1
|
Morrison FG, Van Orden LJ, Zeitz K, Kuijer EJ, Smith SL, Heal DJ, Wallace TL. Navacaprant, a novel and selective kappa opioid receptor antagonist, has no agonist properties implicated in opioid-related abuse. Neuropharmacology 2024; 257:110037. [PMID: 38876309 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2024.110037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Revised: 06/07/2024] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/16/2024]
Abstract
Kappa opioid receptors (KORs) are implicated in the pathophysiology of various psychiatric and neurological disorders creating interest in targeting the KOR system for therapeutic purposes. Accordingly, navacaprant (NMRA-140) is a potent, selective KOR antagonist being evaluated as a treatment for major depressive disorder. In the present report, we have extended the pharmacological characterization of navacaprant by further demonstrating its selective KOR antagonist properties and confirming its lack of agonist activity at KORs and related targets involved in opioid-related abuse. Using CHO-K1 cells expressing human KOR, mu (MOR), or delta (DOR) opioid receptors, navacaprant demonstrated selective antagonist properties at KOR (IC50 = 0.029 μM) versus MOR (IC50 = 3.3 μM) and DOR (IC50 > 10 μM) in vitro. In vivo, navacaprant (10-30 mg/kg, i.p.) dose-dependently abolished KOR-agonist induced analgesia in the mouse tail-flick assay. Additionally, navacaprant (10, 30 mg/kg, p.o.) significantly reduced KOR agonist-stimulated prolactin release in mice and rats, confirming KOR antagonism in vivo. Navacaprant showed no agonist activity at any opioid receptor subtype (EC50 > 10 μM) in vitro and exhibited no analgesic effect in the tail-flick assays at doses ≤100 mg/kg, p.o. thereby confirming a lack of opioid receptor agonist activity in vivo. Importantly, navacaprant did not alter extracellular dopamine concentrations in the nucleus accumbens shell of freely-moving rats following doses ≤100 mg/kg, p.o., whereas morphine (10, 20 mg/kg, i.p.) significantly increased dopamine levels. These results demonstrate that navacaprant is a KOR-selective antagonist with no pharmacological properties implicated in opioid-related abuse.
Collapse
MESH Headings
- Receptors, Opioid, kappa/agonists
- Receptors, Opioid, kappa/antagonists & inhibitors
- Animals
- CHO Cells
- Cricetulus
- Humans
- Male
- Mice
- Rats
- Analgesics, Opioid/pharmacology
- Cricetinae
- Opioid-Related Disorders/drug therapy
- Narcotic Antagonists/pharmacology
- Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
- Rats, Sprague-Dawley
- Receptors, Opioid, delta/antagonists & inhibitors
- Receptors, Opioid, delta/agonists
- Receptors, Opioid, mu/agonists
- Receptors, Opioid, mu/antagonists & inhibitors
- Nucleus Accumbens/drug effects
- Nucleus Accumbens/metabolism
- Mice, Inbred C57BL
- Dopamine/metabolism
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Karla Zeitz
- Neumora Therapeutics, Inc., 490 Arsenal Way, Watertown, MA, 02472, USA
| | - Eloise J Kuijer
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Bath, Bath, BA2 7AY, UK
| | | | - David J Heal
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Bath, Bath, BA2 7AY, UK; DevelRx Ltd., BioCity, Nottingham, NG1 1GF, UK
| | - Tanya L Wallace
- Neumora Therapeutics, Inc., 490 Arsenal Way, Watertown, MA, 02472, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Wong S, Le GH, Vasudeva S, Teopiz KM, Phan L, Meshkat S, Kwan ATH, Rhee TG, Ho R, Choi H, Cao B, Rosenblat JD, McIntyre RS. Preclinical and clinical efficacy of kappa opioid receptor antagonists for depression: A systematic review. J Affect Disord 2024; 362:816-827. [PMID: 39019223 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2024.07.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2024] [Revised: 06/05/2024] [Accepted: 07/12/2024] [Indexed: 07/19/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Approximately 30 % of persons with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) inadequately respond to conventional antidepressants. Kappa opioid receptor (KOR) antagonists, aticaprant and navacaprant, are in development as treatments for MDD. Herein, we aim to comprehensively evaluate the safety, efficacy and pharmacology of aticaprant and navacaprant for MDD. METHODS We performed a systematic review of primary research investigating aticaprant and navacaprant on PubMed, OVID, and Scopus databases from inception to April 2024. Studies that reported on the pharmacological profile and/or safety and efficacy of aticaprant and navacaprant were included. RESULTS Navacaprant monotherapy and aticaprant adjunctive therapy are in development for MDD. Navacaprant exhibits 300-fold selectivity for the KOR compared to the mu-opioid receptor, while aticaprant exhibits 30-fold selectivity. At clinically-relevant doses, navacaprant and aticaprant occupy 87-95 % and 73-94 % of KORs, respectively. Clinical trials of the foregoing agents (navacaprant as monotherapy and actiprant as adjunctive therapy) reported significant improvement in depressive symptoms and may clinically benefit measures of anhedonia. Both agents appear well-tolerated, with most adverse events mild and no known safety concerns. LIMITATIONS Aticaprant and navacaprant treatment for MDD are in early stages of clinical trials and results from Phase 3 pivotal trials are not yet available. CONCLUSIONS Kappa opioid receptor antagonists may serve as mechanistically-novel treatments for MDD and persons who inadequately respond to index conventional antidepressants. Anhedonia is debilitating and insufficiently treated with conventional antidepressants. Future research vistas should establish the efficacy and safety of KORAs in phase 3 studies in both acute and maintenance paradigms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sabrina Wong
- Mood Disorder and Psychopharmacology Unit, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada; Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada; Brain and Cognition Discovery Foundation, Toronto, Canada.
| | - Gia Han Le
- Mood Disorder and Psychopharmacology Unit, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada; Brain and Cognition Discovery Foundation, Toronto, Canada; Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.
| | - Shreya Vasudeva
- Mood Disorder and Psychopharmacology Unit, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada.
| | - Kayla M Teopiz
- Brain and Cognition Discovery Foundation, Toronto, Canada.
| | - Lee Phan
- Mood Disorder and Psychopharmacology Unit, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada; Brain and Cognition Discovery Foundation, Toronto, Canada.
| | | | - Angela T H Kwan
- Brain and Cognition Discovery Foundation, Toronto, Canada; Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada.
| | - Taeho Greg Rhee
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA; Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, CT, USA.
| | - Roger Ho
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore; Institute for Health Innovation and Technology (iHealthtech), National University of Singapore, Singapore; Division of Life Science (LIFS), Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong.
| | - Hayun Choi
- Brain and Cognition Discovery Foundation, Toronto, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, Veteran Health Service Medical Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
| | - Bing Cao
- Key Laboratory of Cognition and Personality, Faculty of Psychology, Ministry of Education, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, PR China.
| | - Joshua D Rosenblat
- Mood Disorder and Psychopharmacology Unit, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada; Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada; Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.
| | - Roger S McIntyre
- Mood Disorder and Psychopharmacology Unit, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada; Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada; Brain and Cognition Discovery Foundation, Toronto, Canada; Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Namchuk AB, Tsuda MC, Lucki I, Browne CA. Kappa opioid receptor mediated operant performance in male and female rats. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2024; 244:173847. [PMID: 39151827 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2024.173847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2024] [Revised: 08/03/2024] [Accepted: 08/08/2024] [Indexed: 08/19/2024]
Abstract
Anhedonia and avolition are emotions frequently endorsed by individuals with stress related disorders. Kappa opioid receptor (KOR) activation can induce negative emotions and recent clinical evidence suggests that KOR antagonism can alleviate anhedonia in a transdiagnostic cohort of patients. However, the behavioral consequences of KOR activation and antagonism in modulating motivation, as assessed by schedule-controlled behavioral performance without preexisting conditions (stress or substance use), have not been formally assessed. To address this gap in the literature, this report utilized male and female Sprague Dawley rats to (1) evaluate the impact of the selective KOR agonist U50,488, on the performance of animals responding for sucrose pellets under a progressive ratio (PR) schedule and (2) determine the effects of the short-acting KOR antagonist LY2444296 alone and on U50,488 mediated reductions in PR performance. Overall, U50,488 5 mg/kg significantly reduced the breakpoint and number of rewards obtained by animals. This occurred in the absence of motor impairment and independent of evidence for satiation. LY2444296 did not alter PR performance when administered alone but effectively blocked the deficits induced by U50,488. To further delineate the behavioral alterations that underlie these reductions in responding, a more detailed analysis was conducted on PR performance in the first 15 min of the session, the period of time when animals obtained the most reinforcers. During this period, U50,488 increased the length of the post-reinforcement pause and reduced the running rate on PR schedules. These changes in behavior produced by acute activation of KORs are consistent with a reduction of effort-related motivation in rodents. These data contribute to the understanding of how KORs modulate motivation, which is critical to future efforts to evaluate performance in the context of stress and assess how KOR antagonists alleviate anhedonic behaviors associated with stress.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amanda B Namchuk
- Department of Pharmacology & Molecular Therapeutics, Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, MD 20814, United States of America
| | - Mumeko C Tsuda
- Preclinical Behavior & Modelling Core, Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, MD 20814, United States of America
| | - Irwin Lucki
- Department of Pharmacology & Molecular Therapeutics, Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, MD 20814, United States of America; Preclinical Behavior & Modelling Core, Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, MD 20814, United States of America; Department of Psychiatry, Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, MD 20814, United States of America
| | - Caroline A Browne
- Department of Pharmacology & Molecular Therapeutics, Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, MD 20814, United States of America.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Chen J, Mangieri L, Mar S, Piantadosi S, Marcus D, Davis P, Anger B, Land BB, Bruchas MR. Endogenous opioids facilitate stress-induced binge eating via an insular cortex-claustrum pathway. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.06.10.598168. [PMID: 38915527 PMCID: PMC11195079 DOI: 10.1101/2024.06.10.598168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/26/2024]
Abstract
Stress has been shown to promote the development and persistence of binge eating behaviors. However, the neural circuit mechanisms for stress-induced binge-eating behaviors are largely unreported. The endogenous dynorphin (dyn)/kappa opioid receptor (KOR) opioid neuropeptide system has been well established to be a crucial mediator of the anhedonic component of stress. Here, we aimed to dissect the basis of dynorphinergic control of stress-induced binge-like eating behavior. We first established a mouse behavioral model for stress-induced binge-like eating behaviors. We found that mice exposed to stress increased their food intake of familiar palatable food (high fat, high sugar, HPD) compared to non-stressed mice. Following a brain-wide analysis, we isolated robust cFos-positive cells in the Claustrum (CLA), a subcortical structure with highly abundant KOR expression, following stress-induced binge-eating behavior. We report that KOR signaling in CLA is necessary for this elevated stress-induced binge eating behavior using local pharmacology and local deletion of KOR. In vivo calcium recordings using fiber photometry revealed a disinhibition circuit structure in the CLA during the initiation of HPD feeding bouts. We further established the dynamics of endogenous dynorphinergic control of this behavior using a genetically encoded dynorphin biosensor, Klight. Combined with 1-photon single-cell calcium imaging, we report significant heterogeneity with the CLA population during stress-induced binge eating and such behavior attenuates local dynorphin tone. Furthermore, we isolate the anterior Insular cortex (aIC) as the potential source of endogenous dynorphin afferents in the CLA. By characterizing neural circuits and peptidergic mechanisms within the CLA, we uncover a pathway that implicates endogenous opioid regulation stress-induced binge eating.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jingyi Chen
- Center for the Neurobiology of Addiction, Pain and Emotion;Departments of Anesthesiology, Pharmacology, and Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Leandra Mangieri
- Center for the Neurobiology of Addiction, Pain and Emotion;Departments of Anesthesiology, Pharmacology, and Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Sophia Mar
- Center for the Neurobiology of Addiction, Pain and Emotion;Departments of Anesthesiology, Pharmacology, and Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Sean Piantadosi
- Center for the Neurobiology of Addiction, Pain and Emotion;Departments of Anesthesiology, Pharmacology, and Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - David Marcus
- Center for the Neurobiology of Addiction, Pain and Emotion;Departments of Anesthesiology, Pharmacology, and Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Phoenix Davis
- Center for the Neurobiology of Addiction, Pain and Emotion;Departments of Anesthesiology, Pharmacology, and Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Bennett Anger
- Center for the Neurobiology of Addiction, Pain and Emotion;Departments of Anesthesiology, Pharmacology, and Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Benjamin B Land
- Center for the Neurobiology of Addiction, Pain and Emotion;Departments of Anesthesiology, Pharmacology, and Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Michael R Bruchas
- Center for the Neurobiology of Addiction, Pain and Emotion;Departments of Anesthesiology, Pharmacology, and Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Meloni EG, Carlezon WA, Bolshakov VY. Association between social dominance hierarchy and PACAP expression in the extended amygdala, corticosterone, and behavior in C57BL/6 male mice. Sci Rep 2024; 14:8919. [PMID: 38637645 PMCID: PMC11026503 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-59459-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024] Open
Abstract
The natural alignment of animals into social dominance hierarchies produces adaptive, and potentially maladaptive, changes in the brain that influence health and behavior. Aggressive and submissive behaviors assumed by animals through dominance interactions engage stress-dependent neural and hormonal systems that have been shown to correspond with social rank. Here, we examined the association between social dominance hierarchy status established within cages of group-housed mice and the expression of the stress peptide PACAP in the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BNST) and central nucleus of the amygdala (CeA). We also examined the relationship between social dominance rank and blood corticosterone (CORT) levels, body weight, motor coordination (rotorod) and acoustic startle. Male C57BL/6 mice were ranked as either Dominant, Submissive, or Intermediate based on counts of aggressive/submissive encounters assessed at 12 weeks-old following a change in homecage conditions. PACAP expression was significantly higher in the BNST, but not the CeA, of Submissive mice compared to the other groups. CORT levels were lowest in Submissive mice and appeared to reflect a blunted response following events where dominance status is recapitulated. Together, these data reveal changes in specific neural/neuroendocrine systems that are predominant in animals of lowest social dominance rank, and implicate PACAP in brain adaptations that occur through the development of social dominance hierarchies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Edward G Meloni
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School and McLean Hospital, Belmont, MA, 02478, USA.
