1
|
Vierkant V, Xie X, Huang Z, He L, Bancroft E, Wang X, Nguyen T, Srinivasan R, Zhou Y, Wang J. Optogenetic inhibition of light-captured alcohol-taking striatal engrams facilitates extinction and suppresses reinstatement. ALCOHOL, CLINICAL & EXPERIMENTAL RESEARCH 2024. [PMID: 39095328 DOI: 10.1111/acer.15412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2024] [Revised: 07/09/2024] [Accepted: 07/16/2024] [Indexed: 08/04/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a complex condition, and it remains unclear which specific neuronal substrates mediate alcohol-seeking and -taking behaviors. Engram cells and their related ensembles, which encode learning and memory, may play a role in this process. We aimed to assess the precise neural substrates underlying alcohol-seeking and -taking behaviors and determine how they may affect one another. METHODS Using FLiCRE (Fast Light and Calcium-Regulated Expression; a newly developed technique which permits the trapping of acutely activated neuronal ensembles) and operant self-administration (OSA), we tagged striatal neurons activated during alcohol-taking behaviors. We used FLiCRE to express an inhibitory halorhodopsin in alcohol-taking neurons, permitting loss-of-function manipulations. RESULTS We found that the inhibition of OSA-tagged alcohol-taking neurons decreased both alcohol-seeking and -taking behaviors in future OSA trials. In addition, optogenetic inhibition of these OSA-tagged alcohol-taking neurons during extinction training facilitated the extinction of alcohol-seeking behaviors. Furthermore, inhibition of these OSA-tagged alcohol-taking neurons suppressed the reinstatement of alcohol-seeking behaviors, but, interestingly, it did not significantly suppress alcohol-taking behaviors during reinstatement. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest that alcohol-taking neurons are crucial for future alcohol-seeking behaviors during extinction and reinstatement. These results may help in the development of new therapeutic approaches to enhance extinction and suppress relapse in individuals with AUD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Valerie Vierkant
- Department of Neuroscience and Experimental Therapeutics, School of Medicine, Texas A&M University Health Science Center, Bryan, Texas, USA
| | - Xueyi Xie
- Department of Neuroscience and Experimental Therapeutics, School of Medicine, Texas A&M University Health Science Center, Bryan, Texas, USA
| | - Zhenbo Huang
- Department of Neuroscience and Experimental Therapeutics, School of Medicine, Texas A&M University Health Science Center, Bryan, Texas, USA
| | - Lian He
- Center for Translational Cancer Research, Institute of Biosciences and Technology, Texas A&M University Health Science Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Eric Bancroft
- Department of Neuroscience and Experimental Therapeutics, School of Medicine, Texas A&M University Health Science Center, Bryan, Texas, USA
| | - Xuehua Wang
- Department of Neuroscience and Experimental Therapeutics, School of Medicine, Texas A&M University Health Science Center, Bryan, Texas, USA
| | - Tran Nguyen
- Department of Neuroscience and Experimental Therapeutics, School of Medicine, Texas A&M University Health Science Center, Bryan, Texas, USA
| | - Rahul Srinivasan
- Department of Neuroscience and Experimental Therapeutics, School of Medicine, Texas A&M University Health Science Center, Bryan, Texas, USA
| | - Yubin Zhou
- Center for Translational Cancer Research, Institute of Biosciences and Technology, Texas A&M University Health Science Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Jun Wang
- Department of Neuroscience and Experimental Therapeutics, School of Medicine, Texas A&M University Health Science Center, Bryan, Texas, USA
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Vierkant V, Xie X, Huang Z, He L, Bancroft E, Wang X, Srinivisan R, Zhou Y, Wang J. Optogenetic inhibition of light-captured alcohol-taking striatal engrams facilitates extinction and suppresses reinstatement. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.06.02.597021. [PMID: 38853893 PMCID: PMC11160798 DOI: 10.1101/2024.06.02.597021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2024]
Abstract
Background Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a complex condition, and it remains unclear which specific neuronal substrates mediate alcohol-seeking and -taking behaviors. Engram cells and their related ensembles, which encode learning and memory, may play a role in this process. We aimed to assess the precise neural substrates underlying alcohol-seeking and -taking behaviors and determine how they may affect one another. Methods Using FLiCRE (Fast Light and Calcium-Regulated Expression; a newly developed technique which permits the trapping of acutely activated neuronal ensembles) and operant-self administration (OSA), we tagged striatal neurons activated during alcohol-taking behaviors. We used FLiCRE to express an inhibitory halorhodopsin in alcohol-taking neurons, permitting loss-of-function manipulations. Results We found that the inhibition of OSA-tagged alcohol-taking neurons decreased both alcohol-seeking and -taking behaviors in future OSA trials. In addition, optogenetic inhibition of these OSA-tagged alcohol-taking neurons during extinction training facilitated the extinction of alcohol-seeking behaviors. Furthermore, inhibition of these OSA-tagged alcohol-taking neurons suppressed the reinstatement of alcohol-seeking behaviors, but, interestingly, it did not significantly suppress alcohol-taking behaviors during reinstatement. Conclusions Our findings suggest that alcohol-taking neurons are crucial for future alcohol-seeking behaviors during extinction and reinstatement. These results may help in the development of new therapeutic approaches to enhance extinction and suppress relapse in individuals with AUD.
