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Zhang Y, Ma H, Bai Y, Hou X, Yang Y, Wang G, Li Y. Chronic Neuropathic Pain and Comorbid Depression Syndrome: From Neural Circuit Mechanisms to Treatment. ACS Chem Neurosci 2024; 15:2432-2444. [PMID: 38916052 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.4c00125] [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] [Indexed: 06/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Chronic neuropathic pain and comorbid depression syndrome (CDS) is a major worldwide health problem that affects the quality of life of patients and imposes a tremendous socioeconomic burden. More than half of patients with chronic neuropathic pain also suffer from moderate or severe depression. Due to the complex pathogenesis of CDS, there are no effective therapeutic drugs available. The lack of research on the neural circuit mechanisms of CDS limits the development of treatments. The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the various circuits involved in CDS. Notably, activating some neural circuits can alleviate pain and/or depression, while activating other circuits can exacerbate these conditions. Moreover, we discuss current and emerging pharmacotherapies for CDS, such as ketamine. Understanding the circuit mechanisms of CDS may provide clues for the development of novel drug treatments for improved CDS management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Hui Ma
- Beijing Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100850, China
| | - Yafan Bai
- Department of Anesthesiology, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Xiaojuan Hou
- Hebei North University, Zhangjiakou, 075000, China
| | - Yixin Yang
- Beijing Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100850, China
| | - Guyan Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Yunfeng Li
- Beijing Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100850, China
- Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing Key Laboratory of Neuropsychopharmacology, Beijing, 100850, China
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2
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Ma L, Yue L, Liu S, Zhang Y, Zhang M, Cui S, Liu FY, Yi M, Wan Y. Dynamic Changes of the Infralimbic Cortex and Its Regulation of the Prelimbic Cortex in Rats with Chronic Inflammatory Pain. Neurosci Bull 2024; 40:872-886. [PMID: 38180711 DOI: 10.1007/s12264-023-01159-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024] Open
Abstract
The prelimbic cortex (PL) is actively engaged in pain modulation. The infralimbic cortex (IL) has been reported to regulate the PL. However, how this regulation affects pain remains unclear. In the present study, we recorded temporary hyper-activity of PL pyramidal neurons responding to nociceptive stimuli, but a temporary hypo-function of the IL by in vivo electrophysiological recording in rats with peripheral inflammation. Manipulation of the PL or IL had opposite effects on thermal hyperalgesia. Furthermore, the functional connectivity and chemogenetic regulation between the subregions indicated an inhibitory influence of the IL on the PL. Activation of the pathway from the IL to the PL alleviated thermal hyperalgesia, whereas its inhibition exacerbated chronic pain. Overall, our results suggest a new mechanism underlying the role of the medial prefrontal cortex in chronic pain: hypo-function of the IL leads to hyperactivity of the PL, which regulates thermal hyperalgesia, and thus contributes to the chronicity of pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Longyu Ma
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Neuroscience Research Institute, Peking University, Beijing, 100083, China
| | - Lupeng Yue
- CAS Key Laboratory of Mental Health, Institute of Psychology, Beijing, 100101, China
- Department of Psychology, University of Chinese Academy of Science, Beijing, 100101, China
| | - Shuting Liu
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Neuroscience Research Institute, Peking University, Beijing, 100083, China
| | - Yu Zhang
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Neuroscience Research Institute, Peking University, Beijing, 100083, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Human Disease Comparative Medicine, Institute of Laboratory Animal Sciences, CAMS & PUMC, Beijing, 100021, China
| | - Meng Zhang
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Neuroscience Research Institute, Peking University, Beijing, 100083, China
- Department of Pathology, Beijing Children's Hospital, Capital Medical University, National Center for Children's Health, Beijing, 100045, China
| | - Shuang Cui
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Neuroscience Research Institute, Peking University, Beijing, 100083, China
| | - Feng-Yu Liu
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Neuroscience Research Institute, Peking University, Beijing, 100083, China
| | - Ming Yi
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Neuroscience Research Institute, Peking University, Beijing, 100083, China.
- Key Laboratory for Neuroscience, Ministry of Education/National Health Commission, Peking University, Beijing, 100083, China.
| | - You Wan
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Neuroscience Research Institute, Peking University, Beijing, 100083, China.
- Key Laboratory for Neuroscience, Ministry of Education/National Health Commission, Peking University, Beijing, 100083, China.
- Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, 226001, China.