- McLean Hospital, Mailman Research Center, 115 Mill St., Belmont, MA, 02478, USA.
| | - William A Carlezon
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School and McLean Hospital, Belmont, MA, 02478, USA
| | - Vadim Y Bolshakov
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School and McLean Hospital, Belmont, MA, 02478, USA
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Estave PM, Albertson SE, Karkhanis AN, Jones SR. Co-targeting the kappa opioid receptor and dopamine transporter reduces motivation to self-administer cocaine and partially reverses dopamine system dysregulation. Sci Rep 2024; 14:6509. [PMID: 38499566 PMCID: PMC10948819 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-53463-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Cocaine disrupts dopamine (DA) and kappa opioid receptor (KOR) system activity, with long-term exposure reducing inhibiton of DA uptake by cocaine and increasing KOR system function. Single treatment therapies have not been successful for cocaine use disorder; therefore, this study focuses on a combination therapy targeting the dopamine transporter (DAT) and KOR. Sprague Dawley rats self-administered 5 days of cocaine (1.5 mg/kg/inf, max 40 inf/day, FR1), followed by 14 days on a progressive ratio (PR) schedule (0.19 mg/kg/infusion). Behavioral effects of individual and combined administration of phenmetrazine and nBNI were then examined using PR. Additionally, ex vivo fast scan cyclic voltammetry was then used to assess alterations in DA and KOR system activity in the nucleus accumbens before and after treatments. Chronic administration of phenmetrazine as well as the combination of phenmetrazine and nBNI-but not nBNI alone-significantly reduced PR breakpoints. In addition, the combination of phenmetrazine and nBNI partially reversed cocaine-induced neurodysregulations of the KOR and DA systems, indicating therapeutic benefits of targeting the DA and KOR systems in tandem. These data highlight the potential benefits of the DAT and KOR as dual-cellular targets to reduce motivation to administer cocaine and reverse cocaine-induced alterations of the DA system.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paige M Estave
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Wake University Forest School of Medicine, Medical Center Blvd., Winston-Salem, NC, 27157, USA
| | - Steven E Albertson
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Wake University Forest School of Medicine, Medical Center Blvd., Winston-Salem, NC, 27157, USA
| | - Anushree N Karkhanis
- Department of Psychology, Binghamton University - State University of New York, Binghamton, NY, 13902, USA
| | - Sara R Jones
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Wake University Forest School of Medicine, Medical Center Blvd., Winston-Salem, NC, 27157, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Nisbett KE, Vendruscolo LF, Koob GF. µ-Opioid receptor antagonism facilitates the anxiolytic-like effect of oxytocin in mice. Transl Psychiatry 2024; 14:125. [PMID: 38413576 PMCID: PMC10899625 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-024-02830-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2023] [Revised: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Mood and anxiety disorders are leading causes of disability worldwide and are major contributors to the global burden of diseases. Neuropeptides, such as oxytocin and opioid peptides, are important for emotion regulation. Previous studies have demonstrated that oxytocin reduced depression- and anxiety-like behavior in male and female mice, and opioid receptor activation reduced depression-like behavior. However, it remains unclear whether the endogenous opioid system interacts with the oxytocin system to facilitate emotion regulation in male and female mice. We hypothesized that opioid receptor blockade would inhibit the anxiolytic- and antidepressant-like effects of oxytocin. In this study, we systemically administered naloxone, a preferential μ-opioid receptor antagonist, and then intracerebroventricularly administered oxytocin. We then tested mice on the elevated zero maze and the tail suspension tests, respective tests of anxiety- and depression-like behavior. Contrary to our initial hypothesis, naloxone potentiated the anxiolytic-like, but not the antidepressant-like, effect of oxytocin. Using a selective μ-opioid receptor antagonist, D-Phe-Cys-Tyr-D-Trp-Arg-Thr-Pen-Thr-NH2, and a selective κ-opioid receptor antagonist, norbinaltorphimine, we demonstrate that μ-opioid receptor blockade potentiated the anxiolytic-like effect of oxytocin, whereas κ-opioid receptor blockade inhibited the oxytocin-induced anxiolytic-like effects. The present results suggest that endogenous opioids can regulate the oxytocin system to modulate anxiety-like behavior. Potential clinical implications of these findings are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Khalin E Nisbett
- Graduate Program in Neuroscience, Graduate College, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60607, USA.
- Stress & Addiction Neuroscience Unit, National Institute on Drug Abuse Intramural Research Program and National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism Division of Intramural Clinical and Biological Research, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD, 21224, USA.
- Neurobiology of Addiction Section, Integrative Neuroscience Research Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse Intramural Research Program, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD, 21224, USA.
| | - Leandro F Vendruscolo
- Stress & Addiction Neuroscience Unit, National Institute on Drug Abuse Intramural Research Program and National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism Division of Intramural Clinical and Biological Research, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD, 21224, USA
| | - George F Koob
- Neurobiology of Addiction Section, Integrative Neuroscience Research Branch, National Institute on Drug Abuse Intramural Research Program, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, MD, 21224, USA
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Xu C, Ye J, Sun Y, Sun X, Liu JG. The Antidepressant Effect of Magnolol on Depression-Like Behavior of CORT-Treated Mice. J Mol Neurosci 2024; 74:3. [PMID: 38183534 DOI: 10.1007/s12031-023-02185-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/08/2024]
Abstract
Although the antidepressant-like effect of magnolol has been revealed in previous reports, the mechanism remains unclear. In this study, the antidepressant-like effect of magnolol on corticosterone-induced (CORT-induced) mice was investigated in vivo. After 21 days of CORT induction, the mice showed marked depressive-like behaviors, with a decrease in sucrose preference score and an increase in immobility time in the tail suspension test (TST) and forced swimming test (FST). Pretreatment with either magnolol (50 mg/kg, i.p.) or the kappa opioid receptor (KOR) antagonist nor-BNI (10 mg/kg, i.p.) prevented CORT-induced depression-like behavior and reduced CORT-induced dynorphin (DYN A) elevation in the hippocampal ventral DG. However, no depression-like behavior was observed in mice with KOR downregulation in the ventral DG. We further found that upregulation of DYN A in the DG caused depression-like behavior, which was blocked by intraperitoneal injection of nor-BNI and modulated by magnolol. The present study demonstrated that magnolol could ameliorate CORT-induced depression-like behaviors, by modulating the DYN A/KOR system in the ventral DG of the hippocampus.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chi Xu
- Department of Neurobiology and Acupuncture Research, Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, No.548 Binwen Road Binjiang District, Hangzhou, 310053, Zhejiang, China.
- Key Laboratory of Neuropharmacology and Translational Medicine of Zhejiang Province, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, No.260 Baichuan Road, Fuyang District, Hangzhou, 311400, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Jiayu Ye
- Key Laboratory of Neuropharmacology and Translational Medicine of Zhejiang Province, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, No.260 Baichuan Road, Fuyang District, Hangzhou, 311400, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yanting Sun
- Key Laboratory of Neuropharmacology and Translational Medicine of Zhejiang Province, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, No.260 Baichuan Road, Fuyang District, Hangzhou, 311400, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xiujian Sun
- Key Laboratory of Neuropharmacology and Translational Medicine of Zhejiang Province, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, No.260 Baichuan Road, Fuyang District, Hangzhou, 311400, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jing-Gen Liu
- Department of Neurobiology and Acupuncture Research, Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, No.548 Binwen Road Binjiang District, Hangzhou, 310053, Zhejiang, China.
- Key Laboratory of Neuropharmacology and Translational Medicine of Zhejiang Province, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, No.260 Baichuan Road, Fuyang District, Hangzhou, 311400, Zhejiang, China.
- Key Laboratory of Receptor Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, No.555 Zuchongzhi Road Pudong District, Shanghai, 200120, China.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Jelen LA, Young AH, Mehta MA. Opioid Mechanisms and the Treatment of Depression. Curr Top Behav Neurosci 2024; 66:67-99. [PMID: 37923934 DOI: 10.1007/7854_2023_448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2023]
Abstract
Opioid receptors are widely expressed in the brain, and the opioid system has a key role in modulating mood, reward processing and stress responsivity. There is mounting evidence that the endogenous opioid system may be dysregulated in depression and that drug treatments targeting mu, delta and kappa opioid receptors may show antidepressant potential. The mechanisms underlying the therapeutic effects of opioid system engagement are complex and likely multi-factorial. This chapter explores various pathways through which the modulation of the opioid system may influence depression. These include impacts on monoaminergic systems, the regulation of stress and the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, the immune system and inflammation, brain-derived neurotrophic factors, neurogenesis and neuroplasticity, social pain and social reward, as well as expectancy and placebo effects. A greater understanding of the diverse mechanisms through which opioid system modulation may improve depressive symptoms could ultimately aid in the development of safe and effective alternative treatments for individuals with difficult-to-treat depression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luke A Jelen
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK.
- South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK.
| | - Allan H Young
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
- South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Mitul A Mehta
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Myers AM, Bowen SE, Brummelte S. Maternal care behavior and physiology moderate offspring outcomes following gestational exposure to opioids. Dev Psychobiol 2023; 65:e22433. [PMID: 38010303 DOI: 10.1002/dev.22433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2023] [Revised: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
The opioid epidemic has resulted in a drastic increase in gestational exposure to opioids. Opioid-dependent pregnant women are typically prescribed medications for opioid use disorders ("MOUD"; e.g., buprenorphine [BUP]) to mitigate the harmful effects of abused opioids. However, the consequences of exposure to synthetic opioids, particularly BUP, during gestation on fetal neurodevelopment and long-term outcomes are poorly understood. Further, despite the known adverse effects of opioids on maternal care, many preclinical and clinical studies investigating the effects of gestational opioid exposure on offspring outcomes fail to report on maternal care behaviors. Considering that offspring outcomes are heavily dependent upon the quality of maternal care, it is important to evaluate the effects of gestational opioid exposure in the context of the mother-infant dyad. This review compares offspring outcomes after prenatal opioid exposure and after reduced maternal care and integrates this information to potentially identify common underlying mechanisms. We explore whether adverse outcomes after gestational BUP exposure are due to direct effects of opioids in utero, deficits in maternal care, or a combination of both factors. Finally, suggestions for improving preclinical models of prenatal opioid exposure are provided to promote more translational studies that can help to improve clinical outcomes for opioid-dependent mothers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abigail M Myers
- Department of Psychology, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Scott E Bowen
- Department of Psychology, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan, USA
- Translational Neuroscience Program, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Susanne Brummelte
- Department of Psychology, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan, USA
- Translational Neuroscience Program, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Wang YJ, Zan GY, Xu C, Li XP, Shu X, Yao SY, Xu XS, Qiu X, Chen Y, Jin K, Zhou QX, Ye JY, Wang Y, Xu L, Chen Z, Liu JG. The claustrum-prelimbic cortex circuit through dynorphin/κ-opioid receptor signaling underlies depression-like behaviors associated with social stress etiology. Nat Commun 2023; 14:7903. [PMID: 38036497 PMCID: PMC10689794 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-43636-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Ample evidence has suggested the stress etiology of depression, but the underlying mechanism is not fully understood yet. Here, we report that chronic social defeat stress (CSDS) attenuates the excitatory output of the claustrum (CLA) to the prelimbic cortex (PL) through the dynorphin/κ-opioid receptor (KOR) signaling, being critical for depression-related behaviors in male mice. The CSDS preferentially impairs the excitatory output from the CLA onto the parvalbumin (PV) of the PL, leading to PL micronetwork dysfunction by disinhibiting pyramidal neurons (PNs). Optogenetic activation or inhibition of this circuit suppresses or promotes depressive-like behaviors, which is reversed by chemogenetic inhibition or activation of the PV neurons. Notably, manipulating the dynorphin/KOR signaling in the CLA-PL projecting terminals controls depressive-like behaviors that is suppressed or promoted by optogenetic activation or inhibition of CLA-PL circuit. Thus, this study reveals both mechanism of the stress etiology of depression and possibly therapeutic interventions by targeting CLA-PL circuit.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Jun Wang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research and State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 555 Zuchongzhi Road, Shanghai, 201203, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 19 A Yuquan Road, 100049, Beijing, China
- Shandong Laboratory of Yantai Drug Discovery, Bohai Rim Advanced Research Institute for Drug Discovery, Yantai, 264117, China
| | - Gui-Ying Zan
- CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research and State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 555 Zuchongzhi Road, Shanghai, 201203, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 19 A Yuquan Road, 100049, Beijing, China
| | - Cenglin Xu
- Key Laboratory of Neuropharmacology and Translational Medicine of Zhejiang Province, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xue-Ping Li
- CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research and State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 555 Zuchongzhi Road, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Xuelian Shu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research and State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 555 Zuchongzhi Road, Shanghai, 201203, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 19 A Yuquan Road, 100049, Beijing, China
| | - Song-Yu Yao
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Xiao-Shan Xu
- Laboratory of Learning and Memory, Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Kunming, 650223, China
| | - Xiaoyun Qiu
- Key Laboratory of Neuropharmacology and Translational Medicine of Zhejiang Province, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yexiang Chen
- School of Basic Medicine and Clinical Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
- Department of Neurobiology and Acupuncture Research, The Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurobiology of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310053, China
| | - Kai Jin
- Laboratory of Learning and Memory, Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Kunming, 650223, China
| | - Qi-Xin Zhou
- Laboratory of Learning and Memory, Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Kunming, 650223, China
| | - Jia-Yu Ye
- Key Laboratory of Neuropharmacology and Translational Medicine of Zhejiang Province, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
- Department of Neurobiology and Acupuncture Research, The Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurobiology of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310053, China
| | - Yi Wang
- Key Laboratory of Neuropharmacology and Translational Medicine of Zhejiang Province, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Lin Xu
- Laboratory of Learning and Memory, Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Kunming, 650223, China.
