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Méndez HG, Neira S, Flanigan ME, Haun HL, Boyt KM, Thiele TE, Kash TL. Dynamic regulation of CeA gene expression during acute and protracted abstinence from chronic binge drinking of male and female C57BL/6J mice. Alcohol 2024; 120:179-193. [PMID: 38945280 DOI: 10.1016/j.alcohol.2024.06.005] [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: 02/08/2024] [Revised: 05/13/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024]
Abstract
While there are numerous brain regions that have been shown to play a role in this AUD in humans and animal models, the central nucleus of the amygdala (CeA) has emerged as a critically important locus mediating binge alcohol consumption. In this study, we sought to understand how relative gene expression of key signaling molecules in the CeA changes during different periods of abstinence following bouts of binge drinking. To test this, we performed drinking in the dark (DID) on two separate cohorts of C57BL/6J mice and collected CeA brain tissue at 1 day (acute) and 7 days (protracted) abstinence after DID. We used qRTPCR to evaluate relative gene expression changes of 25 distinct genes of interest related to G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), neuropeptides, ion channel subunits, and enzymes that have been previously implicated in AUD. Our findings show that during acute abstinence CeA punches collected from female mice had upregulated relative mRNA expression of the gamma-aminobutyric acid receptor subunit alpha 2 (Gabra2), and the peptidase, angiotensinase c (Prcp). CeA punches from male mice at the same time point in abstinence had upregulated relative mRNA encoding for neuropeptide-related molecules, neuropeptide Y (Npy) and somatostatin (Sst), as well as the neuropeptide Y receptor Y2 (Npyr2), but downregulated Glutamate ionotropic receptor NMDA type subunit 1 (Grin1). After protracted abstinence, CeA punches collected from female mice had increased mRNA expression of corticotropin releasing hormone (Crh) and Npy. CeA punches collected from male mice at the same timepoint had upregulated relative mRNA expression of Npy2r, Npy, and Sst. Our findings support that there are differences in how the CeA of male and female mice respond to binge-alcohol exposure, highlighting the need to understand the implications of such differences in the context of AUD and binge drinking behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hernán G Méndez
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA; Department of Cell Biology & Physiology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Sofia Neira
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Meghan E Flanigan
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Harold L Haun
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Kristen M Boyt
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Todd E Thiele
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA; Department of Psychology & Neuroscience, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Thomas L Kash
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA; Department of Pharmacology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA; Department of Psychology & Neuroscience, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA.
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2
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Varodayan FP, Erikson CM, Scroger MV, Roberto M. Noradrenergic mechanisms and circuitry of hyperkatifeia in alcohol use disorder. Biol Psychiatry 2024:S0006-3223(24)01609-3. [PMID: 39304172 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2024.09.009] [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] [Received: 03/15/2024] [Revised: 09/03/2024] [Accepted: 09/12/2024] [Indexed: 09/22/2024]
Abstract
Hyperkatifeia, the manifestation of emotional distress or pain, is a conceptual framework gaining traction throughout the alcohol and other substance use fields as an important driver of addiction. It is well known that previous or current negative life experiences can serve as powerful motivators for excessive alcohol consumption and precipitate the development of an alcohol use disorder (AUD). A major hallmark of later stages of AUD is the emergence of hyperkatifeia during withdrawal, which can persist well into protracted abstinence to drive relapse. Given these complex interactions, understanding the specific neuroadaptations that lie at the intersection of hyperkatifeia and AUD can inform ongoing therapeutic development. Of particular interest is the monoamine norepinephrine (NE). Noradrenergic dysfunction is implicated in AUD, anxiety, chronic stress, depression, and emotional and physical pain. Importantly, there are key sexual dimorphisms within the noradrenergic system that are thought to differentially impact the development and trajectory of AUD in women and men. The present review discusses past and recent work on noradrenergic influences at each stage of the AUD cycle (binge/intoxication, withdrawal/negative affect, and preoccupation/anticipation) through the lens of hyperkatifeia. Evidence from these studies support the prioritization of NE-specific drug development to treat AUD and the identification of AUD subpopulations that may benefit the most from these therapies (e.g., women and people with comorbid chronic pain or anxiety/stress disorders).