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3
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Han Y, Ai L, Song L, Zhou Y, Chen D, Sha S, Ji R, Li Q, Bu Q, Pan X, Zhai X, Cui M, Duan J, Yang J, Chaudhury D, Hu A, Liu H, Han MH, Cao JL, Zhang H. Midbrain glutamatergic circuit mechanism of resilience to socially transferred allodynia in male mice. Nat Commun 2024; 15:4947. [PMID: 38858350 PMCID: PMC11164890 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-49340-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/12/2024] Open
Abstract
The potential brain mechanism underlying resilience to socially transferred allodynia remains unknown. Here, we utilize a well-established socially transferred allodynia paradigm to segregate male mice into pain-susceptible and pain-resilient subgroups. Brain screening results show that ventral tegmental area glutamatergic neurons are selectively activated in pain-resilient mice as compared to control and pain-susceptible mice. Chemogenetic manipulations demonstrate that activation and inhibition of ventral tegmental area glutamatergic neurons bi-directionally regulate resilience to socially transferred allodynia. Moreover, ventral tegmental area glutamatergic neurons that project specifically to the nucleus accumbens shell and lateral habenula regulate the development and maintenance of the pain-resilient phenotype, respectively. Together, we establish an approach to explore individual variations in pain response and identify ventral tegmental area glutamatergic neurons and related downstream circuits as critical targets for resilience to socially transferred allodynia and the development of conceptually innovative analgesics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Han
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221004, PR China
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesia and Analgesia Application Technology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221004, PR China
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Narcotic and Psychotropic Drugs, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221004, PR China
| | - Lin Ai
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221004, PR China
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesia and Analgesia Application Technology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221004, PR China
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Narcotic and Psychotropic Drugs, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221004, PR China
| | - Lingzhen Song
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221004, PR China
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesia and Analgesia Application Technology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221004, PR China
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Narcotic and Psychotropic Drugs, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221004, PR China
| | - Yu Zhou
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221004, PR China
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesia and Analgesia Application Technology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221004, PR China
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Narcotic and Psychotropic Drugs, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221004, PR China
| | - Dandan Chen
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221004, PR China
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesia and Analgesia Application Technology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221004, PR China
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Narcotic and Psychotropic Drugs, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221004, PR China
| | - Sha Sha
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221004, PR China
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesia and Analgesia Application Technology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221004, PR China
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Narcotic and Psychotropic Drugs, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221004, PR China
| | - Ran Ji
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221004, PR China
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesia and Analgesia Application Technology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221004, PR China
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Narcotic and Psychotropic Drugs, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221004, PR China
| | - Qize Li
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221004, PR China
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesia and Analgesia Application Technology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221004, PR China
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Narcotic and Psychotropic Drugs, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221004, PR China
| | - Qingyang Bu
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221004, PR China
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesia and Analgesia Application Technology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221004, PR China
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Narcotic and Psychotropic Drugs, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221004, PR China
| | - Xiangyu Pan
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221004, PR China
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesia and Analgesia Application Technology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221004, PR China
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Narcotic and Psychotropic Drugs, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221004, PR China
| | - Xiaojing Zhai
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221004, PR China
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesia and Analgesia Application Technology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221004, PR China
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Narcotic and Psychotropic Drugs, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221004, PR China
| | - Mengqiao Cui
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221004, PR China
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesia and Analgesia Application Technology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221004, PR China
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Narcotic and Psychotropic Drugs, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221004, PR China
| | - Jiawen Duan
- Department of Mental Health and Public Health, Faculty of Life and Health Sciences, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518055, PR China
| | - Junxia Yang
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221004, PR China
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesia and Analgesia Application Technology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221004, PR China
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Narcotic and Psychotropic Drugs, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221004, PR China
| | - Dipesh Chaudhury
- Division of Science, New York University Abu Dhabi (NYUAD), Saadiyat Island, 129188, United Arab Emirates
| | - Ankang Hu
- The Animal Facility of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221004, PR China
| | - He Liu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Huzhou Central Hospital, Huzhou, Zhejiang, 313000, PR China
| | - Ming-Hu Han
- Department of Mental Health and Public Health, Faculty of Life and Health Sciences, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518055, PR China.
- Department of Pharmacological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA.
| | - Jun-Li Cao
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221004, PR China.
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesia and Analgesia Application Technology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221004, PR China.
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Narcotic and Psychotropic Drugs, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221004, PR China.
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221004, PR China.
| | - Hongxing Zhang
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221004, PR China.
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesia and Analgesia Application Technology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221004, PR China.
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Narcotic and Psychotropic Drugs, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, 221004, PR China.
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Han Y, Zhang JQ, Ji YW, Luan YW, Li SY, Geng HZ, Ji Y, Yin C, Liu S, Zhou CY, Xiao C. α4 nicotinic receptors on GABAergic neurons mediate a cholinergic analgesic circuit in the substantia nigra pars reticulata. Acta Pharmacol Sin 2024; 45:1160-1174. [PMID: 38438581 PMCID: PMC11130268 DOI: 10.1038/s41401-024-01234-7] [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: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) regulate pain pathways with various outcomes depending on receptor subtypes, neuron types, and locations. But it remains unknown whether α4β2 nAChRs abundantly expressed in the substantia nigra pars reticulata (SNr) have potential to mitigate hyperalgesia in pain states. We observed that injection of nAChR antagonists into the SNr reduced pain thresholds in naïve mice, whereas injection of nAChR agonists into the SNr relieved hyperalgesia in mice, subjected to capsaicin injection into the lower hind leg, spinal nerve injury, chronic constriction injury, or chronic nicotine exposure. The analgesic effects of nAChR agonists were mimicked by optogenetic stimulation of cholinergic inputs from the pedunculopontine nucleus (PPN) to the SNr, but attenuated upon downregulation of α4 nAChRs on SNr GABAergic neurons and injection of dihydro-β-erythroidine into the SNr. Chronic nicotine-induced hyperalgesia depended on α4 nAChRs in SNr GABAergic neurons and was associated with the reduction of ACh release in the SNr. Either activation of α4 nAChRs in the SNr or optogenetic stimulation of the PPN-SNr cholinergic projection mitigated chronic nicotine-induced hyperalgesia. Interestingly, mechanical stimulation-induced ACh release was significantly attenuated in mice subjected to either capsaicin injection into the lower hind leg or SNI. These results suggest that α4 nAChRs on GABAergic neurons mediate a cholinergic analgesic circuit in the SNr, and these receptors may be effective therapeutic targets to relieve hyperalgesia in acute and chronic pain, and chronic nicotine exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Han
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology, School of Anesthesiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, China
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesia and Analgesia Application Technology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, China
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Narcotic and Psychotropic Drugs, School of Anesthesiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, China
- Department of Anesthesiology, Yiwu Central Hospital, Yiwu, 322099, China
| | - Jia-Qi Zhang
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology, School of Anesthesiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, China
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesia and Analgesia Application Technology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, China
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Narcotic and Psychotropic Drugs, School of Anesthesiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, China
| | - Ya-Wei Ji
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology, School of Anesthesiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, China
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesia and Analgesia Application Technology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, China
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Narcotic and Psychotropic Drugs, School of Anesthesiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, China
| | - Yi-Wen Luan
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology, School of Anesthesiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, China
- Wuxi People's Hospital, Wuxi, 214023, China
| | - Shu-Yi Li
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology, School of Anesthesiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, China
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesia and Analgesia Application Technology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, China
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Narcotic and Psychotropic Drugs, School of Anesthesiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, China
| | - Hui-Zhen Geng
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology, School of Anesthesiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, China
| | - Ying Ji
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology, School of Anesthesiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, China
| | - Cui Yin
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology, School of Anesthesiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, China
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesia and Analgesia Application Technology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, China
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Narcotic and Psychotropic Drugs, School of Anesthesiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, China
| | - Su Liu
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology, School of Anesthesiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, China
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesia and Analgesia Application Technology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, China
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Narcotic and Psychotropic Drugs, School of Anesthesiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, China
- Department of Anesthesiology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221002, China
| | - Chun-Yi Zhou
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology, School of Anesthesiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, China.
