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Jacobs PS, Jee J, Fang L, Devlin E, Iannelli C, Thakuri D, Loughead J, Epperson CN, Wilson N, Roalf D, Reddy R, Nanga RPR. Application of glutamate weighted CEST in brain imaging of nicotine dependent participants in vivo at 7T. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0297310. [PMID: 38363747 PMCID: PMC10871471 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0297310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 02/18/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION With nicotine dependence being a significant healthcare issue worldwide there is a growing interest in developing novel therapies and diagnostic aids to assist in treating nicotine addiction. Glutamate (Glu) plays an important role in cognitive function regulation in a wide range of conditions including traumatic brain injury, aging, and addiction. Chemical exchange saturation transfer (CEST) imaging via ultra-high field MRI can image the exchange of certain saturated labile protons with the surrounding bulk water pool, making the technique a novel tool to investigate glutamate in the context of addiction. The aim of this work was to apply glutamate weighted CEST (GluCEST) imaging to study the dorsal anterior cingulate cortex (dACC) in a small population of smokers and non-smokers to determine its effectiveness as a biomarker of nicotine use. METHODS 2D GluCEST images were acquired on 20 healthy participants: 10 smokers (ages 29-50) and 10 non-smokers (ages 25-69), using a 7T MRI system. T1-weighted images were used to segment the GluCEST images into white and gray matter tissue and further into seven gray matter regions. Wilcoxon rank-sum tests were performed, comparing mean GluCEST contrast between smokers and non-smokers across brain regions. RESULTS GluCEST levels were similar between smokers and non-smokers; however, there was a moderate negative age dependence (R2 = 0.531) in smokers within the cingulate gyrus. CONCLUSION Feasibility of GluCEST imaging was demonstrated for in vivo investigation of smokers and non-smokers to assess glutamate contrast differences as a potential biomarker with a moderate negative age correlation in the cingulate gyrus suggesting reward network involvement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul S. Jacobs
- Center for Advanced Metabolic Imaging in Precision Medicine, Department of Radiology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States of America
| | - Joelle Jee
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States of America
| | - Liu Fang
- Penn Statistics in Imaging and Visualization Center, Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology, and Informatics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States of America
| | - Emily Devlin
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States of America
| | - Claudia Iannelli
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States of America
| | - Deepa Thakuri
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States of America
| | - James Loughead
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States of America
| | - Cynthia Neill Epperson
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States of America
| | - Neil Wilson
- Center for Advanced Metabolic Imaging in Precision Medicine, Department of Radiology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States of America
| | - David Roalf
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States of America
| | - Ravinder Reddy
- Center for Advanced Metabolic Imaging in Precision Medicine, Department of Radiology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States of America
| | - Ravi Prakash Reddy Nanga
- Center for Advanced Metabolic Imaging in Precision Medicine, Department of Radiology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, United States of America
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Yu M, Lin L, Xu K, Xu M, Ren J, Niu X, Gao X, Zhang M, Yang Z, Dang J, Tao Q, Han S, Wang W, Cheng J, Zhang Y. Changes in aspartate metabolism in the medial-prefrontal cortex of nicotine addicts based on J-edited magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Hum Brain Mapp 2023; 44:6429-6438. [PMID: 37909379 PMCID: PMC10681642 DOI: 10.1002/hbm.26519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2023] [Revised: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023] Open
Abstract
This study aims to explore the changes of the aspartate (Asp) level in the medial-prefrontal cortex (mPFC) of subjects with nicotine addiction (nicotine addicts [NAs]) using the J-edited 1 H MR spectroscopy (MRS), which may provide a positive imaging evidence for intervention of NA. From March to August 2022, 45 males aged 40-60 years old were recruited from Henan Province, including 21 in NA and 24 in nonsmoker groups. All subjects underwent routine magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and J-edited MRS scans on a 3.0 T MRI scanner. The Asp level in mPFC was quantified with reference to the total creatine (Asp/Cr) and water (Aspwater-corr , with correction of the brain tissue composition) signals, respectively. Two-tailed independent samples t-test was used to analyze the differences in levels of Asp and other coquantified metabolites (including total N-acetylaspartate [tNAA], total cholinine [tCho], total creatine [tCr], and myo-Inositol [mI]) between the two groups. Finally, the correlations of the Asp level with clinical characteristic assessment scales were performed using the Spearman criteria. Compared with the control group (n = 22), NAs (n = 18) had higher levels of Asp (Asp/Cr: p = .005; Aspwater-corr : p = .004) in the mPFC, and the level of Asp was positively correlated with the daily smoking amount (Asp/Cr: p < .001; Aspwater-corr : p = .004). No significant correlation was found between the level of Asp and the years of nicotine use, Fagerstrom Nicotine Dependence (FTND), Russell Reason for Smoking Questionnaire (RRSQ), or Barratt Impulsivity Scale (BIS-11) score. The elevated Asp level was observed in mPFC of NAs in contrast to nonsmokers, and the Asp level was positively correlated with the amount of daily smoking, which suggests that nicotine addiction may result in elevated Asp metabolism in the human brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miaomiao Yu
- Department of Magnetic Resonance ImagingThe First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou UniversityZhengzhouChina
| | - Liangjie Lin
- Clinical and Technical SupportPhilips HealthcareBeijingChina
| | - Ke Xu
- Department of Magnetic Resonance ImagingThe First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou UniversityZhengzhouChina
| | - Man Xu
- Department of Magnetic Resonance ImagingThe First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou UniversityZhengzhouChina
| | - Jianxin Ren
- Department of Magnetic Resonance ImagingThe First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou UniversityZhengzhouChina
| | - Xiaoyu Niu
- Department of Magnetic Resonance ImagingThe First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou UniversityZhengzhouChina
| | - Xinyu Gao
- Department of Magnetic Resonance ImagingThe First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou UniversityZhengzhouChina
| | - Mengzhe Zhang
- Department of Magnetic Resonance ImagingThe First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou UniversityZhengzhouChina
| | - Zhengui Yang
- Department of Magnetic Resonance ImagingThe First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou UniversityZhengzhouChina
