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Palombo P, Maeda R, Riberti Zaniboni C, Antonagi Engi S, Yokoyama T, Bonetti Bertagna N, Anesio A, Cristina Bianchi P, Righi T, Emily Boaventura Tavares G, Souccar C, da Silva FBR, Cardoso Cruz F. Unlocking the role of dorsal hippocampal α4β2 nicotinic acetylcholine receptors in Ethanol-Induced conditioned place preference in mice. Neurosci Lett 2024; 824:137666. [PMID: 38331019 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2024.137666] [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: 11/13/2023] [Revised: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024]
Abstract
Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) presents a significant and challenging public health concern, marked by a dearth of effective pharmacological treatments. Understanding the neurobiological underpinnings of AUD is of paramount importance for the development of efficacious interventions. The process of addiction entails the acquisition of associative behaviors, prominently engaging the dorsal region of the hippocampus for encoding these associative memories. Nicotinic receptor systems have been implicated in mediating the rewarding effects of ethanol, as well as memory and learning processes. In our current investigation, we delved into the role of α4β2 nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) within the dorsal hippocampus in the context of ethanol-induced conditioned place preference (CPP), a robust model for scrutinizing the rewarding properties and drug-associated behaviors. To establish CPP, ethanol (2 g/kg) was administered intraperitoneally during a 8-day conditioning phase. Fos immunohistochemistry was employed to assess the involvement of discrete subregions within the dorsal hippocampus in ethanol-induced CPP. Additionally, we probed the influence of α4β2 nAChRs on CPP via microinjections of a selective nAChR antagonist, dihydro-β-erythroidine (DHBE, at dosages of 6, 12, and 18 µg/0.5 µL per hemisphere) within the hippocampus. Our results unveiled that ethanol-induced CPP was associated with an increase Fos -positive cells in various subregions of the dorsal hippocampus, including CA1, CA2, CA3, and the dentate gyrus. Intrahippocampal administration of DHBE (at doses of 6 and 18 µg/0.50 µL per hemisphere) effectively blocked ethanol-induced CPP, while leaving locomotor activity unaffected. These findings underscore the critical involvement of the dorsal hippocampus and α4β2 nAChRs in the acquisition of ethanol-associated learning and reward.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola Palombo
- Department of Pharmacology, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.
| | - Roberta Maeda
- Department of Pharmacology, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Caroline Riberti Zaniboni
- Department of Pharmacology, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Sheila Antonagi Engi
- Department of Pharmacology, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Thais Yokoyama
- Department of Pharmacology, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Natalia Bonetti Bertagna
- Department of Pharmacology, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Augusto Anesio
- Department of Pharmacology, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Paula Cristina Bianchi
- Department of Pharmacology, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Thamires Righi
- Department of Pharmacology, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Caden Souccar
- Department of Pharmacology, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Fabio Cardoso Cruz
- Department of Pharmacology, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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Ma ZG, Jiang N, Huang YB, Ma XK, Brek Eaton J, Gao M, Chang YC, Lukas RJ, Whiteaker P, Neisewander J, Wu J. Cocaine potently blocks neuronal α 3β 4 nicotinic acetylcholine receptors in SH-SY5Y cells. Acta Pharmacol Sin 2020; 41:163-172. [PMID: 31399700 PMCID: PMC7471406 DOI: 10.1038/s41401-019-0276-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2019] [Accepted: 06/23/2019] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Cocaine is one of the most abused illicit drugs worldwide. It is well known that the dopamine (DA) transporter is its major target; but cocaine also acts on other targets including nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs). In this study, we investigated the effects of cocaine on a special subtype of neuronal nAChR, α3β4-nAChR expressed in native SH-SY5Y cells. α3β4-nAChR-mediated currents were recorded using whole-cell recordings. Drugs were applied using a computer-controlled U-tube drug perfusion system. We showed that bath application of nicotine induced inward currents in a concentration-dependent manner with an EC50 value of 20 µM. Pre-treatment with cocaine concentration-dependently inhibited nicotine-induced current with an IC50 of 1.5 μM. Kinetic analysis showed that cocaine accelerated α3β4-nAChR desensitization, which caused a reduction of the amplitude of nicotine-induced currents. Co-application of nicotine and cocaine (1.5 μM) depressed the maximum response on the nicotine concentration-response curve without changing the EC50 value, suggesting a non-competitive mechanism. The cocaine-induced inhibition of nicotine response exhibited both voltage- and use-dependence, suggesting an open-channel blocking mechanism. Furthermore, intracellular application of GDP-βS (via recording electrode) did not affect cocaine-induced inhibition, suggesting that cocaine did not alter receptor internalization. Moreover, intracellular application of cocaine (30 µM) failed to alter the nicotine response. Finally, cocaine (1.5 μM) was unable to inhibit the nicotine-induced inward current in heterologous expressed α6/α3β2β3-nAChRs and α4β2-nAChRs expressed in human SH-EP1 cells. Collectively, our results suggest that cocaine is a potent blocker for native α3β4-nAChRs expressed in SH-SY5Y cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ze-Gang Ma
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Brain Science and Disorders, Medical College of Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, China
- Division of Neurobiology, Barrow Neurological Institute, St. Joseph's Hospital and Medical Center, Phoenix, AZ, 85013, USA
| | - Nan Jiang
- Division of Neurobiology, Barrow Neurological Institute, St. Joseph's Hospital and Medical Center, Phoenix, AZ, 85013, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266003, China
| | - Yuan-Bing Huang
- Department of Neurology, Yunfu People's Hospital, Yunfu, 527300, China
| | - Xiao-Kuang Ma
- Division of Neurobiology, Barrow Neurological Institute, St. Joseph's Hospital and Medical Center, Phoenix, AZ, 85013, USA
- Department of Physiology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, 515004, China
| | - Jason Brek Eaton
- Division of Neurobiology, Barrow Neurological Institute, St. Joseph's Hospital and Medical Center, Phoenix, AZ, 85013, USA
| | - Ming Gao
- Division of Neurobiology, Barrow Neurological Institute, St. Joseph's Hospital and Medical Center, Phoenix, AZ, 85013, USA
| | - Yong-Chang Chang
- Division of Neurobiology, Barrow Neurological Institute, St. Joseph's Hospital and Medical Center, Phoenix, AZ, 85013, USA
| | - Ronald J Lukas
- Division of Neurobiology, Barrow Neurological Institute, St. Joseph's Hospital and Medical Center, Phoenix, AZ, 85013, USA
| | - Paul Whiteaker
- Division of Neurobiology, Barrow Neurological Institute, St. Joseph's Hospital and Medical Center, Phoenix, AZ, 85013, USA
| | - Janet Neisewander
- School of Life Sciences, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, 85287-4501, USA
| | - Jie Wu
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Brain Science and Disorders, Medical College of Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266071, China.
- Division of Neurobiology, Barrow Neurological Institute, St. Joseph's Hospital and Medical Center, Phoenix, AZ, 85013, USA.
- Department of Neurology, Yunfu People's Hospital, Yunfu, 527300, China.
- Department of Physiology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, 515004, China.
