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Wang J, Beecher K. TSPO: an emerging role in appetite for a therapeutically promising biomarker. Open Biol 2021; 11:210173. [PMID: 34343461 PMCID: PMC8331234 DOI: 10.1098/rsob.210173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
There is accumulating evidence that an obesogenic Western diet causes neuroinflammatory damage to the brain, which then promotes further appetitive behaviour. Neuroinflammation has been extensively studied by analysing the translocator protein of 18 kDa (TSPO), a protein that is upregulated in the inflamed brain following a damaging stimulus. As a result, there is a rich supply of TSPO-specific agonists, antagonists and positron emission tomography ligands. One TSPO ligand, etifoxine, is also currently used clinically for the treatment of anxiety with a minimal side-effect profile. Despite the neuroinflammatory pathogenesis of diet-induced obesity, and the translational potential of targeting TSPO, there is sparse literature characterizing the effect of TSPO on appetite. Therefore, in this review, the influence of TSPO on appetite is discussed. Three putative mechanisms for TSPO's appetite-modulatory effect are then characterized: the TSPO–allopregnanolone–GABAAR signalling axis, glucosensing in tanycytes and association with the synaptic protein RIM-BP1. We highlight that, in addition to its plethora of functions, TSPO is a regulator of appetite. This review ultimately suggests that the appetite-modulating function of TSPO should be further explored due to its potential therapeutic promise.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua Wang
- Addiction Neuroscience and Obesity Laboratory, School of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Health, Translational Research Institute, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Kate Beecher
- Addiction Neuroscience and Obesity Laboratory, School of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Health, Translational Research Institute, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
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Vasudevan N, Aka EC, Barré E, Wimmer E, Cortés-Borda D, Giraudeau P, Farjon J, Rodriguez-Zubiri M, Felpin FX. Development of a continuous flow synthesis of FGIN-1-27 enabled by in-line 19F NMR analyses and optimization algorithms. REACT CHEM ENG 2021. [DOI: 10.1039/d1re00220a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
A continuous flow synthesis of FGIN-1-27 has been developed using enabling technologies such as real-time in-line benchtop 19F NMR analysis and an optimization algorithm.
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Affiliation(s)
- N. Vasudevan
- Université de Nantes, CNRS, CEISAM UMR 6230, 2 rue de la Houssinière, 44322 Nantes, France
| | - Ehu C. Aka
- Université de Nantes, CNRS, CEISAM UMR 6230, 2 rue de la Houssinière, 44322 Nantes, France
| | - Elvina Barré
- Université de Nantes, CNRS, CEISAM UMR 6230, 2 rue de la Houssinière, 44322 Nantes, France
| | - Eric Wimmer
- Institut de Recherches Servier, 125 Chemin de Ronde, 78290 Croissy sur Seine, France
| | - Daniel Cortés-Borda
- Universidad del Atlántico, Facultad de ciencias básicas, Carrera 30 # 8-49, Puerto Colombia, Atlántico, Colombia
| | - Patrick Giraudeau
- Université de Nantes, CNRS, CEISAM UMR 6230, 2 rue de la Houssinière, 44322 Nantes, France
| | - Jonathan Farjon
- Université de Nantes, CNRS, CEISAM UMR 6230, 2 rue de la Houssinière, 44322 Nantes, France
| | | | - François-Xavier Felpin
- Université de Nantes, CNRS, CEISAM UMR 6230, 2 rue de la Houssinière, 44322 Nantes, France
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Diotel N, Charlier TD, Lefebvre d'Hellencourt C, Couret D, Trudeau VL, Nicolau JC, Meilhac O, Kah O, Pellegrini E. Steroid Transport, Local Synthesis, and Signaling within the Brain: Roles in Neurogenesis, Neuroprotection, and Sexual Behaviors. Front Neurosci 2018; 12:84. [PMID: 29515356 PMCID: PMC5826223 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2018.00084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2017] [Accepted: 02/02/2018] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Sex steroid hormones are synthesized from cholesterol and exert pleiotropic effects notably in the central nervous system. Pioneering studies from Baulieu and colleagues have suggested that steroids are also locally-synthesized in the brain. Such steroids, called neurosteroids, can rapidly modulate neuronal excitability and functions, brain plasticity, and behavior. Accumulating data obtained on a wide variety of species demonstrate that neurosteroidogenesis is an evolutionary conserved feature across fish, birds, and mammals. In this review, we will first document neurosteroidogenesis and steroid signaling for estrogens, progestagens, and androgens in the brain of teleost fish, birds, and mammals. We will next consider the effects of sex steroids in homeostatic and regenerative neurogenesis, in neuroprotection, and in sexual behaviors. In a last part, we will discuss the transport of steroids and lipoproteins from the periphery within the brain (and vice-versa) and document their effects on the blood-brain barrier (BBB) permeability and on neuroprotection. We will emphasize the potential interaction between lipoproteins and sex steroids, addressing the beneficial effects of steroids and lipoproteins, particularly HDL-cholesterol, against the breakdown of the BBB reported to occur during brain ischemic stroke. We will consequently highlight the potential anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, and neuroprotective properties of sex steroid and lipoproteins, these latest improving cholesterol and steroid ester transport within the brain after insults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas Diotel
- Université de La Réunion, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, UMR 1188, Diabète athérothrombose Thérapies Réunion Océan Indien, Saint-Denis de La Réunion, France
| | - Thierry D. Charlier
- Univ Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de recherche en santé, environnement et travail) - UMR_S 1085, Rennes, France
| | - Christian Lefebvre d'Hellencourt
- Université de La Réunion, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, UMR 1188, Diabète athérothrombose Thérapies Réunion Océan Indien, Saint-Denis de La Réunion, France
| | - David Couret
- Université de La Réunion, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, UMR 1188, Diabète athérothrombose Thérapies Réunion Océan Indien, Saint-Denis de La Réunion, France
- CHU de La Réunion, Saint-Denis, France
| | | | - Joel C. Nicolau
- Univ Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de recherche en santé, environnement et travail) - UMR_S 1085, Rennes, France
| | - Olivier Meilhac
