Nerve growth factor, D2 receptor isoforms, and pituitary tumors

The Roles of Endogenous D2R Dopamine and μ-opioid Receptors of the Brain in Alcohol use Disorder

Alcohol use disorder (AUD) affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by a strong physiological and psychological craving to consume large amounts of alcohol despite adverse consequences. Alcohol use disorder carries a large health and economic burden on society. Despite its prevalence, AUD is still severely undertreated. The precise molecular mechanisms of how alcohol addiction forms are yet unknown. However, previous studies on animal models show that along with the μ-opioid receptors, the D2R dopamine receptors may also be involved in alcohol craving and reward pathways. Currently, there is a limited number of treatment strategies for alcohol use disorder, which include several medications and therapy. By understanding the limitations of current treatment options and exploring new potential targets, it could be possible to find more effective ways of treating AUD in the future.

Association of craniopharyngioma and pituitary adenoma

Intracranial tumors of different histologic types infrequently affect patients with pituitary adenomas and no history of head irradiation. The association with craniopharyngioma is extremely rare. Aims of this paper are: (1) to provide a critical literature review of typical features of pituitary adenoma presenting in association with craniopharyngioma; (2) to describe the first documented (clinically, biochemically, histologically, and radiologically) case of aggressive, suprasellar papillary craniopharyngioma presenting with amenorrhea, progressive reduction of visual field, and severe headache in a 38-year-old woman, a decade after surgical cure for microprolactinoma associated with empty sella, during which she had carried two pregnancies; and (3) to discuss common etiopathogenetic mechanisms, in relation to the management of these lesions. Systematic literature search for English literature focusing on the association of craniopharyngioma and pituitary adenoma was performed using PubMed database. Additional relevant articles from references lists were also included. Clinical, laboratory, and radiological examinations performed in our patient for the two brain lesions at diagnosis and follow up were collected. Literature search retrieved nine articles. Typically, craniopharyngioma were of adamantinomatous type, occurred simultaneously to pituitary adenoma, presented with headache and visual loss, and affected men. No case of clearly documented metachronous lesion affecting a woman after pregnancy had been described before. Although very rare and with uncertain etiopathogenesis, second tumors (i.e., craniopharyngioma) should be considered in patients with a history of pituitary adenoma, presenting with suggestive signs and symptoms, even after a long disease-free period, in order to provide proper and prompt treatment.