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Knott TS, Whyte AJ, Dhawan SS, Tait DS, Brown VJ. "Blocking-like" effects in attentional set-shifting: Redundant cues facilitate shifting in male rats with medial prefrontal cortex inactivation. Neuroscience 2024; 555:134-144. [PMID: 39059743 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2024.07.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2024] [Revised: 07/17/2024] [Accepted: 07/20/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024]
Abstract
Without a functioning prefrontal cortex, humans and other animals are impaired in measures of cognitive control and behavioral flexibility, including attentional set-shifting. However, the reason for this is unclear with evidence suggesting both impaired and enhanced attentional shifting. We inhibited the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) of rats while they performed a modified version of an attentional set-shifting task to explore the nature of this apparent contradiction. Twelve adult male Lister hooded rats received AAV5-CaMKIIa-hM4D(Gi)-mCherry viral vector bilaterally into mPFC to express inhibitory 'Designer Receptors Exclusively Activated by Designer Drugs' (iDREADDs). The receptors were activated by systemic clozapine N-oxide (CNO) to inhibit mPFC function. The rats were tested in the standard attentional set-shifting task four times: twice after i.p. administration and twice after oral administration of vehicle or CNO (10 mg/kg). They were then tested twice in a modified task, with or without oral CNO. The modified task had an extra stage before the extradimensional shift, in which the relevant exemplars remained relevant and new exemplars that were fully predictive but redundant replaced the previous irrelevant exemplars. These exemplars then became relevant at the subsequent ED stage. In the standard task, mPFC inactivation impaired attentional set-shifting, consistent with previous findings. However, in the modified task, mPFC inactivation abolished ED shift-costs. The results support the suggestion that the mPFC is needed for the downregulation of attention that prevents learning about redundant and irrelevant stimuli. With mPFC inactivated, the rat learns more rapidly when previously redundant exemplars become the only relevant information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tegan S Knott
- School of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of St Andrews, St Mary's Quad, South Street, St Andrews KY16 9JP, UK
| | - Alonzo J Whyte
- School of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of St Andrews, St Mary's Quad, South Street, St Andrews KY16 9JP, UK
| | - Sandeep S Dhawan
- School of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of St Andrews, St Mary's Quad, South Street, St Andrews KY16 9JP, UK
| | - David S Tait
- School of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of St Andrews, St Mary's Quad, South Street, St Andrews KY16 9JP, UK.
| | - Verity J Brown
- School of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of St Andrews, St Mary's Quad, South Street, St Andrews KY16 9JP, UK.
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Zhang T, Wang H, Ouyang F, Yang H, Zhang J, Zhang N. Does brain-derived neurotrophic factor play a role in the association between maternal prenatal mental health and neurodevelopment in 2-year-old children? J Affect Disord 2024; 359:171-179. [PMID: 38777264 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2024.05.074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2024] [Revised: 05/11/2024] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the role of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF)-a crucial modulator of neural development and plasticity-in the association between prenatal maternal anxiety, depression, and perceived stress and child neurodevelopment in a prospective cohort study. METHODS We included 526 eligible mother-child pairs from the Shanghai Birth Cohort in the study. Maternal mental health was assessed at mid-pregnancy using Zung's Self-Rating Anxiety Scale, Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale, and Perceived Stress Scale. The concentration of BDNF in cord blood was measured by ELISA. The offspring neurodevelopment at 24 months of age was assessed using the Bayley Scales. Linear and non-linear regression models were used. RESULTS The average cord blood BDNF levels were higher in female newborns and those born via vaginal delivery, full term, and normal birth weight. Prenatal maternal anxiety (β = -0.32; 95 % CI: -0.55, -0.09), depression (β = -0.30; 95 % CI: -0.52, -0.08), and perceived stress (β = -0.41; 95 % CI: -0.71, -0.12) scores were negatively associated with social-emotional performance at 24 months of age. However, no significant associations were found between prenatal maternal anxiety, depression, or perceived stress at mid-pregnancy and cord blood BDNF levels, as well as between cord blood BDNF levels and child neurodevelopment. LIMITATIONS Maternal mental health at different timepoints during pregnancy and generalizability of the results warrant further assessment. CONCLUSIONS Prenatal mental health was not associated with cord blood BDNF level and that BDNF may not be a mediator in the association between prenatal mental health and child neurodevelopment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tian Zhang
- Ministry of Education-Shanghai Key Laboratory of Children's Environmental Health, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Huizi Wang
- Hainan Women and Children's Medical Center, Haikou, China
| | - Fengxiu Ouyang
- Ministry of Education-Shanghai Key Laboratory of Children's Environmental Health, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Hua Yang
- Hainan Women and Children's Medical Center, Haikou, China
| | - Jun Zhang
- Ministry of Education-Shanghai Key Laboratory of Children's Environmental Health, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China; School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Na Zhang
- Ministry of Education-Shanghai Key Laboratory of Children's Environmental Health, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China; School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
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Samizadeh MA, Abdollahi-Keyvani ST, Fallah H, Beigi B, Motamedi-Manesh A, Adibian S, Vaseghi S. Sex difference alters the behavioral and cognitive performance in a rat model of schizophrenia induced by sub-chronic ketamine. J Psychiatr Res 2024; 178:180-187. [PMID: 39146821 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2024.08.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2024] [Revised: 06/22/2024] [Accepted: 08/10/2024] [Indexed: 08/17/2024]
Abstract
Schizophrenia is a complex neuropsychiatric disorder with positive, negative, and cognitive symptoms. In rats, sub-chronic administration of ketamine is used for the induction of schizophrenia model. Increased locomotor activity is one of the most important features of psychotic-like symptoms in rodents. On the other hand, risperidone is a potent antipsychotic medication that is approved for the treatment of schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. In the present research, we aimed to investigate the effect of sub-chronic treatment of ketamine on cognitive and behavioral functions, and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) expression level in the prefrontal cortex. Also, we assessed the efficacy of risperidone on cognitive and behavioral impairments induced by ketamine. Possible sex differences were also measured. Ketamine was intraperitoneally injected at the dose of 30 mg/kg for five consecutive days. Risperidone was also intraperitoneally injected at the dose of 2 mg/kg. Novel object recognition memory, pain threshold, locomotor activity, rearing behavior, and BDNF level were evaluated. The results showed that ketamine injection for five consecutive days impaired the acquisition of long-term recognition memory and decreased BDNF level in the prefrontal cortex in both sexes. Also, it decreased pain threshold in females, increased rearing behavior in males, and induced hyperlocomotion with greater effect in females. On the other hand, risperidone restored or attenuated the effect of ketamine on all the behavioral effects and BDNF level. In conclusion, we suggested that there were sex differences in the effects of ketamine on pain perception, locomotion, and rearing behavior in a rat model of schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad-Ali Samizadeh
- Cognitive Neuroscience Lab, Medicinal Plants Research Center, Institute of Medicinal Plants, ACECR, Karaj, Iran
| | | | - Hamed Fallah
- Department of Basic Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Bahar Beigi
- Cognitive Neuroscience Lab, Medicinal Plants Research Center, Institute of Medicinal Plants, ACECR, Karaj, Iran
| | - Atefeh Motamedi-Manesh
- Cognitive Neuroscience Lab, Medicinal Plants Research Center, Institute of Medicinal Plants, ACECR, Karaj, Iran
| | - Sogand Adibian
- Cognitive Neuroscience Lab, Medicinal Plants Research Center, Institute of Medicinal Plants, ACECR, Karaj, Iran
| | - Salar Vaseghi
- Cognitive Neuroscience Lab, Medicinal Plants Research Center, Institute of Medicinal Plants, ACECR, Karaj, Iran; Medicinal Plants Research Center, Institute of Medicinal Plants, ACECR, Karaj, Iran.
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Simanaviciute U, Potter HG, Hager R, Glazier J, Hodson-Tole E, Gigg J, Grant R. Maternal immune activation affects female offspring whisker movements during object exploration in a rat model of neurodevelopmental disorders. Brain Behav Immun Health 2024; 39:100807. [PMID: 38988451 PMCID: PMC11233915 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbih.2024.100807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2024] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Poly I:C rat offspring are used to investigate the effects of in utero exposure to maternal immune activation (MIA) and have been suggested as a model of neurodevelopmental disorders (NDD). The behavioural symptoms of this model are diverse and can vary with external factors, including the choice of background strain and husbandry practices. Measuring whisker movements provides quantitative, robust measurements of sensory, motor and cognitive behaviours in rodents. In this study, whisker movements were investigated in 50-day-old male and female offspring of MIA-exposed rat dams and compared to age-matched offspring of control (vehicle) dams. Rat offspring were filmed using high-speed videography in a sequential object exploration task with smooth and textured objects. Poly I:C treatment effects were found in female offspring that did not increase whisker mean angular position during object exploration, especially for the smooth object, indicating an attentional deficit. Whisker tracking during object exploration is demonstrated here, for the first time, as a useful, quick and non-invasive tool to identify both treatment effects and sex differences in a model of MIA-induced NDDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ugne Simanaviciute
- Faculty of Science and Engineering, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, M1 5GD, UK
| | - Harry G Potter
- Institute for Behaviour, Sport and Rehabilitation, School of Medicine & Dentistry, University of Central Lancashire, Burnley, BB11 1RA, UK
- Division of Evolution, Infection and Genomics, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, M13 9PT, UK
| | - Reinmar Hager
- Division of Evolution, Infection and Genomics, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, M13 9PT, UK
| | - Jocelyn Glazier
- Division of Evolution, Infection and Genomics, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, M13 9PT, UK
| | - Emma Hodson-Tole
- Faculty of Science and Engineering, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, M1 5GD, UK
| | - John Gigg
- Division of Neuroscience, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Robyn Grant
- Faculty of Science and Engineering, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, M1 5GD, UK
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Cecerska-Heryć E, Polikowska A, Serwin N, Michalczyk A, Stodolak P, Goszka M, Zoń M, Budkowska M, Tyburski E, Podwalski P, Waszczuk K, Rudkowski K, Kucharska-Mazur J, Mak M, Samochowiec A, Misiak B, Sagan L, Samochowiec J, Dołęgowska B. The importance of oxidative biomarkers in diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring schizophrenia patients. Schizophr Res 2024; 270:44-56. [PMID: 38851167 DOI: 10.1016/j.schres.2024.05.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Revised: 05/13/2024] [Accepted: 05/26/2024] [Indexed: 06/10/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The etiology of schizophrenia (SCZ), an incredibly complex disorder, remains multifaceted. Literature suggests the involvement of oxidative stress (OS) in the pathophysiology of SCZ. OBJECTIVES Determination of selected OS markers and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in patients with chronic SCZ and those in states predisposing to SCZ-first episode psychosis (FP) and ultra-high risk (UHR). MATERIALS AND METHODS Determination of OS markers and BDNF levels by spectrophotometric methods and ELISA in 150 individuals (116 patients diagnosed with SCZ or in a predisposed state, divided into four subgroups according to the type of disorder: deficit schizophrenia, non-deficit schizophrenia, FP, UHR). The control group included 34 healthy volunteers. RESULTS Lower activities of analyzed antioxidant enzymes and GSH and TAC concentrations were found in all individuals in the study group compared to controls (p < 0.001). BDNF concentration was also lower in all groups compared to controls except in the UHR subgroup (p = 0.01). Correlations were observed between BDNF, R-GSSG, GST, GPx activity, and disease duration (p < 0.02). A small effect of smoking on selected OS markers was also noted (rho<0.06, p < 0.03). CONCLUSIONS OS may play an important role in the pathophysiology of SCZ before developing the complete clinical pattern of the disorder. The redox imbalance manifests itself with such severity in individuals with SCZ and in a state predisposing to the development of this psychiatric disease that natural antioxidant systems become insufficient to compensate against it completely. The discussed OS biomarkers may support the SCZ diagnosis and predict its progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elżbieta Cecerska-Heryć
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Pomeranian Medical University of Szczecin, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland.
