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Joyce MKP, Uchendu S, Arnsten AFT. Stress and Inflammation Target Dorsolateral Prefrontal Cortex Function: Neural Mechanisms Underlying Weakened Cognitive Control. Biol Psychiatry 2024:S0006-3223(24)01420-3. [PMID: 38944141 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2024.06.016] [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: 02/05/2024] [Revised: 06/15/2024] [Accepted: 06/22/2024] [Indexed: 07/01/2024]
Abstract
Most mental disorders involve dysfunction of the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (dlPFC), a recently evolved brain region that subserves working memory, abstraction, and the thoughtful regulation of attention, action, and emotion. For example, schizophrenia, depression, long COVID, and Alzheimer's disease are all associated with dlPFC dysfunction, with neuropathology often being focused in layer III. The dlPFC has extensive top-down projections, e.g., to the posterior association cortices to regulate attention and to the subgenual cingulate cortex via the rostral and medial PFC to regulate emotional responses. However, the dlPFC is particularly dependent on arousal state and is very vulnerable to stress and inflammation, which are etiological and/or exacerbating factors for most mental disorders. The cellular mechanisms by which stress and inflammation impact the dlPFC are a topic of current research and are summarized in this review. For example, the layer III dlPFC circuits that generate working memory-related neuronal firing have unusual neurotransmission, depending on NMDA receptor and nicotinic α7 receptor actions that are blocked under inflammatory conditions by kynurenic acid. These circuits also have unusual neuromodulation, with the molecular machinery to magnify calcium signaling in spines needed to support persistent firing, which must be tightly regulated to prevent toxic calcium actions. Stress rapidly weakens layer III connectivity by driving feedforward calcium-cAMP (cyclic adenosine monophosphate) opening of potassium channels on spines. This is regulated by postsynaptic noradrenergic α2A adrenergic receptor and mGluR3 (metabotropic glutamate receptor 3) signaling but dysregulated by inflammation and/or chronic stress exposure, which contribute to spine loss. Treatments that strengthen the dlPFC via pharmacological (the α2A adrenergic receptor agonist, guanfacine) or repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation manipulation provide a rational basis for therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary Kate P Joyce
- Department of Neuroscience, Yale Medical School, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Stacy Uchendu
- Department of Neuroscience, Yale Medical School, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Amy F T Arnsten
- Department of Neuroscience, Yale Medical School, New Haven, Connecticut.
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Horie I, Muroi Y, Ishii T. Noradrenergic Regulation of the Medial Prefrontal Cortex Mediates Stress Coping in Postpartum Female Mice. Mol Neurobiol 2024:10.1007/s12035-024-04240-2. [PMID: 38829510 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-024-04240-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024]
Abstract
The prevalence of depression in women increases during the postpartum period. We previously reported that subchronic exposure to social stress decreased passive coping in postpartum female mice. This study aimed to investigate whether noradrenaline regulation might regulate coping styles in mice. We first determined whether a different type of stress, subchronic physical stress, decreases passive coping in postpartum females. Postpartum female, virgin female, and male mice were exposed to subchronic restraint stress (restraint stress for 4 h for 5 consecutive days). Subchronic restraint stress decreased passive coping in postpartum females but not in virgin females and males in the forced swim and tail suspension tests. We next examined the neuronal mechanism by which subchronic stress decreases passive coping in postpartum female mice. Neuronal activity and expression of noradrenergic receptors in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) were analyzed using immunohistochemistry and reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction, respectively. The mPFC was manipulated using chemogenetics, knockdown, or an α2A adrenergic receptor (AR) antagonist. Immunohistochemistry revealed that subchronic restraint stress increased glutamatergic neuron activation in the mPFC via forced swim stress and decreased α2A AR expression in postpartum females. Chemogenetic activation of glutamatergic neurons in the mPFC, knockdown of α2AAR in the mPFC, and the α2A AR receptor antagonist atipamezole treatment decreased passive coping in postpartum females. Subchronic restraint stress decreased passive coping in postpartum females by increasing glutamatergic neuron activity in the mPFC through α2A AR attenuation. The noradrenergic regulation of the mPFC may be a new target for treating postpartum depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ikuko Horie
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, National University Cooperation Hokkaido Higher Education and Research, Hokkaido, 080-8555, Japan
| | - Yoshikage Muroi
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, National University Cooperation Hokkaido Higher Education and Research, Hokkaido, 080-8555, Japan.
| | - Toshiaki Ishii
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, National University Cooperation Hokkaido Higher Education and Research, Hokkaido, 080-8555, Japan
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Abe K, Kambe Y, Majima K, Hu Z, Ohtake M, Momennezhad A, Izumi H, Tanaka T, Matunis A, Stacy E, Itokazu T, Sato TR, Sato T. Functional diversity of dopamine axons in prefrontal cortex during classical conditioning. eLife 2024; 12:RP91136. [PMID: 38747563 PMCID: PMC11095940 DOI: 10.7554/elife.91136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Midbrain dopamine neurons impact neural processing in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) through mesocortical projections. However, the signals conveyed by dopamine projections to the PFC remain unclear, particularly at the single-axon level. Here, we investigated dopaminergic axonal activity in the medial PFC (mPFC) during reward and aversive processing. By optimizing microprism-mediated two-photon calcium imaging of dopamine axon terminals, we found diverse activity in dopamine axons responsive to both reward and aversive stimuli. Some axons exhibited a preference for reward, while others favored aversive stimuli, and there was a strong bias for the latter at the population level. Long-term longitudinal imaging revealed that the preference was maintained in reward- and aversive-preferring axons throughout classical conditioning in which rewarding and aversive stimuli were paired with preceding auditory cues. However, as mice learned to discriminate reward or aversive cues, a cue activity preference gradually developed only in aversive-preferring axons. We inferred the trial-by-trial cue discrimination based on machine learning using anticipatory licking or facial expressions, and found that successful discrimination was accompanied by sharper selectivity for the aversive cue in aversive-preferring axons. Our findings indicate that a group of mesocortical dopamine axons encodes aversive-related signals, which are modulated by both classical conditioning across days and trial-by-trial discrimination within a day.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenta Abe
- Department of Neuroscience, Medical University of South CarolinaCharlestonUnited States
| | - Yuki Kambe
- Department of Pharmacology, Kagoshima UniversityKagoshimaJapan
| | - Kei Majima
- Institute for Quantum Life Science, National Institutes for Quantum Science and TechnologyChibaJapan
- Japan Science and Technology PRESTOSaitamaJapan
| | - Zijing Hu
- Department of Physiology, Monash UniversityClaytonAustralia
- Neuroscience Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash UniversityClaytonAustralia
| | - Makoto Ohtake
- Department of Neuroscience, Medical University of South CarolinaCharlestonUnited States
| | - Ali Momennezhad
- Department of Pharmacology, Kagoshima UniversityKagoshimaJapan
| | - Hideki Izumi
- Faculty of Data Science, Shiga UniversityShigaJapan
| | | | - Ashley Matunis
- Department of Neuroscience, Medical University of South CarolinaCharlestonUnited States
- Department of Biology, College of CharlestonCharlestonUnited States
- Department of Neuro-Medical Science, Osaka UniversityOsakaJapan
| | - Emma Stacy
- Department of Neuroscience, Medical University of South CarolinaCharlestonUnited States
- Department of Biology, College of CharlestonCharlestonUnited States
| | | | - Takashi R Sato
- Department of Neuroscience, Medical University of South CarolinaCharlestonUnited States
| | - Tatsuo Sato
- Department of Pharmacology, Kagoshima UniversityKagoshimaJapan
- Japan Science and Technology PRESTOSaitamaJapan
- Department of Physiology, Monash UniversityClaytonAustralia
- Neuroscience Program, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash UniversityClaytonAustralia
- Japan Science and Technology FORESTSaitamaJapan
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Abe K, Kambe Y, Majima K, Hu Z, Ohtake M, Momennezhad A, Izumi H, Tanaka T, Matunis A, Stacy E, Itokazu T, Sato TR, Sato TK. Functional Diversity of Dopamine Axons in Prefrontal Cortex During Classical Conditioning. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2023.08.23.554475. [PMID: 37662305 PMCID: PMC10473671 DOI: 10.1101/2023.08.23.554475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/05/2023]
Abstract
Midbrain dopamine neurons impact neural processing in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) through mesocortical projections. However, the signals conveyed by dopamine projections to the PFC remain unclear, particularly at the single-axon level. Here, we investigated dopaminergic axonal activity in the medial PFC (mPFC) during reward and aversive processing. By optimizing microprism-mediated two-photon calcium imaging of dopamine axon terminals, we found diverse activity in dopamine axons responsive to both reward and aversive stimuli. Some axons exhibited a preference for reward, while others favored aversive stimuli, and there was a strong bias for the latter at the population level. Long-term longitudinal imaging revealed that the preference was maintained in reward- and aversive-preferring axons throughout classical conditioning in which rewarding and aversive stimuli were paired with preceding auditory cues. However, as mice learned to discriminate reward or aversive cues, a cue activity preference gradually developed only in aversive-preferring axons. We inferred the trial-by-trial cue discrimination based on machine learning using anticipatory licking or facial expressions, and found that successful discrimination was accompanied by sharper selectivity for the aversive cue in aversive-preferring axons. Our findings indicate that a group of mesocortical dopamine axons encodes aversive-related signals, which are modulated by both classical conditioning across days and trial-by-trial discrimination within a day.
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Claußen L, Heidelbach T. Resistance exercising on unstable surface leads to Pupil Dilation. BMC Sports Sci Med Rehabil 2024; 16:62. [PMID: 38439063 PMCID: PMC10913668 DOI: 10.1186/s13102-024-00858-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic resistance training and acute resistance exercises improve physical performance and can enhance cognitive performance. However, there is still uncertainty about the mechanism(s) responsible for cognitive improvement following resistance training and exercise. Recent findings suggest that resistance exercise has metabolic as well as cognitive demands, which potentially activate similar neural circuitry associated with higher-order cognitive function tasks. Exercising on unstable devices increases the coordinative and metabolic demands and thus may further increase cognitive activation during resistance exercise. The measurement of pupil diameter could provide indications of cognitive activation and arousal during resistance exercise. Pupil dilation is linked to the activity in multiple neuromodulatory systems (e.g., activation of the locus coeruleus and the release of the neurotransmitter norepinephrine (LC-NE system)), which are involved in supporting processes for executive control. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to compare the cognitive activation measured by pupil diameter during an acute bout of resistance exercise on stable and unstable surfaces. METHODS 18 participants (23.5 ± 1.5 years; 10 females) performed ten kettlebell squats in a preferred repetition velocity in stable and unstable (BOSU® Balance Trainer) ground conditions. Pupil diameter was recorded with eye tracking glasses (SMI ETG) during standing (baseline) and during squatting. Raw pupil data were cleaned of artifacts (missing values were linearly interpolated) and subjected to a subtractive baseline correction. A student t-test was used to compare mean pupil diameter between ground conditions. RESULTS The mean pupil diameter was significantly greater during squats in the unstable condition than in the stable condition, t (17) = -2.63, p =.018, Cohen's dZ = -0.62; stable: 0.49 ± 0.32 mm; unstable: 0.61 ± 0.25 mm). CONCLUSION As indicated by pupil dilation, the use of unstable devices can increase the cognitive activation and effort during acute bouts of resistance exercise. Since pupil dilation is only an indirect method, further investigations are necessary to describe causes and effects of neuromodulatory system activity during resistance exercise. Resistance training with and without surface instability can be recommended to people of all ages as a physically and cognitively challenging training program contributing to the preservation of both physical and cognitive functioning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Claußen
- Institute of Sports and Sport Science, University of Kassel, Kassel, Germany.
| | - Tabea Heidelbach
- Institute of Sports and Sport Science, University of Kassel, Kassel, Germany
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Saito A, Murata H, Niitani K, Nagasaki J, Otoda A, Chujo Y, Yanagida J, Nishitani N, Deyama S, Kaneda K. Social defeat stress enhances the rewarding effects of cocaine through α 1A adrenoceptors in the medial prefrontal cortex of mice. Neuropharmacology 2024; 242:109757. [PMID: 37839511 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2023.109757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2023] [Revised: 10/07/2023] [Accepted: 10/07/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023]
Abstract
Various stressors potentiate the rewarding effects of cocaine and contribute to cocaine cravings. However, it remains unclear whether psychosocial stress enhances the rewarding effects of cocaine. Accordingly, this study employed a cocaine-conditioned place preference (CPP) paradigm combined with social defeat (SD) exposure to investigate the effects of acute SD stress on cocaine reward in male mice. We found that SD stress immediately before the posttest significantly increased cocaine CPP, and systemic blockade of α1 adrenoceptors, but not β adrenoceptors, suppressed this increase. Fiber photometry recordings with GRABNE1m sensors revealed increased noradrenaline (NA) levels in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) in test mice in response to attacks by aggressor mice during SD. Moreover, the SD stress-induced enhancement of CPP was effectively suppressed by intra-mPFC infusion of an α1 adrenoceptor antagonist. In vitro whole-cell recordings demonstrated that silodosin, an α1A, but not α1B or α1D, adrenoceptor antagonist, inhibited NA-induced depolarizing currents and facilitation of excitatory synaptic transmissions. Consistently, intra-mPFC silodosin infusion significantly suppressed the SD stress-induced CPP enhancement. Conversely, intra-mPFC infusion of α1A adrenoceptor agonist augmented cocaine CPP in the absence of stress exposure. Additionally, intranasal silodosin administration attenuated the SD stress-induced enhancement of CPP, and chemogenetic inhibition of mPFC excitatory neurons also suppressed the SD stress-induced CPP enhancement. Together, these findings suggest that NA stimulation of α1A adrenoceptors and the subsequent activation of mPFC pyramidal cells may contribute to SD stress-induced amplification of the rewarding effects of cocaine, and intranasal silodosin administration may hold therapeutic potential for mitigating stress-associated cocaine craving.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atsushi Saito
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Institute of Medical, Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, 920-1192, Japan
| | - Haruka Murata
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Institute of Medical, Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, 920-1192, Japan
| | - Kazuhei Niitani
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Institute of Medical, Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, 920-1192, Japan
| | - Junpei Nagasaki
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Institute of Medical, Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, 920-1192, Japan
| | - Atsuki Otoda
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Institute of Medical, Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, 920-1192, Japan
| | - Yusuke Chujo
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Institute of Medical, Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, 920-1192, Japan
| | - Junko Yanagida
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Institute of Medical, Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, 920-1192, Japan
| | - Naoya Nishitani
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Institute of Medical, Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, 920-1192, Japan
| | - Satoshi Deyama
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Institute of Medical, Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, 920-1192, Japan
| | - Katsuyuki Kaneda
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Institute of Medical, Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, 920-1192, Japan.
