC-spanning serotonergic neurons to function as an excitatory bridge between the previously 'modality-selective' KC streams. Cross-modal binding thereby expands the KCs representing the memory engram for each modality into those representing the other. This broadening of the engram improves memory performance after multisensory learning and permits a single sensory feature to retrieve the memory of the multimodal experience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeynep Okray
- Centre for Neural Circuits & Behaviour, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.
| | - Pedro F Jacob
- Centre for Neural Circuits & Behaviour, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Ciara Stern
- Centre for Neural Circuits & Behaviour, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Kieran Desmond
- Centre for Neural Circuits & Behaviour, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Nils Otto
- Centre for Neural Circuits & Behaviour, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Institute of Anatomy and Molecular Neurobiology, Westfälische Wilhelms-Universität Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Clifford B Talbot
- Centre for Neural Circuits & Behaviour, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | | | - Scott Waddell
- Centre for Neural Circuits & Behaviour, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.
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Zhang Y, Wang Y, Zhang K, Liang X, Guan J, Jin J, Zhang Y, Xu F, Yang L, Fu J. Profile of 5-HT 2A receptor involved in signaling cascades associated to intracellular inflammation and apoptosis in hepatocytes and its role in carbon tetrachloride-induced hepatotoxicity. Cell Signal 2023; 105:110612. [PMID: 36709823 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2023.110612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2022] [Revised: 01/14/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2023] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Previously, we found that the 5-HT2A receptor plays a key role in cell injury. However, the mechanism by which the 5-HT2A receptor mediates intracellular processes remains unclear. In this study, we aimed to clarify this intracellular process in hepatocyte LO2 cells and evaluate its role in CCl4-induced hepatotoxicity in mice. In vitro, both the agonist and overexpression of 5-HT2A receptor could promote 5-HT degradation by upregulating the expression of 5-HT synthases and monoamine oxidase-A (MAO-A) to cause overproduction of ROS in mitochondria. We refer to this as the activation of the 5-HT degradation system (5DS) axis, which leads to the phosphorylation of JNK, p38 MAPK, STAT3, and NF-κB; upregulation of Bax, cleaved-caspase3, and cleaved-caspase9; and downregulation of Bcl-2, followed by apoptosis and oversecretion of TNF-α and IL-1β in cells. This phenomenon could be markedly blocked by the 5-HT2A receptor antagonist, MAO-A inhibitor, or gene-silencing MAO-A. Through protein kinases C epsilon (PKCε) agonist treatment and gene silencing of the PKCε and 5-HT2A receptor, we demonstrated that the 5-HT2A receptor controls 5-HT synthases and MAO-A expression via the PKCε pathway in cells. Unexpectedly, we discovered that PKCε-mediated phosphorylation of the AKT/mTOR pathway is also a consequence of the activation of the 5DS axis. Furthermore, we confirmed that the inhibition of the 5DS axis using the 5-HT2A receptor antagonist could prevent hepatotoxicity induced by CCl4 both in vitro and in vivo, inhibiting the aforementioned signaling cascades, inflammation, and apoptosis, and that the 5DS activation area overlapped the necrotic area of mouse liver. Taken together, we revealed a 5DS axis in hepatocytes that controls the signaling cascades associated with inflammation and apoptosis and confirmed its role in CCl4-induced hepatotoxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuxin Zhang
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medicine and Clinical Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Yizhou Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Kun Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Xiurui Liang
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medicine and Clinical Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Jing Guan
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medicine and Clinical Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Jiaqi Jin
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medicine and Clinical Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Yi Zhang
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medicine and Clinical Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Fan Xu
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medicine and Clinical Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Lin Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China.
| | - Jihua Fu
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medicine and Clinical Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China.
