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Luo T, Zhao ZH, Wu MR, Ren XY, Xu ZY, Li LJ, Yi Y, Wang HX, Wang LM. Network pharmacology screening, in vitro and in vivo evaluation of antianxiety and antidepressant drug-food analogue. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 134:155999. [PMID: 39241390 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2024.155999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2024] [Revised: 05/06/2024] [Accepted: 05/31/2024] [Indexed: 09/09/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Depression and anxiety disorders are prevalent psychiatric conditions, and currently utilized chemical drugs typically come with significant adverse effects. China boasts a wealth of medicinal and food herbs known for their safe and effective properties. PURPOSE This study aimed to develop novel formulations with improved antidepressant and anxiolytic effects derived from medicinal and food herbs. STUDY DESIGN Screening combinations with antidepressant and anxiolytic effects using techniques such as network pharmacology and validating their effects in vitro and in vivo experiments. METHODS Utilizing network pharmacology and molecular docking, we identified the top ten medicinal herbs with anxiolytic and antidepressant potential. Herbs with cytoprotective effects and non-toxic characteristics were further screened to formulate the herbal blends. Subsequently, we established a PC12 cell injury model and a chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) model in mice to assess the effects of our formulations. RESULTS Ten medicinal herbs were initially screened, and six of them were deemed suitable for formulating the blend, namely Gancao, Dazao, Gouqizi, Sangye, Huangqi, and Jinyinhua (GDGSHJ). The GDGSHJ formulation reduced Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH) leakage, decreased apoptosis, and demonstrated a favorable antidepressant and antianxiety effect in the CUMS mouse model. Besides, GDGSHJ led to the upregulation of serum 5-Hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) content and brain tissue 5-HT, Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), and Dopamine (DA) levels. It also downregulated the expression of SLC6A4 and SLC6A3 genes in the mouse hippocampus while upregulating HTR1A, DRD1, DRD2, and GABRA1 genes. CONCLUSION Our formulation exhibited robust antidepressant and antianxiety effects without inducing substantial toxicity. This efficacy appears to be mediated by the expression of relevant genes within the hippocampus of mice. The formulation achieved this effect by balancing 5-HT levels in the serum and DA, GABA, and 5-HT levels within brain tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Luo
- College of Life Science and Technology, Wuhan Polytechnic University, Wuhan 430023, PR China
| | - Zhi-Heng Zhao
- College of Life Science and Technology, Wuhan Polytechnic University, Wuhan 430023, PR China
| | - Min-Rui Wu
- College of Life Science and Technology, Wuhan Polytechnic University, Wuhan 430023, PR China
| | - Xiao-Yu Ren
- College of Life Science and Technology, Wuhan Polytechnic University, Wuhan 430023, PR China
| | - Zi-Yang Xu
- College of Life Science and Technology, Wuhan Polytechnic University, Wuhan 430023, PR China
| | - Long-Jie Li
- College of Life Science and Technology, Wuhan Polytechnic University, Wuhan 430023, PR China
| | - Yang Yi
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Wuhan Polytechnic University, Wuhan 430023, PR China
| | - Hong-Xun Wang
- College of Life Science and Technology, Wuhan Polytechnic University, Wuhan 430023, PR China
| | - Li-Mei Wang
- College of Life Science and Technology, Wuhan Polytechnic University, Wuhan 430023, PR China.
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Tian X, Russo SJ, Li L. Behavioral Animal Models and Neural-Circuit Framework of Depressive Disorder. Neurosci Bull 2024:10.1007/s12264-024-01270-7. [PMID: 39120643 DOI: 10.1007/s12264-024-01270-7] [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: 02/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Depressive disorder is a chronic, recurring, and potentially life-endangering neuropsychiatric disease. According to a report by the World Health Organization, the global population suffering from depression is experiencing a significant annual increase. Despite its prevalence and considerable impact on people, little is known about its pathogenesis. One major reason is the scarcity of reliable animal models due to the absence of consensus on the pathology and etiology of depression. Furthermore, the neural circuit mechanism of depression induced by various factors is particularly complex. Considering the variability in depressive behavior patterns and neurobiological mechanisms among different animal models of depression, a comparison between the neural circuits of depression induced by various factors is essential for its treatment. In this review, we mainly summarize the most widely used behavioral animal models and neural circuits under different triggers of depression, aiming to provide a theoretical basis for depression prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangyun Tian
- State Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Science, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
- University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Scott J Russo
- Nash Family Department of Neuroscience, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA.
- Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA.
| | - Long Li
- State Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Science, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China.
- University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China.
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Jia L, Yin J, Liu T, Qi W, Du T, Li Q, Ma K, Si J, Yin J, Li Y. Activation of Ventral Tegmental Area Dopaminergic Neurons Projecting to the Parabrachial Nucleus Promotes Emergence from Propofol Anesthesia in Male Rats. Neurochem Res 2024; 49:2060-2074. [PMID: 38814359 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-024-04169-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2023] [Revised: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024]
Abstract
Since the clinical introduction of general anesthesia, its underlying mechanisms have not been fully elucidated. The ventral tegmental area (VTA) and parabrachial nucleus (PBN) play pivotal roles in the mechanisms underlying general anesthesia. However, whether dopaminergic (DA) projections from the VTA to the PBN play a role in mediating the effects of general anesthesia is unclear. We microinjected 6-hydroxydopamine into the PBN to damage tyrosine hydroxylase positive (TH+) neurons and found a prolonged recovery time from propofol anesthesia. We used calcium fiber photometry recording to explore the activity of TH + neurons in the PBN. Then, we used chemogenetic and optogenetic approaches either activate the VTADA-PBN pathway, shortening the propofol anesthesia emergence time, or inhibit this pathway, prolonging the emergence time. These data indicate the crucial involvement of TH + neurons in the PBN in regulating emergence from propofol anesthesia, while the activation of the VTADA-PBN pathway facilitates the emergence of propofol anesthesia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Jia
- Department of Anesthesiology, First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Shihezi University, Shihezi, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Central Asia High Incidence Diseases, First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Shihezi University, Shihezi, China
| | - Jieting Yin
- Department of Anesthesiology, First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Shihezi University, Shihezi, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Central Asia High Incidence Diseases, First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Shihezi University, Shihezi, China
| | - Tielong Liu
- Department of Anesthesiology, First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Shihezi University, Shihezi, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Central Asia High Incidence Diseases, First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Shihezi University, Shihezi, China
| | - Wenqiang Qi
- Department of Anesthesiology, First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Shihezi University, Shihezi, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Central Asia High Incidence Diseases, First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Shihezi University, Shihezi, China
| | - Tongyu Du
- Department of Anesthesiology, First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Shihezi University, Shihezi, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Central Asia High Incidence Diseases, First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Shihezi University, Shihezi, China
| | - Quntao Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Shihezi University, Shihezi, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Central Asia High Incidence Diseases, First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Shihezi University, Shihezi, China
| | - Ketao Ma
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Key Laboratory of Xinjiang Endemic and Ethnic Diseases, Shihezi University, Shihezi, China
| | - Junqiang Si
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Key Laboratory of Xinjiang Endemic and Ethnic Diseases, Shihezi University, Shihezi, China
| | - Jiangwen Yin
- Department of Anesthesiology, First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Shihezi University, Shihezi, China.
- NHC Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Central Asia High Incidence Diseases, First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Shihezi University, Shihezi, China.
| | - Yan Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Shihezi University, Shihezi, China.
- NHC Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Central Asia High Incidence Diseases, First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Shihezi University, Shihezi, China.