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7
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Weber BL, Nicodemus MM, Hite AK, Spalding IR, Beaver JN, Scrimshaw LR, Kassis SK, Reichert JM, Ford MT, Russell CN, Hallal EM, Gilman TL. Heterotypic Stressors Unmask Behavioral Influences of PMAT Deficiency in Mice. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:16494. [PMID: 38003684 PMCID: PMC10671398 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242216494] [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: 09/08/2023] [Revised: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Certain life stressors having enduring physiological and behavioral consequences, in part by eliciting dramatic signaling shifts in monoamine neurotransmitters. High monoamine levels can overwhelm selective transporters like the serotonin transporter. This is when polyspecific transporters like plasma membrane monoamine transporter (PMAT, Slc29a4) are hypothesized to contribute most to monoaminergic signaling regulation. Here, we employed two distinct counterbalanced stressors-fear conditioning and swim stress-in mice to systematically determine how reductions in PMAT function affect heterotypic stressor responsivity. We hypothesized that male heterozygotes would exhibit augmented stressor responses relative to female heterozygotes. Decreased PMAT function enhanced context fear expression, an effect unexpectedly obscured by a sham stress condition. Impaired cued fear extinction retention and enhanced context fear expression in males were conversely unmasked by a sham swim condition. Abrogated corticosterone levels in male heterozygotes that underwent swim stress after context fear conditioning did not map onto any measured behaviors. In sum, male heterozygous mouse fear behaviors proved malleable in response to preceding stressor or sham stress exposure. Combined, these data indicate that reduced male PMAT function elicits a form of stress-responsive plasticity. Future studies should assess how PMAT is differentially affected across sexes and identify downstream consequences of the stress-shifted corticosterone dynamics.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - T. Lee Gilman
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Brain Health Research Institute, Healthy Communities Research Institute, Kent State University, Kent, OH 44240, USA
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Weber BL, Nicodemus MM, Hite AK, Spalding IR, Beaver JN, Scrimshaw LR, Kassis SK, Reichert JM, Ford MT, Russell CN, Hallal EM, Gilman TL. Heterotypic stressors unmask behavioral influences of PMAT deficiency in mice. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.08.30.555632. [PMID: 37693400 PMCID: PMC10491137 DOI: 10.1101/2023.08.30.555632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/12/2023]
Abstract
Certain life stressors having enduring physiological and behavioral consequences, in part by eliciting dramatic signaling shifts in monoamine neurotransmitters. High monoamine levels can overwhelm selective transporters like the serotonin transporter. This is when polyspecific transporters like plasma membrane monoamine transporter (PMAT, Slc29a4) are hypothesized to contribute most to monoaminergic signaling regulation. Here, we employed two distinct counterbalanced stressors - fear conditioning, and swim stress - in mice to systematically determine how reductions in PMAT function affect heterotypic stressor responsivity. We hypothesized male heterozygotes would exhibit augmented stressor responses relative to female heterozygotes. Decreased PMAT function enhanced context fear expression, an effect unexpectedly obscured by a sham stress condition. Impaired cued fear extinction retention and enhanced context fear expression in males were conversely unmasked by a sham swim condition. Abrogated corticosterone levels in male heterozygotes that underwent swim stress after context fear conditioning did not map on to any measured behaviors. In sum, male heterozygous mouse fear behaviors proved malleable in response to preceding stressor or sham stress exposure. Combined, these data indicate reduced male PMAT function elicits a form of stress-responsive plasticity. Future studies should assess how PMAT is differentially affected across sexes and identify downstream consequences of the stress-shifted corticosterone dynamics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brady L Weber
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Brain Health Research Institute, Healthy Communities Research Institute, Kent State University, Kent, OH, USA
| | - Marissa M Nicodemus
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Brain Health Research Institute, Healthy Communities Research Institute, Kent State University, Kent, OH, USA
| | - Allianna K Hite
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Brain Health Research Institute, Healthy Communities Research Institute, Kent State University, Kent, OH, USA
| | - Isabella R Spalding
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Brain Health Research Institute, Healthy Communities Research Institute, Kent State University, Kent, OH, USA
| | - Jasmin N Beaver
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Brain Health Research Institute, Healthy Communities Research Institute, Kent State University, Kent, OH, USA
| | - Lauren R Scrimshaw
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Brain Health Research Institute, Healthy Communities Research Institute, Kent State University, Kent, OH, USA
| | - Sarah K Kassis
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Brain Health Research Institute, Healthy Communities Research Institute, Kent State University, Kent, OH, USA
| | - Julie M Reichert
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Brain Health Research Institute, Healthy Communities Research Institute, Kent State University, Kent, OH, USA
| | - Matthew T Ford
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Brain Health Research Institute, Healthy Communities Research Institute, Kent State University, Kent, OH, USA
| | - Cameron N Russell
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Brain Health Research Institute, Healthy Communities Research Institute, Kent State University, Kent, OH, USA
| | - Elayna M Hallal
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Brain Health Research Institute, Healthy Communities Research Institute, Kent State University, Kent, OH, USA
| | - T Lee Gilman
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Brain Health Research Institute, Healthy Communities Research Institute, Kent State University, Kent, OH, USA
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9
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Arnsten AFT, Ishizawa Y, Xie Z. Scientific rationale for the use of α2A-adrenoceptor agonists in treating neuroinflammatory cognitive disorders. Mol Psychiatry 2023; 28:4540-4552. [PMID: 37029295 PMCID: PMC10080530 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-023-02057-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2022] [Revised: 03/22/2023] [Accepted: 03/24/2023] [Indexed: 04/09/2023]
Abstract
Neuroinflammatory disorders preferentially impair the higher cognitive and executive functions of the prefrontal cortex (PFC). This includes such challenging disorders as delirium, perioperative neurocognitive disorder, and the sustained cognitive deficits from "long-COVID" or traumatic brain injury. There are no FDA-approved treatments for these symptoms; thus, understanding their etiology is important for generating therapeutic strategies. The current review describes the molecular rationale for why PFC circuits are especially vulnerable to inflammation, and how α2A-adrenoceptor (α2A-AR) actions throughout the nervous and immune systems can benefit the circuits in PFC needed for higher cognition. The layer III circuits in the dorsolateral PFC (dlPFC) that generate and sustain the mental representations needed for higher cognition have unusual neurotransmission and neuromodulation. They are wholly dependent on NMDAR neurotransmission, with little AMPAR contribution, and thus are especially vulnerable to kynurenic acid inflammatory signaling which blocks NMDAR. Layer III dlPFC spines also have unusual neuromodulation, with cAMP magnification of calcium signaling in spines, which opens nearby potassium channels to rapidly weaken connectivity and reduce neuronal firing. This process must be tightly regulated, e.g. by mGluR3 or α2A-AR on spines, to prevent loss of firing. However, the production of GCPII inflammatory signaling reduces mGluR3 actions and markedly diminishes dlPFC network firing. Both basic and clinical studies show that α2A-AR agonists such as guanfacine can restore dlPFC network firing and cognitive function, through direct actions in the dlPFC, but also by reducing the activity of stress-related circuits, e.g. in the locus coeruleus and amygdala, and by having anti-inflammatory actions in the immune system. This information is particularly timely, as guanfacine is currently the focus of large clinical trials for the treatment of delirium, and in open label studies for the treatment of cognitive deficits from long-COVID.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy F T Arnsten
- Department Neuroscience, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, 056510, USA.