| | - Aleksandra Polikowska
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Pomeranian Medical University of Szczecin, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland
| | - Natalia Serwin
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Pomeranian Medical University of Szczecin, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland
| | - Anna Michalczyk
- Department of Psychiatry, Pomeranian Medical University of Szczecin, 71-460 Szczecin, Poland
| | - Patrycja Stodolak
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Pomeranian Medical University of Szczecin, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland
| | - Małgorzata Goszka
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Pomeranian Medical University of Szczecin, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland
| | - Martyn Zoń
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Pomeranian Medical University of Szczecin, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland
| | - Marta Budkowska
- Department of Analytical Medicine, Pomeranian Medical University of Szczecin, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland
| | - Ernest Tyburski
- Department of Health Psychology, Pomeranian Medical University, 71-460 Szczecin, Poland
| | - Piotr Podwalski
- Department of Psychiatry, Pomeranian Medical University of Szczecin, 71-460 Szczecin, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Waszczuk
- Department of Psychiatry, Pomeranian Medical University of Szczecin, 71-460 Szczecin, Poland
| | - Krzysztof Rudkowski
- Department of Psychiatry, Pomeranian Medical University of Szczecin, 71-460 Szczecin, Poland
| | - Jolanta Kucharska-Mazur
- Department of Psychiatry, Pomeranian Medical University of Szczecin, 71-460 Szczecin, Poland
| | - Monika Mak
- Department of Health Psychology, Pomeranian Medical University, 71-460 Szczecin, Poland
| | | | - Błażej Misiak
- Department of Psychiatry, Division of Consultation Psychiatry and Neuroscience, Wroclaw Medical University, 50-368 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Leszek Sagan
- Department of Neurosurgery, Pomeranian Medical University, 71-252 Szczecin, Poland
| | - Jerzy Samochowiec
- Department of Psychiatry, Pomeranian Medical University of Szczecin, 71-460 Szczecin, Poland
| | - Barbara Dołęgowska
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Pomeranian Medical University of Szczecin, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland
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Li D, Pan Q, Xiao Y, Hu K. Advances in the study of phencyclidine-induced schizophrenia-like animal models and the underlying neural mechanisms. SCHIZOPHRENIA (HEIDELBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 10:65. [PMID: 39039065 PMCID: PMC11263595 DOI: 10.1038/s41537-024-00485-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2024] [Accepted: 07/12/2024] [Indexed: 07/24/2024]
Abstract
Schizophrenia (SZ) is a chronic, severe mental disorder with heterogeneous clinical manifestations and unknown etiology. Research on SZ has long been limited by the low reliability of and ambiguous pathogenesis in schizophrenia animal models. Phencyclidine (PCP), a noncompetitive N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) antagonist, rapidly induces both positive and negative symptoms of SZ as well as stable SZ-related cognitive impairment in rodents. However, the neural mechanism underlying PCP-induced SZ-like symptoms is not fully understood. Nondopaminergic pathophysiology, particularly excessive glutamate release induced by NMDAR hypofunction in the prefrontal cortex (PFC), may play a key role in the development of PCP-induced SZ-like symptoms. In this review, we summarize studies on the behavioral and metabolic effects of PCP and the cellular and circuitary targets of PCP in the PFC and hippocampus (HIP). PCP is thought to target the ventral HIP-PFC pathway more strongly than the PFC-VTA pathway and thalamocortical pathway. Systemic PCP administration might preferentially inhibit gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) neurons in the vHIP and in turn lead to hippocampal pyramidal cell disinhibition. Excitatory inputs from the HIP may trigger sustained, excessive and pathological PFC pyramidal neuron activation to mediate various SZ-like symptoms. In addition, astrocyte and microglial activation and oxidative stress in the cerebral cortex or hippocampus have been observed in PCP-induced models of SZ. These findings perfect the hypoglutamatergic hypothesis of schizophrenia. However, whether these effects direct the consequences of PCP administration and how about the relationships between these changes induced by PCP remain further elucidation through rigorous, causal and direct experimental evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dabing Li
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwestern Medical University, LuZhou, 646000, China.
| | - Qiangwen Pan
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwestern Medical University, LuZhou, 646000, China
| | - Yewei Xiao
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southwestern Medical University, LuZhou, 646000, China
| | - Kehui Hu
- Department of rehabilitation Medicine, SuiNing Central Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, SuiNing, 629000, China.
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Lu C, Li S, Kang L, Li Q, Chen H, Lin Y, Zhang H, Tang Z, Bai M, Xiong P. Aripiprazole combined with nerve growth factor improves cognitive function in mice with schizophrenia model. Neurosci Lett 2023; 812:137410. [PMID: 37495071 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2023.137410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Revised: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023]
Abstract
The pathogenesis and treatment of cognitive dysfunction in patients with schizophrenia (SCZ) remains a challenge. Exploring new effective treatment strategies is relevant for the improvement of cognitive function. Aripiprazole (ARI) is an atypical antipsychotic that improves some cognitive functions. Nerve growth factor (NGF) has been shown to improve cognitive function in certain neurological impairments and partial neurological deficits, but its mechanism of action in cognitive dysfunction in SCZ is unclear. In this study, we established schizophrenia mouse model with dizocilpine (MK-801); treated mice with ARI alone or in combination with NGF; assessed spontaneous activity and cognitive function using open field test and Morris water maze test; and measured brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) protein and mRNA expression levels using immunohistochemistry and molecular biology assays. The results showed that ARI alone or in combination with NGF can improve increased spontaneous activity and spatial learning memory deficits in model mice by elevating BDNF expression levels in prefrontal cortex (PFC) and hippocampus (HIP). The results suggest that ARI combined with NGF can improve cognitive function in SCZ, which provides new ideas and directions for the clinical treatment of cognitive dysfunction in SCZ.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cailian Lu
- Department of Psychiatry, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Shan Li
- Department of Psychiatry, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Lin Kang
- Department of Psychiatry, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Qianqian Li
- Department of Psychiatry, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Hongxu Chen
- Department of Psychiatry, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Yanwen Lin
- Department of Psychiatry, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Han Zhang
- Department of Psychiatry, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Ziling Tang
- Department of Psychiatry, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Meiyan Bai
- Department of Psychiatry, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Peng Xiong
- Department of Psychiatry, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan, China; Yunnan Clinical Research Center for Mental Health, Kunming, Yunnan, China.
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Mosiołek A, Mosiołek J. The Effects of Treatment in Psychotic Disorders-Changes in BDNF Levels and Clinical Outcomes: Systematic Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:2111. [PMID: 36767478 PMCID: PMC9915041 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20032111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Revised: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Psychotic disorders are associated with significant impairment in functioning, and their treatment remains a great therapeutic challenge. Patients are at a higher risk of suicide and premature mortality. Biomarkers, such as brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), play a vital role in neurotransmission and neurodevelopment. Decreased levels of BDNF alter neuronal signaling and cause the appearance of symptoms such as the impairment of working memory. A literature search was performed using the PubMed data base. Following the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 24 original articles were selected. We collected available data showcasing the influence of antipsychotic and non-pharmacological treatments, in patients suffering from psychotic disorders, on clinical conditions and BDNF levels in serum or plasma. In this review, we outline emerging data regarding the influence of different antipsychotic drugs and non-pharmacological treatment methods on BDNF and discuss their role as predictors of treatment outcome. Most studies conducted with antipsychotics saw an increase in BDNF levels; however, no positive correlation between change in BDNF and PANSS scores was observed. Studies based on non-pharmacological methods varied based on the treatment applied. Therefore, it is difficult to draw definite conclusions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Mosiołek
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Health Sciences, Medical University of Warsaw, Żwirki i Wigury 61 Street, 02-091 Warszawa, Poland
| | - Jadwiga Mosiołek
- John Paul II Western Hospital in Grodzisk Mazowiecki, Daleka 11 Street, 05-825 Grodzisk Mazowiecki, Poland
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9
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Białoń M, Wąsik A. Advantages and Limitations of Animal Schizophrenia Models. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:5968. [PMID: 35682647 PMCID: PMC9181262 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23115968] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2022] [Revised: 05/17/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Mental illness modeling is still a major challenge for scientists. Animal models of schizophrenia are essential to gain a better understanding of the disease etiopathology and mechanism of action of currently used antipsychotic drugs and help in the search for new and more effective therapies. We can distinguish among pharmacological, genetic, and neurodevelopmental models offering various neuroanatomical disorders and a different spectrum of symptoms of schizophrenia. Modeling schizophrenia is based on inducing damage or changes in the activity of relevant regions in the rodent brain (mainly the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus). Such artificially induced dysfunctions approximately correspond to the lesions found in patients with schizophrenia. However, notably, animal models of mental illness have numerous limitations and never fully reflect the disease state observed in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Agnieszka Wąsik
- Department of Neurochemistry, Maj Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 31-343 Cracow, Poland;
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10
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Peripheral Blood Levels of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor in Patients with First Episode Psychosis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Brain Sci 2022; 12:brainsci12040414. [PMID: 35447946 PMCID: PMC9027267 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci12040414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2022] [Revised: 03/12/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Peripheral blood level of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) may be used as a diagnostic and/or prognostic marker for schizophrenia. Previous studies were inconsistent. A systematic review was conducted to examine whether BDNF level is different in patients with first episode psychosis (FEP) compared to health controls (HC) and whether it changes after treatment. Methods: Literature search was done in PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar following standard procedures. Hedges’ g was used as the measure of effect size (ES), which was pooled with random effects model. Publication bias and moderator effects were examined. Results: Search yielded 29 studies with a total sample size of 2912. First meta-analysis included 27 studies with FEP vs. HC comparison. Pooled ES was −0.63, p < 0.001, indicating that BDNF level was lower in FEP than in HC. Studies were heterogeneous, and moderator analysis showed that studies of younger patient, higher symptom severity, and more drug naïve had larger ES. Second meta-analysis examined change in BDNF levels before and after antipsychotic treatment in eight studies. A pooled ES of −0.003 (p = 0.96) showed no change in peripheral BDNF level after treatment. Conclusion: Peripheral BDNF level was decreased in FEP compared to HC, but it did not change after treatment.