| | - Zhong Chen
- Key Laboratory of Neuropharmacology and Translational Medicine of Zhejiang Province, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China.
| | - Jing-Gen Liu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research and State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 555 Zuchongzhi Road, Shanghai, 201203, China.
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 19 A Yuquan Road, 100049, Beijing, China.
- Key Laboratory of Neuropharmacology and Translational Medicine of Zhejiang Province, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China.
- Department of Neurobiology and Acupuncture Research, The Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurobiology of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310053, China.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Li WW, Wang J, Wu HB, Qiu ZK. Exploring the potential mechanism of Kaixinsan powder for the same pathogenesis of PTSD and anxiety based on network pharmacology and molecular docking: A review. Medicine (Baltimore) 2023; 102:e35869. [PMID: 37986356 PMCID: PMC10659655 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000035869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2023] [Revised: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and anxiety are common mental illnesses and there are many similar pathogenesis and clinical manifestations between PTSD and anxiety. Kaixinsan powder (KXS), a commonly used prescription in traditional Chinese medicine, has been widely used to treat PTSD and anxiety. This study aims to explore the potential mechanisms of KXS for the same pathogenesis of PTSD and anxiety using a network pharmacology approach. METHODS The bioactive components and relevant target genes of KXS were obtained from the database about Traditional Chinese Medicine. The key genes of PTSD and anxiety were derived from disease databases. Subsequently, the network of protein-protein interaction and a network of "drug-components-disease-targets" was constructed. In order to treat PTSD and anxiety, gene ontology enrichment and signaling pathway enrichment were analyzed by using R language and components-core targets associated were validated by molecular docking. RESULTS One hundred three targets of KXS in treating PTSD and anxiety were identified. The results of protein-protein interaction analysis and molecular docking indicated that AKT1 and IL-6 were crucial targets. Moreover, KEGG analysis has shown that neuroactive ligand-receptor interaction, calcium signaling pathway, and cAMP signaling pathway may play crucial roles in treating PTSD and anxiety. Ten biological process, 10 molecular function, and 10 cellular component were revealed via gene ontology analysis. CONCLUSIONS The network pharmacology study and molecular docking indicated that KXS treated anxiety and PTSD by multiple components, targets, and signaling pathways. These results provide an important reference for subsequent basic research on PTSD and anxiety.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Wei Li
- Key Specialty of Clinical Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jia Wang
- Key Specialty of Clinical Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Han-Biao Wu
- Key Specialty of Clinical Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhi-Kun Qiu
- Key Specialty of Clinical Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
McElroy BD, Li C, McCloskey NS, Kirby LG. Sex differences in ethanol consumption and drinking despite negative consequences following adolescent social isolation stress in male and female rats. Physiol Behav 2023; 271:114322. [PMID: 37573960 PMCID: PMC10592127 DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2023.114322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2023] [Revised: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023]
Abstract
Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a debilitating psychiatric disorder characterized by drinking despite negative social and biological consequences. AUDs make up 71% of substance use disorders, with relapse rates as high as 80%. Current treatments stem from data conducted largely in males and fail to target the psychological distress motivating drinking in stress-vulnerable and at-risk populations. Here we employed a rat model and hypothesized that early life stress would reveal sex differences in ethanol intake and drinking despite negative consequences in adulthood. Rats were group housed or isolated postweaning to evaluate sex and stress effects on ethanol consumption in homecage drinking, self-administration (SA), and punished SA (drinking despite negative consequences) in adulthood. Stressed rats showed elevated homecage ethanol intake, an effect more pronounced in females. During SA, males were more sensitive to stress-induced elevations of drinking over time, but females drank more overall. Stressed rats, regardless of sex, responded more for ethanol than their non-stressed counterparts. Stressed females showed greater resistance to punishment-suppressed SA than stressed males, indicating a more stress-resistant drinking phenotype. Results support our hypothesis that adolescent social isolation stress enhances adult ethanol intake in a sex- and model-dependent manner with females being especially sensitive to early life stress-induced elevations in ethanol intake and punished SA in adulthood. Our findings echo the clinical literature which indicates that stress-vulnerable populations are more likely to 'self-medicate' with substances. Elucidating a potential mechanism that underlies why vulnerable populations 'self-medicate' with alcohol can lead towards developing catered pharmacotherapeutics that could reduce punishment-resistant drinking and relapse.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bryan D McElroy
- Center for Substance Abuse Research, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University Philadelphia, PA, 19140, United States of America.
| | - Chen Li
- Center for Substance Abuse Research, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University Philadelphia, PA, 19140, United States of America
| | - Nicholas S McCloskey
- Center for Substance Abuse Research, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University Philadelphia, PA, 19140, United States of America
| | - Lynn G Kirby
- Center for Substance Abuse Research, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University Philadelphia, PA, 19140, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Lind SF, Stam F, Zelleroth S, Meurling E, Frick A, Grönbladh A. Acute caffeine differently affects risk-taking and the expression of BDNF and of adenosine and opioid receptors in rats with high or low anxiety-like behavior. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2023:173573. [PMID: 37302662 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2023.173573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2023] [Revised: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Anxiety disorders are common psychiatric conditions with a partially elucidated neurobiology. Caffeine, an unspecific adenosine receptor antagonist, is a common psychostimulant with anxiogenic effects in sensitive individuals. High doses of caffeine produce anxiety-like behavior in rats but it is not known if this is specific for rats with high baseline anxiety-like behavior. Thus, the aim of this study was to investigate general behavior, risk-taking, and anxiety-like behavior, as well as mRNA expression (adenosine A2A and A1, dopamine D2, and, μ, κ, δ opioid, receptors, BDNF, c-fos, IGF-1) in amygdala, caudate putamen, frontal cortex, hippocampus, hypothalamus, after an acute dose of caffeine. Untreated rats were screened using the elevated plus maze (EPM), giving each rat a score on anxiety-like behavior based on their time spent in the open arms, and categorized into a high or low anxiety-like behavior group accordingly. Three weeks after categorization, the rats were treated with 50 mg/kg caffeine and their behavior profile was studied in the multivariate concentric square field (MCSF) test, and one week later in the EPM. qPCR was performed on selected genes and corticosterone plasma levels were measured using ELISA. The results demonstrated that the high anxiety-like behavior rats treated with caffeine spent less time in risk areas of the MCSF and resituated towards the sheltered areas, a behavior accompanied by lower mRNA expression of adenosine A2A receptors in caudate putamen and increased BDNF expression in hippocampus. These results support the hypothesis that caffeine affects individuals differently depending on their baseline anxiety-like behavior, possibly involving adenosine receptors. This highlights the importance of adenosine receptors as a possible drug target for anxiety disorders, although further research is needed to fully elucidate the neurobiological mechanisms of caffeine on anxiety disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sara Florén Lind
- The Beijer Laboratory, Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, Neuropharmacology and Addiction Research, SE-751 24, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden.
| | - Frida Stam
- The Beijer Laboratory, Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, Neuropharmacology and Addiction Research, SE-751 24, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden.
| | - Sofia Zelleroth
- The Beijer Laboratory, Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, Neuropharmacology and Addiction Research, SE-751 24, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden.
| | - Evelina Meurling
- The Beijer Laboratory, Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, Neuropharmacology and Addiction Research, SE-751 24, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Andreas Frick
- The Beijer Laboratory, Department of Medical Sciences, Psychiatry, SE-751 24, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden.
| | - Alfhild Grönbladh
- The Beijer Laboratory, Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, Neuropharmacology and Addiction Research, SE-751 24, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Arhin M, Mobley J, Hamad H, Remick P. Successful Management of Kratom Use Disorder With Buprenorphine and Naloxone. Cureus 2023; 15:e41146. [PMID: 37519540 PMCID: PMC10386870 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.41146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Kratom is an unregulated herbal supplement that is growing in popularity in the United States. Its primary active ingredients, mitragynine, and 7-hydroxymitragynine, are partial agonists that act on mu- and delta-opioid receptors in the central nervous system, producing analgesia and a sense of euphoria. Kratom use can lead to addiction and adverse side effects, such as seizures, hallucinations, and coma. This case report presents a male in his 40s with a history of kratom use, who presented to the clinic seeking help for his addiction. The patient had been using kratom for several years to self-medicate for his anxiety and depression and gradually developed a kratom addiction. The patient was successfully treated with buprenorphine/naloxone, which helped alleviate his withdrawal symptoms and allowed him to abstain from kratom. This case underscores the growing issue of kratom addiction in the United States and the critical need for physician awareness in treating withdrawal.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Martin Arhin
- School of Medicine, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, USA
| | - Julian Mobley
- School of Medicine, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, USA
| | - Hamad Hamad
- Family Medicine, Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine, Scranton, USA
| | - Paul Remick
- Family Medicine, Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine, Scranton, USA
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Meloni EG, Carlezon WA, Bolshakov VY. Impact of social dominance hierarchy on PACAP expression in the extended amygdala, corticosterone, and behavior in C57BL/6 male mice. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.05.03.539254. [PMID: 37205328 PMCID: PMC10187259 DOI: 10.1101/2023.05.03.539254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
The natural alignment of animals into social dominance hierarchies produces adaptive, and potentially maladaptive, changes in the brain that influence health and behavior. Aggressive and submissive behaviors assumed by animals through dominance interactions engage stress-dependent neural and hormonal systems that have been shown to correspond with social rank. Here, we examined the impact of social dominance hierarchies established within cages of group-housed laboratory mice on expression of the stress peptide pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP) in areas of the extended amygdala comprising the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BNST) and central nucleus of the amygdala (CeA). We also quantified the impact of dominance rank on corticosterone (CORT), body weight, and behavior including rotorod and acoustic startle response. Weight-matched male C57BL/6 mice, group-housed (4/cage) starting at 3 weeks of age, were ranked as either most-dominant (Dominant), least-dominant (Submissive) or in-between rank (Intermediate) based on counts of aggressive and submissive encounters assessed at 12 weeks-old following a change in homecage conditions. We found that PACAP expression was significantly higher in the BNST, but not the CeA, of Submissive mice compared to the other two groups. CORT levels were lowest in Submissive mice and appeared to reflect a blunted response following social dominance interactions. Body weight, motor coordination, and acoustic startle were not significantly different between the groups. Together, these data reveal changes in specific neural/neuroendocrine systems that are predominant in animals of lowest social dominance rank, and implicate PACAP in brain adaptations that occur through the development of social dominance hierarchies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Edward G. Meloni
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School and McLean Hospital, Belmont, MA 02478
| | - William A. Carlezon
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School and McLean Hospital, Belmont, MA 02478
| | - Vadim Y. Bolshakov
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School and McLean Hospital, Belmont, MA 02478
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Farahbakhsh ZZ, Song K, Branthwaite HE, Erickson KR, Mukerjee S, Nolan SO, Siciliano CA. Systemic kappa opioid receptor antagonism accelerates reinforcement learning via augmentation of novelty processing in male mice. Neuropsychopharmacology 2023; 48:857-868. [PMID: 36804487 PMCID: PMC10156709 DOI: 10.1038/s41386-023-01547-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [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: 09/13/2022] [Revised: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/19/2023]
Abstract
Selective inhibition of kappa opioid receptors (KORs) is highly anticipated as a pharmacotherapeutic intervention for substance use disorders and depression. The accepted explanation for KOR antagonist-induced amelioration of aberrant behaviors posits that KORs globally function as a negative valence system; antagonism thereby blunts the behavioral influence of negative internal states such as anhedonia and negative affect. While effects of systemic KOR manipulations have been widely reproduced, explicit evaluation of negative valence as an explanatory construct is lacking. Here, we tested a series of falsifiable hypotheses generated a priori based on the negative valence model by pairing reinforcement learning tasks with systemic pharmacological KOR blockade in male C57BL/6J mice. The negative valence model failed to predict multiple experimental outcomes: KOR blockade accelerated contingency learning during both positive and negative reinforcement without altering innate responses to appetitive or aversive stimuli. We next proposed novelty processing, which influences learning independent of valence, as an alternative explanatory construct. Hypotheses based on novelty processing predicted subsequent observations: KOR blockade increased exploration of a novel, but not habituated, environment and augmented the reinforcing efficacy of novel visual stimuli in a sensory reinforcement task. Together, these results revise and extend long-standing theories of KOR system function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Z Farahbakhsh