| | - Yumiko Ishizawa
- Department Anesthesiology, Critical Care and Pain Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02114, USA
| | - Zhongcong Xie
- Department Anesthesiology, Critical Care and Pain Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02114, USA
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10
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El Mansari M, Hamoudeh R, Daniels S, Blier P. Wistar Kyoto rats exhibit decreased serotonin neuronal firing and increased norepinephrine burst activity but dampened hippocampal α 2-adrenoceptor sensitivity. J Psychopharmacol 2023; 37:1105-1115. [PMID: 37942525 DOI: 10.1177/02698811231209235] [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] [Indexed: 11/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Wistar Kyoto (WKY) rats manifest abnormalities in the function of monoamine receptors and transporters, as well as levels of these neurotransmitters in the brain. The present study assessed alterations in the firing activity of serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine [5-HT]), norepinephrine (NE), and dopamine (DA) neurons, as well as the activity of 5-HT and NE receptors and transporters in the hippocampus. METHODS In vivo electrophysiological recordings were conducted in male WKY and Wistar rats. Extracellular single-unit recordings of 5-HT, NE, and DA neurons were performed. Recordings of pyramidal neurons were conducted in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) and the hippocampus, where direct application of 5-HT and NE by iontophoresis was also carried out. RESULTS The mean firing rate of 5-HT neurons was significantly decreased in WKY compared to Wistar rats. The burst activity of NE neurons was significantly increased in WKY, while their mean firing activity was not changed. There was no alteration in the firing, burst, and population activity of DA neurons in WKY animals. In the hippocampus, a decrease in sensitivity of α2-adrenoceptors, but not 5-HT receptors, was observed. There was, however, no change in the activity of 5-HT and NE transporters. The firing activity of mPFC pyramidal neurons was similar in WKY versus Wistar rats. CONCLUSION In WKY rats, there was a decrease in the firing activity of 5-HT neurons. There was also an enhanced burst activity of NE neurons, accompanied by a reduction in sensitivity of the α2-adrenoceptor in the hippocampus, inferring a decrease in NE transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mostafa El Mansari
- University of Ottawa Institute of Mental Health Research, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Rami Hamoudeh
- University of Ottawa Institute of Mental Health Research, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Stephen Daniels
- University of Ottawa Institute of Mental Health Research, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Pierre Blier
- University of Ottawa Institute of Mental Health Research, Ottawa, ON, Canada
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11
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Dietz AG, Weikop P, Hauglund N, Andersen M, Petersen NC, Rose L, Hirase H, Nedergaard M. Local extracellular K + in cortex regulates norepinephrine levels, network state, and behavioral output. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2023; 120:e2305071120. [PMID: 37774097 PMCID: PMC10556678 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2305071120] [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: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 10/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Extracellular potassium concentration ([K+]e) is known to increase as a function of arousal. [K+]e is also a potent modulator of transmitter release. Yet, it is not known whether [K+]e is involved in the neuromodulator release associated with behavioral transitions. We here show that manipulating [K+]e controls the local release of monoaminergic neuromodulators, including norepinephrine (NE), serotonin, and dopamine. Imposing a [K+]e increase is adequate to boost local NE levels, and conversely, lowering [K+]e can attenuate local NE. Electroencephalography analysis and behavioral assays revealed that manipulation of cortical [K+]e was sufficient to alter the sleep-wake cycle and behavior of mice. These observations point to the concept that NE levels in the cortex are not solely determined by subcortical release, but that local [K+]e dynamics have a strong impact on cortical NE. Thus, cortical [K+]e is an underappreciated regulator of behavioral transitions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Grostøl Dietz
- Center for Translational Neuromedicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of CopenhagenDK-2200, Copenhagen N, Denmark
| | - Pia Weikop
- Center for Translational Neuromedicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of CopenhagenDK-2200, Copenhagen N, Denmark
| | - Natalie Hauglund
- Center for Translational Neuromedicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of CopenhagenDK-2200, Copenhagen N, Denmark
| | - Mie Andersen
- Center for Translational Neuromedicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of CopenhagenDK-2200, Copenhagen N, Denmark
| | - Nicolas Caesar Petersen
- Center for Translational Neuromedicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of CopenhagenDK-2200, Copenhagen N, Denmark
| | - Laura Rose
- Center for Translational Neuromedicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of CopenhagenDK-2200, Copenhagen N, Denmark
| | - Hajime Hirase
- Center for Translational Neuromedicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of CopenhagenDK-2200, Copenhagen N, Denmark
- Center for Translational Neuromedicine, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY14642
| | - Maiken Nedergaard
- Center for Translational Neuromedicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of CopenhagenDK-2200, Copenhagen N, Denmark
- Center for Translational Neuromedicine, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY14642
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12
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Corrone M, Nanev A, Amato I, Bicknell R, Piantella S, Maruff P, van den Buuse M, Wright BJ. The brain-derived neurotrophic factor Val66met polymorphism is associated with better attention and working memory performance and resilience to mild chronic stress. Eur J Neurosci 2023; 58:3903-3916. [PMID: 37740693 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.16153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Revised: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/10/2023] [Indexed: 09/25/2023]
Abstract
The val66met polymorphism of the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) gene has been identified as a potential moderator for the relationship between chronic stress and executive functioning. However, whether the presence of the met allele increases cognitive vulnerability or resilience to stress has yet to be determined. Given the established effects of autonomic activity and psychological arousal on executive functioning, in the present study, 56 healthy university students completed self-report measures of chronic stress, positive arousal (vigour) and negative arousal (anxiety) and measured heart-rate variability to quantify autonomic activity. Participants then completed a cognitive test battery that measured attention, decision-making, visual learning and working memory. Regression analyses demonstrated that Val/met participants performed better on attention and working memory tasks than Val/val participants, but no differences were seen in decision-making and visual learning. Further, Val/met participants were protected from stress-related differences in attention seen in Val/val participants. Val66met was not associated with physiological or psychological arousal. This study demonstrates that val66met plays an important but selective role in cognitive performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle Corrone
- School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Aleshia Nanev
- School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Isabella Amato
- School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Rowena Bicknell
- School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Stefan Piantella
- School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Paul Maruff
- Cogstate Ltd, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Maarten van den Buuse
- School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Bradley J Wright
- School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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13
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Cardona-Acosta AM, Sial OK, Parise LF, Gnecco T, Enriquez Marti G, Bolaños-Guzmán CA. Alprazolam exposure during adolescence induces long-lasting dysregulation in reward sensitivity to morphine and second messenger signaling in the VTA-NAc pathway. Sci Rep 2023; 13:10872. [PMID: 37407659 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-37696-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Increased use of benzodiazepines in adolescents have been reported, with alprazolam (ALP) being the most abused. Drug abuse during adolescence can induce changes with lasting consequences. This study investigated the neurobiological consequences of ALP exposure during adolescence in C57BL/6J male mice. Mice received ALP (0, 0.5, 1.0 mg/kg) once/daily (postnatal day 35-49). Changes in responsiveness to morphine (2.5, 5.0 mg/kg), using the conditioned place preference paradigm, were assessed 24-h and 1-month after ALP exposure. In a separate experiment, mice received ALP (0, 0.5 mg/kg) and then sacrificed 24-h or 1-month after treatment to assess levels of extracellular signal regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2) gene expression, protein phosphorylation, and downstream targets (CREB, AKT) within the ventral tegmental area (VTA) and nucleus accumbens (NAc). ALP-pretreated mice developed a strong preference to the compartment(s) paired with a subthreshold dose (2.5 mg/kg) of MOR short-term, and this effect was also present in the 1-month group. Adolescent ALP exposure resulted in dysregulation of ERK-signaling within the VTA-NAc pathway 24-h and 1-month after ALP exposure. Results indicate ALP exposure during adolescence potentiates the rewarding properties of MOR and induces persistent changes in ERK-signaling within the VTA-NAc pathway, a brain circuit highly implicated in the regulation of both drug reward and mood- related behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Astrid M Cardona-Acosta
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences and Program in Neuroscience, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - Omar K Sial
- Department of Neuroscience, The Scripps Research Institute, Jupiter, FL, USA
| | - Lyonna F Parise
- Fishberg Department of Neuroscience, Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Tamara Gnecco
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences and Program in Neuroscience, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - Giselle Enriquez Marti
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences and Program in Neuroscience, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - Carlos A Bolaños-Guzmán
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences and Program in Neuroscience, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA.
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14
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Fesharaki Zadeh A, Arnsten AFT, Wang M. Scientific Rationale for the Treatment of Cognitive Deficits from Long COVID. Neurol Int 2023; 15:725-742. [PMID: 37368329 PMCID: PMC10303664 DOI: 10.3390/neurolint15020045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2023] [Revised: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Sustained cognitive deficits are a common and debilitating feature of "long COVID", but currently there are no FDA-approved treatments. The cognitive functions of the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (dlPFC) are the most consistently afflicted by long COVID, including deficits in working memory, motivation, and executive functioning. COVID-19 infection greatly increases kynurenic acid (KYNA) and glutamate carboxypeptidase II (GCPII) in brain, both of which can be particularly deleterious to PFC function. KYNA blocks both NMDA and nicotinic-alpha-7 receptors, the two receptors required for dlPFC neurotransmission, and GCPII reduces mGluR3 regulation of cAMP-calcium-potassium channel signaling, which weakens dlPFC network connectivity and reduces dlPFC neuronal firing. Two agents approved for other indications may be helpful in restoring dlPFC physiology: the antioxidant N-acetyl cysteine inhibits the production of KYNA, and the α2A-adrenoceptor agonist guanfacine regulates cAMP-calcium-potassium channel signaling in dlPFC and is also anti-inflammatory. Thus, these agents may be helpful in treating the cognitive symptoms of long COVID.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arman Fesharaki Zadeh
- Departments of Neurology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
- Departments of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
| | - Amy F. T. Arnsten
- Departments of Neuroscience, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA;
| | - Min Wang
- Departments of Neuroscience, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA;
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15
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Nisar R, Batool Z, Haider S. Electric foot-shock induces neurobehavioral aberrations due to imbalance in oxidative status, stress hormone, neurochemical profile, and irregular cortical-beta wave pattern in rats: A validated animal model of anxiety. Life Sci 2023; 323:121707. [PMID: 37084951 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2023.121707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2023] [Revised: 04/10/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 04/23/2023]
Abstract
Neuropsychiatric disorders can be modeled on animals to investigate the neural mechanism underlying these disorders. Models of neuropsychiatric disorders, such as anxiety, basically aim to produce the signs and symptoms of human anxiety disorders in laboratory animals. Electric foot-shock is recommended to induce anxiety-like symptoms in rodents. For this purpose, however, a range of current intensities is available in the literature. The present study aims to modify the existing practices of generating anxiety-like symptoms through electric foot-shock by identifying an optimum current intensity and combing it with behavioral paradigms to produce a rat model of anxiety. Furthermore, the validity of the model was confirmed by checking the fulfillment of three validity criteria necessary for the development of any disease model including face validity, construct validity, and predictive validity. In the current study, after pre-testing, 1.0 mA electric intensity was selected to produce the model of anxiety. The results showed that the induction of 1.0 mA electric foot-shock induces abnormal behavioral effects which were similar to anxiety-like effects as evident by social interaction test, light-dark transition test, and open field test. Moreover, aberrations in the levels of the stress hormone, oxidative stress parameters, hippocampal neurotransmitter levels, and cortical-EEG wave pattern were also observed in the rat model of anxiety which were successfully overcome using diazepam. In conclusion, the outcome of our study suggests that electric foot-shock can be an adequate stressor to produce a validated animal model of anxiety and this model can be confidently used to identify and screen new and/or novel anxiolytics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rida Nisar
- Husein Ebrahim Jamal Research Institute of Chemistry, International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences, University of Karachi, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Zehra Batool
- Dr. Panjwani Center for Molecular Medicine and Drug Research, International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences, University of Karachi, Karachi, Pakistan.
| | - Saida Haider
- Neurochemistry and Biochemical Neuropharmacology Research Unit, Department of Biochemistry, University of Karachi, Karachi, Pakistan
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16
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Arnsten AFT, Joyce MKP, Roberts AC. The Aversive Lens: Stress effects on the prefrontal-cingulate cortical pathways that regulate emotion. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2023; 145:105000. [PMID: 36529312 PMCID: PMC9898199 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2022.105000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2022] [Revised: 12/08/2022] [Accepted: 12/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
ARNSTEN, A.F.T., M.K.P. Joyce and A.C. Roberts. The Aversive Lens: Stress effects on the prefrontal-cingulate cortical pathways that regulate emotion. NEUROSCI BIOBEHAV REV XXX-XXX, 2022. The symptoms of major-depressive-disorder include psychic pain and anhedonia, i.e. seeing the world through an "aversive lens". The neurobiology underlying this shift in worldview is emerging. Here these data are reviewed, focusing on how activation of subgenual cingulate (BA25) induces an "aversive lens", and how higher prefrontal cortical (PFC) areas (BA46/10/32) provide top-down regulation of BA25 but are weakened by excessive dopamine and norepinephrine release during stress exposure, and dendritic spine loss with chronic stress exposure. These changes may generate an attractor state, which maintains the brain under the control of BA25, requiring medication or neuromodulatory treatments to return connectivity to a more flexible state. In line with this hypothesis, effective anti-depressant treatments reduce the activity of BA25 and restore top-down regulation by higher circuits, e.g. as seen with SSRI medications, ketamine, deep brain stimulation of BA25, or rTMS to strengthen dorsolateral PFC. This research has special relevance in an era of chronic stress caused by the COVID19 pandemic, political unrest and threat of climate change.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy F T Arnsten
- Department of Neuroscience, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA.
| | - Mary Kate P Joyce
- Department of Neuroscience, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA.
| | - Angela C Roberts
- Department Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, and Behavioural and Clinical Neuroscience Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3DY, UK.
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17
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Busceti CL, Bucci D, Scioli M, Di Pietro P, Nicoletti F, Puglisi-Allegra S, Ferrucci M, Fornai F. Chronic treatment with corticosterone increases the number of tyrosine hydroxylase-expressing cells within specific nuclei of the brainstem reticular formation. Front Neuroanat 2022; 16:976714. [DOI: 10.3389/fnana.2022.976714] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cushing's syndrome is due to increased glucocorticoid levels in the body, and it is characterized by several clinical alterations which concern both vegetative and behavioral functions. The anatomical correlates of these effects remain largely unknown. Apart from peripheral effects induced by corticosteroids as counter-insular hormones, only a few reports are available concerning the neurobiology of glucocorticoid-induced vegetative and behavioral alterations. In the present study, C57 Black mice were administered daily a chronic treatment with corticosterone in drinking water. This treatment produces a significant and selective increase of TH-positive neurons within two nuclei placed in the lateral column of the brainstem reticular formation. These alterations significantly correlate with selective domains of Cushing's syndrome. Specifically, the increase of TH neurons within area postrema significantly correlates with the development of glucose intolerance, which is in line with the selective control by area postrema of vagal neurons innervating the pancreas. The other nucleus corresponds to the retrorubral field, which is involved in the behavioral activity. In detail, the retrorubral field is likely to modulate anxiety and mood disorders, which frequently occur following chronic exposure to glucocorticoids. To our knowledge, this is the first study that provides the neuroanatomical basis underlying specific symptoms occurring in Cushing's syndrome.
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18
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Lustberg DJ, Liu JQ, Iannitelli AF, Vanderhoof SO, Liles LC, McCann KE, Weinshenker D. Norepinephrine and dopamine contribute to distinct repetitive behaviors induced by novel odorant stress in male and female mice. Horm Behav 2022; 144:105205. [PMID: 35660247 PMCID: PMC10216880 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2022.105205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2022] [Revised: 05/18/2022] [Accepted: 05/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Exposure to unfamiliar odorants induces an array of repetitive defensive and non-defensive behaviors in rodents which likely reflect adaptive stress responses to the uncertain valence of novel stimuli. Mice genetically deficient for dopamine β-hydroxylase (Dbh-/-) lack the enzyme required to convert dopamine (DA) into norepinephrine (NE), resulting in globally undetectable NE and supranormal DA levels. Because catecholamines modulate novelty detection and reactivity, we investigated the effects of novel plant-derived odorants on repetitive behaviors in Dbh-/- mice and Dbh+/- littermate controls, which have catecholamine levels comparable to wild-type mice. Unlike Dbh+/- controls, which exhibited vigorous digging in response to novel odorants, Dbh-/- mice displayed excessive grooming. Drugs that block NE synthesis or neurotransmission suppressed odorant-induced digging in Dbh+/- mice, while a DA receptor antagonist attenuated grooming in Dbh-/- mice. The testing paradigm elicited high circulating levels of corticosterone regardless of Dbh genotype, indicating that NE is dispensable for this systemic stress response. Odorant exposure increased NE and DA abundance in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) of Dbh+/- mice, while Dbh-/- animals lacked NE and had elevated PFC DA levels that were unaffected by novel smells. Together, these findings suggest that novel odorant-induced increases in central NE tone contribute to repetitive digging and reflect psychological stress, while central DA signaling contributes to repetitive grooming. Further, we have established a simple method for repeated assessment of stress-induced repetitive behaviors in mice, which may be relevant for modeling neuropsychiatric disorders like Tourette syndrome or obsessive-compulsive disorder that are characterized by stress-induced exacerbation of compulsive symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel J Lustberg
- Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Joyce Q Liu
- Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Alexa F Iannitelli
- Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Samantha O Vanderhoof
- Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - L Cameron Liles
- Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Katharine E McCann
- Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - David Weinshenker
- Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA.
