1
|
Peng X, Connolly DJ, Sutton F, Robinson J, Baker-Vogel B, Short EB, Badran BW. Non-invasive suppression of the human nucleus accumbens (NAc) with transcranial focused ultrasound (tFUS) modulates the reward network: a pilot study. Front Hum Neurosci 2024; 18:1359396. [PMID: 38628972 PMCID: PMC11018963 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2024.1359396] [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: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The nucleus accumbens (NAc) is a key node of the brain reward circuit driving reward-related behavior. Dysregulation of NAc has been demonstrated to contribute to pathological markers of addiction in substance use disorder (SUD) making it a potential therapeutic target for brain stimulation. Transcranial focused ultrasound (tFUS) is an emerging non-invasive brain stimulation approach that can modulate deep brain regions with a high spatial resolution. However, there is currently no evidence showing how the brain activity of NAc and brain functional connectivity within the reward network neuromodulated by tFUS on the NAc. Methods In this pilot study, we carried out a single-blind, sham-controlled clinical trial using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to investigate the underlying mechanism of tFUS neuromodulating the reward network through NAc in ten healthy adults. Specifically, the experiment consists of a 20-min concurrent tFUS/fMRI scan and two 24-min resting-state fMRI before and after the tFUS session. Results Firstly, our results demonstrated the feasibility and safety of 20-min tFUS on NAc. Additionally, our findings demonstrated that bilateral NAc was inhibited during tFUS on the left NAc compared to sham. Lastly, increased functional connectivity between the NAc and medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) was observed after tFUS on the left NAc, but no changes for the sham group. Conclusion Delivering tFUS to the NAc can modulate brain activations and functional connectivity within the reward network. These preliminary findings suggest that tFUS could be potentially a promising neuromodulation tool for the direct and non-invasive management of the NAc and shed new light on the treatment for SUD and other brain diseases that involve reward processing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaolong Peng
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Neuro-X Lab, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
2
|
Lee YK, Gold MS, Blum K, Thanos PK, Hanna C, Fuehrlein BS. Opioid use disorder: current trends and potential treatments. Front Public Health 2024; 11:1274719. [PMID: 38332941 PMCID: PMC10850316 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1274719] [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: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Opioid use disorder (OUD) is a major public health threat, contributing to morbidity and mortality from addiction, overdose, and related medical conditions. Despite our increasing knowledge about the pathophysiology and existing medical treatments of OUD, it has remained a relapsing and remitting disorder for decades, with rising deaths from overdoses, rather than declining. The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the increase in overall substance use and interrupted access to treatment. If increased naloxone access, more buprenorphine prescribers, greater access to treatment, enhanced reimbursement, less stigma and various harm reduction strategies were effective for OUD, overdose deaths would not be at an all-time high. Different prevention and treatment approaches are needed to reverse the concerning trend in OUD. This article will review the recent trends and limitations on existing medications for OUD and briefly review novel approaches to treatment that have the potential to be more durable and effective than existing medications. The focus will be on promising interventional treatments, psychedelics, neuroimmune, neutraceutical, and electromagnetic therapies. At different phases of investigation and FDA approval, these novel approaches have the potential to not just reduce overdoses and deaths, but attenuate OUD, as well as address existing comorbid disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yu Kyung Lee
- Department of Psychiatry, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Mark S. Gold
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University in St. Louis Euclid Ave, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Kenneth Blum
- Division of Addiction Research and Education, Center for Sports, Exercise, and Mental Health, Western University Health Sciences, Pomona, CA, United States
| | - Panayotis K. Thanos
- Behavioral Neuropharmacology and Neuroimaging Laboratory on Addictions, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biosciences, Clinical Research Institute on Addictions, State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, United States
