1
|
Coelho A, Lima-Bastos S, Gobira P, Lisboa S. Endocannabinoid signaling and epigenetics modifications in the neurobiology of stress-related disorders. Neuronal Signal 2023; 7:NS20220034. [PMID: 37520658 PMCID: PMC10372471 DOI: 10.1042/ns20220034] [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: 01/26/2023] [Revised: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Stress exposure is associated with psychiatric conditions, such as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). It is also a vulnerability factor to developing or reinstating substance use disorder. Stress causes several changes in the neuro-immune-endocrine axis, potentially resulting in prolonged dysfunction and diseases. Changes in several transmitters, including serotonin, dopamine, glutamate, gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), glucocorticoids, and cytokines, are associated with psychiatric disorders or behavioral alterations in preclinical studies. Complex and interacting mechanisms make it very difficult to understand the physiopathology of psychiatry conditions; therefore, studying regulatory mechanisms that impact these alterations is a good approach. In the last decades, the impact of stress on biology through epigenetic markers, which directly impact gene expression, is under intense investigation; these mechanisms are associated with behavioral alterations in animal models after stress or drug exposure, for example. The endocannabinoid (eCB) system modulates stress response, reward circuits, and other physiological functions, including hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis activation and immune response. eCBs, for example, act retrogradely at presynaptic neurons, limiting the release of neurotransmitters, a mechanism implicated in the antidepressant and anxiolytic effects after stress. Epigenetic mechanisms can impact the expression of eCB system molecules, which in turn can regulate epigenetic mechanisms. This review will present evidence of how the eCB system and epigenetic mechanisms interact and the consequences of this interaction in modulating behavioral changes after stress exposure in preclinical studies or psychiatric conditions. Moreover, evidence that correlates the involvement of the eCB system and epigenetic mechanisms in drug abuse contexts will be discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Arthur A. Coelho
- Department of Pharmacology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Brazil
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Sávio Lima-Bastos
- Department of Pharmacology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Brazil
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Pedro H. Gobira
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Sabrina F. Lisboa
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Hen-Shoval D, Moshe L, Indig-Naimer T, Mechoulam R, Shoval G, Zalsman G, Kogan NM, Weller A. Cannabinoid Receptor 2 Blockade Prevents Anti-Depressive-like Effect of Cannabidiol Acid Methyl Ester in Female WKY Rats. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24043828. [PMID: 36835237 PMCID: PMC9958868 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24043828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2022] [Revised: 02/05/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The pathophysiology of major depressive disorder (MDD) is diverse and multi-factorial, yet treatment strategies remain limited. While women are twice as likely to develop the disorder as men, many animal model studies of antidepressant response rely solely on male subjects. The endocannabinoid system has been linked to depression in clinical and pre-clinical studies. Cannabidiolic Acid-Methyl Ester (CBDA-ME, EPM-301) demonstrated anti-depressive-like effects in male rats. Here, we explored acute effects of CBDA-ME and some possible mediating mechanisms, using a depressive-like genetic animal model, the Wistar-Kyoto (WKY) rat. In Experiment 1, Female WKY rats underwent the Forced swim test (FST) following acute CBDA-ME oral ingestion (1/5/10 mg/kg). In Experiment 2, Male and female WKY rats underwent the FST after injection of CB1 (AM-251) and CB2 (AM-630) receptor antagonists 30 min before acute CBDA-ME ingestion (1 mg/kg, males; 5 mg/kg, females). Serum levels of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF), numerous endocannabinoids and hippocampal Fatty Acid Amide Hydrolase (FAAH) levels were assessed. Results indicate that females required higher doses of CBDA-ME (5 and 10 mg/kg) to induce an anti-depressive-like effect in the FST. AM-630 blocked the antidepressant-like effect in females, but not in males. The effect of CBDA-ME in females was accompanied by elevated serum BDNF and some endocannabinoids and low hippocampal expression of FAAH. This study shows a sexually diverse behavioral anti-depressive response to CBDA-ME and possible underlying mechanisms in females, supporting its potential use for treating MDD and related disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Danielle Hen-Shoval
- Psychology Department, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan 5290002, Israel
- Gonda Brain Research Center, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan 5290002, Israel
- Correspondence: (D.H.-S.); (N.M.K.)
| | - Lital Moshe
- Psychology Department, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan 5290002, Israel
- Gonda Brain Research Center, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan 5290002, Israel
| | - Talia Indig-Naimer
- Gonda Brain Research Center, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan 5290002, Israel
| | - Raphael Mechoulam
- Institute for Drug Research, Medical Faculty, Hebrew University, Jerusalem 9112002, Israel
| | - Gal Shoval
- Geha Mental Health Center, Petah Tiqva 4910002, Israel
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel
- Princeton Neuroscience Institute, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ 08540, USA
| | - Gil Zalsman
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel
- Princeton Neuroscience Institute, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ 08540, USA
- Division of Molecular Imaging and Neuropathology, Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Natalya M. Kogan
- Institute of Personalized and Translational Medicine, Molecular Biology, Ariel University, Ariel 4070000, Israel
- Correspondence: (D.H.-S.); (N.M.K.)