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Fissler P, Vandersmissen A, Filippi M, Mavioglu RN, Scholkmann F, Karabatsiakis A, Krähenmann R. Effects of serotonergic psychedelics on mitochondria: Transdiagnostic implications for mitochondria-related pathologies. J Psychopharmacol 2023:2698811231164707. [PMID: 37122193 DOI: 10.1177/02698811231164707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
The use of serotonergic psychedelics has gained increasing attention in research, clinical practice and society. Growing evidence suggests fast-acting, transdiagnostic health benefits of these 5-hydroxytryptamine 2A receptor agonists. Here, we provide a brief overview of their benefits for psychological, cardiovascular, metabolic, neurodegenerative, and immunological pathologies. We then review their effect on mitochondria including mitochondrial biogenesis, functioning and transport. Mitochondrial dysregulation is a transdiagnostic mechanism that contributes to the aforementioned pathologies. Hence, we postulate that psychedelic-induced effects on mitochondria partially underlie their transdiagnostic benefits. Based on this assumption, we propose new treatment indications for psychedelics and that the health benefits induced by psychedelics depend on patient-specific mitochondrial dysregulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Fissler
- Psychiatric Services Thurgau, Spital Thurgau AG, Münsterlingen, Switzerland
- University Hospital for Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Paracelsus Medical University Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Anja Vandersmissen
- Psychiatric Services Thurgau, Spital Thurgau AG, Münsterlingen, Switzerland
- University Hospital for Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Paracelsus Medical University Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Marco Filippi
- Psychiatric Services Thurgau, Spital Thurgau AG, Münsterlingen, Switzerland
- University Hospital for Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Paracelsus Medical University Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | | | - Felix Scholkmann
- Biomedical Optics Research Laboratory, Department of Neonatology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Alexander Karabatsiakis
- Department of Psychology, Clinical Psychology II, University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Rainer Krähenmann
- Psychiatric Services Thurgau, Spital Thurgau AG, Münsterlingen, Switzerland
- University Hospital for Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Paracelsus Medical University Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, University of Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
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42
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Tang ZH, Yu ZP, Li Q, Zhang XQ, Muhetaer K, Wang ZC, Xu P, Shen HW. The effects of serotonergic psychedelics in synaptic and intrinsic properties of neurons in layer II/III of the orbitofrontal cortex. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2023; 240:1275-1285. [PMID: 37071130 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-023-06366-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2023] [Accepted: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 04/19/2023]
Abstract
RATIONALE Serotonergic psychedelics show promise in the treatment of psychiatric disorders, including obsessive-compulsive disorder. Dysfunction of the orbitofrontal cortex (OFc) has been implicated in the pathophysiology of compulsive behavior, which might be a key region for the efficacy of psychedelics. However, the effects of psychedelics on the neural activities and local excitation/inhibition (E/I) balance in the OFc are unclear. OBJECTIVES This study aimed to investigate how 25C-NBOMe, a substituted phenethylamine psychedelic, regulated the synaptic and intrinsic properties of neurons in layer II/III of the OFc. METHODS Acute brain slices containing the OFc of adult male Sprague Dawley rats were used for ex vivo whole-cell recording. The synaptic and intrinsic properties of neurons were monitored using voltage and current clamps, respectively. Electrically evoked action potential (eAP) was used to measure synaptic-driven pyramidal activity. RESULTS 25C-NBOMe enhanced spontaneous neurotransmission at glutamatergic synapses but diminished that in GABAergic synapses through the 5-HT2A receptor. 25C-NBOMe also increased both evoked excitatory currents and evoked action potentials. Moreover, 25C-NBOMe promoted the excitability of pyramidal neurons but not fast-spiking neurons. Either inhibiting G protein-gated inwardly rectifying potassium channels or activating protein kinase C significantly obstructed the facilitative effect of 25C-NBOMe on the intrinsic excitability of pyramidal neurons. CONCLUSIONS This work reveals the multiple roles of 25C-NBOMe in modulating synaptic and neuronal function in the OFc, which collectively promotes local E/I ratios.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zi-Hang Tang
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Ningbo University, 818 Fenghua Rd, Ningbo, Zhejiang, 315211, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhi-Peng Yu
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Ningbo University, 818 Fenghua Rd, Ningbo, Zhejiang, 315211, People's Republic of China
- Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, Ningbo University, 818 Fenghua Rd, Ningbo, Zhejiang, 315211, People's Republic of China
| | - Qiong Li
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Ningbo University, 818 Fenghua Rd, Ningbo, Zhejiang, 315211, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiao-Qin Zhang
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Ningbo University, 818 Fenghua Rd, Ningbo, Zhejiang, 315211, People's Republic of China
| | - Kadeliya Muhetaer
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Ningbo University, 818 Fenghua Rd, Ningbo, Zhejiang, 315211, People's Republic of China
| | - Zheng-Chun Wang
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Ningbo University, 818 Fenghua Rd, Ningbo, Zhejiang, 315211, People's Republic of China
| | - Peng Xu
- Key Laboratory of Drug Monitoring and Control, Drug Intelligence and Forensic Center, Ministry of Public Security, Beijing, 100093, People's Republic of China
| | - Hao-Wei Shen
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Ningbo University, 818 Fenghua Rd, Ningbo, Zhejiang, 315211, People's Republic of China.