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Zhang Y, Jiang Y, Yu Z, Li Y, Lin X, Weng Y, Guo Z, Hu H, Shao W, Yu G, Zheng F, Cai P, Li H, Wu S. VGluT2 neuron subtypes in the paraventricular thalamic nucleus regulate depression in paraquat-induced Parkinson's disease. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 472:134559. [PMID: 38735189 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.134559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2024] [Revised: 04/14/2024] [Accepted: 05/05/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024]
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) is a prevalent neurodegenerative disease and approximately one third of patients with PD are estimated to experience depression. Paraquat (PQ) is the most widely used herbicide worldwide and PQ exposure is reported to induce PD with depression. However, the specific brain region and neural networks underlying the etiology of depression in PD, especially in the PQ-induced model, have not yet been elucidated. Here, we report that the VGluT2-positive glutamatergic neurons in the paraventricular thalamic nucleus (PVT) promote depression in the PQ-induced PD mouse model. Our results show that PVTVGluT2 neurons are activated by PQ and their activation increases the susceptibility to depression in PD mice. Conversely, inhibition of PVTVGluT2 neurons reversed the depressive-behavioral changes induced by PQ. Similar to the effects of intervention the soma of PVTVGluT2 neurons, stimulation of their projections into the central amygdaloid nucleus (CeA) also strongly influenced depression in PD mice. PQ induced malfunctioning of the glutamate system and changes in the dendritic and synaptic morphology in the CeA through its role on PVTVGluT2 neuronal activation. In summary, our results demonstrate that PVTVGluT2 neurons are key neuronal subtypes for depression in PQ-induced PD and promote depression processes through the PVTVGluT2-CeA pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Zhang
- Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350122, China; The Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350122, China; Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Environmental Factors and Cancer, School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350122, China
| | - Yihua Jiang
- Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350122, China; The Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350122, China; Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Environmental Factors and Cancer, School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350122, China
| | - Zhen Yu
- Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350122, China; The Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350122, China; Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Environmental Factors and Cancer, School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350122, China
| | - Yinhan Li
- Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350122, China; The Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350122, China; Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Environmental Factors and Cancer, School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350122, China
| | - Xinpei Lin
- Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350122, China; The Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350122, China; Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Environmental Factors and Cancer, School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350122, China
| | - Yali Weng
- Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350122, China; The Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350122, China; Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Environmental Factors and Cancer, School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350122, China
| | - Zhenkun Guo
- Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350122, China; The Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350122, China; Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Environmental Factors and Cancer, School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350122, China
| | - Hong Hu
- Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350122, China; The Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350122, China; Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Environmental Factors and Cancer, School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350122, China
| | - Wenya Shao
- Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350122, China; The Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350122, China; Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Environmental Factors and Cancer, School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350122, China
| | - Guangxia Yu
- Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350122, China; The Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350122, China; Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Environmental Factors and Cancer, School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350122, China
| | - Fuli Zheng
- Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350122, China; The Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350122, China; Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Environmental Factors and Cancer, School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350122, China
| | - Ping Cai
- Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350122, China; The Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350122, China; Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Environmental Factors and Cancer, School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350122, China
| | - Huangyuan Li
- Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350122, China; The Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350122, China; Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Environmental Factors and Cancer, School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350122, China.
| | - Siying Wu
- The Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350122, China; Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Environmental Factors and Cancer, School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350122, China; Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350122, China.
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5
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Zhang Y, Ma H, Bai Y, Hou X, Yang Y, Wang G, Li Y. Chronic Neuropathic Pain and Comorbid Depression Syndrome: From Neural Circuit Mechanisms to Treatment. ACS Chem Neurosci 2024; 15:2432-2444. [PMID: 38916052 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.4c00125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Chronic neuropathic pain and comorbid depression syndrome (CDS) is a major worldwide health problem that affects the quality of life of patients and imposes a tremendous socioeconomic burden. More than half of patients with chronic neuropathic pain also suffer from moderate or severe depression. Due to the complex pathogenesis of CDS, there are no effective therapeutic drugs available. The lack of research on the neural circuit mechanisms of CDS limits the development of treatments. The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the various circuits involved in CDS. Notably, activating some neural circuits can alleviate pain and/or depression, while activating other circuits can exacerbate these conditions. Moreover, we discuss current and emerging pharmacotherapies for CDS, such as ketamine. Understanding the circuit mechanisms of CDS may provide clues for the development of novel drug treatments for improved CDS management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Hui Ma
- Beijing Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100850, China
| | - Yafan Bai
- Department of Anesthesiology, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Xiaojuan Hou
- Hebei North University, Zhangjiakou, 075000, China
| | - Yixin Yang
- Beijing Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100850, China
| | - Guyan Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Yunfeng Li
- Beijing Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100850, China
- Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing Key Laboratory of Neuropsychopharmacology, Beijing, 100850, China
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6
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Cao X, Zhu M, Xu G, Li F, Yan Y, Zhang J, Wang J, Zeng F, Bao Y, Zhang X, Liu T, Zhang D. HCN channels in the lateral habenula regulate pain and comorbid depressive-like behaviors in mice. CNS Neurosci Ther 2024; 30:e14831. [PMID: 38961317 PMCID: PMC11222070 DOI: 10.1111/cns.14831] [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: 02/29/2024] [Revised: 06/12/2024] [Accepted: 06/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/05/2024] Open
Abstract
AIMS Comorbid anxiodepressive-like symptoms (CADS) in chronic pain are closely related to the overactivation of the lateral habenula (LHb). Hyperpolarization-activated cyclic nucleotide-gated (HCN) channels have been implicated to play a key role in regulating neuronal excitability. However, the role of HCN channels in the LHb during CADS has not yet been characterized. This study aimed to investigate the effect of HCN channels in the LHb on CADS during chronic pain. METHODS After chronic neuropathic pain induction by spared nerve injury (SNI), mice underwent a sucrose preference test, forced swimming test, tail suspension test, open-field test, and elevated plus maze test to evaluate their anxiodepressive-like behaviors. Electrophysiological recordings, immunohistochemistry, Western blotting, pharmacological experiments, and virus knockdown strategies were used to investigate the underlying mechanisms. RESULTS Evident anxiodepressive-like behaviors were observed 6w after the SNI surgery, accompanied by increased neuronal excitability, enhanced HCN channel function, and increased expression of HCN2 isoforms in the LHb. Either pharmacological inhibition or virus knockdown of HCN2 channels significantly reduced LHb neuronal excitability and ameliorated both pain and depressive-like behaviors. CONCLUSION Our results indicated that the LHb neurons were hyperactive under CADS in chronic pain, and this hyperactivation possibly resulted from the enhanced function of HCN channels and up-regulation of HCN2 isoforms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue‐zhong Cao
- Department of Pain Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical CollegeNanchang UniversityNanchangJiangxiChina
- Key Laboratory of Neuropathic Pain, the First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang UniversityHealthcare Commission of Jiangxi ProvinceNanchangJiangxiChina
- Jiangxi Key Laboratory of Pain Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical CollegeNanchang UniversityNanchangJiangxiChina
| | - Meng‐ye Zhu
- Department of Pain Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical CollegeNanchang UniversityNanchangJiangxiChina
- Key Laboratory of Neuropathic Pain, the First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang UniversityHealthcare Commission of Jiangxi ProvinceNanchangJiangxiChina
- Jiangxi Key Laboratory of Pain Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical CollegeNanchang UniversityNanchangJiangxiChina
| | - Gang Xu
- Department of Pain Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical CollegeNanchang UniversityNanchangJiangxiChina
- Key Laboratory of Neuropathic Pain, the First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang UniversityHealthcare Commission of Jiangxi ProvinceNanchangJiangxiChina