| | - Aron Weller
- Psychology Department, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan 5290002, Israel
- Gonda Brain Research Center, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan 5290002, Israel
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Upregulation of the mGlu5 receptor and COX-2 protein in the mouse brain after imipramine and NS398, searching for mechanisms of regulation. Neurochem Int 2021; 150:105193. [PMID: 34571049 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuint.2021.105193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2021] [Revised: 09/20/2021] [Accepted: 09/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Imipramine belongs to a group of tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs). It has been also documented that its antidepressant activity connects with the modulation of cytosolic phospholipase A2 (cPLA2) and arachidonic acid (AA) turnover. Through this mechanism, imipramine can indirectly modify glutamate (Glu) transmission. Additionally, it has been shown that chronic treatment with imipramine results in the upregulation of the metabotropic glutamate receptor subtype 5 (mGlu5 receptor) in the hippocampus of rats. Our previous study revealed that manipulation of the AA pathway via inhibition of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) by selective COX-2 inhibitor (NS398) could effectively modulate the behavior of mice treated with imipramine. Here, we hypothesized that COX-2 inhibition could similarly to imipramine influence mGlu5 receptor, and thus NS398 can modulate the effect of imipramine on Glu. Moreover, such regulation changes should correspond with alterations in neurotransmission. Increased cPLA activity after imipramine administration may change the activity of the AA pathway and the endocannabinoid metabolism, e.g., 2-Arachidonyl-glycerol (2-AG). To verify the idea, mGlu5 receptor level was investigated in the hippocampus (HC) and prefrontal cortex (PFC) of mice treated for 7 or 14 days with imipramine and/or COX-2 inhibitor: NS398. Western blot and PCR analyses were conducted. Moreover, the excitatory (Glu) and inhibitory (gamma-aminobutyric acid; GABA) neurotransmitters were measured using HPLC and 2-AG using ELISA. A time-dependent change in mGlu5 receptor and COX-2 protein level, COX-2 expression, and 2-AG level in the PFC after imipramine administration was found. Up-regulation of mGlu5 receptor after NS398 was found in HC and PFC. A structure-dependent shift between excitatory vs. inhibitory transmission was detected when NS398 and imipramine were co-administered.
Collapse
|
4
|
Adhikari N, Jha T, Ghosh B. Dissecting Histone Deacetylase 3 in Multiple Disease Conditions: Selective Inhibition as a Promising Therapeutic Strategy. J Med Chem 2021; 64:8827-8869. [PMID: 34161101 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.0c01676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The acetylation of histone and non-histone proteins has been implicated in several disease states. Modulation of such epigenetic modifications has therefore made histone deacetylases (HDACs) important drug targets. HDAC3, among various class I HDACs, has been signified as a potentially validated target in multiple diseases, namely, cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular disorders, autoimmune diseases, inflammatory diseases, parasitic infections, and HIV. However, only a handful of HDAC3-selective inhibitors have been reported in spite of continuous efforts in design and development of HDAC3-selective inhibitors. In this Perspective, the roles of HDAC3 in various diseases as well as numerous potent and HDAC3-selective inhibitors have been discussed in detail. It will surely open up a new vista in the discovery of newer, more effective, and more selective HDAC3 inhibitors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nilanjan Adhikari
- Natural Science Laboratory, Division of Medicinal and Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Jadavpur University, P.O. Box 17020, Kolkata, 700032 West Bengal, India
| | - Tarun Jha
- Natural Science Laboratory, Division of Medicinal and Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Jadavpur University, P.O. Box 17020, Kolkata, 700032 West Bengal, India
| | - Balaram Ghosh
- Epigenetic Research Laboratory, Department of Pharmacy, BITS-Pilani, Hyderabad Campus, Shamirpet, Hyderabad 500078, India
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Dos Santos FM, Pflüger PF, Lazzarotto L, Uczay M, de Aguida WR, da Silva LS, Boaretto FBM, de Sousa JT, Picada JN, da Silva Torres IL, Pereira P. Gamma-Decanolactone Alters the Expression of GluN2B, A 1 Receptors, and COX-2 and Reduces DNA Damage in the PTZ-Induced Seizure Model After Subchronic Treatment in Mice. Neurochem Res 2021; 46:2066-2078. [PMID: 34019198 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-021-03345-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2020] [Revised: 04/05/2021] [Accepted: 05/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Gamma-decanolactone (GD) has been shown to reduce epileptic behavior in different models, inflammatory decreasing, oxidative stress, and genotoxic parameters. This study assessed the GD effect on the pentylenetetrazole (PTZ) model after acute and subchronic treatment. We evaluated the expression of the inflammatory marker cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), GluN2B, a subunit of the NMDA glutamate receptor, adenosine A1 receptor, and GD genotoxicity and mutagenicity. Male and female mice were treated with GD (300 mg/kg) for 12 days. On the tenth day, they were tested in the Hot Plate test. On the thirteenth day, all animals received PTZ (90 mg/kg), and epileptic behavior PTZ-induced was observed for 30 min. Pregabalin (PGB) (30 mg/kg) was used as a positive control. Samples of the hippocampus and blood were collected for Western Blotting analyses and Comet Assay and bone marrow to the Micronucleus test. Only the acute treatment of GD reduced the seizure occurrence and increased the latency to the first stage 3 seizures. Males treated with GD for 12 days demonstrated a significant increase in the expression of the GluN2B receptor and a decrease in the COX-2 expression. Acute and subchronic treatment with GD and PGB reduced the DNA damage produced by PTZ in males and females. There is no increase in the micronucleus frequency in bone marrow after subchronic treatment. This study suggests that GD, after 12 days, could not reduce PTZ-induced seizures, but it has been shown to protect against DNA damage, reduce COX-2 and increase GluN2B expression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fernanda Marcelia Dos Santos