- Université de La Réunion, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, UMR 1188, Diabète athérothrombose Thérapies Réunion Océan Indien, Saint-Denis de La Réunion, France
- CHU de La Réunion, Saint-Denis, France
| | - Olivier Kah
- Univ Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de recherche en santé, environnement et travail) - UMR_S 1085, Rennes, France
| | - Elisabeth Pellegrini
- Univ Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de recherche en santé, environnement et travail) - UMR_S 1085, Rennes, France
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Slopien R, Pluchino N, Warenik-Szymankiewicz A, Sajdak S, Luisi M, Drakopoulos P, Genazzani AR. Correlation between allopregnanolone levels and depressive symptoms during late menopausal transition and early postmenopause. Gynecol Endocrinol 2018; 34:144-147. [PMID: 28857628 DOI: 10.1080/09513590.2017.1371129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This observational, cross-sectional study included 140 women with climacteric symptoms. The aim of the study was to evaluate the correlation between the presence and severity of depressive symptoms and allopregnanolone levels in women during late menopausal transition and early postmenopause. METHODS The study group was divided into two groups: 45 women in late menopausal transition and 95 early postmenopausal women. We evaluated Kupperman index, Hamilton scale and serum follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, 17β-estradiol, prolactin, total testosterone, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate and allopregnanolone levels. RESULTS We found that serum allopregnanolone concentration was lower in early postmenopausal women compared to women in late menopausal transition; that there was a correlation between serum allopregnanolone levels in early postmenopausal women and time since last menstruation, intensity of climacteric symptoms, and intensity of depression symptoms and that there was a correlation between serum allopregnanolone levels and several depression symptoms presence (shallow sleep and symptoms of the digestive tract in women during late menopause transition; feelings of guilt, sleep disorders and general somatic symptoms in early postmenopausal women). CONCLUSION We concluded that reproductive aging is characterized by a reduction of allopregnanolone circulating levels that correlate to Hamilton depression index in early postmenopause and presence of specific depressive symptoms during late menopausal transition and early postmenopause.
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Affiliation(s)
- Radoslaw Slopien
- a Department of Gynecological Endocrinology , University of Medical Sciences of Poznań , Poznań , Poland
| | - Nicola Pluchino
- b Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology , University Hospital of Geneva , Geneva , Switzerland
| | | | - Stefan Sajdak
- c Department of Operative Gynecology , University of Medical Sciences of Poznań , Poznań , Poland
| | - Michele Luisi
- d Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology , University of Pisa , Pisa , Italy
| | | | - Andrea R Genazzani
- d Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology , University of Pisa , Pisa , Italy
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Selvaraj V, Tu LN. Current status and future perspectives: TSPO in steroid neuroendocrinology. J Endocrinol 2016; 231:R1-R30. [PMID: 27422254 DOI: 10.1530/joe-16-0241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2016] [Accepted: 07/15/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The mitochondrial translocator protein (TSPO), previously known as the peripheral benzodiazepine receptor (PBR), has received significant attention both as a diagnostic biomarker and as a therapeutic target for different neuronal disease pathologies. Recently, its functional basis believed to be mediating mitochondrial cholesterol import for steroid hormone production has been refuted by studies examining both in vivo and in vitro genetic Tspo-deficient models. As a result, there now exists a fundamental gap in the understanding of TSPO function in the nervous system, and its putative pharmacology in neurosteroid production. In this review, we discuss several recent findings in steroidogenic cells that are in direct contradiction to previous studies, and necessitate a re-examination of the purported role for TSPO in de novo neurosteroid biosynthesis. We critically examine the pharmacological effects of different TSPO-binding drugs with particular focus on studies that measure neurosteroid levels. We highlight the basis of key misconceptions regarding TSPO that continue to pervade the literature, and the need for interpretation with caution to avoid negative impacts. We also summarize the emerging perspectives that point to new directions that need to be investigated for understanding the molecular function of TSPO, only after which the true potential of this therapeutic target in medicine may be realized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vimal Selvaraj
- Department of Animal ScienceCornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA
| | - Lan N Tu
- Department of Animal ScienceCornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA
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Frye CA, Koonce CJ, Walf AA. The pregnane xenobiotic receptor, a prominent liver factor, has actions in the midbrain for neurosteroid synthesis and behavioral/neural plasticity of female rats. Front Syst Neurosci 2014; 8:60. [PMID: 24795576 PMCID: PMC4001026 DOI: 10.3389/fnsys.2014.00060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2014] [Accepted: 03/31/2014] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
A novel factor of interest for growth/plasticity in the brain is pregnane xenobiotic receptor (PXR). PXR is a liver factor known for its role in xenobiotic clearance and cholesterol metabolism. It is expressed in the brain, suggesting a potential role for plasticity, particularly involving cholesterol-based steroids and neurosteroids. Mating induces synthesis of neurosteroids in the midbrain Ventral Tegmental Area (VTA) of female rodents, as well as other “plastic” regions of the brain, including the hippocampus, that may be involved in the consolidation of the mating experience. Reducing PXR in the VTA attenuates mating-induced biosynthesis of the neurosteroid, 5α-pregnan-3α-ol-20-one (3α,5α-THP). The 18 kDA translocator protein (TSPO) is one rate-limiting factor for 3α,5α-THP neurosteroidogenesis. The hypothesis tested was that PXR is an upstream factor of TSPO for neurosteroidogenesis of 3α,5α-THP in the VTA for lordosis, independent of peripheral glands. First, proestrous rats were administered a TSPO blocker (PK11195) and/or 3α,5α-THP following infusions of PXR antisense oligonucleotides (AS-ODNs) or vehicle to the VTA. Inhibiting TSPO with PK11195 reduced 3α,5α-THP levels in the midbrain and lordosis, an effect that could be reversed with 3α,5α-THP administration, but not AS-ODN+3α,5α-THP. Second, proestrous, ovariectomized (OVX), or ovariectomized/adrenalectomized (OVX/ADX) rats were infused with a TSPO enhancer (FGIN 1-27) subsequent to AS-ODNs or vehicle to the VTA. PXR AS-ODNs blocked actions of FGIN 1–27 for lordosis and 3α,5α-THP levels among proestrous > OVX > OVX/ADX rats. Thus, PXR may be upstream of TSPO, involved in neurosteroidogenesis of 3α,5α-THP in the brain for plasticity. This novel finding of a liver factor involved in behavioral/neural plasticity substantiates future studies investigating factors known for their prominent actions in the peripheral organs, such as the liver, for modulating brain function and its augmentation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheryl A Frye