- Department of Pharmacology, Vanderbilt Brain Institute, Vanderbilt Center for Addiction Research, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, 37232, USA
| | - Keaton Song
- Department of Pharmacology, Vanderbilt Brain Institute, Vanderbilt Center for Addiction Research, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, 37232, USA
| | - Hannah E Branthwaite
- Department of Pharmacology, Vanderbilt Brain Institute, Vanderbilt Center for Addiction Research, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, 37232, USA
| | - Kirsty R Erickson
- Department of Pharmacology, Vanderbilt Brain Institute, Vanderbilt Center for Addiction Research, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, 37232, USA
| | - Snigdha Mukerjee
- Department of Pharmacology, Vanderbilt Brain Institute, Vanderbilt Center for Addiction Research, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, 37232, USA
| | - Suzanne O Nolan
- Department of Pharmacology, Vanderbilt Brain Institute, Vanderbilt Center for Addiction Research, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, 37232, USA
| | - Cody A Siciliano
- Department of Pharmacology, Vanderbilt Brain Institute, Vanderbilt Center for Addiction Research, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, 37232, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Mancini GF, Meijer OC, Campolongo P. Stress in adolescence as a first hit in stress-related disease development: Timing and context are crucial. Front Neuroendocrinol 2023; 69:101065. [PMID: 37001566 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2023.101065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2022] [Revised: 03/22/2023] [Accepted: 03/25/2023] [Indexed: 04/06/2023]
Abstract
The two-hit stress model predicts that exposure to stress at two different time-points in life may increase or decrease the risk of developing stress-related disorders later in life. Most studies based on the two-hit stress model have investigated early postnatal stress as the first hit with adult stress as the second hit. Adolescence, however, represents another highly sensitive developmental window during which exposure to stressful events may affect programming outcomes following exposure to stress in adulthood. Here, we discuss the programming effects of different types of stressors (social and nonsocial) occurring during adolescence (first hit) and how such stressors affect the responsiveness toward an additional stressor occurring during adulthood (second hit) in rodents. We then provide a comprehensive overview of the potential mechanisms underlying interindividual and sex differences in the resilience/susceptibility to developing stress-related disorders later in life when stress is experienced in two different life stages.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Giulia F Mancini
- Dept. of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Leiden University Medical Center, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Onno C Meijer
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Leiden University Medical Center, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Patrizia Campolongo
- Dept. of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; Neuropsychopharmacology Unit, IRCSS Fondazione Santa Lucia, 00143 Rome, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Wang X, Ge S, Zhang C. Bed nuclei of the stria terminalis: A key hub in the modulation of anxiety. Eur J Neurosci 2023; 57:900-917. [PMID: 36725691 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.15926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2022] [Revised: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
The bed nuclei of the stria terminalis (BST) is recognised as a pivotal integrative centre for monitoring emotional valence. It is implicated in the regulation of diverse affective states and motivated behaviours, and decades of research have firmly established its critical role in anxiety-related behavioural processes. Researchers have recently intricately dissected the BST's dynamic activities, its connection patterns and its functions with respect to specific cell types using multiple techniques such as optogenetics, in vivo calcium imaging and transgenic tools to unmask the complex circuitry mechanisms that underlie anxiety. In this review, we principally focus on studies of anxiety-involved neuromodulators within the BST and provide a comprehensive architecture of the anxiety network-highlighting the BST as a key hub in orchestrating anxiety-like behaviour. We posit that these promising efforts will contribute to the identification of an accurate roadmap for future treatment of anxiety disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xinxin Wang
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Shenglin Ge
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Chengxin Zhang
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Chen Y, Wang CY, Zan GY, Yao SY, Deng YZ, Shu XL, Wu WW, Ma Y, Wang YJ, Yu CX, Liu JG. Upregulation of dynorphin/kappa opioid receptor system in the dorsal hippocampus contributes to morphine withdrawal-induced place aversion. Acta Pharmacol Sin 2023; 44:538-545. [PMID: 36127507 PMCID: PMC9958091 DOI: 10.1038/s41401-022-00987-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Aversive emotion of opioid withdrawal generates motivational state leading to compulsive drug seeking and taking. Kappa opioid receptor (KOR) and its endogenous ligand dynorphin have been shown to participate in the regulation of aversive emotion. In the present study, we investigated the role of dynorphin/KOR system in the aversive emotion following opioid withdrawal in acute morphine-dependent mice. We found that blockade of KORs before pairing by intracerebroventricular injection of KOR antagonist norBNI (20, 40 μg) attenuated the development of morphine withdrawal-induced conditioned place aversion (CPA) behavior. We further found that morphine withdrawal increased dynorphin A expression in the dorsal hippocampus, but not in the amygdala, prefrontal cortex, nucleus accumbens, and thalamus. Microinjection of norBNI (20 μg) into the dorsal hippocampus significantly decreased morphine withdrawal-induced CPA behavior. We further found that p38 MAPK was significantly activated in the dorsal hippocampus after morphine withdrawal, and the activation of p38 MAPK was blocked by pretreatment with norBNI. Accordingly, microinjection of p38 MAPK inhibitor SB203580 (5 μg) into the dorsal hippocampus significantly decreased morphine withdrawal-produced CPA behavior. This study demonstrates that upregulation of dynorphin/KOR system in the dorsal hippocampus plays a critical role in the formation of aversive emotion associated with morphine withdrawal, suggesting that KOR antagonists may have therapeutic value for the treatment of opioid withdrawal-induced mood-related disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yan Chen
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350122, China
| | - Chen-Yao Wang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research and State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 555 Zuchongzhi Road, Shanghai, 201203, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 19 A Yuquan Road, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Gui-Ying Zan
- CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research and State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 555 Zuchongzhi Road, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Song-Yu Yao
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Ying-Zhi Deng
- CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research and State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 555 Zuchongzhi Road, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Xue-Lian Shu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research and State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 555 Zuchongzhi Road, Shanghai, 201203, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 19 A Yuquan Road, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Wei-Wei Wu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research and State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 555 Zuchongzhi Road, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Yan Ma
- CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research and State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 555 Zuchongzhi Road, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Yu-Jun Wang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research and State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 555 Zuchongzhi Road, Shanghai, 201203, China.
| | - Chang-Xi Yu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350122, China.
| | - Jing-Gen Liu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Receptor Research and State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 555 Zuchongzhi Road, Shanghai, 201203, China
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
The Role of Genetics in the Development and Pharmacotherapy of Depression and Its Impact on Drug Discovery. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24032946. [PMID: 36769269 PMCID: PMC9917784 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24032946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Revised: 01/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Complex disorders, such as depression, remain a mystery for scientists. Although genetic factors are considered important for the prediction of one's vulnerability, it is hard to estimate the exact risk for a patient to develop depression, based only on one category of vulnerability criteria. Genetic factors also regulate drug metabolism, and when they are identified in a specific combination, may result in increased drug resistance. A proper understanding of the genetic basis of depression assists in the development of novel promising medications and effective disorder management schemes. This review aims to analyze the recent literature focusing on the correlation between specific genes and the occurrence of depression. Moreover, certain aspects targeting a high drug resistance identified among patients suffering from major depressive disorder were highlighted in this manuscript. An expected direction of future drug discovery campaigns was also discussed.
Collapse
|
22
|
Kibitov AA, Merkulova TV, Mazo GE. [Polymorphisms of OPRM1, OPRK1, DCC genes and non-suicidal self-injuries in adults]. Zh Nevrol Psikhiatr Im S S Korsakova 2023; 123:116-123. [PMID: 38147391 DOI: 10.17116/jnevro2023123121116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the associations of OPRM1 gene rs179971, OPRK1 gene rs6473797 and DCC gene rs8084280 polymorphisms with non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) characteristics and motivations in adults. MATERIAL AND METHODS A pilot sample included 28 adult patients with history of NSSI (89.3% (n=25) women, median age (Q1-Q3) - 23 (21.25-25) years). Most patients (78.6%, n=20) had a diagnosis of bipolar disorder. NSSI characteristics and motivations were assessed using the Inventory of Statements about Self-Injury (ISAS) scale. The Childhood Trauma Questionnaire (CTQ) was used to control for childhood trauma - one of the most important environmental factors associated with NSSI. The Baratt Impulsivity Scale (BIS) and the Buss-Perry Aggression Questionnaire (BPAQ) were also used to assess impulsivity and aggression, respectively. RT-PCR was used for genotyping, a genetic effect was assessed using the dominant model. Mann-Whitney U-test, Pearson χ2-test and multiple linear regression were used for statistical analysis. RESULTS Carriers of the minor G allele of OPRM1 gene rs1779971 had a higher level of aggression assessed by BPAQ (p=0.02). The minor C allele of OPRK1 gene rs6473797 was associated with an increase of the subjective importance of «Affect regulation» (B=2.23; CI 95% [0.39-4.06]; p=0.022) and «Anti-dissociation» (B=3.31; CI 95% [0.18-6.44]; p=0.039) motivations, whereas the minor T allele of DCC gene rs8084280, on the contrary, was associated with a decrease of the importance of «Affect regulation» (B=-1.74; CI 95% [-3.30 - -0.18]; p=0.032). Moreover, this effect was found after adjusting for diagnosis, sex, age, and the presence of childhood trauma. CONCLUSIONS To our knowledge, this is the first study on the association of genetic markers with NSSI motivations. The results of this pilot study demonstrate that OPRK1 and DCC gene polymorphisms can determine differences in motivations for self-harm, however, these results require confirmation in large samples.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A A Kibitov
- Mental Health Research Center, Moscow, Russia
- Bekhterev National Medical Research Center for Psychiatry and Neurology, St-Petersburg, Russia
| | - T V Merkulova
- Serbsky National Medical Research Centre on Psychiatry and Addictions, Moscow, Russia
| | - G E Mazo
- Bekhterev National Medical Research Center for Psychiatry and Neurology, St-Petersburg, Russia
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Yang R, Tuan RRL, Hwang FJ, Bloodgood DW, Kong D, Ding JB. Dichotomous regulation of striatal plasticity by dynorphin. Mol Psychiatry 2023; 28:434-447. [PMID: 36460726 PMCID: PMC10188294 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-022-01885-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2022] [Revised: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 11/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
Modulation of corticostriatal plasticity alters the information flow throughout basal ganglia circuits and represents a fundamental mechanism for motor learning, action selection, and reward. Synaptic plasticity in the striatal direct- and indirect-pathway spiny projection neurons (dSPNs and iSPNs) is regulated by two distinct networks of GPCR signaling cascades. While it is well-known that dopamine D2 and adenosine A2a receptors bi-directionally regulate iSPN plasticity, it remains unclear how D1 signaling modulation of synaptic plasticity is counteracted by dSPN-specific Gi signaling. Here, we show that striatal dynorphin selectively suppresses long-term potentiation (LTP) through Kappa Opioid Receptor (KOR) signaling in dSPNs. Both KOR antagonism and conditional deletion of dynorphin in dSPNs enhance LTP counterbalancing with different levels of D1 receptor activation. Behaviorally, mice lacking dynorphin in D1 neurons show comparable motor behavior and reward-based learning, but enhanced flexibility during reversal learning. These findings support a model in which D1R and KOR signaling bi-directionally modulate synaptic plasticity and behavior in the direct pathway.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Renzhi Yang
- Biology Graduate Program, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Rupa R Lalchandani Tuan
- Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology, UCSF, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Fuu-Jiun Hwang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | | | - Dong Kong
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Pediatrics, F.M. Kirby Neurobiology Center, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jun B Ding
- Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA.
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA.