- Laboratory of Neuropharmacology and Preclinical Toxicology, Health Basic Sciences Institute, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Pricila Fernandes Pflüger
- Laboratory of Neuropharmacology and Preclinical Toxicology, Health Basic Sciences Institute, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Leticia Lazzarotto
- Laboratory of Neuropharmacology and Preclinical Toxicology, Health Basic Sciences Institute, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Mariana Uczay
- Laboratory of Neuropharmacology and Preclinical Toxicology, Health Basic Sciences Institute, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Wesley Roberto de Aguida
- Laboratory of Neuropharmacology and Preclinical Toxicology, Health Basic Sciences Institute, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Lisiane Santos da Silva
- Laboratory of Pain Pharmacology and Neuromodulation: Pre-Clinical Research. Postgraduate Program in Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | | | | | | | - Iraci Lucena da Silva Torres
- Laboratory of Pain Pharmacology and Neuromodulation: Pre-Clinical Research. Postgraduate Program in Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Patrícia Pereira
- Laboratory of Neuropharmacology and Preclinical Toxicology, Health Basic Sciences Institute, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.
- Laboratory of Neuropharmacology and Preclinical Toxicology, Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Basic Health Sciences, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Sarmento Leite 500/305, Porto Alegre, RS, CEP 90050-170, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Abstract
IMPACT STATEMENT Brain development and degeneration are highly complex processes that are regulated by a large number of molecules and signaling pathways the identities of which are being unraveled. Accumulating evidence points to histone deacetylases and epigenetic mechanisms as being important regulators of these processes. In this review, we describe that histone deacetylase-3 (HDAC3) is a particularly crucial regulator of both neurodevelopment and neurodegeneration. In addition, HDAC3 regulates memory formation, synaptic plasticity, and the cognitive impairment associated with normal aging. Understanding how HDAC3 functions contributes to the normal development and functioning of the brain while also promoting neurodegeneration could lead to the development of therapeutic approaches for neurodevelopmental, neuropsychiatric, and neurodegenerative disorders.
Collapse
|
7
|
Snyder MA, Gao WJ. NMDA receptor hypofunction for schizophrenia revisited: Perspectives from epigenetic mechanisms. Schizophr Res 2020; 217:60-70. [PMID: 30979669 PMCID: PMC7258307 DOI: 10.1016/j.schres.2019.03.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2018] [Revised: 03/08/2019] [Accepted: 03/11/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Schizophrenia (SZ) is a neurodevelopmental disorder with cognitive deficits manifesting during early stages of the disease. Evidence suggests that genetic factors in combination with environmental insults lead to complex changes to glutamatergic, GABAergic, and dopaminergic systems. In particular, the N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor (NMDAR), a major glutamate receptor subtype, is implicated in both the disease progression and symptoms of SZ. NMDARs are critical for synaptic plasticity and cortical maturation, as well as learning and memory processes. In fact, any deviation from normal NMDAR expression and function can have devastating consequences. Surprisingly, there is little evidence from human patients that direct mutations of NMDAR genes contribute to SZ. One intriguing hypothesis is that epigenetic changes, which could result from early insults, alter protein expression and contribute to the NMDAR hypofunction found in SZ. Epigenetics is referred to as modifications that alter gene transcription without changing the DNA sequence itself. In this review, we first discuss how epigenetic changes to NMDAR genes could contribute to NMDAR hypofunction. We then explore how NMDAR hypofunction may contribute to epigenetic changes in other proteins or genes that lead to synaptic dysfunction and symptoms in SZ. We argue that NMDAR hypofunction occurs in early stage of the disease, and it may consequentially initiate GABA and dopamine deficits. Therefore, targeting NMDAR dysfunction during the early stages would be a promising avenue for prevention and therapeutic intervention of cognitive and social deficits that remain untreatable. Finally, we discuss potential questions regarding the epigenetic of SZ and future directions for research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Melissa A. Snyder
- Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada, K1H 8M5,Correspondence: Wen-Jun Gao, M.D., Ph.D., Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, Drexel University College of Medicine, 2900 Queen Lane, Philadelphia, PA 19129, Phone: (215) 991-8907, Fax: (215) 843-9802, ; Melissa A. Snyder, Ph.D.,
| | - Wen-Jun Gao
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19129, United States of America.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Schicknick H, Henschke JU, Budinger E, Ohl FW, Gundelfinger ED, Tischmeyer W. β-adrenergic modulation of discrimination learning and memory in the auditory cortex. Eur J Neurosci 2019; 50:3141-3163. [PMID: 31162753 PMCID: PMC6900137 DOI: 10.1111/ejn.14480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2018] [Revised: 05/27/2019] [Accepted: 05/31/2019] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Despite vast literature on catecholaminergic neuromodulation of auditory cortex functioning in general, knowledge about its role for long‐term memory formation is scarce. Our previous pharmacological studies on cortex‐dependent frequency‐modulated tone‐sweep discrimination learning of Mongolian gerbils showed that auditory‐cortical D1/5‐dopamine receptor activity facilitates memory consolidation and anterograde memory formation. Considering overlapping functions of D1/5‐dopamine receptors and β‐adrenoceptors, we hypothesised a role of