- Department of Psychology, The University at Albany-SUNY Albany, NY, USA ; Department of Biological Sciences, The University at Albany-SUNY Albany, NY, USA ; The Center for Neuroscience Research, The University at Albany-SUNY Albany, NY, USA ; The Center for Life Sciences Research, The University at Albany-SUNY Albany, NY, USA ; Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, The University of Alaska-Fairbanks Fairbanks, AK, USA ; Institute of Arctic Biology, The University of Alaska-Fairbanks Fairbanks, AK, USA ; IDeA Network of Biomedical Excellence (INBRE), The University of Alaska-Fairbanks Fairbanks, AK, USA
| | - Carolyn J Koonce
- Department of Psychology, The University at Albany-SUNY Albany, NY, USA ; Institute of Arctic Biology, The University of Alaska-Fairbanks Fairbanks, AK, USA ; IDeA Network of Biomedical Excellence (INBRE), The University of Alaska-Fairbanks Fairbanks, AK, USA
| | - Alicia A Walf
- Department of Psychology, The University at Albany-SUNY Albany, NY, USA ; Institute of Arctic Biology, The University of Alaska-Fairbanks Fairbanks, AK, USA ; IDeA Network of Biomedical Excellence (INBRE), The University of Alaska-Fairbanks Fairbanks, AK, USA
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Maternal treatment with picrotoxin in late pregnancy improved female sexual behavior but did not alter male sexual behavior of offspring. Behav Pharmacol 2013; 24:282-90. [DOI: 10.1097/fbp.0b013e3283633662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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8
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Expression profiles of genes regulating dairy cow fertility: recent findings, ongoing activities and future possibilities. Animal 2012; 2:1158-67. [PMID: 22443728 DOI: 10.1017/s1751731108002371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Subfertility has negative effects for dairy farm profitability, animal welfare and sustainability of animal production. Increasing herd sizes and economic pressures restrict the amount of time that farmers can spend on counteractive management. Genetic improvement will become increasingly important to restore reproductive performance. Complementary to traditional breeding value estimation procedures, genomic selection based on genome-wide information will become more widely applied. Functional genomics, including transcriptomics (gene expression profiling), produces the information to understand the consequences of selection as it helps to unravel physiological mechanisms underlying female fertility traits. Insight into the latter is needed to develop new effective management strategies to combat subfertility. Here, the importance of functional genomics for dairy cow reproduction so far and in the near future is evaluated. Recent gene profiling studies in the field of dairy cow fertility are reviewed and new data are presented on genes that are expressed in the brains of dairy cows and that are involved in dairy cow oestrus (behaviour). Fast-developing new research areas in the field of functional genomics, such as epigenetics, RNA interference, variable copy numbers and nutrigenomics, are discussed including their promising future value for dairy cow fertility.
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Frye CA, Paris JJ. Effects of neurosteroid actions at N-methyl-D-aspartate and GABA A receptors in the midbrain ventral tegmental area for anxiety-like and mating behavior of female rats. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2011; 213:93-103. [PMID: 20878318 PMCID: PMC3619725 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-010-2016-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2009] [Accepted: 09/03/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE In the midbrain ventral tegmental area (VTA), actions of neurosteroids, such as the progesterone metabolite, 5α-pregnan-3α-ol-20-one (3α,5α-THP), can facilitate mating and influence stress-related processes. Some actions of 3α,5α-THP may occur via positive modulation of GABA(A) receptors (GBRs), or negative modulation of N-methyl-D: -aspartate receptors (NMDARs), to influence anxiety-like behavior; but this is not known. OBJECTIVES We aimed to assess the role that neurosteroids and stress factors play on intra-VTA NMDAR- and/or GBR-mediated anxiety-like and mating behavior. METHODS Estradiol-primed, ovariectomized rats, which were partially or completely adrenalectomized (ADX), received infusions of vehicle, an NMDAR blocker (MK-801; 200 ng), or a GBR antagonist (bicuculline, 100 ng) to the VTA. Rats then received intra-VTA vehicle or a neurosteroidogenesis enhancer (N,N-Dihexyl-2-(4-fluorophenyl)indole-3-acetamide, FGIN 1-27, 5 μg) and anxiety-like and sexual behavior was assessed. RESULTS Complete, compared to partial, ADX significantly reduced open arm exploration on an elevated plus maze, the proportion of females that engaged in mating, lordosis quotients, pacing of sexual contacts, and defensive aggression towards a sexually vigorous male. Intra-VTA MK-801 enhanced open arm investigation and the proportion of females that engaged in mating. Infusions of either, MK-801 or FGIN 1-27, enhanced lordosis and, when co-administered, FGIN 1-27 attenuated MK-801's lordosis-enhancing effects. Intra-VTA infusions of bicuculline, prior to FGIN 1-27, blocked FGIN 1-27's effects to enhance lordosis. CONCLUSIONS Together, these data suggest that reduced NMDAR activity in the VTA may influence motivation to explore and engage in sexual behavior. These data suggest that neurosteroid actions at NMDARs and GBRs in the VTA are important for exploration and/or sexual behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheryl A Frye
- Department of Psychology, The University at Albany-SUNY, 1400 Washington Avenue, Albany, NY 12222, USA.