| | - Colin Hanna
- Behavioral Neuropharmacology and Neuroimaging Laboratory on Addictions, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biosciences, Clinical Research Institute on Addictions, State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, United States
| | | |
Collapse
|
3
|
Zhu Y, Wang K, Ma T, Ji Y, Lou Y, Fu X, Lu Y, Liu Y, Dang W, Zhang Q, Yin F, Wang K, Yu B, Zhang H, Lai J, Wang Y. Nucleus accumbens D1/D2 circuits control opioid withdrawal symptoms in mice. J Clin Invest 2023; 133:e163266. [PMID: 37561576 PMCID: PMC10503809 DOI: 10.1172/jci163266] [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: 07/05/2022] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The nucleus accumbens (NAc) is the most promising target for drug use disorder treatment. Deep brain stimulation (DBS) of NAc is effective for drug use disorder treatment. However, the mechanisms by which DBS produces its therapeutic effects remain enigmatic. Here, we define a behavioral cutoff criterion to distinguish depressive-like behaviors and non-depressive-like behaviors in mice after morphine withdrawal. We identified a basolateral amygdala (BLA) to NAc D1 medium spiny neuron (MSN) pathway that controls depressive-like behaviors after morphine withdrawal. Furthermore, the paraventricular nucleus of thalamus (PVT) to NAc D2 MSN pathway controls naloxone-induced acute withdrawal symptoms. Optogenetically induced long-term potentiation with κ-opioid receptor (KOR) antagonism enhanced BLA to NAc D1 MSN signaling and also altered the excitation/inhibition balance of NAc D2 MSN signaling. We also verified that a new 50 Hz DBS protocol reversed morphine withdrawal-evoked abnormal plasticity in NAc. Importantly, this refined DBS treatment effectively alleviated naloxone-induced withdrawal symptoms and depressive-like behaviors and prevented stress-induced reinstatement. Taken together, the results demonstrated that input- and cell type-specific synaptic plasticity underlies morphine withdrawal, which may lead to novel targets for the treatment of opioid use disorder.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yongsheng Zhu
- College of Forensic Science, Key Laboratory of National Health Commission for Forensic Science, National Biosafety Evidence Foundation, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
| | - Kejia Wang
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Organ and Tissue Regeneration, Xiamen Key Laboratory of Regeneration Medicine, Organ Transplantation Institute of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Tengfei Ma
- School of Pharmacy, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yuanyuan Ji
- College of Forensic Science, Key Laboratory of National Health Commission for Forensic Science, National Biosafety Evidence Foundation, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
| | - Yin Lou
- College of Forensic Science, Key Laboratory of National Health Commission for Forensic Science, National Biosafety Evidence Foundation, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
| | - Xiaoyu Fu
- College of Forensic Science, Key Laboratory of National Health Commission for Forensic Science, National Biosafety Evidence Foundation, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
| | - Ye Lu
- College of Forensic Science, Key Laboratory of National Health Commission for Forensic Science, National Biosafety Evidence Foundation, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
| | - Yige Liu
- College of Forensic Science, Key Laboratory of National Health Commission for Forensic Science, National Biosafety Evidence Foundation, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
| | - Wei Dang
- The Sixth Ward, Xi’an Mental Health Center, Xi’an, China
| | - Qian Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Fangyuan Yin
- College of Forensic Science, Key Laboratory of National Health Commission for Forensic Science, National Biosafety Evidence Foundation, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
| | - Kena Wang
- College of Forensic Science, Key Laboratory of National Health Commission for Forensic Science, National Biosafety Evidence Foundation, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
| | - Bing Yu
- School of Pharmacy, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Hongbo Zhang
- College of Forensic Science, Key Laboratory of National Health Commission for Forensic Science, National Biosafety Evidence Foundation, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
| | - Jianghua Lai
- College of Forensic Science, Key Laboratory of National Health Commission for Forensic Science, National Biosafety Evidence Foundation, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
| | - Yunpeng Wang
- College of Forensic Science, Key Laboratory of National Health Commission for Forensic Science, National Biosafety Evidence Foundation, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