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11
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Sex-specific differences in KCC2 localisation and inhibitory synaptic transmission in the rat hippocampus. Sci Rep 2022; 12:3186. [PMID: 35210456 PMCID: PMC8873453 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-06769-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2021] [Accepted: 02/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Sexual differentiation of the brain is influenced by testosterone and its metabolites during the perinatal period, when many aspects of brain development, including the maturation of GABAergic transmission, occur. Whether and how testosterone signaling during the perinatal period affects GABAergic transmission is unclear. Here, we analyzed GABAergic circuit functional markers in male, female, testosterone-treated female, and testosterone-insensitive male rats after the first postnatal week and in young adults. In the hippocampus, mRNA levels of proteins associated with GABA signaling were not significantly affected at postnatal day (P) 7 or P40. Conversely, membrane protein levels of KCC2, which are critical for determining inhibition strength, were significantly higher in females compared to males and testosterone-treated females at P7. Further, female and testosterone-insensitive male rats at P7 showed higher levels of the neurotrophin BDNF, which is a powerful regulator of neuronal function, including GABAergic transmission. Finally, spontaneous GABAergic currents in hippocampal CA1 pyramidal cells were more frequent in females and testosterone-insensitive males at P40. Overall, these results show that perinatal testosterone levels modulate GABAergic circuit function, suggesting a critical role of perinatal sex hormones in regulating network excitability in the adult hippocampus.
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12
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Uhl M, Schmeisser MJ, Schumann S. The Sexual Dimorphic Synapse: From Spine Density to Molecular Composition. Front Mol Neurosci 2022; 15:818390. [PMID: 35250477 PMCID: PMC8894598 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2022.818390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2021] [Accepted: 01/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
A synaptic sexual dimorphism is relevant in the context of multiple neurodevelopmental, neurodegenerative, and neuropsychiatric disorders. Many of these disorders show a different prevalence and progression in woman and man. A similar variance is also present in corresponding animal models. To understand and characterize this dimorphism in pathologies it is important to first understand sex differences in unaffected individuals. Therefore, sexual differences have been studied since 1788, first focusing on brain weight, size, and volume. But as these measures are not directly related to brain function, the investigation of sexual dimorphism also expanded to other organizational levels of the brain. This review is focused on sexual dimorphism at the synaptic level, as these specialized structures are the smallest functional units of the brain, determining cell communication, connectivity, and plasticity. Multiple differences between males and females can be found on the levels of spine density, synaptic morphology, and molecular synapse composition. These differences support the importance of sex-disaggregated data. The specificity of changes to a particular brain region or circuit might support the idea of a mosaic brain, in which each tile individually lies on a continuum from masculinization to feminization. Moreover, synapses can be seen as the smallest tiles of the mosaic determining the classification of larger areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mara Uhl
- Institute for Microscopic Anatomy and Neurobiology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
- Focus Program Translational Neurosciences, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Michael J. Schmeisser
- Institute for Microscopic Anatomy and Neurobiology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
- Focus Program Translational Neurosciences, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
- *Correspondence: Michael J. Schmeisser,
| | - Sven Schumann
- Institute for Microscopic Anatomy and Neurobiology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
- Sven Schumann,
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13
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Loureiro CM, Fachim HA, Harte MK, Dalton CF, Reynolds GP. Subchronic PCP effects on DNA methylation and protein expression of NMDA receptor subunit genes in the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus of female rats. J Psychopharmacol 2022; 36:238-244. [PMID: 35102781 DOI: 10.1177/02698811211069109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) dysfunction is implicated in schizophrenia, and NMDAR antagonists, such as phencyclidine (PCP), can induce behaviours that mimic aspects of the disorder. AIMS We investigated DNA methylation of Grin1, Grin2a and Grin2b promoter region and NR1 and NR2 protein expression in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) and hippocampus of adult female Lister-hooded rats following subchronic PCP (scPCP) administration. We also determined whether any alterations were tissue-specific. METHODS Rats were divided into two groups that received vehicle (0.9% saline) or 2 mg/kg PCP twice a day for 7 days (n = 10 per group). After behavioural testing (novel object recognition), to confirm a cognitive deficit, brains were dissected and NMDAR subunit DNA methylation and protein expression were analysed by pyrosequencing and ELISA. Line-1 methylation was determined as a measure of global methylation. Data were analysed using Student's t-test and Pearson correlation. RESULTS The scPCP administration led to Grin1 and Grin2b hypermethylation and reduction in NR1 protein in both PFC and hippocampus. No significant differences were observed in Line-1 or Grin2a methylation and NR2 protein. CONCLUSIONS The scPCP treatment resulted in increased DNA methylation at promoter sites of Grin1 and Grin2b NMDAR subunits in two brain areas implicated in schizophrenia, independent of any global change in DNA methylation, and are similar to our observations in a neurodevelopmental animal model of schizophrenia - social isolation rearing post-weaning. Moreover, these alterations may contribute to the changes in protein expression for NMDAR subunits demonstrating the potential importance of epigenetic mechanisms in schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camila M Loureiro
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Clinical Immunology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil.,Biomolecular Sciences Research Centre, Sheffield Hallam University, Sheffield, UK
| | - Helene A Fachim
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Salford Royal Foundation Trust, Salford, UK
| | - Michael K Harte
- Division of Pharmacy & Optometry, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Caroline F Dalton
- Biomolecular Sciences Research Centre, Sheffield Hallam University, Sheffield, UK
| | - Gavin P Reynolds
- Biomolecular Sciences Research Centre, Sheffield Hallam University, Sheffield, UK
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14
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Wang CS, Kavalali ET, Monteggia LM. BDNF signaling in context: From synaptic regulation to psychiatric disorders. Cell 2022; 185:62-76. [PMID: 34963057 PMCID: PMC8741740 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2021.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 183] [Impact Index Per Article: 91.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2021] [Revised: 10/10/2021] [Accepted: 12/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is a neuropeptide that plays numerous important roles in synaptic development and plasticity. While its importance in fundamental physiology is well established, studies of BDNF often produce conflicting and unclear results, and the scope of existing research makes the prospect of setting future directions daunting. In this review, we examine the importance of spatial and temporal factors on BDNF activity, particularly in processes such as synaptogenesis, Hebbian plasticity, homeostatic plasticity, and the treatment of psychiatric disorders. Understanding the fundamental physiology of when, where, and how BDNF acts and new approaches to control BDNF signaling in time and space can contribute to improved therapeutics and patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camille S Wang
- Vanderbilt Brain Institute, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37232-2050, USA; Department of Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37240-7933, USA
| | - Ege T Kavalali
- Vanderbilt Brain Institute, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37232-2050, USA; Department of Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37240-7933, USA
| | - Lisa M Monteggia
- Vanderbilt Brain Institute, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37232-2050, USA; Department of Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37240-7933, USA.
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15
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Tanqueiro SR, Mouro FM, Ferreira CB, Freitas CF, Fonseca-Gomes J, Simões do Couto F, Sebastião AM, Dawson N, Diógenes MJ. Sustained NMDA receptor hypofunction impairs brain-derived neurotropic factor signalling in the PFC, but not in the hippocampus, and disturbs PFC-dependent cognition in mice. J Psychopharmacol 2021; 35:730-743. [PMID: 34008450 DOI: 10.1177/02698811211008560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cognitive deficits profoundly impact on the quality of life of patients with schizophrenia. Alterations in brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) signalling, which regulates synaptic function through the activation of full-length tropomyosin-related kinase B receptors (TrkB-FL), are implicated in the aetiology of schizophrenia, as is N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDA-R) hypofunction. However, whether NMDA-R hypofunction contributes to the disrupted BDNF signalling seen in patients remains unknown. AIMS The purpose of this study was to characterise BDNF signalling and function in a preclinical rodent model relevant to schizophrenia induced by prolonged NMDA-R hypofunction. METHODS Using the subchronic phencyclidine (PCP) model, we performed electrophysiology approaches, molecular characterisation and behavioural analysis. RESULTS The data showed that prolonged NMDA-R antagonism, induced by subchronic PCP treatment, impairs long-term potentiation (LTP) and the facilitatory effect of BDNF upon LTP in the medial prefrontal cortex (PFC) of adult mice. Additionally, TrkB-FL receptor expression is decreased in the PFC of these animals. By contrast, these changes were not present in the hippocampus of PCP-treated mice. Moreover, BDNF levels were not altered in the hippocampus or PFC of PCP-treated mice. Interestingly, these observations are paralleled by impaired performance in PFC-dependent cognitive tests in mice treated with PCP. CONCLUSIONS Overall, these data suggest that NMDA-R hypofunction induces dysfunctional BDNF signalling in the PFC, but not in the hippocampus, which may contribute to the PFC-dependent cognitive deficits seen in the subchronic PCP model. Additionally, these data suggest that targeting BDNF signalling may be a mechanism to improve PFC-dependent cognitive dysfunction in schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara R Tanqueiro
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal.,Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Francisco M Mouro
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal.,Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Catarina B Ferreira
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal.,Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Céline F Freitas
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal.,Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - João Fonseca-Gomes
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal.,Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Frederico Simões do Couto
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal.,Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal.,Serviço de Psiquiatria e Saúde Mental, Hospital de Santa Maria - Centro Hospitalar Lisboa Norte, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Ana M Sebastião
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal.,Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Neil Dawson
- Division of Biomedical and Life Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medicine, Lancaster University, Lancaster, UK
| | - Maria J Diógenes
- Instituto de Farmacologia e Neurociências, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal.,Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
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16
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Sotiropoulos MG, Poulogiannopoulou E, Delis F, Dalla C, Antoniou K, Kokras N. Innovative screening models for the discovery of new schizophrenia drug therapies: an integrated approach. Expert Opin Drug Discov 2021; 16:791-806. [PMID: 33467920 DOI: 10.1080/17460441.2021.1877657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: Schizophrenia is a severe psychiatric disorder affecting millions worldwide. However, available treatment options do not fully address the disease. Whereas current antipsychotics may control psychotic symptoms, they seem notoriously ineffective in improving negative and cognitive symptoms or in preventing functional decline. As the etiology of schizophrenia eludes us, the development of valid animal models for screening new drug targets appears to be a strenuous task.Areas covered: In this review, the authors present the key concepts that validate animal models of schizophrenia, as well as the different screening approaches for novel schizophrenia treatments. The models covered are either based on major neurotransmitter systems or neurodevelopmental, immune, and genetic approaches.Expert opinion: Sadly, due to inertia, research focuses on developing 'anti-psychotics', instead of 'anti-schizophrenia' drugs that would tackle the entire syndrome of schizophrenia. Whereas no perfect model may ever exist, combining different experimental designs may enhance validity, as the over-reliance on a single model is inappropriate. Multi-model approaches incorporating vulnerability, the 'two-hit' hypothesis, and endophenotypes offer a promise for developing new strategies for schizophrenia treatment. Forward and reverse translation between preclinical and clinical research will increase the probability of success and limit failures in drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marinos G Sotiropoulos
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Eleni Poulogiannopoulou
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Foteini Delis
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Christina Dalla
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Katerina Antoniou
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Nikolaos Kokras
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece.,First Department of Psychiatry, Eginition Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
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17
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Christian CA, Reddy DS, Maguire J, Forcelli PA. Sex Differences in the Epilepsies and Associated Comorbidities: Implications for Use and Development of Pharmacotherapies. Pharmacol Rev 2021; 72:767-800. [PMID: 32817274 DOI: 10.1124/pr.119.017392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The epilepsies are common neurologic disorders characterized by spontaneous recurrent seizures. Boys, girls, men, and women of all ages are affected by epilepsy and, in many cases, by associated comorbidities as well. The primary courses of treatment are pharmacological, dietary, and/or surgical, depending on several factors, including the areas of the brain affected and the severity of the epilepsy. There is a growing appreciation that sex differences in underlying brain function and in the neurobiology of epilepsy are important factors that should be accounted for in the design and development of new therapies. In this review, we discuss the current knowledge on sex differences in epilepsy and associated comorbidities, with emphasis on those aspects most informative for the development of new pharmacotherapies. Particular focus is placed on sex differences in the prevalence and presentation of various focal and generalized epilepsies; psychiatric, cognitive, and physiologic comorbidities; catamenial epilepsy in women; sex differences in brain development; the neural actions of sex and stress hormones and their metabolites; and cellular mechanisms, including brain-derived neurotrophic factor signaling and neuronal-glial interactions. Further attention placed on potential sex differences in epilepsies, comorbidities, and drug effects will enhance therapeutic options and efficacy for all patients with epilepsy. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: Epilepsy is a common neurological disorder that often presents together with various comorbidities. The features of epilepsy and seizure activity as well as comorbid afflictions can vary between men and women. In this review, we discuss sex differences in types of epilepsies, associated comorbidities, pathophysiological mechanisms, and antiepileptic drug efficacy in both clinical patient populations and preclinical animal models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine A Christian
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, Neuroscience Program, and Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois (C.A.C.); Department of Neuroscience and Experimental Therapeutics, College of Medicine, Texas A&M University Health Science Center, Bryan, Texas (D.S.R.); Neuroscience Department, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts (J.M.); and Departments of Pharmacology and Physiology and Neuroscience, Georgetown University, Washington, D.C. (P.A.F.)