- Key Laboratory of Addiction Research of Zhejiang Province, Ningbo Kangning Hospital, Ningbo, Zhejiang, 315010, People's Republic of China.
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Glatfelter GC, Naeem M, Pham DNK, Golen JA, Chadeayne AR, Manke DR, Baumann MH. Receptor Binding Profiles for Tryptamine Psychedelics and Effects of 4-Propionoxy- N,N-dimethyltryptamine in Mice. ACS Pharmacol Transl Sci 2023; 6:567-577. [PMID: 37082754 PMCID: PMC10111620 DOI: 10.1021/acsptsci.2c00222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 03/12/2023]
Abstract
Analogues of 4-phosphoryloxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine (psilocybin) are being sold on recreational drug markets and developed as potential medications for psychedelic-assisted therapies. Many of these tryptamine-based psilocybin analogues produce psychedelic-like effects in rodents and humans primarily by agonist activity at serotonin 2A receptors (5-HT2A). However, the comprehensive pharmacological target profiles for these compounds compared to psilocybin and its active metabolite 4-hydroxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine (psilocin) are unknown. The present study determined the receptor binding profiles of various tryptamine-based psychedelics structurally related to psilocybin across a broad range of potential targets. Specifically, we examined tryptamine psychedelics with different 4-position (hydroxy, acetoxy, propionoxy) and N,N-dialkyl (dimethyl, methyl-ethyl, diethyl, methyl-propyl, ethyl-propyl, diisopropyl, methyl-allyl, diallyl) substitutions. Further, the psilocybin analogue 4-propionoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine (4-PrO-DMT) was administered to mice in experiments measuring head twitch response (HTR), locomotor activity, and body temperature. Overall, the present pharmacological profile screening data show that the tryptamine psychedelics target multiple serotonin receptors, including serotonin 1A receptors (5-HT1A). 4-Acetoxy and 4-propionoxy analogues of 4-hydroxy compounds displayed somewhat weaker binding affinities but similar target profiles across 5-HT receptors and other identified targets. Additionally, differential binding screen profiles were observed with N,N-dialkyl position variations across several non-5-HT receptor targets (i.e., alpha receptors, dopamine receptors, histamine receptors, and serotonin transporters), which could impact in vivo pharmacological effects of the compounds. In mouse experiments, 4-PrO-DMT displayed dose-related psilocybin-like effects to produce 5-HT2A-mediated HTR (0.3-3 mg/kg s.c.) as well as 5-HT1A-mediated hypothermia and hypolocomotion (3-30 mg/kg s.c.). Lastly, our data support a growing body of evidence that the 5-HT2A-mediated HTR induced by tryptamine psychedelics is attenuated by 5-HT1A receptor agonist activity at high doses in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grant C. Glatfelter
- Designer
Drug Research Unit, National Institute on
Drug Abuse, Intramural Research Program, Baltimore, Maryland 21224 United States
| | - Marilyn Naeem
- Department
of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University
of Massachusetts Dartmouth, North Dartmouth, Massachusetts 02747, United States
| | - Duyen N. K. Pham
- Department
of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University
of Massachusetts Dartmouth, North Dartmouth, Massachusetts 02747, United States
| | - James A. Golen
- Department
of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University
of Massachusetts Dartmouth, North Dartmouth, Massachusetts 02747, United States
| | | | - David R. Manke
- Department
of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University
of Massachusetts Dartmouth, North Dartmouth, Massachusetts 02747, United States
| | - Michael H. Baumann
- Designer
Drug Research Unit, National Institute on
Drug Abuse, Intramural Research Program, Baltimore, Maryland 21224 United States
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Johnston JN, Kadriu B, Allen J, Gilbert JR, Henter ID, Zarate CA. Ketamine and serotonergic psychedelics: An update on the mechanisms and biosignatures underlying rapid-acting antidepressant treatment. Neuropharmacology 2023; 226:109422. [PMID: 36646310 PMCID: PMC9983360 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2023.109422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2022] [Revised: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