- Department of Psychiatry and Center for Brain Science, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
- Shaanxi Belt and Road Joint Laboratory of Precision Medicine in Psychiatry, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Dassen AR, van Schaik J, van den Munckhof P, Schuurman P, Hoving EW, van Santen HM. Could deep brain stimulation be a possible solution for acquired hypothalamic obesity? Heliyon 2023; 9:e14411. [PMID: 36967879 PMCID: PMC10036662 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e14411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2022] [Revised: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/03/2023] [Indexed: 03/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective Hypothalamic dysfunction may result in morbid obesity as a consequence of decreased energy expenditure, decreased feelings of satiety, and increased fat storage. In patients with hypothalamic dysfunction, neurobehavioral dysfunction is also often present. Currently, no effective treatment has been found for hypothalamic obesity (HO). We hypothesize that deep brain stimulation (DBS) may be an effective treatment for patients with hypothalamic dysfunction, aiming to treat HO as well as the neurobehavioral dysfunction. Methods A systematic search was conducted in the PubMed, EMBASE and Cochrane Library databases for studies published until May 2022 reporting on DBS for the treatment of HO. Results Three studies met the predetermined inclusion criteria, with in total six patients treated with DBS for HO, of which five patients with Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS) and one patient with HO after treatment for craniopharyngioma (CP). Targets of DBS included the lateral hypothalamic area (LHA) and the nucleus accumbens (NAcc). In patients with PWS, LHA-DBS was associated with a mean increase of Body Mass Index (BMI) (+5.8%), with no change in hormonal levels, results of blood workup, sleep, or neuropsychological evaluation. In the patient with CP, NAcc-DBS was associated with a decrease in BMI (-8.7%) and a subjective increase in mental health, energy and willingness to act, and no feeling of increased appetite. No objective measurements on neurobehavioral function were reported. No severe adverse events were reported in these cases. Mild to moderate adverse events included hypomanic symptoms and infection. All patients with a described follow-up period (n = 5) were able to sustain the treatment for at least 6 months with few interruptions. Conclusion There is limited research reporting on DBS for HO. The effectiveness differed across studies and the evidence is limited. Although there may be potential for DBS treatment in the severe-refractory condition of HO in patients with CP, more research is needed for target selection and evaluation of effectiveness.
Collapse
|
5
|
Deep brain stimulation of the nucleus accumbens in treatment-resistant alcohol use disorder: a double-blind randomized controlled multi-center trial. Transl Psychiatry 2023; 13:49. [PMID: 36755017 PMCID: PMC9908935 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-023-02337-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2022] [Revised: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Treatment resistance in alcohol use disorders (AUD) is a major problem for affected individuals and for society. In the search of new treatment options, few case studies using deep brain stimulation (DBS) of the nucleus accumbens have indicated positive effects in AUD. Here we report a double-blind randomized controlled trial comparing active DBS ("DBS-EARLY ON") against sham stimulation ("DBS-LATE ON") over 6 months in n = 12 AUD inpatients. This 6-month blind phase was followed by a 12-month unblinded period in which all patients received active DBS. Continuous abstinence (primary outcome), alcohol use, alcohol craving, depressiveness, anxiety, anhedonia and quality of life served as outcome parameters. The primary intention-to-treat analysis, comparing continuous abstinence between treatment groups, did not yield statistically significant results, most likely due to the restricted number of participants. In light of the resulting limited statistical power, there is the question of whether DBS effects on secondary outcomes can nonetheless be interpreted as indicative of an therapeutic effect. Analyses of secondary outcomes provide evidence for this, demonstrating a significantly higher proportion of abstinent days, lower alcohol craving and anhedonia in the DBS-EARLY ON group 6 months after randomization. Exploratory responder analyses indicated that patients with high baseline alcohol craving, depressiveness and anhedonia responded to DBS. The results of this first randomized controlled trial are suggestive of beneficial effects of DBS in treatment-resistant AUD and encourage a replication in larger samples.