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19
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Hui M, Beier KT. Defining the interconnectivity of the medial prefrontal cortex and ventral midbrain. Front Mol Neurosci 2022; 15:971349. [PMID: 35935333 PMCID: PMC9354837 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2022.971349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Dysfunction in dopamine (DA) signaling contributes to neurological disorders ranging from drug addiction and schizophrenia to depression and Parkinson’s Disease. How might impairment of one neurotransmitter come to effect these seemingly disparate diseases? One potential explanation is that unique populations of DA-releasing cells project to separate brain regions that contribute to different sets of behaviors. Though dopaminergic cells themselves are spatially restricted to the midbrain and constitute a relatively small proportion of all neurons, their projections influence many brain regions. DA is particularly critical for the activity and function of medial prefrontal cortical (mPFC) ensembles. The midbrain and mPFC exhibit reciprocal connectivity – the former innervates the mPFC, and in turn, the mPFC projects back to the midbrain. Viral mapping studies have helped elucidate the connectivity within and between these regions, which likely have broad implications for DA-dependent behaviors. In this review, we discuss advancements in our understanding of the connectivity between the mPFC and midbrain DA system, focusing primarily on rodent models.
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Affiliation(s)
- May Hui
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, United States
| | - Kevin T. Beier
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, United States
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, United States
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, United States
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, United States
- Center for the Neurobiology of Learning and Memory, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, United States
- UCI Mind, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, United States
- *Correspondence: Kevin T. Beier,
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20
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Gutiérrez IL, Dello Russo C, Novellino F, Caso JR, García-Bueno B, Leza JC, Madrigal JLM. Noradrenaline in Alzheimer's Disease: A New Potential Therapeutic Target. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23116143. [PMID: 35682822 PMCID: PMC9181823 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23116143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2022] [Revised: 05/27/2022] [Accepted: 05/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
A growing body of evidence demonstrates the important role of the noradrenergic system in the pathogenesis of many neurodegenerative processes, especially Alzheimer’s disease, due to its ability to control glial activation and chemokine production resulting in anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects. Noradrenaline involvement in this disease was first proposed after finding deficits of noradrenergic neurons in the locus coeruleus from Alzheimer’s disease patients. Based on this, it has been hypothesized that the early loss of noradrenergic projections and the subsequent reduction of noradrenaline brain levels contribute to cognitive dysfunctions and the progression of neurodegeneration. Several studies have focused on analyzing the role of noradrenaline in the development and progression of Alzheimer’s disease. In this review we summarize some of the most relevant data describing the alterations of the noradrenergic system normally occurring in Alzheimer’s disease as well as experimental studies in which noradrenaline concentration was modified in order to further analyze how these alterations affect the behavior and viability of different nervous cells. The combination of the different studies here presented suggests that the maintenance of adequate noradrenaline levels in the central nervous system constitutes a key factor of the endogenous defense systems that help prevent or delay the development of Alzheimer’s disease. For this reason, the use of noradrenaline modulating drugs is proposed as an interesting alternative therapeutic option for Alzheimer’s disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene L. Gutiérrez
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Medicine, Universidad Complutense de Madrid (UCM), Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Hospital 12 de Octubre (Imas12), Instituto de Investigación Neuroquímica (IUINQ-UCM), Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental (CIBERSAM), Avda. Complutense s/n, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (I.L.G.); (F.N.); (J.R.C.); (B.G.-B.); (J.C.L.)
| | - Cinzia Dello Russo
- Department of Healthcare Surveillance and Bioethics, Section of Pharmacology, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy;
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Institute of Systems, Molecular and Integrative Biology (ISMIB), University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 3GL, UK
| | - Fabiana Novellino
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Medicine, Universidad Complutense de Madrid (UCM), Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Hospital 12 de Octubre (Imas12), Instituto de Investigación Neuroquímica (IUINQ-UCM), Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental (CIBERSAM), Avda. Complutense s/n, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (I.L.G.); (F.N.); (J.R.C.); (B.G.-B.); (J.C.L.)
- Institute of Molecular Bioimaging and Physiology (IBFM), National Research Council, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Javier R. Caso
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Medicine, Universidad Complutense de Madrid (UCM), Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Hospital 12 de Octubre (Imas12), Instituto de Investigación Neuroquímica (IUINQ-UCM), Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental (CIBERSAM), Avda. Complutense s/n, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (I.L.G.); (F.N.); (J.R.C.); (B.G.-B.); (J.C.L.)
| | - Borja García-Bueno
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Medicine, Universidad Complutense de Madrid (UCM), Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Hospital 12 de Octubre (Imas12), Instituto de Investigación Neuroquímica (IUINQ-UCM), Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental (CIBERSAM), Avda. Complutense s/n, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (I.L.G.); (F.N.); (J.R.C.); (B.G.-B.); (J.C.L.)
| | - Juan C. Leza
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Medicine, Universidad Complutense de Madrid (UCM), Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Hospital 12 de Octubre (Imas12), Instituto de Investigación Neuroquímica (IUINQ-UCM), Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental (CIBERSAM), Avda. Complutense s/n, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (I.L.G.); (F.N.); (J.R.C.); (B.G.-B.); (J.C.L.)
| | - José L. M. Madrigal
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Medicine, Universidad Complutense de Madrid (UCM), Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Hospital 12 de Octubre (Imas12), Instituto de Investigación Neuroquímica (IUINQ-UCM), Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental (CIBERSAM), Avda. Complutense s/n, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (I.L.G.); (F.N.); (J.R.C.); (B.G.-B.); (J.C.L.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-91-394-1463
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21
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Niu M, Kasai A, Tanuma M, Seiriki K, Igarashi H, Kuwaki T, Nagayasu K, Miyaji K, Ueno H, Tanabe W, Seo K, Yokoyama R, Ohkubo J, Ago Y, Hayashida M, Inoue KI, Takada M, Yamaguchi S, Nakazawa T, Kaneko S, Okuno H, Yamanaka A, Hashimoto H. Claustrum mediates bidirectional and reversible control of stress-induced anxiety responses. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2022; 8:eabi6375. [PMID: 35302853 PMCID: PMC8932664 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abi6375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2021] [Accepted: 01/26/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The processing of stress responses involves brain-wide communication among cortical and subcortical regions; however, the underlying mechanisms remain elusive. Here, we show that the claustrum (CLA) is crucial for the control of stress-induced anxiety-related behaviors. A combined approach using brain activation mapping and machine learning showed that the CLA activation serves as a reliable marker of exposure to acute stressors. In TRAP2 mice, which allow activity-dependent genetic labeling, chemogenetic activation of the CLA neuronal ensemble tagged by acute social defeat stress (DS) elicited anxiety-related behaviors, whereas silencing of the CLA ensemble attenuated DS-induced anxiety-related behaviors. Moreover, the CLA received strong input from DS-activated basolateral amygdala neurons, and its circuit-selective optogenetic photostimulation temporarily elicited anxiety-related behaviors. Last, silencing of the CLA ensemble during stress exposure increased resistance to chronic DS. The CLA thus bidirectionally controls stress-induced emotional responses, and its inactivation can serve as a preventative strategy to increase stress resilience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Misaki Niu
- Laboratory of Molecular Neuropharmacology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Atsushi Kasai
- Laboratory of Molecular Neuropharmacology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Masato Tanuma
- Laboratory of Molecular Neuropharmacology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Kaoru Seiriki
- Laboratory of Molecular Neuropharmacology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
- Institute for Transdisciplinary Graduate Degree Programs, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Hisato Igarashi
- Laboratory of Molecular Neuropharmacology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Takahiro Kuwaki
- Laboratory of Molecular Neuropharmacology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Kazuki Nagayasu
- Laboratory of Molecular Neuropharmacology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Keita Miyaji
- Laboratory of Molecular Neuropharmacology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Hiroki Ueno
- Laboratory of Molecular Neuropharmacology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Wataru Tanabe
- Laboratory of Molecular Neuropharmacology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Kei Seo
- Laboratory of Molecular Neuropharmacology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Rei Yokoyama
- Laboratory of Molecular Neuropharmacology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Jin Ohkubo
- Laboratory of Molecular Neuropharmacology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Yukio Ago
- Laboratory of Molecular Neuropharmacology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Misuzu Hayashida
- Laboratory of Molecular Neuropharmacology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Ken-ichi Inoue
- Systems Neuroscience Section, Primate Research Institute, Kyoto University, Aichi, Japan
- PRESTO, Japan Science and Technology Agency, Saitama, Japan
| | - Masahiko Takada
- Systems Neuroscience Section, Primate Research Institute, Kyoto University, Aichi, Japan
| | - Shun Yamaguchi
- Department of Morphological Neuroscience, Graduate School of Medicine, Gifu University, Gifu, Japan
- Center for Highly Advanced Integration of Nano and Life Sciences, Gifu University, Gifu, Japan
| | - Takanobu Nakazawa
- Laboratory of Molecular Neuropharmacology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
- Department of Pharmacology, Graduate School of Dentistry, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
- Department of Bioscience, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shuji Kaneko
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Okuno
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Kagoshima University, Kagoshima, Japan
| | - Akihiro Yamanaka
- Department of Neuroscience II, Research Institute of Environmental Medicine, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Hitoshi Hashimoto
- Laboratory of Molecular Neuropharmacology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
- Molecular Research Center for Children’s Mental Development, United Graduate School of Child Development, Osaka University, Kanazawa University, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Chiba University, and University of Fukui, Osaka Japan
- Division of Bioscience, Institute for Datability Science, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
- Transdimensional Life Imaging Division, Institute for Open and Transdisciplinary Research Initiatives, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
- Department of Molecular Pharmaceutical Sciences, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
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22
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Yu ZY, Yi X, Wang YR, Zeng GH, Tan CR, Cheng Y, Sun PY, Liu ZH, Wang YJ, Liu YH. Inhibiting α1-adrenergic receptor signaling pathway ameliorates AD-type pathologies and behavioral deficits in APPswe/PS1 mouse model. J Neurochem 2022; 161:293-307. [PMID: 35244207 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.15603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2021] [Revised: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 02/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Zhong-Yuan Yu
- Department of Neurology and Centre for Clinical Neuroscience, Daping Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xu Yi
- Department of Neurology and Centre for Clinical Neuroscience, Daping Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Ye-Ran Wang
- Department of Neurology and Centre for Clinical Neuroscience, Daping Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Gui-Hua Zeng
- Department of Neurology and Centre for Clinical Neuroscience, Daping Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Cheng-Rong Tan
- Department of Neurology and Centre for Clinical Neuroscience, Daping Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yuan Cheng
- Department of Neurology and Centre for Clinical Neuroscience, Daping Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Pu-Yang Sun
- Department of Neurology and Centre for Clinical Neuroscience, Daping Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Zhi-Hao Liu
- Department of Neurology and Centre for Clinical Neuroscience, Daping Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yan-Jiang Wang
- Department of Neurology and Centre for Clinical Neuroscience, Daping Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China.,Chongqing Key Laboratory of Ageing and Brain Diseases, Chongqing, China.,Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Yu-Hui Liu
- Department of Neurology and Centre for Clinical Neuroscience, Daping Hospital, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, China
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23