The discovery of ketamine as a rapid-acting antidepressant spurred significant research to understand its underlying mechanisms of action and to identify other novel compounds that may act similarly. Serotonergic psychedelics (SPs) have shown initial promise in treating depression, though the challenge of conducting randomized controlled trials with SPs and the necessity of long-term clinical observation are important limitations. This review summarizes the similarities and differences between the psychoactive effects associated with both ketamine and SPs and the mechanisms of action of these compounds, with a focus on the monoaminergic, glutamatergic, gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)-ergic, opioid, and inflammatory systems. Both molecular and neuroimaging aspects are considered. While their main mechanisms of action differ-SPs increase serotonergic signaling while ketamine is a glutamatergic modulator-evidence suggests that the downstream mechanisms of action of both ketamine and SPs include mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) signaling and downstream GABAA receptor activity. The similarities in downstream mechanisms may explain why ketamine, and potentially SPs, exert rapid-acting antidepressant effects. However, research on SPs is still in its infancy compared to the ongoing research that has been conducted with ketamine. For both therapeutics, issues with regulation and proper controls should be addressed before more widespread implementation. This article is part of the Special Issue on "Ketamine and its Metabolites".
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenessa N Johnston
- Experimental Therapeutics and Pathophysiology Branch, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA.
| | - Bashkim Kadriu
- Experimental Therapeutics and Pathophysiology Branch, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA.
| | - Josh Allen
- The Alfred Centre, Department of Neuroscience, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
| | - Jessica R Gilbert
- Experimental Therapeutics and Pathophysiology Branch, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA.
| | - Ioline D Henter
- Experimental Therapeutics and Pathophysiology Branch, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA.
| | - Carlos A Zarate
- Experimental Therapeutics and Pathophysiology Branch, National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA.
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45
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Zhang HC, Du Y, Chen L, Yuan ZQ, Cheng Y. MicroRNA schizophrenia: Etiology, biomarkers and therapeutic targets. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2023; 146:105064. [PMID: 36707012 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2023.105064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Revised: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
The three sets of symptoms associated with schizophrenia-positive, negative, and cognitive-are burdensome and have serious effects on public health, which affects up to 1% of the population. It is now commonly believed that in addition to the traditional dopaminergic mesolimbic pathway, the etiology of schizophrenia also includes neuronal networks, such as glutamate, GABA, serotonin, BDNF, oxidative stress, inflammation and the immune system. Small noncoding RNA molecules called microRNAs (miRNAs) have come to light as possible participants in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia in recent years by having an impact on these systems. These small RNAs regulate the stability and translation of hundreds of target transcripts, which has an impact on the entire gene network. There may be improved approaches to treat and diagnose schizophrenia if it is understood how these changes in miRNAs alter the critical related signaling pathways that drive the development and progression of the illness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heng-Chang Zhang
- Center on Translational Neuroscience, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Minzu University of China, Beijing, China
| | - Yang Du
- Key Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education, School of Pharmacy, Minzu University of China, Beijing, China
| | - Lei Chen
- Key Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education, School of Pharmacy, Minzu University of China, Beijing, China
| | - Zeng-Qiang Yuan
- Center on Translational Neuroscience, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Minzu University of China, Beijing, China; Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Beijing 100850, China
| | - Yong Cheng
- Center on Translational Neuroscience, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Minzu University of China, Beijing, China; Key Laboratory of Ethnomedicine of Ministry of Education, School of Pharmacy, Minzu University of China, Beijing, China; Institute of National Security, Minzu University of China, Beijing, China.