Collapse
|
6
|
Lehmann CM, Moussawi K. Cell type and sex specific insights into ventral striatum deep brain stimulation for cocaine relapse. Neuropsychopharmacology 2023; 48:434-435. [PMID: 36513870 PMCID: PMC9852299 DOI: 10.1038/s41386-022-01513-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2022] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Collin M Lehmann
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Khaled Moussawi
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Camacho‐Conde JA, del Rosario Gonzalez‐Bermudez M, Carretero‐Rey M, Khan ZU. Therapeutic potential of brain stimulation techniques in the treatment of mental, psychiatric, and cognitive disorders. CNS Neurosci Ther 2022; 29:8-23. [PMID: 36229994 PMCID: PMC9804057 DOI: 10.1111/cns.13971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2022] [Revised: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 08/26/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Treatment for brain diseases has been disappointing because available medications have failed to produce clinical response across all the patients. Many patients either do not respond or show partial and inconsistent effect, and even in patients who respond to the medications have high relapse rates. Brain stimulation has been seen as an alternative and effective remedy. As a result, brain stimulation has become one of the most valuable therapeutic tools for combating against brain diseases. In last decade, studies with the application of brain stimulation techniques not only have grown exponentially but also have expanded to wide range of brain disorders. Brain stimulation involves passing electric currents into the cortical and subcortical area brain cells with the use of noninvasive as well as invasive methods to amend brain functions. Over time, technological advancements have evolved into the development of precise devices; however, at present, most used noninvasive techniques are repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) and transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), whereas the most common invasive technique is deep brain stimulation (DBS). In the current review, we will provide an overview of the potential of noninvasive (rTMS and tDCS) and invasive (DBS) brain stimulation techniques focusing on the treatment of mental, psychiatric, and cognitive disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jose Antonio Camacho‐Conde
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, CIMESUniversity of Malaga, Campus Teatinos s/nMalagaSpain,Department of Medicine, Faculty of MedicineUniversity of Malaga, Campus Teatinos s/nMalagaSpain
| | | | - Marta Carretero‐Rey
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, CIMESUniversity of Malaga, Campus Teatinos s/nMalagaSpain,Department of Medicine, Faculty of MedicineUniversity of Malaga, Campus Teatinos s/nMalagaSpain
| | - Zafar U. Khan
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, CIMESUniversity of Malaga, Campus Teatinos s/nMalagaSpain,Department of Medicine, Faculty of MedicineUniversity of Malaga, Campus Teatinos s/nMalagaSpain,CIBERNEDInstitute of Health Carlos IIIMadridSpain
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Deep brain stimulation of the nucleus accumbens in the treatment of severe alcohol use disorder: a phase I pilot trial. Mol Psychiatry 2022; 27:3992-4000. [PMID: 35858989 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-022-01677-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2022] [Revised: 06/15/2022] [Accepted: 06/17/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a highly prevalent, often refractory, medical illness. The symptoms of AUD are driven by dysfunction in several neurocircuits centered on the nucleus accumbens (NAc). Case reports and animal studies suggest NAc-DBS may be an effective harm-reduction treatment in severe AUD. Six patients with severe, refractory AUD underwent NAc-DBS. Safety metrics and clinical outcomes were recorded. Positron emission tomography (FDG-PET) was used to measure glucose metabolism in the NAc at baseline and 6 months. Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) was used to characterize postoperative changes in NAc functional connectivity to the rest of the brain, as well as NAc and dorsal striatal reactivity to alcoholic visual cues. This study was registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03660124. All patients experienced a reduction in craving. There was a significant reduction in alcohol consumption, alcohol-related compulsivity, and anxiety at 12 months. There was no significant change in depression. FDG-PET analysis demonstrated reduced NAc metabolism by 6 months, which correlated with improvements in compulsive drinking behaviors. Clinical improvement correlated with reduced functional connectivity between the NAc and the visual association cortex. Active DBS was associated with reduced activation of the dorsal striatum during passive viewing of alcohol-containing pictures. NAc-DBS is feasible and safe in patients with severe, otherwise refractory AUD. It is associated with a reduction in cravings and addictive behavior. A potential mechanism underlying this process is a down-regulation of the NAc, a disruption of its functional connectivity to the visual association cortex, and interference of cue-elicited dorsal striatum reactivity. Trial Registration NCT03660124 ( www.clinicaltrials.gov ).