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Zhou YQ, Zhang LY, Yu ZP, Zhang XQ, Shi J, Shen HW. Tropisetron Facilitates Footshock Suppression of Compulsive Cocaine Seeking. Int J Neuropsychopharmacol 2019; 22:574-584. [PMID: 31125405 PMCID: PMC6754734 DOI: 10.1093/ijnp/pyz023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2019] [Revised: 04/25/2019] [Accepted: 05/23/2019] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The hallmark characteristics of the murine model of drug addiction include the escalation of cocaine consumption and compulsive punishment-resistant drug seeking. In this study, we evaluated the motivation for drug seeking in cocaine self-administering rats exposed to an escalated dosing regimen that endeavored to mimic the characteristic of escalating drug intake in human addicts. Tropisetron is a 5-HT3 receptor antagonist and α7-nicotinic receptor partial agonist. Utilizing rats trained on the escalated-dosing regimen, we examined the effects of tropisetron on control over compulsive drug-seeking behavior that was defined as footshock-resistant lever pressing. METHODS Rats were trained to self-administer cocaine with incremental-infusion doses (from 0.6 to 2.4 mg/kg/infusion) across training sessions (3 h/session) or with a long-access paradigm (i.e., 0.6 mg/kg/infusion, 6 h/d training session). The drug-seeking motivations of 2 groups were estimated by the patterns of drug intake and progressive-ratio schedule. The compulsivity for drug seeking of the group with an escalated dose was further evaluated using the footshock-associated seeking-taking chain task. RESULTS The rats trained on the dose-escalated protocol achieved the same levels of motivated drug seeking as those subjected to a long-access paradigm, as indicated by cocaine intake per training session and breakpoints on a progressive ratio schedule. Tropisetron attenuated compulsive behavior of rats when pressing of the seeking lever potentially led to footshock. Intriguingly, tropisetron did not change the motivation to seek cocaine when footshock was absent. Tropisetron had no effect on locomotor activities or saccharin self-administration. CONCLUSIONS These results demonstrate that tropisetron restored control over compulsive cocaine seeking, and they indicate that 5-HT3/α7-nicotinic receptors may be potential therapeutic targets for relieving compulsive drug seeking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue-Qing Zhou
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Lan-Yuan Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Zhi-Peng Yu
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School of Ningbo University, WangChanglai, Ningbo, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xiao-Qin Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School of Ningbo University, WangChanglai, Ningbo, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jie Shi
- National Institute on Drug Dependence, Peking University, Beijing, China,Correspondence: H. W. Shen, PhD, Department of Pharmacology, 818 Fenghua Rd., WangChanglai A403, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315211, China (); and J. Shi, PhD, National Institute on Drug Dependence, Peking University, Beijing, China ()
| | - Hao-Wei Shen
- Department of Pharmacology, Medical School of Ningbo University, WangChanglai, Ningbo, Zhejiang, China,Correspondence: H. W. Shen, PhD, Department of Pharmacology, 818 Fenghua Rd., WangChanglai A403, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315211, China (); and J. Shi, PhD, National Institute on Drug Dependence, Peking University, Beijing, China ()
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Li S, Guan S, Wang Y, Cheng L, Yang Q, Tian Z, Zhao M, Wang X, Feng B. Nicotine inhibits rapamycin-induced pain through activating mTORC1/S6K/IRS-1-related feedback inhibition loop. Brain Res Bull 2019; 149:75-85. [PMID: 31005665 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2019.04.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2019] [Revised: 04/11/2019] [Accepted: 04/16/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) inhibitors increase the incidence of pain in patients, and this finding has been replicated in animal models. However, reports on possible analgesics for this condition are scant. Accumulating evidence finds that nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) are involved in mediating pain. However, whether nicotine, a full agonist of nAChRs, alleviates mTORC1 inhibition-induced pain and its underlying mechanisms remain unknown. In this study, pain was induced in naïve male C57BL/6J mice by intraperitoneally injecting rapamycin acutely or repeatedly. Subsequently, pain thresholds, including mechanical and thermal pain, were measured. The involving signaling pathway was tested using western blot analysis and immunofluorescent assay. Changes in neuronal excitability caused by different treatments were also analyzed using whole-cell recording. Microinjection into the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) was used to test the role of nAChRs containing the α4β2 or α7 subtype in this brain region in pain modulation. Our results showed that nicotine significantly reduced hyperalgesia in mice that received acute or repeated rapamycin injections, and reversed the effects of rapamycin on the phosphorylation of S6K, 4E-BP1, insulin receptor substrate-1 (IRS-1) at Ser636/639, AKT at Ser473, and ERK at Thr202/Tyr204. Whole-cell recording results showed that nicotine reduced the firing rates of pyramidal neurons in the ACC, and a pharmacological blockade of nAChRs containing the α4β2 or α7 subtype in ACC inhibited the antinociceptive effects of nicotine in mice with rapamycin-induced pain. Our findings indicate that analgesics targeting nAChRs can be developed to help patients with rapamycin-induced pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuo Li
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China; State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing Key Laboratory of Neuropsychopharmacology, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, 27th Taiping Road, Beijing, 100850, China
| | - Shaoyu Guan
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Yurong Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Military Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Shaanxi International Joint Research Center for Oral Diseases, Department of Pharmacy, School of Stomatology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China; College of Pharmacy, Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xianyang, China
| | - Lifei Cheng
- State Key Laboratory of Military Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Shaanxi International Joint Research Center for Oral Diseases, Department of Pharmacy, School of Stomatology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Qi Yang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Zhen Tian
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Minggao Zhao
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Xiaojuan Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Military Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Shaanxi International Joint Research Center for Oral Diseases, Department of Pharmacy, School of Stomatology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Bin Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Military Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Shaanxi International Joint Research Center for Oral Diseases, Department of Pharmacy, School of Stomatology, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China.
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Levin ED, Rezvani AH, Wells C, Slade S, Yenugonda VM, Liu Y, Brown ML, Xiao Y, Kellar KJ. α4β2 Nicotinic receptor desensitizing compounds can decrease self-administration of cocaine and methamphetamine in rats. Eur J Pharmacol 2019; 845:1-7. [PMID: 30529197 PMCID: PMC6353686 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2018.12.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2018] [Revised: 12/03/2018] [Accepted: 12/05/2018] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Sazetidine-A [6-(5(((S)-azetidine-2-yl)methoxy)pyridine-3-yl)hex-5-yn-1-ol] is a selective α4β2 nicotinic receptor desensitizing agent and partial agonist. Sazetidine-A has been shown in our previous studies to significantly reduce nicotine and alcohol self-administration in rats. The question arises whether sazetidine-A would reduce self-administration of other addictive drugs as well. Nicotinic receptors on the dopaminergic neurons in the ventral tegmental area play an important role in controlling the activity of these neurons and release of dopamine in the nucleus accumbens, which is critical mechanism for reinforcing value of drugs of abuse. Previously, we showed that the nonspecific nicotinic antagonist mecamylamine significantly reduces cocaine self-administration in rats. In this study, we acutely administered systemically sazetidine-A and two other selective α4β2 nicotinic receptor-desensitizing agents, VMY-2-95 and YL-2-203, to young adult female Sprague-Dawley rats and determined their effects on IV self-administration of cocaine and methamphetamine. Cocaine self-administration was significantly reduced by 0.3 mg/kg of sazetidine-A. In another set of rats, sazetidine-A (3 mg/kg) significantly reduced methamphetamine self-administration. VMY-2-95 significantly reduced both cocaine and methamphetamine self-administration with threshold effective doses of 3 and 0.3 mg/kg, respectively. In contrast, YL-2-203 did not significantly reduce cocaine self-administration at the same dose range and actually significantly increased cocaine self-administration at the 1 mg/kg dose. YL-2-203 (3 mg/kg) did significantly decrease methamphetamine self-administration. Sazetidine-A and VMY-2-95 are promising candidates to develop as new treatments to help addicts successfully overcome a variety of addictions including tobacco, alcohol as well as the stimulant drugs cocaine and methamphetamine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edward D Levin
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA.