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesia and Analgesia Application Technology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, China.
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Narcotic and Psychotropic Drugs, School of Anesthesiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, China.
| | - Cheng Xiao
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology, School of Anesthesiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, China.
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesia and Analgesia Application Technology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, China.
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Narcotic and Psychotropic Drugs, School of Anesthesiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, China.
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Hou G, Hao M, Duan J, Han MH. The Formation and Function of the VTA Dopamine System. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:3875. [PMID: 38612683 PMCID: PMC11011984 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25073875] [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: 10/20/2023] [Revised: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
The midbrain dopamine system is a sophisticated hub that integrates diverse inputs to control multiple physiological functions, including locomotion, motivation, cognition, reward, as well as maternal and reproductive behaviors. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that binds to G-protein-coupled receptors. Dopamine also works together with other neurotransmitters and various neuropeptides to maintain the balance of synaptic functions. The dysfunction of the dopamine system leads to several conditions, including Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, major depression, schizophrenia, and drug addiction. The ventral tegmental area (VTA) has been identified as an important relay nucleus that modulates homeostatic plasticity in the midbrain dopamine system. Due to the complexity of synaptic transmissions and input-output connections in the VTA, the structure and function of this crucial brain region are still not fully understood. In this review article, we mainly focus on the cell types, neurotransmitters, neuropeptides, ion channels, receptors, and neural circuits of the VTA dopamine system, with the hope of obtaining new insight into the formation and function of this vital brain region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guoqiang Hou
- Faculty of Life and Health Sciences, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518055, China (M.H.); (J.D.)
- Brain Cognition and Brain Disease Institute, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Mei Hao
- Faculty of Life and Health Sciences, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518055, China (M.H.); (J.D.)
- Brain Cognition and Brain Disease Institute, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Jiawen Duan
- Faculty of Life and Health Sciences, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518055, China (M.H.); (J.D.)
- Brain Cognition and Brain Disease Institute, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Ming-Hu Han
- Faculty of Life and Health Sciences, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518055, China (M.H.); (J.D.)
- Brain Cognition and Brain Disease Institute, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518055, China
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Liu W, Wang W, Wang Z, Xing Y. Ventral tegmental area dopaminergic circuits participates in stress-induced chronic postsurgical pain in male mice. BMC Neurosci 2024; 25:3. [PMID: 38195391 PMCID: PMC10775611 DOI: 10.1186/s12868-023-00842-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic postsurgical pain (CPP) markedly impairs patients' quality of life. Research has shown that chronic stress may extend incisional nociception in male mice. Dopaminergic (DAergic) neurons in the ventral tegmental area (VTA) are integral to stress-related mental disorders (including major depressive disorder, anxiety disorders, and PTSD) and pain. However, the impact of chronic social defeat stress (CSDS) on mesolimbic dopamine (DA) transmission in the development of CPP is yet to be established. It remains uncertain whether the dopamine signals in the rostral anterior cingulate cortex (rACC), which regulate pain, derive from the VTA. This study aims to explore the role of VTA-rACC dopaminergic circuits in a mouse model of CPP induced by CSDS. METHODS We conducted CSDS on C57BL/6 J wild-type male mice (n = 12-16 mice/group) and DAT-cre male mice (n = 10-12 mice/group). After 10 days of CSDS, a left posterior plantar incision was made to establish a mouse model of CPP. Paw withdrawal thresholds (PWTs) were evaluated using Von-Frey fibre stimulation. The open field test (OFT) and elevated plus maze test (EPM) were used to assess pain-related negative emotions. We used immunofluorescence staining and Western Blot to analyse D1, D2, c-Fos, and TH expression. DAergic fibre projections in the VTA-rACC neural pathway were traced using retrograde tracing and immunofluorescence staining. Optogenetics and Chemogenetics were employed to manipulate DAergic neurons in the VTA and their axons in the rACC. RESULTS The ipsilateral PWTs in male C57BL/6 J mice significantly decreased after surgery, returning to baseline after seven days. Conversely, in CSDS mice, ipsilateral PWTs remained reduced for at least 30 days post-incision. A significant reduction in TH-positive neurons expressing c-Fos in the VTA of CPP mice was observed 15 days post-incision. Activating DAergic neurons significantly improved ipsilateral PWTs and locomotor performance in the OFT and EPM in CPP mice post-incision. Additionally, D1 expression in the rACC was found to decrease in CPP mice, and this reduction counteracted the increase in PWTs caused by activating DAergic neuron axon terminals in the rACC. CONCLUSION CSDS results in chronicity of postsurgical nociception and anxiety-like negative emotions, with alterations in DA transmission playing a role in CPP. Specific activation of DAergic neurons mitigates nociceptive responses and anxiety-like bahaviors, possibly mediated by D1 receptors in the rACC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weizhen Liu
- Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, Henan, China
- The Academy of Medical Sciences of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, Henan, China
| | - Wang Wang
- Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, Henan, China
- The Academy of Medical Sciences of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, Henan, China
| | - Ziliang Wang
- Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, Henan, China
- The Academy of Medical Sciences of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, Henan, China
| | - Ying Xing
- Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, Henan, China.