| | - Doodipala Samba Reddy
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, Neuroscience Program, and Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois (C.A.C.); Department of Neuroscience and Experimental Therapeutics, College of Medicine, Texas A&M University Health Science Center, Bryan, Texas (D.S.R.); Neuroscience Department, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts (J.M.); and Departments of Pharmacology and Physiology and Neuroscience, Georgetown University, Washington, D.C. (P.A.F.)
| | - Jamie Maguire
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, Neuroscience Program, and Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois (C.A.C.); Department of Neuroscience and Experimental Therapeutics, College of Medicine, Texas A&M University Health Science Center, Bryan, Texas (D.S.R.); Neuroscience Department, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts (J.M.); and Departments of Pharmacology and Physiology and Neuroscience, Georgetown University, Washington, D.C. (P.A.F.)
| | - Patrick A Forcelli
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, Neuroscience Program, and Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois (C.A.C.); Department of Neuroscience and Experimental Therapeutics, College of Medicine, Texas A&M University Health Science Center, Bryan, Texas (D.S.R.); Neuroscience Department, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts (J.M.); and Departments of Pharmacology and Physiology and Neuroscience, Georgetown University, Washington, D.C. (P.A.F.)
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18
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Perez-Fernandez C, Morales-Navas M, Guardia-Escote L, Colomina MT, Giménez E, Sánchez-Santed F. Postnatal exposure to low doses of Chlorpyrifos induces long-term effects on 5C-SRTT learning and performance, cholinergic and GABAergic systems and BDNF expression. Exp Neurol 2020; 330:113356. [DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2020.113356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2020] [Revised: 04/13/2020] [Accepted: 05/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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19
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Mitsadali I, Grayson B, Idris NF, Watson L, Burgess M, Neill J. Aerobic exercise improves memory and prevents cognitive deficits of relevance to schizophrenia in an animal model. J Psychopharmacol 2020; 34:695-708. [PMID: 32431225 DOI: 10.1177/0269881120922963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES Cognitive impairment associated with schizophrenia (CIAS) greatly reduces patients' functionality, and remains an unmet clinical need. The sub-chronic phencyclidine (scPCP) rat model is commonly employed in studying CIAS. We have previously shown that voluntary exercise reverses impairments in novel object recognition (NOR) induced by scPCP. However, there has not been a longitudinal study investigating the potential protective effects of exercise in a model of CIAS. This study aimed to investigate the pro-cognitive and protective effects of exercise on CIAS using the translational NOR and attentional set-shifting tasks (ASST). METHODS Female Lister Hooded rats were either exercised (wheel running for one hour per day, five days per week, for six weeks; n=20) or not (n=20) and then tested in a natural-forgetting NOR test. Rats in each group were then administered either PCP (2 mg/kg intraperitoneally (i.p.)) or saline solution (1 mL/kg i.p.) for seven days, followed by seven days washout. Three NOR tests were conducted immediately and two and nine weeks after washout, and a natural-forgetting NOR test was carried out again eight weeks post washout. Rats were trained and tested in ASST from week 6 to week 10 post washout. RESULTS Non-exercised rats displayed a deficit in both of the natural-forgetting NOR tests, whereas exercised rats did not. The scPCP exercise group did not show the expected deficit in NOR at any time point, and had a significantly ameliorated deficit in the ASST compared to the scPCP control group. CONCLUSION Voluntary exercise has long-lasting pro-cognitive and protective effects in two cognitive domains. Exercise improves cognition and could provide protection against CIAS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Idil Mitsadali
- Division of Pharmacy and Optometry, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Biology and Health, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Ben Grayson
- Division of Pharmacy and Optometry, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Biology and Health, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Nagi F Idris
- Division of Pharmacy and Optometry, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Biology and Health, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Linzi Watson
- Division of Pharmacy and Optometry, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Biology and Health, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Matthew Burgess
- Division of Pharmacy and Optometry, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Biology and Health, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Joanna Neill
- Division of Pharmacy and Optometry, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Biology and Health, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
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20
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Tan Y, Fujita Y, Qu Y, Chang L, Pu Y, Wang S, Wang X, Hashimoto K. Phencyclidine-induced cognitive deficits in mice are ameliorated by subsequent repeated intermittent administration of (R)-ketamine, but not (S)-ketamine: Role of BDNF-TrkB signaling. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2019; 188:172839. [PMID: 31866390 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2019.172839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2019] [Revised: 12/17/2019] [Accepted: 12/17/2019] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
The N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) antagonists including phencyclidine (PCP) and ketamine produce cognitive deficits in rodents and humans. We previously reported that (R)-ketamine produced the beneficial effects compared to (S)-ketamine in several animal models including depression. Here we compared the effects of two enantiomers of ketamine on cognitive deficits in mice after repeated administration of PCP. PCP (10 mg/kg/day for 10 days)-induced cognitive deficits were ameliorated by subsequent repeated intermittent administration of (R)-ketamine (10 mg/kg/day, twice weekly for 2-weeks), but not (S)-ketamine. Western blot analysis showed decreased levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and decreased ratio of phosphorylated-TrkB (p-TrkB) to TrkB in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) and hippocampus of PCP-treated mice. Furthermore, PCP-induced reduction of BDNF and p-TrkB/TrkB ratio in the PFC and hippocampus of PCP-treated mice was ameliorated by subsequent intermittent administration of (R)-ketamine. Interestingly, the beneficial effects of (R)-ketamine were blocked by pretreatment with TrkB inhibitor ANA-12. These findings suggest that (R)-ketamine could ameliorate PCP-induced cognitive deficits via activation of BDNF-TrkB signaling in the brain. Therefore, (R)-ketamine could be a potential therapeutic drug for cognitive impairment in patients with schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunfei Tan
- Division of Clinical Neuroscience, Chiba University Center for Forensic Mental Health, Chiba, Japan
| | - Yuko Fujita
- Division of Clinical Neuroscience, Chiba University Center for Forensic Mental Health, Chiba, Japan
| | - Youge Qu
- Division of Clinical Neuroscience, Chiba University Center for Forensic Mental Health, Chiba, Japan
| | - Lijia Chang
- Division of Clinical Neuroscience, Chiba University Center for Forensic Mental Health, Chiba, Japan
| | - Yaoyu Pu
- Division of Clinical Neuroscience, Chiba University Center for Forensic Mental Health, Chiba, Japan
| | - Siming Wang
- Division of Clinical Neuroscience, Chiba University Center for Forensic Mental Health, Chiba, Japan
| | - Xingming Wang
- Division of Clinical Neuroscience, Chiba University Center for Forensic Mental Health, Chiba, Japan
| | - Kenji Hashimoto
- Division of Clinical Neuroscience, Chiba University Center for Forensic Mental Health, Chiba, Japan.