| | - Jinghan Dang
- Department of Magnetic Resonance ImagingThe First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou UniversityZhengzhouChina
| | - Qiuying Tao
- Department of Magnetic Resonance ImagingThe First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou UniversityZhengzhouChina
| | - Shaoqiang Han
- Department of Magnetic Resonance ImagingThe First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou UniversityZhengzhouChina
| | - Weijian Wang
- Department of Magnetic Resonance ImagingThe First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou UniversityZhengzhouChina
| | - Jingliang Cheng
- Department of Magnetic Resonance ImagingThe First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou UniversityZhengzhouChina
| | - Yong Zhang
- Department of Magnetic Resonance ImagingThe First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou UniversityZhengzhouChina
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Steinegger CA, Zoelch N, Hock A, Henning A, Engeli EJ, Seifritz E, Hulka LM, Herdener M. Neurometabolic alterations in the nucleus accumbens of smokers assessed with 1 H magnetic resonance spectroscopy: The role of glutamate and neuroinflammation. Addict Biol 2021; 26:e13027. [PMID: 33825270 DOI: 10.1111/adb.13027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2020] [Revised: 01/13/2021] [Accepted: 02/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Tobacco use is one of the leading causes of premature death and morbidity worldwide. For smokers trying to quit, relapse rates are high, even after prolonged periods of abstinence. Recent findings in animal models highlight the role of alterations in glutamatergic projections from the prefrontal cortex onto the nucleus accumbens (NAc) in relapse vulnerability. Moreover, inflammatory responses in the NAc have been reported during withdrawal. A novel proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1 H-MRS) protocol was applied in humans to measure molar concentrations for glutamate, its sum with glutamine (Glx), and myoinositol plus glycine (mI + Gly) in the NAc (19 smokers, 20 matched controls). Smokers were measured at baseline and during withdrawal and satiation. No difference between groups or smoking states was found for glutamate or Glx, but, in smokers, stronger craving and more severe nicotine dependence were associated with lower baseline glutamate and Glx levels, respectively. Interestingly, mI + Gly concentrations were higher during withdrawal than baseline and correlated negatively with nicotine dependence severity and pack years of smoking. The lack of glutamatergic changes between groups and smoking states may imply that glutamate homeostasis is not significantly altered in smokers or that changes are too small for detection by 1 H-MRS. Moreover, the observed increase in mI + Gly may imply that neuroinflammatory processes occur in the NAc during nicotine withdrawal. These findings shed light on neurobiological relapse mechanisms in smokers and may provide the opportunity to develop more effective treatment options targeting the glutamate and neuroinflammation system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colette A. Steinegger
- Center for Addictive Disorders, Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Psychiatric Hospital University of Zurich Zurich Switzerland
| | - Niklaus Zoelch
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Psychiatric Hospital University of Zurich Zurich Switzerland
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, Department of Forensic Medicine and Imaging University of Zurich Zurich Switzerland
- Institute for Biomedical Engineering University and Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Zurich Zurich Switzerland
| | - Andreas Hock
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Psychiatric Hospital University of Zurich Zurich Switzerland
- Institute for Biomedical Engineering University and Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Zurich Zurich Switzerland
| | - Anke Henning
- Institute for Biomedical Engineering University and Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Zurich Zurich Switzerland
- Zurich Center for Integrative Human Physiology University of Zurich Zurich Switzerland
- Max Planck Institute for Biological Cybernetics Tuebingen Germany
- University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center Dallas Texas US
| | - Etna J.E. Engeli
- Center for Addictive Disorders, Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Psychiatric Hospital University of Zurich Zurich Switzerland
| | - Erich Seifritz
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Psychiatric Hospital University of Zurich Zurich Switzerland
- Zurich Center for Integrative Human Physiology University of Zurich Zurich Switzerland
- Neuroscience Center Zurich University of Zurich and Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Zurich Zurich Switzerland
| | - Lea M. Hulka
- Center for Addictive Disorders, Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Psychiatric Hospital University of Zurich Zurich Switzerland
| | - Marcus Herdener
- Center for Addictive Disorders, Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Psychiatric Hospital University of Zurich Zurich Switzerland
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Durazzo TC, Meyerhoff DJ. GABA concentrations in the anterior cingulate and dorsolateral prefrontal cortices: Associations with chronic cigarette smoking, neurocognition, and decision making. Addict Biol 2021; 26:e12948. [PMID: 33860602 DOI: 10.1111/adb.12948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2019] [Revised: 07/06/2020] [Accepted: 07/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Chronic cigarette smoking is associated with regional metabolite abnormalities in choline-containing compounds, creatine-containing compounds, glutamate, and N-acetylaspartate. The effects of cigarette smoking on anterior frontal cortical gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) concentration are unknown. This study compared chronic smokers (n = 33) and nonsmokers (n = 31) on anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) and right dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) GABA+ (the sum of GABA and coedited macromolecules) concentrations and associations of GABA+ levels in these regions with seven neurocognitive domains of functioning, decision making, and impulsivity measures. Smokers had significantly lower right DLPFC GABA+ concentration than nonsmokers, but groups were equivalent on ACC GABA+ level. Across groups, greater number of days since end of menstrual cycle was related to higher GABA+ level in the ACC but not right DLPFC GABA+ concentration. In exploratory correlation analyses, higher ACC and right DLPFC GABA+ levels were associated with faster processing speed and better auditory-verbal memory, respectively, in the combined group of smokers and nonsmokers; in smokers only, higher ACC GABA+ was related to better decision making and auditory-verbal learning. This study contributes additional novel data on the adverse effects of chronic cigarette smoking on the adult human brain and demonstrated ACC and DLPFC GABA+ concentrations were associated with neurocognition and decision making/impulsivity in active cigarette smokers. Longitudinal studies on the effects of smoking cessation on regional brain GABA levels, with a greater number of female participants, are required to determine if the observed metabolite abnormalities are persistent or normalize with smoking cessation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy C. Durazzo