Collapse
|
3
|
Moore CF, Zamarripa CA, Weerts EM. Oral Cannabidiol does not alter Alcohol Seeking and Self-Administration in Baboons. Drug Alcohol Depend 2023; 245:109829. [PMID: 36871377 PMCID: PMC10033431 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2023.109829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2023] [Revised: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 02/17/2023] [Indexed: 03/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The cannabinoid cannabidiol (CBD) is currently under investigation as a pharmacotherapy for alcohol use disorder. The aim of the present study was to examine whether acute and chronic treatment with pure CBD would decrease alcohol seeking and consumption behaviors or alter drinking patterns in male baboons with extensive histories of daily alcohol intake (1 g/kg/day). METHODS Seven male baboons self-administered oral alcohol (4% w/v) in a validated chained schedule of reinforcement (CSR) procedure that modeled periods of anticipation, seeking, and consumption. In Experiment 1, CBD (5-40 mg/kg) or vehicle (peanut oil, USP) was administered orally 15- or 90-minutes prior to the start of the session. In Experiment 2, oral doses of CBD (10-40 mg/kg) or vehicle were administered for 5 consecutive days during ongoing alcohol access under the CSR. In addition, behavioral observations were conducted to assess potential drug side effects (e.g., sedation, motor incoordination) following chronic CBD treatment immediately after the session and 24-hours after drug administration. RESULTS Across both experiments, baboons self-administered an average of 1 g/kg/day of alcohol under baseline conditions. Administration of acute or chronic CBD (150-1200 mg total CBD dose/day) that encompassed the purported therapeutic dose range did not significantly reduce alcohol seeking, self-administration or intake (g/kg). Drinking patterns (i.e., number of drinks/bouts, bout duration, nor interdrink interval) also were not altered. There were no observable behavioral disruptions following CBD treatment. CONCLUSIONS In sum, the current data do not support use of pure CBD as an effective pharmacotherapy to reduce ongoing excessive drinking.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - C Austin Zamarripa
- Behavioral Pharmacology Research Unit, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 5510 Nathan Shock Dr., Baltimore, MD 21224, USA
| | - Elise M Weerts
- Division of Behavioral Biology, USA; Behavioral Pharmacology Research Unit, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 5510 Nathan Shock Dr., Baltimore, MD 21224, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Piacentino D, Grant-Beurmann S, Vizioli C, Li X, Moore CF, Ruiz-Rodado V, Lee MR, Joseph PV, Fraser CM, Weerts EM, Leggio L. Gut microbiome and metabolome in a non-human primate model of chronic excessive alcohol drinking. Transl Psychiatry 2021; 11:609. [PMID: 34853299 PMCID: PMC8636625 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-021-01728-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2021] [Revised: 10/27/2021] [Accepted: 11/05/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
A relationship between the gut microbiome and alcohol use disorder has been suggested. Excessive alcohol use produces changes in the fecal microbiome and metabolome in both rodents and humans. Yet, these changes can be observed only in a subgroup of the studied populations, and reversal does not always occur after abstinence. We aimed to analyze fecal microbial composition and function in a translationally relevant baboon model of chronic heavy drinking that also meets binge criteria (drinking too much, too fast, and too often), i.e., alcohol ~1 g/kg and blood alcohol levels (BALs) ≥ 0.08 g/dL in a 2-hour period, daily, for years. We compared three groups of male baboons (Papio anubis): L = Long-term alcohol drinking group (12.1 years); S = Short-term alcohol drinking group (2.7 years); and C = Control group, drinking a non-alcoholic reinforcer (Tang®) (8.2 years). Fecal collection took place during 3 days of Drinking (D), followed by a short period (3 days) of Abstinence (A). Fecal microbial alpha- and beta-diversity were significantly lower in L vs. S and C (p's < 0.05). Members of the commensal families Lachnospiraceae and Prevotellaceae showed a relative decrease, whereas the opportunistic pathogen Streptococcus genus showed a relative increase in L vs. S and C (p's < 0.05). Microbiota-related metabolites of aromatic amino acids, tricarboxylic acid cycle, and pentose increased in L vs. S and C (FDR-corrected p < 0.01), with the latter two suggesting high energy metabolism and enhanced glycolysis in the gut lumen in response to alcohol. Consistent with the long-term alcohol exposure, mucosal damage and oxidative stress markers (N-acetylated amino acids, 2-hydroxybutyrate, and metabolites of the methionine cycle) increased in L vs. S and C (FDR-corrected p < 0.01). Overall, S showed few differences vs. C, possibly due to the long-term, chronic alcohol exposure needed to alter the normal gut microbiota. In the three groups, the fecal microbiome barely differed between conditions D and A, whereas the metabolome shifted in the transition from condition D to A. In conclusion, changes in the fecal microbiome and metabolome occur after significant long-term excessive drinking and are only partially affected by acute forced abstinence from alcohol. These results provide novel information on the relationship between the fecal microbiome and metabolome in a controlled experimental setting and using a unique non-human primate model of chronic excessive alcohol drinking.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daria Piacentino