- Stanford Bio-X, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Grigsby KB, Kerr NR, Kelty TJ, Mao X, Childs TE, Booth FW. Acute Wheel-Running Increases Markers of Stress and Aversion-Related Signaling in the Basolateral Amygdala of Male Rats. J Funct Morphol Kinesiol 2022; 8:jfmk8010006. [PMID: 36648898 PMCID: PMC9844436 DOI: 10.3390/jfmk8010006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2022] [Revised: 12/18/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Physical activity (PA) is a non-invasive, cost-effective means of reducing chronic disease. Most US citizens fail to meet PA guidelines, and individuals experiencing chronic stress are less likely to be physically active. To better understand the barriers to maintaining active lifestyles, we sought to determine the extent to which short- versus long-term PA increases stress- and aversion-related markers in wild-type (WT) and low voluntary running (LVR) rats, a unique genetic model of low physical activity motivation. Here, we tested the effects of 1 and 4 weeks of voluntary wheel-running on physiological, behavioral, and molecular measures of stress and Hypothalamic Pituitary Adrenal (HPA)-axis responsiveness (corticosterone levels, adrenal wet weights, and fecal boli counts). We further determined measures of aversion-related signaling (kappa opioid receptor, dynorphin, and corticotropin releasing hormone mRNA expression) in the basolateral amygdala (BLA), a brain region well characterized for its role in anxiety and aversion. Compared to sedentary values, 1, but not 4 weeks of voluntary wheel-running increased adrenal wet weights and plasma corticosterone levels, suggesting that HPA responsiveness normalizes following long-term PA. BLA mRNA expression of prodynorphin (Pdyn) was significantly elevated in WT and LVR rats following 1 week of wheel-running compared to sedentary levels, suggesting that aversion-related signaling is elevated following short- but not long-term wheel-running. In all, it appears that the stress effects of acute PA may increase molecular markers associated with aversion in the BLA, and that LVR rats may be more sensitive to these effects, providing a potential neural mechanism for their low PA motivation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kolter B. Grigsby
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
- Department of Behavioral Neuroscience, Oregon Health & Science University, and VA Portland Health Care System, Portland, OR 97239, USA
- Correspondence: (K.B.G.); (N.R.K.)
| | - Nathan R. Kerr
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
- Correspondence: (K.B.G.); (N.R.K.)
| | - Taylor J. Kelty
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
| | - Xuansong Mao
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
| | - Thomas E. Childs
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
| | - Frank W. Booth
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
- Department of Nutrition and Exercise Physiology, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
- Department of Physiology, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
- Dalton Cardiovascular Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Pomrenze MB, Cardozo Pinto DF, Neumann PA, Llorach P, Tucciarone JM, Morishita W, Eshel N, Heifets BD, Malenka RC. Modulation of 5-HT release by dynorphin mediates social deficits during opioid withdrawal. Neuron 2022; 110:4125-4143.e6. [PMID: 36202097 PMCID: PMC9789200 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2022.09.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2022] [Revised: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Social isolation during opioid withdrawal is a major contributor to the current opioid addiction crisis. We find that sociability deficits during protracted opioid withdrawal in mice require activation of kappa opioid receptors (KORs) in the nucleus accumbens (NAc) medial shell. Blockade of release from dynorphin (Pdyn)-expressing dorsal raphe neurons (DRPdyn), but not from NAcPdyn neurons, prevents these deficits in prosocial behaviors. Conversely, optogenetic activation of DRPdyn neurons reproduced NAc KOR-dependent decreases in sociability. Deletion of KORs from serotonin (5-HT) neurons, but not from NAc neurons or dopamine (DA) neurons, prevented sociability deficits during withdrawal. Finally, measurements with the genetically encoded GRAB5-HT sensor revealed that during withdrawal KORs block the NAc 5-HT release that normally occurs during social interactions. These results define a neuromodulatory mechanism that is engaged during protracted opioid withdrawal to induce maladaptive deficits in prosocial behaviors, which in humans contribute to relapse.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Matthew B Pomrenze
- Nancy Pritzker Laboratory, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Daniel F Cardozo Pinto
- Nancy Pritzker Laboratory, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Peter A Neumann
- Nancy Pritzker Laboratory, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Pierre Llorach
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Jason M Tucciarone
- Nancy Pritzker Laboratory, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Wade Morishita
- Nancy Pritzker Laboratory, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Neir Eshel
- Nancy Pritzker Laboratory, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Boris D Heifets
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Robert C Malenka
- Nancy Pritzker Laboratory, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Cippitelli A, Zribi G, Toll L. PPL-103: A mixed opioid partial agonist with desirable anti-cocaine properties. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2022; 119:110599. [PMID: 35798174 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2022.110599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [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: 02/28/2022] [Revised: 06/27/2022] [Accepted: 06/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Cocaine use disorder (CUD) is a persistent public health problem for which no effective medications are available. PPL-103 is an opioid receptor ligand with partial agonist activity at mu, kappa and delta opioid receptors, with a greater efficacy for kappa and low efficacy at mu receptors. Because chronic cocaine use induces changes in the kappa opioid receptor/dynorphin system, we hypothesized that a kappa partial agonist, such as PPL-103, would attenuate the aversive properties of the upregulated kappa system, resulting in effective treatment approach for CUD. We tested the effects of PPL-103 on cocaine self-administration models that recapitulate core aspects of CUD in humans. We found that PPL-103 reduced both long and short access cocaine self-administration, motivation to respond for cocaine, and binge-like cocaine taking, in rats. Operant responding for food, fentanyl and locomotor behavior were not altered at doses that decreased cocaine infusions. Repeated PPL-103 treatment did not lead to tolerance development. PPL-103 also reduced both priming- and cue-induced reinstatement of cocaine seeking, being more effective in the former. Surprisingly, PPL-103 reduced self-administration parameters and reinstatement in rats previously treated with the long-acting kappa receptor antagonist JDTic more potently than in non-JDTic treated animals, whereas naltrexone injected to rats subsequent to JDTic administration increased self-administration, suggesting that the partial mu agonist activity, rather than kappa agonism is important for reduction in cocaine taking and seeking. However, partial kappa activation seems to increase safety by limiting dysphoria, tolerance and addiction development. PPL-103 displays a desirable profile as a possible CUD pharmacotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Cippitelli
- Biomedical Science Department, Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL, United States.
| | - Gilles Zribi
- Biomedical Science Department, Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL, United States
| | - Lawrence Toll
- Biomedical Science Department, Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, FL, United States
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Lee SJ, Logsdon AF, Yagi M, Baskin BM, Peskind ER, Raskind MM, Cook DG, Schindler AG. The dynorphin/kappa opioid receptor mediates adverse immunological and behavioral outcomes induced by repetitive blast trauma. J Neuroinflammation 2022; 19:288. [PMID: 36463243 PMCID: PMC9719647 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-022-02643-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Accepted: 11/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adverse pathophysiological and behavioral outcomes related to mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI), posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and chronic pain are common following blast exposure and contribute to decreased quality of life, but underlying mechanisms and prophylactic/treatment options remain limited. The dynorphin/kappa opioid receptor (KOR) system helps regulate behavioral and inflammatory responses to stress and injury; however, it has yet to be investigated as a potential mechanism in either humans or animals exposed to blast. We hypothesized that blast-induced KOR activation mediates adverse outcomes related to inflammation and affective behavioral response. METHODS C57Bl/6 adult male mice were singly or repeatedly exposed to either sham (anesthesia only) or blast delivered by a pneumatic shock tube. The selective KOR antagonist norBNI or vehicle (saline) was administered 72 h prior to repetitive blast or sham exposure. Serum and brain were collected 10 min or 4 h post-exposure for dynorphin A-like immunoreactivity and cytokine measurements, respectively. At 1-month post-exposure, mice were tested in a series of behavioral assays related to adverse outcomes reported by humans with blast trauma. RESULTS Repetitive but not single blast exposure resulted in increased brain dynorphin A-like immunoreactivity. norBNI pretreatment blocked or significantly reduced blast-induced increase in serum and brain cytokines, including IL-6, at 4 h post exposure and aversive/anxiety-like behavioral dysfunction at 1-month post-exposure. CONCLUSIONS Our findings demonstrate a previously unreported role for the dynorphin/KOR system as a mediator of biochemical and behavioral dysfunction following repetitive blast exposure and highlight this system as a potential prophylactic/therapeutic treatment target.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Suhjung Janet Lee
- grid.413919.70000 0004 0420 6540VA Northwest Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center, VA Puget Sound Health Care System, S182, 1660 South Columbian Way, Seattle, WA 98108 USA
| | - Aric F. Logsdon
- grid.413919.70000 0004 0420 6540VA Northwest Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center, VA Puget Sound Health Care System, S182, 1660 South Columbian Way, Seattle, WA 98108 USA ,grid.34477.330000000122986657Department of Medicine, Division of Gerontology and Geriatric Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195 USA
| | - Mayumi Yagi
- grid.413919.70000 0004 0420 6540VA Northwest Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center, VA Puget Sound Health Care System, S182, 1660 South Columbian Way, Seattle, WA 98108 USA
| | - Britahny M. Baskin
- grid.34477.330000000122986657Graduate Program in Neuroscience, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195 USA
| | - Elaine. R. Peskind
- grid.413919.70000 0004 0420 6540VA Northwest Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center, VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, WA 98108 USA ,grid.34477.330000000122986657Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195 USA
| | - Murray M. Raskind
- grid.413919.70000 0004 0420 6540VA Northwest Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center, VA Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, WA 98108 USA ,grid.34477.330000000122986657Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195 USA
| | - David G. Cook
- grid.413919.70000 0004 0420 6540VA Northwest Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center, VA Puget Sound Health Care System, S182, 1660 South Columbian Way, Seattle, WA 98108 USA ,grid.34477.330000000122986657Graduate Program in Neuroscience, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195 USA ,grid.34477.330000000122986657Department of Medicine, Division of Gerontology and Geriatric Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195 USA ,grid.34477.330000000122986657Department of Pharmacology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195 USA
| | - Abigail. G. Schindler
- grid.413919.70000 0004 0420 6540VA Northwest Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center, VA Puget Sound Health Care System, S182, 1660 South Columbian Way, Seattle, WA 98108 USA ,grid.34477.330000000122986657Graduate Program in Neuroscience, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195 USA ,grid.34477.330000000122986657Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195 USA ,grid.34477.330000000122986657Department of Medicine, Division of Gerontology and Geriatric Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195 USA
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Karoussiotis C, Sotiriou A, Polissidis A, Symeonof A, Papavranoussi-Daponte D, Nikoletopoulou V, Georgoussi Z. The κ-opioid receptor-induced autophagy is implicated in stress-driven synaptic alterations. Front Mol Neurosci 2022; 15:1039135. [PMID: 36466809 PMCID: PMC9709411 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2022.1039135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2022] [Accepted: 10/26/2022] [Indexed: 08/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent evidence has shown that G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are direct sensors of the autophagic machinery and opioid receptors regulate neuronal plasticity and neurotransmission with an as yet unclarified mechanism. Using in vitro and in vivo experimental approaches, this study aims to clarify the potential role of autophagy and κ-opioid receptor (κ-OR) signaling in synaptic alterations. We hereby demonstrate that the selective κ-OR agonist U50,488H, induces autophagy in a time-and dose-dependent manner in Neuro-2A cells stably expressing the human κ-OR by upregulating microtubule-associated protein Light Chain 3-II (LC3-II), Beclin 1 and Autophagy Related Gene 5 (ATG5). Pretreatment of neuronal cells with pertussis toxin blocked the above κ-OR-mediated cellular responses. Our molecular analysis also revealed a κ-OR-driven upregulation of becn1 gene through ERK1,2-dependent activation of the transcription factor CREB in Neuro-2A cells. Moreover, our studies demonstrated that sub-chronic U50,488H administration in mice causes profound increases of specific autophagic markers in the hippocampus with a concomitant decrease of several pre-and post-synaptic proteins, such as spinophilin, postsynaptic density protein 95 (PSD-95) and synaptosomal associated protein 25 (SNAP25). Finally, using acute stress, a stimulus known to increase the levels of the endogenous κ-OR ligand dynorphin, we are demonstrating that administration of the κ-ΟR selective antagonist, nor-binaltorphimine (norBNI), blocks the induction of autophagy and the stress-evoked reduction of synaptic proteins in the hippocampus. These findings provide novel insights about the essential role of autophagic machinery into the mechanisms through which κ-OR signaling regulates brain plasticity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christos Karoussiotis
- Laboratory of Cellular Signaling and Molecular Pharmacology, Institute of Biosciences and Applications, National Centre for Scientific Research “Demokritos”, Athens, Greece
| | - Aggeliki Sotiriou
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Foundation for Research and Technology-Hellas, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Alexia Polissidis
- Center for Clinical Research, Experimental Surgery, and Translational Research, Biomedical Research Foundation of the Academy of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Alexandra Symeonof
- Laboratory of Cellular Signaling and Molecular Pharmacology, Institute of Biosciences and Applications, National Centre for Scientific Research “Demokritos”, Athens, Greece
| | - Danae Papavranoussi-Daponte
- Laboratory of Cellular Signaling and Molecular Pharmacology, Institute of Biosciences and Applications, National Centre for Scientific Research “Demokritos”, Athens, Greece
| | | | - Zafiroula Georgoussi
- Laboratory of Cellular Signaling and Molecular Pharmacology, Institute of Biosciences and Applications, National Centre for Scientific Research “Demokritos”, Athens, Greece
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Wallace TL, Martin WJ, Arnsten AF. Kappa opioid receptor antagonism protects working memory performance from mild stress exposure in Rhesus macaques. Neurobiol Stress 2022; 21:100493. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ynstr.2022.100493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2022] [Revised: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
|
30
|
Evaluation of the Intracellular Signaling Activities of κ-Opioid Receptor Agonists, Nalfurafine Analogs; Focusing on the Selectivity of G-Protein- and β-Arrestin-Mediated Pathways. Molecules 2022; 27:molecules27207065. [PMID: 36296658 PMCID: PMC9611050 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27207065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2022] [Revised: 10/15/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Opioid receptors (ORs) are classified into three types (μ, δ, and κ), and opioid analgesics are mainly mediated by μOR activation; however, their use is sometimes restricted by unfavorable effects. The selective κOR agonist nalfurafine was initially developed as an analgesic, but its indication was changed because of the narrow safety margin. The activation of ORs mainly induces two intracellular signaling pathways: a G-protein-mediated pathway and a β-arrestin-mediated pathway. Recently, the expectations for κOR analgesics that selectively activate these pathways have increased; however, the structural properties required for the selectivity of nalfurafine are still unknown. Therefore, we evaluated the partial structures of nalfurafine that are necessary for the selectivity of these two pathways. We assayed the properties of nalfurafine and six nalfurafine analogs (SYKs) using cells stably expressing κORs. The SYKs activated κORs in a concentration-dependent manner with higher EC50 values than nalfurafine. Upon bias factor assessment, only SYK-309 (possessing the 3S-hydroxy group) showed higher selectivity of G-protein-mediated signaling activities than nalfurafine, suggesting the direction of the 3S-hydroxy group may affect the β-arrestin-mediated pathway. In conclusion, nalfurafine analogs having a 3S-hydroxy group, such as SYK-309, could be considered G-protein-biased κOR agonists.