- Mental Illness Research and Education Clinical Centers VA Palo Alto Health Care System Palo Alto California USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences Stanford University School of Medicine Stanford California USA
| | - Dieter J. Meyerhoff
- Center for Imaging of Neurodegenerative Diseases (CIND) San Francisco VA Medical Center San Francisco California USA
- Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging University of California San Francisco California USA
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Chang L, Liang H, Kandel SR, He JJ. Independent and Combined Effects of Nicotine or Chronic Tobacco Smoking and HIV on the Brain: A Review of Preclinical and Clinical Studies. J Neuroimmune Pharmacol 2020; 15:658-693. [PMID: 33108618 DOI: 10.1007/s11481-020-09963-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2020] [Accepted: 09/25/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Tobacco smoking is highly prevalent among HIV-infected individuals. Chronic smokers with HIV showed greater cognitive deficits and impulsivity, and had more psychopathological symptoms and greater neuroinflammation than HIV non-smokers or smokers without HIV infection. However, preclinical studies that evaluated the combined effects of HIV-infection and tobacco smoking are scare. The preclinical models typically used cell cultures or animal models that involved specific HIV viral proteins or the administration of nicotine to rodents. These preclinical models consistently demonstrated that nicotine had neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects, leading to cognitive enhancement. Although the major addictive ingredient in tobacco smoking is nicotine, chronic smoking does not lead to improved cognitive function in humans. Therefore, preclinical studies designed to unravel the interactive effects of chronic tobacco smoking and HIV infection are needed. In this review, we summarized the preclinical studies that demonstrated the neuroprotective effects of nicotine, the neurotoxic effects of the HIV viral proteins, and the scant literature on nicotine or tobacco smoke in HIV transgenic rat models. We also reviewed the clinical studies that evaluated the neurotoxic effects of tobacco smoking, HIV infection and their combined effects on the brain, including studies that evaluated the cognitive and behavioral assessments, as well as neuroimaging measures. Lastly, we compared the different approaches between preclinical and clinical studies, identified some gaps and proposed some future directions. Graphical abstract Independent and combined effects of HIV and tobacco/nicotine. Left top and bottom panels: Both clinical studies of HIV infected persons and preclinical studies using viral proteins in vitro or in vivo in animal models showed that HIV infection could lead to neurotoxicity and neuroinflammation. Right top and bottom panels: While clinical studies of tobacco smoking consistently showed deleterious effects of smoking, clinical and preclinical studies that used nicotine show mild cognitive enhancement, neuroprotective and possibly anti-inflammatory effects. In the developing brain, however, nicotine is neurotoxic. Middle overlapping panels: Clinical studies of persons with HIV who were smokers typically showed additive deleterious effects of HIV and tobacco smoking. However, in the preclinical studies, when nicotine was administered to the HIV-1 Tg rats, the neurotoxic effects of HIV were attenuated, but tobacco smoke worsened the inflammatory cascade.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda Chang
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, 670 W. Baltimore Street, HSF III, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA.
- Department of Neurology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
- Department of Medicine, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii at Manoa, Honolulu, HI, USA.
| | - Huajun Liang
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, 670 W. Baltimore Street, HSF III, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA
| | - Suresh R Kandel
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Chicago Medical School, Center for Cancer Cell Biology, Immunology and Infection, Rosalind Franklin University, 3333 Green Bay Road, Basic Science Building 2.300, North Chicago, IL, 60064, USA
| | - Johnny J He
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Chicago Medical School, Center for Cancer Cell Biology, Immunology and Infection, Rosalind Franklin University, 3333 Green Bay Road, Basic Science Building 2.300, North Chicago, IL, 60064, USA.
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Short-term nicotine deprivation alters dorsal anterior cingulate glutamate concentration and concomitant cingulate-cortical functional connectivity. Neuropsychopharmacology 2020; 45:1920-1930. [PMID: 32559759 PMCID: PMC7608204 DOI: 10.1038/s41386-020-0741-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2020] [Revised: 05/20/2020] [Accepted: 06/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Most cigarette smokers who wish to quit too often relapse within the first few days of abstinence, primarily due to the aversive aspects of the nicotine withdrawal syndrome (NWS), which remains poorly understood. Considerable research has suggested that the dorsal anterior cingulate cortex (dACC) plays a key role in nicotine dependence, with its functional connections between other brain regions altered as a function of trait addiction and state withdrawal. The flow of information between dACC and fronto-striatal regions is secured through different pathways, the vast majority of which are glutamatergic. As such, we investigated dACC activity using resting state functional connectivity (rsFC) with functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and glutamate (Glu) concentration with magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS). We also investigated the changes in adenosine levels in plasma during withdrawal as a surrogate for brain adenosine, which plays a role in fine-tuning synaptic glutamate transmission. Using a double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized crossover design, nontreatment seeking smoking participants (N = 30) completed two imaging sessions, one while nicotine sated and another after 36 h nicotine abstinence. We observed reduced dACC Glu (P = 0.029) along with a significant reduction in plasma adenosine (P = 0.03) and adenosine monophosphate (AMP; P < 0.0001) concentrations during nicotine withdrawal in comparison with nicotine sated state. This withdrawal state manipulation also led to an increase in rsFC strength (P < 0.05) between dACC and several frontal cortical regions, including left superior frontal gyrus (LSFG), and right middle frontal gyrus (RMFG). Moreover, the state-trait changes in dACC Glu and rsFC strength between the dACC and both SFG and MFG were positively correlated (P = 0.012, and P = 0.007, respectively). Finally, the change in circuit strength between dACC and LSFG was negatively correlated with the change in withdrawal symptom manifestations as measured by the Wisconsin Smoking Withdrawal Scale (P = 0.04) and Tobacco Craving Questionnaire (P = 0.014). These multimodal imaging-behavioral findings reveal the complex cascade of changes induced by acute nicotine deprivation and call for further investigation into the potential utility of adenosine- and glutamate-signaling as novel therapeutic targets to treat the NWS.
