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Sun Q, Li G, Zhao F, Dong M, Xie W, Liu Q, Yang W, Cui R. Role of estrogen in treatment of female depression. Aging (Albany NY) 2024; 16:3021-3042. [PMID: 38309292 PMCID: PMC10911346 DOI: 10.18632/aging.205507] [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: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2024]
Abstract
Depression is a neurological disorder that profoundly affects human physical and mental health, resulting in various changes in the central nervous system. Despite several prominent hypotheses, such as the monoaminergic theory, hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis theory, neuroinflammation, and neuroplasticity, the current understanding of depression's pathogenesis remains incomplete. Importantly, depression is a gender-dimorphic disorder, with women exhibiting higher incidence rates than men. Given estrogen's pivotal role in the menstrual cycle, it is reasonable to postulate that its fluctuating levels could contribute to the pathogenesis of depression. Estrogen acts by binding to a diversity of receptors, which are widely distributed in the central nervous system. An abundance of research has established that estrogen and its receptors play a crucial role in depression, spanning pathogenesis and treatment. In this comprehensive review, we provide an in-depth analysis of the fundamental role of estrogen and its receptors in depression, with a focus on neuroinflammation, neuroendocrinology, and neuroplasticity. Furthermore, we discuss potential mechanisms underlying the therapeutic effects of estrogen in the treatment of depression, which may pave the way for new antidepressant drug development and alternative treatment options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qihan Sun
- Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory on Molecular and Chemical Genetic, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130000, P.R. China
| | - Guangquan Li
- Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory on Molecular and Chemical Genetic, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130000, P.R. China
| | - Fangyi Zhao
- Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory on Molecular and Chemical Genetic, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130000, P.R. China
| | - Mengmeng Dong
- Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory on Molecular and Chemical Genetic, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130000, P.R. China
| | - Wei Xie
- Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory on Molecular and Chemical Genetic, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130000, P.R. China
| | - Qianqian Liu
- Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory on Molecular and Chemical Genetic, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130000, P.R. China
| | - Wei Yang
- Department of Neurology, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130041, P.R. China
| | - Ranji Cui
- Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory on Molecular and Chemical Genetic, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130000, P.R. China
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Pletzer B, Winkler-Crepaz K, Hillerer K. Progesterone and contraceptive progestin actions on the brain: A systematic review of animal studies and comparison to human neuroimaging studies. Front Neuroendocrinol 2023; 69:101060. [PMID: 36758768 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2023.101060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2022] [Revised: 01/25/2023] [Accepted: 02/03/2023] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
Abstract
In this review we systematically summarize the effects of progesterone and synthetic progestins on neurogenesis, synaptogenesis, myelination and six neurotransmitter systems. Several parallels between progesterone and older generation progestin actions emerged, suggesting actions via progesterone receptors. However, existing results suggest a general lack of knowledge regarding the effects of currently used progestins in hormonal contraception regarding these cellular and molecular brain parameters. Human neuroimaging studies were reviewed with a focus on randomized placebo-controlled trials and cross-sectional studies controlling for progestin type. The prefrontal cortex, amygdala, salience network and hippocampus were identified as regions of interest for future preclinical studies. This review proposes a series of experiments to elucidate the cellular and molecular actions of contraceptive progestins in these areas and link these actions to behavioral markers of emotional and cognitive functioning. Emotional effects of contraceptive progestins appear to be related to 1) alterations in the serotonergic system, 2) direct/indirect modulations of inhibitory GABA-ergic signalling via effects on the allopregnanolone content of the brain, which differ between androgenic and anti-androgenic progestins. Cognitive effects of combined oral contraceptives appear to depend on the ethinylestradiol dose.
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Affiliation(s)
- Belinda Pletzer
- Department of Psychology & Centre for Cognitive Neuroscience, Paris-Lodron-University Salzburg, Salzburg Austria.
| | | | - Katharina Hillerer
- Department of Gynaecology & Obstetrics, Private Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
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3
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Endocrine Therapy With or Without CDK4/6 Inhibitors in Women With Hormone-receptor Positive Breast Cancer: What do we Know About the Effects on Cognition? Clin Breast Cancer 2021; 22:191-199. [PMID: 34556423 DOI: 10.1016/j.clbc.2021.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2021] [Revised: 08/01/2021] [Accepted: 08/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Adjuvant endocrine therapy (ET) is the cornerstone of treatment for hormone-receptor positive breast cancer. Recently, ET is increasingly combined with "cyclin-dependent kinases 4 and 6'' (CDK4/6) inhibitors. Given the importance of estrogens in neural processes and the role of cyclin D in hippocampal cell proliferation, it is plausible that these therapies affect cognition, but studies on these potential cognitive effects are sparse. In this review, we summarize existing knowledge on the cognitive effects of ET and CDK4/6 inhibitors in pre-, peri- and postmenopausal patients with breast cancer. We show that several clinical studies support adverse cognitive effects, especially on verbal memory, after ET-induced decrease of estrogen-levels or inactivation of estrogen-receptors. Clinical studies on the cognitive effects of CDK4/6 inhibitors are virtually non-existent and no conclusions can yet be drawn. Longitudinal studies on the cognitive effects of the combined ET-CDK4/6 inhibitors are highly needed to properly inform patients about potential short-term and long-term cognitive side effects. These studies should preferably include cognitive assessments (including a measurement prior to ET), and be designed in such a way that they can account for variables such as type and duration of ET, CDK4/6 inhibition, menopausal status, and other disease- and treatment-related symptoms that can impact cognition, such as fatigue and distress.
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Yao T, He J, Cui Z, Wang R, Bao K, Huang Y, Wang R, Liu T. Central 5-HTR2C in the Control of Metabolic Homeostasis. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:694204. [PMID: 34367066 PMCID: PMC8334728 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.694204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2021] [Accepted: 07/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The 5-hydroxytryptamine 2C receptor (5-HTR2C) is a class G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) enriched in the hypothalamus and the brain stem, where it has been shown to regulate energy homeostasis, including feeding and glucose metabolism. Accordingly, 5-HTR2C has been the target of several anti-obesity drugs, though the associated side effects greatly curbed their clinical applications. Dissecting the specific neural circuits of 5-HTR2C-expressing neurons and the detailed molecular pathways of 5-HTR2C signaling in metabolic regulation will help to develop better therapeutic strategies towards metabolic disorders. In this review, we introduced the regulatory role of 5-HTR2C in feeding behavior and glucose metabolism, with particular focus on the molecular pathways, neural network, and its interaction with other metabolic hormones, such as leptin, ghrelin, insulin, and estrogens. Moreover, the latest progress in the clinical research on 5-HTR2C agonists was also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Yao
- School of Kinesiology, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi’an Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Xi’an, China
- *Correspondence: Ting Yao, ; Ru Wang, ; Tiemin Liu,
| | - Jiehui He
- School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhicheng Cui
- School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ruwen Wang
- School of Kinesiology, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China
| | - Kaixuan Bao
- Human Phenome Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yiru Huang
- School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ru Wang
- School of Kinesiology, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Ting Yao, ; Ru Wang, ; Tiemin Liu,
| | - Tiemin Liu
- School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Human Phenome Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
- *Correspondence: Ting Yao, ; Ru Wang, ; Tiemin Liu,
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The interaction between estradiol change and the serotonin transporter gene (5-HTTLPR) polymorphism is associated with postpartum depressive symptoms. Psychiatr Genet 2020; 29:97-102. [PMID: 31246736 DOI: 10.1097/ypg.0000000000000222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Although estrogenic fluctuation is considered a major risk factor for postpartum depression (PPD), the effects of the interactions between the genetic background and estradiol (E2) change on PPD are not well understood. Here, a cohort study with 437 postpartum women was carried out to evaluate the role of a serotonin transporter gene polymorphism (5-HTTLPR) and E2 change on the risk of PPD symptoms. The participants were assessed using the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale and the Self-Rating Depression Scale at 1 and 6 weeks after delivery. The PCR-based restriction fragment length polymorphism method was utilized to examine the genotype distribution of the 5-HTTLPR polymorphism, and the serum levels of E2 were determined in individuals in the third trimester of pregnancy and at 1 week postpartum. A significant association was observed between E2 change and PPD susceptibility in the late postpartum period (6 weeks) [P = 0.002, odds ratio (OR) = 2.341, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.361-4.027], but it was not observed in the early postpartum period (1 week). There was no significant association between the 5-HTTLPR genotype and PPD risk at both the early and late postpartum periods (P > 0.05). However, the interaction between E2 change and the 5-HTTLPR polymorphism could reasonably influence PPD risk. The women who carried the SS genotype with large decreases in E2 showed a significantly higher risk for PPD at both the early (P = 0.002, OR = 2.525, 95% CI = 1.384-4.059) and late postpartum periods (P < 0.001, OR = 3.108, 95% CI = 1.562-4.436) compared with those who carried the SL/LL genotype. This study suggests that there is an association between E2 change in the perinatal period with the 5-HTTLPR genotype and the occurrence of PPD.