Collapse
|
31
|
McCullough KM, Katrinli S, Hartmann J, Lori A, Klengel C, Missig G, Klengel T, Langford NA, Newman EL, Anderson KJ, Smith AK, Carroll FI, Ressler KJ, Carlezon WA. Blood levels of T-Cell Receptor Excision Circles (TRECs) provide an index of exposure to traumatic stress in mice and humans. Transl Psychiatry 2022; 12:423. [PMID: 36192377 PMCID: PMC9530209 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-022-02159-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2022] [Revised: 09/05/2022] [Accepted: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Exposure to stress triggers biological changes throughout the body. Accumulating evidence indicates that alterations in immune system function are associated with the development of stress-associated illnesses such as major depressive disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder, increasing interest in identifying immune markers that provide insight into mental health. Recombination events during T-cell receptor rearrangement and T-cell maturation in the thymus produce circular DNA fragments called T-cell receptor excision circles (TRECs) that can be utilized as indicators of thymic function and numbers of newly emigrating T-cells. Given data suggesting that stress affects thymus function, we examined whether blood levels of TRECs might serve as a quantitative peripheral index of cumulative stress exposure and its physiological correlates. We hypothesized that chronic stress exposure would compromise thymus function and produce corresponding decreases in levels of TRECs. In male mice, exposure to chronic social defeat stress (CSDS) produced thymic involution, adrenal hypertrophy, and decreased levels of TRECs in blood. Extending these studies to humans revealed robust inverse correlations between levels of circulating TRECs and childhood emotional and physical abuse. Cell-type specific analyses also revealed associations between TREC levels and blood cell composition, as well as cell-type specific methylation changes in CD4T + and CD8T + cells. Additionally, TREC levels correlated with epigenetic age acceleration, a common biomarker of stress exposure. Our findings demonstrate alignment between findings in mice and humans and suggest that blood-borne TRECs are a translationally-relevant biomarker that correlates with, and provides insight into, the cumulative physiological and immune-related impacts of stress exposure in mammals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth M McCullough
- Basic Neuroscience Division, Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, McLean Hospital, Belmont, MA, USA
| | - Seyma Katrinli
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Jakob Hartmann
- Basic Neuroscience Division, Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, McLean Hospital, Belmont, MA, USA
| | - Adriana Lori
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Claudia Klengel
- Basic Neuroscience Division, Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, McLean Hospital, Belmont, MA, USA
| | - Galen Missig
- Basic Neuroscience Division, Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, McLean Hospital, Belmont, MA, USA
| | - Torsten Klengel
- Basic Neuroscience Division, Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, McLean Hospital, Belmont, MA, USA
| | - Nicole A Langford
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Emily L Newman
- Basic Neuroscience Division, Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, McLean Hospital, Belmont, MA, USA
| | - Kasey J Anderson
- Basic Neuroscience Division, Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, McLean Hospital, Belmont, MA, USA
| | - Alicia K Smith
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - F Ivy Carroll
- Center for Organic and Medicinal Chemistry, Research Triangle Institute, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Kerry J Ressler
- Basic Neuroscience Division, Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, McLean Hospital, Belmont, MA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - William A Carlezon
- Basic Neuroscience Division, Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, McLean Hospital, Belmont, MA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Wedemeyer MJ, Jennings EM, Smith HR, Chavera TS, Jamshidi RJ, Berg KA, Clarke WP. 14-3-3γ mediates the long-term inhibition of peripheral kappa opioid receptor antinociceptive signaling by norbinaltorphimine. Neuropharmacology 2022; 220:109251. [PMID: 36126728 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2022.109251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2022] [Revised: 08/16/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Long-term inhibition of kappa opioid receptor (KOR) signaling in peripheral pain-sensing neurons is a potential obstacle for development of peripherally-restricted KOR agonists that produce analgesia. Such a long-term inhibitory mechanism is invoked from activation of c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) that follows a single injection of the KOR antagonist norbinaltorphimine (norBNI). This effect requires protein synthesis of an unknown mediator in peripheral pain-sensing neurons. Using 2D difference gel electrophoresis with tandem mass spectrometry, we have identified that the scaffolding protein 14-3-3γ is upregulated in peripheral sensory neurons following activation of JNK with norBNI. Knockdown of 14-3-3γ by siRNA eliminates the long-term reduction in KOR-mediated cAMP signaling by norBNI in peripheral sensory neurons in culture. Similarly, knockdown of 14-3-3γ in the rat hind paw abolished the norBNI-mediated long-term reduction in peripheral KOR-mediated antinociception. Further, overexpression of 14-3-3γ in KOR expressing CHO cells prevented KOR-mediated inhibition of cAMP signaling. These long-term effects are selective for KOR as heterologous regulation of other receptor systems was not observed. These data suggest that 14-3-3γ is both necessary and sufficient for the long-term inhibition of KOR by norBNI in peripheral sensory neurons.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael J Wedemeyer
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Elaine M Jennings
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Hudson R Smith
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Teresa S Chavera
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Raehannah J Jamshidi
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Kelly A Berg
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - William P Clarke
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Lee YS. Peptidomimetics and Their Applications for Opioid Peptide Drug Discovery. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12091241. [PMID: 36139079 PMCID: PMC9496382 DOI: 10.3390/biom12091241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2022] [Revised: 08/29/2022] [Accepted: 09/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite various advantages, opioid peptides have been limited in their therapeutic uses due to the main drawbacks in metabolic stability, blood-brain barrier permeability, and bioavailability. Therefore, extensive studies have focused on overcoming the problems and optimizing the therapeutic potential. Currently, numerous peptide-based drugs are being marketed thanks to new synthetic strategies for optimizing metabolism and alternative routes of administration. This tutorial review briefly introduces the history and role of natural opioid peptides and highlights the key findings on their structure-activity relationships for the opioid receptors. It discusses details on opioid peptidomimetics applied to develop therapeutic candidates for the treatment of pain from the pharmacological and structural points of view. The main focus is the current status of various mimetic tools and the successful applications summarized in tables and figures.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yeon Sun Lee
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85724, USA
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Bales KL, Rogers FD. Interactions between the
κ
opioid system, corticotropin-releasing hormone and oxytocin in partner loss. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2022; 377:20210061. [PMID: 35858099 PMCID: PMC9272146 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2021.0061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Selective adult social attachments, or ‘pair bonds’, represent central relationships for individuals in a number of social species, including humans. Loss of a pair mate has emotional consequences that may or may not diminish over time, and that often translate into impaired psychological and physical health. In this paper, we review the literature on the neuroendocrine mechanisms for the emotional consequences of partner loss, with a special focus on hypothesized interactions between oxytocin, corticotropin-releasing hormone and the κ opioid system. This article is part of the theme issue ‘Interplays between oxytocin and other neuromodulators in shaping complex social behaviours’.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Karen L. Bales
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA
- Department of Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA
- California National Primate Research Center, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Forrest D. Rogers
- Princeton Neuroscience Institute, Princeton University, NJ 08540, USA
- Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, NJ 08540, USA
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Substance use, microbiome and psychiatric disorders. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2022; 219:173432. [PMID: 35905802 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2022.173432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2021] [Revised: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Accumulating evidence from several studies has shown association between substance use, dysregulation of the microbiome and psychiatric disorders such as depression, anxiety, and psychosis. Many of the abused substances such as cocaine and alcohol have been shown to alter immune signaling pathways and cause inflammation in both the periphery and the central nervous system (CNS). In addition, these substances of abuse also alter the composition and function of the gut microbiome which is known to play important roles such as the synthesis of neurotransmitters and metabolites, that affect the CNS homeostasis and consequent behavioral outcomes. The emerging interactions between substance use, microbiome and CNS neurochemical alterations could contribute to the development of psychiatric disorders. This review provides an overview of the associative effects of substance use such as alcohol, cocaine, methamphetamine, nicotine and opioids on the gut microbiome and psychiatric disorders involving anxiety, depression and psychosis. Understanding the relationship between substance use, microbiome and psychiatric disorders will provide insights for potential therapeutic targets, aimed at mitigating these adverse outcomes.
Collapse
|
36
|
Reeves KC, Shah N, Muñoz B, Atwood BK. Opioid Receptor-Mediated Regulation of Neurotransmission in the Brain. Front Mol Neurosci 2022; 15:919773. [PMID: 35782382 PMCID: PMC9242007 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2022.919773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2022] [Accepted: 05/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Opioids mediate their effects via opioid receptors: mu, delta, and kappa. At the neuronal level, opioid receptors are generally inhibitory, presynaptically reducing neurotransmitter release and postsynaptically hyperpolarizing neurons. However, opioid receptor-mediated regulation of neuronal function and synaptic transmission is not uniform in expression pattern and mechanism across the brain. The localization of receptors within specific cell types and neurocircuits determine the effects that endogenous and exogenous opioids have on brain function. In this review we will explore the similarities and differences in opioid receptor-mediated regulation of neurotransmission across different brain regions. We discuss how future studies can consider potential cell-type, regional, and neural pathway-specific effects of opioid receptors in order to better understand how opioid receptors modulate brain function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kaitlin C. Reeves
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States
- Department of Neuroscience, Charleston Alcohol Research Center, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
| | - Nikhil Shah
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States
- Medical Scientist Training Program, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States
| | - Braulio Muñoz
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States
| | - Brady K. Atwood
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States
- Stark Neurosciences Research Institute, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Haun HL, Lebonville CL, Solomon MG, Griffin WC, Lopez MF, Becker HC. Dynorphin/Kappa Opioid Receptor Activity Within the Extended Amygdala Contributes to Stress-Enhanced Alcohol Drinking in Mice. Biol Psychiatry 2022; 91:1019-1028. [PMID: 35190188 PMCID: PMC9167153 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2022.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Revised: 01/03/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND While there is high comorbidity of stress-related disorders and alcohol use disorder, few effective treatments are available and elucidating underlying neurobiological mechanisms has been hampered by a general lack of reliable animal models. Here, we use a novel mouse model demonstrating robust and reproducible stress-enhanced alcohol drinking to examine the role of dynorphin/kappa opioid receptor (DYN/KOR) activity within the extended amygdala in mediating this stress-alcohol interaction. METHODS Mice received repeated weekly cycles of chronic intermittent ethanol exposure alternating with weekly drinking sessions ± forced swim stress exposure. Pdyn messenger RNA expression was measured in the central amygdala (CeA), and DYN-expressing CeA neurons were then targeted for chemogenetic inhibition. Finally, a KOR antagonist was microinjected into the CeA or bed nucleus of the stria terminalis to examine the role of KOR signaling in promoting stress-enhanced drinking. RESULTS Stress (forced swim stress) selectively increased alcohol drinking in mice with a history of chronic intermittent ethanol exposure, and this was accompanied by elevated Pdyn messenger RNA levels in the CeA. Targeted chemogenetic silencing of DYN-expressing CeA neurons blocked stress-enhanced drinking, and KOR antagonism in the CeA or bed nucleus of the stria terminalis significantly reduced stress-induced elevated alcohol consumption without altering moderate intake in control mice. CONCLUSIONS Using a novel and robust model of stress-enhanced alcohol drinking, a significant role for DYN/KOR activity within extended amygdala circuitry in mediating this effect was demonstrated, thereby providing further evidence that the DYN/KOR system may be a valuable target in the development of more effective treatments for individuals presenting with comorbidity of stress-related disorders and alcohol use disorder.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Harold L Haun
- Charleston Alcohol Research Center, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
| | - Christina L Lebonville
- Charleston Alcohol Research Center, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
| | - Matthew G Solomon
- Charleston Alcohol Research Center, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
| | - William C Griffin
- Charleston Alcohol Research Center, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
| | - Marcelo F Lopez
- Charleston Alcohol Research Center, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina
| | - Howard C Becker
- Charleston Alcohol Research Center, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina; Department of Neuroscience, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina; Ralph H. Johnson Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Charleston, South Carolina.