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Akkus F, Terbeck S, Haggarty CJ, Treyer V, Dietrich JJ, Hornschuh S, Hasler G. The role of the metabotropic glutamate receptor 5 in nicotine addiction. CNS Spectr 2020; 26:1-6. [PMID: 32713396 DOI: 10.1017/s1092852920001704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
This review summarizes the evidence for the potential involvement of metabotropic glutamate receptor 5 (mGluR5) in the development of nicotine addiction. Nicotine is consumed worldwide and is highly addictive. Previous research has extensively investigated the role of dopamine in association with reward learning and addiction, which has provided strong evidence for the involvement of dopaminergic neuronal circuitry in nicotine addiction. More recently, researchers focused on glutamatergic transmission after nicotine abuse, and its involvement in the reinforcing and rewarding effects of nicotine addiction. A number of robust preclinical and clinical studies have shown mGluR5 signaling as a facilitating mechanism of nicotine addiction and nicotine withdrawal. Specifically, clinical studies have illustrated lower cortical mGluR5 density in smokers compared to nonsmokers in the human brain. In addition, mGluR5 might selectively regulate craving and withdrawal. This suggests that mGluR5 could be a key receptor in the development of nicotine addiction and therefore clinical trials to examine the therapeutic potential of mGluR5 agents could help to contribute to reduce nicotine addiction in society.
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Affiliation(s)
- Funda Akkus
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland
- Psychiatrie St. Gallen Nord, Wil, Switzerland
| | - Sylvia Terbeck
- School of Psychology, Liverpool John Moores University, LiverpoolUnited Kingdom
| | - Connor J Haggarty
- School of Psychology, Liverpool John Moores University, LiverpoolUnited Kingdom
| | - Valerie Treyer
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Janan J Dietrich
- Perinatal HIV Research Unit, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Stefanie Hornschuh
- Perinatal HIV Research Unit, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Gregor Hasler
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland
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McCaul ME, Wand GS, Kuwabara H, Dannals RF, Wong D, Xu X. The Relationship of Varenicline Agonism of α4β2 Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptors and Nicotine-Induced Dopamine Release in Nicotine-Dependent Humans. Nicotine Tob Res 2020; 22:892-899. [PMID: 31096265 PMCID: PMC7529151 DOI: 10.1093/ntr/ntz080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2018] [Accepted: 05/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Cigarette smoking continues to be one of the most important behavioral causes of morbidity and mortality in the world. Varenicline, an α4β2 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) partial agonist, has been shown to increase smoking quit rates compared with nicotine-based products. This human laboratory, double-blind, placebo-controlled study examined varenicline and placebo effects on α4β2-nAChRs occupancy, nicotine-induced change in [11C]raclopride non-displaceable binding potential (BPND), and behavioral measures of cigarette smoking, nicotine craving, and withdrawal. METHODS Current nicotine dependent daily smokers (N = 17) were randomized to varenicline 1 mg twice daily or placebo for 13 days. Using positron emission tomography), we characterized α4β2-nAChRs occupancy using [18F]AZAN and dopamine receptor binding using [11C]raclopride as well as behavioral measures of cigarettes smoked, craving, and nicotine withdrawal. RESULTS Varenicline compared with placebo resulted in significant reductions in [18F]AZAN BPND in multiple brain regions including thalamus, midbrain, putamen, and ventral striatum. Following administration of a controlled-dose nicotine cigarette, dopamine release was significantly suppressed in the ventral striatum in the varenicline-treated compared with the placebo group. There was a significant relationship between α4β2-nAChRs BPND measured in thalamus during the [18F]AZAN scan and nicotine-induced change in raclopride BPND in the ventral striatum. CONCLUSION This is the first human study to demonstrate a direct relationship between the extent of varenicline occupancy of α4β2-nAChRs and the magnitude of dopamine release following nicotine use. IMPLICATIONS It has remained unclear how nicotinic receptor blockade through partial agonist medications such as varenicline promotes smoking cessation. One hypothesized mechanism is downstream dampening of the mesolimbic reward dopamine system. For the first time in human smokers, we observed a direct relationship between the extent of varenicline blockade of α4β2-nACh nicotinic receptors and the magnitude of dopamine release following smoking. This has mechanistic and therapeutic implications for improving smoking cessation interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary E McCaul
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Gary S Wand
- Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Hiroto Kuwabara
- Department of Radiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Robert F Dannals
- Department of Radiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Dean Wong
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
- Department of Radiology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
- Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Xiaoqiang Xu
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
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Xu J, Li H, Wang F, Xu Z, Li G, Ding C, Wu J, Kang Y, Li H, Xu H, Liu Y. Lack of correlation between CSF glutamate levels and PSQI scores in heavy smokers. Sleep Breath 2018; 23:297-302. [PMID: 30088240 DOI: 10.1007/s11325-018-1705-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2018] [Revised: 07/21/2018] [Accepted: 07/31/2018] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Glutamate is an excitatory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system that participates in initiation and maintenance of sleep and wakefulness. The mechanisms involved occur in the brainstem, lateral hypothalamus, and basal forebrain. Our previous study suggested that higher levels of glutamate in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) contributed to poorer sleep quality. Smoking has been shown to be harmful to sleep quality. In the present study, we recruited non-smokers and heavy smokers and measured the concentration of CSF glutamate in order to investigate the associations among smoking status, sleep quality, and CSF glutamate levels. METHODS We recruited 147 men (n = 68 non-smokers, 30.31 ± 9.10 years; n = 79 heavy smokers, 34.54 ± 10.71 years). Glutamate concentrations in CSF were measured by spectrophotometry, and subjective sleep quality was assessed using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). RESULTS PSQI total scores were significantly higher in heavy smokers than that in non-smokers (p < 0.001). Glutamate concentrations in CSF were lower in heavy smokers than that in non-smokers (p < 0.001). CSF glutamate levels positively correlated with PSQI total scores in the non-smokers group (r = 0.313, p = 0.011, effect size = 0.324). No correlation was found between CSF glutamate levels and PSQI total scores in the heavy smokers group (p > 0.05). Multivariable linear regression analysis showed that years of smoking was contributed to the PSQI total scores (p = 0.008), and cigarettes smoked per day contributed to the decreased CSF glutamate levels in heavy smokers (p = 0.001). CONCLUSION Poorer subjective sleep quality and lower CSF glutamate concentrations were observed in the heavy smokers group than in the non-smokers group. In addition, lack of correlation was observed between CSF glutamate levels and PSQI scores in the heavy smokers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinzhong Xu