| | - Amir H Rezvani
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Corinne Wells
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Susan Slade
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Venkata M Yenugonda
- Department of Translational Neurosciences and Neurotherapeutics, John Wayne Cancer Institute, 2200 Santa Monica Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90404, USA
| | - Yong Liu
- Drug Discovery Program and Georgetown University School of Medicine, Washington DC 20057, USA
| | - Milton L Brown
- Drug Discovery Program and Georgetown University School of Medicine, Washington DC 20057, USA
| | - Yingxian Xiao
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Georgetown University School of Medicine, Washington DC 20057, USA
| | - Kenneth J Kellar
- Drug Discovery Program and Georgetown University School of Medicine, Washington DC 20057, USA
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Chen D, Gao F, Ma X, Eaton JB, Huang Y, Gao M, Chang Y, Ma Z, Der-Ghazarian T, Neisewander J, Whiteaker P, Wu J, Su Q. Cocaine Directly Inhibits α6-Containing Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptors in Human SH-EP1 Cells and Mouse VTA DA Neurons. Front Pharmacol 2019; 10:72. [PMID: 30837868 PMCID: PMC6383119 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2019.00072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2018] [Accepted: 01/21/2019] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Alpha6-containing nicotinic acetylcholine receptors are primarily found in neurons of the midbrain dopaminergic (DA) system, suggesting these receptors are potentially involved in drug reward and dependence. Here, we report a novel effect that cocaine directly inhibits α6N/α3Cβ2β3-nAChR (α6*-nAChRs) function. Human α6*-nAChRs were heterologously expressed within cells of the SH-EP1 cell line for functional characterization. Mechanically dissociated DA neurons from mouse ventral tegmental area (VTA) were used as a model of presynaptic α6*-nAChR activation since this method preserves terminal boutons. Patch-clamp recordings in whole-cell configuration were used to measure α6*-nAChR function as well as evaluate the effects of cocaine. In SH-EP1 cells containing heterologously expressed human α6*-nAChRs, cocaine inhibits nicotine-induced inward currents in a concentration-dependent manner with an IC50 value of 30 μM. Interestingly, in the presence of 30 μM cocaine, the maximal current response of the nicotine concentration-response curve is reduced without changing nicotine's EC50 value, suggesting a noncompetitive mechanism. Furthermore, analysis of whole-cell current kinetics demonstrated that cocaine slows nAChR channel activation but accelerates whole-cell current decay time. Our findings demonstrate that cocaine-induced inhibition occurs solely with bath application, but not during intracellular administration, and this inhibition is not use-dependent. Additionally, in Xenopus oocytes, cocaine inhibits both α6N/α3Cβ2β3-nAChRs and α6M211L/α3ICβ2β3-nCAhRs similarly, suggesting that cocaine may not act on the α3 transmembrane domain of chimeric α6N/α3Cβ2β3-nAChR. In mechanically isolated VTA DA neurons, cocaine abolishes α6*-nAChR-mediated enhancement of spontaneous inhibitory postsynaptic currents (sIPSCs). Collectively, these studies provide the first evidence that cocaine directly inhibits the function of both heterologously and naturally expressed α6*-nAChRs. These findings suggest that α6*-nAChRs may provide a novel pharmacological target mediating the effects of cocaine and may underlie a novel mechanism of cocaine reward and dependence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dejie Chen
- Department of Neurology, Yunfu People’s Hospital, Yunfu, China
| | - Fenfei Gao
- Department of Neurology, Yunfu People’s Hospital, Yunfu, China
| | - Xiaokuang Ma
- Division of Neurobiology, Barrow Neurological Institute, St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center, Phoenix, AZ, United States
- Department of Pharmacology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, China
| | - Jason Brek Eaton
- Division of Neurobiology, Barrow Neurological Institute, St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center, Phoenix, AZ, United States
| | - Yuanbing Huang
- Department of Neurology, Yunfu People’s Hospital, Yunfu, China
- Division of Neurobiology, Barrow Neurological Institute, St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center, Phoenix, AZ, United States
| | - Ming Gao
- Division of Neurobiology, Barrow Neurological Institute, St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center, Phoenix, AZ, United States
| | - Yongchang Chang
- Division of Neurobiology, Barrow Neurological Institute, St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center, Phoenix, AZ, United States
| | - Zegang Ma
- Department of Physiology, Qingdao University of Medical College, Qingdao, China
| | | | - Janet Neisewander
- School of Life Sciences, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, United States
| | - Paul Whiteaker
- Division of Neurobiology, Barrow Neurological Institute, St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center, Phoenix, AZ, United States
| | - Jie Wu
- Department of Neurology, Yunfu People’s Hospital, Yunfu, China
- Division of Neurobiology, Barrow Neurological Institute, St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center, Phoenix, AZ, United States
- Department of Pharmacology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, China
- *Correspondence: Jie Wu, ;
| | - Quanxi Su
- Department of Neurology, Yunfu People’s Hospital, Yunfu, China
- Quanxi Su,
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7
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Jareczek FJ, White SR, Hammond DL. Plasticity in Brainstem Mechanisms of Pain Modulation by Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptors in the Rat. eNeuro 2017; 4:ENEURO.0364-16.2017. [PMID: 28197544 PMCID: PMC5286660 DOI: 10.1523/eneuro.0364-16.2017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2016] [Revised: 01/10/2017] [Accepted: 01/12/2017] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Individuals with chronic pain may be driven to smoke more because the analgesic efficacy of nicotine diminishes. To determine whether persistent pain diminishes the actions of a nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) agonist in pain modulatory pathways, we examined the effects of epibatidine in the rostral ventromedial medulla (RVM) of rats with and without inflammatory injury induced by intraplantar injection of complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA). In uninjured rats, epibatidine produced a dose-dependent antinociception that was completely blocked by dihydro-β-erythroidine (DHβE; α4β2 antagonist) and partially blocked by methyllycaconitine (MLA; α7 antagonist). Epibatidine reversed heat hyperalgesia when microinjected in the RVM 4 h, 4 d, or 2 weeks after CFA treatment. Although DHβE completely blocked epibatidine's antihyperalgesic effect at 4 h, at 2 weeks it elicited only partial antagonism. Methyllycaconitine was ineffective at both time points. Epibatidine's antinociceptive efficacy in the uninjured hind paw progressively declined, and it was without effect 2 weeks after CFA. Moreover, as early as 4 h after CFA, the antinociceptive effect of epibatidine was no longer antagonized by DHβE. Neither antagonist alone altered paw withdrawal latency in uninjured or CFA-treated rats, suggesting that neither α4β2 nor α7 nAChRs are tonically active in the RVM. The Bmax and Kd of α4β2 nAChRs in the RVM were unchanged after CFA treatment. These observations provide the first evidence of pharmacological plasticity of the actions of α4β2 nAChR agonists in a critical brainstem pain modulatory pathway and may in part explain why people with chronic pain smoke more than the general population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francis J. Jareczek
- Medical Scientist Training Program, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242
- Interdisciplinary Graduate Program in Neuroscience, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242
| | | | - Donna L. Hammond
- Interdisciplinary Graduate Program in Neuroscience, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242
- Department of Anesthesia, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242
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Christensen MH, Kohlmeier KA. Age-related changes in functional postsynaptic nicotinic acetylcholine receptor subunits in neurons of the laterodorsal tegmental nucleus, a nucleus important in drug addiction. Addict Biol 2016; 21:267-81. [PMID: 25363563 DOI: 10.1111/adb.12194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The earlier an individual initiates cigarette smoking, the higher the likelihood of development of dependency to nicotine, the addictive ingredient in cigarettes. One possible mechanism underlying this higher addiction liability is an ontogenetically differential cellular response induced by nicotine in neurons mediating the reinforcing or euphoric effects of this drug, which could arise from age-related differences in the composition of nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) subunits. In the current study, we examined whether the subunit composition of nAChRs differed between neurons within the laterodorsal tegmentum (LDT), a nucleus importantly involved in drug addiction associated behaviours, across two periods of ontogeny in which nicotine-mediated excitatory responses were shown to depend on age. To this end, whole-cell patch-clamp recordings in mouse brain slices from identified LDT neurons, in combination with nAChR subunit-specific receptor antagonists, were conducted. Comparison of the contribution of different nAChR subunits to acetylcholine (ACh)-induced inward currents indicated that the contributions of the β2 and/or β4 and α7 nAChR subunits alter across age. Taken together, we conclude that across a limited ontogenetic period, there is plasticity in the subunit composition of nAChRs in LDT neurons. In addition, our data indicate, for the first time, functional presence of α6 nAChR subunits in LDT neurons within the age ranges studied. Changes in subunit composition of nAChRs across ontogeny could contribute to the age-related differential excitability induced by nicotine. Differences in the subunit composition of nAChRs within the LDT would be expected to contribute to ontogenetic-dependent outflow from the LDT to target regions, which include reward-related circuitry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark H. Christensen
- Department of Drug design and Pharmacology; Faculty of Health Sciences; University of Copenhagen; Denmark
| | - Kristi A. Kohlmeier
- Department of Drug design and Pharmacology; Faculty of Health Sciences; University of Copenhagen; Denmark
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9
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Tribute to: Self-administered nicotine activates the mesolimbic dopamine system through the ventral tegmental area [William Corrigall, Kathleen Coen and Laurel Adamson, Brain Res. 653 (1994) 278-284]. Brain Res 2016; 1645:61-4. [PMID: 26867702 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2015.12.064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2015] [Accepted: 12/19/2015] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
In this paper, Dr. Corrigall and collaborators described elegant experiments designed to elucidate the neurobiology of nicotine reinforcement. The nicotinic receptor antagonist dihydro-β-erythroidine (DHβE) was infused in the ventral tegmental area (VTA) or nucleus accumbens (NAC) of rats trained to self-administer nicotine intravenously. Additionally, DHβE was infused in the VTA of rats trained to self-administer food or cocaine, and nicotine self-administration was assessed in rats with lesions to the peduculopontine tegmental nucleus (PPT). A number of key themes emerged from this fundamental study that remain relevant today. The primary finding was that infusions of DHβE in the VTA, but not in the NAC, lowered nicotine self-administration, suggesting that nicotinic receptors in VTA are involved in the reinforcing action of nicotine. This conclusion has been confirmed by subsequent findings, and the nature of the nicotinic receptors has also been elucidated. The authors also reported that DHβE in the VTA had no effect on food or cocaine self-administration, and that lesions to the PPT did not alter nicotine self-administration. Since this initial investigation, the question of whether nicotinic receptors in the VTA are necessary for the reinforcing action of other stimuli, and by which mechanisms, has been extensively explored. Similarly, many groups have further investigated the role of mesopontine cholinergic nuclei in reinforcement. This paper not only contributed in important ways to our understanding of the neurochemical basis of nicotine reinforcement, but was also a key catalyst that gave rise to several research themes central to the neuropharmacology of substance abuse. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled SI:50th Anniversary Issue.