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21
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Doostdar N, Kim E, Grayson B, Harte MK, Neill JC, Vernon AC. Global brain volume reductions in a sub-chronic phencyclidine animal model for schizophrenia and their relationship to recognition memory. J Psychopharmacol 2019; 33:1274-1287. [PMID: 31060435 DOI: 10.1177/0269881119844196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cognitive deficits and structural brain changes co-occur in patients with schizophrenia. Improving our understanding of the relationship between these is important to develop improved therapeutic strategies. Back-translation of these findings into rodent models for schizophrenia offers a potential means to achieve this goal. AIMS The purpose of this study was to determine the extent of structural brain changes and how these relate to cognitive behaviour in a sub-chronic phencyclidine rat model. METHODS Performance in the novel object recognition task was examined in female Lister Hooded rats at one and six weeks after sub-chronic phencyclidine (2 mg/kg intra-peritoneal, n=15) and saline controls (1 ml/kg intra-peritoneal, n=15). Locomotor activity following acute phencyclidine challenge was also measured. Brain volume changes were assessed in the same animals using ex vivo structural magnetic resonance imaging and computational neuroanatomical analysis at six weeks. RESULTS Female sub-chronic phencyclidine-treated Lister Hooded rats spent significantly less time exploring novel objects (p<0.05) at both time-points and had significantly greater locomotor activity response to an acute phencyclidine challenge (p<0.01) at 3-4 weeks of washout. At six weeks, sub-chronic phencyclidine-treated Lister Hooded rats displayed significant global brain volume reductions (p<0.05; q<0.05), without apparent regional specificity. Relative volumes of the perirhinal cortex however were positively correlated with novel object exploration time only in sub-chronic phencyclidine rats at this time-point. CONCLUSION A sustained sub-chronic phencyclidine-induced cognitive deficit in novel object recognition is accompanied by global brain volume reductions in female Lister Hooded rats. The relative volumes of the perirhinal cortex however are positively correlated with novel object exploration, indicating some functional relevance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nazanin Doostdar
- Division of Pharmacy and Optometry, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Biology and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Eugene Kim
- Department of Neuroimaging, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Ben Grayson
- Division of Pharmacy and Optometry, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Biology and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Michael K Harte
- Division of Pharmacy and Optometry, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Biology and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Joanna C Neill
- Division of Pharmacy and Optometry, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Biology and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Anthony C Vernon
- Department of Basic and Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
- MRC Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, King's College London, London, UK
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22
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Kipnis PA, Sullivan BJ, Kadam SD. Sex-Dependent Signaling Pathways Underlying Seizure Susceptibility and the Role of Chloride Cotransporters. Cells 2019; 8:cells8050448. [PMID: 31085988 PMCID: PMC6562404 DOI: 10.3390/cells8050448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2019] [Revised: 05/04/2019] [Accepted: 05/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Seizure incidence, severity, and antiseizure medication (ASM) efficacy varies between males and females. Differences in sex-dependent signaling pathways that determine network excitability may be responsible. The identification and validation of sex-dependent molecular mechanisms that influence seizure susceptibility is an emerging focus of neuroscience research. The electroneutral cation-chloride cotransporters (CCCs) of the SLC12A gene family utilize Na+-K+-ATPase generated electrochemical gradients to transport chloride into or out of neurons. CCCs regulate neuronal chloride gradients, cell volume, and have a strong influence over the electrical response to the inhibitory neurotransmitter GABA. Acquired or genetic causes of CCCs dysfunction have been linked to seizures during early postnatal development, epileptogenesis, and refractoriness to ASMs. A growing number of studies suggest that the developmental expression of CCCs, such as KCC2, is sex-dependent. This review will summarize the reports of sexual dimorphism in epileptology while focusing on the role of chloride cotransporters and their associated modulators that can influence seizure susceptibility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pavel A Kipnis
- Neuroscience Laboratory, Hugo Moser Research Institute at Kennedy Krieger, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA.
| | - Brennan J Sullivan
- Neuroscience Laboratory, Hugo Moser Research Institute at Kennedy Krieger, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA.
| | - Shilpa D Kadam
- Neuroscience Laboratory, Hugo Moser Research Institute at Kennedy Krieger, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA.
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA.
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Dhawan SS, Tait DS, Brown VJ. More rapid reversal learning following overtraining in the rat is evidence that behavioural and cognitive flexibility are dissociable. Behav Brain Res 2019; 363:45-52. [PMID: 30710612 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2019.01.055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2018] [Revised: 01/29/2019] [Accepted: 01/29/2019] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Cognitive flexibility is a term used to describe the brain processes underlying the phenomenon of adaptive change in behaviour in response to changed contingencies in the internal or external environment. Cognitive flexibility is often assessed in complex tasks measuring perceptual attentional shifting or response or task switching, but, arguably, reversal learning is a simple assay of cognitive flexibility. Reversal learning requires the detection of a changed outcome, the cessation of a previously-rewarded response and the selection of an alternative, previously-unrewarded, response. This study addressed the issue of the relationship between reversal learning and cognitive flexibility. In a single testing session, rats completed a series of 2-alternative forced-choice discriminations between digging bowls. The bowls differed according to both the medium within the bowl and the odor of the bowl. Having learned which cue (one of the odors or one of the digging media) indicated the food-baited bowl, half the rats were given additional trials of "over-training". To test reversal learning, the meaning of the cues predictive of reward/non-reward was then switched. There was a robust effect of over-training, with over-trained rats performing reversal learning in fewer trials than rats trained to criterion only. The pattern of errors supported the hypothesis that more rapid reversing results from the formation of an attentional set. This is the same attentional mechanism that results in less rapid shifting or switching. We conclude that the behavioural flexibility demonstrated in reversal learning does not provide a scale on which cognitive flexibility can be measured.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandeep S Dhawan
- School of Psychology & Neuroscience, University of St Andrews, St Mary's Quad, South Street, St Andrews, KY16 9JP, UK
| | - David S Tait
- School of Psychology & Neuroscience, University of St Andrews, St Mary's Quad, South Street, St Andrews, KY16 9JP, UK
| | - Verity J Brown
- School of Psychology & Neuroscience, University of St Andrews, St Mary's Quad, South Street, St Andrews, KY16 9JP, UK.
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Cadinu D, Grayson B, Podda G, Harte MK, Doostdar N, Neill JC. NMDA receptor antagonist rodent models for cognition in schizophrenia and identification of novel drug treatments, an update. Neuropharmacology 2018; 142:41-62. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2017.11.045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2017] [Revised: 10/28/2017] [Accepted: 11/27/2017] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
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25
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Barha CK, Liu-Ambrose T, Best JR, Yaffe K, Rosano C. Sex-dependent effect of the BDNF Val66Met polymorphism on executive functioning and processing speed in older adults: evidence from the health ABC study. Neurobiol Aging 2018; 74:161-170. [PMID: 30448615 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurobiolaging.2018.10.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2018] [Revised: 10/14/2018] [Accepted: 10/16/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) Val66Met polymorphism may be an important source of heterogeneity seen in cognitive aging, although the specific relationship between this polymorphism and cognition remains controversial and may depend on the sex of participants. We assessed 2668 older black and white adults and fit linear mixed models to digit symbol substitution test (DSST) performance assessed in years 0 (baseline), 4, 7, and 9 to examine the interaction between sex and BDNF genotype on the intercept (i.e., estimated baseline DSST) and change in DSST over 9 years, adjusted for covariates. Sex interacted with BDNF genotype to predict DSST intercept (F[1,1599] = 7.4, p < 0.01) and 9-year change (F[1,1183] = 4.1, p = 0.04) in white participants only. Initially, white male Val/Val carriers had lower DSST scores (37.6, SE = 0.8) in comparison with male Met carriers (difference, -1.7; 95% CI, -3.2 to -0.3) and female Val/Val carriers (difference, -5.6; 95% CI, -6.8 to -4.3). White female Met carriers showed a slower rate of change (annual rate of change = -0.6, SE = 0.1) in comparison with female Val/Val carriers (difference, -0.2; 95% CI, -0.4 to -0.02) and male Met carriers (difference, -0.3; 95% CI, -0.5 to -0.02). Our findings suggest that BDNF Val66Met and sex should be considered in future endeavors aimed at treating or preventing neurodegenerative disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cindy K Barha
- Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health, Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute, Vancouver, Canada; Department of Physical Therapy, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada.
| | - Teresa Liu-Ambrose
- Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health, Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute, Vancouver, Canada; Department of Physical Therapy, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada; Centre for Hip Health and Mobility, Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute, Vancouver, Canada
| | - John R Best
- Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health, Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute, Vancouver, Canada; Department of Physical Therapy, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Kristine Yaffe
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, USA; Departments of Psychiatry and Neurology, University of California, San Francisco, USA
| | - Caterina Rosano
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, USA
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26
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Fernandes LM, Cartágenes SC, Barros MA, Carvalheiro TC, Castro NC, Schamne MG, Lima RR, Prediger RD, Monteiro MC, Fontes-Júnior EA, Cunha RA, Maia CS. Repeated cycles of binge-like ethanol exposure induce immediate and delayed neurobehavioral changes and hippocampal dysfunction in adolescent female rats. Behav Brain Res 2018; 350:99-108. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2018.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2018] [Revised: 05/07/2018] [Accepted: 05/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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Sex-specific differences in corticosterone secretion, behavioral phenotypes and expression of TrkB.T1 and TrkB.FL receptor isoforms: Impact of systemic TrkB inhibition and combinatory stress exposure in adolescence. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2018; 86:10-23. [PMID: 29753050 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2018.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2017] [Revised: 04/04/2018] [Accepted: 05/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Stress exposure has been implicated in the development of mood disorders, although little is known about the lasting effects of repeated stress during the adolescent period on sex-specific differences in endocrine and plasticity-signaling responses in adulthood. Using a 10-day combinatory stress paradigm (postnatal day (PND) 26 to 35), we examined sex-specific impact of adolescent stress and inhibition of tyrosine-related kinase B (TrkB) receptor (ANA-12; 0.5 mg/kg, i.p.) on 1) adolescent blood corticosterone levels, 2) adult locomotion and anxiety-like behavior, and 3) region-specific differences in endogenous TrkB full-length (TrkB.FL) and truncated (TrkB.T1) receptor isoforms. Blood collected on days 1, 5 and 10 revealed elevated basal and stress-induced CORT secretion in females compared to males, while ANA-12 attenuated CORT elevations post stress in both sexes. As adults, all females exhibited higher locomotor and exploratory activity than males in the open field test and elevated plus maze, and differences were comparable in the forced swim within stress-naïve and stress groups. Biochemically, vehicle-treated males showed elevated TrkB.T1 and TrkB.FL compared to vehicle-treated females in the PFC, hippocampus and NAc, and levels were consistently attenuated by ANA-12 treatment in non-stress males. With regards to stress exposure, expression of both isoforms was strongly down-regulated in the NAc of males only and was associated with increased TrkB.T1 in the PFC. ANA-12 enhanced expression in females, independent of stress exposure, compared to vehicle-treated counterparts, expression being increased for TrkB.T1 versus TrkB.FL and magnitude of the changes being region-specific. In contrast, ANA-12 effects in stressed males were restricted to inhibition of both isoforms in the hippocampus. Together, our findings support that TrkB activation, contingent on stress exposure, differentially affects TrkB isoform regulation during adulthood. Sex-specific biochemical responses at delayed intervals following adolescent stress exposure further support the need to include the sex variable in animal models.