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7
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Su N, Cai P, Dou Z, Yin X, Xu H, He J, Li Z, Li C. Brain nuclei and neural circuits in neuropathic pain and brain modulation mechanisms of acupuncture: a review on animal-based experimental research. Front Neurosci 2023; 17:1243231. [PMID: 37712096 PMCID: PMC10498311 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1243231] [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: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuropathic pain (NP) is known to be associated with abnormal changes in specific brain regions, but the complex neural network behind it is vast and complex and lacks a systematic summary. With the help of various animal models of NP, a literature search on NP brain regions and circuits revealed that the related brain nuclei included the periaqueductal gray (PAG), lateral habenula (LHb), medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC), and anterior cingulate cortex (ACC); the related brain circuits included the PAG-LHb and mPFC-ACC. Moreover, acupuncture and injurious information can affect different brain regions and influence brain functions via multiple aspects to play an analgesic role and improve synaptic plasticity by regulating the morphology and structure of brain synapses and the expression of synapse-related proteins; maintain the balance of excitatory and inhibitory neurons by regulating the secretion of glutamate, γ-aminobutyric acid, 5-hydroxytryptamine, and other neurotransmitters and receptors in the brain tissues; inhibit the overactivation of glial cells and reduce the release of pro-inflammatory mediators such as interleukins to reduce neuroinflammation in brain regions; maintain homeostasis of glucose metabolism and regulate the metabolic connections in the brain; and play a role in analgesia through the mediation of signaling pathways and signal transduction molecules. These factors help to deepen the understanding of NP brain circuits and the brain mechanisms of acupuncture analgesia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na Su
- First Clinical Medicine College, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Pingping Cai
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Jinan, China
| | - Zhiqiang Dou
- College of Acupuncture and Moxibustion and Tuina, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Xiaoxue Yin
- Department of Science and Education, Shandong Academy of Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Hongmin Xu
- Department of Gynecology, Laiwu Hospital of Traditional Chinese, Jinan, China
| | - Jing He
- First Clinical Medicine College, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Zhaofeng Li
- College of Acupuncture and Moxibustion and Tuina, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
- International Office, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Changzhong Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shenzhen Hospital, Peking University, Shenzhen, China
- Department of Gynecology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Jinan, China
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8
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Sun H, Li Z, Qiu Z, Shen Y, Guo Q, Hu SW, Ding HL, An S, Cao JL. A common neuronal ensemble in nucleus accumbens regulates pain-like behaviour and sleep. Nat Commun 2023; 14:4700. [PMID: 37543693 PMCID: PMC10404280 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-40450-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/07/2023] Open
Abstract
A comorbidity of chronic pain is sleep disturbance. Here, we identify a dual-functional ensemble that regulates both pain-like behaviour induced by chronic constrictive injury or complete Freund's adjuvant, and sleep wakefulness, in the nucleus accumbens (NAc) in mice. Specifically, a select population of NAc neurons exhibits increased activity either upon nociceptive stimulation or during wakefulness. Experimental activation of the ensemble neurons exacerbates pain-like (nociceptive) responses and reduces NREM sleep, while inactivation of these neurons produces the opposite effects. Furthermore, NAc ensemble primarily consists of D1 neurons and projects divergently to the ventral tegmental area (VTA) and preoptic area (POA). Silencing an ensemble innervating VTA neurons selectively increases nociceptive responses without affecting sleep, whereas inhibiting ensemble-innervating POA neurons decreases NREM sleep without affecting nociception. These results suggest a common NAc ensemble that encodes chronic pain and controls sleep, and achieves the modality specificity through its divergent downstream circuit targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haiyan Sun
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology & Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesia and Analgesia Application Technology, NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Narcotic and Psychotropic Drugs, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, China
- Department of Pediatrics, The Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221006, Jiangsu, China
| | - Zhilin Li
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology & Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesia and Analgesia Application Technology, NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Narcotic and Psychotropic Drugs, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, China
| | - Zhentong Qiu
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology & Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesia and Analgesia Application Technology, NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Narcotic and Psychotropic Drugs, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, China
| | - Yu Shen
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology & Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesia and Analgesia Application Technology, NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Narcotic and Psychotropic Drugs, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, China
| | - Qingchen Guo
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology & Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesia and Analgesia Application Technology, NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Narcotic and Psychotropic Drugs, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, China
| | - Su-Wan Hu
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology & Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesia and Analgesia Application Technology, NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Narcotic and Psychotropic Drugs, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, China
| | - Hai-Lei Ding
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology & Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesia and Analgesia Application Technology, NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Narcotic and Psychotropic Drugs, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, China
| | - Shuming An
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology & Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesia and Analgesia Application Technology, NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Narcotic and Psychotropic Drugs, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, China.
| | - Jun-Li Cao
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology & Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesia and Analgesia Application Technology, NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Narcotic and Psychotropic Drugs, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, China.
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221006, China.