- The Affiliated Wenling Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenling, 317500, China.,College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, China
| | - Hui Li
- Second Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, 830028, China.,Psychosomatic Medicine Research Division, Inner Mongolia Medical University, Huhhot, 010110, China
| | - Fan Wang
- Second Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, 830028, China.,Beijing Hui-Long-Guan Hospital, Peking University, Beijing, 100096, China
| | - Zeping Xu
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, China
| | - Guohua Li
- Second Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, 830028, China
| | - Cheng Ding
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, China
| | - Junnan Wu
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, China
| | - Yimin Kang
- Psychosomatic Medicine Research Division, Inner Mongolia Medical University, Huhhot, 010110, China
| | - Hong Li
- Department of General Surgery, Ningbo Medical Treatment Center, Li Huili Hospital, Ningbo, 315000, China
| | - Heng Xu
- Second Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, 830028, China. .,The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410011, China.
| | - Yanlong Liu
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, China.
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The impact of acute and short-term methamphetamine abstinence on brain metabolites: A proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy chemical shift imaging study. Drug Alcohol Depend 2018; 185:226-237. [PMID: 29471227 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2017.11.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2017] [Revised: 11/30/2017] [Accepted: 11/30/2017] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Abuse of methamphetamine (MA) is a global health concern. Previous 1H-MRS studies have found that, with methamphetamine abstinence (MAA), there are changes in n-acetyl-aspartate (NAA/Cr), myo-inositol (mI/Cr), choline (Cho/Cr and Cho/NAA), and glutamate with glutamine (Glx) metabolites. Limited studies have investigated the effect of acute MAA, and acute-to-short-term MAA on brain metabolites. METHODS Adults with chronic MA dependence (n = 31) and healthy controls (n = 22) were recruited. Two-dimensional chemical shift 1H-MRS imaging (TR2000 ms, TE30 ms) slice was performed and included voxels in bilateral anterior-cingulate (ACC), frontal-white-matter (FWM), and dorsolateral-prefrontal-cortices (DLPFC). Control participants were scanned once. The MA group was scanned twice, with acute (1.5 ± 0.6 weeks, n = 31) and short-term MAA (5.1 ± 0.8 weeks, n = 22). The change in 1H-MRS metabolites over time (n = 19) was also investigated. Standard 1H-MRS metabolites are reported relative to Cr + PCr. RESULTS Acute MAA showed lower n-acetyl-aspartate (NAA) and n-acetyl-aspartate with n-acetyl-aspartyl-glutamate (NAA + NAAG) in left DLPFC, and glycerophosphocholine with phosphocholine (GPC + PCh) in left FWM. Short-term MAA showed lower NAA + NAAG and higher myo-inositol (mI) in right ACC, lower NAA and NAA + NAAG in the left DLPFC, and lower GPC + PCh in left FWM. Over time, MAA showed decreased NAA and NAA + NAAG and increased mI in right ACC, decreased NAA and NAA + NAAG in right FWM, and decreased in mI in left FWM. CONCLUSION In acute MAA, there was damage to the integrity of neuronal tissue, which was enhanced with short-term MAA. From acute to short-term MAA, activation of neuroinflammatory processes are suggested. This is the first 1H-MRS study to report the development of neuroinflammation with loss of neuronal integrity in MAA.
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11
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Vergara VM, Liu J, Claus ED, Hutchison K, Calhoun V. Alterations of resting state functional network connectivity in the brain of nicotine and alcohol users. Neuroimage 2017; 151:45-54. [PMID: 27864080 PMCID: PMC5420342 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroimage.2016.11.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2015] [Revised: 07/17/2016] [Accepted: 11/08/2016] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Alcohol and nicotine intake result in neurological alterations at the circuit level. Resting state functional connectivity has shown great potential in identifying these alterations. However, current studies focus on specific seeds and leave out many brain regions where effects might exist. The present study uses a data driven technique for brain segmentation covering the whole brain. Functional magnetic-resonance-imaging (fMRI) data were collected from 188 subjects:51 non-substance consumption controls (CTR), 36 smoking-and-drinking subjects (SAD), 28 drinkers (DRN), and 73 smokers (SMK). Data were processed using group independent component analysis to derive resting state networks (RSN). The resting state functional network connectivity (rsFNC) was then calculated through correlation between time courses. One-way ANOVA tests were used to detect rsFNC differences among the four groups. A total of 50 ANOVA tests were significant after multi-comparison correction. Results delineate a general pattern of hypo-connectivity in the substance consumers. Precuneus, postcentral gyrus, insula and visual cortex were the main brain areas with rsFNC reduction suggesting reduced interoceptive awareness in drinkers. In addition, connectivity reduction between postcentral and one RSN covering right fusiform and lingual gyri showed significant association with severity of hazardous drinking. In smokers, connectivity changes agreed with the idea of a shift towards endogenous information processing, represented by the DMN. Hypo-connectivity between thalamus and putamen was observed in smokers. In contrast, the angular gyrus showed hyper-connectivity with the precuneus linked to smoking and significantly correlated with nicotine dependence severity. In spite of the presence of common effects, our results suggest that particular effects of alcohol and nicotine can be separated and identified. Results also suggest that concurrent use of both substances affects brain connectivity in a complex manner, requiring careful consideration of interaction effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victor M Vergara
- The Mind Research Network and Lovelace Biomedical and Environmental Research Institute, 1101 Yale Blvd. NE, Albuquerque, NM 87106, USA.