- grid.94365.3d0000 0001 2297 5165Clinical 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, Baltimore, MD 21224 USA ,grid.94365.3d0000 0001 2297 5165Center on Compulsive Behaviors, National Institutes of Health, 10 Center Dr, Bethesda, MD 20892 USA
| | - Silvia Grant-Beurmann
- grid.411024.20000 0001 2175 4264Institute for Genome Sciences, Department of Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD USA
| | - Carlotta Vizioli
- grid.420085.b0000 0004 0481 4802Sensory Science and Metabolism Unit, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism Division of Intramural Clinical and Biological Research and National Institute of Nursing Research Division of Intramural Research, 10 Center Dr, Bethesda, MD 20892 USA
| | - Xiaobai Li
- grid.94365.3d0000 0001 2297 5165Biostatistics and Clinical Epidemiology Services, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD USA
| | - Catherine F. Moore
- grid.21107.350000 0001 2171 9311Division of Behavioral Biology, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Nathan Shock Drive, Baltimore, MD 21224 USA
| | - Victor Ruiz-Rodado
- grid.94365.3d0000 0001 2297 5165Neuro-Oncology Branch, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, 10 Center Dr, Bethesda, MD 20892 USA
| | - Mary R. Lee
- grid.94365.3d0000 0001 2297 5165Clinical 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, Baltimore, MD 21224 USA
| | - Paule V. Joseph
- grid.420085.b0000 0004 0481 4802Sensory Science and Metabolism Unit, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism Division of Intramural Clinical and Biological Research and National Institute of Nursing Research Division of Intramural Research, 10 Center Dr, Bethesda, MD 20892 USA
| | - Claire M. Fraser
- grid.411024.20000 0001 2175 4264Institute for Genome Sciences, Department of Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD USA
| | - Elise M. Weerts
- grid.21107.350000 0001 2171 9311Division of Behavioral Biology, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Nathan Shock Drive, 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, Baltimore, MD, 21224, USA. .,Center on Compulsive Behaviors, National Institutes of Health, 10 Center Dr, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA. .,Medication Development Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse Intramural Research Program, National Institutes of Health, 251 Bayview Blvd, Baltimore, MD, 21224, USA. .,Center for Alcohol and Addiction Studies, Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Brown University School of Public Health, 121 South Main Street, Providence, RI, USA. .,Division of Addiction Medicine, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 733 N Broadway, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA. .,Department of Neuroscience, Georgetown University Medical Center, 3970 Reservoir Rd NW, Washington, DC, 20007, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Salling MC, Grassetti A, Ferrera VP, Martinez D, Foltin RW. Negative allosteric modulation of metabotropic glutamate receptor 5 attenuates alcohol self-administration in baboons. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2021; 208:173227. [PMID: 34224733 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2021.173227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2021] [Revised: 06/30/2021] [Accepted: 07/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Many of the behavioral symptoms that define alcohol use disorder (AUD) are thought to be mediated by amplified glutamatergic activity. As a result, previous preclinical studies have investigated glutamate receptor inhibition as a potential pharmacotherapy for AUD, particularly the metabotropic glutamate receptor 5 (mGlu5). In rodents, mGlu5 negative allosteric modulators (NAMs) have been shown to decrease alcohol self-administration. However, their effect on non-human primates has not previously been explored. To bridge this gap, the effects of mGlu5 NAM pretreatment on sweetened alcohol (8% w/v in diluted KoolAid) self-administration in female baboons were evaluated. Two different mGlu5 NAMs were tested: 1) 3-2((-Methyl-4-thiazolyl) ethynyl) pyridine (MTEP) which was administered at a dose of 2 mg/kg IM; and 2) auglurant (N-(5-fluoropyridin-2-yl)-6-methyl-4-(pyrimidin-5-yloxy)picolinamide), a newly developed NAM, which was tested under two different routes (0.001, 0.01, 0.03, 0.1 mg/kg IM and 0.1, 0.3, 1.0 mg/kg PO). MTEP decreased both fixed ratio and progressive ratio responding for sweetened alcohol. Auglurant, administered IM, decreased alcohol self-administration at doses that did not affect self-administration of an alcohol-free sweet liquid reward (0.01 to 0.1 mg/kg). Oral administration of auglurant was not effective in decreasing alcohol self-administration. Our results extend positive findings from rodent studies on mGlu5 regulation of alcohol drinking to female baboons and further strengthen the rationale for targeting mGlu5 in clinical trials for AUD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael C Salling
- Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, Lousiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, USA.