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Khroyan TV, Yasuda D, Toll L, Polgar WE, Zaveri NT. High affinity α3β4 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor ligands AT-1001 and AT-1012 attenuate cocaine-induced conditioned place preference and behavioral sensitization in mice. Biochem Pharmacol 2015; 97:531-541. [PMID: 26256075 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2015.08.083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2015] [Accepted: 08/04/2015] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Cholinergic signaling via the nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) in the mesolimbic circuitry is involved in the rewarding effects of abused drugs such as cocaine and opioids. In mouse studies, nonselective nAChR antagonist mecamylamine blocks cocaine-induced conditioned place preference (CPP) and behavioral sensitization. Among subtype-selective nAChR antagonists, the β2-selective antagonist dihydrobetaerythroidine and α7 antagonist methyllycaconitine (MLA), but not MLA alone prevent behavioral sensitization to cocaine. Since the role of the α3β4 nAChR subtype in the rewarding and behavioral effects of cocaine is unknown, the present study investigated the effect of two potent and selective α3β4 nAChR ligands, AT-1001 and AT-1012, on the acquisition of cocaine-induced CPP and behavioral sensitization in mice. At 5-30mg/kg, cocaine produced robust CPP, whereas behavioral sensitization of locomotor activity was only observed at the higher doses (20-30mg/kg). Pretreatment with AT-1001 (1-10mg/kg) or AT-1012 (3-10mg/kg) blocked CPP induced by 5mg/kg cocaine, but not by 30mg/kg cocaine. Lower doses of AT-1001 (0.3-1mg/kg) and AT-1012 (1-3mg/kg) did not affect the increase in locomotor activity induced by 5 or 30mg/kg cocaine. But AT-1001, at these doses, blocked locomotor sensitization induced by 30mg/kg cocaine. These results indicate that the α3β4 nAChR play a role in the rewarding and behavioral effects of cocaine, and that selective α3β4 nAChR ligands can attenuate cocaine-induced behavioral phenomena. Since the selective α3β4 nAChR functional antagonist AT-1001 has also been shown to block nicotine self-administration in rats, the present results suggest that α3β4 nAChRs may be a target for the treatment of cocaine addiction as well as for cocaine-nicotine comorbid addiction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taline V Khroyan
- SRI International, 333 Ravenswood Avenue, Menlo Park, CA, United States
| | - Dennis Yasuda
- Astraea Therapeutics, 320 Logue Avenue, Mountain View, CA, United States
| | - Lawrence Toll
- Torrey Pines Institute for Molecular Studies, Jupiter, FL, United States
| | - Willma E Polgar
- SRI International, 333 Ravenswood Avenue, Menlo Park, CA, United States
| | - Nurulain T Zaveri
- Astraea Therapeutics, 320 Logue Avenue, Mountain View, CA, United States.
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Zhao W, Smith JA, Mao G, Fornage M, Peyser PA, Sun YV, Turner ST, Kardia SLR. The cis and trans effects of the risk variants of coronary artery disease in the Chr9p21 region. BMC Med Genomics 2015; 8:21. [PMID: 25958224 PMCID: PMC4432789 DOI: 10.1186/s12920-015-0094-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2014] [Accepted: 04/24/2015] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have shown that single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the Chr9p21 region are associated with coronary artery disease (CAD). Most of the SNPs identified in this region are non-coding SNPs, suggesting that they may influence gene expression by cis or trans mechanisms to affect disease susceptibility. Since all cells from an individual have the same DNA sequence variations, levels of gene expression in immortalized cell lines can reflect the functional effects of DNA sequence variations that influence or regulate gene expression. The objective of this study is to evaluate the functional consequences of the risk variants in the Chr9p21 region on gene expression. METHODS We examined the association between the variants in the Chr9p21 region and the transcript-level mRNA expression of the adjacent genes (cis) as well as all other genes across the whole genome (trans) from transformed beta-lymphocytes in 801 non-Hispanic white participants from The Genetic Epidemiology Network of Arteriopathy (GENOA) study. RESULTS We found that the CAD risk variants in the Chr9p21 region were significantly associated with the mRNA expression of the ANRIL transcript ENST00000428597 (p = 8.58e-06). Importantly, a few distant transcripts were also found to be associated with the variants in this region, including the well-known CAD risk gene ABCA1 (p = 1.01e-05). Gene enrichment testing suggests that retinol metabolism, N-Glycan biosynthesis, and TGF signaling pathways may be involved. CONCLUSION These results suggest that the effect of risk variants in the Chr9p21 region on susceptibility to CAD is likely to be mediated through both cis and trans mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Zhao
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
| | - Jennifer A Smith
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
| | - Guangmei Mao
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
| | - Myriam Fornage
- Institute of Molecular Medicine and Human Genetics Center, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, TX, USA.
| | - Patricia A Peyser
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
| | - Yan V Sun
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA.
| | - Stephen T Turner
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA.
| | - Sharon L R Kardia
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
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12
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Gubner NR, Phillips TJ. Effects of nicotine on ethanol-induced locomotor sensitization: A model of neuroadaptation. Behav Brain Res 2015; 288:26-32. [PMID: 25857831 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2015.03.066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2015] [Revised: 03/24/2015] [Accepted: 03/30/2015] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Co-morbid use of nicotine-containing tobacco products and alcohol (ethanol) is prevalent in young adults initiating use and in alcohol dependent adults, suggesting that these drugs in combination may increase risk to develop dependence on one or both drugs. Neuroadaptations caused by repeated drug exposure are related to the development of drug dependence and vulnerability to relapse. Locomotor sensitization has been used as a behavioral measure used to detect changes in neural drug sensitivity that are thought to contribute to drug dependence and relapse. Locomotor sensitization was measured in the current studies to examine potential differences in the effects of nicotine and ethanol given alone and in combination. Baseline activity levels of DBA/2J mice were assessed on 2 days, then mice were treated for 10 days with saline, nicotine (1 or 2mg/kg of nicotine tartrate), ethanol (1 or 2g/kg), or nicotine plus ethanol and locomotor activity was assessed every third day. On the following day, all mice were challenged with ethanol to measure the expression of sensitization. Mice treated with both nicotine and ethanol exhibited greater stimulation than predicted from the combined independent effects of these drugs, consistent with our previously published results. The combined effects of nicotine and ethanol on locomotor sensitization were dependent on the dose of ethanol and whether testing was performed after the drugs were given together, or after challenge with ethanol alone. These results suggest that nicotine and ethanol in combination can have neuroadaptive effects that differ from the independent effects of these drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noah R Gubner
- Department of Behavioral Neuroscience, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Tamara J Phillips
- Department of Behavioral Neuroscience, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA; Portland Alcohol Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA; VA Portland Health Care System, Portland, OR, USA.