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Affiliation(s)
- Florence P Varodayan
- Developmental Exposure Alcohol Research Center and Behavioral Neuroscience Program, Department of Psychology, Binghamton University - SUNY, 4400 Vestal Parkway East, Binghamton, NY, 13902, USA.
| | - Chloe M Erikson
- Department of Molecular Medicine, The Scripps Research Institute, 10550 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, CA, 92037, USA
| | - Marcis V Scroger
- Developmental Exposure Alcohol Research Center and Behavioral Neuroscience Program, Department of Psychology, Binghamton University - SUNY, 4400 Vestal Parkway East, Binghamton, NY, 13902, USA
| | - Marisa Roberto
- Department of Molecular Medicine, The Scripps Research Institute, 10550 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, CA, 92037, USA.
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3
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Richardson RS, Kryszak LA, Vendruscolo JCM, Koob GF, Vendruscolo LF, Leggio L. GHSR blockade, but not reduction of peripherally circulating ghrelin via β 1-adrenergic receptor antagonism, decreases binge-like alcohol drinking in mice. Mol Psychiatry 2024:10.1038/s41380-024-02713-3. [PMID: 39232198 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-024-02713-3] [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: 10/20/2023] [Revised: 08/17/2024] [Accepted: 08/21/2024] [Indexed: 09/06/2024]
Abstract
Alcohol use disorder (AUD) and binge drinking are highly prevalent public health issues. The stomach-derived peptide ghrelin, and its receptor, the growth hormone secretagogue receptor (GHSR), both of which are expressed in the brain and periphery, are implicated in alcohol-related outcomes. We previously found that systemic and central administration of GHSR antagonists reduced binge-like alcohol drinking, whereas a ghrelin vaccine did not. Thus, we hypothesized that central GHSR drives binge-like alcohol drinking independently of peripheral ghrelin. To investigate this hypothesis, we antagonized β1-adrenergic receptors (β1ARs), which are required for peripheral ghrelin release, and combined them with GHSR blockers. We found that both systemic β1AR antagonism with atenolol (peripherally restricted) and metoprolol (brain permeable) robustly decreased plasma ghrelin levels. Also, ICV administration of atenolol had no effect on peripheral endogenous ghrelin levels. However, only metoprolol, but not atenolol, decreased binge-like alcohol drinking. The β1AR antagonism also did not prevent the effects of the GHSR blockers JMV2959 and PF-5190457 in decreasing binge-like alcohol drinking. These results suggest that the GHSR rather than peripheral endogenous ghrelin is involved in binge-like alcohol drinking. Thus, GHSRs and β1ARs represent possible targets for therapeutic intervention for AUD, including the potential combination of drugs that target these two systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rani S Richardson
- Clinical Psychoneuroendocrinology and Neuropsychopharmacology Section, Translational Addiction Medicine Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse Intramural Research Program and National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism Division of Intramural Clinical and Biological Research, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore and Bethesda, MD, USA
- Neurobiology of Addiction Section, National Institute on Drug Abuse Intramural Research Program, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
- University of North Carolina School of Medicine MD/PhD Program, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- Stress and Addiction Neuroscience Unit, National Institute on Drug Abuse Intramural Research Program and National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism Division of Intramural Clinical and Biological Research, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Lindsay A Kryszak
- National Institute on Drug Abuse Intramural Research Program Translational Analytical Core, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Janaina C M Vendruscolo
- Neurobiology of Addiction Section, National Institute on Drug Abuse Intramural Research Program, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Stress and Addiction Neuroscience Unit, National Institute on Drug Abuse Intramural Research Program and National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism Division of Intramural Clinical and Biological Research, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - George F Koob
- Neurobiology of Addiction Section, National Institute on Drug Abuse Intramural Research Program, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Leandro F Vendruscolo
- Stress and Addiction Neuroscience Unit, National Institute on Drug Abuse Intramural Research Program and National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism Division of Intramural Clinical and Biological Research, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| | - Lorenzo Leggio
- Clinical Psychoneuroendocrinology and Neuropsychopharmacology Section, Translational Addiction Medicine Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse Intramural Research Program and National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism Division of Intramural Clinical and Biological Research, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore and Bethesda, MD, USA.
- National Institute on Drug Abuse Intramural Research Program Translational Analytical Core, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD, USA.
- Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Center for Alcohol and Addiction Studies, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA.
- Medication Development Program, Molecular Targets and Medications Discovery Branch, Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, Baltimore, MD, USA.
- Division of Addiction Medicine, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA.
- Department of Neuroscience, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, USA.