- Jiangxi Key Laboratory of Pain Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical CollegeNanchang UniversityNanchangJiangxiChina
| | - Fan Li
- Department of Pain Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical CollegeNanchang UniversityNanchangJiangxiChina
- Key Laboratory of Neuropathic Pain, the First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang UniversityHealthcare Commission of Jiangxi ProvinceNanchangJiangxiChina
- Jiangxi Key Laboratory of Pain Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical CollegeNanchang UniversityNanchangJiangxiChina
| | - Yi Yan
- Department of Pain Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical CollegeNanchang UniversityNanchangJiangxiChina
- Key Laboratory of Neuropathic Pain, the First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang UniversityHealthcare Commission of Jiangxi ProvinceNanchangJiangxiChina
- Jiangxi Key Laboratory of Pain Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical CollegeNanchang UniversityNanchangJiangxiChina
| | - Jin‐jin Zhang
- Department of Pain Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical CollegeNanchang UniversityNanchangJiangxiChina
- Key Laboratory of Neuropathic Pain, the First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang UniversityHealthcare Commission of Jiangxi ProvinceNanchangJiangxiChina
- Jiangxi Key Laboratory of Pain Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical CollegeNanchang UniversityNanchangJiangxiChina
| | - Jianbing Wang
- Department of AnesthesiologyJiangxi Cancer HospitalNanchangJiangxiChina
| | - Fei Zeng
- Department of Pain Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical CollegeNanchang UniversityNanchangJiangxiChina
- Key Laboratory of Neuropathic Pain, the First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang UniversityHealthcare Commission of Jiangxi ProvinceNanchangJiangxiChina
- Jiangxi Key Laboratory of Pain Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical CollegeNanchang UniversityNanchangJiangxiChina
| | - Yang Bao
- Department of Pain Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical CollegeNanchang UniversityNanchangJiangxiChina
- Key Laboratory of Neuropathic Pain, the First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang UniversityHealthcare Commission of Jiangxi ProvinceNanchangJiangxiChina
- Jiangxi Key Laboratory of Pain Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical CollegeNanchang UniversityNanchangJiangxiChina
| | - Xue‐xue Zhang
- Department of Pain Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical CollegeNanchang UniversityNanchangJiangxiChina
- Key Laboratory of Neuropathic Pain, the First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang UniversityHealthcare Commission of Jiangxi ProvinceNanchangJiangxiChina
- Jiangxi Key Laboratory of Pain Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical CollegeNanchang UniversityNanchangJiangxiChina
| | - Tao Liu
- Department of Pediatricsthe First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang UniversityNanchangJiangxiChina
| | - Da‐ying Zhang
- Department of Pain Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical CollegeNanchang UniversityNanchangJiangxiChina
- Key Laboratory of Neuropathic Pain, the First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang UniversityHealthcare Commission of Jiangxi ProvinceNanchangJiangxiChina
- Jiangxi Key Laboratory of Pain Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical CollegeNanchang UniversityNanchangJiangxiChina
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Grajales-Reyes JG, Chen B, Meseguer D, Schneeberger M. Burning Question: How Does Our Brain Process Positive and Negative Cues Associated with Thermosensation? Physiology (Bethesda) 2024; 39:0. [PMID: 38536114 PMCID: PMC11368520 DOI: 10.1152/physiol.00034.2023] [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: 01/01/2024] [Revised: 03/06/2024] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Whether it is the dramatic suffocating sensation from a heat wave in the summer or the positive reinforcement arising from a hot drink on a cold day; we can certainly agree that our thermal environment underlies our daily rhythms of sensation. Extensive research has focused on deciphering the central circuits responsible for conveying the impact of thermogenesis on mammalian behavior. Here, we revise the recent literature responsible for defining the behavioral correlates that arise from thermogenic fluctuations in mammals. We transition from the physiological significance of thermosensation to the circuitry responsible for the autonomic or behavioral responses associated with it. Subsequently, we delve into the positive and negative valence encoded by thermoregulatory processes. Importantly, we emphasize the crucial junctures where reward, pain, and thermoregulation intersect, unveiling a complex interplay within these neural circuits. Finally, we briefly outline fundamental questions that are pending to be addressed in the field. Fully deciphering the thermoregulatory circuitry in mammals will have far-reaching medical implications. For instance, it may lead to the identification of novel targets to overcome thermal pain or allow the maintenance of our core temperature in prolonged surgeries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jose G Grajales-Reyes
- Department of Anesthesiology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, United States
| | - Bandy Chen
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Laboratory of Neurovascular Control of Homeostasis, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, United States
- Wu Tsai Institute for Mind and Brain, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, United States
| | - David Meseguer
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Laboratory of Neurovascular Control of Homeostasis, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, United States
- Wu Tsai Institute for Mind and Brain, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, United States
| | - Marc Schneeberger
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Laboratory of Neurovascular Control of Homeostasis, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, United States
- Wu Tsai Institute for Mind and Brain, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, United States
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8
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Zhang L, Sun Y, Wang J, Zhang M, Wang Q, Xie B, Yu F, Wen D, Ma C. Dopaminergic dominance in the ventral medial hypothalamus: A pivotal regulator for methamphetamine-induced pathological aggression. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2024; 132:110971. [PMID: 38365104 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2024.110971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2023] [Revised: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 02/18/2024]
Abstract
Methamphetamine (METH) abuse is associated with a spectrum of behavioral consequences, among which heightened aggression presents a significant challenge. However, the causal role of METH's impact in aggression and its target circuit mechanisms remains largely unknown. We established an acute METH exposure-aggression mouse model to investigate the role of ventral tegmental area (VTA) dopaminergic neurons and ventral medial hypothalamus VMH glutamatergic neuron. Our findings revealed that METH-induced VTA dopamine excitability activates the ventromedial hypothalamus (VMH) glutamatergic neurons, contributing to pathological aggression. Notably, we uncovered a dopaminergic transmission within the VTA-VMH circuit that exclusively functioned under METH influence. This dopaminergic pathway emerged as a potential key player in enabling dopamine-related pathological aggression, with heightened dopaminergic excitability implicated in various psychiatric symptoms. Also, the modulatory function of this pathway opens new possibilities for targeted therapeutic strategies for intervention to improve treatment in METH abuse and may have broader implications for addressing pathological aggression syndromes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ludi Zhang
- College of Forensic Medicine, Hebei Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Collaborative Innovation Center of Forensic Medical Molecular Identification, Hebei Medical University, 050017 Shijiazhuang, Hebei, PR China; Identification Center of Forensic Medicine, Hebei Medical University, 050017 Shijiazhuang, Hebei, PR China; Key Laboratory of Neural and Vascular Biology, Ministry of Education, 050017 Shijiazhuang, Hebei, PR China; Hebei Medical University Postdoctoral Research Station, 050017, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, PR China
| | - Yufei Sun
- College of Forensic Medicine, Hebei Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Collaborative Innovation Center of Forensic Medical Molecular Identification, Hebei Medical University, 050017 Shijiazhuang, Hebei, PR China
| | - Jian Wang
- College of Forensic Medicine, Hebei Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Collaborative Innovation Center of Forensic Medical Molecular Identification, Hebei Medical University, 050017 Shijiazhuang, Hebei, PR China; Identification Center of Forensic Medicine, Hebei Medical University, 050017 Shijiazhuang, Hebei, PR China
| | - Minglong Zhang
- College of Forensic Medicine, Hebei Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Collaborative Innovation Center of Forensic Medical Molecular Identification, Hebei Medical University, 050017 Shijiazhuang, Hebei, PR China
| | - Qingwu Wang
- College of Forensic Medicine, Hebei Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Collaborative Innovation Center of Forensic Medical Molecular Identification, Hebei Medical University, 050017 Shijiazhuang, Hebei, PR China; Identification Center of Forensic Medicine, Hebei Medical University, 050017 Shijiazhuang, Hebei, PR China
| | - Bing Xie
- College of Forensic Medicine, Hebei Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Collaborative Innovation Center of Forensic Medical Molecular Identification, Hebei Medical University, 050017 Shijiazhuang, Hebei, PR China; Identification Center of Forensic Medicine, Hebei Medical University, 050017 Shijiazhuang, Hebei, PR China
| | - Feng Yu
- College of Forensic Medicine, Hebei Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Collaborative Innovation Center of Forensic Medical Molecular Identification, Hebei Medical University, 050017 Shijiazhuang, Hebei, PR China; Identification Center of Forensic Medicine, Hebei Medical University, 050017 Shijiazhuang, Hebei, PR China
| | - Di Wen
- College of Forensic Medicine, Hebei Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Collaborative Innovation Center of Forensic Medical Molecular Identification, Hebei Medical University, 050017 Shijiazhuang, Hebei, PR China; Identification Center of Forensic Medicine, Hebei Medical University, 050017 Shijiazhuang, Hebei, PR China; Key Laboratory of Neural and Vascular Biology, Ministry of Education, 050017 Shijiazhuang, Hebei, PR China.
| | - Chunling Ma
- College of Forensic Medicine, Hebei Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Collaborative Innovation Center of Forensic Medical Molecular Identification, Hebei Medical University, 050017 Shijiazhuang, Hebei, PR China; Identification Center of Forensic Medicine, Hebei Medical University, 050017 Shijiazhuang, Hebei, PR China; Key Laboratory of Neural and Vascular Biology, Ministry of Education, 050017 Shijiazhuang, Hebei, PR China.