β‐adrenergic signalling in the auditory cortex for sweep discrimination learning and memory. Supporting this hypothesis, the β1/2‐adrenoceptor antagonist propranolol bilaterally applied to the gerbil auditory cortex after task acquisition prevented the discrimination increment that was normally monitored 1 day later. The increment in the total number of hurdle crossings performed in response to the sweeps per se was normal. Propranolol infusion after the seventh training session suppressed the previously established sweep discrimination. The suppressive effect required antagonist injection in a narrow post‐session time window. When applied to the auditory cortex 1 day before initial conditioning, β1‐adrenoceptor‐antagonising and β1‐adrenoceptor‐stimulating agents retarded and facilitated, respectively, sweep discrimination learning, whereas β2‐selective drugs were ineffective. In contrast, single‐sweep detection learning was normal after propranolol infusion. By immunohistochemistry, β1‐ and β2‐adrenoceptors were identified on the neuropil and somata of pyramidal and non‐pyramidal neurons of the gerbil auditory cortex. The present findings suggest that β‐adrenergic signalling in the auditory cortex has task‐related importance for discrimination learning of complex sounds: as previously shown for D1/5‐dopamine receptor signalling, β‐adrenoceptor activity supports long‐term memory consolidation and reconsolidation; additionally, tonic input through β1‐adrenoceptors may control mechanisms permissive for memory acquisition.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Horst Schicknick
- Special Lab Molecular Biological Techniques, Leibniz Institute for Neurobiology, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Julia U Henschke
- Department Systems Physiology of Learning, Leibniz Institute for Neurobiology, Magdeburg, Germany.,Institute of Cognitive Neurology and Dementia Research, Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Eike Budinger
- Department Systems Physiology of Learning, Leibniz Institute for Neurobiology, Magdeburg, Germany.,Center for Behavioral Brain Sciences, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Frank W Ohl
- Department Systems Physiology of Learning, Leibniz Institute for Neurobiology, Magdeburg, Germany.,Center for Behavioral Brain Sciences, Magdeburg, Germany.,Institute of Biology, Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Eckart D Gundelfinger
- Center for Behavioral Brain Sciences, Magdeburg, Germany.,Department Neurochemistry and Molecular Biology, Leibniz Institute for Neurobiology, Magdeburg, Germany.,Molecular Neurobiology, Medical Faculty, Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Tischmeyer
- Special Lab Molecular Biological Techniques, Leibniz Institute for Neurobiology, Magdeburg, Germany.,Center for Behavioral Brain Sciences, Magdeburg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Kao ACC, Chan KW, Anthony DC, Lennox BR, Burnet PWJ. Prebiotic reduction of brain histone deacetylase (HDAC) activity and olanzapine-mediated weight gain in rats, are acetate independent. Neuropharmacology 2019; 150:184-191. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2019.02.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2018] [Revised: 02/05/2019] [Accepted: 02/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
|
10
|
Hack LM, Fries GR, Eyre HA, Bousman CA, Singh AB, Quevedo J, John VP, Baune BT, Dunlop BW. Moving pharmacoepigenetics tools for depression toward clinical use. J Affect Disord 2019; 249:336-346. [PMID: 30802699 PMCID: PMC6763314 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2019.02.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2018] [Revised: 02/01/2019] [Accepted: 02/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a leading cause of disability worldwide, and over half of patients do not achieve symptom remission following an initial antidepressant course. Despite evidence implicating a strong genetic basis for the pathophysiology of MDD, there are no adequately validated biomarkers of treatment response routinely used in clinical practice. Pharmacoepigenetics is an emerging field that has the potential to combine both genetic and environmental information into treatment selection and further the goal of precision psychiatry. However, this field is in its infancy compared to the more established pharmacogenetics approaches. METHODS We prepared a narrative review using literature searches of studies in English pertaining to pharmacoepigenetics and treatment of depressive disorders conducted in PubMed, Google Scholar, PsychINFO, and Ovid Medicine from inception through January 2019. We reviewed studies of DNA methylation and histone modifications in both humans and animal models of depression. RESULTS Emerging evidence from human and animal work suggests a key role for epigenetic marks, including DNA methylation and histone modifications, in the prediction of antidepressant response. The challenges of heterogeneity of patient characteristics and loci studied as well as lack of replication that have impacted the field of pharmacogenetics also pose challenges to the development of pharmacoepigenetic tools. Additionally, given the tissue specific nature of epigenetic marks as well as their susceptibility to change in response to environmental factors and aging, pharmacoepigenetic tools face additional challenges to their development. LIMITATIONS This is a narrative and not systematic review of the literature on the pharmacoepigenetics of antidepressant response. We highlight key studies pertaining to pharmacoepigenetics and treatment of depressive disorders in humans and depressive-like behaviors in animal models, regardless of sample size or methodology. While we discuss DNA methylation and histone modifications, we do not cover microRNAs, which have been reviewed elsewhere recently. CONCLUSIONS Utilization of genome-wide approaches and reproducible epigenetic assays, careful selection of the tissue assessed, and integration of genetic and clinical information into pharmacoepigenetic tools will improve the likelihood of developing clinically useful tests.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura M Hack
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, 401 Quarry Road, Palo Alto, CA 94305, USA; Sierra Pacific Mental Illness Research Education and Clinical Centers, VA Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA, USA.