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Quirion B, Beaulieu C, Côté L, Parent JL, Gendron L. Distribution of delta and mu opioid receptor mRNA in rodent dorsal root ganglia neurons. Eur J Neurosci 2022; 56:4031-4044. [PMID: 35674691 PMCID: PMC9543299 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.15733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2021] [Revised: 05/24/2022] [Accepted: 06/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Primary afferents are responsible for transmitting signals produced by noxious stimuli from the periphery to the spinal cord. Mu and delta opioid receptors (MOP and DOP) have analgesic properties and are highly expressed in dorsal root ganglia (DRG) neurons. In humans, spinal DOP is almost exclusively located on central terminals of DRG neurons, whereas in rodents, it is expressed both on presynaptic terminals and spinal neurons. In this study, we aimed to assess the distribution of MOP and DOP in the DRGs of mice and rats. Using in situ hybridization and immunofluorescence, we visualized MOP and DOP mRNA together with various neuronal markers. In rats and mice, we show that both receptors are expressed, albeit to different extents, in all types of neurons, namely, large and medium myelinated neurons (NF200-positive), small nonpeptidergic (IB4- or P2X3R-positive) and peptidergic C fibres (Tac1-positive). Overall, DOP mRNA was found to be mainly expressed in large and medium myelinated neurons, whereas MOP mRNA was mainly found in C fibres. The distribution of MOP and DOP, however, slightly differs between rats and mice, with a higher proportion of small nonpeptidergic C fibres expressing DOP mRNA in mice than in rats. We further found that neither morphine nor inflammation affected the distribution of the receptor mRNA. Because of their location, our results confirm that MOP and DOP have the potential to alleviate similar types of pain and that this effect could slightly differ between species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Béatrice Quirion
- Département de Pharmacologie-Physiologie, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Québec, Canada.,Institut de Pharmacologie de Sherbrooke, Centre de Recherche du CHUS, Faculté de Médecine et des Sciences de la Santé, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Québec, Canada
| | - Claudie Beaulieu
- Département de Pharmacologie-Physiologie, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Québec, Canada.,Institut de Pharmacologie de Sherbrooke, Centre de Recherche du CHUS, Faculté de Médecine et des Sciences de la Santé, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Québec, Canada
| | - Laurie Côté
- Département de Pharmacologie-Physiologie, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Québec, Canada.,Département de Médecine, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Québec, Canada.,Institut de Pharmacologie de Sherbrooke, Centre de Recherche du CHUS, Faculté de Médecine et des Sciences de la Santé, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Québec, Canada
| | - Jean-Luc Parent
- Département de Médecine, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Québec, Canada.,Institut de Pharmacologie de Sherbrooke, Centre de Recherche du CHUS, Faculté de Médecine et des Sciences de la Santé, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Québec, Canada
| | - Louis Gendron
- Département de Pharmacologie-Physiologie, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Québec, Canada.,Institut de Pharmacologie de Sherbrooke, Centre de Recherche du CHUS, Faculté de Médecine et des Sciences de la Santé, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Québec, Canada.,Quebec Pain Research Network
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Leconte C, Mongeau R, Noble F. Traumatic Stress-Induced Vulnerability to Addiction: Critical Role of the Dynorphin/Kappa Opioid Receptor System. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:856672. [PMID: 35571111 PMCID: PMC9091501 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.856672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2022] [Accepted: 04/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Substance use disorders (SUD) may emerge from an individual’s attempt to limit negative affective states and symptoms linked to stress. Indeed, SUD is highly comorbid with chronic stress, traumatic stress, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and treatments approved for each pathology individually often failed to have a therapeutic efficiency in such comorbid patients. The kappa-opioid receptor (KOR) and its endogenous ligand dynorphin (DYN), seem to play a key role in the occurrence of this comorbidity. The DYN/KOR function is increased either in traumatic stress or during drug use, dependence acquisition and DYN is released during stress. The behavioural effects of stress related to the DYN/KOR system include anxiety, dissociative and depressive symptoms, as well as increased conditioned fear response. Furthermore, the DYN/KOR system is implicated in negative reinforcement after the euphoric effects of a drug of abuse ends. During chronic drug consumption DYN/KOR functions increase and facilitate tolerance and dependence. The drug-seeking behaviour induced by KOR activation can be retrieved either during the development of an addictive behaviour, or during relapse after withdrawal. DYN is known to be one of the most powerful negative modulators of dopamine signalling, notably in brain structures implicated in both reward and fear circuitries. KOR are also acting as inhibitory heteroreceptors on serotonin neurons. Moreover, the DYN/KOR system cross-regulate with corticotropin-releasing factor in the brain. The sexual dimorphism of the DYN/KOR system could be the cause of the gender differences observed in patients with SUD or/and traumatic stress-related pathologies. This review underlies experimental and clinical results emphasizing the DYN/KOR system as common mechanisms shared by SUD or/and traumatic stress-related pathologies, and suggests KOR antagonist as a new pharmacological strategy to treat this comorbidity.
Collapse
|
40
|
Ressler KJ, Berretta S, Bolshakov VY, Rosso IM, Meloni EG, Rauch SL, Carlezon WA. Post-traumatic stress disorder: clinical and translational neuroscience from cells to circuits. Nat Rev Neurol 2022; 18:273-288. [PMID: 35352034 PMCID: PMC9682920 DOI: 10.1038/s41582-022-00635-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 116] [Impact Index Per Article: 58.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/18/2022] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a maladaptive and debilitating psychiatric disorder, characterized by re-experiencing, avoidance, negative emotions and thoughts, and hyperarousal in the months and years following exposure to severe trauma. PTSD has a prevalence of approximately 6-8% in the general population, although this can increase to 25% among groups who have experienced severe psychological trauma, such as combat veterans, refugees and victims of assault. The risk of developing PTSD in the aftermath of severe trauma is determined by multiple factors, including genetics - at least 30-40% of the risk of PTSD is heritable - and past history, for example, prior adult and childhood trauma. Many of the primary symptoms of PTSD, including hyperarousal and sleep dysregulation, are increasingly understood through translational neuroscience. In addition, a large amount of evidence suggests that PTSD can be viewed, at least in part, as a disorder that involves dysregulation of normal fear processes. The neural circuitry underlying fear and threat-related behaviour and learning in mammals, including the amygdala-hippocampus-medial prefrontal cortex circuit, is among the most well-understood in behavioural neuroscience. Furthermore, the study of threat-responding and its underlying circuitry has led to rapid progress in understanding learning and memory processes. By combining molecular-genetic approaches with a translational, mechanistic knowledge of fear circuitry, transformational advances in the conceptual framework, diagnosis and treatment of PTSD are possible. In this Review, we describe the clinical features and current treatments for PTSD, examine the neurobiology of symptom domains, highlight genomic advances and discuss translational approaches to understanding mechanisms and identifying new treatments and interventions for this devastating syndrome.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kerry J Ressler
- SPARED Center, Department of Psychiatry, McLean Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Sabina Berretta
- SPARED Center, Department of Psychiatry, McLean Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Vadim Y Bolshakov
- SPARED Center, Department of Psychiatry, McLean Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Isabelle M Rosso
- SPARED Center, Department of Psychiatry, McLean Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Edward G Meloni
- SPARED Center, Department of Psychiatry, McLean Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Scott L Rauch
- SPARED Center, Department of Psychiatry, McLean Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - William A Carlezon
- SPARED Center, Department of Psychiatry, McLean Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Askari N, Mousavi A, Vaez-Mahdavi MR. Maternal deprivation effect on morphine-induced CPP is related to changes in Opioid receptors in selected rat brain regions (hippocampus, prefrontal cortex, and nucleus accumbens). Behav Processes 2022; 197:104607. [PMID: 35218881 DOI: 10.1016/j.beproc.2022.104607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2021] [Revised: 02/19/2022] [Accepted: 02/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Early-life environmental conditions affect offspring's development. Maternal deprivation (MD) can induce persistent changes that give rise to neuropsychiatric diseases including substance abuse disorders. However, long-lasting mechanisms that determine vulnerability to drug addiction remain unknown. We hypothesized that MD could induce changes in Opioid system, HPA (hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal) axis, and BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor), so may be involved in the drug abuse in later life. Male offspring of Wistar rats (n=8 per group) were subjected to 3h of daily MD during postnatal days 1-14. In adulthood, morphine-induced CPP (conditioned place preference) was investigated using two doses of morphine (3 and 5mg/kg). Serum corticosterone level was measured by ELISA method. The expression level of genes in selected brain regions (hippocampus, prefrontal cortex, and nucleus accumbens) was determined by qPCR (quantitative PCR). A greater morphine-induced CPP was observed in MD rats with 3 and 5mg/kg morphine compared to controls. MD group had a higher corticosterone level. A significant decrease was observed in the expression of BDNF gene (in all of the selected brain regions) and GR (glucocorticoid receptor) gene (in the hippocampus and nucleus accumbens) in MD rats. Also, a significant increase in the expression of μ Opioid receptor (in all of the selected brain regions) and κ Opioid receptor (in the prefrontal cortex and nucleus accumbens) was observed in MD rats. Our results suggest that MD induces alterations in the HPA axis function, BDNF level, and Opioid receptors system that enhance vulnerability to morphine at adulthood.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nayere Askari
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman, Kerman, I.R. Iran; Immunoregulation Research Center, Shahed University, Tehran, I.R. Iran.
| | - Ali Mousavi
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman, Kerman, I.R. Iran
| | | |
Collapse
|
42
|
Elias E, Zhang AY, Manners MT. Novel Pharmacological Approaches to the Treatment of Depression. Life (Basel) 2022; 12:196. [PMID: 35207483 PMCID: PMC8879976 DOI: 10.3390/life12020196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2021] [Revised: 01/19/2022] [Accepted: 01/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Major depressive disorder is one of the most prevalent mental health disorders. Monoamine-based antidepressants were the first drugs developed to treat major depressive disorder. More recently, ketamine and other analogues were introduced as fast-acting antidepressants. Unfortunately, currently available therapeutics are inadequate; lack of efficacy, adverse effects, and risks leave patients with limited treatment options. Efforts are now focused on understanding the etiology of depression and identifying novel targets for pharmacological treatment. In this review, we discuss promising novel pharmacological targets for the treatment of major depressive disorder. Targeting receptors including N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors, G-protein-coupled receptor 39, metabotropic glutamate receptors, galanin and opioid receptors has potential antidepressant effects. Compounds targeting biological processes: inflammation, the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, the cholesterol biosynthesis pathway, and gut microbiota have also shown therapeutic potential. Additionally, natural products including plants, herbs, and fatty acids improved depressive symptoms and behaviors. In this review, a brief history of clinically available antidepressants will be provided, with a primary focus on novel pharmaceutical approaches with promising antidepressant effects in preclinical and clinical studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Melissa T. Manners
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of the Sciences, 600 South 43rd Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; (E.E.); (A.Y.Z.)