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Vlkolinsky R, Khom S, Vozella V, Bajo M, Roberto M. Withdrawal from chronic alcohol impairs the serotonin-mediated modulation of GABAergic transmission in the infralimbic cortex in male rats. Neurobiol Dis 2024; 199:106590. [PMID: 38996987 PMCID: PMC11412312 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2024.106590] [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: 05/03/2024] [Revised: 07/01/2024] [Accepted: 07/02/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024] Open
Abstract
The infralimbic cortex (IL) is part of the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC), exerting top-down control over structures that are critically involved in the development of alcohol use disorder (AUD). Activity of the IL is tightly controlled by γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) transmission, which is susceptible to chronic alcohol exposure and withdrawal. This inhibitory control is regulated by various neuromodulators, including 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT; serotonin). We used chronic intermittent ethanol vapor inhalation exposure, a model of AUD, in male Sprague-Dawley rats to induce alcohol dependence (Dep) followed by protracted withdrawal (WD; 2 weeks) and performed ex vivo electrophysiology using whole-cell patch clamp to study GABAergic transmission in layer V of IL pyramidal neurons. We found that WD increased frequencies of spontaneous inhibitory postsynaptic currents (sIPSCs), whereas miniature IPSCs (mIPSCs; recorded in the presence of tetrodotoxin) were unaffected by either Dep or WD. The application of 5-HT (50 μM) increased sIPSC frequencies and amplitudes in naive and Dep rats but reduced sIPSC frequencies in WD rats. Additionally, 5-HT2A receptor antagonist M100907 and 5-HT2C receptor antagonist SB242084 reduced basal GABA release in all groups to a similar extent. The blockage of either 5-HT2A or 5-HT2C receptors in WD rats restored the impaired response to 5-HT, which then resembled responses in naive rats. Our findings expand our understanding of synaptic inhibition in the IL in AUD, indicating that antagonism of 5-HT2A and 5-HT2C receptors may restore GABAergic control over IL pyramidal neurons. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: Impairment in the serotonergic modulation of GABAergic inhibition in the medial prefrontal cortex contributes to alcohol use disorder (AUD). We used a well-established rat model of AUD and ex vivo whole-cell patch-clamp electrophysiology to characterize the serotonin modulation of GABAergic transmission in layer V infralimbic (IL) pyramidal neurons in ethanol-naive, ethanol-dependent (Dep), and ethanol-withdrawn (WD) male rats. We found increased basal inhibition following WD from chronic alcohol and altered serotonin modulation. Exogenous serotonin enhanced GABAergic transmission in naive and Dep rats but reduced it in WD rats. 5-HT2A and 5-HT2C receptor blockage in WD rats restored the typical serotonin-mediated enhancement of GABAergic inhibition. Our findings expand our understanding of synaptic inhibition in the infralimbic neurons in AUD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roman Vlkolinsky
- Department of Molecular Medicine, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA.
| | - Sophia Khom
- Department of Molecular Medicine, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA; Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Vienna, Vienna, 1090, Austria.
| | - Valentina Vozella
- Department of Molecular Medicine, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA.
| | - Michal Bajo
- Department of Molecular Medicine, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA.
| | - Marisa Roberto
- Department of Molecular Medicine, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA.
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Bruns Vi N, Tressler EH, Vendruscolo LF, Leggio L, Farokhnia M. IUPHAR review - Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and substance use disorders: An emerging pharmacotherapeutic target. Pharmacol Res 2024; 207:107312. [PMID: 39032839 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2024.107312] [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: 06/14/2024] [Revised: 07/10/2024] [Accepted: 07/15/2024] [Indexed: 07/23/2024]
Abstract
Addiction is a chronic relapsing disease with high morbidity and mortality. Treatments for addiction include pharmacological and psychosocial interventions; however, currently available medications are limited in number and efficacy. The glucagon-like-peptide-1 (GLP-1) system is emerging as a potential novel pharmacotherapeutic target for alcohol and other substance use disorders (ASUDs). In this review, we summarize and discuss the wealth of available evidence from testing GLP-1 receptor (GLP-1R) agonist medications in preclinical models and humans with ASUDs, possible mechanisms underlying the impact of GLP-1R agonists on alcohol/substance use, gaps in knowledge, and future directions. Most of the research with GLP-1R agonists has been conducted in relation to alcohol use; psychostimulants, opioids, and nicotine have also been investigated. Preclinical evidence suggests that GLP-1R agonists reduce alcohol/substance use and other related outcomes. The main proposed mechanisms are related to reward processing, stress, and cognitive function, as well as broader mechanisms related to satiety, changes in gastric motility, and glucose homeostasis. More in-depth mechanistic studies are warranted. Clinical studies have been limited and their findings have been less conclusive; however, most support the safety and potential efficacy of GLP-1R agonists in ASUD treatment. Identifying preferred compounds, as well as possible subgroups who are most responsive to GLP-1R agonists are some of the key research questions to translate the promising preclinical data into clinical settings. Several clinical trials are underway to test GLP-1R agonists in people with ASUDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolaus Bruns Vi