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Bremner JD, Wittbrodt MT, Gurel NZ, Shandhi MH, Gazi AH, Jiao Y, Levantsevych OM, Huang M, Beckwith J, Herring I, Murrah N, Driggers EG, Ko YA, Alkhalaf ML, Soudan M, Shallenberger L, Hankus AN, Nye JA, Park J, Woodbury A, Mehta PK, Rapaport MH, Vaccarino V, Shah AJ, Pearce BD, Inan OT. Transcutaneous Cervical Vagal Nerve Stimulation in Patients with Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): A Pilot Study of Effects on PTSD Symptoms and Interleukin-6 Response to Stress. JOURNAL OF AFFECTIVE DISORDERS REPORTS 2021; 6:100190. [PMID: 34778863 PMCID: PMC8580056 DOI: 10.1016/j.jadr.2021.100190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a highly disabling condition associated with alterations in multiple neurobiological systems, including increases in inflammatory and sympathetic function, responsible for maintenance of symptoms. Treatment options including medications and psychotherapies have limitations. We previously showed that transcutaneous Vagus Nerve Stimulation (tcVNS) blocks inflammatory (interleukin (IL)-6) responses to stress in PTSD. The purpose of this study was to assess the effects of tcVNS on PTSD symptoms and inflammatory responses to stress. METHODS Twenty patients with PTSD were randomized to double blind active tcVNS (N=9) or sham (N=11) stimulation in conjunction with exposure to personalized traumatic scripts immediately followed by active or sham tcVNS and measurement of IL-6 and other biomarkers of inflammation. Patients then self administered active or sham tcVNS twice daily for three months. PTSD symptoms were measured with the PTSD Checklist (PCL) and the Clinician Administered PTSD Scale (CAPS), clinical improvement with the Clinical Global Index (CGI) and anxiety with the Hamilton Anxiety Scale (Ham-A) at baseline and one-month intervals followed by a repeat of measurement of biomarkers with traumatic scripts. After three months patients self treated with twice daily open label active tcVNS for another three months followed by assessment with the CGI. RESULTS Traumatic scripts increased IL-6 in PTSD patients, an effect that was blocked by tcVNS (p<.05). Active tcVNS treatment for three months resulted in a 31% greater reduction in PTSD symptoms compared to sham treatment as measured by the PCL (p=0.013) as well as hyperarousal symptoms and somatic anxiety measured with the Ham-A p<0.05). IL-6 increased from baseline in sham but not tcVNS. Open label tcVNS resulted in improvements measured with the CGI compared to the sham treatment period p<0.05). CONCLUSIONS These preliminary results suggest that tcVNS reduces inflammatory responses to stress, which may in part underlie beneficial effects on PTSD symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- J. Douglas Bremner
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
- Department of Radiology and Imaging Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
- Atlanta VA Medical Center, Decatur, Georgia
| | - Matthew T. Wittbrodt
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Nil Z. Gurel
- School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - MdMobashir H. Shandhi
- School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Asim H. Gazi
- School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Yunshen Jiao
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Oleksiy M. Levantsevych
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Minxuan Huang
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Joy Beckwith
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Isaias Herring
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Nancy Murrah
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Emily G. Driggers
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Yi-An Ko
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - MhmtJamil L. Alkhalaf
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Majd Soudan
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Lucy Shallenberger
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Allison N. Hankus
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Jonathon A. Nye
- Department of Radiology and Imaging Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Jeanie Park
- Atlanta VA Medical Center, Decatur, Georgia
- Department of Medicine, Renal Division, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Anna Woodbury
- Atlanta VA Medical Center, Decatur, Georgia
- Department of Anesthesiology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Puja K. Mehta
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Mark H. Rapaport
- Huntsman Mental Health Institute, Department of Psychiatry, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Viola Vaccarino
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Amit J. Shah
- Atlanta VA Medical Center, Decatur, Georgia
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Bradley D. Pearce
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Omer T. Inan
- School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia
- Coulter Department of Bioengineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia
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24
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Can acute resistance exercise facilitate episodic memory encoding? CURRENT PSYCHOLOGY 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s12144-021-02352-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
AbstractResearch has shown benefits of physical exercise on memory performance when carried out before or after a memory task. The effects of concurrent physical exercise and particularly resistance exercise are still inconclusive. The current study investigates the influence of resistance exercise with two intensities (fast and slow squats) on performance in a wordlist learning task using a within-subject design. Sport students (N = 58, Mage = 23 years; 26 women) were trained in a mnemonic technique to encode word lists (method of loci). In each session they were asked to encode two lists, each consisting of 20 words. During encoding, participants either performed one squat per word (fast-squat-condition), one squat every second word (slow-squat-condition), or stayed seated (control-condition). Participants performed three sessions for each condition, in counterbalanced order. Heart rates differed significantly according to exercise intensity. Memory performances in the sitting condition were better, compared to the exercise conditions. Performance in sitting and the fast squat conditions improved similarly over time, while performance in the slow squat condition increased faster, and reached the level of the fast squat condition at the end of the study phase. We conclude that light to moderate resistance exercise while working on an episodic memory task may rather represent a dual-task situation (= two tasks that compete for attentional resources). Especially doing a squat every second word may represent an inhibition task that people have to get used to. Future studies should include biochemical markers of arousal and neuronal plasticity in addition to heart rate.
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25
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Jung M, Ryu S, Kang M, Javadi AH, Loprinzi PD. Evaluation of the transient hypofrontality theory in the context of exercise: A systematic review with meta-analysis. Q J Exp Psychol (Hove) 2021; 75:1193-1214. [PMID: 34523365 DOI: 10.1177/17470218211048807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Accumulating research suggests that, as a result of reduced neural activity in the prefrontal cortex (PFC), higher-order cognitive function may be compromised while engaging in high-intensity acute exercise, with this phenomenon referred to as the transient hypofrontality effect. However, findings in this field remain unclear and lack a thorough synthesis of the evidence. Therefore, the purpose of this meta-analysis was to evaluate the effects of in-task acute exercise on cognitive function, and further, to examine whether this effect is moderated by the specific type of cognition (i.e., PFC-dependent vs. non-PFC-dependent). Studies were identified by electronic databases in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines. In total, 22 studies met our inclusion criteria and intercept only meta-regression models with robust variance estimation were used to calculate the weighted average effect sizes across studies. Acute exercise at all intensities did not influence cognitive function (β = -0.16, 95% CI = [-0.58, 0.27], p = .45) when exercise occurred during the cognitive task, and no significant moderation effects emerged. However, there was evidence that cognitive task type (PFC-dependent vs. non-PFC-dependent) moderated the effect of high-intensity acute exercise on a concomitant cognitive performance (β = -0.81, 95% CI = [-1.60, -0.02], p = .04). Specifically, our findings suggest that PFC-dependent cognition is impaired while engaging in an acute bout of high-intensity exercise, providing support for the transient hypofrontality theory. We discuss these findings in the context of reticular-activating and cognitive-energetic perspectives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Myungjin Jung
- Health and Sport Analytics Laboratory, Department of Health, Exercise Science and Recreation Management, The University of Mississippi, University, MS, USA.,Exercise & Memory Laboratory, Department of Health, Exercise Science and Recreation Management, The University of Mississippi, University, MS, USA
| | - Seungho Ryu
- Health and Sport Analytics Laboratory, Department of Health, Exercise Science and Recreation Management, The University of Mississippi, University, MS, USA
| | - Minsoo Kang
- Health and Sport Analytics Laboratory, Department of Health, Exercise Science and Recreation Management, The University of Mississippi, University, MS, USA
| | - Amir-Homayoun Javadi
- School of Psychology, University of Kent, Canterbury, UK.,Department of Experimental Psychology, Institute of Neuroscience, University College London, London, UK.,School of Rehabilitation, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Paul D Loprinzi
- Exercise & Memory Laboratory, Department of Health, Exercise Science and Recreation Management, The University of Mississippi, University, MS, USA
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26
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Oliveira LA, Pollo TRS, Rosa EA, Duarte JO, Xavier CH, Crestani CC. Both Prelimbic and Infralimbic Noradrenergic Neurotransmissions Modulate Cardiovascular Responses to Restraint Stress in Rats. Front Physiol 2021; 12:700540. [PMID: 34483957 PMCID: PMC8415160 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.700540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2021] [Accepted: 07/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The prelimbic (PL) and infralimbic (IL) subareas of the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) have been implicated in physiological and behavioral responses during aversive threats. The previous studies reported the noradrenaline release within the mPFC during stressful events, and the lesions of catecholaminergic terminals in this cortical structure affected stress-evoked local neuronal activation. Nevertheless, the role of mPFC adrenoceptors on cardiovascular responses during emotional stress is unknown. Thus, we investigated the role of adrenoceptors present within the PL and IL on the increase in both arterial pressure and heart rate (HR) and on the sympathetically mediated cutaneous vasoconstriction evoked by acute restraint stress. For this, bilateral guide cannulas were implanted into either the PL or IL of male rats. All animals were also subjected to catheter implantation into the femoral artery for cardiovascular recording. The increase in both arterial pressure and HR and the decrease in the tail skin temperature as an indirect measurement of sympathetically mediated cutaneous vasoconstriction were recorded during the restraint session. We observed that the microinjection of the selective α2-adrenoceptor antagonist RX821002 into either the PL or IL decreased the pressor response during restraint stress. Treatment of the PL or IL with either the α1-adrenoceptor antagonist WB4101 or the α2-adrenoceptor antagonist reduced the restraint-evoked tachycardia. The drop in the tail skin temperature was decreased by PL treatment with the β-adrenoceptor antagonist propranolol and with the α1- or α2-adrenoceptor antagonists. The α2-adrenoceptor antagonist into the IL also decreased the skin temperature response. Our results suggest that the noradrenergic neurotransmission in both PL and IL mediates the cardiovascular responses to aversive threats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leandro A Oliveira
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara, Brazil.,Joint Federal University of São Carlos (UFSCar) - São Paulo State University (UNESP) Graduate Program in Physiological Sciences, São Carlos, Brazil
| | - Taciana R S Pollo
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara, Brazil
| | - Elinéia A Rosa
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara, Brazil
| | - Josiane O Duarte
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara, Brazil.,Joint Federal University of São Carlos (UFSCar) - São Paulo State University (UNESP) Graduate Program in Physiological Sciences, São Carlos, Brazil
| | - Carlos H Xavier
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia, Brazil
| | - Carlos C Crestani
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara, Brazil.,Joint Federal University of São Carlos (UFSCar) - São Paulo State University (UNESP) Graduate Program in Physiological Sciences, São Carlos, Brazil
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27
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Woo E, Sansing LH, Arnsten AFT, Datta D. Chronic Stress Weakens Connectivity in the Prefrontal Cortex: Architectural and Molecular Changes. CHRONIC STRESS 2021; 5:24705470211029254. [PMID: 34485797 PMCID: PMC8408896 DOI: 10.1177/24705470211029254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2021] [Accepted: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Chronic exposure to uncontrollable stress causes loss of spines and dendrites in the prefrontal cortex (PFC), a recently evolved brain region that provides top-down regulation of thought, action, and emotion. PFC neurons generate top-down goals through recurrent excitatory connections on spines. This persistent firing is the foundation for higher cognition, including working memory, and abstract thought. However, exposure to acute uncontrollable stress drives high levels of catecholamine release in the PFC, which activates feedforward calcium-cAMP signaling pathways to open nearby potassium channels, rapidly weakening synaptic connectivity to reduce persistent firing. Chronic stress exposures can further exacerbate these signaling events leading to loss of spines and resulting in marked cognitive impairment. In this review, we discuss how stress signaling mechanisms can lead to spine loss, including changes to BDNF-mTORC1 signaling, calcium homeostasis, actin dynamics, and mitochondrial actions that engage glial removal of spines through inflammatory signaling. Stress signaling events may be amplified in PFC spines due to cAMP magnification of internal calcium release. As PFC dendritic spine loss is a feature of many cognitive disorders, understanding how stress affects the structure and function of the PFC will help to inform strategies for treatment and prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Woo
- Department of Neuroscience, Yale Medical School, New Haven, CT, USA.,Department of Neurology, Yale Medical School, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Lauren H Sansing
- Department of Neurology, Yale Medical School, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Amy F T Arnsten
- Department of Neuroscience, Yale Medical School, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Dibyadeep Datta
- Department of Neuroscience, Yale Medical School, New Haven, CT, USA
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28
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Modulation of behavioral and neurochemical responses of adult zebrafish by fluoxetine, eicosapentaenoic acid and lipopolysaccharide in the prolonged chronic unpredictable stress model. Sci Rep 2021; 11:14289. [PMID: 34253753 PMCID: PMC8275758 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-92422-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 05/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Long-term recurrent stress is a common cause of neuropsychiatric disorders. Animal models are widely used to study the pathogenesis of stress-related psychiatric disorders. The zebrafish (Danio rerio) is emerging as a powerful tool to study chronic stress and its mechanisms. Here, we developed a prolonged 11-week chronic unpredictable stress (PCUS) model in zebrafish to more fully mimic chronic stress in human populations. We also examined behavioral and neurochemical alterations in zebrafish, and attempted to modulate these states by 3-week treatment with an antidepressant fluoxetine, a neuroprotective omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), a pro-inflammatory endotoxin lipopolysaccharide (LPS), and their combinations. Overall, PCUS induced severe anxiety and elevated norepinephrine levels, whereas fluoxetine (alone or combined with other agents) corrected most of these behavioral deficits. While EPA and LPS alone had little effects on the zebrafish PCUS-induced anxiety behavior, both fluoxetine (alone or in combination) and EPA restored norepinephrine levels, whereas LPS + EPA increased dopamine levels. As these data support the validity of PCUS as an effective tool to study stress-related pathologies in zebrafish, further research is needed into the ability of various conventional and novel treatments to modulate behavioral and neurochemical biomarkers of chronic stress in this model organism.