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Gasbarri A, D'Amico M, Arnone B, Iorio C, Pacitti F, Ciotti S, Iorio P, Pompili A. Electrophysiological and Behavioral Indices of the Role of Estrogens on Memory Processes for Emotional Faces in Healthy Young Women. Front Behav Neurosci 2019; 13:234. [PMID: 31632252 PMCID: PMC6779715 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2019.00234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2019] [Accepted: 09/18/2019] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
It is well known that estrogens influence cognitive activities, such as memory, and emotional states. The objective of the present study was to investigate the role of estrogens in the short-term memory processing of basic emotional face expressions, by means of event-related potentials (ERPs) and a recognition memory (RM) behavioral task. Healthy young women were divided into a periovulatory (PO) group, characterized by high levels of estrogens and low levels of progesterone, and an early follicular (EF) group, characterized by low levels of both estrogens and progesterone. During the RM task, all subjects viewed images of faces expressing six basic emotions (happiness, anger, disgust, sadness, surprise, fear) and one neutral expression while their electrophysiological activity was recorded. We considered P300 components, amplitude, and latency in response to each stimulus. Soon after the presentation of each stimulus face, a target image was presented, consisting of two faces, one of which was the same, while the other was a chimerical face, obtained by mixing the upper or lower halves of the faces of the stimulus image with a different emotion. The subjects had to choose between the two alternatives, and the reaction time (RT) and accuracy of response (RM errors) were measured. The main findings of this study showed that P300 amplitudes are significantly higher in response to the expressions of happiness, but significantly lower for sadness, in PO compared to EF. The P300 data are consistent with performance in the RM task and with the measures of RT. The interest in the emotion of happiness, unlike sadness, during the PO phase may reflect the evolutionary significance of female sex hormones linked to mating behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonella Gasbarri
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy.,Fondazione Santa Lucia, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Mario D'Amico
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Benedetto Arnone
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Carla Iorio
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Francesca Pacitti
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Sabatino Ciotti
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Paola Iorio
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Assunta Pompili
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy.,Fondazione Santa Lucia, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
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Liu Z, Wang Y, Qin W, Chen D, Feng Y, Su H, Shao W, Zhou B, Bu X. Raloxifene alleviates amyloid-β-induced cytotoxicity in HT22 neuronal cells via inhibiting oligomeric and fibrillar species formation. J Biochem Mol Toxicol 2019; 33:e22395. [PMID: 31583774 DOI: 10.1002/jbt.22395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2019] [Revised: 07/01/2019] [Accepted: 09/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Raloxifene, a selective estrogen receptor modulator, displays benefits for Alzheimer's disease (AD) prevention in postmenopausal women as hormonal changes during menopause have the potential to influence AD pathogenesis, but the underlying mechanism of its neuroprotection is not entirely clear. In this study, the effects of raloxifene on amyloid-β (Aβ) amyloidogenesis were evaluated. The results demonstrated that raloxifene inhibits Aβ42 aggregation and destabilizes preformed Aβ42 fibrils through directly interacting with the N-terminus and middle domains of Aβ42 peptides. Consequently, raloxifene not only reduces direct toxicity of Aβ42 in HT22 neuronal cells, but also suppresses expressions of tumor necrosis factor-α and transforming growth factor-β induced by Aβ42 peptides, and then alleviates microglia-mediated indirect toxicity of Aβ42 to HT22 neuronal cells. Our results suggested an alternative possible explanation for the neuroprotective activity of raloxifene in AD prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziyi Liu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Youqiao Wang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wenjing Qin
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Daoyuan Chen
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yanqiao Feng
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hui Su
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Weiyan Shao
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Binhua Zhou
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xianzhang Bu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
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Ansdell P, Brownstein CG, Škarabot J, Hicks KM, Simoes DCM, Thomas K, Howatson G, Hunter SK, Goodall S. Menstrual cycle-associated modulations in neuromuscular function and fatigability of the knee extensors in eumenorrheic women. J Appl Physiol (1985) 2019; 126:1701-1712. [DOI: 10.1152/japplphysiol.01041.2018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Sex hormone concentrations of eumenorrheic women typically fluctuate across the menstrual cycle and can affect neural function such that estrogen has neuroexcitatory effects, and progesterone induces inhibition. However, the effects of these changes on corticospinal and intracortical circuitry and the motor performance of the knee extensors are unknown. The present two-part investigation aimed to 1) determine the measurement error of an exercise task, transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS)-, and motor nerve stimulation (MNS)-derived responses in women ingesting a monophasic oral contraceptive pill (hormonally-constant) and 2) investigate whether these measures were modulated by menstrual cycle phase (MCP), by examining them before and after an intermittent isometric fatiguing task (60% of maximal voluntary contraction, MVC) with the knee extensors until task failure in eumenorrheic women on days 2, 14, and 21 of the menstrual cycle. The repeatability of neuromuscular measures at baseline and fatigability ranged between moderate and excellent in women taking the oral contraceptive pill. MVC was not affected by MCP ( P = 0.790). Voluntary activation (MNS and TMS) peaked on day 14 ( P = 0.007 and 0.008, respectively). Whereas corticospinal excitability was unchanged, short-interval intracortical inhibition was greatest on day 21 compared with days 14 and 2 ( P < 0.001). Additionally, time to task failure was longer on day 21 than on both days 14 and 2 (24 and 36%, respectively, P = 0.030). The observed changes were larger than the associated measurement errors. These data demonstrate that neuromuscular function and fatigability of the knee extensors vary across the menstrual cycle and may influence exercise performance involving locomotor muscles. NEW & NOTEWORTHY The present two-part study first demonstrated the repeatability of transcranial magnetic stimulation- and electrical motor nerve stimulation-evoked variables in a hormonally constant female population. Subsequently, it was demonstrated that the eumenorrheic menstrual cycle affects neuromuscular function. Changing concentrations of neuroactive hormones corresponded to greater voluntary activation on day 14, greater intracortical inhibition on day 21, and lowest fatigability on day 21. These alterations of knee extensor neuromuscular function have implications for locomotor activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Ansdell
- Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Callum G. Brownstein
- Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
- Université Lyon, UJM-Saint-Etienne, Inter-university Laboratory of Human Movement Biology, Saint-Etienne, France
| | - Jakob Škarabot
- Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Kirsty M. Hicks
- Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Davina C. M. Simoes
- Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Kevin Thomas
- Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Glyn Howatson
- Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
- Water Research Group, School of Environmental Sciences and Development, Northwest University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - Sandra K. Hunter
- Exercise Science Program, Department of Physical Therapy, Marquette University, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
| | - Stuart Goodall
- Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
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Del Río JP, Alliende MI, Molina N, Serrano FG, Molina S, Vigil P. Steroid Hormones and Their Action in Women's Brains: The Importance of Hormonal Balance. Front Public Health 2018; 6:141. [PMID: 29876339 PMCID: PMC5974145 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2018.00141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2017] [Accepted: 04/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Sex hormones significantly impact women's lives. Throughout the different stages of life, from menarche to menopause and all stages in between, women experience dramatic fluctuations in the levels of progesterone and estradiol, among other hormones. These fluctuations affect the body as a whole, including the central nervous system (CNS). In the CNS, sex hormones act via steroid receptors. They also have an effect on different neurotransmitters such as GABA, serotonin, dopamine, and glutamate. Additionally, studies show that sex hormones and their metabolites influence brain areas that regulate mood, behavior, and cognitive abilities. This review emphasizes the benefits a proper hormonal balance during the different stages of life has in the CNS. To achieve this goal, it is essential that hormone levels are evaluated considering a woman's age and ovulatory status, so that a correct diagnosis and treatment can be made. Knowledge of steroid hormone activity in the brain will give women and health providers an important tool for improving their health and well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Pilar Vigil
- Reproductive Health Research InstituteSantiago, Chile
- Vicerrectoría de ComunicacionesPontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