- Clinical Psychoneuroendocrinology and Neuropsychopharmacology Section, Translational Addiction Medicine Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse Intramural Research Program and National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism Division of Intramural Clinical and Biological Research, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD, USA; Neurobiology of Addiction Section, Integrative Neuroscience Research Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse Intramural Research Program, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD, USA; Stress & Addiction Neuroscience Unit, Integrative Neuroscience Research Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse Intramural Research Program and National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism Division of Intramural Clinical and Biological Research, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Elizabeth H Tressler
- Clinical Psychoneuroendocrinology and Neuropsychopharmacology Section, Translational Addiction Medicine Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse Intramural Research Program and National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism Division of Intramural Clinical and Biological Research, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD, USA; Neurobiology of Addiction Section, Integrative Neuroscience Research Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse Intramural Research Program, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD, USA; Stress & Addiction Neuroscience Unit, Integrative Neuroscience Research Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse Intramural Research Program and National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism Division of Intramural Clinical and Biological Research, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Leandro F Vendruscolo
- Stress & Addiction Neuroscience Unit, Integrative Neuroscience Research Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse Intramural Research Program and National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism Division of Intramural Clinical and Biological Research, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Lorenzo Leggio
- Clinical Psychoneuroendocrinology and Neuropsychopharmacology Section, Translational Addiction Medicine Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse Intramural Research Program and National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism Division of Intramural Clinical and Biological Research, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| | - Mehdi Farokhnia
- Clinical Psychoneuroendocrinology and Neuropsychopharmacology Section, Translational Addiction Medicine Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse Intramural Research Program and National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism Division of Intramural Clinical and Biological Research, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD, USA.
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Zhang M, Zhao C, Zhang M, Mao S, Yang M, Mao Z, Xing X. Influence of reinforcement learning on the inhibitory control of Internet gaming disorder. Psych J 2024. [PMID: 38965885 DOI: 10.1002/pchj.772] [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: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 07/06/2024]
Abstract
Reward processing dysfunction and inhibition control deficiency have been observed in Internet gaming disorder (IGD). However, it is still unclear whether the previous reinforcement learning depends on reward/punishment feedback influences on the cognitive inhibitory control of IGD. This study compared the differences between an IGD group and healthy people without game experiences in the probability selection task and the subsequent stop signal task by the method of behavioral experiments, in order to explore whether the reward learning ability is impaired in the IGD group. We also discuss the influence of previous reward learning on subsequent inhibition control. The results showed that (1) during the reward learning phase, the IGD group's accuracy was significantly lower than that of the control group; (2) compared with the control group, the IGD group's reaction times were longer in the transfer phase; (3) for no-go trials of the inhibitory control phase after reward learning, the accuracy of the reward-related stimulation in the IGD group was lower than that of punishment-related or neutral stimulation, but there was no significant difference among the three conditions in the control group. These findings indicated that the reinforcement learning ability of the IGD group was impaired, which further caused the abnormal response to reinforcement stimuli.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengyue Zhang
- Department of Psychology, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Chenyue Zhao
- Department of Psychology, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Meng Zhang
- Department of Psychology, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Shuangshuang Mao
- Department of Basic Education, Hunan Vocational College for Nationalities, Yueyang, China
| | - Mengyao Yang
- Department of Psychology, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Ziyu Mao
- Department of Psychology, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Xiaoli Xing
- Department of Psychology, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
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Belelli D, Riva A, Nutt DJ. Reducing the harms of alcohol: nutritional interventions and functional alcohol alternatives. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF NEUROBIOLOGY 2024; 175:241-276. [PMID: 38555118 DOI: 10.1016/bs.irn.2024.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/02/2024]
Abstract
The health risks and harm associated with regular alcohol consumption are well documented. In a recent WHO statement published in The Lancet Public Health alcohol consumption has been estimated to contribute worldwide to 3 million deaths in 2016 while also being responsible for 5·1% of the global burden of disease and injury. The total elimination of alcohol consumption, which has been long imbedded in human culture and society, is not practical and prohibition policies have proved historically ineffective. However, valuable strategies to reduce alcohol harms are already available and improved alternative approaches are currently being developed. Here, we will review and discuss recent advances on two main types of approaches, that is nutritional interventions and functional alcohol alternatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Delia Belelli