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29
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Noradrenergic contributions to cue-driven risk-taking and impulsivity. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2021; 238:1765-1779. [PMID: 33649970 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-021-05806-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2020] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
RATIONALE The flashing lights and sounds of modern casinos are alluring and may contribute to the addictive nature of gambling. Such cues can have a profound impact on the noradrenaline (NA) system, which could therefore be a viable therapeutic target for gambling disorder (GD). While there is substantial evidence to support the involvement of NA in the impulsive symptoms of GD, its function in mediating the "pro-addictive" impact of cues is less understood. OBJECTIVE We wished to investigate the role of NA in our rodent assay of decision making and impulsivity, the cued rat gambling task (crGT). Given that sex differences are prominent in addiction disorders, and increasingly reported in the monoaminergic regulation of behaviour, we also prioritised evaluating noradrenergic drugs in both sexes. METHODS Female and male rats were trained to stability on the crGT and then given intraperitoneal injections of the noradrenaline reuptake inhibitor atomoxetine, the α2A receptor agonist guanfacine, the beta receptor antagonist propranolol, and the α2 receptor antagonist yohimbine. RESULTS Atomoxetine dose-dependently improved decision-making score. Guanfacine selectively enhanced decision making in risk-preferring males and optimal performing females. Propranolol and yohimbine did not influence decision making. Atomoxetine and guanfacine reduced premature responses, while yohimbine bi-phasically affected this index of motor impulsivity. CONCLUSIONS These results support the hypothesis that NA is an important neuromodulator of the cue-induced deficits in decision making observed in laboratory-based gambling paradigms, and suggest that NAergic drugs like atomoxetine and guanfacine may be useful in treating GD.
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30
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Tsai YJ, Hsieh SS, Huang CJ, Hung TM. Dose-Response Effects of Acute Aerobic Exercise Intensity on Inhibitory Control in Children With Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. Front Hum Neurosci 2021; 15:617596. [PMID: 34220467 PMCID: PMC8249764 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2021.617596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2020] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The present study aimed to examine whether the effect of acute aerobic exercise on inhibitory control of children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is moderated by exercise intensity. Using a within-subjects design, 25 children with ADHD completed a flanker task with concurrent collection of electroencephalography (EEG) data after three different intensities of treadmill running. The results showed that low- and moderate-intensity exercises resulted in shorter reaction times (RTs) relative to vigorous-intensity exercise during the incompatible condition of the flanker task regardless of task congruency. A P3 congruency effect was observed following low- and vigorous-intensity exercises but not after moderate-intensity exercise. The mean alpha power, a measure of cortical arousal, increased following low- and moderate-intensity exercises but decreased following vigorous-intensity exercise. In addition, the change in arousal level after moderate-intensity exercise was negatively correlated with RT during incompatible flanker tasks. The current findings suggest that children with ADHD have better inhibitory control following both low- and moderate-intensity exercises relative to vigorous aerobic exercise, which could be characterized by an optimal state of cortical arousal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Jung Tsai
- Department of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, National Taiwan Normal University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Shu-Shih Hsieh
- Department of Psychology, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Chung-Ju Huang
- Graduate Institute of Sport Pedagogy, University of Taipei, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Tsung-Min Hung
- Department of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, National Taiwan Normal University, Taipei, Taiwan.,Institute for Research Excellence in Learning Science, National Taiwan Normal University, Taipei, Taiwan
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31
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Yang S, Seo H, Wang M, Arnsten AFT. NMDAR Neurotransmission Needed for Persistent Neuronal Firing: Potential Roles in Mental Disorders. Front Psychiatry 2021; 12:654322. [PMID: 33897503 PMCID: PMC8064413 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.654322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2021] [Accepted: 02/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (dlPFC) generates the mental representations that are the foundation of abstract thought, and provides top-down regulation of emotion through projections to the medial PFC and cingulate cortices. Physiological recordings from dlPFC Delay cells have shown that the generation of mental representations during working memory relies on NMDAR neurotransmission, with surprisingly little contribution from AMPAR. Systemic administration of low "antidepressant" doses of the NMDAR antagonist, ketamine, erodes these representations and reduces dlPFC Delay cell firing. In contrast to the dlPFC, V1 neuronal firing to visual stimuli depends on AMPAR, with much less contribution from NMDAR. Similarly, neurons in the dlPFC that respond to sensory events (cue cells, response feedback cells) rely on AMPAR, and systemic ketamine increases their firing. Insults to NMDAR transmission, and the impaired ability for dlPFC to generate mental representations, may contribute to cognitive deficits in schizophrenia, e.g., from genetic insults that weaken NMDAR transmission, or from blockade of NMDAR by kynurenic acid. Elevated levels of kynurenic acid in dlPFC may also contribute to cognitive deficits in other disorders with pronounced neuroinflammation (e.g., Alzheimer's disease), or peripheral infections where kynurenine can enter brain (e.g., delirium from sepsis, "brain fog" in COVID19). Much less is known about NMDAR actions in the primate cingulate cortices. However, NMDAR neurotransmission appears to process the affective and visceral responses to pain and other aversive experiences mediated by the cingulate cortices, which may contribute to sustained alterations in mood state. We hypothesize that the very rapid, antidepressant effects of intranasal ketamine may involve the disruption of NMDAR-generated aversive mood states by the anterior and subgenual cingulate cortices, providing a "foot in the door" to allow the subsequent return of top-down regulation by higher PFC areas. Thus, the detrimental vs. therapeutic effects of NMDAR blockade may be circuit dependent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shengtao Yang
- Department of Neuroscience, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Hyojung Seo
- Department of Neuroscience, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Min Wang
- Department of Neuroscience, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Amy F. T. Arnsten
- Department of Neuroscience, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
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32
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Autophagy status as a gateway for stress-induced catecholamine interplay in neurodegeneration. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2021; 123:238-256. [PMID: 33497785 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2021.01.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2020] [Revised: 01/08/2021] [Accepted: 01/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The catecholamine-containing brainstem nuclei locus coeruleus (LC) and ventral tegmental area (VTA) are critically involved in stress responses. Alterations of catecholamine systems during chronic stress may contribute to neurodegeneration, including cognitive decline. Stress-related catecholamine alterations, while contributing to anxiety and depression, might accelerate neuronal degeneration by increasing the formation of toxic dopamine and norepinephrine by-products. These, in turn, may impair proteostasis within a variety of cortical and subcortical areas. In particular, the molecular events governing neurotransmission, neuroplasticity, and proteostasis within LC and VTA affect a variety of brain areas. Therefore, we focus on alterations of autophagy machinery in these nuclei as a relevant trigger in this chain of events. In fact, these catecholamine-containing areas are mostly prone to autophagy-dependent neurodegeneration. Thus, we propose a dynamic hypothesis according to which stress-induced autophagy alterations within the LC-VTA network foster a cascade towards early neurodegeneration within these nuclei.
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Dornellas APS, Macedo GC, McFarland MH, Gómez-A A, O'Buckley TK, Da Cunha C, Morrow AL, Robinson DL. Allopregnanolone Decreases Evoked Dopamine Release Differently in Rats by Sex and Estrous Stage. Front Pharmacol 2021; 11:608887. [PMID: 33519475 PMCID: PMC7840599 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.608887] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2020] [Accepted: 11/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Mesolimbic dopamine transmission is dysregulated in multiple psychiatric disorders, including addiction. Previous studies found that the endogenous GABAergic steroid (3α,5α)-3-hydroxy-5-pregnan-20-one (allopregnanolone) modulates dopamine levels in the nucleus accumbens and prefrontal cortex. As allopregnanolone is a potent positive allosteric modulator of GABAA receptors, and GABAA receptors can regulate dopamine release, we hypothesized that allopregnanolone would reduce phasic fluctuations in mesolimbic dopamine release that are important in learning and reward processing. We used fast-scan cyclic voltammetry in anesthetized female and male rats to measure dopamine release in the nucleus accumbens evoked by electrical stimulation of the ventral tegmental area, before and after administration of allopregnanolone. Allopregnanolone (7.5–25 mg/kg, IP) reduced evoked dopamine release in both male and female rats, compared to β-cyclodextrin vehicle. In males, all doses of allopregnanolone decreased dopamine transmission, with stronger effects at 15 and 25 mg/kg allopregnanolone. In females, 15 and 25 mg/kg allopregnanolone reduced dopamine release, while 7.5 mg/kg allopregnanolone was no different from vehicle. Since allopregnanolone is derived from progesterone, we hypothesized that high endogenous progesterone levels would result in lower sensitivity to allopregnanolone. Consistent with this, females in proestrus (high progesterone levels) were less responsive to allopregnanolone than females in other estrous cycle stages. Furthermore, 30 mg/kg progesterone reduced evoked dopamine release in males, similar to allopregnanolone. Our findings confirm that allopregnanolone reduces evoked dopamine release in both male and female rats. Moreover, sex and the estrous cycle modulated this effect of allopregnanolone. These results extend our knowledge about the pharmacological effects of neurosteroids on dopamine transmission, which may contribute to their therapeutic effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Paula S Dornellas
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, United States.,Laboratório de Fisiologia e Farmacologia do Paraná, Departments of Pharmacology and Biochemistry, Universidade Federal do Paraná, Curitiba, Brazil
| | - Giovana C Macedo
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, United States.,Department of Psychobiology, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, UNIFESP, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Minna H McFarland
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Alexander Gómez-A
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Todd K O'Buckley
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Claudio Da Cunha
- Laboratório de Fisiologia e Farmacologia do Paraná, Departments of Pharmacology and Biochemistry, Universidade Federal do Paraná, Curitiba, Brazil
| | - A Leslie Morrow
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, United States.,Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, United States.,Department of Pharmacology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Donita L Robinson
- Bowles Center for Alcohol Studies, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, United States.,Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
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Mott RO, Hawthorne SJ, McBride SD. Blink rate as a measure of stress and attention in the domestic horse (Equus caballus). Sci Rep 2020; 10:21409. [PMID: 33293559 PMCID: PMC7722727 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-78386-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2020] [Accepted: 11/06/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Measuring animal stress is fundamentally important for assessing animal emotional state and welfare. Conventional methods of quantifying stress (cortisol levels, heart rate/heart rate variability) require specialist equipment and are not instantly available. Spontaneous blink rate (SBR) has previously been used to measure stress responses in humans and may provide a non-invasive method for measuring stress in other animal species. Here we investigated the use of SBR as a measure of stress in the domestic horse. SBR was measured before and during a low-stress event (sham clipping) and compared with heart rate variability and salivary cortisol. For the entire sample, there was a reduction in SBR (startle response) during the first minute of clipping. For horses reactive to clipping, the initial reduction in SBR was followed by an increase above baseline whereas the SBR of the non-reactive horses quickly returned to baseline. For the entire sample, SBR correlated with heart rate variability and salivary cortisol. We have demonstrated that SBR is a valid fast alternative measure of stress in horses, but the initial 'startle' response must be considered when using this parameter as a measure of animal stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard O Mott
- The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, The University of Edinburgh, Midlothian, UK.
| | - Susan J Hawthorne
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ulster University, Coleraine, Co. Londonderry, UK
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Borodovitsyna O, Duffy BC, Pickering AE, Chandler DJ. Anatomically and functionally distinct locus coeruleus efferents mediate opposing effects on anxiety-like behavior. Neurobiol Stress 2020; 13:100284. [PMID: 33344735 PMCID: PMC7739179 DOI: 10.1016/j.ynstr.2020.100284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2020] [Revised: 11/19/2020] [Accepted: 12/02/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The locus coeruleus (LC) is a critical node in the stress response, and its activation has been shown to promote hypervigilance and anxiety-like behavior. This noradrenergic nucleus has historically been considered homogeneous with highly divergent neurons that operate en masse to collectively affect central nervous system function and behavioral state. However, in recent years, LC has been identified as a heterogeneous structure whose neurons innervate discrete terminal fields and contribute to distinct aspects of behavior. We have previously shown that in late adolescent male rats, an acute traumatic stressor, simultaneous physical restraint and exposure to predator odor, preferentially induces c-Fos expression in a subset of dorsal LC neurons and persistently increases anxiety-like behavior. To investigate how these neurons respond to and contribute to the behavioral response to stress, we used a combination of retrograde tracing, whole-cell patch clamp electrophysiology, and chemogenetics. Here we show that LC neurons innervating the central nucleus of the amygdala (CeA) and medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) undergo distinct electrophysiological changes in response to stressor exposure and have opposing roles in mediating anxiety-like behavior. While neurons innervating CeA become more excitable in response to stress and promote anxiety-like behavior, those innervating mPFC become less excitable and appear to promote exploration. These findings show that LC neurons innervating distinct terminal fields have unique physiological responses to particular stimuli. Furthermore, these observations advance the understanding of the LC as a complex and heterogeneous structure whose neurons maintain unique roles in various forms of behavior. Locus coeruleus-central amygdala projections are hyperactive one week after stress. Locus coeruleus-prefrontal cortex projections are hypoactive one week after stress. Chemogenetic manipulation of each pathway distinctly affects anxiety-like behavior.