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Massaly N, Markovic T, Creed M, Al-Hasani R, Cahill CM, Moron JA. Pain, negative affective states and opioid-based analgesics: Safer pain therapies to dampen addiction. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF NEUROBIOLOGY 2022; 157:31-68. [PMID: 33648672 DOI: 10.1016/bs.irn.2020.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Across centuries and civilizations opioids have been used to relieve pain. In our modern societies, opioid-based analgesics remain one of the most efficient treatments for acute pain. However, the long-term use of opioids can lead to the development of analgesic tolerance, opioid-induced hyperalgesia, opioid use disorders, and overdose, which can ultimately produce respiratory depressant effects with fatal consequences. In addition to the nociceptive sensory component of pain, negative affective states arising from persistent pain represent a risk factor for developing an opioid use disorder. Several studies have indicated that the increase in prescribed opioid analgesics since the 1990s represents the root of our current opioid epidemic. In this review, we will present our current knowledge on the endogenous opioid system within the pain neuroaxis and the plastic changes occurring in this system that may underlie the occurrence of pain-induced negative affect leading to misuse and abuse of opioid medications. Dissecting the allostatic neuronal changes occurring during pain is the most promising avenue to uncover novel targets for the development of safer pain medications. We will discuss this along with current and potential approaches to treat pain-induced negative affective states that lead to drug misuse. Moreover, this chapter will provide a discussion on potential avenues to reduce the abuse potential of new analgesic drugs and highlight a basis for future research and drug development based on recent advances in this field.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas Massaly
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, United States; Washington University in St Louis, Pain Center, St. Louis, MO, United States; Washington University in St Louis, School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States.
| | - Tamara Markovic
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, United States; Washington University in St Louis, Pain Center, St. Louis, MO, United States; Washington University in St Louis, School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Meaghan Creed
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, United States; Washington University in St Louis, Pain Center, St. Louis, MO, United States; Washington University in St Louis, School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States; Department of Neuroscience, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, United States; Department of Psychiatry, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, United States; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Ream Al-Hasani
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, United States; Washington University in St Louis, Pain Center, St. Louis, MO, United States; Washington University in St Louis, School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States; Department of Pharmaceutical and Administrative Sciences, St. Louis College of Pharmacy, St. Louis, MO, United States; Center for Clinical Pharmacology, St. Louis College of Pharmacy and Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Catherine M Cahill
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioural Sciences, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, United States; Shirley and Stefan Hatos Center for Neuropharmacology, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States; Jane & Terry Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Jose A Moron
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, United States; Washington University in St Louis, Pain Center, St. Louis, MO, United States; Washington University in St Louis, School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, United States; Department of Neuroscience, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, United States; Department of Psychiatry, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, United States
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Blockade of kappa opioid receptors reduces mechanical hyperalgesia and anxiety-like behavior in a rat model of trigeminal neuropathic pain. Behav Brain Res 2022; 417:113595. [PMID: 34592375 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2021.113595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2021] [Revised: 09/12/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
It has been shown that kappa opioid receptor (KOR) antagonists, such as nor-binaltorphimine (nor-BNI), have antinociceptive effects in some pain models that affect the trigeminal system. Also, its anxiolytic-like effect has been extensively demonstrated in the literature. The present study aimed to investigate the systemic, local, and central effect of nor-BNI on trigeminal neuropathic pain using the infraorbital nerve constriction model (CCI-ION), as well as to evaluate its effect on anxiety-like behavior associated with this model. Animals received nor-BNI systemically; in the trigeminal ganglion (TG); in the subarachnoid space to target the spinal trigeminal nucleus caudalis (Sp5C) or in the central amygdala (CeA) 14 days after CCI-ION surgery. Systemic administration of nor-BNI caused a significant reduction of facial mechanical hyperalgesia and promoted an anxiolytic-like effect, which was detected in the elevated plus-maze and the light-dark transition tests. When administered in the TG or CeA, the KOR antagonist was able to reduce facial mechanical hyperalgesia induced by CCI-ION, but without changing the anxiety-like behavior. Moreover, no change was observed on nociception and anxiety-like behavior after nor-BNI injection into the Sp5C. The present study demonstrated antinociceptive and anxiolytic-like effects of nor-BNI in a model of trigeminal neuropathic pain. The antinociceptive effect seems to be dissociated from the anxiolytic-like effect, at both the sites involved and at the dose need to achieve the effect. In conclusion, the kappa opioid system may represent a promising target to be explored for the control of trigeminal pain and associated anxiety. However, further studies are necessary to better elucidate its functioning and modulatory role in chronic trigeminal pain states.
Collapse
|
45
|
Grillo L. A Possible Anti-anxiety Effect of Appetitive Aggression and a Possible Link to the Work of Donald Winnicott. Scand J Child Adolesc Psychiatr Psychol 2022; 10:102-113. [PMID: 36133733 PMCID: PMC9454322 DOI: 10.2478/sjcapp-2022-0011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Various pleasant sensations that give a particularly intense pleasure are able to improve anxiety. In the present study I consider the possibility that their anti-anxiety action depends on the strong pleasure they provide, and I propose a possible mechanism of this action. According to some studies, also appetitive aggression (an aggression that provokes a strong pleasure and that is performed only for the pleasure it provides) can improve anxiety, and in this article I consider the possibility that the pleasure of appetitive aggression is able to reduce anxiety by the same mechanism I have proposed for other intense pleasurable sensations. The aggression performed by a child against the mother or against a substitute for the mother in the first period of life (a period in which this aggression is not dangerous) is a recurring theme throughout the work of of Donald Winnicott. Winnicott stresses that this aggression is necessary for the normal development of the child, and that the child must be free to practise it. According to Winnicott, this aggression is highly pleasurable and is not a response to unpleasant or hostile external situations. For these characteristics it seems to correspond to appetitive aggression in the adult that has been found to be able to reduce anxiety. Consequently, aggression performed by the child in the first period of life may also relieve anxiety, in the same way that appetitive aggression helps against anxiety in the adult. In his writings, Winnicott returns several times to an unthinkable or archaic anxiety that children experience when they feel abandoned by their mother for a period that is too long for them, and all children, according to Winnicott, live on the brink of this anxiety. In this study I propose the hypothesis that aggression in the early period of life may be necessary for children because the intense pleasure it provides may help them against this continuously impending anxiety.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luigi Grillo
- San Giorgio su Legnano via Ragazzi del 99Milano MI, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Missig G, Fritsch EL, Mehta N, Damon ME, Jarrell EM, Bartlett AA, Carroll FI, Carlezon WA. Blockade of kappa-opioid receptors amplifies microglia-mediated inflammatory responses. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2022; 212:173301. [PMID: 34826432 PMCID: PMC8748402 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2021.173301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2021] [Revised: 11/11/2021] [Accepted: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Brain kappa-opioid receptors (KORs) are implicated in the pathophysiology of depressive and anxiety disorders, stimulating interest in the therapeutic potential of KOR antagonists. Research on KOR function has tended to focus on KOR-expressing neurons and pathways such as the mesocorticolimbic dopamine system. However, KORs are also expressed on non-neuronal cells including microglia, the resident immune cells in the brain. The effects of KOR antagonists on microglia are not understood despite the potential contributions of these cells to overall responsiveness to this class of drugs. Previous work in vitro suggests that KOR activation suppresses proinflammatory signaling mediated by immune cells including microglia. Here, we examined how KOR antagonism affects microglia function in vivo, together with its effects on physiological and behavioral responses to an immune challenge. Pretreatment with the prototypical KOR antagonist JDTic potentiates levels of proinflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6) in blood following administration of lipopolysaccharide (LPS), an immune-activating agent, without triggering effects on its own. Using magnetic-activated cell sorting (MACs), we found that KOR antagonism potentiates LPS-induced cytokine expression within microglia. This effect is accompanied by potentiation of LPS-induced hyperthermia, although reductions in body weight and locomotion were not affected. Histological analyses confirm that LPS produces visible changes in microglia morphology consistent with activation, but this effect is not altered by KOR antagonism. Considering that inflammation is increasingly implicated in depressive and anxiety disorders, these findings raise the possibility that KOR antagonist actions on microglia may detract from actions on neurons that contribute to their therapeutic potential.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Galen Missig
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, McLean Hospital, Belmont MA, 02478, USA
| | - Emma L. Fritsch
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, McLean Hospital, Belmont MA, 02478, USA
| | - Niyati Mehta
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, McLean Hospital, Belmont MA, 02478, USA
| | - Miles E. Damon
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, McLean Hospital, Belmont MA, 02478, USA
| | - Erica M. Jarrell
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, McLean Hospital, Belmont MA, 02478, USA
| | - Andrew A. Bartlett
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, McLean Hospital, Belmont MA, 02478, USA
| | - F. Ivy Carroll
- Center for Organic and Medicinal Chemistry, Research Triangle Institute, P. O. Box 12194, Research Triangle Park NC, 27709, USA
| | - William A. Carlezon
- Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, McLean Hospital, Belmont MA, 02478, USA
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Fundamentals of the Dynorphins/Kappa Opioid Receptor System: From Distribution to Signaling and Function. Handb Exp Pharmacol 2022; 271:3-21. [PMID: 33754230 PMCID: PMC9013522 DOI: 10.1007/164_2021_433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
This chapter provides a general introduction to the dynorphins (DYNs)/kappa opioid receptor (KOR) system, including DYN peptides, neuroanatomy of the DYNs/KOR system, cellular signaling, and in vivo behavioral effects of KOR activation and inhibition. It is intended to serve as a primer for the book and to provide a basic background for the chapters in the book.
Collapse
|
48
|
Estave PM, Spodnick MB, Karkhanis AN. KOR Control over Addiction Processing: An Exploration of the Mesolimbic Dopamine Pathway. Handb Exp Pharmacol 2022; 271:351-377. [PMID: 33301050 PMCID: PMC8192597 DOI: 10.1007/164_2020_421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Drug addiction is a complex, persistent, and chronically relapsing neurological disorder exacerbated by acute and chronic stress. It is well known that the dynorphin/kappa opioid receptor (KOR) system regulates stress perception and responsivity, while the mesolimbic dopamine system plays a role in reward and reinforcement associated with alcohol and substance use disorders. Interestingly, the dopamine and dynorphin/KOR systems are highly integrated in mesolimbic areas, with KOR activation leading to inhibition of dopamine release, further altering the perception of reinforcing and aversive stimuli. Chronic or repeated exposure to stress or drugs potentiates KOR function ultimately contributing to a hypodopaminergic state. This hypodopaminergic state is one of the hallmarks of hyperkatifeia, defined as the hypersensitivity to emotional distress that is exacerbated during drug withdrawal and abstinence. The relationship between stress and drug addiction is bidirectional; repeated/chronic stress promotes pro-addictive behaviors, and repeated cycles of drug exposure and withdrawal, across various drug classes, produces stress. Neuroadaptations driven by this bidirectional relationship ultimately influence the perception of the reinforcing value of rewarding stimuli. In this chapter, we address the involvement of the dopamine and dynorphin/KOR systems and their interactions in shaping reinforcement value processing after drug and stress exposure, as well as a combinatorial impact of both drugs and stress.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paige M Estave
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - Mary B Spodnick
- Department of Psychology, Developmental Exposure Alcohol Research Center, Center for Developmental and Behavioral Neuroscience, Binghamton University - SUNY, Binghamton, NY, USA
| | - Anushree N Karkhanis
- Department of Psychology, Developmental Exposure Alcohol Research Center, Center for Developmental and Behavioral Neuroscience, Binghamton University - SUNY, Binghamton, NY, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Trofimova IN, Gaykalova AA. Emotionality vs. Other Biobehavioural Traits: A Look at Neurochemical Biomarkers for Their Differentiation. Front Psychol 2021; 12:781631. [PMID: 34987450 PMCID: PMC8720768 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.781631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2021] [Accepted: 12/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
This review highlights the differential contributions of multiple neurochemical systems to temperament traits related and those that are unrelated to emotionality, even though these systems have a significant overlap. The difference in neurochemical biomarkers of these traits is analysed from the perspective of the neurochemical model, Functional Ensemble of Temperament (FET) that uses multi-marker and constructivism principles. Special attention is given to a differential contribution of hypothalamic-pituitary hormones and opioid neuropeptides implicated in both emotional and non-emotional regulation. The review highlights the role of the mu-opioid receptor system in dispositional emotional valence and the role of the kappa-opioid system in dispositional perceptual and behavioural alertness. These opioid receptor (OR) systems, microbiota and cytokines are produced in three neuroanatomically distinct complexes in the brain and the body, which all together integrate dispositional emotionality. In contrast, hormones could be seen as neurochemical biomarkers of non-emotional aspects of behavioural regulation related to the construction of behaviour in fast-changing and current situations. As examples of the role of hormones, the review summarised their contribution to temperament traits of Sensation Seeking (SS) and Empathy (EMP), which FET considers as non-emotionality traits related to behavioural orientation. SS is presented here as based on (higher) testosterone (fluctuating), adrenaline and (low) cortisol systems, and EMP, as based on (higher) oxytocin, reciprocally coupled with vasopressin and (lower) testosterone. Due to the involvement of gonadal hormones, there are sex and age differences in these traits that could be explained by evolutionary theory. There are, therefore, specific neurochemical biomarkers differentiating (OR-based) dispositional emotionality and (hormones-based) body's regulation in fast-changing events. Here we propose to consider dispositional emotionality associated with OR systems as emotionality in a true sense, whereas to consider hormonal ensembles regulating SS and EMP as systems of behavioural orientation and not emotionality.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Irina N. Trofimova
- Laboratory of Collective Intelligence, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | | |
Collapse
|
50
|
Functional Characterization of Spinocerebellar Ataxia Associated Dynorphin A Mutant Peptides. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9121882. [PMID: 34944698 PMCID: PMC8698333 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9121882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2021] [Revised: 12/07/2021] [Accepted: 12/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Mutations in the prodynorphin gene (PDYN) are associated with the development of spinocerebellar ataxia type 23 (SCA23). Pathogenic missense mutations are localized predominantly in the PDYN region coding for the dynorphin A (DynA) neuropeptide and lead to persistently elevated mutant peptide levels with neurotoxic properties. The main DynA target in the central nervous system is the kappa opioid receptor (KOR), a member of the G-protein coupled receptor family, which can elicit signaling cascades mediated by G-protein dissociation as well as β-arrestin recruitment. To date, a thorough analysis of the functional profile for the pathogenic SCA23 DynA mutants at KOR is still missing. To elucidate the role of DynA mutants, we used a combination of assays to investigate the differential activation of G-protein subunits and β-arrestin. In addition, we applied molecular modelling techniques to provide a rationale for the underlying mechanism. Our results demonstrate that DynA mutations, associated with a severe ataxic phenotype, decrease potency of KOR activation, both for G-protein dissociation as well as β-arrestin recruitment. Molecular modelling suggests that this loss of function is due to disruption of critical interactions between DynA and the receptor. In conclusion, this study advances our understanding of KOR signal transduction upon DynA wild type or mutant peptide binding.
Collapse
|