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9
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Feng B, Harms J, Chen E, Gao P, Xu P, He Y. Current Discoveries and Future Implications of Eating Disorders. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:6325. [PMID: 37510558 PMCID: PMC10379623 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20146325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 03/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023]
Abstract
Eating disorders (EDs) are characterized by severe disturbances in eating behaviors and can sometimes be fatal. Eating disorders are also associated with distressing thoughts and emotions. They can be severe conditions affecting physical, psychological, and social functions. Preoccupation with food, body weight, and shape may also play an important role in the regulation of eating disorders. Common eating disorders have three major types: anorexia nervosa (AN), bulimia nervosa (BN), and binge eating disorder (BED). In some cases, EDs can have serious consequences for an individual's physical and mental health. These disorders often develop during adolescence or early adulthood and affect both males and females, although they are more commonly diagnosed in young adult females. Treatment for EDs typically involves a combination of therapy, nutrition counseling, and medical care. In this narrative review, the authors summarized what is known of EDs and discussed the future directions that may be worth exploring in this emerging area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bing Feng
- Pennington Biomedical Research Center, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70808, USA
| | - Jerney Harms
- Pennington Biomedical Research Center, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70808, USA
- Biology Department, Centenary College of Louisiana, Shreveport, LA 71104, USA
| | - Emily Chen
- Pennington Biomedical Research Center, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70808, USA
| | - Peiyu Gao
- Pennington Biomedical Research Center, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70808, USA
| | - Pingwen Xu
- The Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, The University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
| | - Yanlin He
- Pennington Biomedical Research Center, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70808, USA
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10
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Zhuravlev M, Novikov M, Parsamyan R, Selskii A, Runnova A. The Objective Assessment of Event-Related Potentials: An Influence of Chronic Pain on ERP Parameters. Neurosci Bull 2023; 39:1105-1116. [PMID: 36813952 PMCID: PMC10313590 DOI: 10.1007/s12264-023-01035-8] [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: 04/06/2022] [Accepted: 10/07/2022] [Indexed: 02/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The article presents an original method for the automatic assessment of the quality of event-related potentials (ERPs), based on the calculation of the coefficient ε, which describes the compliance of recorded ERPs with some statistically significant parameters. This method was used to analyze the neuropsychological EEG monitoring of patients suffering from migraines. The frequency of migraine attacks was correlated with the spatial distribution of the coefficients ε, calculated for EEG channels. More than 15 migraine attacks per month was accompanied by an increase in calculated values in the occipital region. Patients with infrequent migraines exhibited maximum quality in the frontal areas. The automatic analysis of spatial maps of the coefficient ε demonstrated a statistically significant difference between the two analyzed groups with different means of migraine attack numbers per month.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maksim Zhuravlev
- Coordinating Center for Fundamental Research, National Medical Research Center for Therapy and Preventive Medicine, Moscow, 101000, Russia.
- Institute of Physics, Saratov State University, Saratov, 410012, Russia.
| | - Mikhail Novikov
- Department of Fundamental Research in Neurocardiology, Institute of Cardiological Research, Saratov State Medical University, Saratov, 410012, Russia
| | - Ruzanna Parsamyan
- Department of Fundamental Research in Neurocardiology, Institute of Cardiological Research, Saratov State Medical University, Saratov, 410012, Russia
| | - Anton Selskii
- Institute of Physics, Saratov State University, Saratov, 410012, Russia
- Department of Fundamental Research in Neurocardiology, Institute of Cardiological Research, Saratov State Medical University, Saratov, 410012, Russia
| | - Anastasiya Runnova
- Coordinating Center for Fundamental Research, National Medical Research Center for Therapy and Preventive Medicine, Moscow, 101000, Russia
- Department of Fundamental Research in Neurocardiology, Institute of Cardiological Research, Saratov State Medical University, Saratov, 410012, Russia
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11
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Shen Y, Luo Y, Liao P, Zuo Y, Jiang R. Role of the Voltage-Gated Proton Channel Hv1 in Nervous Systems. Neurosci Bull 2023; 39:1157-1172. [PMID: 37029856 PMCID: PMC10313628 DOI: 10.1007/s12264-023-01053-6] [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: 10/12/2022] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 04/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Hv1 is the only voltage-gated proton-selective channel in mammalian cells. It contains a conserved voltage-sensor domain, shared by a large class of voltage-gated ion channels, but lacks a pore domain. Its primary role is to extrude protons from the cytoplasm upon pH reduction and membrane depolarization. The best-known function of Hv1 is the regulation of cytosolic pH and the nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase-dependent production of reactive oxygen species. Accumulating evidence indicates that Hv1 is expressed in nervous systems, in addition to immune cells and others. Here, we summarize the molecular properties, distribution, and physiological functions of Hv1 in the peripheral and central nervous systems. We describe the recently discovered functions of Hv1 in various neurological diseases, including brain or spinal cord injury, ischemic stroke, demyelinating diseases, and pain. We also summarize the current advances in the discovery and application of Hv1-targeted small molecules in neurological diseases. Finally, we discuss the current limitations of our understanding of Hv1 and suggest future research directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Shen
- Department of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610000, China
- Laboratory of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, National-Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Translational Medicine of Anesthesiology, Department of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610000, China
| | - Yuncheng Luo
- Department of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610000, China
- Laboratory of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, National-Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Translational Medicine of Anesthesiology, Department of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610000, China
| | - Ping Liao
- Laboratory of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, National-Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Translational Medicine of Anesthesiology, Department of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610000, China
| | - Yunxia Zuo
- Department of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610000, China
- Laboratory of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, National-Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Translational Medicine of Anesthesiology, Department of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610000, China
| | - Ruotian Jiang
- Department of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610000, China.