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Tait DS, Bowman EM, Neuwirth LS, Brown VJ. Assessment of intradimensional/extradimensional attentional set-shifting in rats. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2018; 89:72-84. [PMID: 29474818 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2018.02.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2017] [Revised: 02/06/2018] [Accepted: 02/19/2018] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
The rat intradimensional/extradimensional (ID/ED) task, first described by Birrell and Brown 18 years ago, has become the predominant means by which attentional set-shifting is investigated in rodents: the use of rats in the task has been described in over 135 publications by researchers from nearly 90 universities and pharmaceutical companies. There is variation in the protocols used by different groups, including differences in apparatus, stimuli (both stimulus dimensions and exemplars within), and also the methodology. Nevertheless, most of these variations seem to be of little consequence: there is remarkable similarity in the profile of published data, with consistency of learning rates and in the size and reliability of the set-shifting and reversal 'costs'. However, we suspect that there may be inconsistent data that is unpublished or perhaps 'failed experiments' that may have been caused by unintended deviations from effective protocols. The purpose of this review is to describe our approach and the rationale behind certain aspects of the protocol, including common pitfalls that are encountered when establishing an effective local protocol.
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Affiliation(s)
- David S Tait
- School of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of St Andrews, St Mary's Quad, South Street, St Andrews, Fife, KY16 9JP, UK.
| | - Eric M Bowman
- School of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of St Andrews, St Mary's Quad, South Street, St Andrews, Fife, KY16 9JP, UK
| | - Lorenz S Neuwirth
- Department of Psychology, SUNY Old Westbury, Old Westbury, NY, 11568, USA; SUNY Neuroscience Research Institute, Old Westbury, NY, 11568, USA
| | - Verity J Brown
- School of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of St Andrews, St Mary's Quad, South Street, St Andrews, Fife, KY16 9JP, UK
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29
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Chan CB, Ye K. Sex differences in brain-derived neurotrophic factor signaling and functions. J Neurosci Res 2017; 95:328-335. [PMID: 27870419 DOI: 10.1002/jnr.23863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 115] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2016] [Revised: 05/27/2016] [Accepted: 07/11/2016] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is a member of the neurotrophin family that plays a critical role in numerous neuronal activities. Recent studies have indicated that some functions or action mechanisms of BDNF vary in a sex-dependent manner. In particular, BDNF content in some brain parts and the tendency to develop BDNF deficiency-related diseases such as depression are greater in female animals. With the support of relevant studies, it has been suggested that sex hormones or steroids can modulate the activities of BDNF, which may account for its functional discrepancy in different sexes. Indeed, the cross-talk between BDNF and sex steroids has been detected for decades, and some sex steroids, such as estrogen, have a positive regulatory effect on BDNF expression and signaling. Thus, the sex of animal models that are used in studying the functions of BDNF is critical. This Mini-Review summarizes our current findings on the differences in expression, signaling, and functions of BDNF between sexes. We also discuss the potential mechanisms for mediating these differential responses, with a specific emphasis on sex steroids. By presenting and discussing these findings, we seek to encourage researchers to take sex influences into consideration when designing experiments, interpreting results, and drawing conclusions. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chi Bun Chan
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Keqiang Ye
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, USA
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McGregor C, Riordan A, Thornton J. Estrogens and the cognitive symptoms of schizophrenia: Possible neuroprotective mechanisms. Front Neuroendocrinol 2017; 47:19-33. [PMID: 28673758 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2017.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2016] [Revised: 06/25/2017] [Accepted: 06/27/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Schizophrenia is a complex neuropsychiatric illness with marked sex differences. Women have later onset and lesser symptoms, which has led to the hypothesis that estrogens are protective in schizophrenia. Cognitive dysfunction is a hallmark of the disease and the symptom most correlated with functional outcome. Here we describe a number of mechanisms by which estrogens may be therapeutic in schizophrenia, with a focus on cognitive symptoms. We review the relationship between estrogens and brain derived neurotrophic factor, neuroinflammation, NMDA receptors, GABA receptors, and luteinizing hormone. Exploring these pathways may enable novel treatments for schizophrenia and a greater understanding of this devastating disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claire McGregor
- Department of Neuroscience, Oberlin College, 119 Woodland St, Oberlin, OH 44074, USA.
| | - Alexander Riordan
- Department of Neuroscience, Oberlin College, 119 Woodland St, Oberlin, OH 44074, USA
| | - Janice Thornton
- Department of Neuroscience, Oberlin College, 119 Woodland St, Oberlin, OH 44074, USA
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Asif-Malik A, Dautan D, Young AMJ, Gerdjikov TV. Altered cortico-striatal crosstalk underlies object recognition memory deficits in the sub-chronic phencyclidine model of schizophrenia. Brain Struct Funct 2017; 222:3179-3190. [PMID: 28293729 PMCID: PMC5585296 DOI: 10.1007/s00429-017-1393-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2016] [Accepted: 02/22/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The neural mechanisms underlying cognitive deficits in schizophrenia are poorly understood. Sub-chronic treatment with the NMDA antagonist phencyclidine (PCP) produces cognitive abnormalities in rodents that reliably model aspects of the neurocognitive alterations observed in schizophrenia. Given that network activity across regions encompassing medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) and nucleus accumbens (NAc) plays a significant role in motivational and cognitive tasks, we measured activity across cortico-striatal pathways in PCP-treated rats to characterize neural enabling and encoding of task performance in a novel object recognition task. We found that PCP treatment impaired task performance and concurrently (1) reduced tonic NAc neuronal activity, (2) desynchronized cross-activation of mPFC and NAc neurons, and (3) prevented the increase in mPFC and NAc neural activity associated with the exploration of a novel object in relation to a familiar object. Taken together, these observations reveal key neuronal and network-level adaptations underlying PCP-induced cognitive deficits, which may contribute to the emergence of cognitive abnormalities in schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aman Asif-Malik
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology and Behaviour, University of Leicester, Leicester, LE1 9HN, UK
| | - Daniel Dautan
- Center for Molecular and Behavioral Neuroscience, Rutgers University, Newark, NJ, USA
| | - Andrew M J Young
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology and Behaviour, University of Leicester, Leicester, LE1 9HN, UK
| | - Todor V Gerdjikov
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology and Behaviour, University of Leicester, Leicester, LE1 9HN, UK.
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Sexual dimorphic expression of TrkB, TrkB-T1, and BDNF in the medial preoptic area of the Syrian hamster. Brain Res 2017; 1669:122-125. [PMID: 28606780 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2017.06.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2017] [Revised: 05/16/2017] [Accepted: 06/06/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Neurotrophins regulate many aspects of neuronal function and activity. Specifically, the binding of Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) to Tyrosine receptor kinase-B (TrkB) or its truncated version, TrkB-T1, can cause growth and differentiation or dominant inhibition of receptor signaling, respectively. There is evidence that these neurotropic effects on nervous tissue, in both the central and peripheral nervous system, behave differently between the sexes. This study used western blots to examine the expression of these neurotrophins in the medial preoptic area (MPOA), a sexually dimorphic region of the hamster brain that controls male sex behavior. We report that TrkB-FL and BDNF show greater expression in male MPOA tissue, when compared to female. On the contrary, TrkB-T1 is expressed in greater abundance in the female MPOA. Our results indicate a clear sexual dimorphism of neurotrophins in the MPOA of the Syrian hamster. Furthermore, the greater expression of TrkB-FL and BDNF in the male MPOA suggests that these neurotrophins could be promoting synaptic growth to facilitate male-typical copulation. In contrast, the greater TrkB-T1 expression in the female MPOA suggests a possible inhibition of synaptic growth, and may contribute to the lack of male-typical copulation. Altogether, our data suggests that neurotrophins may play a larger role sexual differentiation than previously thought.
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Calabrese F, Savino E, Mocaer E, Bretin S, Racagni G, Riva MA. Upregulation of neurotrophins by S 47445, a novel positive allosteric modulator of AMPA receptors in aged rats. Pharmacol Res 2017; 121:59-69. [PMID: 28442348 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2017.04.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2017] [Revised: 04/13/2017] [Accepted: 04/14/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
At molecular levels, it has been shown that aging is associated with alterations in neuroplastic mechanisms. In this study, it was examined if the altered expression of neurotrophins observed in aged rats could be corrected by a chronic treatment with S 47445 (1-3-10mg/kg, p.o.), a novel selective positive allosteric modulator of the AMPA receptors. Both the mRNA and the protein levels of the neurotrophins Bdnf, NT-3 and Ngf were specifically measured in the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus (ventral and dorsal) of aged rats. It was found that 2-week-treatment with S 47445 corrected the age-related deficits of these neurotrophins and/or positively modulated their expression in comparison to vehicle aged rats in the range of procognitive and antidepressant active doses in rodents. Collectively, the ability of S 47445 to modulate various neurotrophins demonstrated its neurotrophic properties in two major brain structures involved in cognition and mood regulation suggesting its therapeutic potential for improving several diseases such as Alzheimer's disease and/or Major Depressive Disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Calabrese
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Universita' degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Elisa Savino
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Universita' degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Elisabeth Mocaer
- Neuropsychiatric Innovation Therapeutic Pole, Institut de Recherches Internationales Servier, Suresnes, France
| | - Sylvie Bretin
- Neuropsychiatric Innovation Therapeutic Pole, Institut de Recherches Internationales Servier, Suresnes, France
| | - Giorgio Racagni
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Universita' degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Marco A Riva
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Universita' degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy.