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9
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Morioka N, Nakamura Y, Hisaoka-Nakashima K, Nakata Y. High mobility group box-1: A therapeutic target for analgesia and associated symptoms in chronic pain. Biochem Pharmacol 2024; 222:116058. [PMID: 38367818 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2024.116058] [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: 11/24/2023] [Revised: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/19/2024]
Abstract
The number of patients with chronic pain continues to increase against the background of an ageing society and a high incidence of various epidemics and disasters. One factor contributing to this situation is the absence of truly effective analgesics. Chronic pain is a persistent stress for the organism and can trigger a variety of neuropsychiatric symptoms. Hence, the search for useful analgesic targets is currently being intensified worldwide, and it is anticipated that the key to success may be molecules involved in emotional as well as sensory systems. High mobility group box-1 (HMGB1) has attracted attention as a therapeutic target for a variety of diseases. It is a very unique molecule having a dual role as a nuclear protein while also functioning as an inflammatory agent outside the cell. In recent years, numerous studies have shown that HMGB1 acts as a pain inducer in primary sensory nerves and the spinal dorsal horn. In addition, HMGB1 can function in the brain, and is involved in the symptoms of depression, anxiety and cognitive dysfunction that accompany chronic pain. In this review, we will summarize recent research and discuss the potential of HMGB1 as a useful drug target for chronic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Norimitsu Morioka
- Department of Pharmacology, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, 1-2-3 Kasumi, Minami-ku, Hiroshima 734-8553, Japan.
| | - Yoki Nakamura
- Department of Pharmacology, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, 1-2-3 Kasumi, Minami-ku, Hiroshima 734-8553, Japan
| | - Kazue Hisaoka-Nakashima
- Department of Pharmacology, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, 1-2-3 Kasumi, Minami-ku, Hiroshima 734-8553, Japan
| | - Yoshihiro Nakata
- Department of Pharmacology, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, 1-2-3 Kasumi, Minami-ku, Hiroshima 734-8553, Japan
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10
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Kc E, Islam J, Lee G, Park YS. Optogenetic Approach in Trigeminal Neuralgia and Potential Concerns: Preclinical Insights. Mol Neurobiol 2024; 61:1769-1780. [PMID: 37775720 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-023-03652-w] [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: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/01/2023]
Abstract
The integration of optogenetics in the trigeminal pain circuitry broadens and reinforces existing pain investigations. Similar to research on spinal neuropathic pain, the exploration of the underlying determinants of orofacial pain is expanding. Optogenetics facilitates more direct, specific, and subtle investigations of the neuronal circuits involved in orofacial pain. One of the most significant concerns of both dentistry and medicine is trigeminal neuralgia (TN) management due to its substantial impact on a patient's quality of life. Our objective is to gather insights from preclinical studies conducted in TN employing an optogenetic paradigm, thereby extending the prospects for in-depth neurobiological research. This review highlights optogenetic research in trigeminal pain circuitry involving TN. We outline the central and peripheral regions associated with pain-that have been investigated using optogenetics in the trigeminal pain circuitry. The study further reports its scope and limitations as well as its potential for future applications from bench to bedside.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elina Kc
- Program in Neuroscience, Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
| | - Jaisan Islam
- Program in Neuroscience, Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
| | - Gabsang Lee
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Institute for Cell Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- The Solomon H. Snyder, Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Young Seok Park
- Program in Neuroscience, Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Republic of Korea.
- Department of Neurosurgery, Chungbuk National University Hospital, Cheongju, Republic of Korea.
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11
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Peng J, Li Y, Li Z, Zou W. Progress in study on animal models of trigeminal neuralgia. ZHONG NAN DA XUE XUE BAO. YI XUE BAN = JOURNAL OF CENTRAL SOUTH UNIVERSITY. MEDICAL SCIENCES 2024; 49:47-53. [PMID: 38615165 PMCID: PMC11017015 DOI: 10.11817/j.issn.1672-7347.2024.230279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2023] [Indexed: 04/15/2024]
Abstract
Trigeminal neuralgia is a manifestation of orofacial neuropathic pain disorder, always deemed to be an insurmountable peak in the field of pain research and treatment. The pain is recurrent, abrupt in onset and termination similar to an electric shock or described as shooting. A poor quality of life has been attributed to trigeminal neuralgia, as the paroxysms of pain may be triggered by innocuous stimuli on the face or inside the oral cavity, such as talking, washing face, chewing and brushing teeth in daily life. The pathogenesis of trigeminal neuralgia has not been fully elucidated, although the microvascular compression in the trigeminal root entry zone is generally considered to be involved in the emergence and progression of the pain disorder. In addition, orofacial neuropathic pain restricted to one or more divisions of the trigeminal nerve might be secondary to peripheral nerve injury. Based on current hypotheses regarding the potential causes, a variety of animal models have been designed to simulate the pathogenesis of trigeminal neuralgia, including models of compression applied to the trigeminal nerve root or trigeminal ganglion, chronic peripheral nerve injury, peripheral inflammatory pain and center-induced pain. However, it has not yet been possible to determine which model can be perfectly employed to explain the mechanisms. The selection of appropriate animal models is of great significance for the study of trigeminal neuralgia. Therefore, it is necessary to discuss the characteristics of the animal models in terms of animal strains, materials, operation methods and behavior observation, in order to gain insight into the research progress in animal models of trigeminal neuralgia. In the future, animal models that closely resemble the features of human trigeminal neuralgia pathogenesis need to be developed, with the aim of making valuable contributions to the relevant basic and translational medical research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingyi Peng
- Department of Anesthesiology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China.
| | - Yihang Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
| | - Zhengyiqi Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
| | - Wangyuan Zou
- Department of Anesthesiology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China.