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Zsido RG, Villringer A, Sacher J. Using positron emission tomography to investigate hormone-mediated neurochemical changes across the female lifespan: implications for depression. Int Rev Psychiatry 2017; 29:580-596. [PMID: 29199875 DOI: 10.1080/09540261.2017.1397607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Ovarian hormones, particularly oestrogen and progesterone, undergo major fluctuations across the female lifespan. These hormone transition periods, such as the transition from pregnancy to postpartum, as well as the transition into menopause (perimenopause), are also known to be times of elevated susceptibility to depression. This study reviews how these transition periods likely influence neurochemical changes in the brain that result in disease vulnerability. While there are known associations between oestrogen/progesterone and different monoaminergic systems, the interactions and their potential implications for mood disorders are relatively unknown. Positron Emission Tomography (PET) allows for the in-vivo quantification of such neurochemical changes, and, thus, can provide valuable insight into how both subtle and dramatic shifts in hormones contribute to the elevated rates of depression during pre-menstrual, post-partum, and perimenopausal periods in a woman's life. As one better understands how to address the challenges of PET studies involving highly vulnerable populations, such as women who have recently given birth, one will gain the insight necessary to design and individualize treatment and therapy. Understanding the precise time-line in younger women when dramatic fluctuations in the hormonal milieu may contribute to brain changes may present a powerful opportunity to intervene before a vulnerable state develops into a diseased state in later life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel G Zsido
- a Emotion NeuroimaGinG(EGG)-Lab , Max Planck Institute for Cognitive and Brain Sciences , Leipzig , Germany.,b Department of Neurology , Max Planck Institute for Cognitive and Brain Sciences , Leipzig , Germany
| | - Arno Villringer
- b Department of Neurology , Max Planck Institute for Cognitive and Brain Sciences , Leipzig , Germany.,c Clinic for Cognitive Neurology , University of Leipzig , Leipzig , Germany
| | - Julia Sacher
- a Emotion NeuroimaGinG(EGG)-Lab , Max Planck Institute for Cognitive and Brain Sciences , Leipzig , Germany.,b Department of Neurology , Max Planck Institute for Cognitive and Brain Sciences , Leipzig , Germany.,c Clinic for Cognitive Neurology , University of Leipzig , Leipzig , Germany
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11
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Jing FC, Zhang J, Feng C, Nian YY, Wang JH, Hu H, Yang BD, Sun XM, Zheng JY, Yin XR. Potential rat model of anxiety-like gastric hypersensitivity induced by sequential stress. World J Gastroenterol 2017; 23:7594-7608. [PMID: 29204059 PMCID: PMC5698252 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v23.i42.7594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2017] [Revised: 10/04/2017] [Accepted: 10/18/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM To establish a rat model of anxiety-like gastric hypersensitivity (GHS) of functional dyspepsia (FD) induced by novel sequential stress.
METHODS Animal pups were divided into two groups from postnatal day 2: controls and the sequential-stress-treated. The sequential-stress-treated group received maternal separation and acute gastric irritation early in life and restraint stress in adulthood; controls were reared undisturbed with their mothers. Rats in both groups were followed to adulthood (8 wk) at which point the anxiety-like behaviors and visceromotor responses to gastric distention (20-100 mmHg) and gastric emptying were tested. Meanwhile, alterations in several anxiety-related brain-stomach modulators including 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT), γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA), brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and nesfatin-1 in the rat hippocampus, plasma and gastric fundus and the 5-HT1A receptor (5-HT1AR) in the hippocampal CA1 subfield and the mucosa of the gastric fundus were examined.
RESULTS Sequential-stress-treated rats simultaneously demonstrated anxiety-like behaviors and GHS in dose-dependent manner compared with the control group. Although rats in both groups consumed similar amount of solid food, the rate of gastric emptying was lower in the sequential-stress-treated rats than in the control group. Sequential stress significantly decreased the levels of 5-HT (51.91 ± 1.88 vs 104.21 ± 2.88, P < 0.01), GABA (2.38 ± 0.16 vs 5.01 ± 0.13, P < 0.01) and BDNF (304.40 ± 10.16 vs 698.17 ± 27.91, P < 0.01) in the hippocampus but increased the content of nesfatin-1 (1961.38 ± 56.89 vs 1007.50 ± 33.05, P < 0.01) in the same site; significantly decreased the levels of 5-HT (47.82 ± 2.29 vs 89.45 ± 2.61, P < 0.01) and BDNF (257.05 ± 12.89 vs 536.71 ± 20.73, P < 0.01) in the plasma but increased the content of nesfatin-1 in it (1391.75 ± 42.77 vs 737.88 ± 33.15, P < 0.01); significantly decreased the levels of 5-HT (41.15 ± 1.81 vs 89.17 ± 2.31, P < 0.01) and BDNF (226.49 ± 12.10 vs 551.36 ± 16.47, P < 0.01) in the gastric fundus but increased the content of nesfatin-1 in the same site (1534.75 ± 38.52 vs 819.63 ± 38.04, P < 0.01). The expressions of 5-HT1AR in the hippocampal CA1 subfield and the mucosa of the gastric fundus were down-regulated measured by IHC (Optical Density value: Hippocampus 15253.50 ± 760.35 vs 21149.75 ± 834.13; gastric fundus 15865.25 ± 521.24 vs 23865.75 ± 1868.60; P < 0.05, respectively) and WB (0.38 ± 0.01 vs 0.57 ± 0.03, P < 0.01) (n = 8 in each group).
CONCLUSION Sequential stress could induce a potential rat model of anxiety-like GHS of FD, which could be used to research the mechanisms of this intractable disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fu-Chun Jing
- Department of Gastroenterology, Second Hospital Affiliated to the Medical School of Xi’an Jiao Tong University, Xi’an 710004, Shaanxi Province, China
- Department of Digestive Diseases, Baoji People’s Hospital Affiliated to the Medical School of Yan’an University, Baoji 721000, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Jun Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Second Hospital Affiliated to the Medical School of Xi’an Jiao Tong University, Xi’an 710004, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Chen Feng
- Department of Gastroenterology, Second Hospital Affiliated to the Medical School of Xi’an Jiao Tong University, Xi’an 710004, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Yuan-Yuan Nian
- Department of Gastroenterology, Second Hospital Affiliated to the Medical School of Xi’an Jiao Tong University, Xi’an 710004, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Jin-Hai Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Second Hospital Affiliated to the Medical School of Xi’an Jiao Tong University, Xi’an 710004, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Hao Hu
- Department of Pharmacology, Health Science Center, Xi’an Jiao Tong University, Xi’an 710061, Shaanxi Province, China
- Basic Medical Experiment Teaching Center, Health Science Center, Xi’an Jiao Tong University, Xi’an 710061, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Bao-De Yang
- Department of Pharmacology, Health Science Center, Xi’an Jiao Tong University, Xi’an 710061, Shaanxi Province, China
- Basic Medical Experiment Teaching Center, Health Science Center, Xi’an Jiao Tong University, Xi’an 710061, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Xiao-Ming Sun
- Department of Pharmacology, Health Science Center, Xi’an Jiao Tong University, Xi’an 710061, Shaanxi Province, China
- Basic Medical Experiment Teaching Center, Health Science Center, Xi’an Jiao Tong University, Xi’an 710061, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Jian-Yun Zheng
- Department of Pathology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Medical University, Xi’an 710077, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Xiao-Ran Yin
- Department of Gastroenterology, Second Hospital Affiliated to the Medical School of Xi’an Jiao Tong University, Xi’an 710004, Shaanxi Province, China
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12
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Matsumoto C, Yamada C, Sadakane C, Nahata M, Hattori T, Takeda H. Psychological stress in aged female mice causes acute hypophagia independent of central serotonin 2C receptor activation. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0187937. [PMID: 29125864 PMCID: PMC5695286 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0187937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2017] [Accepted: 10/27/2017] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Sex differences exist in the activation of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis following exposure to stress, and the stress response is further affected by aging. This study was conducted to elucidate the mechanism of hypophagia in aged female mice exposed to stress. Immediately after a stress load, aged female mice exhibited acute hypophagia and a rise in plasma corticosterone levels. The administration of a serotonin 2C receptor (5-HT2CR) antagonist suppressed plasma corticosterone but did not affect the reduction in food intake. In contrast, an endogenous ghrelin enhancer, rikkunshito (RKT), significantly inhibited the reduction in food intake. An increase in peripheral acylated ghrelin levels during fasting, which occurs in young mice, was not observed in aged female mice. Moreover, in these mice, significantly increased levels of ghrelin and gastric preproghrelin mRNA expression were observed in the fed status. Moreover, plasma ghrelin levels were elevated by RKT and not by the 5-HT2CR antagonist. In female mice, the hypothalamic non-edited (INI) and partially edited mRNA 5-HT2CR isoforms (VNV, VNI, VSV or VSI) decreased with age, while in male mice, the editing isoform was unchanged by aging or stress. Estrogen receptor α (ERα)-positive cell counts in the arcuate nucleus of young male mice exposed to stress and control aged male mice were increased compared with those in young control mice. In aged male mice exposed to stress, the number of ERα-expressing cells in the paraventricular nucleus were significantly increased compared with those in aged control mice; in female mice, there was no increase in the number of ERα-positive cells. Hypophagia in aged female mice exposed to stress may be independent of 5-HT2CR activation. It seems likely that the mechanisms may be caused by sex dependent, differential regulation in 5-HT2CR mRNA expression, peripheral acylated ghrelin secretion and/or hypothalamic ERα expression.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Chihiro Yamada