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10
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Frye CA, Rhodes ME. Fluoxetine-induced decrements in sexual responses of female rats and hamsters are reversed by 3α,5α-THP. J Sex Med 2010; 7:2670-80. [PMID: 20412429 DOI: 10.1111/j.1743-6109.2010.01814.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Sexual dysfunction, as a result of selective-serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) treatment among women, is relatively common and is a factor in medication compliance. The mechanisms that underlie these side-effects of SSRIs are not well-understood. SSRIs can alter activity of catabolic enzymes that are involved in progesterone's conversion to 5 α-pregnan-3 α-ol-20-one (3 α,5 α-THP). 3 α,5 α-THP plays a key role in female reproductive physiology and behavior. AIMS This study aimed to determine whether 3 α,5 α-THP, in the midbrain ventral tegmental area (VTA) may be a potential mechanism for fluoxetine's reduction in sexual responding of female rodents. We hypothesized that if fluoxetine induces decrements in sexual responding in part through actions of 3 α,5 α-THP, then fluoxetine will inhibit sexual receptivity concomitant with reducing 3 α,5 α-THP levels, effects which can be reversed by 3 α,5 α-THP administration. METHODS Experiment 1 investigated effects of acute systemic fluoxetine [20 mg/kg intraperitoneal (IP)] and/or 3 α,5 α-THP [500 µg, subcutaneous (SC)] administration on sexual responding of ovariectomized, hormone-primed rats. Experiment 2 examined effects of 3 α,5 α-THP administration to the midbrain VTA (100 ng) on fluoxetine-induced decrements in lordosis of ovariectomized, hormone-primed rats and hamsters. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Sexual responding was determined in rats and hamsters. For rats, the percentage of times that the lordosis response occurred following mounting by a sexually-vigorous male (lordosis quotients) was utilized. For hamsters, lateral displacement, the pelvic movement that females will make to facilitate intromissions by a male hamster, was utilized. RESULTS Fluoxetine significantly reduced lordosis, and this was reversed SC 3 α,5 α-THP. Intra-VTA 3 α,5 α-THP attenuated fluoxetine's detrimental effects on lordosis quotients and lateral displacement of rats and hamsters, respectively. CONCLUSIONS Thus, fluoxetine's effects to disrupt female sexual responses may involve its effects on progestogens in the midbrain VTA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheryl A Frye
- Departments of Psychology and Biology, Centers for Neuroscience and Life Sciences Research, University at Albany, SUNY, Albany, NY, USA.
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Frye CA, Walf AA. Activity of protein kinase C is important for 3alpha,5alpha-THP's actions at dopamine type 1-like and/or GABAA receptors in the ventral tegmental area for lordosis of rats. Brain Res Bull 2008; 77:91-7. [PMID: 18675324 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2008.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2008] [Revised: 07/03/2008] [Accepted: 07/04/2008] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
In the ventral tegmental area, progestogens facilitate sexual receptivity of rodents via actions at dopamine type 1-like and/or gamma-aminobutyric acid type A receptors and activation of downstream signal transduction molecules. In the present study, we investigated whether effects of progesterone's metabolite, 3alpha,5alpha-THP, to enhance lordosis via actions at these receptors in the ventral tegmental area requires phospholipase C-dependent protein kinase C. The objective of this study was to test the hypothesis that: if progestogens' actions through dopamine type 1-like and/or gamma-aminobutyric acid type A receptors in the ventral tegmental area for lordosis require protein kinase C, then inhibiting protein kinase C in the ventral tegmental area should reduce 3alpha,5alpha-THP-facilitated lordosis and its enhancement by dopamine type 1-like or gamma-aminobutyric acid type A receptor agonists. Ovariectomized, estradiol (E(2); 10 microg s.c. at h 0)-primed rats were tested for their baseline lordosis responses and then received a series of three infusions to the ventral tegmental area: first, bisindolylmaleimide (75 nM/side) or vehicle; second, SKF38393 (100 ng/side), muscimol (100 ng/side), or vehicle; third, 3alpha,5alpha-THP (100, 200 ng/side) or vehicle. Rats were pre-tested for lordosis and motor behavior and then tested for lordosis after each infusion and 10 and 60 min after the last infusion. Rats were tested for motor behavior following their last lordosis test. As has been previously demonstrated, 3alpha,5alpha-THP infusions to the ventral tegmental area increased lordosis and effects were further enhanced by infusions of SKF38393 and muscimol. Infusions of bisindolylmaleimide to the ventral tegmental area attenuated 3alpha,5alpha-THP-, SKF38393-, and/or muscimol-facilitated lordosis. Effects on lordosis were not solely due to changes in general motor behavior. Thus, 3alpha,5alpha-THP's actions in the ventral tegmental area through membrane receptors may require activity of protein kinase C.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheryl A Frye
- Department of Psychology, The University at Albany-SUNY, Albany, NY 12222, USA
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12
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Frye CA, Walf AA. In the ventral tegmental area, the membrane-mediated actions of progestins for lordosis of hormone-primed hamsters involve phospholipase C and protein kinase C. J Neuroendocrinol 2007; 19:717-24. [PMID: 17680887 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2826.2007.01580.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Progestin-facilitated lordosis of rodents is enhanced by activation of dopamine type 1 (D(1)) or GABA(A) receptors, their downstream G-proteins, and/or second messengers in the ventral tegmental area (VTA). We examined whether the ability of progestins to enhance lordosis via actions at D(1) and/or GABA(A) receptors is contingent upon activation of the second messenger phospholipase C (PLC) and its associated kinase, protein kinase C (PKC), in the VTA. If the actions of progestins through D(1) and GABA(A) receptors in the VTA are mediated through PLC and PKC, then inhibiting PLC formation (Experiment 1) or blocking PKC (Experiment 2) should reduce progestin-facilitated lordosis and its enhancement by D(1) (SKF38393) or GABA(A) (muscimol) receptor agonists. In Experiment 1, ovariectomised hamsters, primed with oestradiol (10 microg; h 0) + progesterone (100 microg; h 45), were pretested for lordosis and motor behaviour (h 48) and then infused with the PLC inhibitor, U73122 (400 nM/side), or vehicle. Thirty minutes later, hamsters were retested and then received infusions of SKF38393 (100 ng/side), muscimol (100 ng/side), or vehicle to the VTA. Hamsters were post-tested for lordosis and motor behaviour 30 min later. In Experiment 2, a similar protocol was utilised except that instead of the PLC inhibitor hamsters were infused with the PKC inhibitor, bisindolylmaleimide (75 nM/side). Systemic progesterone, SKF38393-, and muscimol-facilitated lordosis was attenuated by infusion of the PLC inhibitor, U73122, or the PKC inhibitor, bisindolylmaleimide, compared to vehicle to the VTA. Thus, the actions of progestins in the VTA to enhance lordosis through D(1) and/or GABA(A) may include downstream activity of PLC and PKC.