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12
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Coizet V, Al Tannir R, Pautrat A, Overton PG. Separation of Channels Subserving Approach and Avoidance/Escape at the Level of the Basal Ganglia and Related Brainstem Structures. Curr Neuropharmacol 2024; 22:1473-1490. [PMID: 37594168 PMCID: PMC11097992 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x21666230818154903] [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: 12/09/2022] [Revised: 03/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 08/19/2023] Open
Abstract
The basal ganglia have the key function of directing our behavior in the context of events from our environment and/or our internal state. This function relies on afferents targeting the main input structures of the basal ganglia, entering bids for action selection at the level of the striatum or signals for behavioral interruption at the level of the subthalamic nucleus, with behavioral reselection facilitated by dopamine signaling. Numerous experiments have studied action selection in relation to inputs from the cerebral cortex. However, less is known about the anatomical and functional link between the basal ganglia and the brainstem. In this review, we describe how brainstem structures also project to the main input structures of the basal ganglia, namely the striatum, the subthalamic nucleus and midbrain dopaminergic neurons, in the context of approach and avoidance (including escape from threat), two fundamental, mutually exclusive behavioral choices in an animal's repertoire in which the brainstem is strongly involved. We focus on three particularly well-described loci involved in approach and avoidance, namely the superior colliculus, the parabrachial nucleus and the periaqueductal grey nucleus. We consider what is known about how these structures are related to the basal ganglia, focusing on their projections toward the striatum, dopaminergic neurons and subthalamic nucleus, and explore the functional consequences of those interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Véronique Coizet
- Grenoble Institute of Neuroscience, University Grenoble Alpes, Bâtiment E.J. Safra - Chemin Fortuné Ferrini - 38700 La Tronche France;
| | - Racha Al Tannir
- Grenoble Institute of Neuroscience, University Grenoble Alpes, Bâtiment E.J. Safra - Chemin Fortuné Ferrini - 38700 La Tronche France;
| | - Arnaud Pautrat
- Grenoble Institute of Neuroscience, University Grenoble Alpes, Bâtiment E.J. Safra - Chemin Fortuné Ferrini - 38700 La Tronche France;
| | - Paul G. Overton
- Department of Psychology, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
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13
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Zheng HY, Chen YM, Xu Y, Cen C, Wang Y. Excitatory neurons in the lateral parabrachial nucleus mediate the interruptive effect of inflammatory pain on a sustained attention task. J Transl Med 2023; 21:896. [PMID: 38072957 PMCID: PMC10712130 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-023-04583-9] [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] [Received: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Attentional deficits are among the most common pain-induced cognitive disorders. Pain disrupts attention and may excessively occupy attentional resources in pathological states, leading to daily function impairment and increased disability. However, the neural circuit mechanisms by which pain disrupts attention are incompletely understood. METHODS We used a three-choice serial reaction time task (3CSRTT) to construct a sustained-attention task model in male C57BL/6J mice. Formalin or complete Freund's adjuvant was injected into a paw to establish an inflammatory pain model. We measured changes in 3CSRTT performance in the two inflammatory pain models, and investigated the neural circuit mechanisms of pain-induced attentional deficits. RESULTS Acute inflammatory pain impaired 3CSRTT performance, while chronic inflammatory pain had no effect. Either inhibition of the ascending pain pathway by blockade of the conduction of nociceptive signals in the sciatic nerve using the local anesthetic lidocaine or chemogenetic inhibition of Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase IIα (CaMKIIα) neurons in the lateral parabrachial nucleus (LPBN) attenuated the acute inflammatory pain-induced impairment of 3CSRTT performance, while chemogenetic activation of CaMKIIα neurons in the LPBN disrupted the 3CSRTT. Furthermore, the activity of CaMKIIα neurons in the LPBN was significantly lower on Day 2 after complete Freund's adjuvant injection than on the day of injection, which correlated with the recovery of 3CSRTT performance during chronic inflammatory pain. CONCLUSIONS Activation of excitatory neurons in the LPBN is a mechanism by which acute inflammatory pain disrupts sustained attention. This finding has implications for the treatment of pain and its cognitive comorbidities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huan-Yu Zheng
- Neuroscience Research Institute and Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Key Laboratory for Neuroscience, Ministry of Education/National Health Commission and State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Yu-Meng Chen
- Neuroscience Research Institute and Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Key Laboratory for Neuroscience, Ministry of Education/National Health Commission and State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Yao Xu
- Neuroscience Research Institute and Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Key Laboratory for Neuroscience, Ministry of Education/National Health Commission and State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Cheng Cen
- Neuroscience Research Institute and Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Key Laboratory for Neuroscience, Ministry of Education/National Health Commission and State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China.
| | - Yun Wang
- Neuroscience Research Institute and Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Key Laboratory for Neuroscience, Ministry of Education/National Health Commission and State Key Laboratory of Natural and Biomimetic Drugs, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China.
- PKU-IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China.
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14
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Tsou JH, Lee SR, Chiang CY, Yang YJ, Guo FY, Ni SY, Yau HJ. Negative Emotions Recruit the Parabrachial Nucleus Efferent to the VTA to Disengage Instrumental Food Seeking. J Neurosci 2023; 43:7276-7293. [PMID: 37684032 PMCID: PMC10621778 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.2114-22.2023] [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: 11/14/2022] [Revised: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The parabrachial nucleus (PBN) interfaces between taste and feeding systems and is also an important hub for relaying distress information and threats. Despite that the PBN sends projections to the ventral tegmental area (VTA), a heterogeneous brain region that regulates motivational behaviors, the function of the PBN-to-VTA connection remains elusive. Here, by using male mice in several behavioral paradigms, we discover that VTA-projecting PBN neurons are significantly engaged in contextual fear, restraint or mild stress but not palatable feeding, visceral malaise, or thermal pain. These results suggest that the PBN-to-VTA input may relay negative emotions under threat. Consistent with this notion, optogenetic activation of PBN-to-VTA glutamatergic input results in aversion, which is sufficient to override palatable feeding. Moreover, in a palatable food-reinforced operant task, we demonstrate that transient optogenetic activation of PBN-to-VTA input during food reward retrieval disengages instrumental food-seeking behaviors but spares learned action-outcome association. By using an activity-dependent targeting approach, we show that VTA DA neurons are disengaged by the PBN afferent activation, implicating that VTA non-DA neurons may mediate PBN afferent regulation. We further show that optogenetic activation of VTA neurons functionally recruited by the PBN input results in aversion, dampens palatable feeding, and disengages palatable food self-administration behavior. Finally, we demonstrate that transient activation of VTA glutamatergic, but not GABAergic, neurons recapitulates the negative regulation of the PBN input on food self-administration behavior. Together, we reveal that the PBN-to-VTA input conveys negative affect, likely through VTA glutamatergic neurons, to disengage instrumental food-seeking behaviors.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT The PBN receives multiple inputs and thus is well positioned to route information of various modalities to engage different downstream circuits to attend or respond accordingly. We demonstrate that the PBN-to-VTA input conveys negative affect and then triggers adaptive prioritized responses to address pertinent needs by withholding ongoing behaviors, such as palatable food seeking or intake shown in the present study. It has evolutionary significance because preparing to cope with stressful situations or threats takes priority over food seeking to promote survival. Knowing how appropriate adaptive responses are generated will provide new insights into circuitry mechanisms of various coping behaviors to changing environmental stimuli.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jen-Hui Tsou
- Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
- Synaptic Plasticity Section, Intramural Research Program, National Institute on Drug Abuse, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, Maryland 21224
| | - Syun-Ruei Lee
- Laboratory for Neural Circuits and Behaviors, Graduate Institute of Brain and Mind Sciences, National Taiwan University, Taipei 10051, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Ying Chiang
- Laboratory for Neural Circuits and Behaviors, Graduate Institute of Brain and Mind Sciences, National Taiwan University, Taipei 10051, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Jie Yang
- Laboratory for Neural Circuits and Behaviors, Graduate Institute of Brain and Mind Sciences, National Taiwan University, Taipei 10051, Taiwan
| | - Fong-Yi Guo
- Laboratory for Neural Circuits and Behaviors, Graduate Institute of Brain and Mind Sciences, National Taiwan University, Taipei 10051, Taiwan
| | - Shih-Ying Ni
- School of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei 100, Taiwan
| | - Hau-Jie Yau
- Laboratory for Neural Circuits and Behaviors, Graduate Institute of Brain and Mind Sciences, National Taiwan University, Taipei 10051, Taiwan
- Neurobiology and Cognitive Science Center, National Taiwan University, Taipei 10617, Taiwan
- Taiwan International Graduate Program in Interdisciplinary Neuroscience, National Taiwan University and Academia Sinica, Taipei 115, Taiwan
- PhD Program in Translational Medicine, National Taiwan University and Academia Sinica, Taipei 115, Taiwan
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15