Collapse
|
9
|
Deep brain stimulation for opioid use disorder: A systematic review of preclinical and clinical evidence. Brain Res Bull 2022; 187:39-48. [PMID: 35777703 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2022.06.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Revised: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 06/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
Opioid use disorder (OUD) is a chronic and complex disease characterized by repeated relapses and remissions. Deep brain stimulation (DBS) has been discussed again and again as a potentially helpful neuromodulatory procedure in this context. In this review, for the first time, we intended to systematically identify the positive and negative effects of DBS in human and animal models of opioid dependence to assess the viability of DBS as a treatment of OUD. Eligible studies were incorporated by a comprehensive literature search and evaluated through proper methodological quality assessment tools. Findings showed that the nucleus accumbens was the most stimulated brain target in human and animal studies, and DBS was applied chiefly in the form of high-frequency stimulation (HFS). DBS administration effectively reduced opioid craving and consumption in human and animal subjects dependent on opioids. DBS represents a valuable alternative strategy for treating intractable opioid addiction. Based on our systematic literature analysis, research efforts in this field should be continued.
Collapse
|
10
|
Abstract
Diffusion tractography allows identification and measurement of structural tracts in the human brain previously associated with motivated behavior in animal models. Recent findings indicate that the structural properties of a tract connecting the midbrain to nucleus accumbens (NAcc) are associated with a diagnosis of stimulant use disorder (SUD), but not relapse. In this preregistered study, we used diffusion tractography in a sample of patients treated for SUD (n = 60) to determine whether qualities of tracts projecting from medial prefrontal, anterior insular, and amygdalar cortices to NAcc might instead foreshadow relapse. As predicted, reduced diffusion metrics of a tract projecting from the right anterior insula to the NAcc were associated with subsequent relapse to stimulant use, but not with previous diagnosis. These findings highlight a structural target for predicting relapse to stimulant use and further suggest that distinct connections to the NAcc may confer risk for relapse versus diagnosis.
Collapse
|
11
|
Stevens I, Gilbert F. International Regulatory Standards for the Qualitative Measurement of Deep Brain Stimulation in Clinical Research. J Empir Res Hum Res Ethics 2022; 17:228-241. [DOI: 10.1177/15562646221094922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Deep brain stimulation (DBS) has progressed to become a promising treatment modality for neurologic and psychiatric disorders like epilepsy and major depressive disorder due to its growing personalization. Despite evidence pointing to the benefits of DBS if tested on these personalized qualitative metrics, rather than randomized-control trial quantitative standards, the evaluation of these novel devices appears to be based on the latter. This study surveyed the presence of this trend in the national regulatory guidelines of the prominent DBS researching countries. It was found that two governing bodies, in the European Union and Australia, acknowledged the option for qualitative measures. These findings support further development of national regulatory guidelines, so the neuroscientific community developing these neurotechnologies can better understand the impact their treatments have on patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- I. Stevens
- School of Humanities, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
| | - F. Gilbert
- School of Humanities, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Messina G, Vetrano IG, Bonomo G, Broggi G. Role of deep brain stimulation in management of psychiatric disorders. PROGRESS IN BRAIN RESEARCH 2022; 270:61-96. [PMID: 35396031 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pbr.2022.01.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Nowadays, most of patients affected by psychiatric disorders are successfully treated with conservative therapies. Still, a variable percentage of them demonstrate resistance to conventional treatments, and alternative methods can then be considered. During the last 20 years, there is a progressive interest in use of deep brain stimulation (DBS) in mental illnesses. It has become clear nowadays, that this modality may be effectively applied under specific indications in some patients with major depressive disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, anorexia nervosa and other eating disorders, Tourette syndrome, schizophrenia, substance use disorder, and even pathologically aggressive behavior. Despite the fact that the efficacy of neuromodulation with DBS, as well as of various lesional interventions, in cases of mental illnesses is still not fully established, there are several premises for wider applications of such "unclassical" psychiatric treatments in the future. Novel technologies of DBS, developments in non-invasive lesioning using stereotactic radiosurgery and transcranial magnetic resonance-guided focused ultrasound, and advances of neurophysiological and neuroimaging modalities may bolster further clinical applications of psychiatric neurosurgery, improve its results, and allow for individually selected treatment strategies tailored to specific needs of the patient.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Messina
- Functional Neurosurgery Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan, Italy.