| | - Gabriel R Fries
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth), Houston, TX, USA
| | - Harris A Eyre
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, 401 Quarry Road, Palo Alto, CA 94305, USA; Innovation Institute, Texas Medical Center, Houston, TX, USA; IMPACT SRC, School of Medicine, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia; Department of Psychiatry, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Chad A Bousman
- Departments of Medical Genetics, Psychiatry, Physiology & Pharmacology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Ajeet B Singh
- IMPACT SRC, School of Medicine, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Joao Quevedo
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth), Houston, TX, USA
| | - Vineeth P John
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth), Houston, TX, USA
| | - Bernhard T Baune
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Boadie W Dunlop
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
de Abreu MS, Friend AJ, Demin KA, Amstislavskaya TG, Bao W, Kalueff AV. Zebrafish models: do we have valid paradigms for depression? J Pharmacol Toxicol Methods 2018; 94:16-22. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vascn.2018.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2018] [Revised: 06/12/2018] [Accepted: 07/16/2018] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
|
12
|
Revisiting metaplasticity: The roles of calcineurin and histone deacetylation in unlearning odor preference memory in rat pups. Neurobiol Learn Mem 2018; 154:62-69. [PMID: 29421612 DOI: 10.1016/j.nlm.2018.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2017] [Revised: 01/16/2018] [Accepted: 02/03/2018] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Previous work has shown that 24 h duration odor preference learning, induced by one-trial training, generates a down-regulation of the GluN1 receptor in anterior piriform cortex at 3 h, and results in metaplastic unlearning if a second training trial is given at 3 h. The GluN1 receptor upregulates at 24 h so 24 h spaced training is highly effective in extending memory duration. The present study replicates the piriform cortex unlearning result in the olfactory bulb circuit and further studies the relationship between the initial training strength and its associated metaplastic effect. Intrabulbar infusions that block calcineurin or inhibit histone deacetylation normally produce extended days-long memory. If given during training, they are not associated with GluN1 downregulation at 3 h and do not recruit an unlearning process at that time. The two memory strengthening protocols do not appear to interact, but are also not synergistic. These outcomes argue that it is critical to understand the metaplastic effects of training in order to optimize training protocols in the service of either memory strengthening or of memory weakening.
Collapse
|
13
|
Kubota T. Epigenetic Effect of Environmental Factors on Neurodevelopmenal Disorders. Nihon Eiseigaku Zasshi 2018; 71:200-207. [PMID: 27725423 DOI: 10.1265/jjh.71.200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Epigenetics is an important mechanism of gene regulation that is dependent on the chromatin structure, which is determined by the epigenetic chemical modification of DNA and histone proteins. It is known that the failure of epigenetic mechanisms causes congenital neurodevelopmental disorders (NDs), and that early life exposure to mental stress and endocrine disrupting chemicals, such as phthalates, bisphenol A, and tobacco, can change epigenetic mechanism and gene expression in the brain and cause NDs. Moreover, environmentally induced epigenetic changes are not erased during gametogenesis and are transmitted to subsequent generations, leading to changes in behavior phenotypes. However, epigenetics has a reversible nature because it is based on the addition or removal of chemical residues, and thus the original epigenetic status may be restored. Indeed, several drugs used for mental disorders and NDs restore the epigenetic state and gene expression. Improved epigenetic understanding of NDs will provide important clues for the development of new drugs that take advantage of epigenetic reversibility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Takeo Kubota
- Department of Epigenetic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Yamanashi
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Wang J, Zhang K, Chen X, Liu X, Teng H, Zhao M, Sun Z. Epigenetic Activation of ASCT2 in the Hippocampus Contributes to Depression-Like Behavior by Regulating D-Serine in Mice. Front Mol Neurosci 2017; 10:139. [PMID: 28536503 PMCID: PMC5422558 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2017.00139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2016] [Accepted: 04/21/2017] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The roles of D-serine in depression are raised concerned recently as an intrinsic co-agonist for the NMDA receptor. However, the mechanisms underlying its regulation are not fully elucidated. ASCT2 is a Na+-dependent D-serine transporter. We found that decreased D-serine and increased hippocampal ASCT2 levels correlated with chronic social defeat stress (CSDS) in mice. Lentivirus-mediated shRNA-mediated knockdown of ASCT2 and the administration of exogenous D-serine in the hippocampus alleviated CSDS-induced social avoidance and immobility. In vivo and in vitro experiments revealed that upregulation of ASCT2 expression in CSDS was regulated through histone hyper-acetylation, not DNA methylation in its promoter region. Immunohistochemistry demonstrated the co-localization of ASCT2 and D-serine. Uptake of D-serine by ASCT2 was demonstrated by in vivo and in vitro experiments. Our results indicate that CSDS induces ASCT2 expression through epigenetic activation and decreases hippocampal D-serine levels, leading to social avoidance, and immobility. Thus, targeting D-serine transport represents an attractive new strategy for treating depression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jiesi Wang
- Beijing Institutes of Life Science, Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijing, China.,Key Lab of Mental Health, Institute of Psychology, Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijing, China.,University of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijing, China
| | - Ke Zhang
- Key Lab of Mental Health, Institute of Psychology, Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijing, China.,University of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijing, China
| | - Xiaojuan Chen