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Flores-García M, Rizzo A, Garçon-Poca MZ, Fernández-Dueñas V, Bonaventura J. Converging circuits between pain and depression: the ventral tegmental area as a therapeutic hub. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1278023. [PMID: 37849731 PMCID: PMC10577189 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1278023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic pain and depression are highly prevalent pathologies and cause a major socioeconomic burden to society. Chronic pain affects the emotional state of the individuals suffering from it, while depression worsens the prognosis of chronic pain patients and may diminish the effectiveness of pain treatments. There is a high comorbidity rate between both pathologies, which might share overlapping mechanisms. This review explores the evidence pinpointing a role for the ventral tegmental area (VTA) as a hub where both pain and emotional processing might converge. In addition, the feasibility of using the VTA as a possible therapeutic target is discussed. The role of the VTA, and the dopaminergic system in general, is highly studied in mood disorders, especially in deficits in reward-processing and motivation. Conversely, the VTA is less regarded where it concerns the study of central mechanisms of pain and its mood-associated consequences. Here, we first outline the brain circuits involving central processing of pain and mood disorders, focusing on the often-understudied role of the dopaminergic system and the VTA. Next, we highlight the state-of-the-art findings supporting the emergence of the VTA as a link where both pathways converge. Thus, we envision a promising part for the VTA as a putative target for innovative therapeutic approaches to treat chronic pain and its effects on mood. Finally, we emphasize the urge to develop and use animal models where both pain and depression-like symptoms are considered in conjunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Montse Flores-García
- Unitat de Farmacologia, Facultat de Medicina i Ciències de la Salut, Institut de Neurociències, Universitat de Barcelona, L’Hospitalet de Llobregat, Catalonia, Spain
- Neuropharmacology and Pain Group, Neuroscience Program, IDIBELL-Institut d’Investigació Biomèdica de Bellvitge, L’Hospitalet de Llobregat, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Arianna Rizzo
- Unitat de Farmacologia, Facultat de Medicina i Ciències de la Salut, Institut de Neurociències, Universitat de Barcelona, L’Hospitalet de Llobregat, Catalonia, Spain
- Neuropharmacology and Pain Group, Neuroscience Program, IDIBELL-Institut d’Investigació Biomèdica de Bellvitge, L’Hospitalet de Llobregat, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Maria Zelai Garçon-Poca
- Unitat de Farmacologia, Facultat de Medicina i Ciències de la Salut, Institut de Neurociències, Universitat de Barcelona, L’Hospitalet de Llobregat, Catalonia, Spain
- Neuropharmacology and Pain Group, Neuroscience Program, IDIBELL-Institut d’Investigació Biomèdica de Bellvitge, L’Hospitalet de Llobregat, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Víctor Fernández-Dueñas
- Unitat de Farmacologia, Facultat de Medicina i Ciències de la Salut, Institut de Neurociències, Universitat de Barcelona, L’Hospitalet de Llobregat, Catalonia, Spain
- Neuropharmacology and Pain Group, Neuroscience Program, IDIBELL-Institut d’Investigació Biomèdica de Bellvitge, L’Hospitalet de Llobregat, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Jordi Bonaventura
- Unitat de Farmacologia, Facultat de Medicina i Ciències de la Salut, Institut de Neurociències, Universitat de Barcelona, L’Hospitalet de Llobregat, Catalonia, Spain
- Neuropharmacology and Pain Group, Neuroscience Program, IDIBELL-Institut d’Investigació Biomèdica de Bellvitge, L’Hospitalet de Llobregat, Catalonia, Spain
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Ma X, Zhu T, Ke J. Progress in animal models of trigeminal neuralgia. Arch Oral Biol 2023; 154:105765. [PMID: 37480619 DOI: 10.1016/j.archoralbio.2023.105765] [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: 01/12/2023] [Revised: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/24/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This review aims to systematically summarize the methods of establishing various models of trigeminal neuralgia (TN), the scope of application, and current animals used in TN research and the corresponding pain measurements, hoping to provide valuable reference for researchers to select appropriate TN animal models and make contributions to the research of pathophysiology and management of the disease. DESIGN The related literatures of TN were searched through PubMed database using different combinations of the following terms and keywords including but not limited: animal models, trigeminal neuralgia, orofacial neuropathic pain. To find the maximum number of eligible articles, no filters were used in the search. The references of eligible studies were analyzed and reviewed comprehensively. RESULTS This study summarized the current animal models of TN, categorized them into the following groups: chemical induction, photochemical induction, surgery and genetic engineering, and introduced various measurement methods to evaluate animal pain behaviors. CONCLUSIONS Although a variety of methods are used to establish disease models, there is no ideal TN model that can reflect all the characteristics of the disease. Therefore, there is still a need to develop more novel animal models in order to further study the etiology, pathological mechanism and potential treatment of TN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaohan Ma
- The State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Basic Science of Stomatology (Hubei-MOST) & Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, China; Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Trauma and Temporomandibular Joint Surgery, Hubei-MOST KLOS & KLOBM, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, China
| | - Taomin Zhu
- The State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Basic Science of Stomatology (Hubei-MOST) & Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, China; Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Trauma and Temporomandibular Joint Surgery, Hubei-MOST KLOS & KLOBM, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, China
| | - Jin Ke
- The State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Basic Science of Stomatology (Hubei-MOST) & Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, China; Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Trauma and Temporomandibular Joint Surgery, Hubei-MOST KLOS & KLOBM, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, China.
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17
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Su N, Cai P, Dou Z, Yin X, Xu H, He J, Li Z, Li C. Brain nuclei and neural circuits in neuropathic pain and brain modulation mechanisms of acupuncture: a review on animal-based experimental research. Front Neurosci 2023; 17:1243231. [PMID: 37712096 PMCID: PMC10498311 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1243231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuropathic pain (NP) is known to be associated with abnormal changes in specific brain regions, but the complex neural network behind it is vast and complex and lacks a systematic summary. With the help of various animal models of NP, a literature search on NP brain regions and circuits revealed that the related brain nuclei included the periaqueductal gray (PAG), lateral habenula (LHb), medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC), and anterior cingulate cortex (ACC); the related brain circuits included the PAG-LHb and mPFC-ACC. Moreover, acupuncture and injurious information can affect different brain regions and influence brain functions via multiple aspects to play an analgesic role and improve synaptic plasticity by regulating the morphology and structure of brain synapses and the expression of synapse-related proteins; maintain the balance of excitatory and inhibitory neurons by regulating the secretion of glutamate, γ-aminobutyric acid, 5-hydroxytryptamine, and other neurotransmitters and receptors in the brain tissues; inhibit the overactivation of glial cells and reduce the release of pro-inflammatory mediators such as interleukins to reduce neuroinflammation in brain regions; maintain homeostasis of glucose metabolism and regulate the metabolic connections in the brain; and play a role in analgesia through the mediation of signaling pathways and signal transduction molecules. These factors help to deepen the understanding of NP brain circuits and the brain mechanisms of acupuncture analgesia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na Su
- First Clinical Medicine College, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Pingping Cai
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Jinan, China
| | - Zhiqiang Dou
- College of Acupuncture and Moxibustion and Tuina, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Xiaoxue Yin
- Department of Science and Education, Shandong Academy of Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Hongmin Xu
- Department of Gynecology, Laiwu Hospital of Traditional Chinese, Jinan, China
| | - Jing He
- First Clinical Medicine College, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Zhaofeng Li
- College of Acupuncture and Moxibustion and Tuina, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
- International Office, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Changzhong Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shenzhen Hospital, Peking University, Shenzhen, China
- Department of Gynecology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Jinan, China
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Wang XY, Jia WB, Xu X, Chen R, Wang LB, Su XJ, Xu PF, Liu XQ, Wen J, Song XY, Liu YY, Zhang Z, Liu XF, Zhang Y. A glutamatergic DRN-VTA pathway modulates neuropathic pain and comorbid anhedonia-like behavior in mice. Nat Commun 2023; 14:5124. [PMID: 37612268 PMCID: PMC10447530 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-40860-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic pain causes both physical suffering and comorbid mental symptoms such as anhedonia. However, the neural circuits and molecular mechanisms underlying these maladaptive behaviors remain elusive. Here using a mouse model, we report a pathway from vesicular glutamate transporter 3 neurons in the dorsal raphe nucleus to dopamine neurons in the ventral tegmental area (VGluT3DRN→DAVTA) wherein population-level activity in response to innocuous mechanical stimuli and sucrose consumption is inhibited by chronic neuropathic pain. Mechanistically, neuropathic pain dampens VGluT3DRN → DAVTA glutamatergic transmission and DAVTA neural excitability. VGluT3DRN → DAVTA activation alleviates neuropathic pain and comorbid anhedonia-like behavior (CAB) by releasing glutamate, which subsequently promotes DA release in the nucleus accumbens medial shell (NAcMed) and produces analgesic and anti-anhedonia effects via D2 and D1 receptors, respectively. In addition, VGluT3DRN → DAVTA inhibition produces pain-like reflexive hypersensitivity and anhedonia-like behavior in intact mice. These findings reveal a crucial role for VGluT3DRN → DAVTA → D2/D1NAcMed pathway in establishing and modulating chronic pain and CAB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin-Yue Wang
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, 230001, Hefei, China
| | - Wen-Bin Jia
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, 230001, Hefei, China
| | - Xiang Xu
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, 230001, Hefei, China
| | - Rui Chen
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, 230001, Hefei, China
| | - Liang-Biao Wang
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, 230001, Hefei, China
| | - Xiao-Jing Su
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, 230001, Hefei, China
| | - Peng-Fei Xu
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, 230001, Hefei, China
| | - Xiao-Qing Liu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, 230027, Hefei, China
| | - Jie Wen
- Department of Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, 230001, Hefei, China
| | - Xiao-Yuan Song
- Hefei National Research Center for Physical Sciences at the Microscale, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, 230026, Hefei, China
| | - Yuan-Yuan Liu
- Somatosensation and Pain Unit, National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR), National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Zhi Zhang
- Hefei National Research Center for Physical Sciences at the Microscale, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, 230026, Hefei, China.