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Key Words
- AHP, afterhyperpolarization
- Anxiety-like behavior
- CRF, corticotropin releasing factor
- CeA, central nucleus of the amygdala
- Central nucleus of amygdala
- EPM, elevated plus maze
- LC, locus coeruleus
- Locus coeruleus
- Medial prefrontal cortex
- NE, norepinephrine
- OFT, open field test
- PBS, phosphate buffered saline
- Stress
- TMT, 2,4,5-trimethylthiazole
- aCSF, artificial cerebrospinal fluid
- mPFC, medial prefrontal cortex
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Affiliation(s)
- Olga Borodovitsyna
- Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine, 42 E. Laurel Road, Stratford, NJ, 08084, USA
| | - Brenna C Duffy
- Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine, 42 E. Laurel Road, Stratford, NJ, 08084, USA
| | - Anthony E Pickering
- School of Physiology, Pharmacology & Neuroscience, University of Bristol, Biomedical Sciences Building, University Walk, Bristol, BS81TD, UK
| | - Daniel J Chandler
- Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine, 42 E. Laurel Road, Stratford, NJ, 08084, USA
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Arnsten AFT. Guanfacine's mechanism of action in treating prefrontal cortical disorders: Successful translation across species. Neurobiol Learn Mem 2020; 176:107327. [PMID: 33075480 PMCID: PMC7567669 DOI: 10.1016/j.nlm.2020.107327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2020] [Accepted: 10/13/2020] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
The selective norepinephrine (NE) α2A-adrenoceptor (α2A-AR) agonist, guanfacine (Intuniv™), is FDA-approved for treating Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) based on research in animals, a translational success story. Guanfacine is also widely used off-label in additional mental disorders that involve impaired functioning of the prefrontal cortex (PFC), including stress-related disorders such as substance abuse, schizotypic cognitive deficits, and traumatic brain injury. The PFC subserves high order cognitive and executive functions including working memory, abstract reasoning, insight and judgment, and top-down control of attention, action and emotion. These abilities arise from PFC microcircuits with extensive recurrent excitation through NMDAR synapses. There is powerful modulation of these synapses, where cAMP-PKA opening of nearby potassium (K+) channels can rapidly and dynamically alter synaptic strength to coordinate arousal state with cognitive state, e.g. to take PFC "offline" during uncontrollable stress. A variety of evidence shows that guanfacine acts within the PFC via post-synaptic α2A-AR on dendritic spines to inhibit cAMP-PKA-K+ channel signaling, thus strengthening network connectivity, enhancing PFC neuronal firing, and improving PFC cognitive functions. Although guanfacine's beneficial effects are present in rodent, they are especially evident in primates, where the PFC greatly expands and differentiates. In addition to therapeutic actions in PFC, stress-related disorders may also benefit from additional α2-AR actions, such as weakening plasticity in the amygdala, reducing NE release, and anti-inflammatory actions by deactivating microglia. Altogether, these NE α2-AR actions optimize top-down control by PFC networks, which may explain guanfacine's benefits in a variety of mental disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy F T Arnsten
- Dept. Neuroscience, Yale Medical School, 333 Cedar St., New Haven, CT 06510, USA.
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Labouesse MA, Cola RB, Patriarchi T. GPCR-Based Dopamine Sensors-A Detailed Guide to Inform Sensor Choice for In vivo Imaging. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E8048. [PMID: 33126757 PMCID: PMC7672611 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21218048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2020] [Revised: 09/25/2020] [Accepted: 09/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Understanding how dopamine (DA) encodes behavior depends on technologies that can reliably monitor DA release in freely-behaving animals. Recently, red and green genetically encoded sensors for DA (dLight, GRAB-DA) were developed and now provide the ability to track release dynamics at a subsecond resolution, with submicromolar affinity and high molecular specificity. Combined with rapid developments in in vivo imaging, these sensors have the potential to transform the field of DA sensing and DA-based drug discovery. When implementing these tools in the laboratory, it is important to consider there is not a 'one-size-fits-all' sensor. Sensor properties, most importantly their affinity and dynamic range, must be carefully chosen to match local DA levels. Molecular specificity, sensor kinetics, spectral properties, brightness, sensor scaffold and pharmacology can further influence sensor choice depending on the experimental question. In this review, we use DA as an example; we briefly summarize old and new techniques to monitor DA release, including DA biosensors. We then outline a map of DA heterogeneity across the brain and provide a guide for optimal sensor choice and implementation based on local DA levels and other experimental parameters. Altogether this review should act as a tool to guide DA sensor choice for end-users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie A. Labouesse
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA;
- Division of Molecular Therapeutics, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Reto B. Cola
- Anatomy and Program in Neuroscience, University of Fribourg, 1700 Fribourg, Switzerland;
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Tommaso Patriarchi
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
- Neuroscience Center Zurich, University and ETH Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
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38
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Cocaine- and stress-primed reinstatement of drug-associated memories elicit differential behavioral and frontostriatal circuit activity patterns via recruitment of L-type Ca 2+ channels. Mol Psychiatry 2020; 25:2373-2391. [PMID: 31501511 PMCID: PMC7927165 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-019-0513-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2019] [Revised: 06/12/2019] [Accepted: 07/31/2019] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Cocaine-associated memories are critical drivers of relapse in cocaine-dependent individuals that can be evoked by exposure to cocaine or stress. Whether these environmental stimuli recruit similar molecular and circuit-level mechanisms to promote relapse remains largely unknown. Here, using cocaine- and stress-primed reinstatement of cocaine conditioned place preference to model drug-associated memories, we find that cocaine drives reinstatement by increasing the duration that mice spend in the previously cocaine-paired context whereas stress increases the number of entries into this context. Importantly, both forms of reinstatement require Cav1.2 L-type Ca2+ channels (LTCCs) in cells of the prelimbic cortex that project to the nucleus accumbens core (PrL→NAcC). Utilizing fiber photometry to measure circuit activity in vivo in conjunction with the LTCC blocker, isradipine, we find that LTCCs drive differential recruitment of the PrL→ NAcC pathway during cocaine- and stress-primed reinstatement. While cocaine selectively activates PrL→NAcC cells prior to entry into the cocaine-paired chamber, a measure that is predictive of duration in that chamber, stress increases persistent activity of this projection, which correlates with entries into the cocaine-paired chamber. Using projection-specific chemogenetic manipulations, we show that PrL→NAcC activity is required for both cocaine- and stress-primed reinstatement, and that activation of this projection in Cav1.2-deficient mice restores reinstatement. These data indicate that LTCCs are a common mediator of cocaine- and stress-primed reinstatement. However, they engage different patterns of behavior and PrL→NAcC projection activity depending on the environmental stimuli. These findings establish a framework to further study how different environmental experiences can drive relapse, and supports further exploration of isradipine, an FDA-approved LTCC blocker, as a potential therapeutic for the prevention of relapse in cocaine-dependent individuals.
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Devoto P, Sagheddu C, Santoni M, Flore G, Saba P, Pistis M, Gessa GL. Noradrenergic Source of Dopamine Assessed by Microdialysis in the Medial Prefrontal Cortex. Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:588160. [PMID: 33071798 PMCID: PMC7538903 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.588160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2020] [Accepted: 09/07/2020] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Previous results indicate that dopamine (DA) release in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) is modified by α2 adrenoceptor- but not D2 DA receptor- agonists and antagonists, suggesting that DA measured by microdialysis in the mPFC originates from noradrenergic terminals. Accordingly, noradrenergic denervation was found to prevent α2-receptor-mediated rise and fall of extracellular DA induced by atipamezole and clonidine, respectively, in the mPFC. The present study was aimed to determine whether DA released by dopaminergic terminals in the mPFC is not detected by in vivo microdialysis because is readily taken up by norepinephrine transporter (NET). Accordingly, the D2-antagonist raclopride increased the electrical activity of DA neurons in the ventral tegmental area (VTA) and enhanced extracellular DOPAC but failed to modify DA in the mPFC. However, in rats whose NET was either inactivated by nisoxetine or eliminated by noradrenergic denervation, raclopride still elevated extracellular DOPAC and activated dopaminergic activity, but also increased DA. Conversely, the D2-receptor agonist quinpirole reduced DOPAC but failed to modify DA in the mPFC in control rats. However, in rats whose NET was eliminated by noradrenergic denervation or inhibited by locally perfused nisoxetine, quinpirole maintained its ability to reduce DOPAC but acquired that of reducing DA. Moreover, raclopride and quinpirole, when locally perfused into the mPFC of rats subjected to noradrenergic denervation, were able to increase and decrease, respectively, extracellular DA levels, while being ineffective in control rats. Transient inactivation of noradrenergic neurons by clonidine infusion into the locus coeruleus, a condition where NET is preserved, was found to reduce extracellular NE and DA in the mPFC, whereas noradrenergic denervation, a condition where NET is eliminated, almost totally depleted extracellular NE but increased DA. Both transient inactivation and denervation of noradrenergic neurons were found to reduce the number of spontaneously active DA neurons and their bursting activity in the VTA. The results indicate that DA released in the mPFC by dopaminergic terminals is not detected by microdialysis unless DA clearance from extracellular space is inactivated. They support the hypothesis that noradrenergic terminals are the main source of DA measured by microdialysis in the mPFC during physiologically relevant activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola Devoto
- Section of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy.,"Guy Everett" Laboratory, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Claudia Sagheddu
- Section of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Michele Santoni
- Section of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Giovanna Flore
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Pierluigi Saba
- Section of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Marco Pistis
- Section of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy.,Section of Cagliari, Neuroscience Institute, National Research Council of Italy (CNR), Cagliari, Italy
| | - Gian Luigi Gessa
- "Guy Everett" Laboratory, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy.,Section of Cagliari, Neuroscience Institute, National Research Council of Italy (CNR), Cagliari, Italy
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40
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Bollinger JL, Horchar MJ, Wohleb ES. Diazepam limits microglia-mediated neuronal remodeling in the prefrontal cortex and associated behavioral consequences following chronic unpredictable stress. Neuropsychopharmacology 2020; 45:1766-1776. [PMID: 32454511 PMCID: PMC7419496 DOI: 10.1038/s41386-020-0720-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2020] [Revised: 04/27/2020] [Accepted: 05/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Chronic stress induces neuronal atrophy and synaptic loss in the medial prefrontal cortex (PFC), and this leads to behavioral and cognitive impairments. Our recent findings indicate that microglia contribute to structural remodeling of neurons via increased colony-stimulating factor (CSF)-1 in the medial PFC. Other work shows that chronic stress induces aberrant neuronal activity in the medial PFC, and that neuronal hyperactivity increases CSF1 signaling and alters microglia function. Thus, the present studies were designed to examine the role of neuronal activity in stress-induced CSF1 signaling and microglia-mediated neuronal remodeling in the medial PFC. Additional analyses probed stress effects on the dorsal hippocampus (HPC), basolateral amygdala (BLA), and somatosensory cortex (SSCTX). Mice were exposed to chronic unpredictable stress (CUS) or handled intermittently as controls, and received daily injection of vehicle or diazepam (1 mg/kg). As anticipated, diazepam attenuated CUS-induced behavioral despair and cognitive impairments. Further studies showed that diazepam normalized Csf1 and C3 mRNA in the PFC, and prevented increases in Csf1r and Cd11b in frontal cortex microglia following CUS. Stress had no effect on neuroimmune gene expression in the HPC. Confocal imaging in Thy1-GFP(M) mice demonstrated that diazepam limited microglial engulfment of neuronal elements and blocked CUS-induced dendritic spine loss in the medial PFC. Altogether, these findings indicate that modulation of chronic stress-induced neuronal activity limits microglia-mediated neuronal remodeling in the medial PFC, and subsequent behavioral and cognitive consequences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin L Bollinger
- Department of Pharmacology & Systems Physiology, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Matthew J Horchar
- Department of Pharmacology & Systems Physiology, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Eric S Wohleb
- Department of Pharmacology & Systems Physiology, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA.