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Abstract
Schizophrenia is a severe disorder affecting approximately 1% of the population. Historically, alterations of dopaminergic function were considered the primary cause of schizophrenia. However, for many patients, drugs that alter dopaminergic function do not consistently lead to resolution of the symptoms of schizophrenia. Thus, there is an increased interest in pathophysiologic processes that result in altered neurodevelopment and plasticity associated with schizophrenia. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is a neurotrophin involved in neurogenesis, synaptic plasticity, cognition, and neurotransmission. Genetic polymorphism, expression, and function of BDNF have been implicated in psychiatric diseases, including schizophrenia. This review discusses BDNF, its role in neurologic processes, and the evidence implicating BDNF in schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica L Gören
- Associate Professor, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, Rhode Island; Senior Clinical Pharmacist Specialist, Cambridge Health Alliance, Cambridge, Massachusetts; Instructor in Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts,
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35
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Reynolds GP, Neill JC. Modelling the cognitive and neuropathological features of schizophrenia with phencyclidine. J Psychopharmacol 2016; 30:1141-1144. [PMID: 27624147 DOI: 10.1177/0269881116667668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Here, Reynolds and Neill describe the studies that preceded and followed publication of this paper, which reported a deficit in parvalbumin (PV), a calcium-binding protein found in GABA interneurons known to be reduced in schizophrenia patients, in conjunction with a deficit in reversal learning in an animal model for schizophrenia. This publication resulted from common research interests: Reynolds in the neurotransmitter pathology of schizophrenia, and Neill in developing animal models for schizophrenia symptomatology. The animal model, using a sub-chronic dosing regimen (sc) with the non-competitive NMDA receptor antagonist PCP (phencyclidine), evolved from previous work in rats (for PCP) and primates (for cognition). The hypothesis of a PV deficit came from emerging evidence for a GABAergic dysfunction in schizophrenia, in particular a deficit in PV-containing GABA interneurons. Since this original publication, a PV deficit has been identified in other animal models for schizophrenia, and the PV field has expanded considerably. This includes mechanistic work attempting to identify the link between oxidative stress and GABAergic dysfunction using this scPCP model, and assessment of the potential of the PV neuron as a target for new antipsychotic drugs. The latter has included development of a molecule targeting KV3.1 channels located on PV-containing GABA interneurons which can restore both PV expression and cognitive deficits in the scPCP model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gavin P Reynolds
- Sheffield Hallam University, Biomolecular Sciences Research Centre, Sheffield, UK
| | - Joanna C Neill
- Manchester Pharmacy School, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
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36
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A systematic review comparing sex differences in cognitive function in schizophrenia and in rodent models for schizophrenia, implications for improved therapeutic strategies. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2016; 68:979-1000. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2016.06.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2015] [Revised: 06/11/2016] [Accepted: 06/20/2016] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
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37
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Sex differences in animal models of schizophrenia shed light on the underlying pathophysiology. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2016; 67:41-56. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2015.10.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2015] [Revised: 09/28/2015] [Accepted: 10/26/2015] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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38
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Cossio R, Carreira MB, Vásquez CE, Britton GB. Sex differences and estrous cycle effects on foreground contextual fear conditioning. Physiol Behav 2016; 163:305-311. [PMID: 27195460 DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2016.05.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2015] [Revised: 05/13/2016] [Accepted: 05/15/2016] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ricardo Cossio
- Centro de Neurociencias, Instituto de Investigaciones Científicas y Servicios de Alta Tecnología (INDICASAT AIP), Ciudad del Saber, Panama
| | - María B Carreira
- Centro de Neurociencias, Instituto de Investigaciones Científicas y Servicios de Alta Tecnología (INDICASAT AIP), Ciudad del Saber, Panama
| | - Carol E Vásquez
- Centro de Neurociencias, Instituto de Investigaciones Científicas y Servicios de Alta Tecnología (INDICASAT AIP), Ciudad del Saber, Panama; Department of Biotechnology, AcharyaNagarjuna University, Guntur, India
| | - Gabrielle B Britton
- Centro de Neurociencias, Instituto de Investigaciones Científicas y Servicios de Alta Tecnología (INDICASAT AIP), Ciudad del Saber, Panama.
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Hill XL, Richeri A, Scorza C. Measure of anxiety-related behaviors and hippocampal BDNF levels associated to the amnesic effect induced by MK-801 evaluated in the modified elevated plus-maze in rats. Physiol Behav 2015; 147:359-63. [DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2015.05.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2014] [Revised: 05/04/2015] [Accepted: 05/15/2015] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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40
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Pase CS, Teixeira AM, Roversi K, Dias VT, Calabrese F, Molteni R, Franchi S, Panerai AE, Riva MA, Burger ME. Olive oil-enriched diet reduces brain oxidative damages and ameliorates neurotrophic factor gene expression in different life stages of rats. J Nutr Biochem 2015; 26:1200-7. [PMID: 26168701 DOI: 10.1016/j.jnutbio.2015.05.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2014] [Revised: 05/12/2015] [Accepted: 05/22/2015] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Our aim was to assess the influence of maternal diet rich in monounsaturated fatty acids on oxidative and molecular parameters in brains of mouse pups as well as their body weight during their lifetime. Female rats received a diet containing 20% of olive oil-enriched diet (OOED) and a standard diet control diet (CD) in different periods: pregnancy, lactation and after weaning until pups' adulthood. On the last prenatal day (Group 1), embryos from OOED group showed smaller body weight, brain weight and lower levels of sulphydryl groups glutathione reduced (GSH) in the brain. On postnatal delay-21 (PND21) (Group 2), pups from OOED group showed higher body weight and brain weight, reduced brain weight/body weight ratio and lower brain lipid peroxidation (LP). On PND70 (Group 3), pups from OOED group showed lower brain LP and higher levels of GSH in prefrontal cortex and lower brain levels of reactive species in the hippocampus. Interestingly, the group of animals whose diet was modified from OOED to CD on PND21 showed greater weight gain compared to the group that remained in the same original diet (OOED) until adulthood. Furthermore, OOED consumption during pregnancy and lactation significantly increased BDNF only, as well as its main transcripts exon IV and VI mRNA levels in the prefrontal cortex. In addition, OOED significantly up-regulated FGF-2 mRNA levels in the prefrontal cortex. These findings open a pioneering line of investigation about dietary adjunctive therapeutic strategies and the potential of healthy dietary habits to prevent neonatal conditions and their influence on adulthood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camila Simonetti Pase
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Farmacologia-Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, RS, Brazil
| | | | - Karine Roversi
- Departamento de Fisiologia e Farmacologia-Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, RS, Brazil
| | - Verônica Tironi Dias
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Farmacologia-Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, RS, Brazil
| | - Francesca Calabrese
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences-University of Milan, Italy
| | - Raffaella Molteni
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences-University of Milan, Italy
| | - Silvia Franchi
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences-University of Milan, Italy
| | | | - Marco Andrea Riva
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences-University of Milan, Italy
| | - Marilise Escobar Burger
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Farmacologia-Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, RS, Brazil; Departamento de Fisiologia e Farmacologia-Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, RS, Brazil.
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Sex-specific alterations in behavioral and cognitive functions in a “three hit” animal model of schizophrenia. Behav Brain Res 2015; 284:85-93. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2015.02.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2015] [Revised: 02/04/2015] [Accepted: 02/06/2015] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
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Adachi N, Numakawa T, Richards M, Nakajima S, Kunugi H. New insight in expression, transport, and secretion of brain-derived neurotrophic factor: Implications in brain-related diseases. World J Biol Chem 2014; 5:409-428. [PMID: 25426265 PMCID: PMC4243146 DOI: 10.4331/wjbc.v5.i4.409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 116] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2014] [Revised: 06/10/2014] [Accepted: 08/31/2014] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) attracts increasing attention from both research and clinical fields because of its important functions in the central nervous system. An adequate amount of BDNF is critical to develop and maintain normal neuronal circuits in the brain. Given that loss of BDNF function has been reported in the brains of patients with neurodegenerative or psychiatric diseases, understanding basic properties of BDNF and associated intracellular processes is imperative. In this review, we revisit the gene structure, transcription, translation, transport and secretion mechanisms of BDNF. We also introduce implications of BDNF in several brain-related diseases including Alzheimer’s disease, Huntington’s disease, depression and schizophrenia.
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Serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor and nerve growth factor decreased in chronic ketamine abusers. Drug Alcohol Depend 2014; 142:290-4. [PMID: 25064020 PMCID: PMC4888958 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2014.06.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2014] [Revised: 05/23/2014] [Accepted: 06/28/2014] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
AIMS This study investigated the serum levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and nerve growth factor (NGF) in a group of chronic ketamine abusers in comparison to healthy controls. The correlations between the serum BDNF, NGF level with the subjects' demographic, pattern of ketamine use were also examined. METHODS 93 subjects who met the criteria of ketamine dependence and 39 healthy subjects were recruited. Serum BDNF and NGF levels were assayed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Psychopathological symptoms were assessed using Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS), Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) and Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI). RESULTS Both serum levels of BDNF and NGF were significant lower in the ketamine users compared to the healthy control subjects (9.50±6.68 versus 14.37±6.07 ng/ml, p=0.019 for BDNF; 1.93±0.80 versus 2.60±1.07 ng/ml, p=0.011 for NGF). BDNF level was negatively associated with current frequency of ketamine use (r=-0.209, p=0.045). CONCLUSIONS Both BDNF and NGF serum concentrations were significantly lower among chronic ketamine users than among health controls.