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MESH Headings
- 2,3,4,5-Tetrahydro-7,8-dihydroxy-1-phenyl-1H-3-benzazepine/metabolism
- 2,3,4,5-Tetrahydro-7,8-dihydroxy-1-phenyl-1H-3-benzazepine/pharmacology
- Animals
- Cell Membrane/metabolism
- Cricetinae
- Dopamine Agonists/metabolism
- Dopamine Agonists/pharmacology
- Estrenes/metabolism
- Estrenes/pharmacology
- Female
- GABA Agonists/metabolism
- GABA Agonists/pharmacology
- Indoles/metabolism
- Indoles/pharmacology
- Lordosis
- Maleimides/metabolism
- Maleimides/pharmacology
- Motor Activity/drug effects
- Motor Activity/physiology
- Muscimol/metabolism
- Muscimol/pharmacology
- Ovariectomy
- Progestins/metabolism
- Progestins/pharmacology
- Protein Kinase C/antagonists & inhibitors
- Protein Kinase C/metabolism
- Pyrrolidinones/metabolism
- Pyrrolidinones/pharmacology
- Receptors, Dopamine D1/metabolism
- Receptors, GABA-A/metabolism
- Type C Phospholipases/antagonists & inhibitors
- Type C Phospholipases/metabolism
- Ventral Tegmental Area/metabolism
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Affiliation(s)
- C A Frye
- Departments of Psychology and Biological Sciences, and the Centers for Neurosience and Life Sciences Research, The University at Albany-SUNY, 1400 Washington Avenue, Albany, NY 12222, USA.
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Frye CA. Progestins influence motivation, reward, conditioning, stress, and/or response to drugs of abuse. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2007; 86:209-19. [PMID: 16979750 PMCID: PMC3613144 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2006.07.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2006] [Revised: 06/09/2006] [Accepted: 07/25/2006] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Progesterone (pregn-4-ene-3,20-dione; P) and its metabolite 5alpha-pregnan-3alpha-ol-20-one (3alpha,5alpha-THP) are secreted by ovaries, adrenals, and glial cells. 3alpha,5alpha-THP in the midbrain ventral tegmental area mediates sexual receptivity of rodents through its actions at GABA(A), NMDA, and/or D(1) receptors. The extent to which 3alpha,5alpha-THP may influence anti-anxiety/anti-stress effects, conditioning and/or reward through these substrates and/or by altering hypothalamic pituitary adrenal axis function is discussed. Biosynthesis of 3alpha,5alpha-THP occurs in responses to mating and may underlie some of the rewarding aspects of sexual behavior. Recent findings from our laboratory which demonstrate that progestins can enhance approach to novel stimuli, conditioning, and reinforcement are reviewed. How progestins' effects on these processes may underlie response to drugs of abuse is considered and new findings which demonstrate interactions between progestins and cocaine are presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheryl A Frye
- Department of Psychology, Centers for Neuroscience and Life Sciences Research, The University at Albany, NY 12222, USA.