- GABALabs Res. Senior Scientific Consultant, United Kingdom
| | - Antonio Riva
- Roger Williams Institute of Hepatology (Foundation for Liver Research), London; Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College London, London
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Méndez HG, Neira S, Flanigan ME, Haun HL, Boyt KM, Thiele TE, Kash TL. Dynamic regulation of CeA gene expression during acute and protracted abstinence from chronic binge drinking of male and female C57BL/6J mice. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.02.02.578650. [PMID: 38352404 PMCID: PMC10862834 DOI: 10.1101/2024.02.02.578650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/22/2024]
Abstract
Binge alcohol consumption is a major risk factor for developing Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) and is associated with alcohol-related problems like accidental injury, acute alcohol poisoning, and black-outs. While there are numerous brain regions that have been shown to play a role in this AUD in humans and animal models, the central nucleus of the amygdala (CeA) has emerged as a critically important locus mediating binge alcohol consumption. In this study, we sought to understand how relative gene expression of key signaling molecules in the CeA changes during different periods of abstinence following bouts of binge drinking. To test this, we performed drinking in the dark (DID) on two separate cohorts of C57BL/6J mice and collected CeA brain tissue at one day (acute) and 7 days (protracted) abstinence after DID. We used qRTPCR to evaluate relative gene expression changes of 25 distinct genes of interest related to G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), neuropeptides, ion channel subunits, and enzymes that have been previously implicated in AUD. Our findings show that during acute abstinence CeA punches collected from female mice had upregulated relative mRNA expression of the gamma-aminobutyric acid receptor subunit alpha 2 (Gabra2), and the peptidase, angiotensinase c (Prcp). CeA punches from male mice at the same time point in abstinence had upregulated relative mRNA encoding for neuropeptide-related molecules, neuropeptide Y (Npy) and somatostatin (Sst), as well as the neuropeptide Y receptor Y2 (Npyr2) but downregulated, Glutamate ionotropic receptor NMDA type subunit 1 (Grin1). After protracted abstinence CeA punches collected from female mice had increased mRNA expression of corticotropin releasing hormone (Crh) and Npy. While CeA punches collected from male mice at the same timepoint had upregulated relative mRNA expression of Npy2r and downregulated mRNA expression of Gabra2, Grin1 and opioid receptor kappa 1 (Oprk1). Our findings support that there are differences in how the CeA of male and female respond to binge-alcohol exposure, highlighting the need to understand the implications of such differences in the context of AUD and binge drinking behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hernán G Méndez
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, 27599, USA
- Department of Cell Biology & Physiology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, 27599, USA
| | - Sofia Neira
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, 27599, USA
| | - Meghan E Flanigan
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, 27599, USA
| | - Harold L Haun
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, 27599, USA
| | - Kristen M Boyt
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, 27599, USA
| | - Todd E Thiele
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, 27599, USA
- Department of Psychology & Neuroscience, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, 27599, USA
| | - Thomas L Kash
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, 27599, USA
- Department of Pharmacology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, 27599, USA
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9
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Wang X, Chen Y, Dong J, Ge J, Liu X, Liu J. Neurobiology of Stress-Induced Nicotine Relapse. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:1482. [PMID: 38338760 PMCID: PMC10855331 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25031482] [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: 12/17/2023] [Revised: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Tobacco smoking is the leading cause of preventable death and disease. Although there are some FAD-approved medicines for controlling smoking, the relapse rate remains very high. Among the factors that could induce nicotine relapse, stress might be the most important one. In the last decades, preclinical studies have generated many new findings that lead to a better understanding of stress-induced relapse of nicotine-seeking. Several molecules such as α3β4 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor, α2-adrenergic receptors, cannabinoid receptor 1, trace amine-associated receptor 1, and neuropeptide systems (corticotropin-releasing factor and its receptors, dynorphine and kappa opioid receptor) have been linked to stress-induced nicotine relapse. In this review, we discuss recent advances in the neurobiology, treatment targets, and potential therapeutics of stress-induced nicotine relapse. We also discuss some factors that may influence stress-induced nicotine relapse and that should be considered in future studies. In the final section, a perspective on some research directions is provided. Further investigation on the neurobiology of stress-induced nicotine relapse will shed light on the development of new medicines for controlling smoking and will help us understand the interactions between the stress and reward systems in the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Jianfeng Liu
- Institute of Brain Science and Advanced Technology, Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Occupational Hazard Identification and Control, School of Medicine, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430065, China (Y.C.); (J.D.)