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Rahman S, Engleman EA, Bell RL. Nicotinic receptor modulation to treat alcohol and drug dependence. Front Neurosci 2015; 8:426. [PMID: 25642160 PMCID: PMC4295535 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2014.00426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2014] [Accepted: 12/04/2014] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Alcohol and drug dependence are serious public health problems worldwide. The prevalence of alcohol and drug dependence in the United States and other parts of the world is significant. Given the limitations in the efficacy of current pharmacotherapies to treat these disorders, research in developing alternative pharmacotherapies continues. Preclinical and clinical evidence thus far has indicated that brain nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) are important pharmacological targets for the development of medications to treat alcohol and drug dependence. The nAChRs are a super family of ligand gated ion channels, and are expressed throughout the brain with twelve neuronal nAChR subunits (α2–α10 and β2–β4) identified. Here, we review preclinical and clinical evidence involving a number of nAChR ligands that target different nAChR subtypes in alcohol and nicotine addiction. The important ligands include cytisine, lobeline, mecamylamine, varenicline, sazetidine A and others that target α4β2* nAChR subtypes as small molecule modulators of the brain nicotinic cholinergic system are also discussed. Taken together, both preclinical and clinical data exist that support nAChR–based ligands as promising therapeutic agents for the treatment of alcohol and drug dependence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shafiqur Rahman
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, South Dakota State University Brookings, SD, USA
| | - Eric A Engleman
- Department of Psychiatry, Institute of Psychiatric Research, Indiana University School of Medicine Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Richard L Bell
- Department of Psychiatry, Institute of Psychiatric Research, Indiana University School of Medicine Indianapolis, IN, USA
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14
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Rahman S, Engleman EA, Bell RL. Nicotinic receptor modulation to treat alcohol and drug dependence. Front Neurosci 2015. [DOI: https://doi.org/10.3389/fnins.2014.00426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
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15
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Sanjakdar SS, Maldoon PP, Marks MJ, Brunzell DH, Maskos U, McIntosh JM, Bowers MS, Damaj MI. Differential roles of α6β2* and α4β2* neuronal nicotinic receptors in nicotine- and cocaine-conditioned reward in mice. Neuropsychopharmacology 2015; 40:350-60. [PMID: 25035086 PMCID: PMC4443947 DOI: 10.1038/npp.2014.177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2013] [Revised: 06/28/2014] [Accepted: 07/01/2014] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Mesolimbic α6* nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) are thought to have an important role in nicotine behavioral effects. However, little is known about the role of the various α6*-nAChRs subtypes in the rewarding effects of nicotine. In this report, we investigated and compared the role of α6*-nAChRs subtypes and their neuro-anatomical locus in nicotine and cocaine reward-like effects in the conditioned place preference (CPP) paradigm, using pharmacological antagonism of α6β2* nAChRs and genetic deletion of the α6 or α4 subunits in mice. We found that α6 KO mice exhibited a rightward shift in the nicotine dose-response curve compared with WT littermates but that α4 KO failed to show nicotine preference, suggesting that α6α4β2*-nAChRs are involved. Furthermore, α6β2* nAChRs in nucleus accumbens were found to have an important role in nicotine-conditioned reward as the intra-accumbal injection of the selective α6β2* α-conotoxin MII [H9A; L15A], blocked nicotine CPP. In contrast to nicotine, α6 KO failed to condition to cocaine, but cocaine CPP in the α4 KO was preserved. Intriguingly, α-conotoxin MII [H9A; L15A], blocked cocaine conditioning in α4 KO mice, implicating α6β2* nAChRs in cocaine reward. Importantly, these effects did not generalize as α6 KO showed both a conditioned place aversion to lithium chloride as well as CPP to palatable food. Finally, dopamine uptake was not different between the α6 KO or WT mice. These data illustrate that the subjective rewarding effects of both nicotine and cocaine may be mediated by mesolimbic α6β2* nAChRs and that antagonists of these receptor subtypes may exhibit therapeutic potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah S Sanjakdar
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Pretal P Maldoon
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Michael J Marks
- Institute for Behavioral Genetics and Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO, USA
| | - Darlene H Brunzell
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Uwe Maskos
- Département de Neuroscience, Institut Pasteur, Unité Neurobiologie intégrative des systèmes cholinergiques, CNRS, Paris, France
| | - J Michael McIntosh
- George E. Wahlen Veterans Affairs Medical Center, and Departments of Psychiatry and Biology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - M Scott Bowers
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA,Virginia Institute for Psychiatric and Behavioral Genetics, Department of Psychiatry, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - M Imad Damaj
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA,Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, 1220 E. Broad Street, Molecular Medicine Research Building, Box 980613, Richmond, VA 23298-0613, USA, Tel: +1 804 828 1676, Fax: +1 804 828 2117, E-mail:
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Luchicchi A, Bloem B, Viaña JNM, Mansvelder HD, Role LW. Illuminating the role of cholinergic signaling in circuits of attention and emotionally salient behaviors. Front Synaptic Neurosci 2014; 6:24. [PMID: 25386136 PMCID: PMC4209819 DOI: 10.3389/fnsyn.2014.00024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2014] [Accepted: 10/03/2014] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Acetylcholine (ACh) signaling underlies specific aspects of cognitive functions and behaviors, including attention, learning, memory and motivation. Alterations in ACh signaling are involved in the pathophysiology of multiple neuropsychiatric disorders. In the central nervous system, ACh transmission is mainly guaranteed by dense innervation of select cortical and subcortical regions from disperse groups of cholinergic neurons within the basal forebrain (BF; e.g., diagonal band, medial septal, nucleus basalis) and the pontine-mesencephalic nuclei, respectively. Despite the fundamental role of cholinergic signaling in the CNS and the long standing knowledge of the organization of cholinergic circuitry, remarkably little is known about precisely how ACh release modulates cortical and subcortical neural activity and the behaviors these circuits subserve. Growing interest in cholinergic signaling in the CNS focuses on the mechanism(s) of action by which endogenously released ACh regulates cognitive functions, acting as a neuromodulator and/or as a direct transmitter via nicotinic and muscarinic receptors. The development of optogenetic techniques has provided a valuable toolbox with which we can address these questions, as it allows the selective manipulation of the excitability of cholinergic inputs to the diverse array of cholinergic target fields within cortical and subcortical domains. Here, we review recent papers that use the light-sensitive opsins in the cholinergic system to elucidate the role of ACh in circuits related to attention and emotionally salient behaviors. In particular, we highlight recent optogenetic studies which have tried to disentangle the precise role of ACh in the modulation of cortical-, hippocampal- and striatal-dependent functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Luchicchi
- Department of Integrative Neurophysiology, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, Neuroscience Campus Amsterdam, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Bernard Bloem
- Department of Integrative Neurophysiology, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, Neuroscience Campus Amsterdam, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Netherlands ; McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - John Noel M Viaña
- Department of Integrative Neurophysiology, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, Neuroscience Campus Amsterdam, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Huibert D Mansvelder
- Department of Integrative Neurophysiology, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, Neuroscience Campus Amsterdam, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Lorna W Role
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, Stony Brook University Stony Brook, NY, USA