| | - Jingyu Liu
- The Mind Research Network and Lovelace Biomedical and Environmental Research Institute, 1101 Yale Blvd. NE, Albuquerque, NM 87106, USA
| | - Eric D Claus
- The Mind Research Network and Lovelace Biomedical and Environmental Research Institute, 1101 Yale Blvd. NE, Albuquerque, NM 87106, USA
| | - Kent Hutchison
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO 80302, USA
| | - Vince Calhoun
- The Mind Research Network and Lovelace Biomedical and Environmental Research Institute, 1101 Yale Blvd. NE, Albuquerque, NM 87106, USA
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12
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Durazzo TC, Meyerhoff DJ, Mon A, Abé C, Gazdzinski S, Murray DE. Chronic Cigarette Smoking in Healthy Middle-Aged Individuals Is Associated With Decreased Regional Brain N-acetylaspartate and Glutamate Levels. Biol Psychiatry 2016; 79:481-8. [PMID: 25979621 PMCID: PMC4600002 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2015.03.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2014] [Revised: 03/23/2015] [Accepted: 03/23/2015] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cigarette smoking is associated with metabolite abnormalities in anterior brain regions, but it is unclear if these abnormalities are apparent in other regions. Additionally, relationships between regional brain metabolite levels and measures of decision making, risk taking, and impulsivity in smokers and nonsmokers have not been investigated. METHODS In young to middle-aged (predominately male) nonsmokers (n = 30) and smokers (n = 35), N-acetylaspartate (NAA), choline-containing compounds, creatine-containing compounds (Cr), myo-inositol (mI), and glutamate (Glu) levels in the anterior cingulate cortex and right dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) were compared via 4-tesla proton single volume magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Groups also were compared on NAA, choline-containing compounds, Cr, and mI concentrations in the gray matter and white matter of the four cerebral lobes and subcortical nuclei/regions with 1.5-tesla proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Associations of regional metabolite levels with neurocognitive, decision-making, risk-taking, and self-reported impulsivity measures were examined. RESULTS Smokers showed lower DLPFC NAA, Cr, mI and Glu concentrations and lower lenticular nuclei NAA level; smokers also demonstrated greater age-related decreases of DLPFC NAA and anterior cingulate cortex and DLPFC Glu levels. Smokers exhibited poorer decision making and greater impulsivity. Across the sample, higher NAA and Glu in the DLPFC and NAA concentrations in multiple lobar gray matter and white matter regions and subcortical nuclei were associated with better neurocognition and lower impulsivity. CONCLUSIONS This study provides additional novel evidence that chronic smoking in young and middle-aged individuals is associated with significant age-related neurobiological abnormalities in anterior frontal regions implicated in the development and maintenance of addictive disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy C. Durazzo
- Center for Imaging of Neurodegenerative Diseases (CIND), San Francisco VA Medical Center, San Francisco, CA, USA,Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA,Please address correspondence to: Timothy C. Durazzo, PhD, Center for Imaging of Neurodegenerative Diseases (114M), San Francisco VA Medical Center, 4150 Clement Street (114M), San Francisco, CA 94121, USA, Office: 415-221-4810 x4157, Fax: 415-668-2864, ;
| | - Dieter J. Meyerhoff
- Center for Imaging of Neurodegenerative Diseases (CIND), San Francisco VA Medical Center, San Francisco, CA, USA,Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Anderson Mon
- Center for Imaging of Neurodegenerative Diseases (CIND), San Francisco VA Medical Center, San Francisco, CA, USA,Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Christoph Abé
- Center for Imaging of Neurodegenerative Diseases (CIND), San Francisco VA Medical Center, San Francisco, CA, USA,Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Stefan Gazdzinski
- Center for Imaging of Neurodegenerative Diseases (CIND), San Francisco VA Medical Center, San Francisco, CA, USA,Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Donna E. Murray
- Center for Imaging of Neurodegenerative Diseases (CIND), San Francisco VA Medical Center, San Francisco, CA, USA,Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
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13
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Zhang XY, Tan YL, Chen DC, Tan SP, Yang FD, Zunta-Soares GB, Soares JC. Effects of cigarette smoking and alcohol use on neurocognition and BDNF levels in a Chinese population. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2016; 233:435-45. [PMID: 26518023 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-015-4124-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2015] [Accepted: 10/13/2015] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Few studies have examined the potential interactive effect of both smoking and drinking on cognition. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) plays a critical role in cognition. This is the first study to examine the neurocognitive consequences of cigarette smoking combined with chronic alcohol consumption and their relationship to serum BDNF levels in a Chinese Han population. MATERIALS AND METHODS We recruited 191 healthy male subjects, including 47 isolated smokers, 31 isolated chronic alcohol users, 58 combined smokers and chronic alcohol users, and 55 non-smokers and non-alcohol users. We then compared the repeatable battery for the assessment of neuropsychological status (RBANS) scores and serum BDNF levels in these four groups. RESULTS When compared to the non-smoking + non-alcohol-using group, the smoking group performed worse on immediate memory, attention, language, and RBANS total score. There were no significant differences in the RBANS scores between the alcohol-using group and non-smoking + non-alcohol-using group, or between the smoking group and smoking + alcohol-using group. We did not find an association between BDNF and smoking or drinking status or between BDNF and cognitive performance. In the smoking group, there was a significant correlation between BDNF and carbon monoxide concentration, and between BDNF and the Fagerstrom Test for Nicotine Dependence (FTND) total score. CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest that smoking is associated with cognitive decline, but not with BDNF levels in a normal population. However, smoking severity is positively associated with BDNF levels. Concomitant alcohol use does not worsen the cognitive decline caused by smoking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Yang Zhang
- Beijing HuiLongGuan Hospital, Peking University, Beijing, China.