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Kokras N, Dalla C. Sex differences in animal models of psychiatric disorders. Br J Pharmacol 2014; 171:4595-619. [PMID: 24697577 DOI: 10.1111/bph.12710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 233] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2013] [Revised: 03/20/2014] [Accepted: 03/26/2014] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Psychiatric disorders are characterized by sex differences in their prevalence, symptomatology and treatment response. Animal models have been widely employed for the investigation of the neurobiology of such disorders and the discovery of new treatments. However, mostly male animals have been used in preclinical pharmacological studies. In this review, we highlight the need for the inclusion of both male and female animals in experimental studies aiming at gender-oriented prevention, diagnosis and treatment of psychiatric disorders. We present behavioural findings on sex differences from animal models of depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, substance-related disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and autism. Moreover, when available, we include studies conducted across different stages of the oestrous cycle. By inspection of the relevant literature, it is obvious that robust sex differences exist in models of all psychiatric disorders. However, many times results are conflicting, and no clear conclusion regarding the direction of sex differences and the effect of the oestrous cycle is drawn. Moreover, there is a lack of considerable amount of studies using psychiatric drugs in both male and female animals, in order to evaluate the differential response between the two sexes. Notably, while in most cases animal models successfully mimic drug response in both sexes, test parameters and treatment-sensitive behavioural indices are not always the same for male and female rodents. Thus, there is an increasing need to validate animal models for both sexes and use standard procedures across different laboratories.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Kokras
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School, University of Athens, Greece; First Department of Psychiatry, Eginition Hospital, Medical School, University of Athens, Greece
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Gaskin PLR, Alexander SPH, Fone KCF. Neonatal phencyclidine administration and post-weaning social isolation as a dual-hit model of 'schizophrenia-like' behaviour in the rat. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2014; 231:2533-45. [PMID: 24402141 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-013-3424-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2013] [Accepted: 12/16/2013] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
RATIONALE Schizophrenia is a debilitating disorder comprising positive, negative and cognitive deficits with a poorly defined neurobiological aetiology; therefore, animal models with greater translational reliability are essential to develop improved therapies. OBJECTIVES This study combines two developmental challenges in rats, neonatal phencyclidine (PCP) injection and subsequent rearing in social isolation from weaning, to attempt to produce more robust behavioural deficits with greater translational relevance to schizophrenia than either challenge alone. METHODS Forty-two male Lister-hooded rat pups received the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonist, phencyclidine (PCP, 10 mg/kg, s.c.), or vehicle on post-natal day (PND) 7, 9 and 11 and were weaned on PND 23 into group housing (saline-treated n = 11 or PCP-treated n = 10) or isolation (saline n = 10 or PCP n = 11). Six weeks post-weaning, novelty- and PCP-induced (3.2 mg/kg) locomotor activity, novel object discrimination, prepulse inhibition of acoustic startle and contextual memory in a conditioned emotion response (CER) were recorded. RESULTS Isolation rearing alone significantly elevated baseline locomotor activity and induced visual recognition memory impairment in novel object discrimination. Neonatal PCP treatment did not induce locomotor sensitisation to a subsequent acute PCP injection, but it impaired prepulse inhibition when combined with isolation rearing. CER freezing behaviour was significantly reduced by isolation rearing but an even greater effect occurred when combined with neonatal PCP treatment. CONCLUSIONS Neonatal PCP and isolation rearing both produce behavioural deficits in adult rats, but combined treatment caused a wider range of more severe cognitive impairments, providing a more comprehensive preclinical model to determine the neurobiological aetiology of schizophrenia than either treatment alone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip L R Gaskin
- School of Life Sciences, Medical School, Queen's Medical Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, NG7 2UH, UK
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A novel analog of olanzapine linked to sarcosinyl moiety (PGW5) demonstrates high efficacy and good safety profile in mouse models of schizophrenia. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol 2014; 24:425-36. [PMID: 24389121 DOI: 10.1016/j.euroneuro.2013.11.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2013] [Revised: 11/18/2013] [Accepted: 11/19/2013] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Schizophrenia is a chronic mental disorder related to hypo-functioning of glutamatergic neurotransmission. N-methyl-D-aspartate-receptor (NMDA-R) positive modulators were reported to reduce schizophrenia symptoms. However, their efficacy is low and inconsistent. We developed a novel antipsychotic possessing an olanzapine moiety linked to the positive modulator of glutamate NMDA-R sarcosine (PGW5) and characterized the pharmacodynamic properties of the novel molecule in-vivo using MK-801 and in-vitro using receptor binding analysis. We investigated the pharmacological activity of PGW5 (olanzapine linked to sarcosinyl moiety) in male mice (BALB/c or C57BL). In an open field test, up to 50mg/kg PGW5 did not affect motility while higher doses were sedative. PGW5 (25-50mg/kg po) antagonized MK-801 (0.15 mg/kg ip) and amphetamine-induced (5mg/kg ip) hyperactivity. PGW5 (25mg/kg po/d) treatment for 15 or 22 days exhibited antidepressant and anxiolytic activity in mice. Moreover, PGW5, but not olanzapine, attenuated phencyclidine (PCP)-induced deficits of social preference in mice and promoted the expression of brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in the hippocampus and the frontal cortex and glutamic acid decarboxylase (GAD67) in the hippocampus. Mice treated with PGW5 (25 and 50mg/kg/d) for 28 days did not show toxic effects in terms of weight gain and blood-chemistry analysis. CONCLUSIONS PGW5 is a novel and safe antipsychotic, efficacious against schizophrenia-like positive and negative symptoms at nonsedative doses. The drug shows anxiolytic and antidepressant activity, and improves impaired social performance in phencyclidine (PCP) treated mice. The mechanism underlying its activity seems to involve potentiation of NMDA receptor as well as stimulation of brain BDNF and GAD67 expression.
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Katanuma Y, Numakawa T, Adachi N, Yamamoto N, Ooshima Y, Odaka H, Inoue T, Kunugi H. Phencyclidine rapidly decreases neuronal mRNA of brain-derived neurotrophic factor. Synapse 2014; 68:257-65. [PMID: 24615983 DOI: 10.1002/syn.21735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2013] [Accepted: 02/07/2014] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Downregulation of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a member of neurotrophin family, has been implicated in psychiatric diseases including schizophrenia. However, detailed mechanisms of its reduction in patients with schizophrenia remain unclear. Here, using cultured cortical neurons, we monitored BDNF mRNA levels following acute application of phencyclidine [PCP; an N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptor blocker], which is known to produce schizophrenia-like symptoms. We found that PCP rapidly caused a reduction in total amount of BDNF transcripts without effect on cell viability, while mRNA levels of nerve growth factor was intact. Actinomycin-D (ActD), an RNA synthesis inhibitor, decreased total BDNF mRNA levels similar to PCP, and coapplication of ActD with PCP did not show further reduction in BDNF mRNA compared with solo application of each drug. Among BDNF exons I, IV, and VI, the exon IV, which is positively regulated by neuronal activity, was highly sensitive to PCP. Furthermore, PCP inactivated cAMP response element-binding protein (CREB; a regulator of transcriptional activity of exon IV). The inactivation of CREB was also achieved by an inhibitor for Ca(2+) /calmodulin kinase II (CaMKII), although coapplication with PCP induced no further inhibition on the CREB activity. It is possible that PCP decreases BDNF transcription via blocking the NMDA receptor/CaMKII/CREB signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yusuke Katanuma
- Department of Mental Disorder Research, National Institute of Neuroscience, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Tokyo, Japan; Department of Life Science and Medical Bioscience, School of Advanced Science and Engineering, Waseda University, Tokyo, Japan
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Perreault ML, Fan T, O'Dowd BF, George SR. Enhanced brain-derived neurotrophic factor signaling in the nucleus accumbens of juvenile rats. Dev Neurosci 2013; 35:384-95. [PMID: 24021607 DOI: 10.1159/000351026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2012] [Accepted: 03/28/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) signaling through its receptor, tropomyosin receptor kinase B (TrkB), plays a critical role in neural plasticity and its dysregulation in striatum and prefrontal cortex (PFC) has been implicated in the etiology of mental health disorders such schizophrenia and drug addiction. In the present study, we characterized age-dependent differences in BDNF signaling and TrkB expression within the nucleus accumbens (NAc), caudate putamen (CP) and PFC in rats and determined the effects of administration of the dopamine agonist, SKF 83959, which activates the Gq-coupled dopamine receptors, the dopamine D5 receptor and the D1-D2 receptor heteromer. As proBDNF binds with high affinity to the p75 neurotrophin receptor (p75NTR), expression levels of these proteins were also assessed. The present findings showed that juvenile rats (aged 26-28 days) exhibited significantly elevated basal BDNF expression and activation of full-length TrkB (TrkBfull) in NAc compared to their adult counterparts, as evidenced by increased TrkBfull phosphorylation. These changes were concomitant with an increase in the relative expression of TrkBfull compared to the truncated isoform, TrkB.T1, in NAc and CP. Conversely, in PFC the basal expression of BDNF in juvenile rats was significantly lower than in adult rats with an elevated relative expression of TrkBfull. Acute administration of SKF 83959 to juvenile rats abolished the age-dependent differences in BDNF expression in NAc and PFC, and in the relative expression of TrkBfull in NAc and CP. Together these findings indicate that the expression and/or signaling of BDNF and TrkB in striatum and PFC of juvenile rats is fundamentally different from that of adult rats, a finding that may have implications in neuropsychiatric disorders that exhibit age-dependent susceptibility such as schizophrenia and drug addiction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa L Perreault
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Departments of Pharmacology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ont., Canada
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Zhai J, Yu Q, Chen M, Gao Y, Zhang Q, Li J, Wang K, Ji F, Su Z, Li W, Li X, Qiao J. Association of the brain-derived neurotrophic factor gene G196A rs6265 polymorphisms and the cognitive function and clinical symptoms of schizophrenia. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF CLINICAL AND EXPERIMENTAL PATHOLOGY 2013; 6:1617-1623. [PMID: 23923080 PMCID: PMC3726978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2013] [Accepted: 07/03/2013] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED This study aimed to explore the association between BDNF G196A gene rs6265 polymorphisms and the cognitive function and clinical symptoms of schizophrenia. METHODS BDNF G196A rs6265 genotype and allele frequency were measured using Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) methods in 224 drug-free patients with schizophrenia and 220 controls. Psychotic symptoms were assessed using the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS), and cognitive functioning was assessed using the Wisconsin Card Sorting Test (WCST) and the Trail Making Test (TMT). In the patient group, differences in severity of symptoms across the three genotypes (i.e., G/G, G/A and A/A) of G196A were assessed using one-way analysis of variance. RESULTS G/A genotype had higher frequencies than GG or AA genotype in both patients and controls. There was no significant difference in G/G, G/A, A/A genotype frequency between patients and controls (P > 0.05). The allele G had higher frequencies than allele A in both patients and controls. There was no significant difference in G or A allele frequency between patients and controls (P > 0.05). There was significant difference in A/A genotype frequency between positive group patients and negative group patients. There was no significant difference in cognitive performance between patients with G/G, G/A and A/A genotype (all P > 0.05). CONCLUSION BDNF G196A gene rs6265 polymorphism is not associated with the cognitive function but with the clinical symptoms of schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinguo Zhai
- School of Mental Health, Jining Medical University#16 Hehua Road, Jining 272067, Shandong Province, PR China
| | - Qing Yu
- Department of Psychiatry, the Second Affiliated Hospital, Jining Medical University#1 Jidai Road, Jining 272051, Shandong Province, PR China
| | - Min Chen
- School of Mental Health, Jining Medical University#16 Hehua Road, Jining 272067, Shandong Province, PR China
| | - Yan Gao
- School of Mental Health, Jining Medical University#16 Hehua Road, Jining 272067, Shandong Province, PR China
| | - Qiumei Zhang
- School of Mental Health, Jining Medical University#16 Hehua Road, Jining 272067, Shandong Province, PR China
| | - Jun Li
- State Key Laboratory of Cognitive Neuroscience and Learning, Beijing Normal University#19 Xinjiekouwai Street, Haidian District, Beijing 100875, PR China
| | - Keqin Wang
- School of Mental Health, Jining Medical University#16 Hehua Road, Jining 272067, Shandong Province, PR China
| | - Feng Ji
- School of Mental Health, Jining Medical University#16 Hehua Road, Jining 272067, Shandong Province, PR China
| | - Zhonghua Su
- Department of Psychiatry, the Second Affiliated Hospital, Jining Medical University#1 Jidai Road, Jining 272051, Shandong Province, PR China
| | - Wu Li
- Department of Psychiatry, the Second Affiliated Hospital, Jining Medical University#1 Jidai Road, Jining 272051, Shandong Province, PR China
| | - Xuemei Li
- School of Mental Health, Jining Medical University#16 Hehua Road, Jining 272067, Shandong Province, PR China
| | - Juyao Qiao
- School of Mental Health, Jining Medical University#16 Hehua Road, Jining 272067, Shandong Province, PR China
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Wu Y, Hill R, Gogos A, van den Buuse M. Sex differences and the role of estrogen in animal models of schizophrenia: Interaction with BDNF. Neuroscience 2013; 239:67-83. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2012.10.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2012] [Revised: 10/08/2012] [Accepted: 10/09/2012] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
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