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Frye CA, Rhodes ME. Infusions of 5alpha-pregnan-3alpha-ol-20-one (3alpha,5alpha-THP) to the ventral tegmental area, but not the substantia nigra, enhance exploratory, anti-anxiety, social and sexual behaviours and concomitantly increase 3alpha,5alpha-THP concentrations in the hippocampus, diencephalon and cortex of ovariectomised oestrogen-primed rats. J Neuroendocrinol 2006; 18:960-75. [PMID: 17076771 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2826.2006.01494.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Sequential actions of 17beta-oestradiol (E2) and progesterone (P4) in the ventromedial hypothalamus (VMH) and ventral tegmental area (VTA) mediate sexual behaviour of female rodents. In the presence of appropriate environmental stimuli, E2 and P4 can facilitate initiation of sex behaviour (i.e. lordosis), in part through classic actions at intracellular progestin receptors in the VMH. However, the effects of P4 in the VTA to modulate lordosis involve its metabolite, 5alpha-pregnan-3alpha-ol-20-one (3alpha,5alpha-THP), which can have paracrine effects in the brain to reduce anxiety and stress. We investigated the effects of 3alpha,5alpha-THP infusions to the VTA, and a control site, the substantia nigra (SN), on exploratory, anti-anxiety, social and sexual behaviours (socio-sexual behaviours) and hormone levels in the midbrain and other regions (hippocampus, diencephalon and cortex) that may mediate these functions. Ovariectomised, rats were E2-primed (10 microg, s.c.) at 0 h and were infused with beta-cyclodextrin vehicle or 3alpha,5alpha-THP to the VTA or SN 44-48 h later. Ten minutes after infusions, rats were tested in the open field, plus maze, partner preference, social interaction and paced mating tasks, or served as nontested controls. Infusions of 3alpha,5alpha-THP to the VTA, but not the SN, increased central entries in the open field, open arm time in the plus maze, time spent in proximity to a male, duration of social interaction, incidence and intensity of lordosis, pacing, proceptivity, and anti-conflict behaviour. 3Alpha,5alpha-THP, but not vehicle, infusions to the VTA (but not the SN) also increased 3alpha,5alpha-THP levels in the midbrain, as well as the hippocampus, diencephalon and cortex. Behavioural testing increased levels of the precursor of 3alpha,5alpha-THP precursor, dihydroprogesterone (DHP). Thus, infusions of 3alpha,5alpha-THP to the VTA enhance socio-sexual behaviours and increase 3alpha,5alpha-THP levels in the hippocampus, diencephalon and cortex, and behavioural testing increases DHP levels in brain areas involved in modulating socio-sexual behaviours.
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Affiliation(s)
- C A Frye
- Department of Psychology, The University of Albany-SUNY, Albany, NY 12222, USA.
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15
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Frye CA, Walf AA, Petralia SM. In the ventral tegmental area, progestins have actions at D1 receptors for lordosis of hamsters and rats that involve GABA A receptors. Horm Behav 2006; 50:332-7. [PMID: 16750831 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2006.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2005] [Revised: 04/14/2006] [Accepted: 04/18/2006] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
In the ventral tegmental area (VTA), progestins facilitate lordosis via actions at gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)(A)/benzodiazepine receptor complexes (GBRs) and dopamine type 1 receptors (D1). The relationship between progestins' actions at GBRs and D1 in the VTA for facilitating sexual behavior of hamsters and rats was examined. Ovariectomized (ovx), estradiol (E(2); 10 microg)+progesterone (P; 250 microg; SC)-primed hamsters, with bilateral guide cannulae to the VTA, were pre-tested for sexual and motor behavior and infused with the GBR antagonist bicuculline (100 ng/side) or vehicle. Thirty minutes later, hamsters were re-tested and then infused with the D1 agonist SKF38393 (100 ng/side) or vehicle. Hamsters were post-tested 30 min later. Ovx, E(2) (10 microg)-primed rats were pre-tested, infused first with bicuculline or vehicle, second with SKF38393 or vehicle, third with 5alpha-pregnan-3alpha-ol-20-one (3alpha,5alpha-THP; 0, 100, or 200 ng) and were post-tested 10 and 60 min after 3alpha,5alpha-THP infusions. VTA infusions of SKF38393 increased lordosis of hamsters or rats. Bicuculline pretreatment reduced SKF38393- and/or progesterone-mediated increases in lordosis of E2-primed hamsters. In E2-primed rats, bicuculline blocked SKF38393- and/or 3alpha,5alpha-THP-mediated increases in lordosis. There were no effects on motor behavior. Thus, in the VTA, GBR activity modulates D1-mediated actions for lordosis of hamsters and rats.
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MESH Headings
- 2,3,4,5-Tetrahydro-7,8-dihydroxy-1-phenyl-1H-3-benzazepine/administration & dosage
- 2,3,4,5-Tetrahydro-7,8-dihydroxy-1-phenyl-1H-3-benzazepine/pharmacology
- Animals
- Bicuculline/pharmacology
- Cricetinae
- Desoxycorticosterone/administration & dosage
- Desoxycorticosterone/analogs & derivatives
- Desoxycorticosterone/pharmacology
- Dopamine Agonists/administration & dosage
- Dopamine Agonists/pharmacology
- Female
- GABA Antagonists/pharmacology
- Injections
- Male
- Motor Activity/drug effects
- Posture
- Progestins/pharmacology
- Rats
- Rats, Long-Evans
- Receptors, Dopamine D1/drug effects
- Receptors, GABA-A/physiology
- Sexual Behavior, Animal/drug effects
- Species Specificity
- Steroids/administration & dosage
- Steroids/pharmacology
- Ventral Tegmental Area/drug effects
- Ventral Tegmental Area/physiology
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheryl A Frye
- Department of Psychology, The University at Albany-SUNY, Albany, NY 12222, USA.
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Frye CA, Walf AA, Petralia SM. Progestin facilitation of lordosis in rodents involves adenylyl cyclase activity in the ventral tegmental area. Horm Behav 2006; 50:237-44. [PMID: 16643916 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2006.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2006] [Revised: 03/13/2006] [Accepted: 03/14/2006] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Increasing cAMP, or activating dopamine type 1 (D(1)) or GABA(A)/benzodiazepine receptor complexes (GBRs), in the ventral tegmental area (VTA) enhances lordosis of rodents. Whether D(1)- and/or GBR-mediated increases in progestin-facilitated lordosis involve the cAMP-synthesizing enzyme, adenylyl cyclase, in the VTA, was investigated. In Experiment 1, ovariectomized estradiol (E(2); 10 microg at h 0)+progesterone (P; 250 microg at h 45)-primed hamsters first received bilateral infusions of the adenylyl cyclase inhibitor, 2',5'-dideoxyadenosine (DDA; 12 microM/side), or vehicle, and then were infused with the D(1) agonist, SKF38393 (100 ng/side), the GBR agonist, muscimol (100 ng/side), or vehicle, to the VTA. Lordosis was evaluated before and 30 min after each infusion. In Experiment 2, ovariectomized, E(2)-primed (10 microg at h 0) rats received VTA infusions of DDA (12 microM/side) or vehicle; SKF38393 (100 ng/side), muscimol (100 ng/side), or vehicle; and the neurosteroid, 5alpha-pregnan-3alpha-ol-20-one (3alpha,5alpha-THP; 100 or 200 ng/side), or beta-cyclodextrin vehicle. Lordosis was assessed before the series of infusions, immediately after drug infusions and 10 or 60 min after 3alpha,5alpha-THP infusions. Progestin- or progestin plus SKF38393-or muscimol-mediated increases in lordosis were blocked by DDA pretreatment. Thus, in the VTA, progestins' membrane action may involve adenylyl cyclase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheryl A Frye
- Department of Psychology, The University at Albany-SUNY, 1400 Washington Avenue, Albany, NY 12222, USA.