- Tsumura Research Laboratories, Tsumura & Co., Ibaraki, Japan
| | | | - Miwa Nahata
- Tsumura Research Laboratories, Tsumura & Co., Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Tomohisa Hattori
- Tsumura Research Laboratories, Tsumura & Co., Ibaraki, Japan
- * E-mail:
| | - Hiroshi Takeda
- Pathophysiology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan
- Hokkaido University Hospital Gastroenterological Medicine, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan
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13
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Wang W, Cui G, Jin B, Wang K, Chen X, Sun Y, Qin L, Bai W. Estradiol Valerate and Remifemin ameliorate ovariectomy-induced decrease in a serotonin dorsal raphe-preoptic hypothalamus pathway in rats. Ann Anat 2016; 208:31-39. [PMID: 27562857 DOI: 10.1016/j.aanat.2016.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2016] [Revised: 07/12/2016] [Accepted: 08/03/2016] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Perimenopausal syndromes begin as ovarian function ceases and the most common symptoms are hot flushes. Data indicate that the projections of serotonin to hypothalamus may be involved in the mechanism of hot flushes. Therefore, the aim of this study is to investigate the potential role of the serotonin dorsal raphe-preoptic hypothalamus pathway for hot flushes in an animal model of menopause. We determined the changes in serotonin expression in the dorsal raphe (DR) and preoptic anterior hypothalamus (POAH) in ovariectomized rats. We also explored the therapeutical effects of estradiol valerate and Remifemin in this model. Eighty female Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly assigned to sham-operated (SHAM) group, ovariectomy (OVX) group with vehicle, ovariectomy with estradiol valerate treatment (OVX+E) group and ovariectomy with Remifemin (OVX+ICR) group. Serotonin expression was evaluated in the DR and POAH using immunofluorescence and quantified in the DR using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Apoptosis was analyzed in the DR by TUNEL assay. The number of serotonin immunoreactive neurons and the level of serotonin expression in the DR decreased significantly following OVX compared to the SHAM group. No TUNEL-positive cells were detected in the DR in any group. In addition, following OVX, the number of serotonin-positive fibers decreased significantly in the ventromedial preoptic nucleus (VMPO), especially in the ventrolateral preoptic nucleus (VLPO). Treatment with either estradiol or Remifemin for 4 weeks countered the OVX-induced decreases in serotonin levels in both the DR and the hypothalamus, with levels in the treated rats similar to those in the SHAM group. A fluorescently labeled retrograde tracer was injected into the VLPO at the 4-week time point. A significantly lower percentage of serotonin with CTB double-labeled neurons in CTB-labeled neurons was demonstrated after ovariectomy, and both estradiol and Remifemin countered this OVX-induced decrease. We conclude that serotonin pathway is changed after ovariectomy, including the serotonin synthesis in DR and serotonin fibers in PO/AH, both E and Remifemin have an equivalent therapeutic effect on it.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenjuan Wang
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Guangxia Cui
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China; Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Civil Aviation General Hospital, No. 1 Gaojingjia Street, Chaoyang District, Beijing, China
| | - Biao Jin
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Ke Wang
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Xing Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yu Sun
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Beijing Shijitan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100038, China
| | - Lihua Qin
- Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China.
| | - Wenpei Bai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Beijing Shijitan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100038, China; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China.
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14
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Role of Serotonin Transporter Changes in Depressive Responses to Sex-Steroid Hormone Manipulation: A Positron Emission Tomography Study. Biol Psychiatry 2015; 78:534-43. [PMID: 26004162 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2015.04.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2015] [Revised: 03/21/2015] [Accepted: 04/17/2015] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND An adverse response to acute and pronounced changes in sex-hormone levels during, for example, the perimenopausal or postpartum period appears to heighten risk for major depression in women. The underlying risk mechanisms remain elusive but may include transiently compromised serotonergic brain signaling. Here, we modeled a biphasic ovarian sex hormone fluctuation using a gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist (GnRHa) and evaluated if emergence of depressive symptoms was associated with change in cerebral serotonin transporter (SERT) binding following intervention. METHODS A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study included 63 healthy female volunteers (mean age 24.3 ± 4.9 years) with regular menstrual cycles between 23 and 35 days. Participants were randomized to active (goserelin [GnRHa] 3.6 mg implant) or placebo intervention. Sixty women completed follow-up and entered the analyses. Primary outcome measures were changes from baseline in depressive symptoms assessed on the 17-item Hamilton Depression Rating Scale and SERT binding as imaged by [(11)C]DASB positron emission tomography. Outcome measures were acquired at baseline in the follicular phase (cycle day 6.6 ± 2.2) and at follow-up (16.2 ± 2.6 days after intervention start). RESULTS Sex hormone manipulation with GnRHa significantly triggered subclinical depressive symptoms within-group (p = .003) and relative to placebo (p = .02), which were positively associated with net decreases in estradiol levels (p = .02) from baseline within the GnRHa group. Depressive symptoms were associated with increases in neocortical SERT binding in the GnRHa group relative to placebo (p = .003). CONCLUSIONS Our data imply both serotonergic signaling and estradiol in the mechanisms by which sex-steroid hormone fluctuations provoke depressive symptoms and thus provide a rationale for future preventive strategies in high-risk groups.
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15
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Yamada C, Sadakane C, Nahata M, Saegusa Y, Nakagawa K, Okubo N, Ohnishi S, Hattori T, Takeda H. Serotonin 2C receptor contributes to gender differences in stress-induced hypophagia in aged mice. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2015; 55:81-93. [PMID: 25732068 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2015.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2014] [Revised: 01/21/2015] [Accepted: 02/10/2015] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
The combination of depression and anorexia may influence morbidity and progressive physical disability in the elderly. Gender differences exist in hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis activation following stress exposure. The objective of this study was to investigate gender differences in feeding behavior under novelty stress in aged mice. Food intake measurement, immunohistochemical assessment, and mRNA expression analysis were conducted to investigate the role of serotonin 2C receptor (5-HT(2C)R) and its relationship with ghrelin in stress-induced suppression of feeding behavior in aged mice. After exposure to novelty stress, a 21-fold increase in plasma corticosterone and remarkable suppression of food intake were observed in aged male mice. Furthermore, a 5-HT(2C)R agonist suppressed food intake in aged male mice. Novelty stress induced a 7-fold increase in 5-HT(2C)R and c-Fos co-expressing cells in the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus in aged male mice but caused no change in aged female mice. Plasma acylated ghrelin levels decreased in stressed aged male mice and administration of the 5-HT(2C)R antagonist inhibited this decrease. The 5-HT(2C)R antagonist also reversed the suppression of food intake in estrogen receptor α agonist-treated aged male mice. Therefore, conspicuously suppressed feeding behavior in novelty stress-exposed aged male mice may be mediated by 5-HT(2C)R hypersensitivity, leading to hypoghrelinemia. The hypersensitivity may partly be due to estrogen receptor activation in aged male mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chihiro Yamada
- Tsumura Research Laboratories, Tsumura & Co., 3586 Yoshiwara, Ami-machi, Inashiki-gun, Ibaraki 300-1192, Japan
| | - Chiharu Sadakane
- Tsumura Research Laboratories, Tsumura & Co., 3586 Yoshiwara, Ami-machi, Inashiki-gun, Ibaraki 300-1192, Japan
| | - Miwa Nahata
- Tsumura Research Laboratories, Tsumura & Co., 3586 Yoshiwara, Ami-machi, Inashiki-gun, Ibaraki 300-1192, Japan
| | - Yayoi Saegusa
- Tsumura Research Laboratories, Tsumura & Co., 3586 Yoshiwara, Ami-machi, Inashiki-gun, Ibaraki 300-1192, Japan
| | - Koji Nakagawa
- Pathophysiology and Therapeutics, Hokkaido University Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, N12 W6, Kita-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido 060-0812, Japan
| | - Naoto Okubo
- Pathophysiology and Therapeutics, Hokkaido University Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, N12 W6, Kita-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido 060-0812, Japan
| | - Shunsuke Ohnishi
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, N15, W7, Kita-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido 060-8638, Japan
| | - Tomohisa Hattori
- Tsumura Research Laboratories, Tsumura & Co., 3586 Yoshiwara, Ami-machi, Inashiki-gun, Ibaraki 300-1192, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Takeda
- Pathophysiology and Therapeutics, Hokkaido University Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, N12 W6, Kita-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido 060-0812, Japan; Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, N15, W7, Kita-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido 060-8638, Japan.