- Key Lab of Mental Health, Institute of Psychology, Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijing, China.,University of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijing, China
| | - Xiaoqian Liu
- Key Lab of Mental Health, Institute of Psychology, Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijing, China
| | - Huajing Teng
- Beijing Institutes of Life Science, Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijing, China
| | - Mei Zhao
- Key Lab of Mental Health, Institute of Psychology, Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijing, China.,University of Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijing, China
| | - Zhongsheng Sun
- Beijing Institutes of Life Science, Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijing, China.,Key Lab of Mental Health, Institute of Psychology, Chinese Academy of SciencesBeijing, China.,Institute of Genomic Medicine, Wenzhou Medical CollegeWenzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Understanding epigenetic architecture of suicide neurobiology: A critical perspective. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2016; 72:10-27. [PMID: 27836463 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2016.10.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2016] [Revised: 09/26/2016] [Accepted: 10/31/2016] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Current understanding of environmental cross-talk with genetic makeup is found to be mediated through an epigenetic interface which is associated with prominent reversible and heritable changes at gene expression level. Recent emergence of epigenetic modulation in shaping the genetic information has become a key regulatory factor in answering the underlying complexities associated with several mental disorders. A comprehensive understanding of the pertinent changes in the epigenetic makeup of suicide phenotype exhibits a characteristic signature with the possibility of using it as a biomarker to help predict the risk factors associated with suicide. Within the scope of this current review, the most sought after epigenetic changes of DNA methylation and histone modification are thoroughly scrutinized to understand their close functional association with the broad spectrum of suicide phenotype.
Collapse
|
16
|
Danielewicz J, Trenk A, Hess G. Imipramine ameliorates early life stress-induced alterations in synaptic plasticity in the rat lateral amygdala. Behav Brain Res 2016; 317:319-326. [PMID: 27693266 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2016.09.065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2016] [Revised: 09/27/2016] [Accepted: 09/28/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Long-term potentiation (LTP) and long-term depression (LTD) are two opposite forms of synaptic plasticity at the cortical and thalamic inputs to the lateral amygdala (LA). It has been demonstrated that maternal separation (MS) of rat pups results in alterations in the potential for both pathways to undergo LTP and LTD in adolescence. Imipramine, a prototypic tricyclic antidepressant, has been shown to counteract some detrimental effects of MS on rat behavior, however it is not known whether MS-induced alterations in the potential for bidirectional synaptic plasticity in the LA could be reversed by imipramine treatment. To this end, rat pups were subjected to MS (3h/day) on postnatal days (PNDs) 1-21. On each of PNDs 29-42, male rats previously subjected to MS were injected subcutaneously with imipramine (10mg/kg). Field potentials were recorded ex vivo from slices containing the LA and saturating levels of LTP and LTD were induced. At the thalamic input to the LA, both the maximum LTP and the maximum LTD were reduced in rats subjected to MS when compared to control animals, confirming earlier results. However, these effects were no longer present in rats subjected to MS and later treated with imipramine. At the cortical input in slices prepared from MS-subjected rats, an impairment of the maximum LTP and an enhancement of the maximum LTD were observed. At the cortical input in rats subjected to MS and receiving imipramine treatment, the level of LTD was comparable to control but imipramine did not restore the potential for LTP at this input. These results demonstrate that imipramine fully reverses the effects of MS in the thalamo-amygdalar pathway, however, in the cortico-amygdalar pathway the reversal of the effects of MS by imipramine is partial.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Grzegorz Hess
- Institute of Zoology, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland; Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 31-343 Krakow, Smetna street 12, Poland.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Kubota T. Epigenetic alterations induced by environmental stress associated with metabolic and neurodevelopmental disorders. ENVIRONMENTAL EPIGENETICS 2016; 2:dvw017. [PMID: 29492297 PMCID: PMC5804531 DOI: 10.1093/eep/dvw017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2016] [Revised: 07/14/2016] [Accepted: 07/18/2016] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Epigenetics is a gene regulation mechanism that does not depend on genomic DNA sequences but depends on chemical modification of genomic DNA and histone proteins around which DNA is wrapped. The failure of epigenetic mechanisms is known to cause various congenital disorders. It is also known that the failures of epigenetic mechanisms causes various acquired disorders since epigenetic modifications of the genome (i.e., "epigenome") are more vulnerable to environmental stress, such as malnutrition, environmental chemicals, and mental stress, than the "genome," especially during the early period of life. However, the epigenome has a reversible property since it is based on removable residues on genomic DNA. Thus, environmentally induced epigenomic alterations can be potentially restored. In fact, some medicines, especially for psychiatric diseases, are known to restore an altered epigenome, resulting in the correction of gene expression. Several lines of evidence suggest that environmentally induced epigenomic alterations are not erased completely during gametogenesis, but are transmitted to subsequent generations with disease phenotypes. In accordance with these understandings, I would like to propose the development of epigenomic-based preemptive medicine that consists of the early detection of the developmental origins of diseases using epigenomic signatures and the early intervention that take advantages of the use of epigenomic reversibility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Takeo Kubota