| | - Ignazio G Vetrano
- Department of Neurosurgery, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan, Italy
| | - Giulio Bonomo
- Functional Neurosurgery Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan, Italy
| | - Giovanni Broggi
- Functional Neurosurgery Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan, Italy; Department of Neurosurgery, M Cecilia Hospital-GVM, Ravenna, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Webber HE, Schmitz JM. The potential of brain stimulation techniques for substance use disorder treatment. REVISTA BRASILEIRA DE PSIQUIATRIA 2022; 44:239-241. [PMID: 35081209 PMCID: PMC9169471 DOI: 10.1590/1516-4446-2021-0040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2021] [Accepted: 11/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Joy M. Schmitz
- University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, USA
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Lee YK, Gold MS, Fuehrlein BS. Looking beyond the opioid receptor: A desperate need for new treatments for opioid use disorder. J Neurol Sci 2022; 432:120094. [PMID: 34933249 DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2021.120094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2021] [Revised: 12/10/2021] [Accepted: 12/12/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
The mainstay of treatment for opioid use disorder (OUD) is opioid agonist therapy (OAT), which modulates opioid receptors to reduce substance craving and use. OAT maintains dependence on opioids but helps reduce overdose and negative sequelae of substance abuse. Despite increasing availability of OAT, its effectiveness is limited by difficulty in initiating and maintaining patients on treatment. With the worsening opioid epidemic in the United States and rising overdose deaths, a more durable and effective treatment for OUD is necessary. This paper reviews novel treatments being investigated for OUD, including neuromodulatory interventions, psychedelic drugs, and other novel approaches. Neuromodulatory interventions can stimulate the addiction neural circuitry involving the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex and deeper mesolimbic structures to curb craving and reduce use, and multiple clinical trials for interventional treatment for OUD are currently conducted. Similarly, psychedelic agents are being investigated for efficacy in OUD specifically. There is a resurgence of interest in psychedelic agents' therapeutic potential, with evidence of improving mood symptoms and decreased substance use even after just one dose. Exact mechanism of their anti-addictive effect is not fully elucidated, but psychedelic agents do not maintain opioid dependence and some may even be helpful in abating symptoms of withdrawal. Other potential approaches for OUD include targeting different parts of the dopamine-dependent addiction pathway, identifying susceptible genes and modulating gene products, as well as utilizing vaccines as immunotherapy to blunt the addictive effects of substances. Much more clinical data are needed to support efficacy and safety of these therapies in OUD, but these proposed novel treatments look beyond the opioid receptor to offer hope for a more durably effective OUD treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yu Kyung Lee
- School of Medicine, Yale University, 333 Cedar St, New Haven, CT 06510, USA.
| | - Mark S Gold
- Washington University School of Medicine, 660 S. Euclid Ave., St. Louis, MO 63110, USA.