| | - Xin-Feng Liu
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, 230001, Hefei, China.
| | - Yan Zhang
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, 230001, Hefei, China.
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Chen N, Wu X, Tu M, Xiong S, Jin J, Qu S, Pei S, Fang J, Shao X. Optimizing Treatment for Major Depressive Disorder in Adolescents: The Impact of Intradermal Acupuncture - A Randomized Controlled Trial Protocol. Neuropsychiatr Dis Treat 2023; 19:1819-1832. [PMID: 37641586 PMCID: PMC10460602 DOI: 10.2147/ndt.s420489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Major depressive disorder (MDD) exhibits a pronounced occurrence among adolescents, aligning closely with the lifetime prevalence rate of 16.6% observed in adults. It is difficult to treat and prone to recurrence. Acupuncture has shown potential in enhancing treatment effectiveness. Nonetheless, there is a lack of research on the use of intradermal acupuncture (IA) in treating adolescent MDD. Methods This study is a double-blind, randomized controlled trial. A cohort of 120 participants will be assigned randomly to three distinct groups, namely a Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)-only group, a sham intradermal acupuncture combined with SSRIs (SIA) group, and an active intradermal acupuncture combined with SSRIs (AIA) group. Hamilton Depression Rating Scale will serve as the primary outcome, while Patient Health Questionnaire-9, Self-Rating Depression Scale, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, and Short Form 36 Questionnaire will serve as secondary outcomes in assessing the amelioration of depressive symptoms in patients. These data will be analyzed using SPSS26.0 software. Results We will assess the efficacy and safety of IA for MDD using commonly employed clinical psychiatric scales. Conclusion The efficacy of IA in treating adolescent MDD may be demonstrated in this study, suggesting its potential for optimizing MDD treatment schemes. Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT05832619 (April 27, 2023).
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Affiliation(s)
- Nisang Chen
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Department of Neurobiology and Acupuncture Research, The Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiaoting Wu
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Department of Neurobiology and Acupuncture Research, The Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Mingqi Tu
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Department of Neurobiology and Acupuncture Research, The Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Sangsang Xiong
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Department of Neurobiology and Acupuncture Research, The Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Junyan Jin
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Department of Neurobiology and Acupuncture Research, The Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Siying Qu
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Department of Neurobiology and Acupuncture Research, The Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Shuangyi Pei
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Department of Neurobiology and Acupuncture Research, The Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, People’s Republic of China
- Key Laboratory for Research of Acupuncture Treatment and Transformation of Emotional Diseases, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jianqiao Fang
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Department of Neurobiology and Acupuncture Research, The Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, People’s Republic of China
- Key Laboratory for Research of Acupuncture Treatment and Transformation of Emotional Diseases, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiaomei Shao
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Department of Neurobiology and Acupuncture Research, The Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, People’s Republic of China
- Key Laboratory for Research of Acupuncture Treatment and Transformation of Emotional Diseases, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, People’s Republic of China
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20
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De Preter CC, Heinricher MM. Direct and Indirect Nociceptive Input from the Trigeminal Dorsal Horn to Pain-Modulating Neurons in the Rostral Ventromedial Medulla. J Neurosci 2023; 43:5779-5791. [PMID: 37487738 PMCID: PMC10423049 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.0680-23.2023] [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: 04/16/2023] [Revised: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 07/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The brain is able to amplify or suppress nociceptive signals by means of descending projections to the spinal and trigeminal dorsal horns from the rostral ventromedial medulla (RVM). Two physiologically defined cell classes within RVM, "ON-cells" and "OFF-cells," respectively facilitate and inhibit nociceptive transmission. However, sensory pathways through which nociceptive input drives changes in RVM cell activity are only now being defined. We recently showed that indirect inputs from the dorsal horn via the parabrachial complex (PB) convey nociceptive information to RVM. The purpose of the present study was to determine whether there are also direct dorsal horn inputs to RVM pain-modulating neurons. We focused on the trigeminal dorsal horn, which conveys sensory input from the face and head, and used a combination of single-cell recording with optogenetic activation and inhibition of projections to RVM and PB from the trigeminal interpolaris-caudalis transition zone (Vi/Vc) in male and female rats. We determined that a direct projection from ventral Vi/Vc to RVM carries nociceptive information to RVM pain-modulating neurons. This projection included a GABAergic component, which could contribute to nociceptive inhibition of OFF-cells. This approach also revealed a parallel, indirect, relay of trigeminal information to RVM via PB. Activation of the indirect pathway through PB produced a more sustained response in RVM compared with activation of the direct projection from Vi/Vc. These data demonstrate that a direct trigeminal output conveys nociceptive information to RVM pain-modulating neurons with a parallel indirect pathway through the parabrachial complex.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Rostral ventromedial medulla (RVM) pain-modulating neurons respond to noxious stimulation, which implies that they receive input from pain-transmission circuits. However, the traditional view has been that there is no direct input to RVM pain-modulating neurons from the dorsal horn, and that nociceptive information is carried by indirect pathways. Indeed, we recently showed that noxious information can reach RVM pain-modulating neurons via the parabrachial complex (PB). Using in vivo electrophysiology and optogenetics, the present study identified a direct relay of nociceptive information from the trigeminal dorsal horn to physiologically identified pain-modulating neurons in RVM. Combined tracing and electrophysiology data revealed that the direct projection includes GABAergic neurons. Direct and indirect pathways may play distinct functional roles in recruiting pain-modulating neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caitlynn C De Preter
- Department of Behavioral Neuroscience, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon 97239
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon 97239
| | - Mary M Heinricher
- Department of Behavioral Neuroscience, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon 97239
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon 97239
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21
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Zhang WW, Chen T, Li SY, Wang XY, Liu WB, Wang YQ, Mi WL, Mao-Ying QL, Wang YQ, Chu YX. Tachykinin receptor 3 in the lateral habenula alleviates pain and anxiety comorbidity in mice. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1049739. [PMID: 36756128 PMCID: PMC9900122 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1049739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The coexistence of chronic pain and anxiety is a common clinical phenomenon. Here, the role of tachykinin receptor 3 (NK3R) in the lateral habenula (LHb) in trigeminal neuralgia and in pain-associated anxiety was systematically investigated. First, electrophysiological recording showed that bilateral LHb neurons are hyperactive in a mouse model of trigeminal neuralgia made by partial transection of the infraorbital nerve (pT-ION). Chemicogenetic activation of bilateral LHb glutamatergic neurons in naive mice induced orofacial allodynia and anxiety-like behaviors, and pharmacological activation of NK3R in the LHb attenuated allodynia and anxiety-like behaviors induced by pT-ION. Electrophysiological recording showed that pharmacological activation of NK3R suppressed the abnormal excitation of LHb neurons. In parallel, pharmacological inhibition of NK3R induced orofacial allodynia and anxiety-like behavior in naive mice. The electrophysiological recording showed that pharmacological inhibition of NK3R activates LHb neurons. Neurokinin B (NKB) is an endogenous high-affinity ligand of NK3R, which binds NK3R and activates it to perform physiological functions, and further neuron projection tracing showed that the front section of the periaqueductal gray (fPAG) projects NKB-positive nerve fibers to the LHb. Optogenetics combined with electrophysiology recordings characterize the functional connections in this fPAG NKB → LHb pathway. In addition, electrophysiological recording showed that NKB-positive neurons in the fPAG were more active than NKB-negative neurons in pT-ION mice. Finally, inhibition of NKB release from the fPAG reversed the analgesic and anxiolytic effects of LHb Tacr3 overexpression in pT-ION mice, indicating that fPAG NKB → LHb regulates orofacial allodynia and pain-induced anxious behaviors. These findings for NK3R suggest the cellular mechanism behind pT-ION in the LHb and suggest that the fPAG NKB → LHb circuit is involved in pain and anxiety comorbidity. This previously unrecognized pathway might provide a potential approach for relieving the pain and anxiety associated with trigeminal neuralgia by targeting NK3R.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Wen Zhang