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Chronic Restraint Stress Affects Network Oscillations in the Anterior Cingulate Cortex in Mice. Neuroscience 2020; 437:172-183. [PMID: 32335214 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2020.04.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2019] [Revised: 04/14/2020] [Accepted: 04/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) is vulnerable to stress. Its dysfunction is observed in psychiatric disorders manifested as alterations in network oscillations. Mechanisms linking stress load to disturbed emotional-cognitive behaviors are of essential importance to further elucidate therapeutic strategies for psychiatric diseases. Here, we analyzed the effects of chronic restraint stress (CRS) load in juvenile mice on kainic acid (KA)-induced network oscillations in ACC slice preparations and on the forced swim test (FST). The immobility time (IT) was shortened at the beginning of the FST in CRS mice. Power spectral density (PSD) obtained from KA-induced oscillations in field potentials in the superficial layers of the ACC were altered in slices from the CRS mice. The PSD was decreased in CRS mice at the alpha (8-12 Hz), beta (13-30 Hz), low gamma (30-50 Hz), and high gamma (50-80 Hz) components. Noradrenaline increased the PSD of the theta (3-8 Hz) components in both the control and CRS groups, and also in alpha components only in the CRS group. Dopamine did not modulate the PSD of any frequency components in the control mice, whereas it enhanced the PSD of theta and alpha components in CRS mice. It was suggested that chronic stress load affects the dynamics of the network oscillations in the ACC with enhanced cathecolaminergic modulation.
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Moazen P, Torabi M, Azizi H, Fathollahi Y, Mirnajafi-Zadeh J, Semnanian S. The locus coeruleus noradrenergic system gates deficits in visual attention induced by chronic pain. Behav Brain Res 2020; 387:112600. [PMID: 32198106 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2020.112600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2020] [Revised: 02/13/2020] [Accepted: 03/06/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Despite years of research on pain comorbidity with affective disorders and cognitive deficits, it is still unclear how deficit in attention co-occurs with chronic pain. It is likely that altered neuroplasticity and or dysregulated neurotransmitters induced by chronic pain, at which pain and cognitive processing systems overlap, may have a negative effect on cognitive processing such as attention. One of the main common networks involved in attentional and pain processing is the noradrenergic system originating from the locus coeruleus (LC). We hypothesized that heightened noradrenaline release from LC induced by chronic pain could cause a deficit in visual attention. For this purpose, performance on the 5-choice serial reaction time test (5-CSRTT) was tested in animals with and without a chronic constriction injury and a selective depletion of noradrenaline in the LC. In addition, pain sensitivity was measured via mechanical allodynia and thermal hyperalgesia. We found that the increase in pain sensitivity following chronic pain correlates with a decline in executive functions as measured by 5-CSRTT. This was true in conditions of both low and high attentional demand. Interestingly, a selective depletion of noradrenaline in LC improved the attentional deficits caused by chronic pain. We argue that changes to the noradrenergic system originating in LC can improve deficits in visual attention induced by chronic pain. Deficit in attention is a common comorbidity among patients with chronic pain which adversely affects them in their family and work lives. Patients struggle with functional impairment due to pain, and deficite in attention adds to this dysfunction. Our findings identify the NE-LC system as a key mediator between chronic pain and the attentional deficits associated with this. This finding calls for further investigations concerning treatments related to the noradrenergic system to reduce the malicious effects of chronic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parisa Moazen
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mona Torabi
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hossein Azizi
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Yaghoub Fathollahi
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Javad Mirnajafi-Zadeh
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Saeed Semnanian
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran.
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Limanaqi F, Busceti CL, Biagioni F, Fornai F, Puglisi-Allegra S. Autophagy-Based Hypothesis on the Role of Brain Catecholamine Response During Stress. Front Psychiatry 2020; 11:569248. [PMID: 33093837 PMCID: PMC7527533 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2020.569248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2020] [Accepted: 08/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Stressful events, similar to abused drugs, significantly affect the homeostatic balance of the catecholamine brain systems while activating compensation mechanisms to restore balance. In detail, norepinephrine (NE)- and dopamine (DA)-containing neurons within the locus coeruleus (LC) and ventral tegmental area (VTA), are readily and similarly activated by psychostimulants and stressful events involving neural processes related to perception, reward, cognitive evaluation, appraisal, and stress-dependent hormonal factors. Brain catecholamine response to stress results in time-dependent regulatory processes involving mesocorticolimbic circuits and networks, where LC-NE neurons respond more readily than VTA-DA neurons. LC-NE projections are dominant in controlling the forebrain DA-targeted areas, such as the nucleus accumbens (NAc) and medial pre-frontal cortex (mPFC). Heavy and persistent coping demand could lead to sustained LC-NE and VTA-DA neuronal activity, that, when persisting chronically, is supposed to alter LC-VTA synaptic connections. Increasing evidence has been provided indicating a role of autophagy in modulating DA neurotransmission and synaptic plasticity. This alters behavior, and emotional/cognitive experience in response to drug abuse and occasionally, to psychological stress. Thus, relevant information to address the role of stress and autophagy can be drawn from psychostimulants research. In the present mini-review we discuss the role of autophagy in brain catecholamine response to stress and its dysregulation. The findings here discussed suggest a crucial role of regulated autophagy in the response and adaptation of LC-NE and VTA-DA systems to stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fiona Limanaqi
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies on Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | | | | | - Francesco Fornai
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies on Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.,IRCCS Neuromed, Pozzilli, Italy
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Ketchesin KD, Becker-Krail D, McClung CA. Mood-related central and peripheral clocks. Eur J Neurosci 2020; 51:326-345. [PMID: 30402924 PMCID: PMC6502705 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.14253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2018] [Revised: 10/19/2018] [Accepted: 10/31/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Mood disorders, including major depression, bipolar disorder, and seasonal affective disorder, are debilitating disorders that affect a significant portion of the global population. Individuals suffering from mood disorders often show significant disturbances in circadian rhythms and sleep. Moreover, environmental disruptions to circadian rhythms can precipitate or exacerbate mood symptoms in vulnerable individuals. Circadian clocks exist throughout the central nervous system and periphery, where they regulate a wide variety of physiological processes implicated in mood regulation. These processes include monoaminergic and glutamatergic transmission, hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis function, metabolism, and immune function. While there seems to be a clear link between circadian rhythm disruption and mood regulation, the mechanisms that underlie this association remain unclear. This review will touch on the interactions between the circadian system and each of these processes and discuss their potential role in the development of mood disorders. While clinical studies are presented, much of the review will focus on studies in animal models, which are attempting to elucidate the molecular and cellular mechanisms in which circadian genes regulate mood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyle D Ketchesin
- Department of Psychiatry, Center for Neuroscience, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Darius Becker-Krail
- Department of Psychiatry, Center for Neuroscience, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Colleen A McClung
- Department of Psychiatry, Center for Neuroscience, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
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45
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Stress-induced plasticity and functioning of ventral tegmental dopamine neurons. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2020; 108:48-77. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2019.10.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 97] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2019] [Revised: 09/26/2019] [Accepted: 10/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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Anderson GS, Di Nota PM, Metz GAS, Andersen JP. The Impact of Acute Stress Physiology on Skilled Motor Performance: Implications for Policing. Front Psychol 2019; 10:2501. [PMID: 31781001 PMCID: PMC6856650 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2019.02501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2019] [Accepted: 10/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Investigations of police performance during acutely stressful situations have primarily focused on higher-order cognitive processes like attention, affect or emotion and decision-making, and the behavioral outcomes of these processes, such as errors in lethal force. However, behavioral outcomes in policing must be understood as a combination of both higher-order processes and the physical execution of motor skills. What is missing from extant police literature is an understanding of how physiological responses to acute stress contribute to observed decrements in skilled motor performance at the neuromuscular level. The purpose of the current paper is to fill this knowledge gap in the following ways: (1) review scientific evidence for the physiological (i.e., autonomic, endocrine, and musculoskeletal) responses to acutely stressful exposures and their influence on skilled motor performance in both human and animal models, (2) review applied evidence on occupationally relevant stress physiology and observed motor decrements in performance among police, and (3) discuss the implications of stress physiology for police training and identify future directions for applied researchers. Evidence is compelling that skill decay is inevitable under high levels of acute stress; however, robust evidence-informed training practices can help mitigate this decay and contribute to officer safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- G S Anderson
- Office of Applied Research and Graduate Studies, Justice Institute of British Columbia, New Westminster, BC, Canada
| | - P M Di Nota
- Office of Applied Research and Graduate Studies, Justice Institute of British Columbia, New Westminster, BC, Canada.,Department of Psychology, University of Toronto Mississauga, Mississauga, ON, Canada
| | - G A S Metz
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, AB, Canada
| | - J P Andersen
- Department of Psychology, University of Toronto Mississauga, Mississauga, ON, Canada
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48
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DeLaRosa BL, Spence JS, Didehbani N, Tillman GD, Motes MA, Bass C, Kraut MA, Hart J. Neurophysiology of threat processing bias in combat-related post-traumatic stress disorder. Hum Brain Mapp 2019; 41:218-229. [PMID: 31584243 PMCID: PMC7268056 DOI: 10.1002/hbm.24800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2019] [Revised: 08/18/2019] [Accepted: 09/08/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a debilitating condition that may develop after experiencing a traumatic event. Combat exposure increases an individual's chance of developing PTSD, making veterans especially susceptible to the disorder. PTSD is characterized by dysregulated emotional networks, memory deficits, and a hyperattentive response to perceived threatening stimuli. Recently, there have been a number of imaging studies that show structural and functional abnormalities associated with PTSD; however, there have been few studies utilizing electroencephalography (EEG). The goal of this study was to characterize **EEG brain dynamics in individuals with PTSD, in order to better understand the neurophysiological underpinnings of some of the salient features of PTSD, such as threat‐processing bias. Veterans of Operation Enduring Freedom/Iraqi Freedom completed an implicit visual threat semantic memory recognition task with stimuli that varied on both category (animals, items, nature, and people) and feature (threatening and nonthreatening) membership, including trauma‐related stimuli. Combat veterans with PTSD had slower reaction times for the threatening stimuli relative to the combat veterans without PTSD (VETC). There were trauma‐specific effects in frontal regions, with theta band EEG power reductions for the threatening combat scenes in the PTSD patients compared to the VETC group. Additionally, a moderate negative correlation was observed between trauma‐specific frontal theta power and hyperarousal symptoms as measured by clinically administered PTSD scale. These findings complement and extend current models of cortico‐limbic dysfunction in PTSD. The moderate negative correlation between frontal theta power and hyperarousal endorsements suggests the utility of these measures as therapeutic markers of symptomatology in PTSD patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bambi L DeLaRosa
- School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences, The University of Texas at Dallas, Dallas, Texas
| | - Jeffrey S Spence
- School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences, The University of Texas at Dallas, Dallas, Texas
| | - Nyaz Didehbani
- School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences, The University of Texas at Dallas, Dallas, Texas
| | - Gail D Tillman
- School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences, The University of Texas at Dallas, Dallas, Texas
| | - Michael A Motes
- School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences, The University of Texas at Dallas, Dallas, Texas
| | - Christina Bass
- School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences, The University of Texas at Dallas, Dallas, Texas
| | - Michael A Kraut
- School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences, The University of Texas at Dallas, Dallas, Texas.,Department of Radiology, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - John Hart
- School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences, The University of Texas at Dallas, Dallas, Texas.,Department of Neurology and Neurotherapeutics, The University of Texas Southwestern, Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
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Abdurakhmanova S, Semenova S, Piepponen TP, Panula P. Abnormal behavior, striatal dopamine turnover and opioid peptide gene expression in histamine‐deficient mice. GENES BRAIN AND BEHAVIOR 2019; 18:e12595. [DOI: 10.1111/gbb.12595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2019] [Revised: 06/11/2019] [Accepted: 06/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - T. Petteri Piepponen
- Division of Pharmacology and PharmacotherapyUniversity of Helsinki Helsinki Finland
| | - Pertti Panula
- Department of AnatomyUniversity of Helsinki Helsinki Finland
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Datta D, Arnsten AFT. Loss of Prefrontal Cortical Higher Cognition with Uncontrollable Stress: Molecular Mechanisms, Changes with Age, and Relevance to Treatment. Brain Sci 2019; 9:brainsci9050113. [PMID: 31108855 PMCID: PMC6562841 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci9050113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2019] [Revised: 05/13/2019] [Accepted: 05/13/2019] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
The newly evolved prefrontal cortex (PFC) generates goals for "top-down" control of behavior, thought, and emotion. However, these circuits are especially vulnerable to uncontrollable stress, with powerful, intracellular mechanisms that rapidly take the PFC "off-line." High levels of norepinephrine and dopamine released during stress engage α1-AR and D1R, which activate feedforward calcium-cAMP signaling pathways that open nearby potassium channels to weaken connectivity and reduce PFC cell firing. Sustained weakening with chronic stress leads to atrophy of dendrites and spines. Understanding these signaling events helps to explain the increased susceptibility of the PFC to stress pathology during adolescence, when dopamine expression is increased in the PFC, and with advanced age, when the molecular "brakes" on stress signaling are diminished by loss of phosphodiesterases. These mechanisms have also led to pharmacological treatments for stress-related disorders, including guanfacine treatment of childhood trauma, and prazosin treatment of veterans and civilians with post-traumatic stress disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dibyadeep Datta
- Department Neuroscience, Yale Medical School, New Haven, CT 06510, USA.
| | - Amy F T Arnsten
- Department Neuroscience, Yale Medical School, New Haven, CT 06510, USA.
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