| | - Alexander Grassetti
- Departments of Psychiatry, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons and the New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, USA
| | - Vincent P Ferrera
- Departments of Neuroscience and Psychiatry, Zuckerman Mind Brain Behavior Institute, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Diana Martinez
- Departments of Psychiatry, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons and the New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, USA
| | - Richard W Foltin
- Departments of Psychiatry, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons and the New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, USA
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Domi E, Domi A, Adermark L, Heilig M, Augier E. Neurobiology of alcohol seeking behavior. J Neurochem 2021; 157:1585-1614. [PMID: 33704789 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.15343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2020] [Revised: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 03/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Alcohol addiction is a chronic relapsing brain disease characterized by an impaired ability to stop or control alcohol use despite adverse consequences. A main challenge of addiction treatment is to prevent relapse, which occurs in more than >50% of newly abstinent patients with alcohol disorder within 3 months. In people suffering from alcohol addiction, stressful events, drug-associated cues and contexts, or re-exposure to a small amount of alcohol trigger a chain of behaviors that frequently culminates in relapse. In this review, we first present the preclinical models that were developed for the study of alcohol seeking behavior, namely the reinstatement model of alcohol relapse and compulsive alcohol seeking under a chained schedule of reinforcement. We then provide an overview of the neurobiological findings obtained using these animal models, focusing on the role of opioids systems, corticotropin-release hormone and neurokinins, followed by dopaminergic, glutamatergic, and GABAergic neurotransmissions in alcohol seeking behavior.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Esi Domi
- Center for Social and Affective Neuroscience, BKV, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Ana Domi
- Addiction Biology Unit, Department of Psychiatry and Neurochemistry, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Louise Adermark
- Addiction Biology Unit, Department of Psychiatry and Neurochemistry, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Markus Heilig
- Center for Social and Affective Neuroscience, BKV, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Eric Augier
- Center for Social and Affective Neuroscience, BKV, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Witkiewitz K, Roos CR, Mann K, Kranzler HR. Advancing Precision Medicine for Alcohol Use Disorder: Replication and Extension of Reward Drinking as a Predictor of Naltrexone Response. Alcohol Clin Exp Res 2019; 43:2395-2405. [PMID: 31436886 PMCID: PMC6824945 DOI: 10.1111/acer.14183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2019] [Accepted: 08/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Background Precision medicine aims to identify those patients who will benefit the most from specific treatments. Recent work found large effects of naltrexone among “reward drinkers,” defined as individuals who drink primarily for the rewarding effects of alcohol. This study sought to replicate and extend these recent findings by examining whether the desire to drink mediated the effect of naltrexone among reward drinkers. Methods We conducted a secondary analysis of a 12‐week randomized clinical trial of daily or targeted naltrexone among problem drinkers (n = 163), with a focus on 86 individuals (n = 45 naltrexone and n = 41 placebo) who received daily medication. Interactive voice response technology was used to collect daily reports of drinking and desire to drink. Factor mixture models were used to derive reward and relief phenotypes. Moderation analyses were used to evaluate naltrexone effects, with phenotype as a moderator variable. Multilevel mediation tested average desire to drink as a mediator. Results Results indicated 4 phenotypes: low reward/low relief; low reward/high relief; high reward/low relief; and high reward/high relief. There was an interaction between the high reward/low relief subgroup (n = 10) and daily naltrexone versus placebo on drinks per drinking day (DPDD; p = 0.03), percent heavy drinking days (p = 0.004), and daily drinking (p = 0.02). As compared to placebo, individuals in the high reward/low relief phenotype who received daily naltrexone had significantly fewer DPDD (Cohen's d = 2.05) and had a lower proportion of heavy drinking days (Cohen's d = 1.75). As hypothesized, reductions in average desire to drink mediated the effect of naltrexone on average daily drinking among the high reward/low relief drinkers (moderated mediation effect: p = 0.029). Conclusions This theory‐driven study replicates the empirical finding that naltrexone is particularly efficacious among high reward/low relief drinkers. Our study brings the field a step closer to the potential of using a precision medicine approach to treating alcohol use disorder.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katie Witkiewitz