- Department of Epigenetic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Yamanashi, Yamanashi, 409-3898, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Kubota T, Mochizuki K. Epigenetic Effect of Environmental Factors on Autism Spectrum Disorders. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2016; 13:ijerph13050504. [PMID: 27187441 PMCID: PMC4881129 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph13050504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2016] [Revised: 04/23/2016] [Accepted: 05/10/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Both environmental factors and genetic factors are involved in the pathogenesis of autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). Epigenetics, an essential mechanism for gene regulation based on chemical modifications of DNA and histone proteins, is also involved in congenital ASDs. It was recently demonstrated that environmental factors, such as endocrine disrupting chemicals and mental stress in early life, can change epigenetic status and gene expression, and can cause ASDs. Moreover, environmentally induced epigenetic changes are not erased during gametogenesis and are transmitted to subsequent generations, leading to changes in behavior phenotypes. However, epigenetics has a reversible nature since it is based on the addition or removal of chemical residues, and thus the original epigenetic status may be restored. Indeed, several antidepressants and anticonvulsants used for mental disorders including ASDs restore the epigenetic state and gene expression. Therefore, further epigenetic understanding of ASDs is important for the development of new drugs that take advantages of epigenetic reversibility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Takeo Kubota
- Department of Epigenetic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Yamanashi, 1110 Shimokato, Chuo, Yamanashi 409-3898, Japan.
| | - Kazuki Mochizuki
- Department of Local Produce and Food Sciences, Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Yamanashi, 4-4-37 Takeda, Kofu-City, Yamanashi 400-8510, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Chen T, Zhang B, Li G, Chen L, Chen L. Simvastatin enhances NMDA receptor GluN2B expression and phosphorylation of GluN2B and GluN2A through increased histone acetylation and Src signaling in hippocampal CA1 neurons. Neuropharmacology 2016; 107:411-421. [PMID: 27016018 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2016.03.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2015] [Revised: 03/18/2016] [Accepted: 03/21/2016] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Simvastatin (SV) can improve cognitive deficits in Alzheimer's disease patients and mice. Herein, we report that the administration of SV (20 mg/kg) for 5 days in mice (SV-mice) or the treatment of slices with SV (10 μM) for 4 h (SV-slices) could increase the density of NMDA-evoked inward currents (INMDA) in hippocampal CA1 pyramidal cells, which were blocked by farnesol (FOH) that converts farnesyl pyrophosphate (FPP), but not geranylgeraniol (GGOH) that increases geranylgeranylpyrophosphate (GGPP). Sensitivity of INMDA to ifenprodil in SV-mice or SV-slices was significantly increased. The levels of hippocampal GluN2B and GluN2A or Src phosphorylation in SV-mice or SV-slices were higher than controls, which were sensitive to FOH. The Src inhibitor PP2 could inhibit the SV-enhanced phosphorylation of GluN2B and GluN2A and SV-augmented INMDA, but PI3K inhibitor LY294002 did not. The levels of GluN2B mRNA and protein were elevated in SV-mice, which was abolished by FOH, but not by GGOH or PP2. Furthermore, the histone H3K9 and H3K27 acetylation of GluN2B promoter was increased in SV-mice, which was suppressed by FOH rather than GGOH or PP2. In control mice and slices, the reduction of FPP by farnesyl transferase inhibitor could increase the levels of GluN2B expression, the histone H3K9 and H3K27 acetylation and enhance the phosphorylation of GluN2B, GluN2A and Src. The findings indicate that the administration of SV can enhance GluN2B expression and GluN2B and GluN2A phosphorylation leading to augmentation of NMDAR activity through reducing FPP to increase histone acetylation of GluN2B and Src signaling.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tingting Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, China; Department of Physiology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Baofeng Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, China; Department of Physiology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Guoxi Li
- Department of Physiology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Lei Chen
- Department of Physiology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Ling Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, China; Department of Physiology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Chaudhury D, Liu H, Han MH. Neuronal correlates of depression. Cell Mol Life Sci 2015; 72:4825-48. [PMID: 26542802 PMCID: PMC4709015 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-015-2044-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2015] [Revised: 08/27/2015] [Accepted: 09/10/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a common psychiatric disorder effecting approximately 121 million people worldwide and recent reports from the World Health Organization (WHO) suggest that it will be the leading contributor to the global burden of diseases. At present, the most commonly used treatment strategies are still based on the monoamine hypothesis that has been the predominant theory in the last 60 years. Clinical observations show that only a subset of depressed patients exhibits full remission when treated with classical monoamine-based antidepressants together with the fact that patients exhibit multiple symptoms suggest that the pathophysiology leading to mood disorders may differ between patients. Accumulating evidence indicates that depression is a neural circuit disorder and that onset of depression may be located at different regions of the brain involving different transmitter systems and molecular mechanisms. This review synthesises findings from rodent studies from which emerges a role for different, yet interconnected, molecular systems and associated neural circuits to the aetiology of depression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dipesh Chaudhury
- Division of Science, Experimental Research Building, Office 106, New York University Abu Dhabi (NYUAD), Saadiyat Island Campus, P.O. Box 129188, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.