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Acevedo-Rodriguez A, Zhang L, Zhou F, Gong S, Gu H, De Biasi M, Zhou FM, Dani JA. Cocaine inhibition of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors influences dopamine release. Front Synaptic Neurosci 2014; 6:19. [PMID: 25237305 PMCID: PMC4154440 DOI: 10.3389/fnsyn.2014.00019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2014] [Accepted: 08/18/2014] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) potently regulate dopamine (DA) release in the striatum and alter cocaine's ability to reinforce behaviors. Since cocaine is a weak nAChR inhibitor, we hypothesized that cocaine may alter DA release by inhibiting the nAChRs in DA terminals in the striatum and thus contribute to cocaine's reinforcing properties primarily associated with the inhibition of DA transporters. We found that biologically relevant concentrations of cocaine can mildly inhibit nAChR-mediated currents in midbrain DA neurons and consequently alter DA release in the dorsal and ventral striatum. At very high concentrations, cocaine also inhibits voltage-gated Na channels in DA neurons. Furthermore, our results show that partial inhibition of nAChRs by cocaine reduces evoked DA release. This diminution of DA release via nAChR inhibition more strongly influences release evoked at low or tonic stimulation frequencies than at higher (phasic) stimulation frequencies, particularly in the dorsolateral striatum. This cocaine-induced shift favoring phasic DA release may contribute to the enhanced saliency and motivational value of cocaine-associated memories and behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lifen Zhang
- Department of Neuroscience, Baylor College of Medicine Houston, TX, USA
| | - Fuwen Zhou
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Tennessee College of Medicine Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Suzhen Gong
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Tennessee College of Medicine Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Howard Gu
- Department of Pharmacology, Ohio State University Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Mariella De Biasi
- Departments of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Fu-Ming Zhou
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Tennessee College of Medicine Memphis, TN, USA
| | - John A Dani
- Department of Neuroscience, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania Philadelphia, PA, USA
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Metaxas A, Keyworth H, Yoo J, Chen Y, Kitchen I, Bailey A. The stereotypy-inducing and OCD-like effects of chronic 'binge' cocaine are modulated by distinct subtypes of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors. Br J Pharmacol 2013; 167:450-64. [PMID: 22568685 DOI: 10.1111/j.1476-5381.2012.02023.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE High rates of cigarette smoking occur in cocaine-dependent individuals, reflecting an involvement of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) in cocaine-elicited behaviour. This study was designed to assess the contribution of different nAChR subtypes to the behavioural and neurochemical effects of chronic cocaine treatment. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Cocaine (15 mg·kg(-1) , i.p.) was administered to male C57BL/6J mice in a chronic 'binge' paradigm, with and without the coadministration of the α7 preferring nAChR antagonist methyllycaconitine (MLA; 5 mg·kg(-1) , i.p.) or the β2* nAChR antagonist dihydro-β-erythroidine (DHβE; 2 mg·kg(-1) , i.p.). Quantitative autoradiography was used to examine the effect of cocaine exposure on α7 and α4β2* nAChRs, and on the high-affinity choline transporter. KEY RESULTS MLA+cocaine administration induced an intense self-grooming behaviour, indicating a likely role for α7 nAChRs in modulating this anxiogenic, compulsive-like effect of cocaine. In the major island of Calleja, a key area of action for neuroleptics, MLA+cocaine reduced choline transporter binding compared with cocaine (with or without DHβE) administration. DHβE treatment prevented the induction of stereotypy sensitisation to cocaine but prolonged locomotor sensitisation, implicating heteromeric β2* nAChRs in the neuroadaptations mediating cocaine-induced behavioural sensitisation. 'Binge' cocaine treatment region-specifically increased α4β2* nAChR binding in the midbrain dopaminergic regions: ventral tegmental area and substantia nigra pars compacta. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS We have shown a differential, subtype-selective, contribution of nAChRs to the behavioural and neurochemical sequelae of chronic cocaine administration. These data support the clinical utility of targeting specific nAChR subtypes for the alleviation of cocaine-abuse symptomatology.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Metaxas
- Department of Biochemistry and Physiology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Institute of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford, UK.
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Acetylcholine as a neuromodulator: cholinergic signaling shapes nervous system function and behavior. Neuron 2012; 76:116-29. [PMID: 23040810 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2012.08.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 798] [Impact Index Per Article: 66.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/30/2012] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Acetylcholine in the brain alters neuronal excitability, influences synaptic transmission, induces synaptic plasticity, and coordinates firing of groups of neurons. As a result, it changes the state of neuronal networks throughout the brain and modifies their response to internal and external inputs: the classical role of a neuromodulator. Here, we identify actions of cholinergic signaling on cellular and synaptic properties of neurons in several brain areas and discuss consequences of this signaling on behaviors related to drug abuse, attention, food intake, and affect. The diverse effects of acetylcholine depend on site of release, receptor subtypes, and target neuronal population; however, a common theme is that acetylcholine potentiates behaviors that are adaptive to environmental stimuli and decreases responses to ongoing stimuli that do not require immediate action. The ability of acetylcholine to coordinate the response of neuronal networks in many brain areas makes cholinergic modulation an essential mechanism underlying complex behaviors.
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Reid AG, Lingford-Hughes AR, Cancela LM, Kalivas PW. Substance abuse disorders. HANDBOOK OF CLINICAL NEUROLOGY 2012; 106:419-31. [PMID: 22608635 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-444-52002-9.00024-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
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Rahman S. Brain nicotinic receptors as emerging targets for drug addiction: neurobiology to translational research. PROGRESS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE 2011; 98:349-65. [PMID: 21199776 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-385506-0.00008-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Drug addiction, a chronic relapsing disorder, is a serious public health problem around the world. A growing body of preclinical and clinical evidence suggests that mammalian brain nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs), the heterogeneous family of ion channels, play a pivotal role in drug addiction, including nicotine and alcohol dependence. As a result, there is an increasing interest in developing nAChR-based therapies for the treatment of addictive disorders. The current review summarizes the important preclinical and clinical data, demonstrating the ability of nAChR ligands to modulate nicotine and alcohol-induced biobehavioral and neurochemical changes in laboratory animals and humans. Recent studies suggest that partial agonists and antagonists at nAChRs have therapeutic potential for the management of nicotine and alcohol dependence. The complexity of nAChRs and their regulation for the development of nAChR-based drug candidates as novel pharmacotherapy for other addictive disorders will also be discussed. Taken together, this review will provide new insights into nAChR-based compounds and offer innovative translational strategies for combating drug addictive disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shafiqur Rahman
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, South Dakota State University, Brookings, South Dakota, USA
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22
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Inhibitory influence of mecamylamine on ethanol withdrawal-induced symptoms in C57BL/6J mice. Behav Pharmacol 2010; 21:90-5. [PMID: 20168214 DOI: 10.1097/fbp.0b013e328337be54] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Several reports show the involvement of neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) in the behavioral effects of ethanol, including ethanol drinking and relapse. Therefore, this study evaluated the effects of mecamylamine, a nAChR antagonist, on ethanol withdrawal signs. Ethanol dependence was induced in C57BL/6J mice by ethanol liquid diet administration. Animals were provided with nutritionally balanced control liquid diet (600 kcal/l) as their sole nutrient source on day 0; from days 1 to 4, 3% v/v of ethanol, followed by 6% v/v of ethanol (from days 5 to 7), and 10% v/v of ethanol (from days 8 to 10) were incorporated into the liquid diet. On day 11, ethanol liquid diet was replaced with nutritionally balanced control liquid diet, and ethanol withdrawal-induced physical signs were recorded. Results showed that acute administration of mecamylamine (1-4 mg/kg, intraperitoneally) dose-dependently attenuated ethanol withdrawal-induced signs, and these effects were comparable with those of diazepam (1-2 mg/kg, intraperitoneally). In addition, chronic administration of mecamylamine into ethanol diet-fed mice markedly attenuated the ethanol withdrawal sign scores, thus supporting the contention that nAChR is involved in ethanol dependence. In conclusion, our results suggest that mecamylamine exhibited inhibitory effects on ethanol withdrawal signs which could be mediated through nAChR.