- From the, Department of Psychology, Center on Alcoholism, Substance Abuse, and Addictions, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, New Mexico
| | - Corey R Roos
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Karl Mann
- Central Institute of Mental Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Henry R Kranzler
- Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine and Crescenz Veterans Affairs Medical Center, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Holtyn AF, Weerts EM. Evaluation of mifepristone effects on alcohol-seeking and self-administration in baboons. Exp Clin Psychopharmacol 2019; 27:227-235. [PMID: 30570274 PMCID: PMC6727199 DOI: 10.1037/pha0000246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Mifepristone, a type II glucocorticoid receptor antagonist, is under investigation as a potential pharmacotherapy for alcohol use disorder. This study examined effects of chronic administration of mifepristone on alcohol-seeking and self-administration in large nonhuman primates. Adult baboons (n = 5) self-administered alcohol 7 days/week under a chained schedule of reinforcement (CSR). The CSR comprised 3 components in which distinct cues were paired with different schedule requirements, with alcohol available for self-administration only in the final component, to model different phases of alcohol anticipation, seeking, and consumption. Under baseline conditions, baboons self-administered an average of 1g/kg/day of alcohol in the self-administration period. Mifepristone (10, 20, and 30 mg/kg) or vehicle was administered orally 30 min before each CSR session for 7 consecutive days. In a separate group of baboons (n = 5) acute doses of mifepristone (10, 20, and 30 mg/kg) were administered, and blood samples were collected over 72 hr to examine mifepristone pharmacokinetics. Some samples also were collected from the baboons that self-administered alcohol under the CSR after the chronic mifepristone condition. Mifepristone did not alter alcohol-seeking or self-administration under the CSR when compared with the vehicle condition. Mifepristone pharmacokinetics were nonlinear, and appear to be capacity limited. In sum, mifepristone did not reduce alcohol-maintained behaviors when administered to baboons drinking 1g/kg daily. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2019 APA, all rights reserved).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- August F. Holtyn
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 5200 Eastern Ave, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA
| | - Elise M. Weerts
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 5510 Nathan Shock Dr, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Holtyn AF, Kaminski BJ, Weerts EM. Baclofen and naltrexone effects on alcohol self-administration: Comparison of treatment initiated during abstinence or ongoing alcohol access in baboons. Drug Alcohol Depend 2017; 179:47-54. [PMID: 28753481 PMCID: PMC5599358 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2017.06.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2017] [Revised: 06/09/2017] [Accepted: 06/12/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Baclofen, a GABAB receptor agonist, is under investigation as a pharmacotherapy for alcohol use disorder. Treatment with a pharmacotherapeutic can be initiated during alcohol abstinence or active drinking, which may influence treatment outcomes. This study examined whether baclofen treatment initiated and maintained during alcohol abstinence would reduce alcohol seeking and self-administration upon return to alcohol access, and whether effects differed from treatment initiated and maintained during ongoing alcohol access. Naltrexone was tested under similar conditions for comparison. METHODS Five baboons self-administered alcohol under a three-component chained schedule of reinforcement that modeled periods of anticipation (Component 1), seeking (Component 2), and consumption (Component 3). Alcohol was only available in Component 3. In Experiment 1, baclofen (0.1-1.8mg/kg) or naltrexone (1.0-5.6mg/kg) was administered daily beginning on the first day of a 5-day abstinence period and treatment was continued for 5days of alcohol access. In Experiment 2, selected doses of both drugs were administered during ongoing alcohol access. RESULTS When treatment was initiated during alcohol abstinence, baclofen and naltrexone did not significantly reduce total alcohol intake (g/kg) or alcohol seeking. In comparison, when treatment was initiated during ongoing alcohol access, both baclofen (1.8mg/kg) and naltrexone (3.2 and 5.6mg/kg) significantly reduced total alcohol intake (g/kg). Naltrexone (5.6mg/kg), but not baclofen, significantly reduced alcohol seeking. CONCLUSIONS Initiation of baclofen treatment (or other alcohol use disorder treatments) during abstinence or active drinking may be an important factor in influencing efficacy and appropriate dose selection.