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16
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Barth C, Villringer A, Sacher J. Sex hormones affect neurotransmitters and shape the adult female brain during hormonal transition periods. Front Neurosci 2015; 9:37. [PMID: 25750611 PMCID: PMC4335177 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2015.00037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 384] [Impact Index Per Article: 42.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2014] [Accepted: 01/26/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Sex hormones have been implicated in neurite outgrowth, synaptogenesis, dendritic branching, myelination and other important mechanisms of neural plasticity. Here we review the evidence from animal experiments and human studies reporting interactions between sex hormones and the dominant neurotransmitters, such as serotonin, dopamine, GABA and glutamate. We provide an overview of accumulating data during physiological and pathological conditions and discuss currently conceptualized theories on how sex hormones potentially trigger neuroplasticity changes through these four neurochemical systems. Many brain regions have been demonstrated to express high densities for estrogen- and progesterone receptors, such as the amygdala, the hypothalamus, and the hippocampus. As the hippocampus is of particular relevance in the context of mediating structural plasticity in the adult brain, we put particular emphasis on what evidence could be gathered thus far that links differences in behavior, neurochemical patterns and hippocampal structure to a changing hormonal environment. Finally, we discuss how physiologically occurring hormonal transition periods in humans can be used to model how changes in sex hormones influence functional connectivity, neurotransmission and brain structure in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Barth
- Department of Neurology, Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences Leipzig, Germany
| | - Arno Villringer
- Department of Neurology, Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences Leipzig, Germany ; Clinic of Cognitive Neurology, University of Leipzig Leipzig, Germany ; Leipzig Research Center for Civilization Diseases, University of Leipzig Leipzig, Germany ; Integrated Research and Treatment Center Adiposity Diseases, University of Leipzig Leipzig, Germany ; Berlin School of Mind and Brain, Mind and Brain Institute Berlin, Germany
| | - Julia Sacher
- Department of Neurology, Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences Leipzig, Germany ; Clinic of Cognitive Neurology, University of Leipzig Leipzig, Germany
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17
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Citraro R, Gallelli L, Leo A, De Fazio P, Gallelli P, Russo E, De Sarro G. Effects of chronic sodium alendronate on depression and anxiety in a menopausal experimental model. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2014; 129:65-71. [PMID: 25542587 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2014.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2014] [Revised: 12/10/2014] [Accepted: 12/17/2014] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE During menopause, lower levels of estrogen may induce bone resorption as well as anxiety and depression. Bisphosphonates represent the first choice in the treatment of osteoporosis and no data are available concerning their effects on comorbid behavior alterations. Therefore, in this study, we evaluated the effects of chronic alendronate (1 mg/kg/day) on depression and anxiety in an experimental animal model of menopause. METHODS Female Wistar rats were ovariectomized or sham operated at 6-7 months of age. Two weeks after surgery, rats were randomized into four treatment (24 consecutive weeks) groups: (1) vehicle-treated SHAM group, (2) alendronate-treated SHAM group, (3) vehicle-treated ovariectomized group, and (4) alendronate-treated ovariectomized group. After treatment, we evaluated both depressive- and anxiety-like behavior through forced swimming test (FST) and open-field test (OF). Finally, the inverted screen test was used to assess the incapacitating effects of ovariectomy in rats. RESULTS We documented a significant and time-related increase in immobility times and in anxiety-like behavior in rats with ovariectomy in comparison to control sham group. Alendronate at 3 months, but not at 6 months, significantly decreased both immobility time and anxiety levels, but it significantly increased motor performance. Using the Pearson's test, we documented a significant correlation between behavior and motor performance. CONCLUSION Despite the apparent effects of alendronate on animal behavior, in our experiments, such effects seem to be mediated by an increase in motor performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rita Citraro
- Science of Health Department, University of Catanzaro, Catanzaro 88100, Italy.
| | - Luca Gallelli
- Science of Health Department, University of Catanzaro, Catanzaro 88100, Italy.
| | - Antonio Leo
- Science of Health Department, University of Catanzaro, Catanzaro 88100, Italy.
| | - Pasquale De Fazio
- Science of Health Department, University of Catanzaro, Catanzaro 88100, Italy.
| | - Patrizia Gallelli
- Science of Health Department, University of Catanzaro, Catanzaro 88100, Italy.
| | - Emilio Russo
- Science of Health Department, University of Catanzaro, Catanzaro 88100, Italy.
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18
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Comasco E, Frokjaer VG, Sundström-Poromaa I. Functional and molecular neuroimaging of menopause and hormone replacement therapy. Front Neurosci 2014; 8:388. [PMID: 25538545 PMCID: PMC4259109 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2014.00388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2014] [Accepted: 11/12/2014] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The level of gonadal hormones to which the female brain is exposed considerably changes across the menopausal transition, which in turn, is likely to be of great relevance for neurodegenerative diseases and psychiatric disorders. However, the neurobiological consequences of these hormone fluctuations and of hormone replacement therapy in the menopause have only begun to be understood. The present review summarizes the findings of thirty-five studies of human brain function, including functional magnetic resonance imaging, positron and single-photon computed emission tomography studies, in peri- and postmenopausal women treated with estrogen, or estrogen-progestagen replacement therapy. Seven studies using gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist intervention as a model of hormonal withdrawal are also included. Cognitive paradigms are employed by the majority of studies evaluating the effect of unopposed estrogen or estrogen-progestagen treatment on peri- and postmenopausal women's brain. In randomized-controlled trials, estrogen treatment enhances activation of fronto-cingulate regions during cognitive functioning, though in many cases no difference in cognitive performance was present. Progestagens seems to counteract the effects of estrogens. Findings on cognitive functioning during acute ovarian hormone withdrawal suggest a decrease in activation of the left inferior frontal gyrus, thus essentially corroborating the findings in postmenopausal women. Studies of the cholinergic and serotonergic systems indicate these systems as biological mediators of hormonal influences on the brain. More, hormonal replacement appears to increase cerebral blood flow in several cortical regions. On the other hand, studies on emotion processing in postmenopausal women are lacking. These results call for well-powered randomized-controlled multi-modal prospective neuroimaging studies as well as investigation on the related molecular mechanisms of effects of menopausal hormonal variations on the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erika Comasco
- Department of Neuroscience, Uppsala University Uppsala, Sweden ; Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Vibe G Frokjaer
- Department of Neurology, Center for Integrated Molecular Brain Imaging and Neurobiology Research Unit 6931, Copenhagen University Hospital Copenhagen, Denmark
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19
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Thomas J, Météreau E, Déchaud H, Pugeat M, Dreher JC. Hormonal treatment increases the response of the reward system at the menopause transition: a counterbalanced randomized placebo-controlled fMRI study. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2014; 50:167-80. [PMID: 25222702 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2014.08.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2014] [Revised: 08/25/2014] [Accepted: 08/25/2014] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Preclinical research using rodent models demonstrated that estrogens play neuroprotective effects if they are administered during a critical period near the time of cessation of ovarian function. In women, a number of controversial epidemiological studies reported that a neuroprotective effect of estradiol may be obtained on cognition and mood-related disorders if hormone therapy (HT) begins early at the beginning of menopause. Yet, little is known about the modulatory effects of early HT administration on brain activation near menopause. Here, we investigated whether HT, initiated early during the menopause transition, increases the response of the reward system, a key brain circuit involved in motivation and hedonic behavior. We used fMRI and a counterbalanced, double-blind, randomized and crossover placebo-controlled design to investigate whether sequential 17β-estradiol plus oral progesterone modulate reward-related brain activity. Each woman was scanned twice while presented with images of slot machines, once after receiving HT and once under placebo. The fMRI results demonstrate that HT, relative to placebo, increased the response of the striatum and ventromedial prefrontal cortex, two areas that have been shown to be respectively involved during reward anticipation and at the time of reward delivery. Our neuroimaging results bridge the gap between animal studies and human epidemiological studies of HT on cognition. These findings establish a neurobiological foundation for understanding the neurofunctional impact of early HT initiation on reward processing at the menopause transition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Thomas
- Reward and Decision Making' Group, Cognitive Neuroscience Center, CNRS, UMR 5229, Lyon1 University, 67 Bd Pinel, 69675 Bron, France
| | - Elise Météreau
- Reward and Decision Making' Group, Cognitive Neuroscience Center, CNRS, UMR 5229, Lyon1 University, 67 Bd Pinel, 69675 Bron, France
| | - Henri Déchaud
- INSERM, Unit 863 IFR6, fédération d'endocrinologie, groupement hospitalier Est, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon 1 University, 69 Bd Pinel, 69675 Bron, France
| | - Michel Pugeat
- INSERM, Unit 863 IFR6, fédération d'endocrinologie, groupement hospitalier Est, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon 1 University, 69 Bd Pinel, 69675 Bron, France
| | - Jean-Claude Dreher
- Reward and Decision Making' Group, Cognitive Neuroscience Center, CNRS, UMR 5229, Lyon1 University, 67 Bd Pinel, 69675 Bron, France.