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Bhutada PS, Mundhada YR, Bansod KU, Dixit PV, Umathe SN, Mundhada DR. Inhibitory influence of mecamylamine on the development and the expression of ethanol-induced locomotor sensitization in mice. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2010; 96:266-73. [PMID: 20580908 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2010.05.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2009] [Revised: 04/20/2010] [Accepted: 05/13/2010] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Several evidences have indicated the involvement of neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChR) in behavioral effects of drugs of abuse, including ethanol. nAChRs are implicated in ethanol-induced behaviors as well as neurochemical responses to ethanol. Recently, it is demonstrated that mecamylamine, a nAChR antagonist blocks cocaine-, d-amphetamine-, ephedrine-, nicotine-, and methylphenidate-induced psychomotor sensitization. However, no reports are available on its role in ethanol-induced psychomotor sensitization. Therefore, an attempt was made to evaluate its effect on ethanol-induced locomotor sensitization using a model previously described by us. The results revealed that acute administration of mecamylamine (1 and 2mg/kg, i.p.) blocked the acute stimulant effect of ethanol (2.0g/kg, i.p.). In addition, treatment with mecamylamine (0.5-2.0mg/kg, i.p.), 30min prior to the challenge dose of ethanol (2.0g/kg, i.p.) dose dependently attenuated expression of sensitization to locomotor stimulant effect of ethanol. Moreover, administration of mecamylamine (1 and 2mg/kg, i.p.) during development (prior to each ethanol injection on days 1, 4, 7, and 10) blocked acquisition as well as expression (day 15) of sensitization to locomotor stimulant effect of ethanol. Mecamylamine per se did not affect locomotor activity. Further, it also did not influence blood ethanol levels and rotarod performance in mice. These results support the hypothesis that neuroadaptive changes in nAChRs may participate in the development and the expression of ethanol-induced locomotor sensitization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pravinkumar S Bhutada
- Agnihotri College of Pharmacy, Pharmacology Division, Bapuji Wadi, Sindhi (Meghe), Wardha-442 001, Maharashtra, India.
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Nicotinic receptors differentially modulate the induction and expression of behavioral sensitization to methylphenidate in rats. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2009; 204:551-62. [PMID: 19229521 PMCID: PMC2682633 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-009-1487-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2008] [Accepted: 01/31/2009] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE Nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) regulate sensitization to stimulant drugs such as d-amphetamine and cocaine. OBJECTIVES The current study determined if nAChRs modulate the induction and/or expression of behavioral sensitization to high methylphenidate doses. METHODS In experiment 1, rats received saline or mecamylamine (3 mg/kg, sc), followed by saline or methylphenidate (5.6 or 10 mg/kg, sc) during 10 daily sessions; the effect of methylphenidate (1-17 mg/kg, sc) alone was determined 14 days later. In experiment 2, rats received saline or dihydro-beta-erythroidine (DHbetaE; 3 mg/kg, sc), followed by saline or 5.6 mg/kg of methylphenidate. In experiment 3, rats received saline or methylphenidate (5.6 or 10 mg/kg, sc) alone for 10 days; the effect of acute mecamylamine (3 mg/kg, sc) on the response to methylphenidate (1-17 mg/kg, sc) was determined 14 days later. Locomotor activity, sniffing, rearing, grooming, and stereotypy ratings were dependent measures. RESULTS Methylphenidate produced dose-dependent increases in locomotor activity, sniffing, and stereotypy on day 1 and these effects were enhanced on day 10, indicative of sensitization. Mecamylamine attenuated methylphenidate-induced stereotypy only on day 1, but reduced locomotor activity, sniffing, rearing, and stereotypy on day 10 and during the methylphenidate challenge phase; similar results were obtained with DHbetaE. However, acute mecamylamine did not alter the effects of the methylphenidate challenge following the induction of sensitization to methylphenidate alone. CONCLUSIONS Although nAChRs do not appear to regulate the expression of methylphenidate-induced behavioral sensitization, inhibition of high-affinity beta2 subunit nAChRs attenuates the induction of behavioral sensitization to high doses of methylphenidate.
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Effects of subunit selective nACh receptors on operant ethanol self-administration and relapse-like ethanol-drinking behavior. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2009; 203:99-108. [PMID: 18987848 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-008-1375-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2007] [Accepted: 10/08/2008] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE AND OBJECTIVES The sensitivity to ethanol central effects is partially determined by the subunit composition of brain nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs). Thus, the effects of intraventral tegmental area (VTA) administration of the nicotinic subunit-specific antagonist, alpha-conotoxin MII (alphaCtxMII, alpha(3)beta(2)*, beta(3)*, alpha(6)*), were compared to those of systemic mecamylamine (MEC, an allosteric negative modulator of the nAChR), dihydro-beta-erythroidine (DHbetaE, alpha(4)beta(2)*), and methyllycaconitine (MLA, alpha(7)*) to elucidate involvement of different subunits of nAChRs in operant ethanol self-administration and relapse-like activation of ethanol consumption after ethanol deprivation in rats. METHODS The effects of drugs were studied in rats trained for operant oral self-administration of ethanol (FR = 1). For ethanol deprivation, trained animals were subjected to a period of alcohol deprivation for 10 days. alphaCtxMII was given directly into the VTA through implanted permanent intracranial cannulae, whereas MEC, DHbetaE, and MLA were administered systemically. RESULTS alphaCtxMII reduced operant ethanol self-administration and blocked the deprivation-induced relapse-like ethanol consumption. MEC reduced operant ethanol self-administration and inhibited the deprivation-induced increase in alcohol consumption. DHbetaE did not alter ethanol self-administration in the lower-dose range but inhibited ethanol intake at a higher dose (4 mg/kg), although this effect might have been nonspecific. MLA failed to block self-administration of ethanol and relapse-like drinking after deprivation. CONCLUSIONS Our results indicate that nAChRs are involved in the modulation of operant alcohol self-administration and relapse-like alcohol drinking behavior in rats. Our observations support the working hypothesis that systemically active selective ligands for nAChR alpha(3)beta(2)*, beta(3), and/or alpha(6)* receptor subunits might be of therapeutic value for the treatment of alcoholism.
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Grucza RA, Wang JC, Stitzel JA, Hinrichs AL, Saccone SF, Saccone NL, Bucholz KK, Cloninger CR, Neuman RJ, Budde JP, Fox L, Bertelsen S, Kramer J, Hesselbrock V, Tischfield J, Nurnberger JI, Almasy L, Porjesz B, Kuperman S, Schuckit MA, Edenberg HJ, Rice JP, Goate AM, Bierut LJ. A risk allele for nicotine dependence in CHRNA5 is a protective allele for cocaine dependence. Biol Psychiatry 2008; 64:922-9. [PMID: 18519132 PMCID: PMC2582594 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2008.04.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 106] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2007] [Revised: 03/19/2008] [Accepted: 04/05/2008] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A nonsynonymous coding polymorphism, rs16969968, of the CHRNA5 gene that encodes the alpha-5 subunit of the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) has been found to be associated with nicotine dependence. The goal of this study was to examine the association of this variant with cocaine dependence. METHODS Genetic association analysis was performed in two independent samples of unrelated case and control subjects: 1) 504 European Americans participating in the Family Study on Cocaine Dependence (FSCD) and 2) 814 European Americans participating in the Collaborative Study on the Genetics of Alcoholism (COGA). RESULTS In the FSCD, there was a significant association between the CHRNA5 variant and cocaine dependence (odds ratio = .67 per allele, p = .0045, assuming an additive genetic model), but in the reverse direction compared with that previously observed for nicotine dependence. In multivariate analyses that controlled for the effects of nicotine dependence, both the protective effect for cocaine dependence and the previously documented risk effect for nicotine dependence were statistically significant. The protective effect for cocaine dependence was replicated in the COGA sample. In COGA, effect sizes for habitual smoking, a proxy phenotype for nicotine dependence, were consistent with those observed in FSCD. CONCLUSIONS The minor (A) allele of rs16969968, relative to the major G allele, appears to be both a risk factor for nicotine dependence and a protective factor for cocaine dependence. The biological plausibility of such a bidirectional association stems from the involvement of nAChRs with both excitatory and inhibitory modulation of dopamine-mediated reward pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard A Grucza
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, 660 South Euclid Avenue, Box 8134, St. Louis, Missouri 63110, USA.