- Laboratory of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, National-Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Translational Medicine of Anesthesiology, Department of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610000, China.
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12
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Fan BQ, Xia JM, Chen DD, Feng LL, Ding JH, Li SS, Li WX, Han Y. Medial septum glutamatergic neurons modulate nociception in chronic neuropathic pain via projections to lateral hypothalamus. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1171665. [PMID: 37266154 PMCID: PMC10229799 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1171665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The medial septum (MS) contributes in pain processing and regulation, especially concerning persistent nociception. However, the role of MS glutamatergic neurons in pain and the underlying neural circuit mechanisms in pain remain poorly understood. In this study, chronic constrictive injury of the sciatic nerve (CCI) surgery was performed to induce thermal and mechanical hyperalgesia in mice. The chemogenetic activation of MS glutamatergic neurons decreased pain thresholds in naïve mice. In contrast, inhibition or ablation of these neurons has improved nociception thresholds in naïve mice and relieved thermal and mechanical hyperalgesia in CCI mice. Anterograde viral tracing revealed that MS glutamatergic neurons had projections to the lateral hypothalamus (LH) and supramammillary nucleus (SuM). We further demonstrated that MS glutamatergic neurons regulate pain thresholds by projecting to LH but not SuM, because the inhibition of MS-LH glutamatergic projections suppressed pain thresholds in CCI and naïve mice, yet, optogenetic activation or inhibition of MS-SuM glutamatergic projections had no effect on pain thresholds in naïve mice. In conclusion, our results reveal that MS glutamatergic neurons play a significant role in regulating pain perception and decipher that MS glutamatergic neurons modulate nociception via projections to LH.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Yuan Han
- *Correspondence: Yuan Han, ; Wen-Xian Li,
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13
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Li D, Yuan C, Zhao B, Cai G, Xu Y. LncRNA Kcnq1ot1relieves neuropathic pain through downregulation of Myd88. Int Immunopharmacol 2023; 119:110218. [PMID: 37104915 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2023.110218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2022] [Revised: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have already been documented to become the therapeutic targets for neuropathic pain. Here, this work focused on exploring the specific mechanism underlying Kcnq1 overlapping transcript 1 (kcnq1ot1) in neuropathic pain. METHODS Sciatic nerve chronic constriction injury (CCI) in vivo and LPS-stimulated microglia BV2 cell injury in vitro were adopted to construct neuropathic pain models. Expressions of kcnq1ot1, MyD88, and microglia activation marker Iba-1 were measured. In this study, we carried out fluorescence in-situ Hybridization (FISH) and immunofluorescence for examining Kcnq1ot1 localization within microglial cells in mouse spinal dorsal horn. Subsequently, we evaluated binding between Kcnq1ot1 and Myd88, together with the expressions of IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, and Myd88 ubiquitination. RESULTS Kcnq1ot1 levels decreased within CCI mice and LPS-induced BV2 cells. According to the results of FISH and immunofluorescence, Kcnq1ot1 is located in microglia. Overexpression of Kcnq1ot1 suppressed Iba-1, IL-1β, IL-6 together with TNF-α expression. RNA pull-down and RIP assay confirmed that Kcnq1ot1 bound to Myd88. In addition, Kcnq1ot1 overexpression promoted the degradation, enhanced the ubiquitination, and reduced protein level of Myd88. Overexpression of Myd88 eliminated the effects of Kcnq1ot1 overexpression on Iba-1level and production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Further in vivo results revealed that increased Kcnq1ot1 level alleviated neuropathic pain and myelinated nerve fiber injury of CCI mice. CONCLUSION Kcnq1ot1 downregulated Myd88 protein expression by binding to Myd88 and promoting its ubiquitination, which in turn suppressed microglia activation, pro-inflammatory cytokine production, and relieved neuropathic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Da Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, Pain and Perioperative Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, China.
| | - Chang Yuan
- Department of Anesthesiology, Pain and Perioperative Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, China
| | - Bingxiao Zhao
- Department of Anesthesiology, Pain and Perioperative Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, China
| | - Gaige Cai
- Department of Anesthesiology, Pain and Perioperative Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, China
| | - Ying Xu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Pain and Perioperative Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, China
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14
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Li T, Gao Y, He M, Gui Z, Zhao B, Cao Y, Chen T, Zhu J, Wang J, Zhong Q, Zhang Z. P2X7 receptor-activated microglia in cortex is critical for sleep disorder under neuropathic pain. Front Neurosci 2023; 17:1095718. [PMID: 36816134 PMCID: PMC9936193 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1095718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuropathic pain (NP) is associated with sleep disturbances, which may substantially influence the quality of life. Clinical and animal studies demonstrated that neurotransmitter is one of the main contributors to cause sleep disturbances induced by NP. Recently, it was reported that P2X7 receptors (P2X7R) are widely expressed in microglia, which serves crucial role in neuronal activity in the pain and sleep-awake cycle. In this study, we adopted the chronic constriction injury (CCI) model to establish the progress of chronic pain and investigated whether P2X7R of microglia in cortex played a critical role in sleep disturbance induced by NP. At electroencephalogram (EEG) level, sleep disturbance was observed in mice treated with CCI as they exhibited mechanical and thermal hypersensitivity, and inhibition of P2X7R ameliorated these changes. We showed a dramatic high level of P2X7R and Iba-1 co-expression in the cortical region, and the inhibition of P2X7R also adversely affected it. Furthermore, the power of LFPs in ventral posterior nucleus (VP) and primary somatosensory cortex (S1) which changed in the CCI group was adverse after the inhibition of P2X7R. Furthermore, inhibition of P2X7R also decreased the VP-S1 coherence which increased in CCI group. Nuclear magnetic resonance demonstrated inhibition of P2X7R decreased glutamate (Glu) levels in thalamic and cortical regions which were significantly increased in the CCI mice. Our findings provide evidence that NP has a critical effect on neuronal activity linked to sleep and may built up a new target for the development of sleep disturbances under chronic pain conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tingting Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, Zhongnan Hospital, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Yunling Gao
- Xiangyang Central Hospital, Institute of Neuroscience and Brain Diseases, Affiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Arts and Science, Xiangyang, Hubei, China
| | - Mengying He
- Department of Anesthesiology, Zhongnan Hospital, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, China,Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance in Biological Systems, State Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance and Atomic and Molecular Physics, National Center for Magnetic Resonance in Wuhan, Wuhan Institute of Physics and Mathematics, Innovation Academy for Precision Measurement Science and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhu Gui
- Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance in Biological Systems, State Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance and Atomic and Molecular Physics, National Center for Magnetic Resonance in Wuhan, Wuhan Institute of Physics and Mathematics, Innovation Academy for Precision Measurement Science and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics, Wuhan, China,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Bingchu Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance in Biological Systems, State Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance and Atomic and Molecular Physics, National Center for Magnetic Resonance in Wuhan, Wuhan Institute of Physics and Mathematics, Innovation Academy for Precision Measurement Science and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics, Wuhan, China,School of Computer Science, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Yue Cao
- Department of Anesthesiology, Zhongnan Hospital, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Ting Chen
- Department of Anesthesiology, Zhongnan Hospital, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Jinpiao Zhu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Zhongnan Hospital, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, China,Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance in Biological Systems, State Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance and Atomic and Molecular Physics, National Center for Magnetic Resonance in Wuhan, Wuhan Institute of Physics and Mathematics, Innovation Academy for Precision Measurement Science and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics, Wuhan, China
| | - Jie Wang
- Xiangyang Central Hospital, Institute of Neuroscience and Brain Diseases, Affiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Arts and Science, Xiangyang, Hubei, China,Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance in Biological Systems, State Key Laboratory of Magnetic Resonance and Atomic and Molecular Physics, National Center for Magnetic Resonance in Wuhan, Wuhan Institute of Physics and Mathematics, Innovation Academy for Precision Measurement Science and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics, Wuhan, China,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Qi Zhong
- Department of Anesthesiology, Zhongnan Hospital, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, China,*Correspondence: Qi Zhong,
| | - Zongze Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Zhongnan Hospital, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, China,Zongze Zhang,
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15
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Zhai X, Zhou D, Han Y, Han MH, Zhang H. Noradrenergic modulation of stress resilience. Pharmacol Res 2023; 187:106598. [PMID: 36481260 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2022.106598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Revised: 11/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Resilience represents an active adaption process in the face of adversity, trauma, tragedy, threats, or significant sources of stress. Investigations of neurobiological mechanisms of resilience opens an innovative direction for preclinical research and drug development for various stress-related disorders. The locus coeruleus norepinephrine system has been implicated in mediating stress susceptibility versus resilience. It has attracted increasing attention over the past decades with the revolution of modern neuroscience technologies. In this review article, we first briefly go over resilience-related concepts and introduce rodent paradigms for segregation of susceptibility and resilience, then highlight recent literature that identifies the neuronal and molecular substrates of active resilience in the locus coeruleus, and discuss possible future directions for resilience investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaojing Zhai
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221004, China; Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesia and Analgesia Application Technology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221004, China; NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Narcotic and Psychotropic Drugs, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221004, China
| | - Dongyu Zhou
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221004, China; Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesia and Analgesia Application Technology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221004, China; NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Narcotic and Psychotropic Drugs, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221004, China
| | - Yi Han
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221004, China; Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesia and Analgesia Application Technology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221004, China; NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Narcotic and Psychotropic Drugs, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221004, China
| | - Ming-Hu Han
- Department of Mental Health and Public Health, Faculty of Life and Health Sciences, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangdong 518055, China; Department of Pharmacological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA.
| | - Hongxing Zhang
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221004, China; Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Anesthesia and Analgesia Application Technology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221004, China; NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Narcotic and Psychotropic Drugs, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu 221004, China.
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16
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WEI XL, TIAN J, JIA SH, SHU Q. Acupuncture for the relief of chronic pain: regulating negative emotions and reward/motivation circuits based on the theory of “spirit-regulation with acupuncture" 针灸改善慢性疼痛的新视角:“针灸治神”调控负性情绪及奖赏/动机环路. WORLD JOURNAL OF ACUPUNCTURE-MOXIBUSTION 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.wjam.2022.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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17
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Gao SH, Tao Y, Zhu Y, Huang H, Shen LL, Gao CY. Activation of Dopamine D2 Receptors Alleviates Neuronal Hyperexcitability in the Lateral Entorhinal Cortex via Inhibition of HCN Current in a Rat Model of Chronic Inflammatory Pain. Neurosci Bull 2022; 38:1041-1056. [PMID: 35705785 PMCID: PMC9468209 DOI: 10.1007/s12264-022-00892-z] [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: 10/31/2021] [Accepted: 04/10/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Functional changes in synaptic transmission from the lateral entorhinal cortex to the dentate gyrus (LEC-DG) are considered responsible for the chronification of pain. However, the underlying alterations in fan cells, which are the predominant neurons in the LEC that project to the DG, remain elusive. Here, we investigated possible mechanisms using a rat model of complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA)-induced inflammatory pain. We found a substantial increase in hyperpolarization-activated/cyclic nucleotide-gated currents (Ih), which led to the hyperexcitability of LEC fan cells of CFA slices. This phenomenon was attenuated in CFA slices by activating dopamine D2, but not D1, receptors. Chemogenetic activation of the ventral tegmental area -LEC projection had a D2 receptor-dependent analgesic effect. Intra-LEC microinjection of a D2 receptor agonist also suppressed CFA-induced behavioral hypersensitivity, and this effect was attenuated by pre-activation of the Ih. Our findings suggest that down-regulating the excitability of LEC fan cells through activation of the dopamine D2 receptor may be a strategy for treating chronic inflammatory pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shi-Hao Gao
- Department of Rehabilitation, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 400042, China
- Army 953 Hospital, Army Medical University, Shigatse, 857000, China
| | - Yong Tao
- Department of Rehabilitation, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 400042, China
| | - Yang Zhu
- Department of Rehabilitation, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 400042, China
| | - Hao Huang
- Department of Rehabilitation, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 400042, China
| | - Lin-Lin Shen
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Xinqiao Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 400037, China.