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20
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Borrow AP, Cameron NM. Estrogenic mediation of serotonergic and neurotrophic systems: implications for female mood disorders. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2014; 54:13-25. [PMID: 24865152 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2014.05.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2014] [Revised: 05/13/2014] [Accepted: 05/14/2014] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Clinical research has demonstrated a significant sex difference in the occurrence of depressive disorders. Beginning at pubertal onset, women report a higher incidence of depression than men. Women are also vulnerable to the development of depressive disorders such as premenstrual dysphoric disorder, postpartum depression, and perimenopausal depression. These disorders are associated with reproductive stages involving changes in gonadal hormone levels. Specifically, female depression and female affective behaviors are influenced by estradiol levels. This review argues two major mechanisms by which estrogens influence depression and depressive-like behavior: through interactions with neurotrophic factors and through an influence on the serotonergic system. In particular, estradiol increases brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels within the brain, and alters serotonergic expression in a receptor subtype-specific manner. We will take a regional approach, examining these effects of estrogens in the major brain areas implicated in depression. Finally, we will discuss the gaps in our current knowledge of the effects of estrogens on female depression, and the potential utility for estrogen receptor modulators in treatment for this disorder.
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21
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Kranz GS, Rami-Mark C, Kaufmann U, Baldinger P, Hahn A, Höflich A, Savli M, Stein P, Wadsak W, Mitterhauser M, Winkler D, Lanzenberger R, Kasper S. Effects of hormone replacement therapy on cerebral serotonin-1A receptor binding in postmenopausal women examined with [carbonyl-¹¹C]WAY-100635. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2014; 45:1-10. [PMID: 24845171 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2014.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2014] [Revised: 02/18/2014] [Accepted: 03/11/2014] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Preclinical research points to a strong modulatory influence of gonadal hormones on the serotonin system. However, human data corroborating this association remains scarce. The aim of this study was to examine the effects of hormone replacement therapy on 5-HT₁A receptor binding in postmenopausal women using positron emission tomography (PET) and the radioligand [carbonyl-(11)C]WAY-100635. In this randomized, double-blind, longitudinal study, 30 postmenopausal women underwent treatment with either a combination of oral 17β-estradiol valerate and micronized progesterone (group 1, n=10), oral 17β-estradiol valerate (group 2, n=10), or placebo (group 3, n=10). Two PET measurements were performed, one the day before treatment start and the second after at least eight weeks of treatment. Plasma levels of estradiol (E₂), progesterone (P₄), sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS), follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) were collected prior to PET measurements. As expected, hormone replacement therapy led to a significant increase in E₂ and P4 plasma levels in group 1 and to a significant increase in E₂ levels in group 2. The 5-HT₁A receptor binding did not change significantly after estrogen, combined estrogen/progesterone treatment or placebo in any of the investigated brain regions. There were no significant correlations between changes in E₂ or P4 values and changes in 5-HT₁A receptor binding. Although we were not able to confirm effects of gonadal hormone treatment on 5-HT₁A receptor binding, our data do not preclude associations between sex steroid levels and serotonin, the neurotransmitter implicated most strongly in the pathogenesis of affective and anxiety disorders. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT00755963.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georg S Kranz
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical University of Vienna, Austria(1)
| | - Christina Rami-Mark
- Department of Biomedical Imaging and Image-guided Therapy, Division of Nuclear Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Austria
| | - Ulrike Kaufmann
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of Vienna, Austria
| | - Pia Baldinger
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical University of Vienna, Austria(1)
| | - Andreas Hahn
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical University of Vienna, Austria(1)
| | - Anna Höflich
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical University of Vienna, Austria(1)
| | - Markus Savli
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical University of Vienna, Austria(1)
| | - Patrycja Stein
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical University of Vienna, Austria(1)
| | - Wolfgang Wadsak
- Department of Biomedical Imaging and Image-guided Therapy, Division of Nuclear Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Austria
| | - Markus Mitterhauser
- Department of Biomedical Imaging and Image-guided Therapy, Division of Nuclear Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Austria
| | - Dietmar Winkler
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical University of Vienna, Austria(1)
| | - Rupert Lanzenberger
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical University of Vienna, Austria(1).
| | - Siegfried Kasper
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical University of Vienna, Austria(1)
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Fischer B, Gleason C, Asthana S. Effects of hormone therapy on cognition and mood. Fertil Steril 2014; 101:898-904. [PMID: 24680649 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2014.02.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2014] [Revised: 02/10/2014] [Accepted: 02/12/2014] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Results of the Women's Health Initiative (WHI) and Women's Health Initiative Memory Study (WHIMS) suggested that hormone therapy (HT) may be detrimental to cognitive health. This article reviews clinical studies that address issues relevant to those results. DESIGN Literature review. INTERVENTION(S) A search of Pubmed and Web of Science was conducted using the search terms HT and cognition, HT and mood. Clinical and observational studies were selected if they were published after the year 2000. Theories of HT mechanisms of action, pharmacology, biology, and observational and clinical trials are discussed. RESULT(S) Although observational and clinical trials show conflicting findings, methodologic considerations must be acknowledged. HT formulation and dose, route of administration, timing of initiation, length of treatment, and health of participants all contribute to inconsistencies in results. Transdermal estradiol and micronized progesterone administered at time of menopause are generally associated with cognitive and affective benefit. CONCLUSION(S) At the present time, results from existing studies are equivocal regarding the benefits of HT on cognition and affect. Future studies, such as the Kronos Early Estrogen Prevention Study (KEEPS), should address methodologic inconsistencies to provide clearer answers to this important question.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Fischer
- Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center, William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans Affairs Hospital, Madison, Wisconsin.
| | - Carey Gleason
- Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center, William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans Affairs Hospital, Madison, Wisconsin; Wisconsin Alzheimer's Disease Research Center (ADRC), Madison, Wisconsin; Division of Geriatrics and Gerontology, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Sanjay Asthana
- Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center, William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans Affairs Hospital, Madison, Wisconsin; Wisconsin Alzheimer's Disease Research Center (ADRC), Madison, Wisconsin; Division of Geriatrics and Gerontology, School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin
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Buwalda B, Schagen SB. Is basic research providing answers if adjuvant anti-estrogen treatment of breast cancer can induce cognitive impairment? Life Sci 2013; 93:581-8. [PMID: 23353876 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2012.12.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2012] [Revised: 11/27/2012] [Accepted: 12/21/2012] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Adjuvant treatment of cancer by chemotherapy is associated with cognitive impairment in some cancer survivors. Breast cancer patients are frequently also receiving endocrine therapy with selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) and/or aromatase inhibitors (AIs) to suppress the growth of estradiol sensitive breast tumors. Estrogens are well-known, however, to target brain areas involved in the regulation of cognitive behavior. In this review clinical and basic preclinical research is reviewed on the actions of estradiol, SERMs and AIs on brain and cognitive functioning to see if endocrine therapy potentially induces cognitive impairment and in that respect may contribute to the detrimental effects of chemotherapy on cognitive performance in breast cancer patients. Although many clinical studies may be underpowered to detect changes in cognitive function, current basic and clinical reports suggest that there is little evidence that AIs may have a lasting detrimental effect on cognitive performance in breast cancer patients. The clinical data on SERMs are not conclusive, but some studies do suggest that tamoxifen administration may form a risk for cognitive functioning particularly in older women. An explanation may come from basic preclinical research which indicates that tamoxifen often acts agonistic in the absence of estradiol but antagonistic in the presence of endogenous estradiol. It could be hypothesized that the negative effects of tamoxifen in older women is related to the so-called window of opportunity for estrogen. Administration of SERMs beyond this so-called window of opportunity may not be effective or might even have detrimental effects similar to estradiol.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bauke Buwalda
- Behavioral Physiology, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh 7, 9747 AG Groningen, The Netherlands.