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA.
- UT Center of Excellence on Mood Disorders (UTCEMD), Biomedical and Behavioral Sciences Building, 1941 East Road, Houston, TX, 77054, USA.
| | - Yun-Long Tan
- Beijing HuiLongGuan Hospital, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Da-Chun Chen
- Beijing HuiLongGuan Hospital, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Shu-Ping Tan
- Beijing HuiLongGuan Hospital, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Fu-De Yang
- Beijing HuiLongGuan Hospital, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Giovana B Zunta-Soares
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Jair C Soares
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
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14
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Moeller SJ, London ED, Northoff G. Neuroimaging markers of glutamatergic and GABAergic systems in drug addiction: Relationships to resting-state functional connectivity. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2016; 61:35-52. [PMID: 26657968 PMCID: PMC4731270 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2015.11.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2015] [Revised: 11/05/2015] [Accepted: 11/21/2015] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Drug addiction is characterized by widespread abnormalities in brain function and neurochemistry, including drug-associated effects on concentrations of the excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmitters glutamate and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), respectively. In healthy individuals, these neurotransmitters drive the resting state, a default condition of brain function also disrupted in addiction. Here, our primary goal was to review in vivo magnetic resonance spectroscopy and positron emission tomography studies that examined markers of glutamate and GABA abnormalities in human drug addiction. Addicted individuals tended to show decreases in these markers compared with healthy controls, but findings also varied by individual characteristics (e.g., abstinence length). Interestingly, select corticolimbic brain regions showing glutamatergic and/or GABAergic abnormalities have been similarly implicated in resting-state functional connectivity deficits in drug addiction. Thus, our secondary goals were to provide a brief review of this resting-state literature, and an initial rationale for the hypothesis that abnormalities in glutamatergic and/or GABAergic neurotransmission may underlie resting-state functional deficits in drug addiction. In doing so, we suggest future research directions and possible treatment implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott J Moeller
- Departments of Psychiatry and Neuroscience, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA.
| | - Edythe D London
- Departments of Psychiatry and Neuroscience, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA; Departments of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, and Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Georg Northoff
- Brain Imaging and Neuroethics Research Unit, Institute of Mental Health Research, Ottawa, Canada.
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15
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Hillmer AT, Mason GF, Fucito LM, O'Malley SS, Cosgrove KP. How Imaging Glutamate, γ-Aminobutyric Acid, and Dopamine Can Inform the Clinical Treatment of Alcohol Dependence and Withdrawal. Alcohol Clin Exp Res 2015; 39:2268-82. [PMID: 26510169 DOI: 10.1111/acer.12893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2015] [Accepted: 08/29/2015] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Neuroimaging studies have dramatically advanced our understanding of the neurochemical basis of alcohol dependence, a major public health issue. In this paper, we review the research generated from neurochemical specific imaging modalities including magnetic resonance spectroscopy, positron emission tomography, and single-photon emission computed tomography in studies of alcohol dependence and withdrawal. We focus on studies interrogating γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA), glutamate, and dopamine, as these are prominent neurotransmitter systems implicated in alcohol dependence. Highlighted findings include diminished dopaminergic functioning and modulation of the GABA system by tobacco smoking during alcohol withdrawal. Then, we consider how these findings impact the clinical treatment of alcohol dependence and discuss directions for future experiments to address existing gaps in the literature, for example, sex differences and smoking comorbidity. These and other considerations provide opportunities to build upon the current neurochemistry imaging literature of alcohol dependence and withdrawal, which may usher in improved therapeutic and relapse prevention strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ansel T Hillmer
- Departments of Psychiatry and Diagnostic Radiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Graeme F Mason
- Departments of Psychiatry and Diagnostic Radiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Lisa M Fucito
- Departments of Psychiatry and Diagnostic Radiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Stephanie S O'Malley
- Departments of Psychiatry and Diagnostic Radiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Kelly P Cosgrove
- Departments of Psychiatry and Diagnostic Radiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
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16
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Loprinzi PD, Herod SM, Walker JF, Cardinal BJ, Mahoney SE, Kane C. Development of a Conceptual Model for Smoking Cessation: Physical Activity, Neurocognition, and Executive Functioning. RESEARCH QUARTERLY FOR EXERCISE AND SPORT 2015; 86:338-346. [PMID: 26391913 DOI: 10.1080/02701367.2015.1074152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Considerable research has shown adverse neurobiological effects of chronic alcohol use, including long-term and potentially permanent changes in the structure and function of the brain; however, much less is known about the neurobiological consequences of chronic smoking, as it has largely been ignored until recently. In this article, we present a conceptual model proposing the effects of smoking on neurocognition and the role that physical activity may play in this relationship as well as its role in smoking cessation. METHODS Pertinent published peer-reviewed articles deposited in PubMed delineating the pathways in the proposed model were reviewed. RESULTS The proposed model, which is supported by emerging research, demonstrates a bidirectional relationship between smoking and executive functioning. In support of our conceptual model, physical activity may moderate this relationship and indirectly influence smoking behavior through physical activity-induced changes in executive functioning. CONCLUSIONS Our model may have implications for aiding smoking cessation efforts through the promotion of physical activity as a mechanism for preventing smoking-induced deficits in neurocognition and executive function.