Collapse
|
10
|
Holtyn AF, Tiruveedhula VVNPB, Stephen MR, Cook JM, Weerts EM. Effects of the benzodiazepine GABA A α1-preferring antagonist 3-isopropoxy-β-carboline hydrochloride (3-ISOPBC) on alcohol seeking and self-administration in baboons. Drug Alcohol Depend 2017; 170:25-31. [PMID: 27865151 PMCID: PMC5183547 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2016.10.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2016] [Revised: 10/28/2016] [Accepted: 10/28/2016] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The major inhibitory neurotransmitter, gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), modulates many of the behavioral effects of alcohol, including sedation, tolerance, and withdrawal. The α1 subunit of the benzodiazepine GABAA receptor is the most widely expressed alpha subunit in the brain, and has been implicated in the reinforcing- and abuse-related effects of alcohol. The aim of the present study was to examine whether treatment with a benzodiazepine GABAA α1-preferring ligand, 3-isopropoxy-β-carboline hydrochloride (3-ISOPBC), selectively decreases alcohol seeking and consumption. METHODS Eight baboons self-administered alcohol (4% w/v; n=5; alcohol group) or a non-alcoholic beverage (n=3; control group) in Component 3 of a chained schedule of reinforcement. Responses in Component 2 provided indices of motivation to drink (seeking). Doses of 3-ISOPBC (5.0-30.0mg/kg) and vehicle were administered before drinking sessions under both acute and chronic (5day) conditions. RESULTS Chronic, and not acute, administration of 3-ISOPBC significantly decreased self-administration responses, g/kg alcohol consumed, and the number of drinks in and duration of the first drinking bout in the alcohol group. In the control group, chronic administration of 3-ISOPBC did not significantly decrease any of these measures at any of the doses. CONCLUSIONS The GABAA α1-preferring ligand 3-ISOPBC may have therapeutic potential in the treatment of alcohol use disorder due to its ability to selectively reduce alcohol use.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- August F Holtyn
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Division of Behavioral Biology, 5510 Nathan Shock Dr, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA
| | - V V N Phani Babu Tiruveedhula
- University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, 3210 N Cramer St, Milwaukee, WI 53201, USA
| | - Michael Rajesh Stephen
- University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, 3210 N Cramer St, Milwaukee, WI 53201, USA
| | - James M Cook
- University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, 3210 N Cramer St, Milwaukee, WI 53201, USA
| | - Elise M Weerts
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Division of Behavioral Biology, 5510 Nathan Shock Dr, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Egli M, White DA, Acri JB. Considerations in the Evaluation of Potential Efficacy of Medications for Alcohol and Drug Use Disorders: An Editorial. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF NEUROBIOLOGY 2016; 126:1-14. [PMID: 27055609 DOI: 10.1016/bs.irn.2016.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
The societal burden created by alcohol and drug use disorders is estimated to be on the order of hundreds of billions of dollars, creating a need for effective medications to reduce use and prevent relapse. While there are FDA-approved medications to facilitate abstinence and prevent relapse for some indications including, alcohol, tobacco, and opiate use disorders, there are no approved treatments for other abused substances, including cocaine, methamphetamine, and cannabis, leaving these critical medical needs unmet. The development of such medications has fallen largely to the government with efforts spearheaded by the National Institute on Drug Abuse and the National Institute on Alcoholism and Alcohol Abuse. Both agencies have medication development programs with preclinical components that include the standardized evaluation of compounds using animal models. This chapter describes the rationale and considerations involved in the use of such models, including reinstatement of drug self-administration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M Egli
- National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - D A White
- National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States.
| | - J B Acri
- National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Hwa LS, Shimamoto A, Kayyali T, Norman KJ, Valentino RJ, DeBold JF, Miczek KA. Dissociation of μ-opioid receptor and CRF-R1 antagonist effects on escalated ethanol consumption and mPFC serotonin in C57BL/6J mice. Addict Biol 2016; 21:111-24. [PMID: 25262980 DOI: 10.1111/adb.12189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Both the opioid antagonist naltrexone and corticotropin-releasing factor type-1 receptor (CRF-R1) antagonists have been investigated for the treatment of alcoholism. The current study examines the combination of naltrexone and CP154526 to reduce intermittent access ethanol drinking [intermittent access to alcohol (IAA)] in C57BL/6J male mice, and if these compounds reduce drinking via serotonergic mechanisms in the dorsal raphe nucleus (DRN). Systemic injections and chronic intracerebroventricular infusions of naltrexone, CP154526 or CP376395 transiently decreased IAA drinking. Immunohistochemistry revealed CRF-R1 or μ-opioid receptor immunoreactivity was co-localized in tryptophan hydroxylase (TPH)-immunoreactive neurons as well as non-TPH neurons in the DRN. Mice with a history of IAA or continuous access to alcohol were microinjected with artificial cerebral spinal fluid, naltrexone, CP154526 or the combination into the DRN or the median raphe nucleus (MRN). Either intra-DRN naltrexone or CP154526 reduced IAA in the initial 2 hours of fluid access, but the combination did not additively suppress IAA, suggesting a common mechanism via which these two compounds affect intermittent drinking. These alcohol-reducing effects were localized to the DRN of IAA drinkers, as intra-MRN injections only significantly suppressed water drinking, and continuous access drinkers were not affected by CRF-R1 antagonism. Extracellular serotonin was measured in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) using in vivo microdialysis after intra-DRN microinjections in another group of mice. Intra-DRN CP154526 increased serotonin impulse flow to the mPFC while naltrexone did not. This suggests the mPFC may not be an essential location to intermittent drinking, as evidenced by different effects on serotonin signaling to the forebrain yet similar behavioral findings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lara S. Hwa