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Munro CA, Workman CI, Kramer E, Hermann C, Ma Y, Dhawan V, Chaly T, Eidelberg D, Smith GS. Serotonin modulation of cerebral glucose metabolism: sex and age effects. Synapse 2012; 66:955-64. [PMID: 22836227 DOI: 10.1002/syn.21590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2012] [Revised: 07/12/2012] [Accepted: 07/18/2012] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
The serotonin system is implicated in a variety of psychiatric disorders whose clinical presentation and response to treatment differ between males and females, as well as with aging. However, human neurobiological studies are limited. Sex differences in the cerebral metabolic response to an increase in serotonin concentrations were measured, as well as the effect of aging, in men compared to women. Thirty-three normal healthy individuals (14 men/19 women, age range 20-79 years) underwent two resting positron emission tomography studies with the radiotracer [18F]-2-deoxy-2-fluoro-D-glucose ([(18)F]-FDG) after placebo and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI, citalopram) infusions on two separate days. Results indicated that women demonstrated widespread areas of increased cortical glucose metabolism with fewer areas of decrease in metabolism in response to citalopram. Men, in contrast, demonstrated several regions of decreased cortical metabolism, but no regions of increased metabolism. Age was associated with greater increases in women and greater decreases in men in most brain regions. These results support prior studies indicating that serotonin function differs in men and women across the lifespan. Future studies aimed at characterizing the influences of age and sex on the serotonin system in patients with psychiatric disorders are needed to elucidate the relationship between sex and age differences in brain chemistry and associated differences in symptom presentation and treatment response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cynthia A Munro
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 21224, USA
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25
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GPR30 is necessary for estradiol-induced desensitization of 5-HT1A receptor signaling in the paraventricular nucleus of the rat hypothalamus. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2012; 37:1248-60. [PMID: 22265196 PMCID: PMC3342396 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2011.12.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2011] [Revised: 10/12/2011] [Accepted: 12/19/2011] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Estrogen therapy used in combination with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) treatment improves SSRI efficacy for the treatment of mood disorders. Desensitization of serotonin 1A (5-HT(1A)) receptors, which takes one to two weeks to develop in animals, is necessary for SSRI therapeutic efficacy. Estradiol modifies 5-HT(1A) receptor signaling and induces a partial desensitization in the paraventricular nucleus (PVN) of the rat within two days, but the mechanisms underlying this effect are currently unknown. The purpose of this study was to identify the estrogen receptor necessary for estradiol-induced 5-HT(1A) receptor desensitization. We previously showed that estrogen receptor β is not necessary for 5-HT(1A) receptor desensitization and that selective activation of estrogen receptor GPR30 mimics the effects of estradiol in rat PVN. Here, we used a recombinant adenovirus containing GPR30 siRNAs to decrease GPR30 expression in the PVN. Reduction of GPR30 prevented estradiol-induced desensitization of 5-HT(1A) receptor as measured by hormonal responses to the selective 5-HT(1A) receptor agonist, (+)8-OH-DPAT. To determine the possible mechanisms underlying these effects, we investigated protein and mRNA levels of 5-HT(1A) receptor signaling components including 5-HT(1A) receptor, Gαz, and RGSz1. We found that two days of estradiol increased protein and mRNA expression of RGSz1, and decreased 5-HT(1A) receptor protein but increased 5-HT(1A) mRNA; GPR30 knockdown prevented the estradiol-induced changes in 5-HT(1A) receptor protein in the PVN. Taken together, these data demonstrate that GPR30 is necessary for estradiol-induced changes in the 5-HT(1A) receptor signaling pathway and desensitization of 5-HT(1A) receptor signaling.
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26
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Epperson CN, Amin Z, Ruparel K, Gur R, Loughead J. Interactive effects of estrogen and serotonin on brain activation during working memory and affective processing in menopausal women. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2012; 37:372-82. [PMID: 21820247 PMCID: PMC3226892 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2011.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2011] [Revised: 06/15/2011] [Accepted: 07/05/2011] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
While cognitive changes and mood instability are frequent symptoms reported by menopausal women, the degree to which the decline in estrogen production is responsible is not yet clear. Several lines of evidence suggest that estrogen may produce its effects on cognition and mood through modulation of serotonergic function. To test this hypothesis, we used the tryptophan depletion (TD) paradigm to lower central serotonin levels and pharmacologically manipulated estrogen levels in healthy menopausal women. We examined the individual and combined effects of estradiol and serotonin on working memory, emotion processing and task-related brain activation. Eight healthy predominantly early postmenopausal women underwent TD or sham depletion followed by functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) both before and after short-term transdermal estradiol 75-150 μg/d administration. There was an estradiol treatment by TD interaction for brain activation during performance on both the N-back Task (working memory) and Emotion Identification Task (affective processing). During the 2-back condition, TD attenuated activation prior to, but not after, estradiol treatment in the right and left dorsal lateral prefrontal and middle frontal/cingulate gyrus. During emotion identification, TD heightened activation in the orbital frontal cortex and bilateral amygdala, and this effect was attenuated by estradiol treatment. These results provide preliminary evidence that serotonergic effects directly mediate the impact of estrogen on brain activation during working memory and affective processing.
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27
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Rivera HM, Santollo J, Nikonova LV, Eckel LA. Estradiol increases the anorexia associated with increased 5-HT(2C) receptor activation in ovariectomized rats. Physiol Behav 2011; 105:188-94. [PMID: 21889523 DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2011.08.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2011] [Revised: 07/20/2011] [Accepted: 08/17/2011] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Estradiol's inhibitory effect on food intake is mediated, in part, by its ability to increase the activity of meal-related signals, including serotonin (5-HT), which hastens satiation. The important role that postsynaptic 5-HT(2C) receptors play in mediating 5-HT's anorexigenic effect prompted us to investigate whether a regimen of acute estradiol treatment increases the anorexia associated with increased 5-HT(2C) receptor activation in ovariectomized (OVX) rats. We demonstrated that intraperitoneal and intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.) administration of low doses of the 5-HT(2C) receptor agonist meta-chlorophenylpiperazine (mCPP) decreased 1-h dark-phase food intake in estradiol-treated, but not oil-treated, OVX rats. During a longer feeding test, we demonstrated that i.c.v. administration of mCPP decreased 22-h food intake in oil-treated and, to a greater extent, estradiol-treated OVX rats. In a second study, we demonstrated that estradiol increased 5-HT(2C) receptor protein content in the caudal brainstem, but not hypothalamus, of OVX rats. We conclude that a physiologically-relevant regimen of acute estradiol treatment increases sensitivity to mCPP's anorexigenic effect. Our demonstration that this same regimen of estradiol treatment increases 5-HT(2C) receptor protein content in the caudal hindbrain of OVX rats provides a possible mechanism to explain our behavioral findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heidi M Rivera
- Department of Psychology and program in Neuroscience, The Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL 32306-4301, USA
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28
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Sánchez MG, Estrada-Camarena E, Bélanger N, Morissette M, Di Paolo T. Estradiol modulation of cortical, striatal and raphe nucleus 5-HT1A and 5-HT2A receptors of female hemiparkinsonian monkeys after long-term ovariectomy. Neuropharmacology 2011; 60:642-52. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2010.11.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2010] [Revised: 11/23/2010] [Accepted: 11/29/2010] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
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29
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Association between HTR2C polymorphisms and metabolic syndrome in patients with schizophrenia treated with atypical antipsychotics. Schizophr Res 2011; 125:179-86. [PMID: 21185157 DOI: 10.1016/j.schres.2010.11.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2010] [Revised: 11/16/2010] [Accepted: 11/29/2010] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous research indicates that common single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the serotonin 5-HT2C receptor gene (HTR2C) are associated with metabolic syndrome (MetS) related to antipsychotic treatment. This study analyzes a large sample of patients with schizophrenia treated with atypical antipsychotics to determine whether variation in the HTR2C is associated with MetS. METHODS Six tag SNPs, capturing all common genetic variations in the HTR2C gene in the Han population, were genotyped in 456 Chinese schizophrenic inpatients treated with atypical antipsychotics (clozapine: 171, olanzapine: 91, and risperidone: 194). RESULTS Single-marker based analysis shows that of the six HTR2C SNPs, the rs498177 SNP showed a significant association with MetS in female patients, and the C allele was associated with an increased risk of MetS (for genotype TT/TC/CC: MetS vs. non-MetS=50%/27%/23% vs. 69%/28%/3%, and for allele T/C: MetS vs. non-MetS=63%/37% vs. 83%/17%, p=0.0007). Haplotype analysis shows that the A-C type of rs521018-rs498177 in the HTR2C gene significantly decreased the risk of MetS (corrected p=0.0108) in female patients. CONCLUSIONS The results of this study support the role of HTR2C genetic variants in susceptibility to MetS in patients treated with atypical antipsychotics. However, this association is gender-dependent.