- Department of Integrative Medicine and Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Institutes of Integrative Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Teng Chen
- Department of Integrative Medicine and Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Institutes of Integrative Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Shi-Yi Li
- Department of Integrative Medicine and Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Institutes of Integrative Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xin-Yue Wang
- Department of Integrative Medicine and Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Institutes of Integrative Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wen-Bo Liu
- Department of Integrative Medicine and Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Institutes of Integrative Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yu-Quan Wang
- Department of Integrative Medicine and Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Institutes of Integrative Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wen-Li Mi
- Department of Integrative Medicine and Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Institutes of Integrative Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Acupuncture Mechanism and Acupoint Function, Institute of Acupuncture Research, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qi-Liang Mao-Ying
- Department of Integrative Medicine and Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Institutes of Integrative Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Acupuncture Mechanism and Acupoint Function, Institute of Acupuncture Research, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yan-Qing Wang
- Department of Integrative Medicine and Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Institutes of Integrative Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Acupuncture Mechanism and Acupoint Function, Institute of Acupuncture Research, Fudan University, Shanghai, China,State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China,*Correspondence: Yu-Xia Chu, ; Yan-Qing Wang,
| | - Yu-Xia Chu
- Department of Integrative Medicine and Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Institutes of Integrative Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Acupuncture Mechanism and Acupoint Function, Institute of Acupuncture Research, Fudan University, Shanghai, China,*Correspondence: Yu-Xia Chu, ; Yan-Qing Wang,
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22
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Shen Z, Li W, Chang W, Yue N, Yu J. Sex differences in chronic pain-induced mental disorders: Mechanisms of cerebral circuitry. Front Mol Neurosci 2023; 16:1102808. [PMID: 36891517 PMCID: PMC9986270 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2023.1102808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2022] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Mental disorders such as anxiety and depression induced by chronic pain are common in clinical practice, and there are significant sex differences in their epidemiology. However, the circuit mechanism of this difference has not been fully studied, as preclinical studies have traditionally excluded female rodents. Recently, this oversight has begun to be resolved and studies including male and female rodents are revealing sex differences in the neurobiological processes behind mental disorder features. This paper reviews the structural functions involved in the injury perception circuit and advanced emotional cortex circuit. In addition, we also summarize the latest breakthroughs and insights into sex differences in neuromodulation through endogenous dopamine, 5-hydroxytryptamine, GABAergic inhibition, norepinephrine, and peptide pathways like oxytocin, as well as their receptors. By comparing sex differences, we hope to identify new therapeutic targets to offer safer and more effective treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zuqi Shen
- Department of Integrative Medicine and Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wei Li
- Department of Integrative Medicine and Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Weiqi Chang
- Department of Integrative Medicine and Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Na Yue
- Weifang Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Weifang, China
| | - Jin Yu
- Department of Integrative Medicine and Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Acupuncture Mechanism and Acupoint Function, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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23
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Li L, Su H, Yang Y, Yang P, Zhang X, Su S. Screening key genes related to neuropathic pain-induced depression through an integrative bioinformatics analysis. ANNALS OF TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE 2022; 10:1348. [PMID: 36660683 PMCID: PMC9843390 DOI: 10.21037/atm-22-5820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Background Neuropathic pain (NP) is often accompanied by sleep disorders, anxiety, depression and other complications, and the pathogenesis is still unclear. Some drugs can relieve patients' pain, but the overall effect is not good. We screened for the key genes related to NP-induced depression based on bioinformatics. Methods The dataset of GSE92718 was obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus database, data mining was conducted based on R language, the genes modules were screened by weighted correlation network analysis, Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment analysis and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis were performed, a protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed in the STRING database, and hub genes were screened according to degree value. Results Seven modules were obtained and built to identify the relationships between the NP-induced depression and the modules, weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) was used to identify gene modules closely related to the experimental group. The GO annotations of depression-related genes mainly enriched in protein polyubiquitination, regulation of chromosome organization, mitochondrial matrix, mitochondrial protein-containing complex, etc. KEGG enrichment analysis results were: Alzheimer's disease, Huntington's disease, ribosome, thermogenesis, prion disease, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, diabetic cardiomyopathy, oxidative phosphorylation, retrograde endocannabinoid signaling, 2-oxocarboxylic acid metabolism. PPI network analysis showed that Polr2f, Rps13, Mrpl2, Mrpl40, Mrpl34, and Ndufs8 were more highly expressed in NP-induced depression. Functional analysis of key genes showed that these genes were related to mitochondrial translation termination, respiratory chain complex I, mitochondrial, mRNA Splicing (minor pathway), and of rRNA processing in the nucleolus and cytosol (major pathway). Conclusions The key genes of depression induced by NP are Polr2f, Rps13, Mrpl2, Mrpl40, Mrpl34, and Ndufs8.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling Li
- Prevention Center of Traditional Chinese Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning, China
| | - Hong Su
- Graduate School, Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning, China
| | - Yang Yang
- Department of Obstetrics, The People’s Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Nanning, China
| | - Pu Yang
- Graduate School, Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning, China
| | - Xi Zhang
- Department of Acupuncture, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning, China
| | - Shengyong Su
- Department of Acupuncture, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning, China
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24
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An NTS-CeA projection modulates depression-like behaviors in a mouse model of chronic pain. Neurobiol Dis 2022; 174:105893. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2022.105893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2022] [Revised: 09/28/2022] [Accepted: 10/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
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25
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The Spinal-Parabrachial-Mesencephalic Circuit: A Possible Explanation of How Pain Leads to Emotional Disorders. Neurosci Bull 2022; 38:456-458. [PMID: 35113329 PMCID: PMC9068842 DOI: 10.1007/s12264-022-00823-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2021] [Accepted: 12/03/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022] Open
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