| | - Chang-Yue Gao
- Department of Rehabilitation, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 400042, China.
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Singh SP, William M, Malavia M, Chu XP. Behavior of KCNQ Channels in Neural Plasticity and Motor Disorders. MEMBRANES 2022; 12:membranes12050499. [PMID: 35629827 PMCID: PMC9143857 DOI: 10.3390/membranes12050499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2022] [Revised: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 05/03/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
The broad distribution of voltage-gated potassium channels (VGKCs) in the human body makes them a critical component for the study of physiological and pathological function. Within the KCNQ family of VGKCs, these aqueous conduits serve an array of critical roles in homeostasis, especially in neural tissue. Moreover, the greater emphasis on genomic identification in the past century has led to a growth in literature on the role of the ion channels in pathological disease as well. Despite this, there is a need to consolidate the updated findings regarding both the pharmacotherapeutic and pathological roles of KCNQ channels, especially regarding neural plasticity and motor disorders which have the largest body of literature on this channel. Specifically, KCNQ channels serve a remarkable role in modulating the synaptic efficiency required to create appropriate plasticity in the brain. This role can serve as a foundation for clinical approaches to chronic pain. Additionally, KCNQ channels in motor disorders have been utilized as a direction for contemporary pharmacotherapeutic developments due to the muscarinic properties of this channel. The aim of this study is to provide a contemporary review of the behavior of these channels in neural plasticity and motor disorders. Upon review, the behavior of these channels is largely dependent on the physiological role that KCNQ modulatory factors (i.e., pharmacotherapeutic options) serve in pathological diseases.
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Guo F, Du Y, Qu FH, Lin SD, Chen Z, Zhang SH. Dissecting the Neural Circuitry for Pain Modulation and Chronic Pain: Insights from Optogenetics. Neurosci Bull 2022; 38:440-452. [PMID: 35249185 PMCID: PMC9068856 DOI: 10.1007/s12264-022-00835-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2021] [Accepted: 11/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Pain is an unpleasant sensory and emotional experience associated with, or resembling that associated with, actual or potential tissue damage. The processing of pain involves complicated modulation at the levels of the periphery, spinal cord, and brain. The pathogenesis of chronic pain is still not fully understood, which makes the clinical treatment challenging. Optogenetics, which combines optical and genetic technologies, can precisely intervene in the activity of specific groups of neurons and elements of the related circuits. Taking advantage of optogenetics, researchers have achieved a body of new findings that shed light on the cellular and circuit mechanisms of pain transmission, pain modulation, and chronic pain both in the periphery and the central nervous system. In this review, we summarize recent findings in pain research using optogenetic approaches and discuss their significance in understanding the pathogenesis of chronic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fang Guo
- Department of Pharmacology and Department of Anesthesiology of the Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Yu Du
- Department of Pharmacology and Department of Anesthesiology of the Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Feng-Hui Qu
- Department of Pharmacology and Department of Anesthesiology of the Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Shi-Da Lin
- Department of Pharmacology and Department of Anesthesiology of the Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Zhong Chen
- Key Laboratory of Neuropharmacology and Translational Medicine of Zhejiang Province, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, China.
| | - Shi-Hong Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology and Department of Anesthesiology of the Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058, China.
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Autism-associated mutations in K V7 channels induce gating pore current. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2021; 118:2112666118. [PMID: 34728568 PMCID: PMC8609342 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2112666118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) adversely impacts >1% of children in the United States, causing social interaction deficits, repetitive behaviors, and communication disorders. Genetic analysis of ASD has advanced dramatically through genome sequencing, which has identified >500 genes with mutations in ASD. Mutations that alter arginine gating charges in the voltage sensor of the voltage-gated potassium (KV) channel KV7 (KCNQ) are among those frequently associated with ASD. We hypothesized that these gating charge mutations would induce gating pore current (also termed ω-current) by causing an ionic leak through the mutant voltage sensor. Unexpectedly, we found that wild-type KV7 conducts outward gating pore current through its native voltage sensor at positive membrane potentials, owing to a glutamine in the third gating charge position. In bacterial and human KV7 channels, gating charge mutations at the R1 and R2 positions cause inward gating pore current through the resting voltage sensor at negative membrane potentials, whereas mutation at R4 causes outward gating pore current through the activated voltage sensor at positive potentials. Remarkably, expression of the KV7.3/R2C ASD-associated mutation in vivo in midbrain dopamine neurons of mice disrupts action potential generation and repetitive firing. Overall, our results reveal native and mutant gating pore current in KV7 channels and implicate altered control of action potential generation by gating pore current through mutant KV7 channels as a potential pathogenic mechanism in autism.
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