- Department of Psychology; Tufts University; Medford MA USA
| | | | - Tala Kayyali
- Department of Psychology; Tufts University; Medford MA USA
| | | | - Rita J. Valentino
- Division of Stress Neurobiology; Children's Hospital of Philadelphia; Philadelphia PA USA
| | | | - Klaus A. Miczek
- Department of Psychology; Tufts University; Medford MA USA
- Department of Neuroscience; Tufts University; Medford MA USA
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Holtyn AF, Kaminski BJ, Wand GS, Weerts EM. Differences in extinction of cue-maintained conditioned responses associated with self-administration: alcohol versus a nonalcoholic reinforcer. Alcohol Clin Exp Res 2014; 38:2639-46. [PMID: 25336025 DOI: 10.1111/acer.12537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2014] [Accepted: 07/30/2014] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Stimuli paired with alcohol may evoke conditioned responses that influence consumption and relapse. Understanding extinction of conditioned responses for both alcohol and nonalcoholic reinforcers, and their relation to subsequent consumption, may be useful in identifying methods to maintain abstinence. METHODS Nine baboons self-administered alcohol (n = 4) or a nonalcoholic reinforcer (orange-flavored Tang(®) , n = 5) under a 3-component chained schedule of reinforcement (CSR). Each component was associated with distinct stimuli and response requirements, which modeled periods of anticipation (Component 1), seeking (Component 2), and consumption (Component 3). No behavioral contingencies were in effect during Component 1. Responses in Component 2, required to gain access to Component 3, provided indices of seeking behavior. Alcohol or Tang® was available only in Component 3. Initial conditions parametrically manipulated the concentration of alcohol (2 to 6% w/v) or Tang (25 to 100%) that was available for self-administration. The breaking point (BP) of alcohol- and Tang-seeking responses at each of the concentrations was determined by adding a progressive ratio schedule to Component 2. Extinction of responding under stimulus conditions identical to those during baseline, but with no access to alcohol or Tang, was examined using across- and within-session extinction procedures. RESULTS The BP for 2% w/v alcohol was lower than that for 4 and 6%, which were closely similar. For Tang, BPs increased as the concentration increased. When concentrations of alcohol and Tang were adjusted to produce comparable BPs, self-administration of Tang was higher when compared to alcohol; however, alcohol-related cues maintained higher BPs than Tang-related cues when only water was available for self-administration. Alcohol seeking and self-administration responses were more resistant to extinction than those for Tang. CONCLUSIONS Stimuli paired with alcohol or nonalcoholic reinforcers will gain different motivational properties. Alcohol-related stimuli produced persistent responding that was highly resistant to change, highlighting the role of environmental stimuli in compulsive drinking and relapse.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- August F Holtyn
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
14
|
Kaminski BJ, Weerts EM. The effects of varenicline on alcohol seeking and self-administration in baboons. Alcohol Clin Exp Res 2014; 38:376-83. [PMID: 24033702 PMCID: PMC3868628 DOI: 10.1111/acer.12233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2013] [Accepted: 06/16/2013] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) may play a critical role in alcohol reinforcement and consumption. The effects of varenicline, an nAChR partial agonist, on alcohol seeking and self-administration responses were evaluated in 2 groups of baboons trained under a 3-component chained schedule of reinforcement (CSR). METHODS Alcohol (4% w/v; n = 4; alcohol group) or a preferred nonalcoholic beverage (n = 4; control group) was available for self-administration only in component 3 of the CSR. Responses in component 2, required to gain access to alcohol, provided indices of seeking behavior. Varenicline (0.032 to 0.32 mg/kg; 0.32 mg/kg twice daily [BID]) and vehicle were administered before CSR sessions subchronically (5 consecutive days). Higher doses (0.56, 1.0 mg/kg) were attempted, but discontinued due to adverse effects. RESULTS Subchronic varenicline administration significantly (p < 0.05) decreased the seeking response rate and increased the time to complete the response requirement to gain access to the daily supply of alcohol at the higher doses (0.32 mg/kg, 0.32 mg/kg BID dosing) in the alcohol group compared with the control group. Mean number of drinks was significantly decreased (p < 0.05), but effects did not differ between groups. The pattern of drinking was characterized by a high rate during an initial bout. Number of drinks during and duration of the initial bout were significantly decreased in the alcohol group, compared with the control group, at 0.32 mg/kg (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Varenicline may be clinically useful for reducing alcohol-seeking behaviors prior to alcohol exposure. Given the modest effects on drinking itself, varenicline may be better suited as a treatment in combination with a pharmacotherapy that significantly reduces alcohol consumption.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Barbara J. Kaminski
- Division of Behavioral Biology, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 5510 Nathan Shock Drive, Baltimore, MD, 21224
| | - Elise M. Weerts
- Division of Behavioral Biology, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 5510 Nathan Shock Drive, Baltimore, MD, 21224
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Abstract