| | - He Liu
- Division of Science, Experimental Research Building, Office 106, New York University Abu Dhabi (NYUAD), Saadiyat Island Campus, P.O. Box 129188, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Ming-Hu Han
- Department of Pharmacology and Systems Therapeutics, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA.
- Department of Neuroscience, Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Guida F, Luongo L, Marmo F, Romano R, Iannotta M, Napolitano F, Belardo C, Marabese I, D'Aniello A, De Gregorio D, Rossi F, Piscitelli F, Lattanzi R, de Bartolomeis A, Usiello A, Di Marzo V, de Novellis V, Maione S. Palmitoylethanolamide reduces pain-related behaviors and restores glutamatergic synapses homeostasis in the medial prefrontal cortex of neuropathic mice. Mol Brain 2015; 8:47. [PMID: 26260027 PMCID: PMC4532244 DOI: 10.1186/s13041-015-0139-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2015] [Accepted: 08/02/2015] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Enhanced supraspinal glutamate levels following nerve injury are associated with pathophysiological mechanisms responsible for neuropathic pain. Chronic pain can interfere with specific brain areas involved in glutamate-dependent neuropsychological processes, such as cognition, memory, and decision-making. The medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) is thought to play a critical role in pain-related depression and anxiety, which are frequent co-morbidities of chronic pain. Using an animal model of spared nerve injury (SNI) of the sciatic nerve, we assess bio-molecular modifications in glutamatergic synapses in the mPFC that underlie neuropathic pain-induced plastic changes at 30 days post-surgery. Moreover, we examine the effects of palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) administration on pain-related behaviours, as well as the cortical biochemical and morphological changes that occur in SNI animals. RESULTS At 1 month, SNI was associated with mechanical and thermal hypersensitivity, as well as depression-like behaviour, cognitive impairments, and obsessive-compulsive activities. Moreover, we observed an overall glutamate synapse modification in the mPFC, characterized by changes in synaptic density proteins and amino acid levels. Finally, with regard to the resolution of pain and depressive-like syndrome in SNI mice, PEA restored the glutamatergic synapse proteins and changes in amino acid release. CONCLUSIONS Given the potential role of the mPFC in pain mechanisms, our findings may provide novel insights into neuropathic pain forebrain processes and indicate PEA as a new pharmacological tool to treat neuropathic pain and the related negative affective states. Graphical Abstract Palmitoylethanolamide: a new pharmacological tool to treat neuropathic pain and the related negative affective states.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- F Guida
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Section of Pharmacology L. Donatelli, Second University of Naples, 80138, Naples, Italy
| | - L Luongo
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Section of Pharmacology L. Donatelli, Second University of Naples, 80138, Naples, Italy
| | - F Marmo
- Department of Neuroscience, Laboratory of Molecular and Translational Psychiatry, University School of Medicine "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - R Romano
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Section of Pharmacology L. Donatelli, Second University of Naples, 80138, Naples, Italy
| | - M Iannotta
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Section of Pharmacology L. Donatelli, Second University of Naples, 80138, Naples, Italy
| | - F Napolitano
- Behavioural Neuroscience Laboratory, CEINGE - Biotecnologie Avanzate, Via Comunale Margherita 482, 80145, Naples, Italy
| | - C Belardo
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Section of Pharmacology L. Donatelli, Second University of Naples, 80138, Naples, Italy
| | - I Marabese
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Section of Pharmacology L. Donatelli, Second University of Naples, 80138, Naples, Italy
| | - A D'Aniello
- Stazione Zoologica "Anton Dohrn", Naples, Italy
| | - D De Gregorio
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Section of Pharmacology L. Donatelli, Second University of Naples, 80138, Naples, Italy
| | - F Rossi
- Department of Women, Child and General and Specialistic Surgery, Second University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - F Piscitelli
- Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Via Campi Flegrei 34, 80078, Pozzuoli, NA, Italy
| | - R Lattanzi
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - A de Bartolomeis
- Department of Neuroscience, Laboratory of Molecular and Translational Psychiatry, University School of Medicine "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - A Usiello
- Behavioural Neuroscience Laboratory, CEINGE - Biotecnologie Avanzate, Via Comunale Margherita 482, 80145, Naples, Italy
| | - V Di Marzo
- Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Via Campi Flegrei 34, 80078, Pozzuoli, NA, Italy
| | - V de Novellis
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Section of Pharmacology L. Donatelli, Second University of Naples, 80138, Naples, Italy
| | - S Maione
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Section of Pharmacology L. Donatelli, Second University of Naples, 80138, Naples, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|