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46
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Fišar Z. Biological hypotheses, risk factors, and biomarkers of schizophrenia. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2023; 120:110626. [PMID: 36055561 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2022.110626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Revised: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Both the discovery of biomarkers of schizophrenia and the verification of biological hypotheses of schizophrenia are an essential part of the process of understanding the etiology of this mental disorder. Schizophrenia has long been considered a neurodevelopmental disease whose symptoms are caused by impaired synaptic signal transduction and brain neuroplasticity. Both the onset and chronic course of schizophrenia are associated with risk factors-induced disruption of brain function and the establishment of a new homeostatic setpoint characterized by biomarkers. Different risk factors and biomarkers can converge to the same symptoms of schizophrenia, suggesting that the primary cause of the disease can be highly individual. Schizophrenia-related biomarkers include measurable biochemical changes induced by stress (elevated allostatic load), mitochondrial dysfunction, neuroinflammation, oxidative and nitrosative stress, and circadian rhythm disturbances. Here is a summary of selected valid biological hypotheses of schizophrenia formulated based on risk factors and biomarkers, neurodevelopment, neuroplasticity, brain chemistry, and antipsychotic medication. The integrative neurodevelopmental-vulnerability-neurochemical model is based on current knowledge of the neurobiology of the onset and progression of the disease and the effects of antipsychotics and psychotomimetics and reflects the complex and multifactorial nature of schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zdeněk Fišar
- Charles University and General University Hospital in Prague, First Faculty of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, Czech Republic.
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47
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Calder AE, Hasler G. Towards an understanding of psychedelic-induced neuroplasticity. Neuropsychopharmacology 2023; 48:104-112. [PMID: 36123427 PMCID: PMC9700802 DOI: 10.1038/s41386-022-01389-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 44.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2022] [Revised: 07/10/2022] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Classic psychedelics, such as LSD, psilocybin, and the DMT-containing beverage ayahuasca, show some potential to treat depression, anxiety, and addiction. Importantly, clinical improvements can last for months or years after treatment. It has been theorized that these long-term improvements arise because psychedelics rapidly and lastingly stimulate neuroplasticity. The focus of this review is on answering specific questions about the effects of psychedelics on neuroplasticity. Firstly, we review the evidence that psychedelics promote neuroplasticity and examine the cellular and molecular mechanisms behind the effects of different psychedelics on different aspects of neuroplasticity, including dendritogenesis, synaptogenesis, neurogenesis, and expression of plasticity-related genes (e.g., brain-derived neurotrophic factor and immediate early genes). We then examine where in the brain psychedelics promote neuroplasticity, particularly discussing the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus. We also examine what doses are required to produce this effect (e.g., hallucinogenic doses vs. "microdoses"), and how long purported changes in neuroplasticity last. Finally, we discuss the likely consequences of psychedelics' effects on neuroplasticity for both patients and healthy people, and we identify important research questions that would further scientific understanding of psychedelics' effects on neuroplasticity and its potential clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abigail E. Calder
- grid.8534.a0000 0004 0478 1713University Center for Psychiatric Research, University of Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland
| | - Gregor Hasler
- University Center for Psychiatric Research, University of Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland.
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48
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Jaster AM, González-Maeso J. Automated Detection of Psychedelic-Induced Head-Twitch Response in Mice. Methods Mol Biol 2023; 2687:65-76. [PMID: 37464163 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3307-6_6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/20/2023]
Abstract
Head-twitch response (HTR) allows for the detection and classification of behavior associated with serotonin 2A receptor (5-HT2AR) activation upon psychedelic administration in rodent models. This activation and functional output can be utilized to provide insights into molecular mechanisms associated with psychosis and to identify signaling processes related to existing and novel antipsychotic and psychedelic compounds. Here we describe the use of a magnetic ear tag reporter coupled with automated quantification and biphasic detection to identify HTR in mice treated with the classical psychedelic 1-(2,5-dimethoxy-4-iodophenyl)-2-aminopropane (DOI).