| | - Brian S Fuehrlein
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University, 300 George Street, New Haven, CT 06511, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Covey DP, Yocky AG. Endocannabinoid Modulation of Nucleus Accumbens Microcircuitry and Terminal Dopamine Release. Front Synaptic Neurosci 2021; 13:734975. [PMID: 34497503 PMCID: PMC8419321 DOI: 10.3389/fnsyn.2021.734975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2021] [Accepted: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The nucleus accumbens (NAc) is located in the ventromedial portion of the striatum and is vital to valence-based predictions and motivated action. The neural architecture of the NAc allows for complex interactions between various cell types that filter incoming and outgoing information. Dopamine (DA) input serves a crucial role in modulating NAc function, but the mechanisms that control terminal DA release and its effect on NAc neurons continues to be elucidated. The endocannabinoid (eCB) system has emerged as an important filter of neural circuitry within the NAc that locally shapes terminal DA release through various cell type- and site-specific actions. Here, we will discuss how eCB signaling modulates terminal DA release by shaping the activity patterns of NAc neurons and their afferent inputs. We then discuss recent technological advancements that are capable of dissecting how distinct cell types, their afferent projections, and local neuromodulators influence valence-based actions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dan P Covey
- Department of Neuroscience, Lovelace Biomedical Research Institute, Albuquerque, NM, United States
| | - Alyssa G Yocky
- Department of Neuroscience, Lovelace Biomedical Research Institute, Albuquerque, NM, United States
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Georgiev D, Akram H, Jahanshahi M. Deep brain stimulation for psychiatric disorders: role of imaging in identifying/confirming DBS targets, predicting, and optimizing outcome and unravelling mechanisms of action. PSYCHORADIOLOGY 2021; 1:118-151. [PMID: 38665808 PMCID: PMC10917192 DOI: 10.1093/psyrad/kkab012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2021] [Revised: 08/31/2021] [Accepted: 09/08/2021] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
Following the established application of deep brain stimulation (DBS) in the treatment of movement disorders, new non-neurological indications have emerged, such as for obsessive-compulsive disorders, major depressive disorder, dementia, Gilles de la Tourette Syndrome, anorexia nervosa, and addictions. As DBS is a network modulation surgical treatment, the development of DBS for both neurological and psychiatric disorders has been partly driven by advances in neuroimaging, which has helped explain the brain networks implicated. Advances in magnetic resonance imaging connectivity and electrophysiology have led to the development of the concept of modulating widely distributed, complex brain networks. Moreover, the increasing number of targets for treating psychiatric disorders have indicated that there may be a convergence of the effect of stimulating different targets for the same disorder, and the effect of stimulating the same target for different disorders. The aim of this paper is to review the imaging studies of DBS for psychiatric disorders. Imaging, and particularly connectivity analysis, offers exceptional opportunities to better understand and even predict the clinical outcomes of DBS, especially where there is a lack of objective biomarkers that are essential to properly guide DBS pre- and post-operatively. In future, imaging might also prove useful to individualize DBS treatment. Finally, one of the most important aspects of imaging in DBS is that it allows us to better understand the brain through observing the changes of the functional connectome under neuromodulation, which may in turn help explain the mechanisms of action of DBS that remain elusive.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dejan Georgiev
- Department of Clinical and Movement Neurosciences, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, Queen Square, London, WC1N 3BG, UK
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, Zaloška cesta 2, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Artificial Intelligence Laboratory, Faculty of Computer and Information Science, University of Ljubljana, Večna pot 113, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Harith Akram
- Department of Clinical and Movement Neurosciences, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, Queen Square, London, WC1N 3BG, UK
| | - Marjan Jahanshahi
- Department of Clinical and Movement Neurosciences, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, Queen Square, London, WC1N 3BG, UK
- The Clinical Hospital of Chengdu Brain Science Institute, MOE Key Laboratory for Neuroinformation, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, 611731, China