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Abstract
Central nervous system cholinergic neurons arise from several discrete sources, project to multiple brain regions, and exert specific effects on reward, learning, and memory. These processes are critical for the development and persistence of addictive disorders. Although other neurotransmitters, including dopamine, glutamate, and serotonin, have been the primary focus of drug research to date, a growing preclinical literature reveals a critical role of acetylcholine (ACh) in the experience and progression of drug use. This review will present and integrate the findings regarding the role of ACh in drug dependence, with a primary focus on cocaine and the muscarinic ACh system. Mesostriatal ACh appears to mediate reinforcement through its effect on reward, satiation, and aversion, and chronic cocaine administration produces neuroadaptive changes in the striatum. ACh is further involved in the acquisition of conditional associations that underlie cocaine self-administration and context-dependent sensitization, the acquisition of associations in conditioned learning, and drug procurement through its effects on arousal and attention. Long-term cocaine use may induce neuronal alterations in the brain that affect the ACh system and impair executive function, possibly contributing to the disruptions in decision making that characterize this population. These primarily preclinical studies suggest that ACh exerts a myriad of effects on the addictive process and that persistent changes to the ACh system following chronic drug use may exacerbate the risk of relapse during recovery. Ultimately, ACh modulation may be a potential target for pharmacological treatment interventions in cocaine-addicted subjects. However, the complicated neurocircuitry of the cholinergic system, the multiple ACh receptor subtypes, the confluence of excitatory and inhibitory ACh inputs, and the unique properties of the striatal cholinergic interneurons suggest that a precise target of cholinergic manipulation will be required to impact substance use in the clinical population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark J Williams
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390-8564, USA.
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Colussi-Mas J, Geisler S, Zimmer L, Zahm DS, Bérod A. Activation of afferents to the ventral tegmental area in response to acute amphetamine: a double-labelling study. Eur J Neurosci 2007; 26:1011-25. [PMID: 17714194 PMCID: PMC3235790 DOI: 10.1111/j.1460-9568.2007.05738.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The ventral tegmental area (VTA), primary source of the mesocorticolimbic dopaminergic system, is regarded as a critical site for initiation of behavioural sensitization to psychostimulants. The present study was undertaken to identify the neural pathways converging on the VTA that are potentially implicated in this process. Rats were sensitized by a single exposure to amphetamine (5 mg/kg, s.c.). The distribution of VTA-projecting neurons activated by amphetamine was examined by combining retrograde transport of the cholera toxin beta subunit (CTb), injected into the VTA, with immunodetection of Fos. The quantitative analysis of CTb-Fos double labelling demonstrates that amphetamine induced a rapid activation of Fos in a large number of brain areas projecting to the VTA. More than half of the CTb-Fos double-labelled neurons were located in the prefrontal cortex, lateral preoptic area-lateral hypothalamus, pontomesencephalic tegmentum, dorsal raphe nucleus, ventral pallidum and nucleus accumbens. In addition, scattered CTb-Fos double-labelled cells were observed in many other VTA afferent structures, such as claustrum, lateral septum, diagonal band-magnocellular preoptic nucleus, deep mesencephalic nucleus, oral part of pontine reticular nucleus and dorsomedial tegmental area. This suggests that systemic amphetamine activates a wide population of neurons projecting to the VTA that may be important for the modulation of neurobehavioural plasticity produced by this psychostimulant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joyce Colussi-Mas
- FRE CNRS 3006, Laboratoire de Neuropharmacologie, Université Lyon 1, 69373 Lyon Cedex 08, France
| | - Stefanie Geisler
- Department of Pharmacological and Physiological Science, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, 1402S Grand Blvd, St Louis, MO 63104, USA
| | - Luc Zimmer
- FRE CNRS 3006, Laboratoire de Neuropharmacologie, Université Lyon 1, 69373 Lyon Cedex 08, France
| | - Daniel S. Zahm
- Department of Pharmacological and Physiological Science, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, 1402S Grand Blvd, St Louis, MO 63104, USA
| | - Anne Bérod
- FRE CNRS 3006, Laboratoire de Neuropharmacologie, Université Lyon 1, 69373 Lyon Cedex 08, France
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Zanetti L, Picciotto MR, Zoli M. Differential effects of nicotinic antagonists perfused into the nucleus accumbens or the ventral tegmental area on cocaine-induced dopamine release in the nucleus accumbens of mice. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2007; 190:189-99. [PMID: 17061109 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-006-0598-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2006] [Accepted: 09/21/2006] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE The mesolimbic dopamine (DA) system is considered a principal site for nicotine-cocaine interactions. OBJECTIVES AND METHODS The aim of this paper is to study the effects of local perfusions (through the microdialysis cannula) of nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) antagonists in the ventral tegmental area (VTA, where mesolimbic DA cell bodies are located) or nucleus accumbens (nAc, where mesolimbic DA nerve terminals project) on cocaine-elicited increase in DA levels in the nAc of mice using intracerebral microdialysis. RESULTS Intra-nAc perfusion of mecamylamine (a nonselective central nicotinic antagonist) or coperfusion of methyllycaconitine (MLA, 10 nM) and dihydro-beta-erythroidine (DHbetaE, 10-100 muM) decreased cocaine-elicited increase in DA perfusate levels. In contrast, intra-nAc perfusion of MLA alone (a relatively selective antagonist of alpha7 subunit-containing nAChRs) increased, while DHbetaE (a relatively selective antagonist of heteromeric nAChR subtypes) did not alter, cocaine-elicited increase in DA perfusate levels. Intra-VTA perfusion of MLA (100 nM) or DHbetaE (100 micro M) significantly increased the cocaine-elicited increase of DA levels in the nAc or VTA, whereas DHbetaE and MLA coperfusion or mecamylamine perfusion had no significant effect. CONCLUSIONS These results show that intra-nAc and intra-VTA perfusion of nAChR antagonists differentially affect cocaine-elicited increase in DA levels in a region and subtype-specific manner. This suggests that multiple cholinergic/nicotinic pathways influence the effects of cocaine on mesolimbic DA neurons in complex, and sometimes opposing, patterns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lara Zanetti
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Section of Physiology, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, via Campi 287, 41100, Modena, Italy
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Alderson HL, Latimer MP, Winn P. Intravenous self-administration of nicotine is altered by lesions of the posterior, but not anterior, pedunculopontine tegmental nucleus. Eur J Neurosci 2006; 23:2169-75. [PMID: 16630063 DOI: 10.1111/j.1460-9568.2006.04737.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The reinforcing properties of nicotine involve actions at nicotinic acetylcholine receptors located on dopamine (DA) neurons in the ventral tegmental area (VTA). The pedunculopontine tegmental nucleus (PPTg) is involved in the regulation of these DA neurons, and those of the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNc). The PPTg can be subdivided into anterior (aPPTg) and posterior (pPPTg) regions on the basis of its innervation of midbrain DA neurons - the pPPTg innervates both VTA and SNc while the aPPTg innervates SNc. As the reinforcing actions of nicotine depend on its actions in the VTA more than SNc, it was hypothesized that excitotoxic lesions of pPPTg would alter nicotine reinforcement, measured by intravenous self-administration, while lesions of aPPTg would not. Rats were given ibotenate lesions of pPPTg or aPPTg, followed by intravenous catheterization. Intravenous self-administration (IVSA) of nicotine (0.03 mg/kg/inf) was carried out until a stable response baseline was reached. A dose-response function for nicotine was then established. There was no significant effect of aPPTg lesions on nicotine IVSA, while IVSA was significantly elevated following pPPTg lesions, compared with both sham lesioned controls and aPPTg excitotoxin lesioned rats. This was found across all doses, including saline, of the dose-response function. The differential effect of aPPTg lesions and pPPTg lesions suggests that disruption of regulatory innervation from pPPTg results in altered regulation of VTA DA neurons. The resulting change in nicotine self-administration behaviour was hypothesized to reflect either a reduction in intrinsic nicotine reward value, or enhancement of associative incentive salience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helen L Alderson
- School of Psychology, St Andrews University, St Mary's Quad, South Street, St Andrews, Fife, KY16 9JP, UK.
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