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17
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Comparison of Regional Brain Perfusion Levels in Chronically Smoking and Non-Smoking Adults. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2015; 12:8198-213. [PMID: 26193290 PMCID: PMC4515717 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph120708198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2015] [Revised: 07/07/2015] [Accepted: 07/10/2015] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Chronic cigarette smoking is associated with numerous abnormalities in brain neurobiology, but few studies specifically investigated the chronic effects of smoking (compared to the acute effects of smoking, nicotine administration, or nicotine withdrawal) on cerebral perfusion (i.e., blood flow). Predominately middle-aged male (47 ± 11 years of age) smokers (n = 34) and non-smokers (n = 27) were compared on regional cortical perfusion measured by continuous arterial spin labeling magnetic resonance studies at 4 Tesla. Smokers showed significantly lower perfusion than non-smokers in the bilateral medial and lateral orbitofrontal cortices, bilateral inferior parietal lobules, bilateral superior temporal gyri, left posterior cingulate, right isthmus of cingulate, and right supramarginal gyrus. Greater lifetime duration of smoking (adjusted for age) was related to lower perfusion in multiple brain regions. The results indicated smokers showed significant perfusion deficits in anterior cortical regions implicated in the development, progression, and maintenance of all addictive disorders. Smokers concurrently demonstrated reduced blood flow in posterior brain regions that show morphological and metabolic aberrations as well as elevated beta amyloid deposition demonstrated by those with early stage Alzheimer disease. The findings provide additional novel evidence of the adverse effects of cigarette smoking on the human brain.
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18
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Hellem T, Shi X, Latendresse G, Renshaw PF. The Utility of Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy for Understanding Substance Use Disorders: A Systematic Review of the Literature. J Am Psychiatr Nurses Assoc 2015; 21:244-75. [PMID: 26282670 PMCID: PMC5495546 DOI: 10.1177/1078390315598606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this article is to present a systematic review of magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) studies of substance use disorders. As a noninvasive and nonionizing imaging technique, MRS is being widely used in substance abuse research to evaluate the effects substances of abuse have on brain chemistry. Nearly 40 peer-reviewed research articles that focused on the utility of MRS in alcohol, methamphetamine, 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine, cocaine, opiates, opioids, marijuana, and nicotine use disorders were reviewed. Findings indicate inconsistencies with respect to alterations in brain chemistry within each substance of abuse, and the most consistent finding across substances was decreased N-acetylaspartate and choline levels with chronic alcohol, methamphetamine, and nicotine use. Variation in the brain regions studied, imaging technique, as well as small sample sizes might explain the discrepancies in findings within each substance. Future well-designed MRS studies offer promise in examining novel treatment approaches in substance use disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tracy Hellem
- Tracy Hellem, PhD, RN, Diagnostic Neuroimaging and College of Nursing, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Xianfeng Shi
- Xianfeng Shi, PhD, Diagnostic Neuroimaging, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Gwen Latendresse
- Gwen Latendresse, PhD, CNM, FACNM, College of Nursing, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Perry F Renshaw
- Perry F. Renshaw, MD, PhD, MBA, Diagnostic Neuroimaging, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA and VISN 19 MIRECC, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
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19
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O'Neill J, Tobias MC, Hudkins M, London ED. Glutamatergic neurometabolites during early abstinence from chronic methamphetamine abuse. Int J Neuropsychopharmacol 2014; 18:pyu059. [PMID: 25522400 PMCID: PMC4360253 DOI: 10.1093/ijnp/pyu059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2014] [Revised: 09/23/2014] [Accepted: 09/25/2014] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The acute phase of abstinence from methamphetamine abuse is critical for rehabilitation success. Proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy has detected below-normal levels of glutamate+glutamine in anterior middle cingulate of chronic methamphetamine abusers during early abstinence, attributed to abstinence-induced downregulation of the glutamatergic systems in the brain. This study further explored this phenomenon. METHODS We measured glutamate+glutamine in additional cortical regions (midline posterior cingulate, midline precuneus, and bilateral inferior frontal cortex) putatively affected by methamphetamine. We examined the relationship between glutamate+glutamine in each region with duration of methamphetamine abuse as well as the depressive symptoms of early abstinence. Magnetic resonance spectroscopic imaging was acquired at 1.5 T from a methamphetamine group of 44 adults who had chronically abused methamphetamine and a control group of 23 age-, sex-, and tobacco smoking-matched healthy volunteers. Participants in the methamphetamine group were studied as inpatients during the first week of abstinence from the drug and were not receiving treatment. RESULTS In the methamphetamine group, small but significant (5-15%, P<.05) decrements (vs control) in glutamate+glutamine were observed in posterior cingulate, precuneus, and right inferior frontal cortex; glutamate+glutamine in posterior cingulate was negatively correlated (P<.05) with years of methamphetamine abuse. The Beck Depression Inventory score was negatively correlated (P<.005) with glutamate+glutamine in right inferior frontal cortex. CONCLUSIONS Our findings support the idea that glutamatergic metabolism is downregulated in early abstinence in multiple cortical regions. The extent of downregulation may vary with length of abuse and may be associated with severity of depressive symptoms emergent in early recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph O'Neill
- Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (Drs O'Neill, Tobias, and Hudkins), and Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences (Drs O'Neill and London), Semel Institute for Neuroscience, and Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology (Dr London), and Brain Research Institute (Dr London), University of California, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Marc C Tobias
- Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (Drs O'Neill, Tobias, and Hudkins), and Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences (Drs O'Neill and London), Semel Institute for Neuroscience, and Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology (Dr London), and Brain Research Institute (Dr London), University of California, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Matthew Hudkins
- Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (Drs O'Neill, Tobias, and Hudkins), and Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences (Drs O'Neill and London), Semel Institute for Neuroscience, and Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology (Dr London), and Brain Research Institute (Dr London), University of California, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Edythe D London
- Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (Drs O'Neill, Tobias, and Hudkins), and Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences (Drs O'Neill and London), Semel Institute for Neuroscience, and Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology (Dr London), and Brain Research Institute (Dr London), University of California, Los Angeles, CA
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