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Clerke JA, Congiu M, Mameli M. Neuronal adaptations in the lateral habenula during drug withdrawal: Preclinical evidence for addiction therapy. Neuropharmacology 2021; 192:108617. [PMID: 34019906 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2021.108617] [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: 03/01/2021] [Revised: 04/14/2021] [Accepted: 05/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The epithalamic lateral habenula (LHb) regulates monoaminergic systems and contributes to the expression of both appetitive and aversive behaviours. Over the past years, the LHb has emerged as a vulnerable brain structure in mental illnesses including addiction. Behavioural and functional evidence in humans and rodents provide substantial support for a role of LHb in the negative affective symptoms emerging during withdrawal from addictive substances. Multiple forms of cellular and synaptic adaptations that take hold during drug withdrawal within the LHb are causally linked with the emergence of negative affective symptoms. These results indicate that targeting drug withdrawal-driven adaptations in the LHb may represent a potential strategy to normalize drug-related behavioural adaptations. In the current review we describe the mechanisms leading to functional alterations in the LHb, as well as the existing interventions used to counteract addictive behaviours. Finally, closing this loop we discuss and propose new avenues to potentially target the LHb in humans in light of the mechanistic understanding stemming from pre-clinical studies. Altogether, we provide an overview on how to leverage cellular-level understanding to envision clinically-relevant approaches for the treatment of specific aspects in drug addiction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joseph A Clerke
- The Department of Fundamental Neuroscience, The University of Lausanne, 1005, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Mauro Congiu
- The Department of Fundamental Neuroscience, The University of Lausanne, 1005, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Manuel Mameli
- The Department of Fundamental Neuroscience, The University of Lausanne, 1005, Lausanne, Switzerland; Inserm, UMR-S 839, 75005, Paris, France.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Potes MI, Joaquin C, Wiecks N, Phan S, Hassan O. The utility of deep brain stimulation surgery for treating eating disorders: A systematic review. Surg Neurol Int 2021; 12:169. [PMID: 34084597 PMCID: PMC8168795 DOI: 10.25259/sni_730_2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2020] [Accepted: 03/16/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Deep brain stimulation (DBS) has demonstrated preliminary success as a treatment for neuropsychological disorders including obsessive-compulsive disorder and substance use disorder. This systematic review aims to assess the use of DBS in treating eating disorders (EDs) to determine its utility and the extent of adverse effects. Methods: A PubMed search following PRISMA guidelines was executed to find studies encompassing DBS as a treatment of ED. Outcomes were extracted from the literature and summarized while a review of quality was also performed. Results: From a search yielding 299 publications, 11 studies published between 2010 and 2020 were found to fit the inclusion criteria. Out of 53 patients who began with an abnormal BMI before treatment, 22 patients (41.5%) achieved normal BMI on follow-up. Significant neuropsychological improvement was seen in most patients as measured by neuropsychiatric testing and questionnaires. Conclusion: DBS as a treatment for ED may result in significant objective and psychological benefits. Further studies should aim to increase the sample size, standardize follow-up protocol, and standardize the neuropsychiatric tests used to determine psychological and physiological benefits.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mark Immanuel Potes
- Department of Medical Education, School of Medicine, California University of Science and Medicine, Colton, California, United States
| | - Christian Joaquin
- Department of Clinical Education, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, Erie, Pennsylvania, United States
| | - Nicole Wiecks
- Department of Basic Sciences, Touro University Nevada College of Osteopathic Medicine, Henderson, Nevada, United States
| | - Sheshanna Phan
- Department of Basic Sciences, Touro University Nevada College of Osteopathic Medicine, Henderson, Nevada, United States
| | - Omron Hassan
- Department of Basic Sciences, Touro University Nevada College of Osteopathic Medicine, Henderson, Nevada, United States
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Alternatives to Pharmacological and Psychotherapeutic Treatments in Psychiatric Disorders. PSYCHIATRY INTERNATIONAL 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/psychiatryint2010001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Nowadays, most of the patients affected by psychiatric disorders are successfully treated with psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy. Nevertheless, according to the disease, a variable percentage of patients results resistant to such modalities, and alternative methods can then be considered. The purpose of this review is to summarize the techniques and results of invasive modalities for several treatment-resistant psychiatric diseases. A literature search was performed to provide an up-to-date review of advantages, disadvantages, efficacy, and complications of Deep-Brain Stimulation, Magnetic Resonance-guided Focused-Ultrasound, radiofrequency, and radiotherapy lesioning for depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, schizophrenia, addiction, anorexia nervosa, and Tourette’s syndrome. The literature search did not strictly follow the criteria for a systematic review: due to the large differences in methodologies and patients’ cohort, we tried to identify the highest quality of available evidence for each technique. We present the data as a comprehensive, narrative review about the role, indication, safety, and results of the contemporary instrumental techniques that opened new therapeutic fields for selected patients unresponsive to psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy.
Collapse
|