This paper is the thirty-fifth consecutive installment of the annual review of research concerning the endogenous opioid system. It summarizes papers published during 2012 that studied the behavioral effects of molecular, pharmacological and genetic manipulation of opioid peptides, opioid receptors, opioid agonists and opioid antagonists. The particular topics that continue to be covered include the molecular-biochemical effects and neurochemical localization studies of endogenous opioids and their receptors related to behavior (Section 2), and the roles of these opioid peptides and receptors in pain and analgesia (Section 3); stress and social status (Section 4); tolerance and dependence (Section 5); learning and memory (Section 6); eating and drinking (Section 7); alcohol and drugs of abuse (Section 8); sexual activity and hormones, pregnancy, development and endocrinology (Section 9); mental illness and mood (Section 10); seizures and neurologic disorders (Section 11); electrical-related activity and neurophysiology (Section 12); general activity and locomotion (Section 13); gastrointestinal, renal and hepatic functions (Section 14); cardiovascular responses (Section 15); respiration and thermoregulation (Section 16); and immunological responses (Section 17).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Richard J Bodnar
- Department of Psychology and Neuropsychology Doctoral Sub-Program, Queens College, City University of New York, Flushing, NY 11367, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Ethanol self-administration in rats responding under concurrent schedules for milk or ethanol plus milk. Behav Pharmacol 2013; 24:486-95. [PMID: 23903243 DOI: 10.1097/fbp.0b013e328364c006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
The relative reinforcing strength of drugs can be characterized by the distribution of operant behavior during the availability of other reinforcing stimuli. 'Choice' procedures are not widely used in rats, with the exception of ethanol self-administration in which there often is a choice between ethanol and water, which typically does not maintain much responding. A procedure was developed to evaluate the relative reinforcing strength of ethanol in rats when a similar appetitive reinforcer is concurrently available. Rats were trained to respond on two levers under concurrent fixed-ratio schedules of reinforcement with milk (1-50%) or ethanol+milk (4-32% ethanol+5-10% milk). Daily 60-min sessions began with a forced sample of each reinforcer, followed by the concurrent schedules. Under this schedule, rats preferentially allocated their responding to the ethanol-associated lever under conditions of ethanol+5% milk versus 5% milk, but neither preferred nor avoided ethanol when ethanol+10% milk versus 10% milk was available. When 8% ethanol+5% milk was available, 85±6% of responses were directed toward the ethanol-associated lever and the mean ethanol intake was 1.55±0.10 g/kg. The response rate decreased monotonically with the concentration of ethanol. Naltrexone injections did not affect the distribution of responding, but slightly decreased ethanol intake. It is concluded that stable behavior can be maintained under concurrent fixed-ratio schedules of ethanol and milk presentation in rats, resulting in intake of behaviorally active amounts of ethanol.
Collapse
|
17
|
Kaminski BJ, Van Linn ML, Cook JM, Yin W, Weerts EM. Effects of the benzodiazepine GABAA α1-preferring ligand, 3-propoxy-β-carboline hydrochloride (3-PBC), on alcohol seeking and self-administration in baboons. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2013; 227:127-36. [PMID: 23271191 PMCID: PMC3624026 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-012-2946-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2012] [Accepted: 12/01/2012] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE The various α subtypes of GABAA receptors have been strongly implicated in alcohol reinforcement and consumption. OBJECTIVES The effects of the GABAA α1-preferring ligand, 3-propoxy-β-carboline hydrochloride (3-PBC), on seeking and self-administration responses were evaluated in two groups of baboons trained under a 3-component chained schedule of reinforcement (CSR). METHODS Alcohol (4 % w/v; n = 5; alcohol group) or a preferred nonalcoholic beverage (n = 4; control group) was available for self-administration only in component 3 of the CSR. Responses in component 2 provided indices of motivation to drink (seeking). 3-PBC (1.0-30.0 mg/kg) and saline were administered before drinking sessions under both acute and 5-day dosing conditions. RESULTS Repeated, and not acute, doses of 3-PBC significantly decreased total self-administration responses (p < 0.05), volume consumed (p < 0.05), and gram per kilogram of alcohol (p < 0.05) in the alcohol group. In the control group, 5-day administration of 3-PBC significantly decreased total self-administration responses (p < 0.05) but produced nonsignificant decreases in volume consumed. Within-session pattern of drinking was characterized by a high level of drinking in the first 20 min of the session for both groups, which was significantly (p < 0.05) decreased by all doses of 3-PBC (1.0-18.0 mg/kg) only in the alcohol group. In contrast, the first drinking bout in the control group was only reduced at the highest doses of 3-PBC (10.0 and 18.0 mg/kg). CONCLUSIONS The results support the involvement of the GABAA α1 subtype receptor in alcohol reinforcement and consumption.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Barbara J. Kaminski
- Division of Behavioral Biology, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 5510 Nathan Shock Drive, Baltimore, MD, 21224
| | - Michael L. Van Linn
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI 53201
| | - James M. Cook
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI 53201
| | - Wenyuan Yin
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI 53201
| | - Elise M. Weerts
- Division of Behavioral Biology, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 5510 Nathan Shock Drive, Baltimore, MD, 21224
- Corresponding Author: Elise M. Weerts, Ph.D., Johns Hopkins Bayview Campus, Behavioral Biology Research Center, 5510 Nathan Shock Drive, Suite 3000, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA Tel.: 410-550-2781; Fax: 410-550-2780;
| |
Collapse
|