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Frokjaer VG, Erritzoe D, Juul A, Nielsen FA, Holst K, Svarer C, Madsen J, Paulson OB, Knudsen GM. Endogenous plasma estradiol in healthy men is positively correlated with cerebral cortical serotonin 2A receptor binding. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2010; 35:1311-20. [PMID: 20356681 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2010.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2009] [Revised: 01/20/2010] [Accepted: 03/01/2010] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sex-hormones influence brain function and are likely to play a role in the gender predisposition to mood and anxiety disorders. Acute fluctuations of sex-hormone levels including hormonal replacement therapy appear to affect serotonergic neurotransmission, but it is unknown if baseline levels affect serotonergic neurotransmission. This study was undertaken to examine if baseline levels of endogenous sex hormones are associated with cerebral serotonin 2A (5-HT(2A)) receptor binding in men. METHODS In a group of 72 healthy men (mean age 37.5 years ±17.4 SD, range 19.6-81.7) we studied the effect of plasma sex hormone levels on neocortical 5-HT(2A) receptor binding as imaged with [(18)F]altanserin PET. The effect of endogenous sex-hormone levels was evaluated by multiple linear regression analysis. RESULTS Mean neocortical 5-HT(2A) receptor binding was positively correlated with estradiol (p=0.0001), whereas no independent effects of testosterone could be demonstrated. Correction for other factors of importance for 5-HT(2A) receptor binding did not change the result. A voxel-based analysis suggested that there were no regional differences in the estradiol effect on cortical 5-HT(2A) receptor binding. CONCLUSIONS Our data show a positive correlation between endogenous plasma estradiol levels and cortical 5-HT(2A) receptor binding in healthy men, whereas, no independent effect of testosterone was demonstrated. We speculate that this association could be mediated through effects on gene transcription.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vibe G Frokjaer
- Center for Integrated Molecular Brain Imaging, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark.
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31
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Albert PR, François BL. Modifying 5-HT1A Receptor Gene Expression as a New Target for Antidepressant Therapy. Front Neurosci 2010; 4:35. [PMID: 20661455 PMCID: PMC2907233 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2010.00035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2010] [Accepted: 05/10/2010] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Major depression is the most common form of mental illness, and is treated with antidepressant compounds that increase serotonin (5-HT) neurotransmission. Increased 5-HT1A autoreceptor levels in the raphe nuclei act as a “brake” to inhibit the 5-HT system, leading to depression and resistance to antidepressants. Several 5-HT1A receptor agonists (buspirone, flesinoxan, ipsapirone) that preferentially desensitize 5-HT1A autoreceptors have been tested for augmentation of antidepressant drugs with mixed results. One explanation could be the presence of the C(−1019)G 5-HT1A promoter polymorphism that prevents gene repression of the 5-HT1A autoreceptor. Furthermore, down-regulation of 5-HT1A autoreceptor expression, not simply desensitization of receptor signaling, appears to be required to enhance and accelerate antidepressant action. The current review focuses on the transcriptional regulators of 5-HT1A autoreceptor expression, their roles in permitting response to 5-HT1A-targeted treatments and their potential as targets for new antidepressant compounds for treatment-resistant depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul R Albert
- Department of Neuroscience, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, University of Ottawa Ottawa, ON, Canada
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Bethea CL, Reddy AP, Tokuyama Y, Henderson JA, Lima FB. Protective actions of ovarian hormones in the serotonin system of macaques. Front Neuroendocrinol 2009; 30:212-38. [PMID: 19394356 PMCID: PMC2704571 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2009.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2009] [Revised: 04/14/2009] [Accepted: 04/15/2009] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The serotonin neurons of the dorsal and medial raphe nuclei project to all areas of the forebrain and play a key role in mood disorders. Hence, any loss or degeneration of serotonin neurons could have profound ramifications. In a monkey model of surgical menopause with hormone replacement and no neural injury, E and P decreased gene expression in the dorsal raphe nucleus of c-jun n-terminal kinase (JNK1) and kynurenine mono-oxygenase (KMO) that promote cell death. In concert, E and P increased gene expression of superoxide dismutase (SOD1), VEGF, and caspase inhibitory proteins that promote cellular resilience in the dorsal raphe nucleus. Subsequently, we showed that ovarian steroids inhibit pivotal genes in the caspase-dependent and caspase-independent pathways in laser-captured serotonin neurons including apoptosis activating factor (Apaf1), apoptosis-inducing factor (AIF) and second mitochondria-derived activator of caspases (Smac/Diablo). SOD1 was also increased specifically in laser-captured serotonin neurons. Examination of protein expression in the dorsal raphe block revealed that JNK1, phosphoJNK1, AIF and the translocation of AIF from the mitochondria to the nucleus decreased with hormone therapy, whereas pivotal execution proteins in the caspase pathway were unchanged. In addition, cyclins A, B, D1 and E were inhibited, which would prevent re-entry into the cell cycle and catastrophic death. These data indicated that in the absence of gross injury to the midbrain, ovarian steroids inhibit the caspase-independent pathway and cell cycle initiation in serotonin neurons. To determine if these molecular actions prevented cellular vulnerability or death, we examined DNA fragmentation in the dorsal raphe nucleus with the TUNEL assay (terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase nick end labeling). Ovarian steroids significantly decreased the number of TUNEL-positive cells in the dorsal raphe. Moreover, TUNEL staining prominently colocalized with TPH immunostaining, a marker for serotonin neurons. In summary, ovarian steroids increase the cellular resilience of serotonin neurons and may prevent serotonin neuron death in women facing decades of life after menopause. The survival of serotonin neurons would support cognition and mental health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cynthia L Bethea
- Divisions of Reproductive Sciences, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Beaverton, OR 97006, United States.
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Gender and the use of hormonal contraception in women are not associated with cerebral cortical 5-HT 2A receptor binding. Neuroscience 2009; 163:640-5. [PMID: 19559762 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2009.06.052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2009] [Revised: 05/12/2009] [Accepted: 06/22/2009] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Gender influences brain function including serotonergic neurotransmission, which may play a role in the well-known gender variations in vulnerability to mood and anxiety disorders. Even though hormonal replacement therapy in menopause is associated with globally increased cerebral 5-HT(2A) receptor binding it is not clear if gender or use of hormonal contraception exhibits associations with 5-HT(2A) receptor binding. We found no significant effect of gender on cortical 5-HT(2A) receptor binding (P=0.15, n=132). When adjusting for the personality trait neuroticism, known to be positively correlated to frontolimbic 5-HT(2A) receptor binding and to be more pronounced in women, again, the effect of gender was not significant (P=0.42, n=127). Also, the use of hormonal contraception (n=14) within the group of pre-menopausal women (total n=29) was not associated with cortical 5-HT(2A) receptor binding (P=0.31). In conclusion, neither gender, nor the use of hormonal contraception in premenopausal women was associated with cortical 5-HT(2A) receptor binding.
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