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Affiliation(s)
- Alaina M Jaster
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, VA, USA
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Javier González-Maeso
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, VA, USA
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49
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Pędzich BD, Medrano M, Buckinx A, Smolders I, De Bundel D. Psychedelic-Induced Serotonin 2A Receptor Downregulation Does Not Predict Swim Stress Coping in Mice. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232315284. [PMID: 36499610 PMCID: PMC9736085 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232315284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 11/25/2022] [Accepted: 12/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Serotoninergic psychedelics such as psilocybin have been reported to elicit a long-lasting reduction in depressive symptoms. Although the main target for serotoninergic psychedelics, serotonin type 2A receptor (5-HT2A), has been established, the possible mechanism of the antidepressant action of psychedelics remains unknown. Using the mouse forced swim test model, we examined whether the administration of the synthetic serotoninergic psychedelic 2,5-dimethoxy-4-iodoamphetamine (DOI) would modulate 5-HT2A receptor levels in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) and revert stress-induced changes in behavior. Mice subjected to swim stress developed a passive stress-coping strategy when tested in the forced swim test 6 days later. This change in behavior was not associated with the hypothesized increase in 5-HT2A receptor-dependent head twitch behaviors or consistent changes in 5-HT2A receptor levels in the mPFC. When DOI was administered 1 day before the forced swim test, a low dose (0.2 mg/kg i.p.) unexpectedly increased immobility while a high dose (2 mg/kg i.p.) had no significant effect on immobility. Nevertheless, DOI evoked a dose-dependent decrease in 5-HT2A levels in the mPFC of mice previously exposed to swim stress. Our findings do not support the hypothesis that the downregulation of 5-HT2A receptors in the mPFC contributes to the antidepressant-like properties of serotoninergic psychedelics.
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Jensen ME, Stenbæk DS, Juul TS, Fisher PM, Ekstrøm CT, Knudsen GM, Fink-Jensen A. Psilocybin-assisted therapy for reducing alcohol intake in patients with alcohol use disorder: protocol for a randomised, double-blinded, placebo-controlled 12-week clinical trial (The QUANTUM Trip Trial). BMJ Open 2022; 12:e066019. [PMID: 36241352 PMCID: PMC9577917 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-066019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 09/30/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Alcohol use disorder is a difficult-to-treat psychiatric disorder and a major burden on public health. Existing treatment efficacy is moderate, and relapse rates are high. Preliminary findings suggest that psilocybin, a psychedelic compound, can safely and reliably occasion highly meaningful experiences that may spur a positive change in drinking behaviour when administered in a therapeutic context. However, the efficacy of a single psilocybin administration and its potential neurobiological underpinnings still remain unknown. METHODS AND ANALYSIS To establish efficacy, we will investigate the effects of psilocybin-assisted therapy versus placebo in a randomised, double-blinded, placebo-controlled 12-week clinical trial. Ninety treatment-seeking patients, aged 20-70 years, diagnosed with alcohol use disorder will be recruited from the community via advertisement and referrals from general practitioners or specialised treatment units. The psilocybin or placebo will be administered in accordance with a protocol for psychological support before, during and after the dosing. Outcome assessments will be carried out 1, 4, 8 and 12 weeks postdosing. The primary outcome is reduction in the percentage of heavy drinking days from baseline to follow-up at 12 weeks. Key secondary outcomes are as follows: (1) total alcohol consumption, (2) phosphatidyl-ethanol, an objective biomarker for alcohol, (3) plasma psilocin, the active metabolite, to establish a possible therapeutic range, (4) the acute subjective drug experience as a possible predictor of treatment outcome and (5) neuronal response to alcohol cues and cognitive flexibility within corticostriatal pathways by use of functional MR brain imaging 1-week postdosing. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION Ethical approval has been obtained from the Committee on Health Research Ethics of the Capital Region of Denmark (H-20043832). All patients will be provided oral and written information about the trial before screening. The study results will be disseminated by peer-review publications and conference presentations. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER EudraCT 2020-000829-55 and NCT05416229.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Dea Siggaard Stenbæk
- Department of Neurology and Neurobiology Research Unit, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Psychology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Tobias Søgaard Juul
- Psychiatry Centre Copenhagen, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Patrick MacDonald Fisher
- Department of Neurology and Neurobiology Research Unit, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Claus Thorn Ekstrøm
- Department of Public Health, Section of Biostatistics, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Gitte Moos Knudsen
- Department of Neurology and Neurobiology Research Unit, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Anders Fink-Jensen
- Psychiatry Centre Copenhagen, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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