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17
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Frye CA, Walf AA, Petralia SM. Progestins' effects on sexual behaviour of female rats and hamsters involving D1 and GABA(A) receptors in the ventral tegmental area may be G-protein-dependent. Behav Brain Res 2006; 172:286-93. [PMID: 16780967 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2006.05.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2005] [Revised: 05/05/2006] [Accepted: 05/12/2006] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
In the ventral tegmental area (VTA), progestins have actions involving dopamine type 1-like receptors (D(1)) and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)(A)/benzodiazepine receptor complexes (GBRs) for lordosis. Evidence suggests that D(1) and GBRs can have G-protein-mediated effects. We investigated if, in the VTA, inhibiting G-proteins prevents D(1)- and/or GBR-mediated increases in progestin-facilitated lordosis. Hamsters, with bilateral guide cannulae to the VTA, received systemic E(2) (10 microg) at hour 0 and progesterone (P, 250 microg) at hour 45. At hour 48, hamsters were pre-tested for lordosis and infused with the G-protein inhibitor, guanosine 5'-O-(2-thiodiphosphate) (GDP-beta-S, 50 microM/side), or 10% DMSO saline vehicle. Thirty minutes after initial infusions, hamsters were re-tested and then immediately infused with the D(1) agonist, SKF38393 (100 ng/side), the GBR agonist, muscimol (100 ng/side), or saline vehicle. Hamsters were post-tested for lordosis 30 min later. For rats, E(2) (10 microg) priming at hour 0 was followed by lordosis pre-testing at hour 44. After pre-testing, rats received infusions of GDP-beta-S or vehicle, followed by infusions of SKF38393, muscimol, or vehicle and then infusions of the neurosteroid, 5alpha-pregnan-3alpha-ol-20-one (3alpha,5alpha-THP, 100 or 200 ng/side), or beta-cyclodextrin vehicle. Rats were tested immediately after each infusion of SKF38393, muscimol or vehicle, as well as 10 and 60 min after 3alpha,5alpha-THP or vehicle infusions. Inhibiting G-proteins, in the VTA, reduced the ability of systemic P or intra-VTA SKF38393 or muscimol to facilitate lordosis of E(2)-primed hamsters. Blocking G-proteins, in the VTA, prevented SKF38393-, muscimol- and/or 3alpha,5alpha-THP-mediated increases in lordosis of E(2)-primed rats. Thus, progestins' actions in the VTA for lordosis that involve D(1) and/or GBRs may also include recruitment of G-proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheryl A Frye
- Department of Psychology, Life Sciences 1058, The University at Albany-SUNY, Albany, NY 12222, USA.
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18
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Petralia SM, Frye CA. In the ventral tegmental area, G-proteins mediate progesterone's actions at dopamine type 1 receptors for lordosis of rats and hamsters. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2006; 186:133-42. [PMID: 16482481 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-006-0311-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2005] [Accepted: 12/22/2005] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE Previous reports indicate that the ventral tegmental area (VTA) and/or progesterone (P) can modulate the reinforcing effects of drugs of abuse, food, and sexual behavior. OBJECTIVES We investigated if, in the VTA, P's membrane-mediated actions for lordosis involve dopamine type 1 receptors (D(1)). Also, whether P's actions at D(1) for lordosis are mediated by typical G-protein coupled mechanisms was examined. METHODS In Exps 1 and 2, rats received estradiol (E(2) 10 microg) at h 0 and infusions of the D(1) antagonist SCH23390 (100 ng), the D(1) agonist SKF38393 (100 ng), or vehicle, to the VTA, at h 44. Thirty minutes later, rats received systemic P (0, 50, 100, or 200 microg). Subjects were tested for lordosis and motor behavior 2.5 h later. In Exps 3 and 4, E(2)+P (rats 0 or 100 microg; hamsters 200 microg)-primed animals were pretested for lordosis and motor behavior at h 47.5 and infused with SKF38393 (100 ng) or vehicle to the VTA. Thirty minutes later, subjects were retested and infused with the G-protein inhibitor guanosine 5'-O-(2-Thiodiphosphate) (GDP-beta-S; 50 microM) or vehicle. Post-testing occurred 30 min later. RESULTS Pretreatment with SCH23390-reduced and SKF38393-enhanced P's actions, in the VTA, for lordosis of E(2)-primed rats and hamsters. As well, D(1)-mediated increases in P-facilitated lordosis of rats and hamsters were inhibited by GDP-beta-S. Changes in lordosis were independent of large alterations in motor behavior. CONCLUSIONS In the VTA, P has actions for modulating reinforcing behaviors, such as lordosis, at D(1) that are G-protein-mediated.