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10
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Pince CL, Whiting KE, Wang T, Lékó AH, Farinelli LA, Cooper D, Farokhnia M, Vendruscolo LF, Leggio L. Role of aldosterone and mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) in addiction: A scoping review. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2023; 154:105427. [PMID: 37858908 PMCID: PMC10865927 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2023.105427] [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: 07/28/2023] [Revised: 09/24/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
Preclinical and human studies suggest a role of aldosterone and mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) in addiction. This scoping review aimed to summarize (1) the relationship between alcohol and other substance use disorders (ASUDs) and dysfunctions of the aldosterone and MR, and (2) how pharmacological manipulations of MR may affect ASUD-related outcomes. Our search in four databases (MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library) indicated that most studies focused on the relationship between aldosterone, MR, and alcohol (n = 30), with the rest focused on opioids (n = 5), nicotine (n = 9), and other addictive substances (n = 9). Despite some inconsistencies, the overall results suggest peripheral and central dysregulations of aldosterone and MR in several species and that these dysregulations depended on the pattern of drug exposure and genetic factors. We conclude that MR antagonism may be a promising target in ASUD, yet future studies are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claire L Pince
- Clinical Psychoneuroendocrinology and Neuropsychopharmacology Section, Translational Addiction Medicine Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse Intramural Research Program and National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism Division of Intramural Clinical and Biological Research, National Institutes of Health, 251 Bayview Blvd, Suite 200, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA; Neurobiology of Addiction Section, Integrative Neuroscience Research Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse Intramural Research Program, National Institutes of Health, 251 Bayview Blvd, Suite 200, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA; Stress & Addiction Neuroscience Unit, Integrative Neuroscience Research Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse Intramural Research Program and National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism Division of Intramural Clinical and Biological Research, National Institutes of Health, 251 Bayview Blvd, Suite 200, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA
| | - Kimberly E Whiting
- Clinical Psychoneuroendocrinology and Neuropsychopharmacology Section, Translational Addiction Medicine Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse Intramural Research Program and National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism Division of Intramural Clinical and Biological Research, National Institutes of Health, 251 Bayview Blvd, Suite 200, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA; Neurobiology of Addiction Section, Integrative Neuroscience Research Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse Intramural Research Program, National Institutes of Health, 251 Bayview Blvd, Suite 200, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA
| | - Tammy Wang
- Clinical Psychoneuroendocrinology and Neuropsychopharmacology Section, Translational Addiction Medicine Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse Intramural Research Program and National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism Division of Intramural Clinical and Biological Research, National Institutes of Health, 251 Bayview Blvd, Suite 200, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA
| | - András H Lékó
- Clinical Psychoneuroendocrinology and Neuropsychopharmacology Section, Translational Addiction Medicine Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse Intramural Research Program and National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism Division of Intramural Clinical and Biological Research, National Institutes of Health, 251 Bayview Blvd, Suite 200, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA; Center on Compulsive Behaviors, Intramural Research Program, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Lisa A Farinelli
- Clinical Psychoneuroendocrinology and Neuropsychopharmacology Section, Translational Addiction Medicine Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse Intramural Research Program and National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism Division of Intramural Clinical and Biological Research, National Institutes of Health, 251 Bayview Blvd, Suite 200, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA
| | - Diane Cooper
- Office of Research Services, Division of Library Services, National Institutes of Health, Building 10, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Mehdi Farokhnia
- Clinical Psychoneuroendocrinology and Neuropsychopharmacology Section, Translational Addiction Medicine Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse Intramural Research Program and National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism Division of Intramural Clinical and Biological Research, National Institutes of Health, 251 Bayview Blvd, Suite 200, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA
| | - Leandro F Vendruscolo
- Stress & Addiction Neuroscience Unit, Integrative Neuroscience Research Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse Intramural Research Program and National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism Division of Intramural Clinical and Biological Research, National Institutes of Health, 251 Bayview Blvd, Suite 200, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA.
| | - Lorenzo Leggio
- Clinical Psychoneuroendocrinology and Neuropsychopharmacology Section, Translational Addiction Medicine Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse Intramural Research Program and National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism Division of Intramural Clinical and Biological Research, National Institutes of Health, 251 Bayview Blvd, Suite 200, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA.
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