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MESH Headings
- 2,3,4,5-Tetrahydro-7,8-dihydroxy-1-phenyl-1H-3-benzazepine/pharmacology
- Animals
- Behavior, Animal/drug effects
- Behavior, Animal/physiology
- Benzazepines/pharmacology
- Cricetinae
- Dopamine Agonists/pharmacology
- Dopamine Antagonists/pharmacology
- Female
- GTP-Binding Proteins/metabolism
- Lordosis/metabolism
- Lordosis/physiopathology
- Motor Activity/drug effects
- Motor Activity/physiology
- Ovariectomy
- Progesterone/pharmacology
- Rats
- Rats, Long-Evans
- Receptors, Dopamine D1/agonists
- Receptors, Dopamine D1/antagonists & inhibitors
- Receptors, Dopamine D1/metabolism
- Ventral Tegmental Area/drug effects
- Ventral Tegmental Area/metabolism
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra M Petralia
- Department of Psychology, The University at Albany, SUNY, Albany, NY, 12222, USA
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Petralia SM, Walf AA, Frye CA. In the ventral tegmental area, progestins' membrane-mediated actions for lordosis of hamsters and rats involve protein kinase A. Neuroendocrinology 2006; 84:405-14. [PMID: 17384517 DOI: 10.1159/000100510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2006] [Accepted: 11/24/2006] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Progestin-facilitated lordosis of hamsters and rats is enhanced by activation of dopamine type 1 (D1) or GABAA/benzodiazepine receptor complexes (GBRs) in the ventral tegmental area (VTA) and these effects involve G-proteins and second messengers, such as adenosine 3',5'-monophosphate (cAMP). We examined whether D1- and/or GBR-mediated increases in progestin-facilitated lordosis of female hamsters and rats involve the cAMP-dependent protein kinase, protein kinase A (PKA), in the VTA. In experiment 1, ovariectomized hamsters, primed with estradiol (E2; 10 microg at h 0) + progesterone (P; 100 microg at h 45), were first pre-tested for lordosis and motor behavior (h 48) and then infused with the PKA inhibitor, Rp-cAMP (100 ng/side), or vehicle. Thirty minutes later, hamsters were retested and then received infusions of the D1 agonist, SKF38393 (100 ng/side), the GBR agonist, muscimol (100 ng/side), or vehicle to the VTA. Hamsters were post-tested for lordosis and motor behavior 30 min later. In Experiment 2, ovariectomized rats, primed with E2 (10 microg at h 0), were first pre-tested for lordosis and then infused with Rp-cAMP (100 ng/side) or vehicle to the VTA at h 44. Immediately after testing, rats received infusions of SKF38393 (100 ng/side), muscimol (100 ng/side), or vehicle and were retested for lordosis. Rats were then infused with the neurosteroid, 5alpha-pregnan-3alpha-ol-20-one (3alpha,5alpha-THP; 100 or 200 ng/side), or beta-cyclodextrin vehicle and were post-tested for lordosis and motor behavior 10 and 60 min later. The enhancing effects of progestins or progestins plus D1 or GBR activation on lordosis of E2-primed hamsters and rats were blocked by the PKA inhibitor, Rp-cAMP. Thus, in the VTA, progestins' membrane actions involving D1 or GBRs are mediated, in part, by PKA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra M Petralia
- Department of Psychology , The University at Albany, SUNY, Albany, NY 12222, USA
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Frye CA, Sumida K, Zimmerberg B, Brunelli SA. Rats bred for high versus low anxiety responses neonatally demonstrate increases in lordosis, pacing behavior, and midbrain 3α,5α-THP levels as adults. Behav Neurosci 2006; 120:281-9. [PMID: 16719692 DOI: 10.1037/0735-7044.120.2.281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Duration and intensity of lordosis is mediated by actions of the progesterone (P) metabolite, 3 alpha-hydroxy-5 alpha-pregnan-20-one (3 alpha,5 alpha-THP) at GABA-sub(A) receptors in the midbrain ventral tegmental area. Because rats selectively bred for infantile vocalizations may differ in endogenous 3 alpha,5 alpha-THP secretion, their sexual behavior, midbrain, and plasma 3 alpha,5 alpha-THP levels as adult rats in behavioral estrus was examined. Rats bred for high rates of infantile vocalizations had shorter latencies and intervals between intromissions and ejaculation, higher lordosis quotients and ratings, more pacing of their sexual contacts, and had higher P and 3 alpha,5 alpha-THP levels in plasma and midbrain than did rats bred for low rats of infantile vocalizations. Thus, levels of 3 alpha,5 alpha-THP in the midbrain are associated with differences in sexual behavior of these rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- C A Frye
- Department of Psychology, University at Albany, State University of New York, Albany, NY 12222, USA.
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Teodorov E, Moraes AP, Felicio LF, Varolli FM, Bernardi MM. Perinatal maternal exposure to picrotoxin: Effects on sexual behavior in female rat offspring. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2005; 81:935-42. [PMID: 16098570 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2005.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2003] [Revised: 06/30/2005] [Accepted: 07/07/2005] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
A previous study in our laboratory showed that perinatal maternal picrotoxin exposure (0.75 mg/kg) in rats improved heterosexual behavior in male offspring. In the present study, we examined the effects of this maternal treatment on sexual behavior in the female offspring. The dams received 0.75 mg/kg picrotoxin treatment (PT) once a day on the 18th and 21st day of pregnancy, 2 h after parturition and once a day during the first 4 days of lactation. The results showed that (1) at birth, the body weight and anogenital distance were not modified by treatment; (2) female sexual behavior was improved in experimental animals. These results demonstrate that perinatal picrotoxin exposure improves adult sexual behavior in female rat offspring as suggested by increase in the lordosis quotient.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Teodorov
- Departamento de Patologia, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Prof. Dr. Orlando Marques de Paiva, 87, CEP:05508-900, São Paulo, Brazil
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